Impulse Magazine A/W 2021

impulse A/W 2021

Proud of Who? Discussing the lack of diversity at Pride

COP26

Protesting prevails in the digital age

Alexa Coyle Switching soccer for football

Brooke Combe Scotland’s Soul Sensation

Read more at www.impulsemag-online.com

Find us online @2021impulseMag @impulsemagazine21 @impulsemagazine @impulsemagazine2021

Editor’s Letter The concept of new beginnings is at the centre of the 20th issue of impulse magazine.

Every generation believes they can change the world. Our generation, Gen Z, is no stranger to this belief. A generation defined by financial crises, a social media boom, and the small matter of the pandemic. Time and time again, we see people of this generation going above and beyond to change the face of history, from Malala Yousafzai to Greta Thunberg.

Covid-19 is a generation defining point in history. It is a signal to create a massive change in society, to regrow from where we have been, to start afresh. In the last year, we have partaken in protests for Black Lives Matter, trans rights, safety for women, and to fix the climate crisis. We have also started new families, new careers, new relationships. We have discovered something new about ourselves, a new artist, a new tv series.

New beginnings doesn’t just relate to life after lockdown. It relates to the social and environmental rebirth we are finally starting to take seriously. Throughout this issue of impulse, I hope you are inspired. Whether that be to try something new or to help lead the fight for a fully equal and green Scotland.

Thank you,

Arran Proctor

impulse A/W 2021

Lifestyle 8

The Problem with Pride

Culture 20

Brooke Combe

10 A New Leash of Life

25 The Big Book Break

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26 How to Spotify Stalk Your Ex

Confessions of a Girl in Therapy

12 “Your Best Sexual Partner is Yourself”

28 Can RTD Save the BBC?

13 Okay, Boomer!

30 The Stage is Set

14 Edinburgh’s Top 10 Coffee Date Spots

31 Remedy to a Writer’s Heartbreak

16 Biceps Booze Balance 17 What is Home?

Current Affairs

Sport

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The Subtle Art of Being Pissed Off

44 New Queen of the Castle

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Educating Equality

37

Shifting the Burden

46 Why do Women Feel Uncomfortable in the Gym?

38

The Whole World in Our Hands

47 Football for All

40 Government Goes Green 42

The Imbalance of Immortalisation

48 The Daily Grind 49 Including the Excluded 50 Rise of the Falcon 52 Finding My Club

impulse magazine is produced by BA Journalism students from the School of Arts and Creative Industries, Edinburgh Napier University. The views and opinions within this publication are not necessarily those of Edinburgh Napier University.

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Maggie Chapman MSP

8 Pride’s long road ahead

28 Edinburgh’s Queer Skate Collective

Return of glory days for Doctor Who?

Meet the Team EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Arran Proctor DEPUTE EDITOR Emma Barton DESIGN EDITOR Sofia Villegas Navarro CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Seán McGill

SECTION EDITORS Lifestyle: Jessica Matthewson Culture: Emma Cooper-Raeburn Current Affairs: Thomas McCann Sport: Cameron Wanstall PRODUCTION EDITOR Robyn Goodare

ONLINE EDITOR Ally Dunne SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Niamh McCabe PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Niall Fancey GRAPHIC DESIGNER Wiktoria Orlicka

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The Problem with Pride

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It’s any queer kid’s dream to be met at the UK’s largest Pride festival with LGBT+ flags galore. Instead, I was met with a bunch of red flags when I made the trip to Manchester.

Words by Jessica Matthewson it to see couples of all genders holding hands in the crowd. We sang and danced, and in true Scottish fashion, partied on despite the weather. I’ll had been preparing for this Pride never forget that feeling. My over-roevent with my friends for months. manticised view of Pride.

Cut to the summer of 2021. I’m sat We had coordinated outfits, sorted tickets for club nights, and sched- on the train to Manchester surrounded uled a concert routine – right down by Instagram influencer-type gays. to toilet breaks. This obsessive plan- Anxious already, worried that my outning was due to my poor experience fits won’t be good enough, my pictures of Glasgow Pride, which I attended as won’t show my best angle, or I’ll spend a freshly out-of-the-closet 17-year-old too much money on vodka cranberwith no knowledge of the community ries. From a production value level, Manchester was I was now a part of. considerably supeI remember turnrior to Glasgow ing up to the event Pride. The gay without tickets, village lying parshocked that I’d allel to the canal been asked for one, was a homely kicking myself that little queer place I had covered my adorned with flags face in glitter for and fairy lights. nothing.

Victory I couldn’t quite struck when a fed up looking steward breathe when I told us there was was there, due a gap in the fence to the masses of to sneak through. people and the My friends and I biceps bulging sat on the steps of from tank tops, the Kelvingrove Art but it was nice to Museum, drinking see so many drag cans of caffeinated, sugary, alcoholic presenters, and hear gay anthems something-or-other. Oh, the joys of whilst navigating our way through. being young.

The stage was immense with headlinEventually, the syrupy, sickly con- ers such as Yungblud, Lucy Spraggan, coction gave us the courage to sneak Gabrielle, and my personal favourin, where we were met with the saddest ite, Sophie Ellis-Bextor. But, to be example of a Pride event I had ever honest, the only thing Murdered on seen. Lines of stalls giving out cheap the Dancefloor that weekend was the badges and free condoms. Rows upon true magic of Pride. rows of companies preaching their 170,000 people attended support for the LGBT+ community. Manchester Pride this year. A staggerI have to say, it was truly remarkable ing figure if you remember that Pride to see the Volkswagen logo in rainbow started as a riot. The Stonewall Riots, which took place in 1969, weren’t colours.

Quickly though, the cynic in me premeditated. It all began as a police disappeared. We ventured over to the raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar. small stage to watch Courtney Act. Marsha P. Johnson - a transgender There, I was plunged into the world of woman - is recognised as a leaddrag for the very first time. The warm ing figure in the protest. This fact is lights hit my face over the spitting mentioned a lot when individuals in Glasgow rain, and I squinted through the community exclude trans people

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I don’t need to buy rainbow bags, or clothes, or masks to show off my sexuality.

Right Sophie Ellis-Bextor performing at Manchester Pride 2021

from Pride. There would be no Pride without the work and dedication of the trans community. So, why was there not enough trans representation at Manchester Pride? Frankly, there were so many groups I couldn’t seem to locate in the sea of gay white men.

There’s also the obvious ‘Rainbow Capitalism’ that exists. Companies manage to profit by making the LGBT+ community into products and practically selling our souls back to us. As June rolls around every year, logos change to a rainbow version of their normal, lifeless selves - as an appreciation of their support to the community - and that is all. I don’t need to buy rainbow bags, or clothes, or masks to show off my sexuality. I just want mainstream culture to feel supportive all year round. I hope the insane amount of money I spent on Pride will be put to worthwhile charities, not only to the pockets of the Saturday line-up.

Pride is about connecting with everyone in the community. All genders, all sexualities, all races. All everything! It’s about accepting diversity and remembering what we are fighting for, and celebrating. Forgetting the capitalist intrusion and façade of social media.

I don’t like to feel lost in a community I’m told that I am a part of. A community that none of us chose to be in, yet in which we found true solace and acceptance. This is the time for a new beginning in Pride.

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A New Leash of Life Things can be ruff sometimes, but the friendship between owner and dog is the ulti-mutt one to have. Too much? No, but seriously, dog therapy is a real thing.

Words by Cara Blackhall

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ou may not think it’s true that dogs can provide you with therapy, but they can. It’s a different kind. I’m not talking about sitting opposite your puppy whilst they’re wearing glasses on a chair. I mean the comfort, love, and appreciation your puppy gives you. Your dog will provide you with boundless love, and will play a beneficial role in your life.

According to The Kennel Club figures, 39,266 French bulldog puppies were registered in 2020 - an extreme jump from the 227 that were registered in 2000. There is something addictive and comforting about dogs.

They have such an impact on our moods and how we feel.

Our friendships and family bonds are key to living a happy life, and the bond between owner and dog can fulfil that role. For those who live on their own, that connection is even more precious.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent, Mike Flynn said, “Especially for single or elderly people, animals can be very important.

Sometimes, it’s their only way to talk to someone from one day to the next.”

Everyday tasks that are needed to look after a puppy can work wonders for our mental health. The responsibility of making sure you take your dog for a walk every day is not only good for the pooch, but also means you get fresh air, and time to clear your thoughts.

Dog owner, Wendy Irvine said, “They need walked, no matter how you are feeling, whatever the weather, and getting out and walking is good for the soul.”

If you speak to a dog owner, they will tell you all of the aspects of having a dog that does wonders for their mental health. However, the increase in the number of dogs that were bought during Covid-19 could mean it’s the opposite for the pups.

The ‘dog therapy’ we all think we need in our life isn’t always possible with every puppy. A study from PLOS ONE showed that 90% of pet owners said that their animals helped them get through lockdowns, but there is another side to impulsively buying a pet.

Separation anxiety - a phrase worth emphasising. Dogs rely on their owners just as much as owners rely on their dogs. They want the cuddles, the attention, and the therapy. The companionship that a dog gets from their owner is extremely important. If they get used to you constantly being around, behavioural problems can

become an issue when you’re suddenly gone.

Dogs Trust found an 82% increase in reports of dogs whining or barking when those in their household were unable to pay them attention – you can imagine how much it can impact them if you’re out the house all day.

Mike Flynn said, “We’ve got people who bought pups in April 2020 that are now just going back to their office, so because it’s an adult dog, it’s never known a day in its life that there isn’t somebody in the house, and that is going to lead to other problems.

“There was an 134% increase in the number of people phoning us up saying ‘I’m having problems; I want to get rid of my dog.’”

Purchasing a puppy is not just about the cuddles. Purchasing a puppy is a commitment - a commitment worth sticking to. Of course, owning a puppy has its challenges. Not every responsibility is plain sailing, but if you make sure your animal best friend is happy and healthy, it will not go unnoticed.

Buying a dog might be the new therapy, or at least, a form of it.

They cherish, support, and love. The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘therapy’ as “the treatment of a physical problem or illness.”

Spend some valuable time with your canine companion, and you’ll be reminded that as long as they’re around, you’ll always have their unconditional support.

Everyday tasks that are needed to look after a puppy can work wonders for our mental health.

Left Pawsing for thought

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Confessions of a Girl in Therapy

Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka

This is not The Met Gala! So, why is it that therapy is made to be so mysterious? I might be breaking some rules, but I’m about to share how the past few months of exposing my deepest feelings to a stranger have felt.

Words by Ieva Ozola

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iving in a world in which Gen Z is called the depressed generation, you would think therapy is a given. I avoided that first email for too long.

So long, it took a trip to Germany, where my sister had to break me down like the Berlin Wall, until I finally pressed send.

Apparently, I suck at writing emails to therapists - ironic for a writer.

Finding the right professional-secret-keeper is as difficult as dating. You don’t have to trust everyone just because they’re breathing. Shop around until you find the

right fit for you. After all, you’re the one paying.

I’ve broken the ‘no using WhatsApp’ rule several times with my therapist (let’s call her Julia). Feel free to expose yourself for 50 minutes, but then pretend it never happened.

It goes something like this: “Hello, when could I book my next emotional breakdown?

Kind regards, Ieva.”

Thanks to Covid-19, I go to virtual therapy, and that comes with certain interruptions, most commonly Wi-Fi cutting out mid-confession. Don’t worry, I’ll re-enact my

Don’t worry, I’ll re-enact my emotional breakthrough once your connection improves.

emotional breakthrough once your connection improves. Often I have uninvited guests – my cats making an appearance, or flatmates eager for a cup of tea. Thankfully, to them hearing Latvian is like me trying to understand a drunken Scot.

