Rules
Eligibility, formats, judging. Rolling — no close date.
Basics
Eligibility
13+ · account required · read free chapters first
Limit
One active entry per category · resubmit if you improve it
Original
Your work only · plagiarism = out
Language
English
Categories
Length
500–3,000 words
Format
Paste, PDF, or DOCX
Requirement
Reference MAYA: Seed Takes Root
Duration
3–15 minutes
Format
Upload (MP4, MOV, WebM) or link
Links
YouTube, Vimeo, or public Drive
30+ word synopsis · https:// link and/or upload
Length
1,000–10,000 words
Format
Paste, PDF, or DOCX
Requirement
Set on Planet Neh; author note (2–3 sentences)
Judging process
Reviews are rolling—there is no fixed announcement date. Winners can be featured on the site as they are selected.
Status stages
Received → Under review → Scored → Result
What we look for
- Essay: depth of engagement, originality, writing quality, understanding of themes.
- Video essay: clarity of thesis, visual creativity, depth of analysis, production quality.
- Short story: craft, consistent worldbuilding, originality, emotional impact.
Submissions
Open — rolling review
Prizes
Tier 01
Draw · signed book
Selected valid entries can win a signed premium MAYA: Seed Takes Root.
Tier 02 · Top 5
Divya · $500 + kit
Kickstarter Benevolent Divya ($190): trilogy, Lorebook, Built Environments, pendant, Hugo Weaving audiobook. Plus cash, Ambassador, studio visit.
Tier 03 · Grand
Founders of Neh · $3,500
Best overall among the five. Character inspired by you, on-screen credit, collaboration with the core team.
By submitting, you grant MAYA the right to feature your work on program channels. Prize fulfillment details are confirmed with winners after selection.