Valley Stream South High School sophomore Ariel Yeni was selected as a first place winner in the Nassau County’s Third Annual PSA Contest for his video on the topic of depression. Students were asked to focus their entries on issues commonly faced by young adults while delivering messages of hope.
Ariel created his PSA in his Video Technology Class, an elective course led by South High School teacher and Valley Stream Mayor Ed Fare during the fall semester. The video, titled, “The Right Decision,” is 30 seconds long and underscores the struggles associated with depression while bringing about awareness and sharing helpful resources.
This opportunity, open to all Nassau County high school students, was held in recognition of Red Ribbon Week with an emphasis on positive alternatives to risky behaviors. Hosted by Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and coordinated by his wife Linda Mangano, the contest featured four categories that included depression as well as bullying, stigma and destructive decisions. A winner was selected in each area.
Members of Mr. Fare’s classes have entered this competition since its inception, with South students earning second and third place awards as well as honorable mentions in previous years.
Ariel was formally recognized at an awards ceremony held on April 20 at the Ceremonial Chambers of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola. This event, sponsored in part by Suffolk County National Bank, was attended by all involved officials and featured Matilda Cuomo, mother of Governor Andrew Cuomo, as the guest speaker.
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