I’ve forgotten about my Julia dates several times. Receiving a reminder 15 minutes before, still asleep, occasionally not alone, does not give much of a putting-my-life-back-together feeling.

Not to mention the untimely ‘I’m in therapy’ talk to have.

I’ll never forget the look on Julia’s face when I had lost my voice but continued with an hour’s monologue for the sake of my wellbeing. My mental health may be improving, but my physical health is slightly different.

Let me give you a sneak-peek inside the Met of mental health. There is no couch – only your bed and cuddly toy. It’s rarely ‘same time next week’ so start using reminders (I’d suggest setting it for more than 15 minutes before), and don’t expect big eureka moments. Therapy is an expensive roller-coaster ride - sometimes fun, often frustrating. The fun part is, surprisingly, homework. I’ve actually enjoyed getting extra assignments - is this what it feels like to be the teacher’s pet?

You get what I’m trying to do here, right? The whole ‘breaking the stigma’ thing. Therapy is useful, but it can be intimidating. Mental self-care is an intimate, personal experience. If you’re not ready, that’s okay. Find something that feels like therapy to you, whether it’s walking, personal rituals, or spending time with people you actually like.

For me, it’s getting a flat white and analysing my brain on paper.

There is life before and after you meet your Julia. It might sound like something from a coming-of-age movie, but live by your own rules. Do whatever the fuck you want! I know I’m definitely trying.

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“Your best sexual partner is yourself” What can you do when the government bans sex?

Even law abiding citizens can’t help being horny.

Words by Andrew Chung

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s I’m sure many people are aware, sex can be had in a plethora of positions: standing up, lying down, or bent over a (preferably clean) flat surface. Yet, somewhere along the way, we started naming and detailing each position to the minutiae, until each outstretched leg, cramped-up arm, and the exact degree at which our toes curl is accounted for. Sex shouldn’t be so pre-planned.

A brief peruse of sexthemed blogs, complete with illuminating diagrams, made it rather apparent that there’s a lack of creativity when it comes to naming sex positions. Women’s Health magazine came out with some bold, if not confusing, position names, with ‘The Pretzel Dip’, ‘The Butter Churner’, and ‘The Pinball Wizard’ among my favourites.

Frankly, if you need detailed diagrams and a bible-length explanation, maybe sex isn’t for you.

When Covid-19 hit, we all retreated inside. Unless you were shacked up

with a partner, all ‘butter churning’ had to come to a halt and we reluctantly returned to dipping our own pretzels. But humans can’t be contained for that long. People feel compelled to copulate on two-hour flights, as if a brief departure from the ground constitutes a coital crisis. In that regard, lockdown was doomed to fail.

The advice given at the beginning of the pandemic was that if your carnal urges could not be dissuaded, then sex should be performed with a mask on and mouthto-mouth kissing was a big no-no.

Scientists noted that Covid-19 wasn’t picky - it could be passed through sweat, saliva, and semen.

Unless we all wanted to invest in full body hazmat suits with crotch cut-outs, sex was off the table.

Being sequestered in our homes

Unless we all wanted to invest in full body hazmat suits with croch cut-outs, sex was off the table.

wasn’t too bad in some ways. We got time to breathe, to reflect, to grow.

Although general tensions were high, all the extra free time allowed us to explore ourselves both mentally and physically. People finally had an opportunity to come into themselves - some even came out to themselves.

Some bought a sex toy for the first time, and some of us managed to exhaust our ‘I should really get around to watching that’ list. However big or small, we all learned over lockdown.

RuPaul famously says, “If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?” This mantra of self-love applies while discussing ‘knowing’ our bodies as well.

If we aren’t in tune with ourselves and our bodies, how can we be expected to learn and understand someone else’s? It’s almost like a video game, in the way that you shouldn’t even be attempting multiplayer if you haven’t got to grips with single-player yet.

All these sex blogs and online gurus aren’t even that helpful. They peddle tips and tricks that often fall apart when put into practice. There’s not a single sex position that’s going to work for everyone, no hidden technique to make you a sex god, and no flavoured lubes that actually taste good. A tip we can all apply right now is to start opening our ears first, above other things. Because communication can be super sexy.

Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka

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OK,

BOOMER!

Unprotected sex is making a comeback! Why is it that after a period of societal distress, humans have the urge to rip off their clothes and make babies?

Words by Louise Allen

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ccording to statistics published by the NHS, after an initial dip in May, antenatal appointments were at a five-year high in the fourth quarter of 2020. Experts had been predicting a post-pandemic baby boom since Patient Zero. It’s happened before - after World War II, the Boxing Day tsunami, and Princess Diana’s death.

Lockdown allowed many to adjust to a slower pace of life. In the age of working from home, people had the opportunity to re-evaluate their circumstances.

Many may have found it to be the perfect time for them to have a baby. With the pubs shut, it’s possible people were just plain bored. For those cohabitating couples, after bingeing Tiger King and batch-baking banana bread, there was nothing else to do but have sex!

While we were all sitting at home playing board games with our families

and getting drunk with our friends on HouseParty, a naughty Snapchat was the closest a lot of people could get to ‘doing the deed.’ With all this pent-up frustration, it’s plausible that these sex-crazed lunatics were so eager to jump each other’s bones, that protection slipped the mind.

We all want something to celebrate.

After online birthday nights in and virtual Christmas dinners, people want to party without pixels. They want gender reveals and baby showers without delayed audio, or grandparents unable to turn their front cameras on. They want something good, and they deserve something good - and what’s better than chubby cheeks and that fresh baby smell?

Adversity grounds people. I hate to sound like the turning point in

a so-bad-it’s-good Hallmark film, but the pandemic reminded a lot of people how important family really is. Maybe this baby boom is down to people realising they want one of their own. Some may say it’s selfish to bring a child into an ugly world that is just beginning to heal for your own fulfillment, but who are we to shame people chasing a new beginning after hardship?

Could baby booms be credited to something much more primal? Are our most basic instincts triggered when we bear witness to death on a large scale? Perhaps people feel compelled to pro-create to account for the population that we have lost. After all, there is a Neanderthal in all of us.

Even when everything’s changing, nothing’s really changing at all. Humans will do as we always have done. We are that fundamental. So, here’s to the next generation, and let’s hope that I’ve not incited a onesie panic buy. Happy baby-making, folks!

For those cohabitating couples, after bingeing Tiger King and batchbaking banana bread, there was nothing else to do but have sex!

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Edinburgh’s Top 10 Coffee Date Spots “Let’s just get coffee and walk around town.”

Did you receive that dreaded message again? There are only so many coffee dates a girl can stand. Not all is lost. The answer to your problems is having a great coffee.

Fortitude Coffee Stockbridge – 66 Hamilton Pl, EH3 5AZ Opt for sit-in if you’re ready for that next step.

If not, it´s almost impossible to go wrong with a walk through Dean Village. Almost.

Throat Punch Coffee Company – 30 Dalry Rd, EH11 2BA The newest addition to my list. It can be a great excuse to see them again, and a place to discover whether they are a cat or a dog person.

Wellington Coffee – 33A George St, EH2 2HN For when ‘the walk’ is through Princes Street Gardens. Take the risk and make it a picnic date (obviously, with coffee involved).

Cairngorm Coffee Melville Place – 1 Melville Pl, EH3 7PR Ready for more?

Combine your coffee with a spicy grilled cheese. Hot tip: it’s close to Modern One for that dreamy museum date you’ve always wanted.

Machina Espresso – 2 Brougham Pl, EH3 9HW A coffee shop that holds a special place in my heart - don’t show it to just anyone.

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Words by Ieva Ozola Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka Williams & Johnson Coffee Co – Custom Lane, 1 Customs Wharf, EH6 6AL The exhausting bus trip for this magic potion is worth it (Can’t guarantee the same for your choice of company).

Artisan Roast Broughton Street – 57 Broughton St, EH1 3RJ The perfect place to start your specialty coffee journey together.

Lovecrumbs – 155 West Port, EH3 9DP Eager for sit-in, but scared they might refuse? Only the devil would say no to a cosy window seat!

Söderberg – 27 Simpson Loan, EH3 9GG The only spot where I’ll order a cardamom bun before coffee, it has spots all around Edinburgh. The Meadows is always a safe bet.

Cult Espresso – 104 Buccleuch St, EH8 9NG In my opinion, the best flat white in town.

It once kept me sane through a lifeless date.

Coffee’s great, but it doesn’t work miracles.

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Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka

Would the opening of pubs and clubs make the newfound gym bunny within me hop away? I needed time, but eventually, I found a place for fitness to thrive amid freedom.

Words by Seán McGill

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could have cried. Externally, the tears would have signified the sheer joy of being surrounded by pals once again with a crisp pint. Telling stories, singing songs, laughing at terrible patter. Internally, I was trying to hold back a rising tide of emotion that was far less jubilant. It took a while to find safe passage over those choppy waters, but now, the relationship I’ve formed between mind and body is tranquil.

Getting into fitness hit me out of nowhere. A year on, I remain unsure of why I awoke on that Tuesday morning with a fresh hobby, but I did. The devotion poured into my new pastime was to do just that, to pass the time, accommodated greatly by the monotony of lockdown restrictions.

I could cut out a sizeable chunk of the day by going on a run. My legs may only have carried me for a maximum of thirty minutes, though the hours of wheezing flat-backed on the front grass would see late morning become mid-afternoon in no time at all.

And then when gyms reopened, having cockily conquered cardio to such a degree that my delusions were yearning for a last-ditch Tokyo Olympics bid, I set upon a new challenge. Quickly, the incremental yet consistent progression that comes with weight training gave me a fresh facet of the fitness frenzy that I had single-mindedly enshrouded myself within.

Without the lure of the pub where stools lay unmoved, jukeboxes untouched - I went months without drinking, driven by a thirst to lift heavier and run faster. But as the country opened up, and stools once again screeched across sticky floors, and jukeboxes began to be illuminated by the push of a one-pound coin, my mind raced faster than my legs ever could.

Would too many Tennent’s tilt the trajectory of my lifting power in the opposite direction?

Would a Wednesday morning hangover mean I was squatting by the toilet instead of

squatting in the gym? Would a doner kebab on the way home (sweet chilli AND garlic mayo, if you’re wondering) see my progress evaporate just as quickly as I had devoured the salty, sticky sensation.

The answers to these questions weren’t initially apparent to me. Eventually, I could rebut each of them with a resounding ‘no’. A simple saying that immediately struck a chord with me was, “it’s not about what you do all of the time, it’s about what you do most of the time.”

A great thing about fitness is that you’re not on anyone’s time.

It’s about you. So go for a few drinks.

Spend the following day in bed fighting off the flashbacks of divulging thoughts you meant to keep in confinement. Then get back on the treadmill when you’re ready. Progress doesn’t disappear overnight, no matter how messy.

After the seclusion and isolation we’ve had to endure, it’s not dumbbells or marathons that provide us with true strength. True strength comes from embracing those around us, from forming connections, from doing the things that we love.

Everything in moderation? Not everything. Embracing, forming, doing – these aren’t things to be done in moderation. Binge on them to your heart’s content.

Would too many Tennent’s tilt the trajectory of my lifting power in the opposite direction?

Left Drinking and dumbbells can co-exist

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What is Home?

Scandinavia to Scotland isn’t the wildest journey ever travelled, but when I arrived in Edinburgh from Denmark, I couldn’t have felt further from home. Until I reconsidered what ‘home’ actually means.

