For All The Girls Magazine - Issue 1 by For All The Girls Magazine

MARCH 2021

ISSUE 1

FOR ALL THE GIRLS BUSINESS / LIFESTYLE / MEDIA / FASHION / SOCIAL ISSUES / MORE

CONTENTS 2

EDITOR'S NOTE

WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE MUSIC WORLD

SEXUAL HARASSMENT: HOW TO RECOGNIZE IT AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO STOP IT

MUSIC THE MOVIE: SIA’S HAZARDOUS ABLEISM AND NEPOTISM

THE TRUTH BEHIND CANCEL CULTURE AND ITS TOXICITY

HOW TO BE A NONJUDGEMENTAL VEGAN

WRITERS FEATURED

WOMEN IN STEM

5 STOCK MARKET TIPS FOR YOUNG INVESTORS

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Georgia Pomozova-Mann Managing Editor and Artistic Director Alyssa Zhang Managing Editor Ella Ionescu

Public Relations Manager Sipora Westreich Content Curator Anastasia Dimas Social Media Manager Izzy Gelman

EDITOR'S NOTE

This year, my English teacher

However, considering the current matters

recommended I start a reading blog, channel,

at hand regarding the various women's

or other writing outlets of the sort. However, I

movements that have been heavily circulating

decided to do what I do best in order to take

at the moment, we believe that, prior to the

her recommendation a big step further: I

"real" start of this issue, it is important to

worked my fingers down to the bone to

acknowledge what has been going on. To all

concieve my new, big project.

the women who have been hurt verbally,

Starting a magazine was definitely not one

mentally, and/or physically; we hear you.

of my 2021 New Year's Resolutions, but here I

These are not just recent issues, but ones that

am now. If you told me a year ago that this

have been going on for months, years,

was what would be happening in my life, I

centuries. Respect and protect all the women

definitely would not have believed you.

in your life. Please.

Nevertheless, I am so immensely proud of all the people and work that has been put into the creation of this first issue! Working with so many women with amazing ideas, work ethics, stories, and experiences, has been a journey I am lucky to be a part of. With this, the team and I cannot wait for you all to dive into our very first release.

Georgia Pomozova-Mann EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE MUSIC WORLD IN HONOUR OF WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH BY NATASHA BERNSTEIN

The music industry has always been a struggle for women, as it has been and continues to be, an incredibly male-dominated business. Even with that obstacle, there are many women who changed the face of music forever. To honour women's history month, here are some of the greatest female artists and what they did that changed fashion, culture, and most importantly, music. To begin, the first on our list is singing icon Ella Fitzgerald, an American singer known as the “Queen of Jazz”. She was known for her perfect pitch and clear voice, which was presumed to have the power to shatter glass. With her everlasting impact on jazz music, she paved the way for women ahead, being one of the first to have a highly successful career in jazz. Her fame kicked off in the mid-30s, leading to her first Grammy award in 1958. Ella became the first black woman to win a Grammy and would proceed to win a total of 13 over the years.

Image via GoogleImages

Next off, Nina Simone, one of the most famous artists of the 50s and 60s. Originally, her dream and passion had been to become a famous pianist but obstacles relating to poverty and sexism got in her way, so she resorted to singing instead. She left her mark by not only creating a mix of jazz, blues, and folk, but by having been a civil rights activist as well. Due to her fortitude, she became known as the voice of the civil rights movement. Using music as a form of protesting, Nina is most known for writing “Mississippi Goddam” and the famous anthem, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black”. To this day, we see how Nina inspired others with her sincere lyrics and her divine voice.

Image via Vogue

The unforgettable Aretha Franklin has undoubtedly left her mark in the music world with her striking voice, popularizing in the late 60s and later being crowned as the “Queen of Soul”. Known for hits like “Respect”, “Say a Little Prayer” and her cover of “Son of a Preacher Man”, she has been decorated as one of the best-selling music artists of all time, selling over 75 million records worldwide. In 1987, Aretha became the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame, an incredible accomplishment for women across the world. Being more than a music legend, she gave a voice to the civil rights movement and advocated through the power of music. Anthems such as “Respect” powered Image via FanPop

on the political movements of the era, with her never-ending dedication to creating social justice, she will never be forgotten.

Dolly Parton rose to fame at the end of the 60s and truly flourished in the 70s with her unique style of blurring the lines between country and pop music. Known as one of the most influential pop culture icons, Dolly Parton didn’t always get credited for her impressive voice and raw, heartfelt lyrics. Although, Dolly has proved herself to be an excellent actress and has starred in moving roles such as Truvy Jones in the 90s classic, Steel Magnolias. She built herself an expansive career and has been recognized as a successful businesswoman after having created her own theme park. Dolly Parton was, and continues to be, an inspiration to women and girls around the world.

Image via Getty Images SOCIAL ISSUES

Moving on to Cher, one of the most notable pop culture icons of all time. Beginning as a singer, to leading her own show, following to become an oscar-winning actress, she has done it all. Cher has transformed herself on the red carpet leading to some of the most memorable fashion moments, inspiring a fierce yet elegant style that is acknowledged in the high-end fashion of today. In the mid60s, she rose to fame in a husband-wife duo, Sonny and Cher, proceeding to go solo quickly after. She broke barriers in music with her deep contralto voice, able to carry itself to powerful heights. She popularized auto-tune in the music world with the 1998 hit, “Belief”, later being known as the ‘Cher effect'. She has managed to continuously reinvent herself, and is one of the few people to have had a Image via Pinterest

#1 hit single in every decade since the 60s.

Janis Joplin, possibly one of the most talented and famous musicians of the late 60s. Bringing a gritty sound to a mixture of rock, soul, and blues, she became one of the most famous rockstars of her era. She was dubbed as the “first queen of rock and roll” paving a way for future women in rock. With her vulnerable lyrics and enigmatic edge, she was able to generate an authentic performance like no other. Although her solo career was short, coming to an end with her untimely death, it managed to be one of the most iconic in rock history today. Image via Pinterest

Stevie Nicks, undoubtedly one of the greatest songwriters of all time, being the only person to have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, not once, but twice (as a solo artist and as a member of Fleetwood Mac). She has become one of the most influential musicians, inspiring artists such as Harry Styles, HAIM, and many others. She is recognized today as one of the world's most prominent songwriters, having brought romantic and poetical lyrics to classic rock. Beyond being a talented writer, she has captivated audiences since the mid-70s with her mystical performances and her distinctively husky voice.

Image via Pinterest

Carole King, a defying artist in the music world that received her first #1 single, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” at the young age of 17. Writing intimate classic rock hits such as “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”, “It's Too Late”, and “Where You Lead”, she has become one of the most celebrated female singer-songwriters of the 70s. Her cover of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman” was greatly praised, and even received commendations by Aretha Franklin for her touching rendition. Image via Vanity Fair

Siouxsie Sioux, known as the lead singer of Siouxsie and the Banshees, has been acknowledged as an inspiring artist in alternative rock, elevating in the post-punk era. Enthroned as the “Queen of Goth”, she has led her career with her incredible vocal range and has created a sense of fluidity spanning through different genres in music. The British singer touched many subjects thought to be more secluded in music such as; sexual abuse and mental illness, leaving a perpetual mark with her lyrical honesty. Image via Wikipedia 4

SOCIAL ISSUES

Debbie Harry, lead singer of the band Blondie, incorporated the new-wave sound into the 70s and 80s. Emerging in the punk scene in 1974, Debbie transformed the way the world saw mainstream female artists. With her daring wardrobe choices, her never-ending confidence, and her unique singing style, she showed the world that she was more than just a pretty face. The band didn’t become famous until the late 70s, when hits like “Call Me” and “Heart of Glass” came out and changed the face of popular music. Image via Chris Stein / Negative: Me, Blondie, and the Advent of Punk

Joan Jett, by far one of the most influential female rock stars of all time. Rising to fame as the lead guitarist of the 70s, all-girl band The Runaways, her innovative style and her musical talent led to her ranking in Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time list. She has defied stereotypes as a female artist through fashion and songwriting, breaking barriers with her undisguised and aggressive lyrics. She is remembered as one of the pioneers of the feminist-punk ‘riot grrl’ movement of the early 90s. Image via Getty Images

Rock icon Tina Turner is a trailblazer when it comes to being a powerful role model for women and girls all around. One of the fiercest women in music out there, she never failed to make sure her presence was heard. She reformed herself as a solo artist, after having been in a husband-wife duo that ended disastrously after she suffered from abuse. Coming back stronger and better than ever, she had a colossal influence that would change the 80s and music from then on forever. Known for her lavishing vocal range, her captivating performances, risky dance moves, and her dazzling outfits, she was crowned as the ‘Queen of Rock n’ Roll’. An emotional voice that amplified itself, bewitching all those who heard it, she would go on to win 8 Grammys for her volatile style that flitted from blues to

Image via Pinterest

rock. Without a doubt, Whitney Houston is one of the most influential and best-selling artists to have ever lived. Her voice had the ability to bring tears to those who listened, leading her to be one of the most awarded female artists of all time. Her voice had the ability to entwine sincerity, genuine emotion, and honesty, which led her to be the first woman to have a #1 album on Billboard's Top 200 charts. In addition, she broke racial barriers in the industry, being the first black woman to appear on the cover of Seventeen. Songs like; “I Will Always Love You” and “Natural Women” are just some examples of her ability to transform every song into her own and to bestow such passionate performances. A pop icon, constantly singing from the heart in the most soulful Image via Getty Images

manner, she has created timeless music that will live on for generations to come.

Her career blew up in 1984, when Madonna dropped Like a Virgin, a daring album that without a doubt made a statement that wouldn’t be forgotten. Her risqué performances and music broke barriers for women all around, allowing her to become one of the world's biggest icons. She has had one of the largest influences on pop culture, forever changing fashion and music, and continues to empower others fighting against the stereotypes of her role as an artist. Image via Glamour Magazine SOCIAL ISSUES

Janet Jackson hit her commercial success in the mid-80s, which would eventually lead to her being the highest-paid recording artist in history. Her music confronted sexism and racism, leading her career with the utmost confidence that was never forgotten. Embracing her sexuality through her music and performances, she was able to amplify subjects for women that had been sheltered thus far in pop culture. After an unjust incident at the 2004 Super Bowl completely tarnished her career and cost her to be blacklisted, it was difficult for her to pursue her musical success as before. Nonetheless, her influence, confidence, and style will never be forgotten. Image via FanPop

Whether you like her or not, there is no doubt that Courtney Love was one of the most influential female artists of the 90s, bringing a whole new meaning to grunge rock. Lead Singer of the iconic band Hole, Courtney delivered a sound so raw with brutally honest and confrontational lyrics that led to her everlasting impact on alternative rock. Becoming one of the most intriguing figures in the music scene, she has used her tenacious raspy voice and her own strange character to renounce herself as one of the few women in the alternative scene. Image via Glamour Magazine

Taking a jump to the early 2000s, Amy Winehouse was patently one of the greatest artists of all time. Rising to fame with her impeccable contralto voice, brutally raw, and heartfelt lyrics, she won a total of 6 Grammys with 8 nominations. Back to Black was an extremely successful album that emitted every possible emotion related to heartbreak, sorrow, and suffering, all while being carried with poignant vocals that touched a mixture of soul and contemporary R&B. Having died at the young age of 27, her stature has not been forgotten nor foreseen. She will continue to go down as one of the greatest singers and musical icons of the 2000s, and although her career was short-lived her impact was tremendous. Image via Google Images

Having been in the spotlight for over 15 years, Taylor Swift has continued to flourish in the music industry; album after album. She has made the bold choice of reinventing herself several times, going from country, to pop, to folk. One of the best-selling artists of all time, and 10-time Grammy winner, there is no doubt that she is one of the most influential singer-songwriters, paving the way for music ahead. More than just a singer and a performer, Taylor Swift practically reinvented the meaning of a heartfelt pop song. Rising to fame at the mere age of 15, she proved herself to be a lyrical genius early on, creating timeless anthems such as “You Belong With Me” and “Love Story”. To begin to list her accomplishments and her exact influence would take hours, but to get an idea of the effect she has had; she was the first artist to have all the songs from the same album on the Billboards top 100 charts. Besides her musical influence, she has spanned out and used her platform for good, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, women's rights, and has encouraged others to vote during political elections.

