CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2026 WINNERS
You explored the influences we don’t always see. We’ve seen your stories — and now, we have our winners.
This year, we asked you to take on the challenge of exploring these hidden influences through well-researched ideas and innovative storytelling. With a record 112 submissions, choosing the winners was no easy task.
Congratulations to our winning teams, and well done to everyone who took part.
👇 Discover the winners and watch their entries!
YOUTH CATEGORY WINNERS
YOUNG ADULT CATEGORY WINNERS
2026 VIDEO THEME
It doesn’t always look risky – it can feel normal, even fun, which makes it easy to miss. That’s how influence works.
This year’s theme, Exposing and Preventing the Hidden Influences That Destroy Lives, looks at the real pressures, hype, and blind spots behind drug experimentation. What are we overlooking?
Show where it starts – and how to stop it early, before curiosity turns into consequence.
CATEGORIES
WHAT KIND OF CREATOR ARE YOU?
Before you think about what to film, figure out who you are as a creator. Whatever format you go with, the most powerful thing you can bring is your own story – backed by real research.
Content Creator
You create social media videos that people stop to watch.
Guiding questions:
- What are the real pressures and influences that lead people toward drugs?
- How can your content make someone stop, rethink, and resist drugs?
Reporter
You ask tough questions and break down the facts for your audience.
Guiding questions:
- What’s flying under the radar when it comes to drug abuse?
- Whose voices and stories need to be heard?
Film-maker
You bring stories to life through visuals and emotion.
Guiding questions:
- What does it really feel like to be influenced?
- How can your film capture a moment that stays with someone long after they’ve watched it?
COMPETITION STAGES
1
RESEARCH
Figure out who you are as a creator — then start researching your angle.
2
PRODUCTION
This is where it all comes together. Script it, shoot it, and tell the story.
3
SUBMISSION
Submissions are now closed.
4
EVALUATION
A panel of judges reviews all entries. Sit tight – good things take time.
5
ANNOUNCEMENT OF WINNERS
Winners will be contacted directly by October 2026.
6
AWARD CEREMONY
Awards will be presented on 24 October 2026 at SPH Auditorium.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENT
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PRIZES
The prizes below will be awarded to the winners in each category.
1ST
$3,000
2ND
$2,000
3RD
$1,000
2 MERIT PRIZES
$800
JUDGING CRITERIA
What makes a strong entry? It’s more than just good editing. Judges will be looking at how clearly you tell your story, how well you’ve researched your topic, and how convincingly you bring your message to life.
%
VIDEO
Compelling narrative
- Good storytelling
- Clear video flow
- Clear message
%
WRITTEN
Research, Process, and Understanding
- Synopsis of their video and a thumbnail of it
- What they want their audience to learn from the video
- An elaboration of what they learnt through the process of taking part in this competition and approach
%
VIDEO
Understanding and Factual Accuracy
- Correct representation of scenarios
- Show research into the message
%
BONUS
Realism and Authenticity
- Realistic portrayal of situations and characters
- Authentic dialogue and scenarios
- Believable consequences and outcomes
- Genuine emotional impact