News Release

WARSAW — The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club has announced the winners of its 2025 Essay Contest, themed “How Optimism Has Paved My Way to Success.”

This year’s contest inspired young writers to reflect on the power of positive thinking and share their personal stories of resilience, achievement and hope.

The club is recognizing the following winners:

First place: Jillian Culp. 
Jillian’s essay spoke to the judges with its narrative of overcoming challenges and embracing optimism as a guiding force. She will receive a $300 prize and a first-place medal.

Second place: Emilia Samaranayake
. Emilia’s essay illustrated how optimism has shaped her journey toward achieving her goals. Her story earned her a $150 prize and a second-place medal.

Third place: Teagan Alley. 
Teagan’s reflection on the role of optimism in everyday life resonated with the judges. She will receive a $50 prize and a third-place medal.

The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club is grateful to all the winners and participants for their contributions.

The annual essay contest is open to aspiring writers aged 19 and younger and encourages young people to explore the impact of optimism in their lives. 
The contest provides a platform for young writers to showcase their writing skills and unique perspectives; compete for the chance to advance to regional competitions; and inspire others with their stories of optimism and resilience.

The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club is a local chapter of Optimist International, a global organization dedicated to empowering youth and helping them reach their full potential. Through programs like the essay contest, the club aims to foster positivity, leadership and personal growth among young people in the community.

If you’re a young writer with a story to tell, stay tuned for updates on the 2026 essay contest theme and submission details. For more information about the essay contest next year or the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club, contact Shari Benyousky at [email protected] or 574-265-6782.