Student film competition encourages sustainability

Student film competition encourages sustainability, compassion and healthy choices

Get busy during the school holidays and be in to win!

School years are a time when young people are defining their beliefs and values, and learning life skills for their futures. During the teen years, young people begin questioning their lifestyle choices, which often includes their diet. For the third year, in time for World Vegetarian Day on October 1st, the NZ Vegetarian Society is running an exciting short film competition for all NZ school students.

The competition is open to any currently enrolled school students (including home schooled) and consists of primary, intermediate and secondary age categories covering animal advocacy, health and nutrition, and protecting the environment.

Sponsored by South Seas Film & Television School, Linda McCartney’s NZ, The Animal Connection, Plug In Pest Free, New Way, Hell Pizza, Kiwiherb, Proper Crisps and Quorn, there are over $5000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

Prizes will be awarded for the best film in each category. A People’s Choice vote will decide the overall winner, and their school will receive a $1000 cash prize.

“The developing years are an important time for young people to learn and make decisions about how they want to live,” says Stephanie Lane, NZ Vegetarian Society National Manager. “This competition gives them a fun way to discover more about their diets and to make informed lifestyle choices.”

Late last year, the World Health Organization announced that processed meat is “carcinogenic to humans,” and that consumption of red meat is “probably carcinogenic to humans.”

“New Zealand’s per capita rate of meat consumption is one of the highest in the world. The rates of heart disease, diabetes and obesity are also among the highest. We want to give our kiwi kids the tools to avoid this future,” says Stephanie Lane.

It is widely noted that a vegetarian/vegan diet has many health benefits, resulting in lower rates of cancer and heart disease, and longer life expectancy. All nutrients found in animal products can be easily found in plant-based options. Vegetarian diets have a substantially lower environmental impact, something which will be explored in the competition.

The NZ Vegetarian Society has been supporting and encouraging vegetarians and vegans since 1943. Its aim is to create a kinder, healthier world through reducing cruelty to animals, improving human health, protecting the environment and preserving world food resources.

The NZ Vegetarian Society is encouraging New Zealanders to choose plant-based options and reduce the amount of animal products consumed, for their own health and for the health of animals and the planet.

An Approved accreditation programme, also run by the NZ Vegetarian Society, accredits products that meet strict vegetarian criteria; free from meat and slaughter by-products, animal testing and any form of cross contamination. Look for the logo on food packaging.

This film competition is a great chance for students to learn about healthy and ethical food choices and investigate the realities behind their diets. It’s time for young Kiwis to showcase their passion and creative talent.

Entries close on 15 th August, so go to www.vegetarian.org.nz for your entry pack now.

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