A common, widespread misconception about drug use among adolescents is the belief that “everybody is doing it.” Research shows the majority of youth are not using drugs. However, the constant barrage of media images create harmful, pressuring perceptions that may be difficult to counteract. Mentor started the Living the Example campaign to combat these messages in a fun, creative way, while simultaneously promoting the active, healthy, and positive lifestyles of young people who may not otherwise receive the attention they deserve.
The contest is open to all U.S. high school students aged 13 to 19. To enter, students must submit a 60-second video explaining how they set a positive example for their peers by doing whatever their passion may be. Sports, cooking, artwork, volunteering – there is no limit except their imagination. Entries may be submitted up until Nov. 21. Winners are determined by the number of votes received for their video by daily visitors to our website, www.livingtheexample.org.
The grand prize winner will receive a $500 H&M gift card and a trip to Los Angeles including a tour of the YouTube Space in La Playa Vista; flight and hotel accommodations for a winner and a chaperone are included in the prize. Second place winners will receive a $250 H&M gift card and a Google Chromecast. Third place winners will receive a $150 H&M gift card and an Anker Portable Speaker.
2015 contest winner, Carly Johnson, won a trip for her and a chaperone to Washington, along with a $500 shopping spree at H&M. She also participated in a Shattering the Myths youth rally held in Baltimore, Maryland, aimed at educating youth on the truth about substance abuse.
Carly Johnson’s winning video for the 2015 Living The Example Video Contest.
Mentor also recently launched the Living the Example online platform. It celebrates the positive lifestyles of youth by highlighting their achievements and is a platform for teenagers to engage with each other across the U.S. and the world. Young people can use this site to obtain resources, advice, and to establish valuable connections with their peers and other subject matter experts. All video entries may be found here as well.
Enjoy your visit to www.livingtheexample.org
by Sidney Randolph