Edward Y Lee + #AAPIStrong Storytelling Contest Launch (AKA #myinspirasian + #apalegacy)

Monday, June 22, 2015


The above video was created for The Heritage Series by Edward Young Lee, Tiger Souvannakoumane, and Samantha Cheng, and was commissioned by McDonalds.

This sounds like a great project on a lot of different levels, but why listen to me? Listen to someone who knows like filmaker and activist Edward Y Lee:

This Immigrant Heritage Month, I’ve been most compelled to celebrate the first Asian Pacific American immigrants who have pioneered the way for us on many fronts. Their contributions to society have given us the opportunities we have today. And they remind us that we are strongest when we serve others. Now, it’s your turn to share with us your story!

STEP 1: Answer the contest question:

Who’s your Asian Pacific American (APA) hero? Tell us about an APA who has made an impact in your life and how they inspired you to take action in your own community - in aspiring to leave a legacy like they have, talk about how you have been using your gifts and passions to help others.

STEP 2: Create a video up to 3 minutes long (use the hashtag #AAPIStrong in the title).

Watch the “What Legacy Will you Leave?” video above as an example of how to create your own story. Be creative! Your video can be in any format, including music video, animation, public service announcement, or comedy.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Upload the video on Youtube, Vimeo, etc then send the video link to aapistrong@gmail.com with the title “My #AAPIStrong submission - Your Name” by 11:59PM August 15, 2015 (PST).

Late submissions will not be accepted.

All submissions must also include in the email body: Your name, address, school/college (if applicable), and you social media links (if any).

We will shortlist our 10 favorite videos and showcase them for a public voting campaign on social media in August. The top three vote-getters will each receive a cash prize.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The 10 shortlisted videos will be chosen based on three criteria:

Messaging: To what extent does the video answer the prompts in step 1?
Creativity: How does your video communicate the message in a unique and interesting way?
Inspiration: How effective is your video in appealing to the audience?

PRIZES

The 3 videos with the highest votes will win the following cash prizes and gift cards:

First place: US$400
Second place: US$200
Third place: US$100
4th-10th place: Each to receive gift cards of US$50 in value


Check out the Contest Rules and more information @ http://edwardyounglee.com/aapistrong2015