SOCIAL ISSUES

Image via PopSugar

Last, but not least, the ever-so iconic and compelling; Lady Gaga. Forever changing the meaning of a good pop song, she has used her enigmatic style and voice to create an irreversible influence on pop culture. With her utmost confidence and fearlessness, she has taken the industry into her own hands since 2008. Her bold fashion choices show how she treats everything she does as art, her music, her look, everything. Whether she's on stage, or you’re listening to her on the radio, she never fails to leave behind an incredible performance. An artist like no other, her alluring voice has grasped the attention of millions across the world with songs like, “A Million Reasons”, “Shallow”, and “Bad Romance”. Her eloquence and power began to shine when she released “Born This Way”, a song that defied norms, eventually becoming an LGBTQ+ anthem, giving a voice in pop-music.

Image via Pinterest

To conclude, this list is to commemorate some of the most influential women in music, and the praise that they deserve for changing music, fashion, and popculture, forever. From artists such as Ella Fitzgerald to Lady Gaga, they have all impacted history and life as we know it through their music and deserved to be recognized and commemorated for it.

SOCIAL ISSUES

SEXUAL HARASSMENT: HOW TO RECOGNIZE IT AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT B Y E L L A I O N E S C U Sexual harassment is a widespread problem that is faced by many people, predominantly women, around the world. Harassment can often be misunderstood, leaving victims feeling as though their personal experiences are invalid, causing other people to invalidate victims or encourage people to harass women because they believe what they are doing is unharmful. There are many ways we can recognize sexual harassment and slowly put a stop to these sick and unjust actions. To many people, sexual harassment is believed to

Recognizing harassment could prevent men from

only be physical - resulting in them harassing

sexually harassing women because they find it “funny”

women inadvertently and attempting to put the

or “unharmful”, stop women from feeling unsafe and

victim down while justifying their actions, however,

uncomfortable in public, and could also potentially

that is truly not the case. According to the Canadian

save a woman's life. When more people begin to

Human Rights Commission, “Harassment is a form

recognize what sexual harassment really looks like,

of discrimination. It includes any unwanted

they can better interfere with it in public in ways such

physical or verbal behaviour that offends or

humiliates you.”. Harassment can be verbal and/or

uncomfortable and acting as if you know them to get

physical and can be aimed at someone due to their

them away from the harasser. Furthermore, harassers

age, race, religion, sex/gender, disability, etc.

themselves can put a stop to their actions and realize

However, in comparison to most other forms of

how vile and harmful they are. Recognizing sexual

harassment, women most notably suffer from

harassment does not only start with others, but with

sexual harassment (in addition to other forms, if

victims themselves.

applicable). In 2020 the Government of Ontario discovered that 1 in 3 Canadian women have been sexually harassed. Sexual harassment is not only unwanted touching, but it is also about degrading women in ways such as not taking no for answer and invading personal space for the harasser's benefit. It is important for people to understand the significance of the actions they may believe are “harmless”. 8

SOCIAL ISSUES

approaching

someone

who

clearly

looks

A fact people often tend to neglect and shed very minimal light on is that men can also experience sexual harassment. According to the Government of Ontario, in 2020, 1 in 8 Canadian men

have

experienced

sexual

harassment.

Although this number is significantly lower than

HELP

the sexual harassment rate for women, that does not lead to the conclusion that this issue is “not an issue men face”. Sexual harassment is a problem that nobody (male, female, non-binary, etc.) should ever face. When witnessing sexual

STOP

harassment upon men, the general public should attempt to put a stop to it in the same or similar ways as they would for a woman. Many men do not report sexual harassment or stand against it while being targeted because they feel as though it

SEXUAL

is “unmanly” of them to report a situation that could make them be seen as “weak” by persons. Men should feel supported and know that once they report this situation, they may likely be seen

HARASSMENT

as strong rather than weak due to the fact that they were able to seek justice in the situation at hand. Recognizing sexual harassment and attempting to put a stop to it can make women, men, and others feel more comfortable in both public and private environments. It is crucial for victims to understand that they are not in this alone, as well as it is important for all members of society to recognize

and

understand

what

sexual

harassment really is and how it affects both them and others. Putting a stop to sexual harassment

ASSAULTED WOMEN'S HELPLINE IN ONTARIO: 1-866-863-0511 MALE SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE, ONTARIO: 1-866-877-0015 NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE OR WHERE YOU LIVE, HELP IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE

would make the world a better and safer place. Be part of that change. Sources https://www.ontario.ca/page/sexual-violence https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/eng/content/what-harassment-1

SOCIAL ISSUES |

INSIDE A TYPICAL TEENAGE BOY'S MIND AN INTERVIEW PIECE BY ALYSSA ZHANG

Boys. There seems to be this never-ending flow of questions we have about them, and at times they may seem as manic and complicated as a fever dream. In order to truly understand them, someone has to take one for the team - and sweat it out. Throughout the course of writing this article, I personally interviewed a variety of teenage boys to attempt at understanding what’s going on in their impossibly complicated brains. At first glance they may seem to have emotional depths of kiddie pools, the little space taken up by sex, girls, cars and video games. I asked them questions about love, masculinity, stereotypes, and heartbreaks; after further investigation and analysis, I believe I'm ready to attempt to draw a rather messy map for you - our dear reader.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN IN LOVE? Every boy I asked answered yes, even if it was after a little hesitation - it’s difficult for them to admit most of the time, and happens so rarely that they’re afraid of getting hurt… and losing it all. “It’s a good feeling, it feels like you’re on top of the world.” says one interviewee. What made him fall so hard was the way she spent time with her family, and cared about him - in a messy world, she made him feel safe. When they broke up, he never fell in love again and plunged back into his chaos. But this time, he willingly let the chaos consume him. “It’s stressful, I’m afraid of hurting them [...] it’s not like I don’t trust them - they just hold so much power over me now.” This may be the effect of a societal structure where the model masculine figure should be the one who always holds control. When they lose that control that’s been handed to them since before they were even able to walk, it can cause them to lash out and trustless. “It wasn’t a snap moment that I knew I loved her; I woke up every day and chose to.” Sadly, love isn’t always like Gatsby and Daisy’s, where it is unwavering and unconditional and they can do no wrong, but when you love someone enough, they’ll choose to be there even after seeing your worst. These are possibly the sweetest and most genuine answers I've ever heard. Keep in mind most boys do want that Hollywood great love story just as much as the next girl does; they’re just scared that those Hollywood lights could burn out - and leave them in the dark.

SOCIAL ISSUES

DO YOU COMPARE YOURSELF TO YOUR FRIENDS, AND DOES IT HAVE A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON YOU? This one was a hard yes from everyone - comparison physically, personality-wise, and definitely height. “Yeah I definitely do, anything I can compare I will.” says an interviewee. Even the “cockiest” boys that I’ve known forever answered that it is difficult to not strive to be the funniest, the tallest, or the biggest - their insecurities get the best of them and can show up in the ugliest ways - whether through bad jokes at someone else's expense, or an internalized destruction within themselves hidden to the naked eye. In the end, everyone wants what they don’t have. The difference is, some see it as a personal growth journey where it is a way to improve themselves, and others see it as something they just have to swallow and suck it up. Moral of the story - although boys may come off as strong, they’re fighting just as many internal struggles as you are.

HOW IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PARENTS? For most of these boys, their relationships with their mothers are significantly better than with their fathers - possibly affecting their actions both now and for the rest of their lives. Their feelings towards their moms were generally loving and revolve around wanting to protect them. In contrast, feelings towards their fathers suggested that their relationships were rocky, possibly violent, and emotionally or physically unavailable. “I hope he gets hit by a car.” According to a recent study from the American Psychological Association (APA), boys with unavailable fathers can cause a dramatic butterfly effect on most if not all relationships in their future - causing fear of abandonment, inability to trust, taking on too much responsibility too young, and even toxic masculinity. When fathers have abusive/sociopathic tendencies or are simply not there, specifically boys develop a survival instinct of sorts that causes them to either adapt to the environment and mimic their only male role model - causing them to accidentally be just like their parents. Or, they become the complete opposite and attempt to protect everyone and everything around them leaving little space for them to protect themselves. An unhealthy relationship with a parent makes waves in every child’s life, but for young boys specifically - they’re naturally programmed to look up to an alpha male. That wolf can either leave some deep scars, or teach you to hunt.

HAS TOXIC MASCULINITY AFFECTED YOUR LIFE? Every participant claimed they weren’t really a victim to it or denied it was a real issue at all - which may be an indicator within itself. Now, this opinion may be a bit controversial, but I believe that every boy has experienced toxic masculinity either knowingly or unknowingly throughout their life before. Whether it’s hesitation to show emotion other than rage or bravado or suffering pain in silence, I know for a fact that these boys have felt the societal pressure to check every box, even if they refuse to admit it. In this power struggle and scramble for dominance, boys sacrifice many things such as being able to admit a baby is cute, ordering a “girly” drink, or even avoiding seeking care for physical and mental health at risk of being seen as “too feminine” or weak. “I feel that it’s unnecessary. I can talk about my feelings all I want, but nothing's gonna change.. so what’s the point?” states another interviewee. This being said, there is nothing wrong with traditional masculinity - providing for your family, winning at sports, wanting to be respected. However, when one allows these values to override their happiness or well-being, it becomes toxic - leaving boys to fight the battle against harmful gender roles alone. We have been unaware of how normalized this impossible ideal of “manliness” is and how dormant we all are in taking steps towards eliminating this toxic mindset, therefore permitting many boys to continue believing they are alone.

SOCIAL ISSUES

HOW HAVE RACIAL STEREOTYPES AFFECTED YOUR LIFE? What I found most intriguing about these answers is the denial that came with it. “I mean, yes I guess. I was called "blackie" all throughout [a primarily caucasian] elementary school, but eight year olds can’t really hate crime you. It was just a joke.” Something that constantly lingers in any big city or small town is the blatant racism in the air, dismissed by girlfriends and teachers waived with the simple excuse of “boys will be boys.” Whether racism is throwing the n-word around or a not-so-funny joke, we must stop normalizing it. That being said, I can’t pretend that I’m unmistakably perfect with a moral compass of gold; some of my best friends have made offensive jokes that I’ve dismissed in fear of being accused of not being able to take a joke or being called a raging activist, and I know from personal experience it can feel scary and isolating standing up to the people you love. This snowballs into an even larger issue for teenage boys - disagreeing with their friends may risk the respect of their boys, where showing any signs of emotion can be seen as weakness. This is an issue that us as a society must pull from the root. This interview may have been a bit uncomfortable for one to sit through, but it was worth it to truly understand what was going on in their minds. I believe that it is so important to talk about scary, “embarrassing” topics, even when vulnerable and exposed. We must understand that growing up as a teenage boy is daunting and unknown even when we only see a strong front. The “for the boys” flags may cover up the holes in the drywall, but no amount of muscle or brawn can cover up insecurity, heartbreak, or the uncertainty of coming of age.

