Youth Animal Advocates Participate in Essay Contest

In the 2024 “A Voice for Animals” contest, participants spotlighted diverse efforts to address human-caused suffering and the decline of species across the globe. From safeguarding the endangered golden coin turtle in Hong Kong to raising awareness about the mental health of companion animals, these young advocates took a strong stand in education and community engagement to drive meaningful change.

The annual contest, open to high school students aged 14 to 18, encourages participants to submit essays, videos, or photo essays that propose solutions to mitigate animal suffering and protect endangered species. Sponsored by the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) and the Humane Education Network, with additional Support from the Palo Alto Humane Society, the contest offers cash prizes for winning submissions that demonstrate originality, creativity, and impactful solutions. This year, out of more than 200 submissions, nineteen entries received honors.

“AWI is impressed by the imagination and resourcefulness of these young advocates to improve the lives of animals where they live,” said Regina Terlau, AWI’s humane education program coordinator and co-manager of the contest.

The first-place winners included:

• Alison Cheng of Los Altos, California, for her video “Young Birders for Our Habitats.” Cheng shared how birdwatching can foster environmental stewardship, inspiring her to co-found the Santa Clara Valley Young Birders Club to conserve rapidly declining bird populations.
• V’Jae Brown of Killeen, Texas, for the photo essay “Go Green KISD,” which documented efforts to educate students about sustainability and composting, helping protect red fox habitats impacted by urbanization.
• Daniel Athey of West Chester, Pennsylvania, for the essay “Rescue 911 for Our Shelter Animals.” Athey’s work during the COVID-19 pandemic involved providing food, supplies, and Support for a local animal shelter while raising awareness for adoption.
• Krrisha Patel of Secaucus, New Jersey, for the essay “Preservation of Endangered Sea Turtles,” highlighting her advocacy and educational efforts to protect sea turtles threatened by marine Pollution and habitat loss.
• Zai Lee of Seoul, South Korea, for the essay “Ending Rhino Poaching for Generations to Come,” offering solutions to combat illegal rhino horn trade through law enforcement partnerships, drone surveillance, and economic incentives for local communities.
• Sabrina Chen of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, for the essay “Endangered Beauty,” which explored the challenges faced by the yellow-crested cockatoo and detailed her efforts to raise awareness and sponsor Conservation efforts.

These young voices are making a significant difference, leveraging both innovative and hands-on approaches to create a future where animals can thrive. The contest serves as a platform for students to not only showcase their passion for animal welfare but also to inspire others to join in the fight for the protection of vulnerable species.

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