Welcome to Stories of Idealists, a collection of micro-stories written and submitted by YOU, inspired by individuals who are changing the world and their industries. These stories capture moments where real-life idealists—dreamers and change-makers—are challenging the status quo and shaping a better future. Join us as we celebrate the courage, resilience, and vision of those who refuse to accept the world as it is and instead choose to shape it into something greater.

Idealist: A person who envisions or portrays things as they could or should be, rather than as they currently are.

Our society is populated by Idealists—individuals who intentionally choose to live according to the realities they aspire to create. They hold steadfast to the belief that they can affect meaningful change through their actions and presence.

Consider an individual who embodies the qualities of an Idealist. This could be an activist, for example, Malala Yousafzai, a musician such as Chappell Roan, an athlete like Simone Biles, or a scientist as seen in Jane Goodall. Your Idealist can be from current or past times, like Bruce Lee or Frida Kahlo.

Reflect on a moment when they made a change that impacted their industry and/or the world around them, or imagine a scenario in which your Idealist takes a stand on an issue they care deeply about. Write a one-page script exploring this pivotal moment, showcasing their commitment to their values and how they engage with the situation.

● The script must be 1 page, following standard screenplay formatting conventions (12 pt. Courier font, 1-inch margins, proper spacing for action, dialogue, and scene headings). 

● Use present tense and active voice.

● Include your name at the top of the page.

Never written a script before? No problem, check out
Celtx’s Beginner’s Guide to Screenplay Formatting.

● Character: Clearly establish your Idealist in the first few lines. Who are they? What makes them unique? 

● Setting: Provide a clear location and time of day
(e.g., “EXT. CITY ROOFTOP – NIGHT”). 

● Conflict/Challenge: Introduce a challenge, obstacle, or internal struggle the hero must face. 

● Action/Choice: Show how the hero responds to the challenge, through physical action, emotional growth, or a critical decision.

● Resolution: Conclude with a strong moment that either resolves or deepens the hero’s journey.

● Keep descriptions concise but vivid—each line should push the story forward.

● Use dynamic verbs and avoid unnecessary exposition. 

● Dialogue should be purposeful and reflect character personality. 

● Show, don’t tell—use action and subtext rather than direct explanations.

1. Confirm that your name is included on the script.

2. Ensure that material is suitable for ages under 18; profanity, explicit content, and graphic violence will not be featured.

3. Save your script as a PDF, named after the character.

4. Email your script to contact@TheIdealistProject.com by 11:59 PM on Sunday for consideration to be featured the following week.

Please note: Only one script may be submitted by each person each week, and only one to two scripts will be selected each week.