Creative storytelling meets public health and continues to earn high praise. With over 13,000 entries submitted worldwide, the 46th Annual Telly Awards recognized the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) and Hip Hop Public Health’s EMPOWER campaign with a Silver Award for Social Video Series. This honor joins the Communicator Award of Excellence the campaign received earlier this month, celebrating its engaging, music-driven approach to asthma education for youth.
The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens and are judged by leaders from top video platforms, streaming networks, production companies, and television. This year’s winners include Pixar Animation Studios, Hearst Media, ESPN, LinkedIn, NASA, and more.
“We’re honored to receive the Telly Award and excited to see EMPOWER continue to be recognized for its creativity and impact,” said Sara Espinoza, president and CEO of NEEF. “This achievement underscores the power of creative partnerships and how innovative storytelling can support the health and well-being of young people.”
We’re honored to receive the Telly Award and excited to see EMPOWER continue to be recognized for its creativity and impact,
Sara Espinoza, President & CEO of NEEF
Launched in 2023 through a partnership between NEEF and Hip Hop Public Health, EMPOWER uses original music and animation to deliver relevant, engaging health education to youth with asthma. Each of the eight original songs and animated videos focuses on a key component of asthma self-management, represented by the EMPOWER acronym: Environment, Medication, Plan, Open communication, Well-being, Extinguish, and Resilience.
Hip Hop Public Health is an award-winning nonprofit co-founded by renowned neurologist Dr. Olajide Williams and hip hop icon Doug E. Fresh. Their collaboration with NEEF aims to inspire young people to take charge of their health with evidence-based, self-management skills presented in a format that is accessible and relatable.
“We’re honored to be recognized with this award alongside our incredible partners at NEEF," said Lindsey Harr, Hip Hop Public Health’s chief program and operations officer. "At Hip Hop Public Health, we believe in the power of music to break through barriers, spark curiosity, and make health literacy engaging and accessible for all communities. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering young people with the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their health."
The Telly Awards Judging Council is composed of leading professionals from brands like Roku, Patreon, MediaPro, Pluto TV, and BBDO New York.
For the full list of 2025 Telly Awards winners, visit the Telly Awards website.
To access the full EMPOWER collection on-demand and for free, visit the HHPH Learning Studio.
