AACI Launches 2026 “Growing Up in America” Contest

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For over 30 years, the Growing Up in America (GUA) contest has served as a vital creative outlet for Bay Area youth to explore and celebrate their cultural identities. Originally known as “Growing Up Asian in America,” the program continues its long-standing tradition in 2026, inviting Kindergarten through 12th-grade students to share their unique perspectives through art, essays, and video.

Hosted by Asian Americans for Community Involvement (AACI) in partnership with NBC Bay Area, the contest provides a platform for young people to discuss their dreams, cultural heritage, and the complex challenges they face growing up in one of the nation’s most diverse regions.

2026 Theme: “Growing Healthy Connections”

This year’s theme, “Growing Healthy Connections,” focuses on the essential role relationships play in a student’s life—whether at home, school, or within the broader community. Participants are encouraged to reflect on what makes a relationship safe, supportive, and respectful.

The prompt extends beyond external relationships, asking students to consider their connection with themselves. According to the contest guidelines, treating oneself with respect and accepting what makes one unique are the foundations for building strong, healthy bonds with others. Students may explore how these connections help build bridges across differences such as culture, race, religion, and gender identity.

Prizes and Recognition

The contest offers significant rewards for student creativity:

• One $1,000 Lance Lew Grand Prize winner will be selected.
• Nine $500 “Best in Class” winners will be named.
• Ten honorable mentions will also be recognized.

Beyond the monetary awards, all winners will have their work showcased on the AACI website, with select entries receiving the opportunity to be featured on NBC Bay Area.

How to Participate

The contest is open to students who live in or attend school within the nine Bay Area counties: Santa Clara, San Francisco, Contra Costa, Marin, Sonoma, Solano, Napa, Alameda, or San Mateo.

Key Dates for the 2026 Contest:

• March 1: Online submissions officially open.
• March 15: Submission deadline.
• Early May: Winners will be announced.

Interested students and educators can access the online entry form and learn more about the prompt by visiting aaci.org/gua. For any questions, email gua@aaci.org. 

About the Organizers

Founded in 1973, AACI is a cornerstone organization in Santa Clara County, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of marginalized and ethnic communities. Through programs ranging from primary healthcare and behavioral health to youth services and community advocacy, AACI works to strengthen the resilience and safety of the Bay Area’s diverse population.

This text was edited with the assistance of an AI tool and has been reviewed and edited for accuracy and clarity by India Currents.