South Carolina Speaks: Voices Against Violence Youth Media Challenge

A Student Storytelling Challenge on Healthy Relationships and Awareness

OVERVIEW

South Carolina Speaks: Voices Against Violence Youth Media Challenge invites middle and high school students enrolled in school news programs, CTE media courses, journalism clubs, or youth organizations to create original short videos (1–3 minutes) exploring issues connected to domestic and dating violence.

The goal is to:

  • Promote understanding of healthy and unhealthy relationship dynamics.
  • Empower students to use media as a tool for advocacy and awareness.
  • Encourage conversations between students, educators, and counselors that lead to safer, more supportive school environments.

Winning entries will be featured on SCETV’s digital and broadcast platforms in February—Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

SUBMIT ENTRY

SAFETY NOTE: Because of the sensitive nature of this topic, it’s recommended that each participating school ensure counselor support for all students involved. The challenge encourages storytelling for awareness, not disclosure of personal trauma.

PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES

Teams must include a school counselor or trusted adult advisor.

Videos should be 1–3 minutes long and submitted using the provided form by Wednesday, February 11 at 11:59pm.

Original student work only (no copyrighted music, images, or footage). Other acceptable media formats include podcasts, animated infographics, short-form audio storytelling, and multimedia poetry.

Submissions will be evaluated by a review panel of educators, advocates, and media professionals.

One video for each prompt category will be selected for feature release.

No Individual Submissions

EVALUATION CRITERIA

CriteriaPoint Value

Creativity & Impact:

Does the video convey a strong, original message?

  • Is the story compelling, creative, and clearly student-driven?
  • Does the narrative or concept stand out in its approach or perspective?
  • Does the message feel purposeful and intentional rather than generic?
25

Accuracy & Sensitivity:

Are topics handled responsibly and respectfully?

  • Is the story informed by accurate, fact-based information?
  • Are credible sources reflected in the framing or messaging (explicitly or implicitly)?
  • Does the content avoid sensationalism, victim-blaming, or harmful stereotypes?
  • Is language and imagery appropriate for a public audience and mindful of survivors?
25

Technical Quality:

Is the video clear, well-edited, and engaging?

  • Is audio clear and visuals easy to follow?
  • Does editing support the story’s message and pacing?
  • Are production choices appropriate for the intended audience and platform?
20

Collaboration and Guidance:

Is there evidence of educator and counselor/advisor involvement?

  • Did an educator supervise and support the project throughout its development?
  • Was a school counselor or student support professional consulted to help ensure accuracy, care, and student wellbeing?
  • Does the submission reflect intentional adult guidance while preserving student voice?
  • Were student safety and emotional wellbeing considered during the planning and production process?
15

Call to Action:

Does the story inspire awareness, empathy, or change?

  • Does the video encourage reflection, help-seeking, prevention, or healthier relationships?
  • Is the call to action age-appropriate and aligned with the topic?
  • Does the ending leave the audience with something meaningful to consider or do?
15

 

PROMPTS

Mental Health Focus 

“Love Should Lift You” 
Celebrate examples of healthy relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. How do respect, boundaries, and communication build emotional wellbeing?

“It’s Okay to Ask for Help” 
Highlight the role of friends, counselors, or mentors when someone is struggling in a relationship. What does a supportive friend or school community look like?
 

Policy Focus

“Policy and Protection” 
Investigate what laws, policies, or school programs are in place to protect teens from dating violence. How can students advocate for stronger awareness and prevention policies?

“The Breakdown” 
Create a quick explainer video of a local, state, or national law related to dating violence (e.g., protective orders for minors, general consent laws).
 

General Option

“Through Our Eyes” 
Show how family conflict or domestic violence impacts children and teens who witness it. What emotions, fears, or misunderstandings might arise? How can communities support young people in these situations?

“Real vs. Reel Love” 
Compare portrayals of teen relationships in TV/film/social media to what healthy relationships actually require.

“The Algorithm of Love” 
Show how social media can amplify jealousy, comparison, or conflict—and how to manage it in healthy ways.

 

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) are participating in a yearlong partnership with the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) on an initiative called South Carolina Speaks: Focus on Domestic Violence. SCETV and SCCADVASA will work together to raise awareness and educate the public over the next year through multiplatform coverage.

Learn More