Words by Tobias Nørgaard

the family farm, where my little sisters would harmonise songs of Adele in perfectly -sepa nowing the number of steps on therated triads.Does family make a home? staircase down to the local Lidl. “Here’s your key”, a girl said, handing me a Recognising the faces of the couple black plastic chip, clipped onto a red hanger. I living in the window across the courtyard.rolled my suitcase into the lift, pressed my key Sliding the credit card out of my black against the digital lock, and walked in. A long, leather wallet before tapping it on the bus as white painted hall with eight doors and yellow if I had never done anything else. Finally, I’d light falling from the ceiling. I held my breath. think, closing my eyes after collapsing intoOnce I entered my narrow, IKEA-furnished bed. Finally, I’m home. room, I sat down on the But what is home? bed with thoughts and Edinburgh has been feelings spinning faster and my ocial residence faster inside of me. Empty for the last few months. shelves, empty drawers, Home is where my empty hangers. It even mail is delivered. But smelled empty. o H spitalhome means some room clean. If bacteria thing dierent. It’s not can’t live there, people can’t an address line, it’s a either. Does comfort make a feeling. An invisible, home? unfathomable force ffree days prior, I’d screening you from found myself sitting in my the dangers and inse best friend’s garden, on a curities of the chaos perfect late August evening outside the walls. So with lled wine glasses. It how did I suddenly was one of those evenings shape that word in my where you grow into each mouth without travother, become closer than elling 10,608km to ever before. As the sun set, Denmark?

I had to go back to my Two months ago, I apartment, pack my clothes pushed a 21kg suit in the black suitcase. If we case in front of me didn’t embed ourselves into down Dalry Road from Haymarket. I was our environment, our belongings would have optimistic, I was curious. I imagined going no meaning other than their entirely practical out the same night for beers with my newvalue.Do possessions make a home? atmates, the rst of many good memories ffe rst few days, I felt terribly foreign to to come. My phone gave me directions. Justevery single part of Edinburgh. Everything a couple of hundred meters left.

Do people repelled me. It wasn’t right, or maybe I was make a home? wrong. But then I fell asleep, and then I woke My entire life in Denmark was woven into up, and it felt a little better. ffen I repeated my old street-level apartment in Aarhus.it, repeated it, repeated it, and suddenly – one It was hanging on the wall, in the form of day – I woke up without remembering what polaroid photographs of Julie, my girlfriend.that rst day was like. ffrough a constant It was on my bookshelves where my friends’ exchange between my surroundings and my favourite reads lay. It was standing in thefeelings, I’d become a part of this place, and corner in the shape of my electric piano andthis place had become a part of me. guitar, synonymous with my upbringing on A home.

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An invisible, unfathomable force screening you from the dangers and insecurities of the chaos outside the walls.

Tobias’ arrival in Edinburgh

3, 5A Sciennes, Newington, Edinburgh EH9 1NH Open Wednesday - Sunday

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“I still don’t think it’s sunk in, that I’m actually where I am.”

Brooke Combe has found her voice. Not just in becoming Scotland’s breakout artist of 2021, but in opening up about her feelings, calling out inequality in the industry, and growing into her identity.

Words by Seán McGill Pictures by Niall Fancey

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Mate, I’m knackered.” And no wonder. Brooke Combe had barely been back in her family home for 12 hours before she’d hauled herself out of her childhood bedroom, packed a Fred Perry bag full of funky jackets and signature sunglasses, and sat herself down in my embarrassingly untidy car.

A week of her first gigs down south has been exhilarating, but exhausting.

Her new work base, the great music city of Liverpool, acts as a hub of creativity and activity for the 22-year-old.

With just one day at home ahead of a hectic touring schedule, she justifiably could have spent her fleeting free time enjoying the sweet bliss of solitude.

Instead, she’s talking to me.

“I’ve always kind of been like that.

I’m a people person, you know what I mean?”, she tells me as I marvel at her ability to converse with anyone, anywhere.

Despite the sleep deprivation, Combe still shines. Having known her for years, I see the same air of humility and self-assurance that I have become accustomed to. Now though, there’s a trait more elusive. Intangible, almost.

She’s a star.

Lockdown caused many of our lives to slow down, as normality evaporated and confinement reigned. Now, out the other side, Combe’s life has changed entirely, making her mark in the music scene.

“Before Covid, I just wasn’t a singer.

I hadn’t recorded any tunes. It was all about doing covers, and that served a purpose because doing a Joel Corry cover kicked everything off,” she says.

“I had no confidence. I wasn’t as smart at writing lyrics. I didn’t really analyse or research music that much.

Now, I feel like there’s a whole other side of me.”

Originally, the idea of sharing her musical talents on stage made Combe tremble.

Imagine then, telling that girl she’d spend the day the country’s restrictions were lifted headlining Glasgow’s iconic King Tut’s, to a sold-out crowd, in her first ever live performance.

“That whole morning, I had butterflies. ‘Is this going to be good?’

‘How are my pals going to see me?’

My pals hadn’t really seen me in that professional way before.

“From soundcheck to the gig, I hate that delay. My stomach’s just churning, ready to go. But going on stage, seeing everyone just screaming for me, I felt untouchable.”

The madness truly erupted when Combe’s cover of Scotland’s unofficial

Euros anthem Yes Sir, I Can Boogie exploded on social media, racking up almost 1.5 million views on Twitter alone. Interviews with STV, Sky Sports, and This Morning quickly followed, all because of a cover of an 80s disco hit after a game of football.

Being a viral sensation makes you a hot commodity, and she was swiftly snapped up

by Island Records, the company that represents such powerhouses of the industry as Ariana Grande, Drake, and Amy Winehouse – one of Combe’s biggest inspirations.

“Being signed with them, that’s probably one of the biggest things that will ever happen to me. Like, that’s your dream, eh? As a singer, you want a record deal.

“It’s still so surreal. The opportunities that come with being signed with a force like them, and the people I’m working with, they’re just amazing.

“I was in college dreaming about getting a record deal. For a lot of young singers, especially in Scotland, it feels like something really, really far away. I still don’t think it’s sunk in,

“If you feel a certain way, really feel it and it makes for a boss tune at the end of it.”

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that I’m actually where I am.”

With Combe fresh off winning Best Breakthrough Female at the Scottish Music Awards, ome may assume that fulfilling your dreams means that angst and anxiety are no longer barriers. Behind Combe’s deep brown eyes, you see a mind that is always turning. Content yet cautious. Present yet pensive.

“During lockdown, a lot of people had to spend time on their own.

Everybody struggled, everybody dealt with that in different ways. I was having a rough time, but it matured me massively... I realised there’s more to life than being sad. But it’s something I’m dealing with because I am only 22.

“I think we’re really quick to shut down the bad feelings we have. That’s something we don’t really delve into enough, and that’s something I’ve really done over the past year. If you feel a certain way, really feel it - and it makes for a boss tune at the end of it.”

“Boss” tunes run throughout the artist’s fledgling songbook, and it’s one she’s keen to share. As we drive

in search of coffee to kickstart our day, my attention is taken by Combe’s enthusiasm and insight into her own artistic headspace as her music plays from my shoddy speakers.

She pours over the lyrics of debut single Are You With Me? She gushes over the technical gems in latest release Impress You. Without being remotely obnoxious, it’s evident that Combe loves the music she makes.

“I feel like, as a young, Scottish, mixed-race artist, there’s a massive gap in the market. I’m hoping I’m bringing people music they’ve not really heard before. It’s hard to categorise, because my tunes are all so different, but I guess the one thing that connects them all is that soulful voice.

Soul music brings people together, and that’s what I love about it.”

Although her overarching sound remains ambiguous, Combe finds herself in the male-dominated indie scene, a state of play that frustrates the singer.

“I think it’s quite unbelievable to look at given the number of legendary women there are in music. Modern

day you’ve got Beyoncé, Rihanna, Ariana, but I’m talking Tina Turner, and Aretha, and Whitney, and Amy. These are massive, massive names, and I honestly feel like in the indie genre, there just isn’t that.

“If I’m in a place where I can open up opportunities for other people, I’m going to take it because I would have loved that for myself.”

“We’ll get there, and it’s definitely heading in the right direction, but I just don’t know how long it’s going to take for these really big names to come and take you by storm. Brooke Combe might be one of them…might be.”

With coffees collected, we head to Combe’s home for a more comfortable chat. Immaculate inside, we’re greeted by Ronnie and Freddie, two dogs with differing personalities. The former, boundlessly energetic with effortless charisma. The latter, tame and relaxed, taking in the world around him with composed focus.

They embody so much of both the on and off-stage persona displayed by their loving owner.

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“I want to pay respect to my mum and my gran. I want to pay respect to Africa because it’s a bloody cool place.”

Emerging Artists Rose Gray

Tallulah Rose

Words by Niamh McCabe

Words by Niall Fancey

A superstar in the making, Rose Gray has come out of lockdown with her first mixtape, a supporting gig for Tom Grennan, and the beginnings of a strong career. The London-based singer released Dancing, Drinking, Talking, Thinking in January 2021.

Although Gray has been in the music industry for years, her most recent release, she says, best describes her.

I like to categorise my life through the music I listen to. Every song brings back memories and Gray’s music just reminds me of lockdown beautifully.

Her 90s brit-pop revival music is lyrically divine and skilfully composed.

Gray is the nostalgic hidden gem that we have all been waiting for.

Edinburgh talent Tallulah Rose is one of the few people who cherished lockdown and came out of it better than ever. Her debut single, Jezebel Boots, and EP, Rise, were postponed by the pandemic, but Rose used the time to “crystalise the arrangements” and is thrilled at the positive reception since its release this summer.

Despite being only 19, Tallulah is well prepared for her upcoming career.

The singer-songwriter describes her debut projects as “dreamlike neo-soul” with themes of healing and growing.

Gentle instrumentation and vocals are interspersed with energetic bursts of saxophone and the occasional guitar solo, creating a sunny and playful atmosphere evocative of afternoons in the myriad cafes of Edinburgh or Amsterdam.

some well-earned rest, it’s Combe herself who drifts onto the topic of the future. A future full of so much possibility it could be overwhelming. For Combe, grounded and limitless, the unknown soothes her.

“It almost feels like I’ve shed this skin. I look back at pre-Covid me, and I just had no idea what was coming.

Even now, I can’t anticipate what’s going to happen next. I just have a good feeling. I’m discovering a new side of myself and I’m loving every minute of it.”

Brooke

on and make a bit of a statement with.

Even for me and my family, it’s something I want to get out there. I want to pay respect to my mum and my gran. I want to pay respect to Africa because it’s a bloody cool place.”

This desire to speak up and grapple with social injustice is indicative of Combe’s personal evolution.

Growing as an artist, as a performer, as a woman, has led her to maturity beyond her years and a purpose beyond her occupation.

A powerful voice is a route to success, but a powerful mind is a route to change.

As I get set to leave and give her

Tallulah

A persona that is ever-changing as the young singer encounters new experiences on a daily basis. Previously, I knew that Combe had struggled to discuss race-related issues with her usual unwavering confidence.

I sensed that, as life had altered so enormously, she had discovered greater conviction.

“I think it’s such an important message and my worry is going about it the wrong way sometimes. I feel like I didn’t talk about it that much because, being honest, I wasn’t that in touch with my black side. I grew up in a relatively white world.

I went to a school with mostly white people.

“It’s something I really want to work

Rose

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The Big Book Break 200 million print books were sold in 2020 – the highest level of sales since 2012. With lockdown leading the world to rediscover an oldfashioned hobby, how does the growth in screen time correlate with this surge? The answer, of course, is TikTok.

Words by Emma McAndrew

A

fter years of failing to complete an entire book, the world that replaced this love in my life happens to be the one to reignite it. It appears I’m not the only one emerging from a reading rut, as book sales have reached an eight-year peak. Although social media is to blame for crushing my inner bookworm, it was a popular new platform that helped me revive it.

