Ilija Ircink and Spencer Cothroll, students from Shorewood Intermediate School, have earned the Best in State in the international World of 8 Billion student video contest for their video, Water Contamination. Sponsored by Population Education, a program of the nonprofit Population Connection, the contest invites young people to explore the challenges of population growth and propose sustainable solutions.

 More than 3,200 videos were created this year from students around the world. Participants chose one of three pressing global topics—Child Wellbeing, Rainforest Ecosystems, or Sanitation—and created a 1-minute video that included at least one idea for a sustainable solution to the challenge.

Mrs. Kopplin and Mrs. Stridde who supported 7th grade Civics students in creating and submitting videos, helped to support students as they worked to bring their ideas to life. 

Now in its 14th year, the World of 8 Billion contest has engaged more 32,000 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. Each year, topics are updated to reflect current global trends and challenges. The 2025 judging panel included 51 experts from around the world. 

More than $10,000 in prizes is awarded annually to student filmmakers in recognition of their outstanding effort and achievement.

“We hope the contest helps amplify student voices on the complex issues of our growing world,” said Pam Wasserman, Senior Vice President for Education at Population Connection. “The winning videos really celebrate the students’ exemplary research, creativity and problem-solving skills.”

 The World of 8 Billion contest will return next year with new topics, welcoming both new and returning students to share their ideas for a more sustainable world.