Competitions
Theme: "The Might of Small Deeds"
Arts Early Submission Required
All arts submissions require a two-week early submission via the MyMIST Portal before the tournament.
2D Art
Original two-dimensional artwork based on this year's theme.
Individual3D Art
Original three-dimensional artwork based on this year's theme.
IndividualFashion Design
Design original fashion pieces inspired by this year's theme.
IndividualDigital Art
Create original digital artwork reflecting this year's theme.
IndividualPhotography
Submit a photo capturing an Islamic concept or community moment.
IndividualWriting & Oratory Early Submission Required
Prepared Essay
Submit a written essay on a topic related to this year's theme.
IndividualShort Fiction
Write an original short story inspired by the theme.
IndividualPoetry
Compose an original poem reflecting this year's theme.
IndividualGroup Projects
Max 6 competitors per team. Within-umbrella coalitions allowed.
Short Film
Produce a short film on an assigned theme. Submit early via MyMIST Portal.
Team (max 6)Business Venture
Pitch an original halal-compliant business idea to a panel of judges.
Team (max 6)Science Fair
Present an original science project to a panel of judges.
Team (max 6)Social Media
Create a social media campaign around an Islamic theme or cause.
Team (max 6)Humanitarian Service
Document a meaningful community service initiative tied to this year's theme.
Team (max 6)Culinary Arts Pilot Competition
No early submission required. Bring your finished product to MIST. Max 2 students per school. All ingredients must be Halal. Max $50 budget.
Baking
Create an original cake that reflects this year's theme. Must be baked from scratch. Min 6" diameter, 4" height. Judged on taste, technique, presentation, and theme.
✓ Finished cake
✓ Written statement (500 words max)
✓ Ingredient list & recipe
✓ Progress photos (min 3)
✓ Video (max 5 min, unlisted YouTube)
Chopped
Create an original entrée using required mystery ingredients released 2 weeks before the tournament. Must be halal. Appetizers, desserts & beverages not permitted.
✓ Finished dish (4 portions)
✓ Written statement (500 words max)
✓ Ingredient list & recipe
✓ Progress photos (min 3)
✓ Video (max 5 min, unlisted YouTube)
Sports Pilot Competition
Must also be registered for at least one academic competition (Categories 1–5).
Volleyball
Recreational volleyball following standard rules. Rally scoring to 15, 3 games per match. Matching numbered jerseys required.
✓ Min 6 players, max 12 per team
✓ Matching numbered jerseys required
✓ Coalitions allowed with approval
✓ Coach must be 21+ years old
* All competitions follow official MIST rules. Pilot competitions count toward overall individual awards but are given lower priority than nationally offered competitions. For questions, contact competitionsphilly@getmistified.com