I was your typical Jacqueline Wilson superfan as a child and spent hours upon hours re-reading Roald Dahl’s masterpieces. An assortment of works proudly filled my bookshelf, awaiting regular revisits and new additions. But after ten plus years of dedicating time to reading, dust began to gather on my assortment of titles. Technology was to blame.

Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat – I would not say that I was obsessed with these platforms, but they undoubtedly overtook reading in terms of how much time I spent on them throughout my teens. Then along came TikTok – the short video sharing app providing us with an eternity of entertainment.

With 3.7 million users in the UK scrolling through TikTok for nearly an hour every day, the platform was a saviour for many of us during lockdown.

Just how much of that “pointless scrolling” was actually pointless? For me, and legions of others, not as much

as you would think, as a new trend new reads, and connect with fellow is promoting a rise in reading. bookworms.

Between the dance routines and When we’re not being whisked away skit videos, an all-inclusive book to wonderous worlds and trying to club appears constantly on the app. crack the latest murder mystery, you Forget Berries and Cream and Savage will most likely find us in our newLove, #BookTok is reportedly gathfound haven – the #BookTok section ering 5.8 billion views. of Waterstones.

Sharing book recThe revamped corner ommendations and of the store is now posting reviews is all devoted solely to sell part of this new craze, books recommended which appears to be by the hashtag, and it’s pushing the publishclearly having an effect ing world to release on their popularity old classics and inspire The number of with the general public. a whole new generaviews #BookTok Over 1,500 copies of tion of readers. reportedly received Madeline Miller’s “The A video titled as of October 2021 Songs of Achilles” were “Books To Help sold across the UK in You Reach Your Full a single week following Potential” introduced me to litits recognition on #BookTok. That’s erature surrounding success and a 240% sales increase from the same manifestation. Suddenly, I was week a year prior. The hashtag devoted aspiring to be the next girl boss with to the romantic novel exploring the an array of mind-altering works Greek Heroic era racked up 22 million quickly added to my basket. “Stand views on the platform. If you’re not Alone Romance Novels You Need” already on the bandwagon, I would was next, and immediately, I was strongly recommend it. invested in the love lives of fictional From ancient Greece to historical characters who were vividly alive in Hollywood, #BookTok advertises the my head. ability to travel across the world from My habit of blankly browsing the the comfort of our homes. It lets us web is gone. My days are no longer experience extinct time periods and spent prioritising notifications and befriend those who are works of ficgetting lost down digital rabbit tion. It allows us to escape reality, even holes. Social media is now used if only for an afternoon. to aid my new pastime, research

5.8 billion

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HOW TO

Spotify Stalk your Ex Some may use Spotify solely to stream their favourite songs. Me? I used it as a window into my ex’s heart, which in turn, healed my own.

Words by Jessica Matthewson

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1. Dissecting Each Song This little experiment had me imagining exactly what it must be like to be the unfortunate ex of any great artist.

Hearing exactly how the breakup felt through their eyes and finding yourself positioned as the villain. I began to scrutinise each song, line by line, like a crazed conspiracy theorist. A tune ingrained in my mind was Moon Song

by Phoebe Bridgers, one of the most lyrically cut-throat tracks in the indie artist’s repertoire. This one hurt especially because the moon had always been a symbol of our relationship. Except, I guess, the moon doesn’t leave you on a random Thursday in September. This step requires some real analytical thinking, and no idea is too out there. If I want to believe that each line of a song is related to my relationship, then hey, let me live!

brutal breakup that lasted about the same time as Joe Jonas’ infamous 27-second dumping with Taylor Swift. With all my items stuffed in a sad, little Tesco bag, and one last look before she left the door, I was officially a single woman once again.

Now, I saw it coming, let it be known. I’d spent the morning dramatically crying to a breakup playlist that I had already made, wearing the hoodie she gave me in the first week.

I looked through our nine months’ worth of pictures and videos, trying to place the exact moment it all went wrong. Each fake smile after a fight, it all seemed pathetic now.

The next morning, I woke up, expecting a text that, of course, wasn’t there. I put the necklace she got me around my neck, a little too tightly, and opened my laptop to play the breakup playlist once again. I looked at my friend activity, and there was her name with the blue circle indicating she was online. My heart dropped, 2. Creating a Dialogue realising life was still carrying on for her. Life without me. I clicked on The next step is all about having a her page and was met with a breakup playlist of her own. Using two fingers, sufficient narcissistic trait to believe I scrolled down an hour-long list of that your ex might be listening to the exact same songs you’ve been playsongs that my twisted mind related to me and, from there, I was officially ing. In that crazy way, you can have a obsessed.

conversation. If I listened to Hello by Adele, then she would play Goodbye My Lover by James Blunt. Or when I played Forever by Lewis Capaldi, the reply that came through was Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish. To those who say

childish, I would retort: genius. Breakups are hard because you lose a best friend. The constant conversation you have with a lover, each intimate detail of your day that gets shared, suddenly has nowhere to go. Allowing each other access to still hear what we both had to say gave me a certain peace. I was still very much a prevalent thought.

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3. Getting Angry The feeling of pure hatred is inevitable. Come on, you’ve just had an organ crushed by the hands of Someone You Loved. Who else would you rather have by your side during this awful time than Beyoncé? If my ex listened to Queen B’s Don’t Hurt Yourself one more time, she probably would have ended up hurting herself. I’d say a burst eardrum at least. But two can play at that game, and I was seeing Red. My anthem morning, day, and night was We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together by Taylor Swift. Funnily enough, I didn’t mean it, and if it came down to it, I’d be jumping into a blue Cadillac and riding off into the sunset with her. It became increasingly clear that this might be a dangerous idea, and knowing the anger we were both feeling left me on empty. The songs weren’t backed up with a note, so I was forced to write my own conclusions.

to help me move on, rather than a serious offence. I wasn’t turning up to her door with a boombox playing each song from the playlist...I don’t even own a boombox. After a couple days of watching the playlist grow, with bags under my eyes and caffeine-induced shakes, I came to the realisation that, perhaps, this was just a playlist. A collection of songs that Somebody That I Used To Know was enjoying at the moment.

“I began to scrutinise each song, line by line, like a crazed conspiracy theorist. “

4. Confusing The Words The ability to keep track of someone’s Spotify activity provides an unfair peek through the window to their heart. I’m shying away from the word ‘stalking’ because what I was doing was a bit of fun

5. Finding Peace

The time between the once-frequent checks of my friend activity began to lengthen.

One Friday afternoon, I played Landslide by Fleetwood Mac before unfollowing my ex on Spotify altogether.

I paused the growing obsession and pressed play on my fresh start. I recently asked her what song she’d want me to hear before I stopped checking in on her listening habits.

She answered Pink Light by Muna. A song about moving on and letting go.

Breakups are the worst. It’s no lie that the moving on period lasts longer than the falling in love part.

Throughout my relationship, music connected us. We had playlists for each other, songs for every occasion - dancing, cooking, or simply being happy. I like that music was the last thing that allowed us to say goodbye.

Scan me for Jess’ breakup playlist!

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Can RTD Save the BBC

???

Russell T Davies is the talented TV maestro tasked with lifting Doctor Who to the standard he once set. More importantly though, he may be the key to ensuring the BBC meets the standards it once set.

Words by Gregor McRae

I

t was just after tea-time on a Spring 2005 evening when my five-yearold self ’s mind was blown. I’d just watched Rose, a regular shop girl from London, being whisked off her feet by a mysterious alien to travel across time and space. Having adventures, battling monsters, saving planets. It was only the first episode of the revived series of Doctor Who, and I was already completely hooked.

Russell T Davies, the man behind the rebooted show, wanted to create event television that whole families would sit down to watch every weekend. Talking from childhood experience, he succeeded. It was the talk of my primary school after each new episode. Later in the week, I’d excitedly discuss the latest instalment with my grandad when he came round for tea. It was one of those rare programmes with a real cross-generational appeal.

Davies had successfully taken a cheesy, cheap, cult sci-fi show from yesteryear and turned it into a cultural phenomenon. It had big ratings and rave reviews, but it was also so much more than that.

He had created a drama with relatable, likeable, flawed, and well-rounded characters that reflected people in modern Britain. Characters firmly rooted in reality, despite the outer space setting. Rose was a young working-class girl from a council estate.

Martha was a medical student trying to pass exams while also dealing with family problems. Donna was a gobby but loveable woman trying to find a job during a recession. Real, relatable people.

Through Davies’ writing, the show also taught its often young audience valuable life lessons without being patronising. It was unashamedly antiwar, with the Doctor being written as a pacifist due to the horrors he had witnessed and taken part in previously. The mood of the nation was reflected when the New Labour government of the time and the invasion of Iraq were satirically represented by horrific green farting aliens inhabiting Downing Street that wanted to start an intergalactic war, because of “weapons of mass destruction” that didn’t exist. I’d love to see what creatures Davies would create to represent the current bunch in charge of the UK. Other episodes during Davies’ tenure in charge of the show addressed topics such as racism, homophobia,

bullying, religion, slavery, and sexism.

There was open discussion about - and representation of - various sexualities, races, and backgrounds. Quite the feat for a family show in the mid-2000s.

This line from Rose in the season one finale, brilliantly performed by Billie Piper, encapsulates the overall message the show was aiming to get across.

“You don’t just give up. You don’t just let things happen. You make a stand. You say no. You have the guts to do what’s right when everyone else runs away.”

It was recently announced that Davies, or “RTD” as fans affectionately refer to him, will return as show-runner of Doctor Who in 2022, beginning a new era more than a decade after he left. Since his departure, the show has steadily lost viewers.

During his time away, Davies’ reputation has gone from strength to strength. He created the critically acclaimed show Years and Years about an ordinary English family trying to survive a dystopia in the not-too-distant future, as well as the mega hit It’s a Sin, an emotional series loosely based on his experiences as a gay man during the AIDs crisis in the 1980s.

In recent years, the BBC has been constantly looking over its shoulder

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at the increasingly right-wing government it is supposed to be independent from, desperately trying to appease it due to fears the license fee, or the corporation itself, could be scrapped.

Ridiculous examples of this in recent years includes bosses telling off presenter Naga Munchetty for sharing her experience of racism, yet refusing to discipline a white reporter who said the N-word uncensored in a report, despite an outcry from prominent black staff members in the BBC. Staff have also reportedly been warned that a new policy means attending anti-racism demos or Pride marches could land them in hot water - as they could be perceived by license payers (or the government) as left-wing. The BBC is even bringing out a podcast “exposing” Stonewall, the LGBT+ rights charity, for - shock horror - lobbying workplaces to support rights for queer employees. It’s a nasty, transparent attempt at showing the Tories and permanently furious Daily Mail readers that they are not “woke”.

There was even pressure from senior figures in the BBC and the rightwing press to cancel the hiring of experienced journalist Jess Brammar because of years-old social media posts in which she spoke out against racism and made mildly critical comments about the prime minister and Brexit.

There was no such outcry however, over the hiring of Richard Sharp as BBC chairman, a man who has donated almost half a million pounds to the Conservative party. Or Tim

Davie, recently appointed Director General of the BBC: a former Tory councillor and head of his local Conservative branch. One of the first things he did when in charge was claim that their comedy shows were unfairly targeting the government for satire, and ordered them to be seen as less left-leaning.

Predictably, none of the measures to appease the current government seem to be working. New Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, known for eating kangaroo balls and sheep anus on TV, has questioned whether the BBC will even exist in ten years’ time.

Instead of the BBC cosying up to the Tories and trying to get in their good books, it’s about time they stood up to them and fought back. Perhaps the re-hiring of Davies to look after one of its biggest shows, might, just might, be the first sign of a tentative change of approach from the Beeb.

RTD doesn’t mince his words. He recently called Dorries - a woman who used taxpayer cash to pay her

I’d love to see what creatures Davies would create to represent the current bunch in charge of the UK.