"Even if it isn’t now, or next month, or even in "Even if it isn’t now, or next month, or even in the next few years, I hope that the definition of the next few years, I hope that the definition of masculinity can change for our society; giving masculinity can change for our society; giving teenage boys a new ideal to look up to - where teenage boys a new ideal to look up to - where being a man means being embracing a full, being a man means being embracing a full, authentic truth." authentic truth." 12

SOCIAL ISSUES

LETTERS OF LOVE: PART 1 WRITING AND ART BY ANASTASIA DIMAS X, There once was a time where I reached my breaking point and could no longer contain in my mind the love I had for you I. So I got out my brush along with my paints and began to paint; to get it all down in a way only you and I would comprehend. A couple of hours ago, I thought to myself, “I’m going to dedicate this painting to X”. But then I realized. I realized that from the beginning, it was always you. I painted this specific painting because it made me feel like you were with me in times when you weren’t. The second wine glass was for you. It always was. It was for the moment where I close my eyes before I fall asleep and the second I wake up, so I can glance at our glasses and remember our love. I can’t dedicate something to you if it was always yours from the start. See, all that was on my mind the entire time when I was painting, was you. Always you. I listened to the stupid playlist that I made for you, with all of our songs. I stroked my brush with every beat of the song we listened to on repeat. Do you see the tiny lumps of watered-down paint? The ones that look a little too blended in with each other? It's because of the tears that poured down my face and fell onto the painting. The entirety of the painting was just a bit more well-blended and watered, because of our relationship’s inevitability. I left some parts blank. Not because I was too lazy or because it looked better that way, but rather because some things are better unsaid. Those parts represent everything I wish I said, but never will. I can wish and wish constantly, but a deep place inside of me knows that it's for the best, and that breaks me. Or conceivably it’s regret that is getting the best of me. And the glasses? Well, that's a memoir. Of our everlasting, unfulfilled hopes and dreams. When you think about it, we aren't drawn once on the painting, yet we're all over it. Your presence is in the wilted flowers, reflected glass, and spoiled wine. Because lately, it seems as if you are everywhere. On the street signs I pass, in every lyric I hear, in every colour I paint with. It's all you.

I think that's what this painting will always be. False hope, empty dreams and glasses that will always stay filled, the words I never said, and us. That’s where it’ll sit. For now, I’ll get a chance to admire our story in this painting, hung across my bedroom wall, and perhaps one day, if you care enough, the time will come to pass it on. When you’re ready, you can flip the corner of the sulking painting. Where the words I wrote will sit read by only our eyes. When you get a chance, touch the paint and you’ll be able to find my warmth. Everything I put in at my weakest point, loving you. Feel the gratitude in the soft, perfectly imperfect strokes and the heartache and sadness in the vulgar, bumpy hills of tears. I remember how you told me my last painting was beautiful. So perhaps one day in the far future, the part of you will still remain where you care for the beauty of a faded painting. Perhaps one day, we will cross paths once again in an entirely different stage of our lives, and you’ll receive the painting, the one that was always yours. Anastasia

WOMEN IN STEM IN HONOUR OF WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH BY NICOLE SANDELS But that’s a boys thing” is a phrase that every girl hears at least once in her life. Whether your interest is videogames or a certain sport, really anything traditionally boyish, you are going to hear it. One of these traditionally male things is the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) field. Since further back than Galileo was around, it was deemed absurd that a woman would want to venture into any STEM fields, as well as be any good at them. As time went on and major social changes occurred, more women pursued the STEM field, yet they still do not occupy anywhere near the number of men in STEM. Now you may be wondering, “why are more women not entering the STEM field? What is really causing such a gender gap?” There are many answers to this question, but one prominent answer is that young girls do not have as many female scientists to look up to, and are unknowingly affected by the gender stereotype. There have been studies that have proven this statement, telling us that gender-science stereotypes can influence young women's aspirations to enroll in any STEM majors at university. To solve this, if we can reduce the masculinity that comes with the idea of science, it has the potential to increase the likelihood of STEM aspirations in women. A good way of doing this is by taking a look at women in science throughout the centuries and allowing girls to learn about these iconic figures, as well as a chance to discover a new role model they didn’t know existed. Let’s dive right into the timeline of a few of history's most inspirational and influential female figures within STEM.

HYPATIA (360 AD - 415 AD) Hypatia, a Hellenistic Neoplatonist philosopher, is famous for being the greatest mathematician and astronomer of her time. She was a brilliant public speaker and scholar, and her work on algebraic equations and conic sections led her to the invention of the astrolabe for ship navigation and devices for measuring the density of fluids. I admire her for overcoming the profound sexism of her society, and serving as a figure for many women to follow. Her life story is definitely worth reading about, tragic - yet motivational, I highly recommend doing further research into her life. Image via Brittanica

AUGUSTA ADA KING-NOEL, COUNTESS OF LOVELACE (1815 - 1852) Ada Lovelace was an English mathematician and writer from the early 1800s. She is primarily known for her work on Charles Babbage’s proposed mechanical general-purpose computer, dubbed the Analytical Engine. She is credited as being the first computer programmer. Lovelace is also known for writing the first computer algorithm, inventing subroutine and recognizing the importance of looping (which you might know from grade 10 computer science). It is interesting that one of the most male-dominated fields was kickstarted by this genius female that lived well over a century ago. Image via Biography.com

MARIE CURIE (1867 - 1934) Maria Salomea Skłodowska remains one of the most iconic female figures from the late 1800s for her discovery of polonium and radium in 1898. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize for Physics in 1903 and, in 1911, she was the sole winner of the Nobel Prize of Chemistry. She is personally one of my favourite iconic female figures since she was the only woman to win an award in two different fields, which was an incredible feat for her time, and still is.

Image via Brittanica 14

SOCIAL ISSUES

AMELIA EARHART (1897-1937) Although most have heard of her, many do not know exactly what it is that Amelia Earhart is famous for. In 1932, she became the first woman to complete a solo flight across the Atlantic ocean. She was an inspiration to many, breaking down the gender constructs that were associated with aviation at the time. Additionally, she helped to found an organization called the “Ninety-Nines”, an establishment of female aviators. She even produced a clothing line in 1933 for women, designed for “the woman who lives actively”. Things abruptly went wrong in 1937 when she and her co-pilot ran out of fuel and crashed into the Pacific Ocean. Despite her tragic end, she continues to serve as an icon and inspiration for the women of today.

Image via Brittanica

ROSALIND FRANKLIN (1920-1958) At 15 years old, young Rosalind Franklin had decided that she wanted to become a scientist. That dream became a reality when she went on to become one of the most famous and important chemists and DNA researchers of her time. The data from her work was the first to demonstrate the basic dimensions of DNA strands and reveal the molecule was in two matching parts, running in opposite directions. Image via Brittanica

SALLY RIDE (1951-2012) NASA astronaut Sally Ride became the first American woman in space, serving as a mission specialist. She is the person who inspired my goal of becoming an astronaut, after reading about her at the age of seven. Ride holds the record of the youngest American in space, crossing the atmosphere at the young age of 32. After the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986, she served on the Rogers Commission and was an important figure in the investigation of the tragedy. Ride is a very important figure in NASA's history and has definitely made a significant impact.

Image via Wikepedia

Teaching people about famous women who have greatly impacted the field of science is crucial, and is one of the first steps in attacking the gender stereotype that “women are not good at science”. There was a study conducted a couple of years ago where children were asked to draw what they thought a scientist would look like. The children's drawings contained very few portrayals of women scientists, and these few were drawn by the girls in the class. To be specific, out of 4,807 drawings, only 28 were females. The implication that girls can do science just as well as boys needs to start as early as elementary schools, and that there are no genders associated with knowledge. Hopefully, there will be a time in the future in which girls will not need to question why so few women are involved in STEM, rather witnessing a greater amount of women doing research, making new discoveries, and prevailing in the world of STEM.

Sources https://www.britannica.com/topic/Women-in-Science-2100321/World-War-II-and-social-changes https://www.wgu.edu/blog/why-are-there-so-few-women-in-stem1907.html https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/27/world/women-in-science-you-should-know-scn/index.html https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2019.00060/full

SOCIAL ISSUES

| 15

The newest and most accepting generation, Gen Z, encompasses everyone born from roughly 1997 until around 2012/15 (the debate still continues as to which one of these end dates is true). As some may consider us to be one of the most powerful generations to have ever existed, we have received a large amount of repercussion, predominantly from other generations. Oftentimes, we are stereotyped as technology addicts with short attention spans who

IN DEFENSE OF GENERATION Z BY: CADENCE PARSONS

expect too much from the world around us. However, there are many arguments against this assumption. If you were to look through history and all of the challenging events past generations had to live through, rates of depression were no higher than they are now. These past generations went through extremely traumatic experiences and lifetimes, so why is mental illness so much more common and prevalent in youth today? There is no definite answer, but there are surely some possible explanations; one being the internet. The year 1995, the year that welcomed Gen Z to life, also happens to be the year that the internet was commercialized. We are the very first generation to never know a world without it. Compared to previous generations, we spend much more time communicating electronically and researching online. According to the Institute of Business Management, more than 74% of Gen Z says they spend their free time online. This is extremely damaging to our mental health as we are constantly being fed video after video and, post after post of (often) damaging and useless content. According to a study published by The Globe and Mail, in the first five years of the smartphone era, the proportion of Americans who said internet use interfered with their family time nearly tripled, from 11 percent to 28 percent. According to McGill University’s Office for Science and Society, research found that in a cohort of 6,595 U.S. adolescents, those who used social media more than three hours per day were at increased risk for developing mental health problems. Social media has been proven to directly link to depression, anxiety and unhappiness; as would forms of abuse, illness or loss. As improbable as it may seem, our phones can be nearly equivalent to a hard drug; they are an addictive substance that we just can not put down. “Internet addiction has some behavioural similarities to hard drug use,” says Antoine Bechara, a psychology professor and neuroscientist at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. We are addicted to the instant gratification and extra dopamine that it provides us. Gen Z is so dependent on our electronics that it actually takes training and practice to be able to properly function and carry on without it. As a result, our attention spans are short and we crave constant stimulation. We crave the excitement of going from one thing to another until eventually, we burn out. That feeling of being so mentally and emotionally drained can be insufferable, almost as if you've been hit by a crashing wave that left you soaked on a deserted beach. 16

SOCIAL ISSUES

Another factor that differentiates Gen Z from the rest is our parents. They have a big role in whom we have become as people, with the majority of Gen Z being raised by Millennials and Gen X-ers. According to a study done by Los Angeles Times, Gen Z is repeatedly called “degenerate” by those older than us, including our parents. What makes us so degenerate to them? Teenage boys did not invent pornography

and

teenage

girls

didn’t

mass-market

unattainable body images. Suicide attempts have doubled among young people in recent years, not because people are born degenerate, but because they were born into a world that rejects them. Parents need to stop mistaking contempt for tough love. This parenting style has been named Authoritarian Parenting and it is very common amongst Gen X. A second parenting style that is also very prevalent, though mostly within the Millennial generation, is Helicopter Parenting. It is believed that Helicopter Parents have coddled today's youth, allowing them to escape the responsibility and independence that promote mental resilience. Children raised with this type of support are able to gain a slight competitive advantage while they are young. Of course, those with live-in, full-time personal assistants as parents are likely to excel when they're competing against individuals who must do most things on their own! This means that later on in life, they are going to have to go through a big shift when adjusting to the new-found independence of their lives. Children are influenced by their parents and value their ideologies until they can form their own. Whether one likes it or not, our parents are a part of us. Maybe the reason for all of our unresolved issues is because of the state of the world that we were left with by past generations and our parents. This generation was left a mess and it is out of obligation that we solve it. Global warming, race and gender discrimination, food insecurity, homelessness and countless more. It is overwhelming, in a way that can not be understood by anyone other than us.

