LEAP Storytelling Contest: “Leap of Faith”
Inspired by NPR’s The Moth podcast, this contest invites LEAP graduates to share their personal stories of transformation, resilience, and hope.
Theme: “Leap of Faith”
Graduates, this competition is a chance to share a meaningful chapter of your life, something real you’ve lived through, lost, learned, or gained. It’s your story, told in your voice. Somewhere along the way, if LEAP played a part, let that thread shine through. The goal is to offer guests at the Second Chance Gala a glimpse into the strength and transformation that’s possible when we take a “LEAP” of faith.
Contest Details & Guidelines
**Deadline to Apply: Friday, May 30, 2025
Time Limit: 4 minutes
Stay on Theme: Interpret “Leap of Faith” in your own way, but your story should connect to LEAP and its impact.
Authenticity & Emotion: Your story should be true, personal, meaningful and told in your voice.
No Notes or Scripts: This is a live storytelling event, so practice and make it natural.
Story Structure: Every great story has a beginning, middle, and end. Engage the audience with a strong opening, a moment of change, and a powerful takeaway.
Apply Here
Contest Format
Round 1: Friday, June 6, 2025, 6 PM. Hybrid, in person and virtual. Participants share their stories in front of a panel of judges, including celebrity panelists. A select group will move on to Round 2.
Round 2: Friday, June 20th, 6PM. In person. Finalists refine and deliver their stories again, incorporating any feedback.
Grand Prize: $250 + you get to perform your piece at the Second Chance Gala in September!
Resources for Crafting Your Story
Listen & Learn: The Moth is famous for raw, powerful storytelling. Here are some great examples:
- Finding Your Voice – The Moth Link to video
- A Story of Redemption – The Moth Link to video
- Good vs Bad News – The Moth Link to video
Tips for a Powerful Story:
Start strong – Hook the audience in the first few sentences.
Focus on a moment – A single event or realization makes a bigger impact than a whole life story.
Show, don’t just tell – Use details, emotions, and dialogue to bring the story to life.
End with impact – Leave the audience with a takeaway or reflection.