From left to right Years & Years (2019), It’s a Sin (2021), Doctor Who (2005) All courtesy of BBC photos

Russell T Davies is back to rescue Doctor Who

daughters to work for her - “a big fucking idiot” for saying nepotism was a problem in the BBC. He’s a defender of the corporation.

While admitting the BBC is far from perfect, he argues that the license fee is good value, and a subscription model wanted by some would damage the state broadcaster beyond repair.

Most importantly though, he is a loud and proud voice in support of LGBT+ rights and other social issues.

In a powerful recent speech when accepting an award, he emotionally voiced support for trans people, a community currently facing a barrage of hurtful attacks from some politicians and media.

Thankfully, the BBC did not punish him for his “controversial” remarks, as they might have done in the past.

Instead, they pointed out that he is his own person, entitled to his own views, and isn’t an employee of the BBC. (Technically true as he now works for their commercial arm, BBC Studios).

Geeks, such as myself, want Davies to boost the fortunes of our favourite sci-fi show. More broadly though, many will hope his appointment will help usher in an era where the BBC can once again give the government the healthy, democratic dose of scrutiny, satire, and ridicule it needs.

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The Stage is Set

It may not be the West End, but B2 Theatre Company’s leap from amateur to professional production is bound to get a standing ovation.

Words by Arran Proctor

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he theatre is back, and I couldn’t be happier. Being a lifelong theatre fan, involved in different amateur productions from the age of seven, I know its importance. Pivotally, it’s got a massive community and economic benefits.

Amateur theatre is crucial, allowing anyone who loves the craft the chance to participate and develop their skills.

When I heard one of the most renowned amateur theatre companies in Edinburgh, B2 Theatre Company, was about to start a brand-new journey into professional production, I was instantly intrigued. Not only that, but they are putting on one of my favourite shows – Once the Musical.

Once, based on the film of the same name, follows two lost souls in Dublin. One struggling with his recent breakup, the other coming to terms with migrating from the Czech Republic. Its beautiful blend of Irish and Czech culture helped secure the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2012.

B2 was started in 2017 by Claire Stewart, a deputy headteacher in Edinburgh. The company currently

has two wings: B2 Ensemble (for 16-year-olds and up) and B2 Bairns (4–10-year-olds). They work tirelessly every year to produce a cabaret and a full musical. In 2019 it was Rent, which was extremely well received by audience members and critics.

So much was my excitement, I spoke to the team behind this upcoming production.

Claire excitedly begins to explain how she started B2, “I was a creative director for Forth Children’s Theatre for 20 years and there was a group of leavers, I think there were 16 18-year-olds who were an exceptionally talented generation.” She then came to the realisation, due to the fact Forth Children’s Theatre ended at age 18, this group had nothing else to go on to. “I was so particularly attached to them, I was like, I’m going to start up an, initially, 18-25s transitional programme. B2 was the place that we rehearsed so we just called it B2 (Theatre Company), and it stuck.”

Five years on and they are still going strong. However, in 2020, things went a wee bit haywire.

In the wake of the pandemic, their plans to produce a professional pantomime at Leith Theatre were cut short.

Claire tells me all about the excitement she and her team experienced since coming back from lockdown, “Everyone has come back with a fresh energy, and I think because there has been that break, some of those rehearsals that you weren’t as enthusiastic about back in the day are now something to really look forward to.

Everyone is so keen and buzzing.”

Choosing Once was a decision based on circumstance, Claire says, “The

initial goal was the panto which was going to be in Leith Theatre which is a huge auditorium but that’s now closed to the public.” Leading to the gruelling task of searching for a new venue to perform, eventually choosing the Assembly Roxy. “We had to rethink,” she expresses, “like what show could we do which is appropriate for a more intimate setting and it was actually Sarah’s (Innes) idea when the Once production rights came out, I saw that and I had wanted to do it for years.”

“Everyone is so keen and buzzing.”

Left Claire Stewart Right Sarah Innes Courtesy of Mark Gorman

With casting underway and rehearsal director interviews being conducted, there is no doubt this small company is ready for this mammoth task. Once The Musical will be played at the Assembly Roxy between 20th and 23rd April 2022, with a fundraising Cabaret between 19th and 22nd January 2022.

Tickets can be purchased now for B2 Theatre’s Cabaret and production of Once the Musical by scanning the QR Code.

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Remedy to a Writer’s Heartbreak Illustrations by Wiktoria Orlicka

Sex Education & The Bold Type, two shows that softened the blow.

Words by Robyn Goodare

W

hen I’m sad, I watch TV. I can sit, breathe in another world, and imagine myself in it. My recent breakup happened to coincide with the release of Sex Education’s third season. A show that, I would argue, is one of the most exciting of our generation.

Forward-thinking and progressive, it normalises the exploration of sexuality and celebrates its diversity. The series explores the pure but volatile hearts of teenagers trying to understand their desires. The many characters, and their sex stories, teach why exploration combined with understanding - is key to feeling comfortable and safe within our own sexualities. For me, it served as a healthy reminder that there is more to sex and relationships than my own experiences, and even more that I wasn’t aware of.

Coming out of a healthy relationship with a man, I found myself wondering where I would turn next.

Sex Education reminded me about the parts of my own sexuality that I had questioned but hadn’t allowed myself to explore. It reminded me that sexuality is fluid, and writing this helped me dare to go on my first ever date with a

girl! I am now so excited about all the possibilities ahead of me and the new things I will learn about myself in the process.

I also discovered The Bold Type as my breakup happened. A series that follows three women in their twenties, working hard and achieving their career goals. What’s not to like? While their love lives are part of the story, we see three women who work for a women’s magazine, push past societal expectations, and show that they don’t require male validation to feel whole. In a world dominated by masculinity, this is one of the most important messages that TV can show. Main characters, and best friends; Jane, Sutton, and Kat support and encourage each other to be their best selves.

Jane teaches us to be honest as she learns more about herself through her writing. Watching her push herself reminded me how much I also love writing. I used it to understand my feelings and realised I was excited about my next chapter. I loved how Sutton holds onto her independence while being in a relationship, and how her self-confidence becomes the key to her career progression. Kat’s example of standing up for what she believes in, keeping an open mind about who she is, and recognising that there are

Remember that when one door closes, all the others open.

parts of herself still to discover, moved me especially. Seeing Kat explore her sexuality and learn more about who she is, reminded me that I have so much more to explore too.

So, here is my remedy to heartbreak; Remember that when one door closes, all the others open. Watch a show that has inspirational characters like these.

Any time that you find yourself stuck in your own thoughts, this writer recommends a good binge, something that will inspire you to try something new. You are more than what you have been so far, and you have the rest of your life to explore and build yourself into anyone that you want to be.

Young Royals for Young People Words by Louise Allen In an industry where it’s the bog-standard for flawless, fully-formed adults to portray adolescence, I salute Netflix’s Young Royals for casting real teenagers – skin texture and all – to play teenagers.

Pimply, flat-chested, imperfect fourteen-year-old me needed Young Royals.

Such authenticity may have seen me spending my lunch money on lunch rather than Dream Matte Mousse and Primark push-up bras.

I’m stronger than that now, but I’m full of promise for young girls of today. The likes of Young Royals may make it less of a challenge for them to blossom into the strong women of their tomorrows.

Vegan Hot Chocolate

Blended and packed in Glasgow

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current affairs.

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The pandemic changed protesting. As timelines replaced picket lines, many predicted digitalised discontent would usurp concerted congregation. At COP26, I saw the truth…

Words by Thomas McCann

P

eople are always able to find something that pisses them off. And one of the luxuries we have in our Western civilisation is the right to do something about it.

Social change is often brought about by people picking up their signs, manning the picket line, and directing clever rhythmic chanting towards the powers that be. History has shown us that whether the target is the system, the government, royalty, the patriarchy, global conglomerates, or anyone who has gotten themselves on the wrong side of the masses, people are inherently unwilling to sit quietly and ignore the problems they see.

Like most aspects of life, this was interrupted by Covid. Those manning the picket line had to abandon their post. There were, of course, protests that continued through lockdown.

Some, about the lockdowns themselves. While we were all spending our time indoors - getting dodgy haircuts and watching bread baking tutorials on YouTube - social unrest was going digital.

This had also been happening previously. Protests in Hong Kong about China’s growing political and societal involvement in the former British colony were largely orchestrated on social media. The movement also went online to brand themselves, to get the word out, and to show the world why they should be paying attention.

Black Lives Matter also saw people take to the internet as a means to tackle institutional racism. One major component of this digital demonstration was Blackout Tuesday, which took place on 2nd June. Social media users posted plain black images which filled everyone’s timelines. Some TV channels also stopped their programmes for nearly nine minutes, the same amount of time George Floyd´s

murderer pressed on his neck. The idea was to highlight that the crimes that had been reported were of greater importance than anything on social media. Demonstrations such as these seemed to be ushering in the new age of protesting.

The internet provides us with many important things in the modern age, but it cannot replace the physical presence of a crowd that is telling it like it is. This is what I saw at COP26.

Despite the fact that the majority of large-scale protests were not due to begin for another few days, there were still a good few with their homemade banners and flags as I arrived in George Square on day one of the conference. The community spirit was high, and those gathering in Glasgow seemed excited by what was to come, as the helicopters of the rich, famous, and powerful flew overhead.

I decided to head up Buchanan Street. An older woman, dressed all in black and holding a wreath. Behind

her, a procession with a coffin. A that I think it was likely the best drummer played their instrument in time for the people of Glasgow to time with the slow, lumbering march, go out and commit crimes. Surely, while those behind the poll bear- there was no one left in the city to ers held signs about the death of our stop them.

There was a large gathering planet. I had found the show I wanted.

Of course, it would be off-brand for of people who had come to the Extinction Rebellion if there was not summit from London, but were a protest with a bit of drama, a touch originally from Bangladesh. It appeared that the Scottish governof flair.

Regardless of whether or not you ment inviting their prime minister agree with the statement behind the as a welcomed guest had left a sour protest, it can’t be denied that you taste in their mouth, especially since will look up and pay attention if you Sheikh Hasina is a “fascist”, accordare told about it if it´s something a ing to those I met. They were there bit different. The world leaders aren’t to advocate for her removal as the likely going to be told about a man prime minister of Bangladesh, and outside with a sign, but they might be to call attention to the opening of told about a ten-foot-tall figure called new coal mines which are harmful “Displaced Dora” (yeah, I saw that to the environment, as well as the country’s tiger population. too).

Despite the seriousness of the The message behind it is a serious one. The climate crisis has forced issue before them - the potential end of life as people to leave we know it their homes and The internet and having to move to unfarun around miliar places. provides us with Glasgow like The climate a headless crisis is indis- many important criminate, often things in the modern chicken - I did not meet a impacting the single protester poorest countries age, but it cannot in bad spirits. who pollute our Except for those planet the least. replace the physical people Fundamentally presence of a crowd funeral of course, they though, facts are were a bit of a boring, shows are that is telling it like downer. interesting.

There is a Take The Red it is. reason why Brigade for examthere is so much ple. They arrived in Glasgow on 1st November, adorned hope among these people, why in full-body crimson cloaks with floral the camaraderie is getting people headwear. Their faces were painted through the journey they have had. white, with black eyeliner and some We are talking about these issues, with red lipstick. Not the usual crowd and that is half the battle for them.