All of this being said, even after Generation Z is repeatedly misunderstood and misconceived, even though our mental health is challenged, and even though after many attempts we can’t break our stereotype, we as a generation know who we are and what we stand for. We are passionate and hard workers when given the tools to be so. We are not self-indulgent and lazy, in fact, we often care a lot more than past generations have, especially when it comes to activism and politics. Better yet, we're taking initiative and doing progressive things with the knowledge and insight we've been provided, especially when it comes to issues of racism, climate change, social awareness, and much more. As reported by Business Insider, nearly 90% of those who responded to a Yubo poll said that they support Black Lives Matter, an organization that fights against systemic racism and police brutality against Black Americans. Keep in mind that is solely a sliver of what we've accomplished. Bear with us as we are merely trying to figure out how to tackle the world we’ve been placed in. Give us a couple more years and watch what we are capable of. The future is in our hands.

Sources: https://growingleaders.com/blog/how-to-build-snowmen-from-a-snowflake-generation/ https://www.fa-mag.com/news/how-gen-x-parents-raised-gen-z-kids--different-than-millennials-50775.html https://www.ualberta.ca/folio/2020/01/millennials-and-gen-z-are-more-anxious-than-previous-generations-heres-why.html https://www.pewresearch.org/topics/generation-z/ https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/health-technology/cell-phones-teens-and-mental-health

SOCIAL ISSUES

| 17

B U T I M A C H E E R L E A D E R 18

SIPORA WEST'S MONTHLY MOVIE PIC

Image via amazon.com

But I’m A Cheerleader is Jamie Babbits’ quirky and satirical film debut that was released in 1999. The films’ protagonist is Megan (Natasha Lyonne), a cheerleader who is vegetarian, listens to Melissa Etheridge songs, and doesn’t enjoy kissing her boyfriend. Megan’s circle suspects that she is a lesbian, which is intolerable among their Christian family values. Thus, Megan is admitted to True Directions, a “conversion camp”, with intent to squash her homosexuality back into the closet. The True Directions program is filled with comical nods to traditional gender stereotypes. The girls wear pink and learn how to clean and how to sit like a lady, while the boys wear blue and are required to play football and fix cars. The film follows the five stages of True Directions conversion therapy, beginning with admitting that you’re a homosexual and culminating with a stimulated sexual lifestyle. The emotional core of the film centres around Megans’ budding romance with fellow True Directioner, Graham (Clea DuVall). But I’m A Cheerleader is not a scholarly societal commentary, nor a hilarious comedy blockbuster. However, I would categorize it as a cult classic due to its camp aesthetic and intrepid narrative. The film does not deal with the harrowing and inhumane aspects of conversion therapy, yet I don’t view that to be a shortcoming. In 1999, there were not many movies that depicted homosexuality in a favourable light, or that gave its LGBTQ+ characters a cheery ending. But I’m A Cheerleader is noteworthy for the non-judgemental, uplifting story it provides LGBTQ+ individuals.

THEY BOTH DIE AT THE END

BY ADAM SILVERA

ELLA'S BOOK OF

THE MONTH REVIEW BY ELLA IONESCU

Image via Goodreads The book you absolutely NEED to read this month is They Both Die at The End by Adam Silvera. If you are looking for a captivating but easy book to read that you can never put down - this book is perfect for you. Readers across many social media platforms such as ‘Tik Tok’ raved about this novel and, as a result, my curiosity eventually peaked to the point of giving in and purchasing a copy. The first thing you should know about this book is (spoiler):

Throughout this novel, I was moved and mesmerized by its

they really do both die at the end, I naively believed that the title

narrative and emotional power. I was unable to put this book

of the book wouldn’t actually affect the outcome of this book…

down while reading it and eventually, managed to finish the

don’t be like me. This book follows the story of two boys who get a

whole thing in two days while sobbing throughout. When I say

call from Death-Cast, an organization that informs people that

this, no, I don’t mean a couple of tears type of crying, I mean

they will die the day they receive a call from them, however, they

full-on ugly crying waking up with my eyes half swollen crying.

do not inform them with what time they will die or how. The

Throughout these 368 pages, I would think to myself “how

reader gets to see both their points of view as well as the people

would I feel if this were happening to me?”. The way the plot is

they come across. As a result, readers are able to really

written has you always wanted - no, needing to know more while

understand how the characters feel towards the situations they

being left at a cliffhanger every chapter, especially once you hit

are put through on their final day of living. Once the two boys,

the halfway mark. You feel as though you are really in the book

Rufus and Mateo, receive their calls from Death-Cast, they

with the way the characters' emotions are written and explained.

immediately begin to panic and attempt to organize a way to say

The character development both boys go through is

goodbye to their families, friends, and to plan out a successful last

absolutely amazing, whether it was coming out of their shells

day. Due to complications Rufus and Mateo come across while

while doing certain activities or becoming more caring and

saying their goodbyes to their loved ones, they are left to

understanding people, you can really notice the amazing and

download The Last Friend app: an application people download

undeniable differences in Rufus and Mateo’s personalities by

so that they do not have to spend their last day alive by

the end of the book. The only thing I disliked about this book is

themselves. The boys go through a series of adventures together,

how it ends; the plot and characters are so built up that you feel

exploring the city and learning more about each other as the book

as if you really know them so, once their fates finally play out,

carries on. Rufus and Mateo eventually grow close and develop

you are left with an empty (as cliché as that sounds) heart-

romantic feelings towards each other.

broken feeling. This book evokes that no time should be wasted on small disputes as we never know when it could be the end for us, come out of your shell while you still can as you never know what you’re missing out on.

Overall I would rate this book a 5/5 and definitely recommend that you read it as soon as possible. 19

WHITNEY WOLFE HERD: AN INSPIRATION TO ALL FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS BY GEORGIA POMOZOVA-MANN Whitney Wolfe Herd: businesswoman,

In 2012, at age 22, Wolfe Herd joined

girl-boss, and inspiration for all female

Hatch Labs in the early development of the

entrepreneurs.

dating

app

"Tinder".

After

becoming

As Whitney Wolfe Herd makes history by

acquainted with founder Sean Rad, she

taking dating-app Bumble public and onto

working alongside him, Justin Mateen, and

the USA stock market, she becomes one of

Chris

the only self-made female billionaires in

Throughout her two years working for the

history and is inspiring women around the

company, she was credited for her marketing

world to do the same. But how did she get to

skills, co-founding of the company, logo

where she is now?

creation, naming the app, and the fuelling of

Gulczynski

(among

others).

While attending Southern Methodist

Tinders popularity. With her bringing so

University, studying international relations,

much success to the app, it was clear she

and being an active member

the

would go far in the future. However, while

university’s division of sorority group Kappa

acting as vice-president of marketing, Wolfe

Kappa Gamma, Wolfe Herd was just getting

Herd left the team and, in 2014, filed a

started on her entrepreneurial journey. At

lawsuit against Tinder for sexual harassment

the age of 20, she launched her first

by her fellow coworkers. This is absolutely

entrepreneurial

bamboo-tote

significant towards her future endeavours, as

business with the goal of raising funds for

the case was settled for one-million dollars

places affected by the BP oil spill of 2010.

and Wolfe Herd became one of the few

During this time, she also worked with

women to be able to win against sexual

celebrity stylist Patrick Aufdenkamp on

harassment within both the world of

launching the non-profit organization “Help

business and a male-dominated society

Us Project”. The bags received nation-wide

itself. She set an example for women all

support, influencing her to create her next

around the world to raise their voices during

business

times of injustice, especially during those of

venture:

venture

with

Aufdenkamp:

clothing heart titled “Tender Heart” with a mission to raise awareness for human

Images via Bumble

sexual harassment and misogyny. Wolfe Herd was mistreated and abused to an

trafficking and fair trade. Despite her

extreme by some of the men whom she

already-established business ventures being

worked with, most notably accusing co-

fairly successful and well=known, her real

worker and former lover Justin Mateen of

journey as a businesswoman and female

calling her a plethora of different derogatory

entrepreneur was just getting started.

words. Furthermore, her status as cofounder of Tinder was quickly revoked upon working within the company as the men with whom she worked were said to have been opposed to having a 24-year-old woman have such a prominent role in the business. Nevertheless, she never let these situations stop her pursuit of greatness amidst a maledominated industry.

BUSINESS

Later in 2014, Wolfe Herd set out on her biggest mission yet: creating Bumble Inc. After finding herself stuck in a period of great anxiety and an inability to move from her home, she realizes how many women are isolated due to them being used to men making the first move. As a result, she finds inspiration in an app where women are the ones striking up conversations first. After working alongside a man name Andrew Andreev, the app is launched with 15 million conversations and 40 million matches within the first year. By 2021 you’ve likely heard of, if not used, the

Recently, Whitney Wolfe Herd made headlines

uber-popular dating-app Bumble. But what makes

after launching Bumble Inc. into the public stock

Wolfe Herd’s creation so different from others on

market and having it listed as part of the Nasdaq

the market? Female users who identify as

Composite. She celebrated this major success and

heterosexual are always required to make the first

milestone for both herself, Bumble Inc., and the

move - a game-changer in comparison to the

millions of people watching her successes; her $1.6

features of similar apps. This prevents men who

billion stake being proof of her achievements. With

only value women for their bodies/visual appeal

shares debuting at $43 each, they later jumped up

and use dating apps in attempts to coax women

by 63% on the first day, valuing the company at a

into sending them photos for money from sliding

market cap of $8.3 billion. For years now, she has

into the user’s messages, but it also allows a greater

been recognized as a successful businesswoman,

sense of control over whom they are interacting

humanitarian, and all-around inspiration for

with. However, aside from all the other interesting

women around the world. Her successes have

features, Bumble also offers a BFF Mode for users

proven that no matter what people may think, your

looking for a good friend, not some romantic

potential is what you make of it. With Forbes

interest (or hookup, of course). Their marketing

currently estimating her net worth at $1.5 billion,

tactics have seen great success, with product

she becomes the youngest female CEO to take her

placement in shows such as "Riverdale" and short

company public. With more and more women

ads by well-known social media influencers.

emerging successful in the world of business,

Overtime, Bumble Inc. has become a prominent

Wolfe

social media company with over 100 million users,

businesswomen of her kind; inspirations to all,

gained expansion to various ventures such as

especially young women faced with the uncertainty

career-networking app Bumble Bizz, and the

of their success within the world of business.

introduction of many unique and interesting features which are easily accessible within its app and website. Though there have been quite a few people and companies involved within the making and running of Bumble, Whitney Wolfe Herd has always acted as CEO and plays a major role within its operations.

