Prize: 1st place will receive $500 cash prize, a certificate and a "No More Landmines" t-shirt designed by Paul McCartney.

The Contest:

What is a peacekeeper, peacemaker?

Why does it matter that we have peacekeepers and peacemakers in our communities? You have an opportunity to explore these ideas in your submission for the Mark R. Isfeld Essay Contest.

Mark Isfeld is a great example of a heroic Canadian peacemaker. Mark was a courageous Canadian who worked to clear landmines in war-torn countries. Tragically, while on a peacekeeping mission in Croatia in 1994, Mark lost his life to a landmine. He sacrificed his life in the pursuit of peace.

Mark is just one example. Peacemakers exist throughout Canada, in our cities, towns and local communities. You may have peacekeepers living with you in your home.

In honour of Mark, the Canadian Landmine Foundation wants YOU to submit an essay and tell us what characterizes a peacemaker?

To help you in this process, you can learn about individuals in your community or prominent Canadians that have embodied peacemaking and tell us about them. What have they done to bring about peace to their community, the country and the world? Why do you admire them?

By doing this, YOU will have an opportunity to learn about positive role models that are dedicated to achieving a better world. Building strong commitments to peace internationally must start with an individual's dedication to peace at home.

Eligibility and Conditions: Open to all Canadian residents between the ages of 14 and 18. Essays may be submitted in either official language. Entries must be in by January 31, 2010; the winner will be announced in the spring/summer 2010.