Music can be a powerful tool to reach a wide audience when it comes to raising awareness about social issues and other problems.

With that goal in mind, some young rappers are hoping their music will convince other young people to stop the violence, that's what makes them our Central Floridians of the week.

"Do the right thing. Life can be so exciting. Y'all know being in a gang is wrong. That's for cows that can't get along," rapped Shenikwa Daniels.

This aspiring young rap artist, and nine other young performers from Central Florida, all received awards for writing rap music with a positive message.

"A lot of kids don't listen to the adults, so if we can get someone of our own peer group, I think we can get everybody to stop the violence, and everything will be better," said Jared Burgos, one of the winners of the 2nd Annual Rap Against Violence songwriting contest.

The main requirement for the competition was that the songs contain a message against gang and gun violence.

Daniels, an 11th-grader, talked with News 13 about her winning entry "Speak Up, Speak Out."

"It's really telling people you should speak up and speak out because if you see something happening that's bad, you need to let the authorities know," Daniels said.

The winners were able to work with music industry professionals to record a CD. Music from the CD will air on at least one local radio station. The music will also be distributed throughout Central Florida.

"We need to unite and start beefing one another when it all comes down. You're only hurting yourself. Cause when you really think about it, guns are bad for your health," Burgos rapped.

If you would like to watch this story again, or any other Central Floridian of the Week stories, go to News 13 On Demand on Channel 313.