Whether it’s the climate crisis, you would see at Central Station. They came all the way from the south of racism, workers’ disputes, student England and their arrival in Glasgow marches, or anything else, people was the end of their eco-pilgrimage. enjoy protesting. The issues and the In contrast, I had a conversation facts may be enough to bring you with an Extinction Rebellion back- down, but standing side by side packer. A typically jolly, if not slightly with like-minded people, fightdishevelled, climate activist. This poor ing for what you believe in, that man had walked to Glasgow from heals people. Covid took that away Portsmouth, somehow still upbeat when the good fight was fought about just making it to the confer- from behind a screen, but the art ence. Similar journeys, but it’s the of the protest has stood the test of showmanship that wins you airtime. time, and provided we keep getting Outside the station, the street was pissed off, it’s an art form that will manned by so many police officers persevere.

Above Red Rebel Brigade protest in Glasgow Central Below Glasgow welcomes the world

Above Are our leaders tuning in?

Below Eyes of the world on Scotland

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impulse

Educating Equality Over 70% of LGBT+ young people are bullied in Scottish schools. Can the government’s plans for progression make the grade in the fight against homophobia?

Words by Emma CooperRaeburn

I

sn’t it crazy to think, that in 2021, pupils are still suffering daily abuse based on who they love? The relentless teenage torment has resulted in the majority of LGBT+ young people facing mental health problems, but hope is not yet lost.

Scotland has become the first country in the world to introduce LGBT+ education into the school curriculum. In a year that the UK government’s shitstorm became even wilder – if that were possible – it appears that Scotland is, once again, leading the way to a kinder and more progressive future.

Since May 2017, the Scottish government has been working closely with the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign, to help tackle the discrimination LGBT+ people face in school. The partnership with the multi-award winning charity means that all state schools across Scotland will have government support through a website, where teachers, pupils, parents, and carers can access ways to assist LGBT+ young people.

Teachers will also be mandated to take part in an awareness course on LGBT+ inclusive education.

There was a common consensus amongst education staff that this is a progressive step forward.

Olivia Blair, a support teacher at Breadalbane Academy in Perthshire, said, “Hopefully, it will educate and inform, and allow ALL young people to enjoy their education without prejudice and bullying. Teenagers, especially, can be inherently ignorant

Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka

towards the LGBT+ community – it’s a kind of pack mentality – and so the more informed they can be through a widening of the curriculum, the better.”

We must remember that this legislation, although aimed specifically at promoting equality and reducing bullying of LGBT+

on delivering a course that understands where homophobia stems from, the impact and the approaches to eradicate it.

“I feel students have been more vocal about their sexuality and more forthcoming about expressing themselves. However, I still feel many teenagers are products of either family situations or societal pressure, and I still see homophobia in school. We have tried more to promote LGBT+ issues and the responses are mostly positive, but you do hear the odd groan or see the eye rolls of some students.”

Although some Scots like to think our land is above it, as a country we must accept we have a past and a present with homophobia. Now, it’s up to our generation to fight for equality and acceptance for all. Scotland can, and will, lead the way forward towards the goal of a more inclusive society, one that doesn’t accept bullying and abuse of those of different sexualities. The plans for change in our schools deserve praise, but the work must go on far beyond the bell until homophobia in our society is expelled.

SECTION 28 pupils within schools, will be carried on into communities. It is hoped that this will, in turn, reduce the violence against LBGT+ young people happening still too regularly on our streets and in our homes.

Sean O’Donnell, a Modern Studies teacher who has already developed a National 5 course that will focus on LGBT+ rights, said, “We are focused

The Conservative government passed Section 28 as part of the Local Government Act in 1988, which banned teachers from educating pupils about the acceptance of LGBT+ relationships. Councils were stopped from stocking library bookshelves with literature containing LGBT+ content, meaning young people had to find educational material elsewhere. The legislation legitimised abuse and homophobic bullying in school playgrounds, which had a damaging impact on the mental health of those in the LGBT+ community.

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Shifting the Burden We have had Take Back the Night, #MeToo, and Time’s Up, but men aren’t taking responsibility.

The women of impulse are ready for change.

Words by Robyn Goodare

“The bouncer just left me by myself” “My boss danced on me, then lifted me up on a work night out” “A 50 yearold man flirting with her, and she was the one that got fired”

A

s women, we often bond by sharing our feelings, so bringing impulse’s women together to discuss was a powerful experience.

We listed off the many assaults that we have endured. We shared feelings of anger, fear, disgust, and frustration of not being heard.

After angrily telling our stories with each other, we felt strongly that our audience was missing. Women have been having these kinds of conversations for a really long time, but the thing that’s missing is men hearing them.

Maybe we would see a change if more men were hearing how we really feel.

How often and how impactful these experiences really are.

“You have never been in that situation and you’re never going to be.”

We have highlighted over social media how many women have these experiences, and while some men have contributed to the conversation - showing support for their female friends – it is clear that they do not understand. Yes, some men have experienced assault, but very few share the constant fear of it as they go about their daily lives. Men often make fun of women for going to the bathroom together, an example of the unwillingness to understand how real and constant this issue is.

“I wish I had the confidence of a straight white man.”

It’s normal for us to make a call while we take a taxi, share our location with a friend when going on a date, and hold our keys in between our fists when walking home at night.

It’s normal for us to share the experiences of our assaults, the cat calls, the fear of being followed in the dark.

The constant conversation about this has highlighted, for many women, how important and real this is. We have all shared our stories with each other and do the many things that we feel are necessary to keep ourselves safe. But talking so openly about this has actually made many of us feel more scared.

“It’s like the world doesn’t want us to be independent.”

Most frustratingly, we don’t get to look after ourselves. We don’t want to rely on men to keep us safe. We want to be strong, independent women who push through cultural and societal boundaries. But we can’t have this until men listen to and understand our concerns.

We need our horrors to be shared so that the next generation are taught how to keep women safe. We need the educators in our schools to teach respect and equality from an early age. We need our bosses and managers to understand that we cannot finish a shift late at night without precautions to get us home safely. We need men, alongside everyone else, to call each other out for behaviours and language they use. We need everyone to understand that it is not right for us to feel guilty for not keeping ourselves safe.

We are not responsible for the violence towards us.

“It’s not just one event for us” “I don’t go clubbing because I don’t like people touching me” “He tried to put a cigarette out on me”

“As a woman you want to be “We have to start somewhere. independent - a boss bitch – If we ever have sons, this will be but the fact that I am scared our way of starting a generation to walk 5 minutes to my car, is of men who are respectful” hard”

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impulse

The Whole World in Our Hands Years of inaction and complacency have brought us to a pivotal climate crossroads. Young people won’t walk down the same route to destruction. It’s time to forge a new path.

Words by Emma Barton

F

alkirk, underwater. That could be the reality we face, according to a recent study which suggested the city will be completely submerged by 2050.

As someone who lives less than an hour’s drive from Falkirk, it made for disturbing reading. Yet, hardly anyone seems to have heard this warning. The harrowing estimation highlights the speed at which the planet is warming, and it’s not slowing down just to give us a chance of catching up.

As a child I was told, “Remember to turn off the lights, to save the polar bears.” I did as I was instructed, and began to feel this small pang of guilt grow into a tidal wave of anxiousness whenever I did something that would negatively impact the planet I call ‘home´.

Now, I am older. I have watched

countless documentaries, read hundreds of articles, and have been warned of the destruction that awaits my world if we do not change. I must ask myself, however, what can I (as one small, insignificant speck) do?

I’m no poster child for the fight against the climate crisis. I may fail to turn off the odd light.

I may fail to recycle a plastic bottle. And I may fail to turn the water off every time I brush my teeth.

Though, I never fail to forget about the devastating consequences that await this planet. It consumes me.

Older generations turn to young people with their grand, “It’s your job

Illustration by Wiktoria Orlicka

impulse

to save the planet.” Thank you, for reminding us that we must save ourselves as you failed to prevent this. As a generation, we are infuriated by those that came before us. They neglected something they should have taken care of, but what are young people doing to reverse the impact of the climate crisis? Sure, a re-shared post on Instagram is a great way to spread awareness – for a cause that we have been aware of

since the 1990s…

I asked the contributors of impulse what they personally do to battle the climate crisis and I was met with a considerable mixed bag of opinion.

On one end of the scale, “I don’t think I do (anything to battle the climate crisis.) I don’t eat sustainably. I partake in fast fashion.

As a student, it’s not the biggest thing on my mind, but it can cost a lot to be climate conscious.”

Onto the other end, “I drink oat milk and recycle. I walk or cycle.

I never buy plastic bags – I always use tote bags and I informed my grandmother of climate change which prompted her to begin recycling. I buy food produce that isn’t in single use packaging.”

Of all the answers, I received one point stood out like a sole wind turbine in a shifting field.

“I can’t do anything as one person, corporations must change.”

Many people think that although young people discuss the issue, they don’t really do much about it. I disagree. Whilst it is hard for young people to consciously bring their contribution to the climate crisis down to zero, they are investing far more time into activism. Greta Thunberg has faced terrible backlash for not attending school and, instead, speaking out. Many think it is an act for profit. Why are we dismissing the actions of a young person? Is it to distract from the real issue at hand?

Those who want to help the cause are trapped in a world of manipulation. I can’t go to the shops without becoming an accessory to the destruction

of the planet. Everything is wrapped in plastic. Plastic packaging stretches as far as the eye can see in any major supermarket, and even though I do my best to recycle, I don’t know where my waste will ultimately end up. We are given no options. The best we can do is not buy these necessary items, and even then, are we doing enough? We call upon companies to give us a way out, but all they see is the wads of cash they have rolling in.

I remember sitting in assembly year after year and having the same message drilled into my head about reduce, re-use, recycle. I’ve practiced all three of these cardinal rules religiously, only to find out that in actual fact, just 100 companies are responsible for 71% of carbon emissions.

Don’t shower for longer than fifteen minutes at the risk of water waste.

Why then, are jeans still being mass produced? A single pair of jeans takes 1,800 gallons of water to produce.

I’m pretty sure that’s more than my shower. Before older generations start questioning young people and their actions, maybe they should look in the mirror.

The younger generation has been burdened with a heavy task and now is the time to act. My letter to young people everywhere is; get involved with battling the climate crisis, as best you can. It doesn’t matter how big or small your contribution is, anything will help, but we must be strict. We must question those with the power to enforce change. We can boycott corporations until we see a difference being made. We need to save our planet, our home, before it’s too late.

The deadline is much closer than we think.

The younger generation has been burdened with a heavy task and now is the time to act.

39

Government Goes Green For the first time in both Scottish and UK history, the Greens are in government. Maggie Chapman MSP discusses the party’s remarkable rise, and what the future holds in their power-sharing agreement with the SNP. Words by Thomas McCann

T

he 6th of May 2021 is one of the most significant dates in the history of the Scottish Green Party, as they claimed eight seats in Holyrood.

This was the party’s most successful election result, and it turned the heads of the big players.

Another important date for the party is the 28th of August 2021, which is when the vote for a SNP-Green power-share was ratified.

It was, for all intents and purposes, a coalition. This put the eco-socialists in government for the first time, bringing them a long way from their humble beginnings. The hippies of Holyrood got themselves a seat at the cool table.

Maggie Chapman is one of their sitting MSPs, and has been heavily involved in their recent rise to the top.

Despite the Scottish Greens being a part of the legislative process, she believes the party were still a bit of an unknown up until the events of 2014.

“There’s a sense of risk attached to voting Green,” she says, “because there isn’t necessarily a full understanding of the party or an idea of trust in being

able to deliver.”

“The independence referendum changed that quite significantly. It gave us a platform from which we could actually reach significantly more people than we’d ever been able to reach before. We were talking about Scotland in a way that I think was very attractive to people”.

It may have thrust them into the mainstream, but they did not get the result they wanted.

The turnout for the referendum was historically high, and both the SNP and the Greens realised they had an issue on their hands that the public were very passionate about. Chapman believes that COP26 could be another catalyst in reaffirming their side of the debate.

