Twelve youths who demonstrated exceptional creativity in raising awareness for environmental sustainability clinched awards at the 2021 Sus Ads Video Challenge Awards Ceremony last week. Judged on their content, originality, creativity and technical execution, a total of eight awards were given out at the Awards Ceremony graced by Mr Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman and Minister of State for Communications and Information & National Development, and Mr Desmond Tan, Minister of State for Home Affairs & Sustainability and the Environment.
Organised by REACH in collaboration with MM2 Entertainment and AsiaOne, the inaugural Sus Ads Video Challenge called upon youths to create an original short video (60 seconds or less) on what they currently do or can do to support sustainability, to encourage others to take action. The Challenge saw a total of 80 entries from 63 individuals and 17 teams, which centred on water and food security, and illustrated how simple lifestyle changes can make a difference in saving the planet.
The awards ceremony also saw a dialogue session providing an opportunity for youths to share their views on sustainability issues. Panellists include REACH Chairman and Minister of State Tan Kiat How; Minister of State Desmond
Tan; filmmaker and actor-host Annette Lee; and environmentalist and digital creator Woo Qiyun. The discussion expounded on Singapore’s sustainability efforts as part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030, and how youths can play a larger role in the sustainability movement.
About The Winners
Amongst the winners in the Student Category is Livia Fin, an illustration design and animation student from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Coming in first place, she used 3D modelling and animation to showcase how seemingly harmless daily activities can contribute to carbon emissions. Titled ‘Consumption and Climate Change’, her video calls upon Singaporeans to practise mindful consumption habits.
In the same category, Temasek Polytechnic student Muhammad Danish Fikri Bin Mohamed Fadil’s “Save Water, Save Money” won the hearts of the audience. The 60-second video, which combined elements of horror and humour, highlighted how the simple act of turning off the tap can help to save water.
"I was inspired by a television advertisement which conveyed the message of saving water in a creative way. Through my video, I hope to bring across the message that everyone has to play a part in being sustainable. There is no need to buy certain items to be sustainable. Instead, we can reflect on our daily habits and incorporate simple actions to save resources."
In the Open Category, youths tackled a wide range of sustainability issues, including energy conservation, waste reduction and recycling. “Pass Me Forward” imagines a letter from a dress to illustrate how fashion can be sustainable, while “Learning Sustainability with Nasir” shows how our sustainable habits can help save the environment.
"I think it is great that Singapore has been pushing forward its sustainability efforts and appreciate that they are listening to youths and the public for ideas on how to move forward with these efforts. Not only that, it is heartening that the Singapore Green Plan 2030 helps provide actionable steps to combat climate change, not only for individuals but also for corporations."
--- Tan Jing Ren, “The Interview”, Open Category, 2nd place winner ---
However, it was Leo Ching Ling’s “Sound of Sustainability” that won first place in the Open Category. In a creative take on sustainability, the 20-year-old Ngee Ann Polytechnic graduate used sound with aesthetically pleasing visuals to demonstrate the simple actions one can take to protect the earth.
"Singapore is making commendable efforts by using resources to raise awareness and encourage people to contribute to a greener city. I am grateful for platforms such as the Sus Ads Video Challenge where one can showcase creativity and establish a meaningful point, too."
--- Leo Ching Ling ---
"We are impressed by the youths’ effort and creativity in producing these videos... I am heartened to see that many young Singaporeans are aware of the responsibility they each have in protecting the environment. By showcasing innovative yet pragmatic ways to make sustainability part of their daily lives, our youths have displayed a sense of ownership towards creating a greener and more sustainable Singapore. I hope that they will continue to champion sustainability in their communities."
--- Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman, one of the Challenge panel judges ---
The videos from all eight winners will be aired at Cathay Cineplexes island wide. They can also be found online at www.asiaone.com/susads.
