The Maltz Museum has officially announced the winners of its 2026 Stop the Hate Youth Speak Out and Youth Sing Out Contest, distributing over $100,000 in total prizes, including significant scholarships and school grants. Manasvi Gurajala, an 11th-grade student representing Solon High School, achieved the Grand Prize, securing a $30,000 scholarship along with an additional $4,000 grant designated for her school.
The annual competition, which celebrates powerful essays and poetry from students across Northeast Ohio, recognized several other outstanding individuals for their compelling contributions. Elizabeth Chen, a 12th-grade student from Berea-Midpark High School, was honored as the 1st Runner-Up, receiving a $15,000 scholarship and a $2,000 grant for her institution. Ayesha Faruki, a 12th-grade student attending Mentor High School, earned the 2nd Runner-Up distinction, which includes a $10,000 scholarship and a $1,000 school grant. Liam Hernandez, a senior from Aurora High School, was awarded 3rd Runner-Up, taking home a $5,000 scholarship and a $500 grant for his school.
Beyond the top placements, the contest also acknowledged the impactful work of younger participants. Samipa Patel, a 10th-grade student from Solon High School, and Anna Kellermann, a 7th-grade student from Ballard Brady Middle School, each received $400 for their entries, with Kellermann specifically recognized for her poetry.
A key initiative stemming from the contest is the planned printing and distribution of finalists' works. These pieces will be made available across various Cuyahoga County Public Library locations, ensuring that the students' messages of combating hate and promoting understanding reach a broader community audience. The Maltz Museum’s Stop the Hate contest continues its mission to empower young people to articulate their perspectives on prejudice and advocate for a more inclusive society.