âNever Underestimate the Power of Gen Zâ
Melissa, a 15-year-old from Gardiner, New York who requested Gizmodo only use her first name for privacy reasons, is another one of the contestâs finalists. She first became inspired to participate in the contest last year when she accompanied her mom to the polls to vote. While she was there, Melissa received an âI Votedâ sticker, designed by the winner of that yearâs contest, and a booklet announcing the contest.
At that time, she thought the sticker âlooked really goodâ and remarked that she hadnât seen one like it before. Once the county started advertising the contest this year, she thought she should give it a shot. Melissa said she appreciated that the contest gave her a chance to use her voice in her community as âteens rarely get opportunities to vote and express themselves when it comes to politics.â
As for her design, which you can see above, Melissa said she chose a heart because of the famous âI Love NYâ catch phrase and because she wanted to show her love for Ulster County.
âThe messages I hope my design sends people is that every vote counts, to never underestimate the power of Gen Z because we are the future, and you should always rise up and use your voice!â Melissa wrote in an email.
