The National Chronic Disease Unit has launched a social media competition encouraging people to promote safe sex, with cash prizes and event tickets up for grabs.
The ‘Protect your vibe: Safe sex, smart choices’ challenge is open to anyone aged 16 and older and aims to use creative social media content to promote positive health messages.
Participants are asked to produce short reels highlighting topics including condom use and protection, respect and consent and making responsible choices while having fun.
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As the island prepares for this year’s Anguilla Summer Festival, reels can also feature enjoying events without regrets, and the risks linked to alcohol, drugs and risky sexual behaviour.
April Wilkinson-Richardson, programme officer for sexual and reproductive health and HIV/AIDS at the unit, said the initiative was designed to encourage informed choices while celebrating.
“While carnival is a time of celebration, culture and enjoyment, it is also important that individuals make informed decisions that protect their health and wellbeing,” she said.
“This challenge provides a creative platform for the public to promote healthy behaviours while showcasing their talent and love for carnival.”
The competition launched on 10 July and entries will be accepted until 24 July. Members of the public will then vote for their favourite submissions between 25 and 31 July, with winners announced on 1 August.
The first-place winner will receive EC$600, a ticket to Eyes Wide Shut and a certificate.
Second prize is $250, a ticket to Bandclash and a certificate, while third prize includes $150, a ticket to the Senior Calypso Monarch Competition and a certificate.
The National Chronic Disease Unit said all entries must meet the competition requirements and be submitted before the closing deadline to be eligible.
Full eligibility criteria, submission guidelines and scoring details are available on the unit’s Facebook page and Instagram account or from Wilkinson-Richardson via email at april.richardson@gov.ai
