2026 My Story Matters LISTEN Scholarship
Offered by PLUS ME Project
About this scholarship
The 2026 My Story Matters LISTEN Scholarship gives $1,000 to each selected Los Angeles County high-school student. Applicants in grades 9–12 write a 750–1,500 word personal narrative in their own voice. The story must address the characters and settings that shaped the applicant, struggles and accomplishments, lessons learned, and plans for the future. This is not merely an essay contest: recipients commit to reading their submitted stories before a live audience at the LISTEN event on November 5, 2026, at Marlborough School in Los Angeles. PLUS ME Project provides coaching before the event so selected students know what to expect on stage. Applicants may also attend the optional LISTEN Link-Up on October 10 at the sponsor’s Highland Park storytelling center, but attendance has no effect on selection. The official sponsor page links directly to the current Monday.com application and confirms that applications opened August 3. Eligible students must currently attend any high school in Los Angeles County and be willing to participate in the live program if chosen. Submit the complete application by 11:59 p.m. PDT on September 25, 2026.
Eligibility
- Be a student in grade 9, 10, 11, or 12
- Be currently enrolled at a high school in Los Angeles County
- Write an original 750–1,500 word personal narrative in the applicant’s own voice
- Address the required characters, settings, struggles, accomplishments, lessons, and future plans
- Be willing, if selected, to share the submitted story with a live audience in Los Angeles
- Complete the online application by September 25, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. PDT