Herd

joins

the

ranks

other

Sources: https://graziadaily.co.uk/life/in-the-news/whitney-wolfe-herd-bmbljustin-mateen/ https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/BMBL/key-statistics?p=BMBL https://www.businessinsider.com/meet-bumble-ceo-whitney-wolfeherd-net-worth-family-ipo-2020-9 https://ondutymagazine.com/how-she-made-it-whitney-wolfe-herdfounder-bumble/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2014/07/01/readthe-most-surprising-allegations-from-the-tinder-sexual-harassmentlawsuit/

BUSINESS

5 STOCK MARKET TIPS FOR YOUNG INVESTORS BY ELENA VLITAS

In today’s complex and competitive world, it is particularly important for youth to gain an understanding of personal finance as soon as possible. Getting a head start in the stock market, especially in uncertain times like these, may seem daunting to young investors. However, developing your understanding of the stock market and a personal portfolio strategy will set you up for success. Starting investing from a young age can help one be more financially prepared for major financial events, such as paying for university or a first car. When well-executed, the skill of stock market investing will be invaluable as it will be able to help you reach your financial goals throughout your life. Interested in starting investing in the stock market? Here are 5 tips to know to hit the ground running:

START SIMPLE AND DIVERSIFY

For new investors, one of the best strategies is to start with low-risk stocks. As you gain more understanding and

confidence with the stock market, you will be comfortable enough to begin investing in some riskier positions. What differentiates a low or high-risk investment? A low-risk investment is one in a company that has a proven track record of stability and can be expected to perform well in the future. A high-risk investment, however, is one with a company that does not have a proven track record, has a higher chance of underperformance, and/or is volatile. High-risk investments offer a chance of a higher rate of return on investments than low risk, which makes them appealing to investors. With this being said, stock market investing is a riskier type of investment when compared to other investment types like bonds or high yield savings accounts, even if a stock is considered “low risk”. As the saying goes, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” If one puts all their money into one stock and it goes down, a lot of money will be lost. Diversifying between different companies, industries and even investment types (like bonds) allows the investor to protect themselves from major losses and allow their portfolios to grow from the successes of a number of different companies.

BEWARE WAVES OF "HYPE"

Like any trend, those of the stock market go out of style. Investing in the stock market is a long-term game and

many people that try to beat the market to “get rich quick” often do not find success. This can be a result of numerous factors, though one of the most common is when shares prices get driven far above what the company is worth due to mass interest from the public. With this realization or recognized ability to make a profit, shareholders quickly sell off their shares, causing the share prices to crash. Warren Buffett, successful investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway advises, “If you aren’t thinking about holding a stock for 10 years, don’t even think about holding it for 10 minutes.” When making investments, think about what will stick around in the long term and will help change lives to avoid the volatility of short-term growth or penny stocks. Not only will this foster a successful portfolio and mindset, but help one avoid paying higher tax on short-term investments.

BUSINESS

DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH AND KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING

The purchase of each share of stock means buying a small piece of equity (ownership) in the company. In very

simple terms, if the company does well, so will the investor, but if the company underperforms, investors lose too. In the modern world, stock market opinions fly in from every which way and it can be hard to know whom to take advice from. While articles, TV programs, and (sometimes) social platforms can be valuable in providing details on how stocks may perform, they don’t always paint the full picture. Investors should always take a look at the current events, financials, and leadership of a company to ensure that it is a sound investment. Just a few questions one may seek to answer before investing are if the price is high or low compared to historical values, if the stock is at a high value due to a wave of hype, or if the stock is at a low enough price that a profit can be made. Know that any publicly traded stock is obligated to make its financial statements public and anyone can use them to understand if the company has enough money to meet its financial obligations, among other things. For all investors, it is important to know what company they are buying into and not just invest in a particular stock because others are. For example, one should not buy the stock of a company they have never heard of before just because they were told that it was doing well, as that leaves them vulnerable to the unknown and potential unforeseen losses. Do the due diligence of researching a stock from trustworthy sources to invest with confidence.

KNOW YOUR RISKS, BUT BE WILLING TO TAKE ONE

Before purchasing a stock, it is key to know the element of risk that comes along with it. Some stocks are riskier

than others so investors need to assess whether they can afford to take a loss. While one needs to be cautious when investing, as a young person the best time to take a risk is now. Many young people are at a peak point where they have their lives ahead of them, few financial commitments, and may be able to take a chance prior to the point in their life in which they must be more careful with their investments as they prepare for retirement. Investing can be tricky at times, so young investors who are new to the market should never be afraid to ask for guidance and insights from those they trust or seek the assistance of an investment professional so they can learn to create a plan that makes sense for them. So do it, take a chance, but be calculated and always remember to only take a risk with proper research.

DON'T PANIC, BE DISCIPLINED, AND ALWAYS STICK TO YOUR PLAN Always remember, stocks fluctuate up and down every day. Don’t panic when it goes down and don’t get overly

excited to sell when the price goes up. Emotionally based decisions are one of the most common mistakes new and even experienced investors can make. Unless there is a fundamental issue with the company, take a minute to assess the cause for the stock going down before making a final decision. If it’s a result of the market panicking or a shortterm issue that can be easily resolved, it may not make sense to sell. However, if the stock is grossly overvalued from the value of the company and its assets or is consistently underperforming, it may be time to consider selling. An investor should not be easily discouraged if one of their first few stocks doesn’t succeed as long as investments are being made with sound principles and in line with a well-articulated plan. Not every stock will be a winner and that’s ok, which is why diversification is key to balancing out losing stocks with winning ones. Discipline is one of the most important virtues an investor must-have. Without discipline, one can prematurely buy or sell based trigger overenthusiasm (bull market) or mass distrust in a stock (bear market), which will result in the subpar performance of one’s stock portfolio. The daily fluctuations can be concerning but one should trust the process as in most cases, wellresearched and financially sound investment will recover.

BUSINESS

Sassy

Teen Magazine

RUNNING A FASHION BUSINESS DURING COVID: FROM IN-STORE TO ONLINE BY LINDSAY FLEISHMAN

While some may have put their fancy dresses away during the temporary pause of events and “going out.”, others have resorted to wearing the same sweats and sweatshirt for a week straight. Yet, upcoming fashion designers like 15-yearold Jillian Fleishman have found this time as an opportunity to create new fashion statements. The pandemic has given a chance for creative minds to flourish with new ideas and trends for the 2020-2021 fashion

@jskyedesigns on Instagram

season. However, the most interesting part seems to be that all of these people are sharing their ideas with others Contrary to the secretive, exclusive techniques of high-end fashion companies, young designers in the making have instead

steered

toward

using

the

social

media-a

communicative outlet for presenting their ideas and learning from fellow artists around the world. The pandemic has not only let upcoming designers have time to find their skills, but it has opened people’s eyes towards using technology as a research method and tool for improving abilities. Two forms of media that Fleishman has been using are TikTok and Youtube; they’ve taught her new abilities such as sewing in zippers on jackets or hemming waistlines for sweatpants. At only 15 years old, she has prioritized and taken her time in quarantine to become an exceptional designer. Another unique aspect that COVID has brought to designers is where they sell their products, resulting in a significant shift from in-person marketing to online marketing. Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Youtube, and other social media platforms have risen to take over as the go-to marketplace for the new generation of shoppers. With the combination of quirky captions, eye-popping designs, and colourful graphics, designers have been better equipped with tools to grab the attention of new audiences interested in their wonderful designs COVID may have brought doubt to the future, but with creative minds and an online community by their side, designers have been able to look at the light and the positive opportunities to flourish and succeed as best as they can within an ever-growing world of fashion.

BUSINESS

VEGANIZING GIGI HADID'S SPICY PASTA BY ANASTASIA DIMAS A few months ago, Gigi Hadid posted about her go-to pasta recipe of which she swears by. After being shared across the internet, followers fell in love with the original recipe Gigi created. The original recipe is as follows: ¼ cup olive oil, 1 small clove of garlic, diced, ¼ green onion, ¼ cup tomato paste, ½ cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon vodka, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 225 grams of shells pasta, 1 tablespoon butter, ¼ cup parmesan cheese, basil chopped to serve and lastly, salt and pepper to taste. With Gigi's recipe including heavy cream, butter and parmesan cheese, it's heavy in dairy which isn’t vegan. Today, let's veganize it.

INGREDIENTS You will need: ½ cup olive oil, a small diced clove of garlic, ½ red onion, ⅓ cup tomato paste, 1 tbsp vodka, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 200 grams chickpea shelled pasta, 3 tbsp Organic Coconut Oil with Butter Flavor (Nutiva), approx. 7 basil leaves, salt and pepper, and ¼ cup oat milk.

METHOD 1. Chop and dice the red onion and garlic. 2. Sauté the red onion, salt and pepper, vodka, and garlic with the olive oil on a medium-sized skillet for approx. 5 minutes. Toss every couple of minutes to prevent uneven cooking. Try lifting the pan in circular motions to create a great crisp and ensure all ingredients are mixed well. 3. Boil a large pot with 5 cups of water and a pinch of salt. When the boiling point is reached, add in the pasta. Cook for 10-13 minutes with occasional stirring with a wooden spoon. 4. Slightly turn down the heat on the skillet and add in the red pepper flakes alongside the tomato paste. Move the paste towards the center point of the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes with occasional mixing. 5. Remove the pasta from the heat once ready, and rinse with a sieve. Once the water is removed, add in the Organic Coconut Oil with Butter Flavour and oat milk onto the pasta while it is still hot. Continue mixing until melted. 6. Once the skillet sauce is ready, add the sauce to the pasta in the large pot. Turn the heat back on low and stir until fully incorporated. 7. Pasta is ready to be served! Top with a few basil leaves to add extra flavour, and enjoy!

Images by Anastasia Dimas 25

MUSIC THE MOVIE: SIA’S HAZARDOUS ABLEISM AND NEPOTISM BY SOMA SAVAGAE

Sia recently debuted as a director with her musical drama, Music, but the internet would rather she stick to songwriting and singing and for good reasons. The misguided film tells the story of a newly sober Zu, played by Kate Hudson, as she is left as the sole guardian for her half-sister, Music who is on the autism spectrum, played by Maddie Zeigler, after their grandmother’s passing. Zu befriends their neighbour Ebo, portrayed by Leslie Odom Jr., after he comes to help when Music has a meltdown. The motion picture explores finding your voice and creating a family. Musical dance sequences that take place in Music’s mind pop up throughout the film, depicting how she views the world. Sia claims this is a film for the autistic community, but the strobing lights, overwhelming visuals, and harmful methods used to help someone having a meltdown say otherwise. One of the opening scenes is filled with intense lights and staggering visuals which can cause overstimulation, something people on the spectrum face. There is a scene where Music has a meltdown in a park and Zu uses a restraint method to combat this. Specifically, she uses the prone restraint method. According to press clippings and Government Accountability Office reports identified by VICE News, at least 20 children have died as a result of restraints since 2001. Although restraints have proved to be harmful and dangerous, Music portrays this method as loving. A scene like this misinforms the general public and could lead to caretakers of autistic people trying this method which in reality is very hurtful.

MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART

WWW.FRAMEMAG.COM | 20

When someone with autism is experiencing

When one Twitter user called out Sia for allowing

a meltdown, try keeping sensory items on

someone who is neurotypical to represent the

hand like noise-cancelling headphones, a

disabled community she replied much calmer and

weighted vest, stim toys, or guide them to a

collected by tweeting, “I actually tried working with

quiet, less stimulating environment. As people

a beautiful young girl who is non-verbal on the

who are not on the spectrum, we were able to

spectrum and she found it unpleasant and stressful.

easily find this information by listening to

So that’s why I cast Maddie.”

autistic people’s voices on platforms such as

If Sia wanted to cast an actor on the spectrum,

“TikTok” and “Instagram” where they are

she could have. By contrast, in January 2020, Loop,

putting out first-hand experiences and

an animated short film produced by Pixar

information so people have a better

Animation Studios, and distributed by Walt Disney

understanding of the challenges they face.

Studio Motion Pictures was released on Disney+.

With all of this noted, surely Sia could have

The short film stars a 13-year-old, non-verbal

listened to these individual’s voices in her

autistic girl named Renee. This character is voiced

three years of research for the film.

by Madison Bandy who, like her character, is

Perhaps this is a case of right intentions, wrong execution? We doubt it. When the autistic community took to

autistic and mostly non-speaking. When talking about the making of Loop, producer Michael Warch explained how they brought her on sight but

“Twitter” to express their concerns about the

quickly realized that with all the people on set and

movie, Sia responded by bullying the autistic

all the distractions, it was not the right environment

community online.

for her. The writer and director of the short, Erica

The actor who plays Music, Maddie

Milsom, discussed how they made accommodations

Zeigler, is neurotypical so her portrayal of the

and decided to record Madison in her home. This

character comes across as mocking,

way, she was comfortable and they were able to

stereotypical, and exaggerated. Several

capture her natural reactions and voice for the film.

autistic actors responded to tweets saying they

It is evident Sia did not try hard enough to

could have acted in the film on short notice.

accommodate the original actor because she was set

Twitter user @HelenAngel explained, “The fact of the matter is zero effort was made to include anyone who is actually autistic.” Sia’s immature and dodging response was “Maybe you’re just a bad actor.” This substandard, see-through excuse is just that: an excuse.

on including Maddie in this project. In an interview on the Australian TV program The Sunday Project, Sia admitted that what she was doing was ableism as well as nepotism saying, “I realized it wasn’t ableism. I mean, it is ableism I guess as well, but it’s actually nepotism because I can’t do a project without her [Ziegler]. I don’t want to. I wouldn’t make art if it didn’t include her.”

MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART

Maddie Zigler and Sia have a unique relationship. They first met after Sia had Maddie in her “Chandelier” music video after seeing her on the tv show Dance Moms. Maddie has since been in projects such as “Elastic Heart,” along with Shia LaBeouf, and performed live with her on tour and on the talk show The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Sia and Maddie have since grown so close that she is her official godmother. With the 27 year age difference, the singer has said she sees Maddie as a daughter figure and as a friend. Some may see the relationship is somewhat odd in the way that Sia seems overly dependent on Maddie. The songwriter is protective of her and has admitted to creating roles to “keep her safe.” Maddie’s mom, Melissa Gisoni, has talked about Sia quarantining with them, expressing how she loves it when they snuggle and watch movies in bed together. In Ziegler’s book, “The Maddie Diaries: A Memoir” she wrote on how Sia has stated, “If you didn’t have such a great family, I’d adopt you.” Sia has referred to Maddie as her “hero,” “dancing muse,” and her “surrogate daughter.” This dynamic between this adult and Maddie can give us deja vu to Maddie’s earlier years

On the other hand, Sia’s inability to work without Ziegler has now opened up the dancer to criticism for portraying Music. Sia has disclosed how Maddie was apprehensive to take on the role because she didn’t want to offend anyone on the autism spectrum and how “she cried on the first day of rehearsals and she was really scared and said, ‘I don’t want anyone to think that I’m making fun of them.’” In the end, Maddie is only 18 years old and filmed the movie at just 14. She was simply following the directions of a prominent authority figure in her life, and all accountability should go to Sia. Music the movie has already been released and despite people attempting to boycott the film, was nominated for a Golden Globe. We can only hope that Sia rethinks how she affects Maddie Zigler as well as the autistic community and educates herself with accurate information about this community through the backlash and tweets, so that her future projects spread awareness and aid the community she is trying to help, rather than cause harm.

in the spotlight with dance teacher Abby Lee Miller on the Lifetime show Dance Moms. Like Sia, Abby showed nepotism towards Maddie and relied on her for projects, though she instead did group dances and solos instead of music videos and movies. Nevertheless, Abby proved to have had a negative impact on Ziegler as it is said that they are no longer on speaking terms with each other. However, Sia’s relationship with Maddie has proven to be more positive than Abby’s. The songwriter has talked in the past about getting Maddie into therapy to help her with the negative impacts on her mental health that came from her time on Dance Moms. Furthermore, Sia has stated she was the one who once stopped Maddie from getting on a plane with 28

Harvey Weinstein.

MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART

Image via Wikepedia

LEDA AND THE SWAN: AN ANALYSIS

A sudden blow: the great wings beating still Above the staggering girl, her thighs caressed By the dark webs, her nape caught in his bill, He holds her helpless breast upon his breast. How can those terrified vague fingers push The feathered glory from her loosening thighs? And how can body, laid in that white rush, But feel the strange heart beating where it lies? A shudder in the loins engenders there The broken wall, the burning roof and tower And Agamemnon dead. Being so caught up, So mastered by the brute blood of the air, Did she put on his knowledge with his power

BY ALLISON MAK POEM BY WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS

Before the indifferent beak could let her drop?

Leda and the Swan” was written and rewritten many times by William Butler Yeats before finally appearing in this structure in his renowned collection, The Tower in 1928. The poem depicts a tale from Greek mythology in which Zeus assumes the form of a swan to seduce Leda, wife of Spartan king Tyndareus. From this union, Leda bore Helen of Troy, whose infidelity ignited the Trojan War. Before exploring the way Yeats used this subject to create meaning, I encourage you to take a quick look at the actual shape of the poem itself. There’s something disconcerting about it; the form of the sonnet is unsettling and appears to be hijacked. Yeats has surgically attached the Shakespearean sonnet, with its first two quatrains featuring an ABAB rhyme scheme, to the Petrarchan sonnet in the last six lines, which has an EFG EFG rhyme scheme. Additionally, the final rhyme of “up” and “drop” robs the final moment of any auditory closure. However, most notable of all is line 11, which appears slashed and split in two, leaving the final three lines dangling like Leda herself in the “indifferent beak” of the Swan. By carving out the poem into this format, Yeats commits a sort of violence on the sonnet form. This is not done for nothing, as the poet is attempting to enhance the vicious content of his work. Shakespearean sonnets usually tell stories of love. However, here, Yeats uses the format to describe what might be considered the exact opposite: an act of violent rape. By taking a look at successive versions of “Leda and the Swan”, it’s easy to notice the way Yeats’ attempts to amplify the volume of this violence. For example, in one version, the poem begins: A rush, a sudden wheel, and hovering still, The bird descends, her frail thighs pressed By the webbed toes, and that all-powerful bill Has laid her helpless face upon his breast. MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART |

The early version almost assumes Leda's

After the first two verses, come to the Volta, a

term for when a sonnet turns, and the questions

comparable to the more recent versions, which begin

or events posed in the first lines are answered. In

with the shock of “a sudden blow”. Zeus’ violation is

this case, after “the shudder”, we have the poet

vehemently emphasized, and emphasized too is

examining the consequences of the rape. “The

Leda’s—and the readers’—disorientation. “The great

broken wall, the burning roof and tower”, all

wings beating still”; how can wings be “still” if they’re

intimate that the rape of Leda not only caused but

beating? Caressed “by the dark webs'' gives a sense of

ensured the eventual destruction of Troy and the

how large the bird is, as not even the toes, but the

rise of Western history. A history that was born

webs between the toes are what’s caressing Leda. It’s

out of rape, war, and murder. “And Agamemnon

not until the last line of that verse that we finally get

dead”. Here we have Yeats’ own alteration to the

the subject, “he”. This gives the effect that everything

mythological history. As the story goes, Leda laid

was happening so fast that Leda couldn’t find her

two eggs from this encounter. One bore Helen

bearings, not until the gruesome act was already

and Pollux, demigods and children of Zeus. The

underway. The first quatrain of “Leda and the Swan”

other bore Castor and Clytemnestra, children of

is disturbing, setting the scene from Leda’s horrifying

Leda’s mortal husband, Tyndareus, whom she lay

point of view. Following, we have the second quatrain,

with the same night. By citing the death of

made up of two rhetorical questions, both of which

Agamemnon,

seem to ask the same thing. What could Leda do,

Clytemnestra as among the faded ramifications of

against the power of a God? How could she possibly

the rape, Yeats demonstrates the full effect of the

resist? How could she do anything but “feel the

trauma. Following, Yeats concludes the poem

strange heart beating where it lies?” These questions

with one final question. “Did she put on his

can be read in two ways. First, they can be read

knowledge with his power before the indifferent

rhetorically, which is to say, read them as saying she

beak could let her drop?” Did Leda glimpse the

obviously can't do anything, and such is the tragedy of

future she was creating, the chaos she was

the poem. However, I think Yeats invites us to read

inaugurating before the indifferent God flew

them literally, as well, which is to say “what can she

away?

acquiescence

the

Gods'

advances.

This

famously

killed

his

wife

do?”. Situating the poem at a fulcrum in history similar to that of 2021, we’re forced to look both at what we’re Situating at a fulcrum history This similar that of question 2021, we’re to particularly look both atrelevant what we’re coming out of the andpoem what we’re headingintowards. is atorelevant forforced any age, for coming out when of andthe what we’reof heading is a relevant question for any age, particularly relevant for Yeats' own, trauma Worldtowards. War OneThis must’ve come like a “sudden blow”. By posing questions of Yeats' own, when the trauma of World War One must’ve come like a “sudden blow”. By posing questions of possible resistance to this brutal act, but showing no resistance on the part of Leda, the readers themselves are possible this we brutal act, but showing resistance the part of Leda,both the from readers themselves called on resistance to imaginetohow resist oppression andnothe nature ofonresistance itself, a feminist andare a called on to imagine how we resist oppression and the nature of resistance itself, both from a feminist and political point of view. Depicting an encounter with the divine so savagely, the knowledge and the power ofa political point of view. poetry itself is called intoDepicting question. an encounter with the divine so savagely, the knowledge and the power of poetry itself is called into question.

Sources:

MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART

http://www.randomhouse.com/knopf/enewsletter/poetry05/06_paglia.html https://www.jstor.org/stable/3831884?&seq=1

CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50) Dr. Feely, a recognized longtime MD, suggests CeraVe 100% as one of the top mineral all-in-one sunscreens, with gentle ingredients, including the oil-free bonus. This sunscreen is a lightweight option that is recommended across the skincare world. Neutrogena® Sheer Zinc™ DryTouch 2 fl. oz. Sunscreen with Broad

HAVING FUN IN THE SUN WHILE STAYING SAFE

Spectrum SPF 50 This sunscreen is known as one of the most diverse sunscreens, protecting many different skin types. The Sheer Zinc formula is water-resistant, and

TOP 5 SUNSCREENS FOR 2021

contains many antioxidants that work for your skin, even while wearing makeup! Sun Bum Mineral Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 30

With the sunny weather approaching and the

A more natural option, this mineral

possible issues which may come with too much direct

sunscreen includes a slight tint for the

exposure to sunlight, let's take a look at the 5 top

on all skin tones. This chemical

sunscreens as recommended by multiple dermatologists, including the prominent Skincare By Hyram. Whether you’ll be swimming along the coast of Italy or tanning in your backyard, it is important to

perfect summer glow which works well sunscreen leaves a matte finish, which makes it all worth the price.

MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB

protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that

Famous for its smooth texture without

could cause skin damage. Don’t forget to take along

the white chalky consistency that you

your sunnies as well! Bring on the sun!

sunscreen aids in anti-aging and

BY ANASTASIA DIMAS

typically find in most sunscreens. This includes natural fruit extracts. MDSolarSciences is notorious for their zero animal cruelty policy and ensures all their products are vegan.

First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 This non-comedogenic and oil-free sunscreen will keep you in the sun all day long! Containing zinc-oxide, it uses an ultralight formula to add a perfect summer glow. A must-have for all the natural consumers as it is cruelty free and a staple for those with a more sensitive skin type.

Images via amazon.com

THE TRUTH BEHIND CANCEL CULTURE AND ITS TOXICITY BY MAKAILAH TORRES

“Nobody’s perfect.”. A phrase so simple, yet important and often

It may seem like this, but I’m not saying that we should stop

forgotten amongst Gen Z. Nowadays, there is a rather new concept of

holding people, businesses, brands, etc., accountable. What we need

“holding people accountable” used mainly by Gen Z is known as

to do as a generation is to realize that Cancel Culture is toxic and we

‘Cancel Culture'. Being as new as it is, the toxicity of it has been

must fix the way we execute and react to problematic people or their

building up over time and has blinded Gen Z from trying to take notice

mistakes. The issue is, once someone publicly makes a mistake, we

of how their way of cancelling people is more ineffective than

all pounce on them like a lion after its prey. It’s as if we want people

anything. Is online bullying really the best way to deal with people’s

to make mistakes just so we can have an excuse to bully or harass

imperfections? As a generation, how can we come together and

someone online. In a matter of seconds, there will be thousands of

educate others in a more positive way?

horrible tweets made about this person. They will receive nasty

In great detail, what is Cancel Culture? Gen Z likes to believe that all

messages on every platform such as death threats. Their comment

they are doing is “holding people accountable” for their actions and

section on every single app will be filled with angry or petty people

then simply moving on from the issue once the problematic person has

with nothing but ill intentions. It can even go as far as news articles

learned from their mistakes, but that’s not the case. What they’re really being written about what this person has said or done. This person doing is harshly cancelling someone until that person is left completely can’t escape the hate. No matter what app they go on, there will be broken and overwhelmed by the hate. When a person is being

some form of the hate left on their account for them to read. When

cancelled, it means that people aren’t willing to give them a chance to

explained in-depth, it makes it very clear and obvious that there

apologize or learn from their mistakes even if they’ve shown that they

needs to be changed when it comes to reacting to people’s mistakes

changed. It’s as if everyone has one chance and if you make one

on the internet. Our behaviour isn’t beneficial because a person

mistake, you will never be able to fully bounce back. Cancelling

who’s getting “cancelled” won’t be willing to listen to multiple people

someone isn’t a one-day process. If you’re lucky, it can take weeks or

who are being overly rude and hateful. We need to have a better

months for people to forgive and forget your problematic past.

approach when we’re talking to someone who’s made a mistake.

However, some people have to deal with their past mistakes for life

Everyone’s feelings are valid but, keep in mind that there’s a person

because others won’t let them catch a break. It’s become so bad to the

with real feelings behind every screen.

point where an influencer can post a sweet and innocent picture of

As a whole, Gen Z is very open about mental health. Not all, but

their dog and the comment section will be filled with nasty things

many of us, have at least one person in our lives whom we can go to

about the person, which is completely unrelated to the post. What’s

when things get difficult. For the most part, we’ve broken down the

most upsetting is that even if a person apologizes and owns up to their

stigma of mental illness because our generation has done a good job

actions, some people will think it’s “not genuine enough” even though

of being open and honest when it comes to our mental health. We

they were the ones asking for an apology in the first place. Whether the

love to preach about the importance of mental health and how we

person chooses to address the issue or not, they will never win because

should prioritize it however that's rather contradicting when we take

it’s impossible to please everyone.

part in activities such as Cancel Culture. We’re being extremely

If you’re having moments of doubt and are overwhelmed by

hypocritical due to the fact that Cancel Culture completely messes

suicidal thoughts, don’t hesitate to call the Canada Suicide Prevention

with people’s mental health and can send them into a downward

Service 800-273-8255. Help is always available, no matter who you are

spiral. In a way, taking part in cancelling someone goes hand in hand

or where you live.

with cyberbullying due to the fact that people are not usually respectful in any way when attempting to cancel someone because people approach the situation in a bully-like manner.

MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART

According to The Real-Life Effects of Cyberbullying on Children by

To most people reading this, it may be hard to visualize how

Sherri Gordon, the possible mental effects of cyberbullying include

something so simple was turned into a huge deal on the internet. If I’m

depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-harm, academic issues, and

being honest with you, I was just as shocked. There were news articles

suicidal thoughts. The article says, “When cyberbullying is ongoing,

written about this, TikTok videos made, tweets being shared, posts on

victims often relate to the world around them differently than others. For

“tea” pages on Instagram, and even other influencers themselves decided

many, life can feel hopeless and meaningless. They lose interest in things

to give out their own opinion on the situation. I’ve never seen something

they once enjoyed and spend less time interacting with family and

so little be blown out of proportion so big and so fast. If you were on

friends.” Just by leaving a single comment, you can severely negatively

social media at the time, you could not escape this scandal as it was being

impact someone’s self-confidence and self-worth. Tearing someone

talked about on every social media platform. Referring to the snail

down leads to higher levels of depression and, research states, around

situation, Dixie didn’t do anything racist, offensive, or problematic. Still,

93% of people who have been cyberbullied have shown signs of

the “scandal” got the exact same coverage as Shane’s, although what he

powerlessness and hopelessness. Some people take other routes and deal

did was far worse and severe than what Dixie did in every way possible.

with cyberbullying by physically hurting themselves, whether that is

Shouldn’t we focus on educating people who truly deserve it, rather than

participating in self-harm or even going as far as ending their life. Sadly,

creating unnecessary drama out of pure boredom? I’m not saying that

some people feel like it’s the only option when trying to escape from the

Dixie is a perfect person but, the amount of attention her “scandal” got

pain, the torture, or the hate around them. Cancel Culture is extremely

shouldn’t have been in the same realm as Shane’s or that of other truly

toxic this way, as the people attempting to cancel said person forget that

problematic people. We are wasting our time “holding people

the person they are tearing down has emotions as well.

accountable” on the wrong people.

In every scandal, people deserve to be held accountable. What people

Here’s my take on how we should change the way we “cancel”

seem to forget is that the severity differs for every single situation. For

someone. First, we need to get rid of death threats. Sending death threats

example, in June of 2020, old videos of Shane Dawson resurfaced the

to people online has become so normalized to the point where most

internet. These videos contained Shane saying racial slurs and doing

people send them without feeling guilty afterwards. This is a huge

blackface. Racism isn’t tolerated whatsoever, so this scandal blew up

problem because telling someone that they deserve to die is easily

immediately and took over the internet. Shane Dawson's racist and

triggering if the person receiving the threat has already had suicidal

problematic past was the hot topic on apps like Twitter, TikTok, and

thoughts before. Whether they’ve had suicidal thoughts or not, having

Instagram. People around the world were criticizing Shane and his past

people telling them that they don’t deserve to be alive is not a pleasant

choices. Everyone made sure to hold him accountable for his actions and

thing to hear and could easily lead them to believe that they don't deserve

it was clear that even if he did apologize, it’s up to each and every

to live although that is not the case. As stated before, people can develop

individual to make the choice if they want to accept his apology. The

suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and more from

backlash and criticism Shane got months ago and even today is deserved

comments like these. Furthermore, it’s okay to get upset at someone

because he said and did things that are extremely intolerable, offensive,

because everyone’s feelings are valid. But, if you choose to leave your

and racist.

opinion on their page, try your best to educate the person rather than

On the other hand, a more recent “scandal” including Dixie D’amelio

send hate. Hating isn't beneficial, instead leave something that stands

sent the internet into flames. In January of 2021, a youtube video was

out from the rest and is actually sincere and helpful for the person,

posted of Dixie eating a snail and proceeding to throw it up shortly after

maybe they will take it upon themselves to do some research and educate

and said she did not like the food in front of the chef. Like most

themselves on whatever the topic may be. After all, one thought-out and

scandals, viewers attempted to make a big deal out of a very small

sincere comment mixed in with 1,000 hate comments is more eye-

situation. Most people shamed Dixie for offending the chef by throwing

catching than you’d think. Another thing is that if you see a post and it

up the food he made for her. To Dixie’s defence, she thought trying the

makes you so upset to the point where you can’t even leave something

snail would be fun and new as she’s never had one before, but it resulted

other than hate, then take a second to cool off and simply scroll! It’s that

in her throwing the snail back up. Eating a snail isn’t that common and

simple. Leave it up to the people that are mature enough to have a civil

it’s rather gross to most people, so you can’t blame the girl for throwing it

conversation to help resolve the issue. If someone apologizes but you still

up, right? Dixie’s mom reminded people that Dixie throws up easily and

don’t want to accept their apology (which is valid), then come to a

that her throwing up wasn’t an evil way of telling her chef that his food

realization that things between the two of you won’t be the same and

isn’t excellent. As expected, most people weren’t taking it lightly and

unfollow them or scroll past their posts. Stop giving them attention!

went absolutely crazy about this situation all over the internet. Sources: https://www.verywellfamily.com/what-are-the-effects-of-cyberbullying-460558

All in all, Cancel Culture may be the right idea by “holding people accountable” but the way we execute our opinions on a person and their poor actions is the real issue. Educate, don’t hate. MEDIA, FASHION, AND ART |

THE IMPORTANCE OF A MORNING ROUTINE BY PEYTON VERHOEVEN Mornings; some of us love them, some of us don't. When I was little, mornings had always been something I dreaded. I just hated having to get out of bed and would often find myself repeatedly pressing snooze for as long as possible. I was not even close to being a morning person; a night owl through and through. Having said that, since the beginning of COVID lockdowns my perspective on mornings completely shifted. I learned about the importance of mornings and how having a strict routine in place always allows one to start their day off right. To sum it up in simple terms, your routine in the morning sets the tone for your day. What you do in the morning sets you up for a successful day and, not to get too carried away, it essentially sets you up for a successful life. Furthermore, morning routines decrease stress levels while increasing energy levels, allows one to form healthy habits, and improve one’s confidence. From my own personal experience, my regimen in the morning has significantly improved my physical and mental well-being while also being a huge driving factor in my daily productivity. I can't stress the importance of how amazing it is taking the time first thing when you wake up to focus on you, and only you. So you may be wondering where and how can I start to get my mornings on the right track? Well, down below I have listed my personal morning routine which continues to change every once in a while. I try to follow this routine as much as I can, to say the least, it has changed my life. Once again, not everyone's morning routine looks the same, alter it to fit your liking and needs.

