Sydney Youth Challenge

On Thursday 3 September 2009 the NOTHING BEATS THE REAL THING! Youth Challenge on film/DVD piracy was held in Sydney.

70 students from 8 NSW schools worked through a program that challenged and entertained them - asking them to come to an understanding about the implications of film piracy for the sort of society they want to create. While most students (and teachers!) had at some time been 'pirates' themselves, they realised that there were considerable implications to their actions, and all agreed that it was a fair and proper civics and citizenship strategy to 'just say NO.'

Surprise guest industry presenters were Michael Selwyn, MD Paramount Pictures Australia, and Katrina Risteska, singer dancer and actress.

Michael explained how many associated industries depend upon the film industry and are adversely affected by film piracy. He also outlined the importance of innovative marketing and showed some terrific trailers of upcoming movies.

Kat described the personal impact of the issue on young actors like herself and many excited students now have photos of themselves with a star of 'So You Think You Can Dance' and a new film 'The Combination'.

A highlight was the role play advertisements that groups created to complete the communication task: to Inform, Explain, Entertain and Influence. The 8 presentations were clever and fun, and showed that students had really thought about this personal issue.