Minnow, age 15, for a non-digital entry

Minnow wrote: “In my illustration, I wanted to build off of the idea on how drug use can effect both children and adults alike, and even though the child in this photo isn’t necessarily taking part in drugs, the effects can be just as harmful as it would be if they were. I chose to convey this idea through the idea of a mother lost in drugs overdosing, nearing death as her child is left helpless not knowing how to help, I chose to show this because I had been through similar situations when I was younger. My parents had been using drugs like this mother when I was younger, and it was so extreme that on numerous occasions I had witnessed overdoses. I wanted to show the helplessness that both I and this child felt when stuck in these situations, because even if a youth themselves isn’t using, being stuck in situations like these, not knowing if your family is alive or even breathing, is just a horrific as those who do.”


The Contest:

We want to change this!

The Edmonton Zone Medical Staff Association’s (EZMSA) Opioid Poisoning Committee (OPC) is holding a competition for youth about the use of opioids, the poisoning death crisis, and how that is affecting students from all areas.

Who can apply? The competition is open to youth aged 14-18 and will include two streams: one Digital Competition and one Non-digital Competition. We want you to submit an original piece as either a video submission or as a written/artwork submission about an aspect of the opioid poisoning crisis that is important to you and your friends.

What are we looking for?

Entries will be judged based on the content, creativity, and overall communication of the idea. We want your work to be attention grabbing and for any information you present to be accurate; no alternative facts, please!

Entries cannot include anything violent, hurtful, or dangerous and must be respectful of the people who use drugs.

This contest is open for Alberta residents.

Win Prizes!

There are two prizes of $1,000 each to be won: one winner will be chosen from each category of the digital and non-digital entries.

All successful entries will be showcased on our social media platforms.

Entries should be submitted to zmsaevents@albertadoctors.org by Friday March 11, 2022 and can also be posted to your own social media. Be sure to use #JustSayKnow when you post.

In your email submission please include the following:

  • Full name and date of birth

  • Contact information

  • Brief statement about how you would like to use the prize money