High school journalists: Here's your chance to be published in the Sun-Times

As a Chicago native, I always have a story to tell.

In the Sun-Times, as a Chicago's Next Voices columnist, I've told the story of how life hacks have changed my life and how CPS career training is a gift for underserved communities.

It's been a surreal opportunity to share my vision for the city's future in the Sun-Times. When I was a child, my mom brought newspapers home so my sister and I could read the comics. I eventually found myself flipping through the pages, reading stories by professional journalists who reported topics from news stories to sports.

Then, I envisioned seeing my byline in print. I knew that one day I'd hold Sunday's paper in my hand and see the words "By Lashaunta Moore."

When I was chosen as one of the Chicago's Next Voices columnists, I knew my "one day" had arrived.

Contests like the one to find Chicago's Next Voices offer opportunities and transformative experiences. They provide a platform for our voices to be heard.

Seeking high school voices

Now, the Sun-Times is looking for high school students to share their perspectives and have a chance to become guest columnists.

With the theme "Looking Ahead," students 13 to 18 years old are invited to submit an original, never-published 525- to 600-word writing sample by Dec. 31. Students under 18 must submit a parental consent form to enter. Topics can cover anything, from personal goals to politics.

Be a voice of the future. Submit an original piece online to marketing.suntimes.com/chicagovoices.

A panel of Sun-Times staffers will select four entries to feature, and four prizes will be awarded. The prizes include a $250 stipend and the publication of each winner's name and work in the Sun-Times on a date chosen by the Sun-Times over the course of one year.

The list of winners will be published on the Sun-Times' website between Feb. 28 and March 7.