There’s no doubting that the environment is a hot topic in society these days, especially the issue of sustainable living. With so many communities on the brink of making environmental changes in their society, it is important to be as informed as possible, and there’s no age too early to begin doing so.
The South Coast Energy Challenge, an organization based in New Bedford, is inviting local high school students to submit videos showcasing their views on sustainable living. All entries will be showcased at a Film Festival on April 11 at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The winner will receive a $500 prize. $250 will be given to the winner as a cash prize and the remaining money will be donated to a charity of the winner’s choice.
“I used to be a film student and I thought this would be a great way to celebrate local talent as well as bring some awareness to sustainability,” said Jennifer Vargas, Communications Coordinator for South Coast Energy Challenge.
All entries must be a minimum of two minutes and a maximum of seven minutes. The work must be that of the students and no help from video professionals will be accepted. Students can use a variety of different video techniques including animation and live acting.
“I think that creativity for students and the arts are a really important part of growing up,” said Vargas. “I hope to see some great submissions. The South Coast has some really talented people.”
The contest is open to high school students in the Tri-Town, as well as Acushnet, Attleboro, Berkley, Carver, Dartmouth, Dighton, Fairhaven, Fall River, Freetown, Lakeville, Mansfield, Middleboro, New Bedford, North Attleboro, Norton, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Wareham and Westport.
“High school students are at the age that they’re starting to think of elections and what their lives are going to be,” said Vargas. “They are the future of our communities. Sustainability is going to continue to be a huge issue in modern times. We are hoping the contest will indirectly help students become more educated.”
Entry forms must be submitted by February 1. The videos will then be viewed on April 11 at the Green Carpet Screening Event. Film submissions must be submitted by March 1. Contest entry forms can be found online at www.southcoastenergychallenge.org/blog/filmfestival.
By Katy Fitzpatrick
