Deirdre Newcomb of Alabama Wins VRG 2026 Video Contest

# What happened

# Why it matters to readers

Deirdre's story is a practical example of how a short-term dietary practice (the Daniel fast) can lead someone to reconsider regular eating habits and make a sustained lifestyle change. Her perspective may be useful for students and young adults judging how food choices intersect with time management, mental focus, and long-term health.

# What Deirdre says

Deirdre ties her decision to both spiritual and health reasons. She reports improved energy and self-discipline after giving up meat during the fast. Over three years of following a vegan lifestyle, she says the practice has shaped her daily habits and helped her prioritize wellbeing while pursuing academic goals.

# Where to watch the winning video

Deirdre's video is on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftB4lxi9OCs

# Contest and scholarship details VRG published

• The submission deadline for the next VRG video contest is July 15, 2027. See VRG's video scholarship page for details: https://www.vrg.org/videoscholarship.php
• VRG also offers $5,000 scholarships for high school seniors who have promoted veganism. The next scholarship deadline is February 20, 2027. Scholarship details: https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar
• VRG hosts and archives other winning videos at: https://www.vrg.org/veg_videos.php and on their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@VegResourceGrp/shorts

# About the Vegetarian Resource Group (short)

VRG is a nonprofit focused on educating the public about veganism and related topics such as health, nutrition, ecology, ethics, and world hunger. It provides resources to health professionals, food services, educators, students, vegans, and vegetarians, including the Vegan Journal and published books.

# How to support or participate

• Join VRG to support outreach to young people: https://www.vrg.org/member/cabdacae.php
• Donate at: https://www.vrg.org/donate

# Takeaway for readers

If you're curious about personal paths to plant-based eating, Deirdre's story emphasizes small, intentional choices and the role of discipline in sustaining change—especially for students juggling responsibilities. If you're a student interested in producing outreach media or applying for a scholarship, note the contest and scholarship deadlines and the VRG pages that list submission rules and archives of past winners.