Call for Student Activist Art
UpliftEd Conference | Wellington | 30–31 October 2025
Are you a rangatahi with something to say about education in Aotearoa right now? We want YOUR voice to be seen and heard.
The Student Activist Art Exhibition at the UpliftEd Conference will showcase the power, passion, and perspectives of young people - perspectives too often left out of the conversations where decisions are being made.
We’re calling on young people across Aotearoa to submit artworks that speak back to the education system. This is your chance to share your whakaaro, frustrations, hopes, and dreams through creativity.
Themes you might explore:
Ākonga Activists: What does real learning look and feel like for you? • Rangatahi Rebels: What do you want to challenge or disrupt in education?
Students Speak Back: What needs to change so schools serve young people better?
Silver Linings: What’s worth celebrating in your learning journey? • The Purpose of School: What do YOU think school is really for?
What can you submit?
Visual art (paintings, drawings, photography, digital works)
Posters or protest-style graphics
Mixed media or sculpture
Short video or digital storytelling pieces
Details:
Deadline for submissions: Friday 10 October 2025
Who can enter: Mokopuna and rangatahi up to 25 years of age, attending any format of learning (early years, primary, secondary, tertiary, formal, mainstream, kura kaupapa, alternative, home-schooled and/or other).
Where your work will be shown: The UpliftEd Conference in Wellington, 30–31 October, alongside educators, researchers, and policymakers.
Why get involved?
Your artwork will give voice to the issues that matter most to you and your peers. It will be seen by teachers, leaders, MPs, and international education thinkers – people who need to hear from you.
To submit your work or ask questions, email: hello@aec.org.nz Please include your name, age, school (if applicable), a short description of your piece, and any display requirements.