What is Speak Up?
Speak Up is a scholarship program created to empower high school seniors to use their voice, creativity, and personal story to promote mental health awareness and emotional well-being.
Through written expression and creative performance, students are invited to share how their experiences have shaped them and how they hope to create positive change in the future.
Our mission is to support students who are courageous enough to speak up, be seen, and use their story to inspire others.
Scholarship Details
Award Amount
One $1,500 scholarships awarded annually.
Funds may be used for:
- Tuition
- Educational expenses
- Training or certification programs
Eligible Schools
Hamilton Southeastern High School (HSE)
Fishers High School (FHS)
Who Can Apply
Graduating seniors planning to attend college, trade school, or a certification program.
Deadline: April 15, 2026
What You’ll Submit
Students must complete two parts to apply. Content must be original.
Written Essay
(400–800 words)
Prompt:
Describe how your voice, creativity, or personal story has impacted your mental health or the mental health of others.
How will you continue using your voice to create positive change in the future?
Creative Video Submission
(2–3 minutes)
Topic: How mental health, self-expression, or personal growth has shaped who you are today.
Format examples:
- Spoken word poetry
- Acting monologue
- Song or instrumental performance
- Dance
- Short speech
- Creative storytelling
Important Dates
- Applications Open: April 1, 2026
- Deadline: May 15, 2026
- Review Period: May 16 – May 21
- Announcement: June 1, 2026
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is for students who:
- Have a story to share
- Value mental health and emotional well-being
- Enjoy creative expression
- Want to make a positive impact
- Believe that their voice matters
Talent level is not the focus, authenticity and message matter most.
How Applications Are Reviewed
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Authenticity and personal story
- Connection to mental health
- Creativity and expression
- Impact and effort
A small review committee made up of mental health professionals will select the recipients.
About the Speak Up Program
Speak Up Scholars was created by Talk Indy Counseling to support student mental health and encourage young people to use their voice through creativity and storytelling.
We believe that:
- Mental health matters
- Stories create connection
- Creativity builds confidence
- Every voice deserves to be heard