“Are we keen on another independence referendum in this parliamentary session? Absolutely.”

“Maybe I’m speaking too soon,” she continues, “but I think COP probably gives us another lever in that (the independence debate), because if we see what comes out of COP as being weak and poor and not good enough for Scotland, never mind the rest of the world, then I think that gives us a

“The demand for the right to determine our own future grows.”

little bit more impotence around it.”

“The demand for the right to determine our own future grows, and I think it is growing. There’s a democratic imperative there.”

From our conversation, it appears that COP26 is the next battleground of the independence debate. When it comes to the Scottish Greens, the relationship with the SNP is an interesting topic. The SNP is a centre-left party, who have teamed up with a left-wing party. So I had to ask, have the Greens sold out in exchange for access?

“I think there are things that we would probably do a bit differently if we didn’t have the co-operation agreement.”

“Of course there’s compromise.

That’s kind of how political cooperation has to work. We’re only two months into it and I think there are going to be some very difficult issues over the next four and a half years, I’m certain of that. Whether we are able to work through those issues remains to be seen.”

Maggie Chapman is one of the architects of the modern Scottish Green Party, and the sentiment from within the camp, as well as on the outside, seems to be that the party is on the cusp of something bigger.

These eco-warriors, who were once sneered at and dismissed, could just be Scotland’s saviour from the climate crisis. Maybe a tall order, but the Greens are determined to keep growing and growing.

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Maggie Chapman MSP Courtesy of Carolyn Scott

42

impulse

The Imbalance of Immortalisation Walking round the historic streets of our gorgeous city, you’ll find more named statues of animals than of women – an underrepresentation far from inconsequential.

Words by Thomas McCabe

P

arisa Urquhart’s Baftanominated film “Scotland, Slavery and Statues” has reignited a once fiery conversation that had been simmering. Statues were among the most debated issues in our public discourse of the last 18 months.

There is one injustice that hasn’t had nearly as much discussion, scrutiny, or media coverage - the lack of statues of females in our city.

It’s indisputable that in history, culture, and society, women have contributed just as much as men. Yet, in Edinburgh, there is a ratio of 47 named statues of men to two of women. The pair?

Queen Victoria, the monarch who led the British Empire to become a superpower of its time, and Helen Crummy MBE, the founder and figurehead of the Craigmillar Festival Society.

Staggeringly, it puts the total tally of named statues of women in Edinburgh behind those of…animals. Greyfriars’s Bobby, Wojtek the bear, and a statue of a dog from San Francisco called the “Bum Dog” outnumber females on this one.

Animals are great, on that most people agree. When we are commemorating individuals in stone - human

or otherwise - to stand long after we are gone, you would hope out of the many amazing women in the history of our city, they’d manage to exceed our furry friends.

Despite the acclaim Urquhart has received for her statue-centred documentary, the vast underrepresentation of women in these figures disappoints her, “There’s the acknowledgment that there’s minimal statues of women in Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole. In Edinburgh, there’s not much action being taken and that’s frustrating because there are a lot of amazing women that have made a lot of changes in Edinburgh and they do need to be acknowledged.”

It is important to remember history is not binary, and of the many w o m e n deserving of a statue, it is particularly important to acknowledge women of colour, as well as white Scottish women.

Agnes Yewande Savage is the first woman of West African descent to qualify as a doctor. She graduated with honours from the University of Edinburgh, then went on to help establish a nursing school in Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana. Savage, despite facing severe gender and

“There are a lot of amazing women that have made a lot of changes in Edinburgh and they do need to be acknowledged.”

racial discrimination throughout her life, paved the way for thousands of West African doctors.

There’s also the Edinburgh Seven - the first ever women undergraduate students at any British university.

They faced rampant abuse, discrimination, and threats.

With Edinburgh Uni refusing their degrees, they finished their studies abroad, with Sophia Jex-Blake becoming Edinburgh’s first female doctor.

Although statues may only be stone, their impact goes beyond. As Urquhart says, “What people need to think about is, if they were walking around Edinburgh and all the statues were women, how would they feel? How would a man feel if all the statues around him are of women and not one of a man?”

It is important to recognise that, by uplifting the women of our past, it is not an attack on men, nor is it historical revisionism.

It is an acknowledgment of our shared history for what it is - shared.

Right The Melville Monument in St Andrew Square

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sport.

43

Coyle scores on league debut

New Queen of the Castle Studying, moving over from America, adapting to a new style of play, avoiding moving traffic. Hibernian’s Alexa Coyle has taken (almost) all of it in her stride.

Words by Cameron Wanstall

C

ertain things change when you cross the Atlantic Ocean.

The imperial system becomes the metric system, soccer becomes football, and vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. Alexa Coyle found out about the last distinction the hard way.

“On my first day here, I almost got hit walking across the street! But I look the other way now.”

A dominating forward with a fortunate knack for finding the back of the net, Coyle has taken to the Scottish capital like a duck takes to water (excluding the initial hiccup of nearly being knocked down in the street).

The summer influx of American stars at Hibs - with goalkeeper Gabby English and midfielder Toni Malone also making the Transatlantic trip - is appreciated by the newcomer.

“It’s been great to have other American teammates, just in terms of that relatability and coming from the same culture. The girls and coaching staff are great at Hibs. That’s been a really helpful aspect as well that has made adjusting to this culture pretty seamless.”

After four years of playing university football for the Montana Grizzlies, Coyle knew she was ready for the next step in her career.

That next step has taken her a hefty 4,200 miles away from home and into the effervescent world of Scottish football. Her studies continue for now, however. Living on a different continent while being a professional athlete and a student may take its toll on some, but not Coyle.

“Playing football and going to school all through my four years of university really prepared me for this,” she states proudly, before continuing, “University in the States has prepared

me for life in general. That skill of balancing sport and other responsibilities is because of that.”

Despite the demands of sport and study, Coyle has still made time to tour her new city and, though yearning for the summer sun to return, is eager to rattle off a list of spots she’s visited already.

Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Palace, and both Cramond and Portobello beaches are all excitedly mentioned, but the biggest thrill she experienced was seeing Edinburgh Castle - the very same landmark that is emblazoned across Hibernian’s iconic crest.

A debut goal against Kilmarnock in the SWPL Cup, secured by Coyle bravely stepping up to the penalty spot with the score still level, was then followed by four goals pocketed in the annihilations of both Dundee United and Stirling University to round out the group stage.

“I always have a similar mindset of I

Head in the game

had to come in and work as hard as I could. That is how you ultimately gain the respect of your teammates. I came in and tried to work hard, learn, and continue to integrate into the team.”

Netting just five minutes into the Scottish Women’s Premier League 1 opener versus Spartans to get the Hibees’ league campaign underway immediately caught the attention of supporters. This American import just kept scoring goals. There was no settling in period, or adjusting to a new country, just six goals in four games.

Coyle has already spoken proudly of the support for the women’s game around the world, particularly in her temporary home of Scotland, calling the passion of fans here “unique.”

The most evident showing of pride from the forward comes as we discuss a certain Wednesday evening in late September.

“It was incredible for me. I’ve played in some high stakes games in my collegiate career, but I’ve never played

in a crowd of that size. I think the magnitude of the moment was just so impactful for the women’s game here.

I felt that sense of pride, even though I’m new to the club because of how big a deal this was for Scottish women’s football.”

The monumental night in question was derby day.

Hibernian hosted city rivals Heart of Midlothian at Easter Road - the first ever women’s Edinburgh Derby at the ground - and shattered the Scottish women’s club football attendance record.

5,512 spectators were in attendance to witness Coyle open the scoring. She made it look so easy. A difficult header, made possible by her perfect positioning and footballing intelligence, seemed effortless when carried out by the hero of the moment.

“I think scoring that goal, not only

“I think the magnitude of the moment was just so impactful for the women’s game here.”

Celebrating an Edinburgh Derby opener

against our rivals, but just with the magnitude of the event, was really, really special. The win, and the whole event in general, made that night particularly special.”

Coyle has been nothing short of cheerful and vibrant for our entire conversation. At this moment in particular, she’s at her most joyful.

A beaming smile has broken her response, before continuing, “But yes, it definitely was an exciting goal to score. To hear the roar of the crowd and, just all night, it was really an inspiring atmosphere to play in.”

The wide smile that has stuck with Coyle throughout our chat withers for just a moment when asked about her future. It soon returns when she takes a moment to think about what comes next.

“I don’t really have a specific vision.

That could be here in Scotland, a different country in the UK, or Europe, or back home, but all I can say is I’ve been loving my time here with the Hibs.”

“The present takes care of the future” according to Coyle. That’s her mindset and she won’t change it.

There are studies to be finished and plenty of goals to be scored. The rest of the journey can wait for now.

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impulse

Why Do Women Feel Uncomfortable at the Gym? 69% of women don’t go to the gym because they feel anxious.

I’ve seen it, I’ve felt it. It has to change.

Words by Emma Barton

I

enjoy looking after my body. I watch what I eat but never forbid myself from enjoying tasty treats or a nice snack. I love to keep fit, but I think balance is a key part of taking care of yourself. Sure, working out is great for aesthetic reasons if that is what you are looking to achieve. However, working out, for me, has additional benefits.

I feel healthier, I have more energy and stamina, and as many people know, exercise has been known to release endorphins which causes one to feel emotions of happiness. Why then, when I go to the gym, do I feel increased levels of anxiety?

I have danced since I was a child, studies have shown that putting a child into dance classes increases their levels of confidence. However, the minute I set foot in a gym this confidence escapes my body and I shyly pad my way over to the quietest corner of the room. Saturday nights and Sunday mornings are my go-to because I know that people will be out or recovering from the night before. I feel like I’m being watched when I’m there. Sometimes I am. I try to stare back until a guy feels as uncomfortable as he made me.

After realising my own anxieties around going to the gym, I took to Instagram to ask other women if they felt the same. It was reassuring to find that almost everyone I engaged with felt the same as me. I felt a sense of comfort at knowing I wasn’t alone.

But I was met with a different emotion, one of concern and frustration; this new knowledge unsettled me.

My super-scientific Instagram poll showed me that 69% of women didn’t go to the gym because they felt anxious about it. 80% said they felt better about going when they had a friend with them. It wasn’t great to read “it makes me feel less uncomfortable when people stare at me if my friend is there.”

I found it crazy that almost everyone who answered my questions said that they had caught someone watching them in the gym – this is a pandemic in itself. I laughed out loud at one guy’s response when he said he wanted to attend a female only gym - thanks for proving my point, mate. I can’t really say I was all too shocked at the comment.

I know not all men are creeps who watch women work out at the gym, but one is enough for me to stay away.

I shouldn’t feel nervous to work out, I shouldn’t feel as though I need an entourage to go to the gym. I guess

I feel like I’m being watched when I’m there.

Sometimes I am.

my feminine guilt will tell me it’s my own mentality and I’m being dramatic once again.

Women are tired of feeling guilty.

We are tired of being told we’re dramatic. These feelings of anxiety in the gym aren’t isolated incidents. There’s a clear pattern. A chain of entitlement that must be broken.

Top Five Fitness Apps Words by Cara Blackhall

1. Couch to 5K A running plan with the aim of gradually building you up to run a 5km within nine weeks. Your schedule will change as you progress and become more confident.

2. 7-minute workout The app is free to use and works your lower body, upper body and core.

Everyone can give up seven minutes of their day, so why not use it to benefit your physical health?

3. Fitbod Weightlifting Trainer The app is a customised programme which allows you to choose different types of fitness methods that are best suited towards your fitness level.

4. Sworkit An app with a wide range of workouts that can be done with no equipment.

You can choose to go premium too, which will give you access to even more.

