According to Suicide Prevention Action Network USA, 30,000 Americans die by suicide annually, and an additional 700,000 or more individuals attempt suicide each year as well. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 10-24-year olds. In Montgomery County, Maryland, 50 residents commit suicide annually, and an additional 350 attempts are made as well.
Humza Kazmi has learned of this epidemic in a very personal way; he had to talk two friends out of taking their own lives. To combat this epidemic, he knew he had to do something to intervene on behalf of the teenagers he did not know. Humza chose the printed word and graphic arts to get his message to teens at risk. He decided on producing a series of anti-suicide posters, fliers, and leaflets. He spent more than 200 hours researching, designing, and printing his work.
Humza designed his posters and fliers to reach the friends of suicidal teens, as well as those youth directly at risk. His posters and fliers inform teens where to call for help, what action to take, and even which danger signs might indicate that a teen or his or her friend is contemplating suicide. While it sometimes proves difficult convincing adults about the need for such a project, Humza's dedication to the task never wavers. And his posters and fliers capture the attention of the intended audience through bold, eye-catching designs and thought-provoking captions. After a review and approval of the material by the county school board and Suicide Prevention Action Network, Humza had his posters and fliers distributed to most of the high schools in his county last year. He has since provided them to libraries and grocery chains in his region. Later this year, Humza will distribute his suicide-prevention materials to various universities as well as to youth and religious centers.
Humza deserves recognition because of his dedication, hard work, and service to others. His posters have a far-reaching impact, since they not only seek to save the lives of suicidal teens, but also to protect the lives of their friends and families from heartbreak and tragedy.
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