“An Evening of Light” Essay Contest

Let your Words be a Ripple of Light

CANDLES founder and Holocaust survivor Eva Kor lived by four life lessons.  Select one lesson and write an essay that explains how this lesson applies to your life.  (500-1000 Words) 

1. Never, ever give up.  
2. Prevent prejudice by judging people only on their actions and the content of their character. 
3. Forgive your worst enemy–it will heal your soul and set you free.  
4. Each of us has a wonderful mind that can help repair the world.  Be the change you want to see.  

• Students should include a short biography about themselves at the top of the page.   Please include:  Name, school, grade, age, and a sentence or two about their interest in this contest.  
• Teacher resources: PDF  Google Slide
• This contest is open to all high school students.  Winners must be able to provide their own transportation to and from the event.  The event will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum
• Essays must be submitted on or before Friday, September 5, 2025 at 5 PM EST.
• All submissions must be a PDF and UPLOADED using this form: 
  • 2025 Essay Form

CANDLES will select up to two winners.  Each winner will receive two tickets for the “Evening of Light” dinner: one ticket for the student and one for a teacher, parent, or adult to accompany the winner.   (The winners may also purchase additional tickets.)  Winners will also receive a CANDLES shirt, a certificate, and will be announced at the dinner. 

6:30 PM – Cocktails   7:00 PM – Dinner  

8:00 PM- A special screening of the critically acclaimed short film, The Ice Cream Man, followed by a special conversation with actor Noah Emmerich

For more information on Eva Kor, CANDLES, or the event, go to: www.candlesholocaustmuseum.org

Essays will be evaluated using the following criteria and rubric: 

1. Essays should include a unique and creative title.  
2. Essays must connect a personal experience to Eva’s lessons and story.  
3. Essays should be written to the best of the student’s ability. Revisions based on teacher or peer feedback should be incorporated when possible to showcase the student’s best work. 

Rubric