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Are you a young storyteller with a passion for culture and film? Here’s your chance to bring the unique characteristics of the Gobi region to life through scriptwriting! The UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia invites youth from across Mongolia to participate in the scriptwriting competition, “Scripted by the Sands (SBTS).”

Overview

This competition celebrates the vibrant culture, traditions, and heritage of the Gobi, including Umnugovi, Dundgovi, and Dornogovi aimags, and the aimags that contain parts of the Gobi Desert, such as Govisumber, Govi-Altai and Bayankhongor. We’re seeking fresh perspectives from young writers who can creatively express what makes the Gobi unique. Whether it’s a story inspired by legends, community life, or the Gobi landscape, we want your vision!

Submission Requirements

Participants should submit a one-page brief (approx. 300-500 words) outlining their idea for the film script, focusing on the following:

• Plot Summary: Describe the main storyline, including the setting, characters, and main conflict or theme.

• Key message: Explain the cultural message or perspective your story aims to convey, highlighting the Gobi’s unique heritage, values, or community life.

Submissions may be in English or Mongolian and must be original works. Works generated by artificial intelligence will not be accepted.

Eligibility

The competition is open to all youth aged 15-34 in Mongolia. 

Minors must provide written permission from their legal guardian(s) using the sample text. 

"I, the undersigned Mr./Ms. [Full Name], legal representative of [Participant's Full Name], authorize him/her to participate in the competition Scripted by the Sands, running from 3 February to 14 April 2025. I have read and agree to the terms of the rules."

[Signature, City/Aimag/Soum, Date]

No minors’ participation will be accepted without their written permission.

Key dates

• Deadline: 14 April 2025, by midnight (Ulaanbaatar time).

• Evaluation period: 15 April – 19 May 2025

Submission process

Email your submission to n.ganbat@unesco.org with the subject line: SCRIPT_SBTS.

Include the following in your submission:

• Your full name, age, and contact details (email and phone number).

• A one-page brief (300-500 words) outlining your script idea.

Awards

The most compelling submissions will be selected based on creativity, cultural relevance, storytelling potential, and clarity. 

Winners will receive an invitation to an exclusive training program with experienced filmmakers and mentors. This program will guide the winners in developing their ideas into full film scripts, offering invaluable insights into professional scriptwriting.

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated on:

• Originality: How unique and innovative is the story idea?

• Cultural Relevance: Does it authentically represent the Gobi’s heritage and traditions?

• Storytelling Potential: How engaging and compelling is the narrative concept?

• Clarity: Are the plot and message clearly articulated?

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the Gobi’s rich cultural heritage and gain experience in filmmaking. Submit your idea today to share the untold stories of the Mongolian Gobi with the world!