Young people urged to become film makers for Smoke Storm Oscars
February 25th, 2013
Following the success of Argo, Les Miserables and Life of Pi at last night’s Academy Awards, young people, schools and youth groups in Suffolk are being urged to pick up their video cameras and test their own film making skills as a new Oscars ceremony comes to town.
The Smoke Storm Oscars 2013 is for young people aged 13-15, to create a short film (no longer than five minutes) on the dangers of smoking. It is organised by us in association with the Suffolk Tobacco Control Alliance to educate young people and help prevent them from taking up the habit.
Budding film makers are encouraged to work in small groups to create an informative film. The competition is open to all schools and youth groups throughout Suffolk and entries will also be welcomed from individuals.
Entries are now open and the closing date for submitted films is Friday 24th May 2013. The winners will be announced at a glamorous red carpet event which will take place on Thursday 4th July at Wherstead Park.
Speaking at the launch of the Smoke Storm Oscars, Councillor Graham Newman, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, Suffolk County Council said: “The Smoke Storm Oscars are an opportunity for people to participate in a creative, educational and fun campaign to understand the health dangers of smoking. We are really looking forward to seeing some fantastic films.”
Elspeth Gibson, chair of the Suffolk Tobacco Control Alliance, and part of the judging panel, said: “Recognising that the majority of adult smokers start at a young age, we wanted to inspire teenagers from across the county to think carefully about the effects of different types of tobacco use and what it means to them, in the hope that participating in the project will prevent them from smoking.”
As part of the project, we will be offering participating schools and youth groups the opportunity to speak to our dedicated stop smoking advisors to learn more about the health benefits of remaining smoke free.
Laura Beale, Live Well Suffolk’s Youth Project co-ordinator said: “We are really excited by this initiative and we know that there are a lot of talented young filmmakers throughout the county. We are working closely with all schools to raise awareness of this project and we are hoping to encourage as many people as possible to enter. We would also encourage anyone who is thinking of entering or would like more information about the awards to get in touch.”
The Suffolk Tobacco Control Alliance is a partnership of local organisations including Suffolk Smoke Free Alliance, Live Well Suffolk and NHS Suffolk.
For more information about the Smoke Storm Oscars please click here or alternatively please email laura.beale@livewellsuffolk.org.uk
