POUGHKEEPSIE … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the Dutchess County Department of Health (DCDOH) have announced Fayza Sekatawa, 16, a Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School junior, has been selected as the winner of this year’s “Escape the Vape” Anti Vaping Art Contest, presented in partnership with Dutchess BOCES and The Art Effect. The new initiative invited middle and high school students to create original artwork that raises awareness about the risks of vaping. This year’s contest drew many impressive submissions, each highlighting the creativity, insight, and powerful voices of young people across the county.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Dutchess County congratulates Fayza and all the students who took part in this year’s ‘Escape the Vape’ art contest. By sharing their artistic talents, they helped spread the important message with teens that vaping is dangerous. Their participation highlights Dutchess County’s efforts to help all our neighbors of every age make healthy decisions.”
Ms. Sekatawa’s winning submission, a descriptive storyboard, was chosen for its powerful message, clear narrative, and thoughtful use of local imagery. Judges chose the piece for its creativity, strong visual impact, and ability to connect with teen audiences. As the winner, Ms. Sekatawa will receive a paid summer internship with The Art Effect, turning her concept into a professional video for use in a countywide media campaign and on social media platforms.
Ms. Sekatawa was honored on April 24 during the PKX Festival, a two day youth arts and media celebration in the City of Poughkeepsie, hosted by The Art Effect, featuring interactive art installations, youth produced media, live performances, and hands on creative activities showcasing the talent of young people across the region.
Dutchess County Health Commissioner Dr. Livia Santiago Rosado said, “Fayza’s work shows how powerful young voices can be in shaping healthier choices. Vaping poses real risks to teens, and when students speak directly to their peers through art, the message resonates in a way that adults alone cannot achieve. Her creativity reminds us that youth leadership is essential to building a healthier future for our community.”
The inaugural “Escape the Vape” contest is part of Dutchess County’s broader effort to combat youth vaping. Funding for the initiative comes from New York State’s multistate settlement with JUUL Labs Inc., awarded to DCDOH and Dutchess BOCES to support youth education and prevention programs.
To learn about the Dutchess County Department of Health and its offerings and initiatives visit: dutchessny.gov/health.