Wake up and think of one thing you are grateful for or something you are looking forward to in the day.

Make your bed and quickly clean up your room.

Change out of your pyjamas and put on workout clothes and runners.

Put your hair up, splash cold water on your face, and brush your teeth.

#10

Drink a full glass of water.

#11

#5 #6

Meditate (Headspace is personally my favourite platform for this)

#12

Journal and write down a few small goals you want to achieve in the day. Also, read out loud some positive affirmations. Workout, more so just move your body! I switch between jogging on the treadmill, pilates, or stretching. The most important step, fuel up for the day! Have a whole and hearty breakfast, along with an iced coffee (of course). Do your skincare (one of my favourite parts of my regimen is using an ice roller to depuff my face from Amazon), brush your hair and put on some makeup.

Get dressed for the day.

Start your schoolwork, whether it's asynchronous, in person or virtual!

That's about it! It may seem daunting, and you might think that having a set of tasks repeated on a daily basis sounds redundant and boring, but trust me it's far from that. I highly suggest you try it out for a week, notice how you feel and watch your overall well-being improve greatly. 34

LIFESTYLE AND WELLNESS

THE ART OF PROCRASTINATION AND HOW TO AVOID IT BY LEILA DURANTE The Oxford Dictionary describes the word procrastination as the act

Avoiding distracting yourself from what’s important can’t be

of delaying something that you should do, usually because you do not

solved overnight. The only way to truly avoid procrastination is

want to do it. Everyone has been a victim to procrastination at least once

to PRACTICE. Practice makes perfect, right? One way to

in their life; whether it’s putting off homework or not cleaning your

“practice” getting rid of distractions could be to set timers to help

room because you would rather be doing anything else, we’ve all been

limit interruptions and increase time spent on school work. For

through it. However, despite the many distractions offered by our busy

example, set a 45-minute timer for homework, and then a 20-

and technology-filled world, there are always things you can do to avoid

minute timer for something you enjoy. Keeping a balance

the downward spiral and negative impacts that come as a result of

between the two is a healthy alternative to completely forgetting

dreadful procrastination. Let’s overcome the art of procrastination,

about the more tedious-yet-important task at hand. Repeating

together.

the timers will help you end up getting your work done in no

In most cases, we procrastinate on things we aren’t interested in;

time. Another way to help stop procrastination would be to try to

chores, school work, etc. Finding something to distract yourself with in

get a lot of the task done on the day it’s assigned to you; the

order to avoid tasks you don’t want to do can be destructive towards

information is fresh in your brain which will end up making the

your mental health and productivity as it slows down progress in projects

process a lot easier. Developing a proper alternative to

which leaves you being less productive. For example, one might love

procrastinating will reduce stress, help complete work on time,

painting in hopes of becoming a well-established artist one day. Since

and will be your key to success in the long run. Studies show that

painting brings this person so much joy, they may decide to use it as a

creating a new habit takes an average of 10 weeks, though you

way to distract themselves from completing their homework. However,

should work on keeping up your procrastination-free habits for

partaking in hobbies isn’t the only way procrastination can be caused;

even longer.

finding anything to distract yourself with can easily lead to

In the end, the only way to prevent procrastination is believing

procrastination. A popular example is the well-known and endless-void

you can do it. Having a negative mindset and saying things like,

caused by mindlessly scrolling through TikTok instead of completing

“I’m never going to get this done!”, is only going to encourage

more important tasks at hand. Oftentimes, not getting work done on

yourself into procrastinating. Preventing procrastination will be

time or at the last minute can lead to stress and feelings of negativity.

difficult but worth it in the end once you no longer find yourself

After half-an-hour of working on a project for school, you may feel like

cramming all of your work in the night before a due date. Don't

you’ve done enough already and decide to take a break by immersing

feel discouraged if you have a couple of slip-ups while attempting

yourself in one of your preferred hobbies, pass-times, or overall

to exterminate procrastination from your life, you are bound to

distractors. “Time flies by when you’re having fun” is the perfect way to

get distracted without even realizing it at the beginning of the

describe what happens once you decide to take a break from something

process. Remember to have a positive mindset, understand

you dread to do something you enjoy. Procrastination occurs by

limits, and get things done. Don’t let procrastination win.

stopping doing what’s important and replacing it with something to distract you. You may be wondering, why does procrastination take a toll on our mental health and stress levels? Well, when we feel stressed over an

Sources:

assignment, we tend to distract ourselves from completing the task at

hhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/science-and-

hand in hopes that these distractions will help reduce the worries being

sensibility/201510/stress-anxiety-and-procrastination

caused. When distracting ourselves from feeling stressed, we form the

https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-it-take-to-break-a-

“procrastination

habit#:~:text=Research%20from%202012%20looking%20at,from%2018%20to%

accumulation”

effect.

The

procrastination

accumulation effect occurs when we feel stress, put things off, and then

20254%20days.

stress over what we’ve left undone. In doing this, you leave more and more things left undone while procrastinating which results in feeling overwhelmed and uneasy; a violent cycle. Once you realize how procrastination is caused, you need to find healthy alternatives in order to avoid it. LIFESTYLE AND WELLNESS

HOW TO BE A NON-JUDGEMENTAL VEGAN BY ANASTASIA DIMAS When I was nine, I had the sudden urge to go vegan. I

Before you begin, come up with a plan for YOU.

look back and wish I had a guide telling me what the

Everyone is different, so take some time to make an action

building blocks were for a solid foundation and to know

plan. How much meat and dairy products are you REALLY

what the first step would be to take when transitioning into

consuming in a week? Take some time to think about who is

a vegan lifestyle. Being a vegan for six years, I’m going to

cooking your food. Are they willing to substitute some

take you through the top steps, tips, and things I wish I

meals for you, or is that something that will be on your plate

knew before starting my journey.

to take care of? Be prepared. If you tend to eat out quite a

DISCLAIMER: Always consult with your doctor first. The vegan diet may not work for some people due to

bit, you would be surprised to know just how many meals contain the small stuff- because yes, honey is not vegan.

deficiencies or health conditions. Before you make the

Don’t go vegan for the trend, go vegan for your own

decision, you should check your iron levels (amongst other

reasons and make sure that those reasons will get you

vitamins and nutrients) through a blood test. If you are

motivated and determined. Whether it's your friends in the

already lacking certain vitamins, find out how you are going

cafeteria or your parents and relatives at family gatherings,

to get your sources of protein, iron, calcium, or anything

know that chances are not everyone will agree with it.

you may be lacking as veganism requires different sources

People will have their judgements, so recognize truly why

to receive these nutrients. Always go with your doctor's

you are really going vegan. Don’t let the negativity in and

opinion and seek medical advice before making the switch.

understand that it's YOUR business, not theirs. Be strong

Going vegan is not suitable for all, and that's okay.

standing in your position and ask yourself, why am I

Firstly, understand that being a vegan is a process - a

REALLY doing this?

challenging one. For whatever reasons you may have had

Once you have built up your vegan diet, although it’s

the push, know that it is not all smoothie bowls and

great to encourage your friends, make sure to never judge

beautifully curated salads night and day. It takes a lot of

others and approach them with kindness when discussing

work to get to where you want to be, so make sure you

veganism. Understand that not everyone is suited for a

acknowledge that being vegan does not necessarily mean

vegan diet and the best way to inspire your friends is to lead

being healthy.

by example. Don’t shy away from telling them about the

Secondly, don’t be hard on yourself. Taking the first step

benefits, but also about the unspoken truths. Make sure not

is already halfway towards your goal. Keep in mind that

to glamorize veganism with just the great parts that are

there will be slip-ups and not every day will be perfect.

experienced years after your journey has begun.

Being a non-judgemental vegan means accepting that you

In conclusion, don’t sweat the small slip-ups and

will make mistakes, and that's okay. Start small. Although

approach the vegan discussion kindly with those around

going vegan cold turkey can sound amazing, consider trying

you. You would be surprised how far a tad of willpower and

Meatless Mondays or reducing your consumption in small

determination can take you. The decision may seem like a

amounts as it can be a great starting point to give you a taste

one-time self-agreement, but it is rather a collection of

of what going vegan fulltime requires. Going plant-based is

many small decisions you face on a daily basis. The answer

still incredible and does not require following a vegan diet

of whether you will continue pursuing always comes from

24/7. Don’t be hard on yourself because there will be days

within. Going vegan is a challenging journey, however, it

where you “cheat” as it’s all just part of the process. What’s

sure is a rewarding one.

important is being able to get back up again.

LIFESTYLE AND WELLNESS

TESTING VIRAL TIKTOK RECIPES REVIEWS AND IMAGES BY OLIVIA BUSTON AND TEIA NACCARATO

GIGI HADID SPICY VODKA PASTA Review: A dish that your entire family will love! The creamy, tomato sauce with an incredible flavour of garlic and vodka is perfect. Definitely a meal that will be made several more times and is great for fueling your bodies! Rating: 1000/10, amazing! Recipe:https://graziamagazine.com/articles/gigihadid-spicy-vodka-pasta-recipe/

NO-KNEAD BREAD Review: A super fluffy inside, and a thick and crunchy crust. Very delicious, especially when paired with one of the pasta dishes reviewed. Next time I will bake it for less time and possibly at a lower temperature, as the crust was a little darker than I had hoped. Bread is very temperamental and hard to make, but this recipe is fairly easy for any beginner. Rate: 7/10 Recipe: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMejjcbA5/

LIFESTYLE AND WELLNESS

BANANA-BLUEBERRY SMOOTHIE BOWL Review: This Banana-Blueberry smoothie bowl tasted just like ice cream! The texture and flavour were everything. It was refreshing and is a great start to the morning or even as a snack. The ingredients that went into it were healthy and nutritious as well, a bonus! Rate: 9/10 Recipe: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMej6rwQE/

FOUR-INGREDIENT BAGELS Review: These bagels were so easy to make and tasted great! They had a perfect texture being both fluffy and light. They could’ve been cooked a little longer for a crunchier shell but overall very tasty, especially for the very few ingredients needed. Rate: 9/10 Recipe: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMejrFj5F/

STRAWBERRY-BLUEBERRY STOVETOP OATMEAL Review: This oatmeal was a great way to start my day! The warm oats mixed with the fresh fruit was a perfect combo. I would definitely make this again considering how simple and fast it took to make! Rate: 10/10 Recipe: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMejMGVHT/ 38

LIFESTYLE AND WELLNESS

WRITERS FEATURED Natasha Bernstein Teia Buston Anastasia Dimas Leila Durante Lindsay Fleishman Ella Ionescu Allison Mak Olivia Naccarato Cadence Parsons Georgia Pomozova-Mann Nicole Sandels Soma Savage Makailah Torres Peyton Verhoeven Elena Vlitas Sipora Westreich Alyssa Zhang

THANK YOU... 39

FOR ALL THE GIRLS ISSUE 1 @FORALLTHEGIRLS.MAGAZINE FORALLTHEGIRLSMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM

DISCLAIMER: ALL IMAGES ARE NOT OUR OWN, ALL CREDITS GO TO THE ORIGINAL CREATORS. RESOURCES USED HAVE ALL BEEN SOURCED, WE DO NOT CLAIM ANY STATISTICS OUR OTHER INFORMATIVE RESOURCES AS OUR OWN. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR CREDIT, REMOVAL, ETC.