5. FitOn Available on Android and IOS, the app contains strength, cardio, and yoga, as well as HIIT workouts too.

Football for All

impulse

The beautiful game enjoyed in beautiful spirit. The world’s first football league for autistic children is changing the lives of families across Scotland.

Words by Cameron Wanstall

“

The whole day was just fabulous. Win, lose, draw, whatever. These kids just had the time of their lives.”

These are the words of Trish Sime, Bonnyrigg Rose Football Club Development Manager.

A turning up of the nose to the outcome of a competitive sports match is ordinarily a major no-no, but this is no ordinary competition we are discussing.

This is the world’s first ever Autism Football League.

Never before has there been an opportunity for youths with autism to play in a competitive, though safe and structured, environment. Until now.

The ground-breaking initiative, devised by the award-winning charity Team United, features several teams - including established professional football clubs such as Hibernian, Livingston, and Partick Thistle - forming both a league and cup competition.

Bonnyrigg Rose are another founding club that have put together a squad of youths to participate in the innovative competition and Sime, who in her role oversees the community club’s contribution to the project, is eager to express the joy she has witnessed so far.

The word fabulous is fittingly used multiple times. Sime’s visible pride is not only for the years of hard work put into getting the league started, or for the Rose’s involvement in helping to build its foundations, but more so for the delight on the faces of the boys and girls competing on the pitch. A wonderful sight many helpers and parents could never have imagined.

“It’s an amazing thing to see every week. You leave with that kind of feel good factor… For as much as they’re all very different, in terms of their autistic traits - even physically as some kids

may struggle with coordination - the second these kids get on the pitch, it’s gone. Absolutely gone.

There’s a mutual respect and support for each other between these kids. It’s fabulous to see.”

An absolute insistence on making the project inclusive for all, no matter a family’s situation, is another source of pride for Bonnyrigg Rose and other clubs.

“Part of our club’s strategy is very much looking at inclusion - both from a football and community perspective. We want to be in a position where anybody who wants to be a part of whatever’s going on, they are welcome to join.

“There is never a fee for anything, we don’t charge for anything. We get them kitted out and anything that’s going on, the club will support or contribute towards.”

Structure is a word that has appeared a lot when discussing the Autism Football League and Sime is keen to explain why organisation is pivotal to the project.

“Autistic kids tend to need structure. They need to know what’s going on and when it’s going on… Change can throw them and they can struggle with that, so everything really needs to be routined.

“When we got strips for the tournament, they don’t have any numbers on them because the kids then think ‘that’s my number forever.’ Things we don’t think about and take for granted, these kids have a different thinking process for. Structure is really important for them.”

Charity, inclusion, and structure are clearly the three key elements that made this marvellous project possible. Who knows, maybe a few more helping hands and we can prepare for a Champions League expansion in the future.

“It’s an amazing thing to see every week, you leave with that kind of feel good factor”

Left Competitive spirit on show Right “Get in there!”

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What to do when you find yourself in your mid-30s, tired of life as it is? If you’re bored, it’s time to board.

Words by Tobias Nørgaard

T

o the soundtrack of eardrum-deafening skate punk and tiny hard wheels rolling over the wooden ramps, the Skate Fogies enter the indoor skatepark Transgression. Gia Illenseer drags her knee pads up her leg, fastens her black wrist protector, and clicks her helmet.

This is the 37-year-old’s fourth month of skateboarding.

Today, the goal is to ride up a ramp, ride back down again, and then turn the board 180 degrees.

During lockdown, Gia got restless. She needed a new goal: Learning to ride a proper skateboard. On 17th April this year, she headed to Facebook and wrote a post in the Skateboard Scotland group, asking for help: “I know the skateparks are open, but feeling a bit shy to go there as a not-so-young beginner,” she wrote.

The same day, Gia got in touch with Skate Fogies, a group of 10 skaters over the age over 30. Many of them meet up weekly for sessions, supporting and cheering each other’s first skateboard baby steps.

“The first time I dropped in on the tiniest ramp in the park, everyone was stomping and screaming ‘YEAH’,” Gia says.

Before Ailsa Colquhoun joined Skate Fogies six weeks ago, it had been 20 years since she last put her feet on a skateboard. Obsessed with the cult game Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2 during her teenage years, and finally, watching skate prodigy and Olympic bronze winner, 13-year-old Sky Brown this summer, Ailsa said to herself, “I wanna do that!” She used to roller skate because it was easier and felt safer. As the world stagnated, something started to move inside of her. Why compromise?

“It was a part of finding my real self.

Not letting myself be held back by anything.

And I want to learn to ollie before I die, it’s on my bucket list,” Ailsa laughs. “Skating allows you to return to a childlike mentality where everything is possible.”

These two aren’t outliers.

Skateboarding enjoyed a surge in popularity over Covid, as board sales reached record heights and parks filled with skaters of varying experience.

Gia’s practicing her goal of the day, most of the time just inches from getting the board turned 180 degrees. A group of younger virtuosos takes turns ollying up on a box, trying out various mind-boggling flips on the way down again. When one succeeds, the observers stomp their boards on the wooden floor.

“It’s the same with every trick,” Gia says, “You fail, you fail, you fail. But then you succeed, and it’s the most rewarding feeling.”

For Gia, skateboarding is a way of learning to handle fear. Fear of failing, and fear of falling. It’s something she

“Fear is limiting the potential that exists in every one of us.”

Left Gia Illenseer

brings with her outside of the skatepark.

“I don’t want to be limited by my fear. Not do something because my brain tells me to be careful,” she says.

“Fear is limiting the potential that exists in every one of us.”

After countless tries, Ailsa yells “Did anyone see it?” Gia saw it!

Ailsa managed to pop her first ollie; all wheels lifted off the ground.

“Now, what’s next?

Kickflip?” Ailsa asks herself.

A few seconds later, Gia finally pulls the board around, rolling out of the turn victoriously. “It felt epic.”

In a world often so divided and bitter, just feeling “epic” goes a long way.

No matter what stage of life you’re at, it’s never too late to give something a go.

As I learned with Gia and Ailsa, fear is no excuse.

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A “little Instagram” that turned into a movement. No matter who they love, Edinburgh’s Queer Skate Collective has people falling for skating.

Words by Rachel Flint

S

kateboarding has long been associated with the hyper-masculine, b e a n i e - we a r i n g , ganja-smoking, social-misfit stereotype which has defined the sport for decades. The cliché undoubtedly made its mark, with many now pushing for open minds and acceptance.

No matter where you fall on the spectrum, everyone here shares one common ground: the love of skating.

E d i n b u r g h’s Queer Skate Collective aims to provide a safe space for queer people to skate freely, as themselves. Created in October 2020 by friends Jude and Valia, the collective worked around the pandemic to host socially-distanced skate meet-ups to accommodate all skill levels. This included upcycling old parts and providing re a d y - t o - s k a t e boards for newcomers donated

by existing members. I sat down with Jude to discuss the “ever evolving collective.”

“We really just wanted to skate and thought we’d see if anyone else wanted to skate with us, so we set up a little Instagram.” Believing not much would happen, it was a surprise when 20 people showed up ready to take part.

It has continued to grow ever since, with sister collectives appearing in Newcastle, Glasgow, and Dundee.

“At the heart of it all, it’s all about c o m m u n i t y.

The dream, for me, has always been creating a community space for queer people. This, right now, is the perfect interim, where we can start amassing that community and saying it’s okay to be queer. It’s okay to be queer and outside and visible doing sports because queer people are often put off sports. I think it’s just a big exercising community, teaching and learning.”

The club aims to raise awareness surrounding the queer experience in Scotland through the short documentary Queer: Here and Now which is still in the making. The collective organised charitable events such as a “SKATE-A-THON” in July, skating from Crammond to Portobello and raising £420 for Teenage Cancer Trust.

People who don’t conform to the skater stereotype often face issues trying to integrate and find their place

in the sport. With little representation or encouragement, many are pushed away. “I think a lot of people have this perception that skating as a queer person is ground-breaking. I think the idea of visibility is groundbreaking but generally, if you’re in the right scene, there are few problems as a queer person. We’re trying to operate a space that changes the perception aspect more than anything else,” says Jude.

The club remains adamant about creating space for everyone, “I think if you can get behind the idea of Queer and what that means outside of “it means you’re gay”, I think you can see how anyone is welcome, you just have to get with the vibe.”

There’s a space for everyone in the collective. With its one-year anniversary approaching and skate meet-ups set to continue, Jude maintains hope for the future coming out of restrictions. “The pandemic has been really hard for so many people, but I’m grateful for the opportunities that it’s allowed us … to build new space and potentially challenge spaces that were there. As much as it’s been such a truly awful and non-repeatable time, I think it has changed the status quo and I hope we see more of a change as we progress. Just keep skating!”

“The dream, for me, has always been creating a community space for queer people.”

Right Skating Skills

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Rise of the Falcon Often, those who face the most adversity have the highest ambition. In the unforgiving world of rugby, a young Scot is determined to overcome all obstacles.

Words by Gregor Trayner

I

n the summer of 2019, 20-year-old Robbie Smith was at a crossroads in his professional rugby career.

Despite playing internationally for Scotland at every youth level, a lack of game time at Glasgow Warriors lead him to make the toughest decision of his life; leaving his family behind to move to RFU Championship side Bedford City Blues.

It would be against eventual champions Newcastle Falcons where Smith would truly prove himself, with his outstanding performance against the North-East side prompting the newly-promoted club to go after the man who shone so brightly in opposition colours.

Despite two seasons having passed, Smith’s stint at Bedford remains fresh in the memory, “I was able to fit into the squad really well. I ended up having a really good pre-season and kicked on from that…I was playing against some Premiership level players who were on loan, and it was a good level for me, so I knew here was a chance that I would get picked up.

Luckily enough, we played Newcastle twice. I’d always planned to get back to the top level of rugby, luckily enough, they came knocking after a few decent games against them.”

The move to Newcastle, however, has brought its own challenges.

As Smith himself acknowledges,

the hooker position is arguably the most competitive in the team. Jamie Blamire has just been called up to the England squad, but his teammate stays focused.

“I feel like the underdog. At the time, there wasn’t a contract for me in Scotland. My motivation now is to try and get to the Scotland National first team and (people will) be like ‘Oh shit, here’s Robbie Smith back again,’ rather than just being the guy who didn’t have an opportunity to sign for one of the professional teams in Scotland.”

After the move, pre-season was looking bright, with Smith pushing for second spot in the hooker line. Disaster struck however, as a badly torn hamstring just prior to the season’s curtain raiser saw the Scot’s quest for solid game time curtailed.

After five months of watching on from the sidelines, Smith would get his chance. A 74-3 victory for the

Exeter Chiefs left many dispirited, yet for one man, it was a milestone.

“We got bit of a spanking to be fair, but I loved it,” Smith said. “To make my Premiership debut was quite a big moment for me and to play against a team of that level! You don’t get many chances to play against a team like that.”

With his sights set firmly on the future, Smith turns his attention to this season. Now 23, the hooker is focused solely on playing as many games as he can both domestically and in Europe.

His diligence and determination ensure that no matter what situation is thrown at him, he still finds a way to come out on top. This s perseverance makes him a perfect candidate for the Scotland squad in years to come, and his ability absolutely backs that up. He is a true ‘Comeback Kid,’ and is far from beyond the realms of possibility that he could walk out at Murrayfield in years to come.

“I feel like the underdog ... My motivation now is to try and get to the Scotland National Team”

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Robbie Smith Courtesy of David Rogers

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Finding My Club

I like football, but haven’t followed a team for years. What to do? Write to all 42 SPFL Clubs and ask why I should support them, of course. Here’s what happened.

Words by Logan Walker

D

o you support a football team? If you’re Scottish, you most likely support Celtic or Rangers. Maybe Hearts or Hibs.

Maybe you’re one of those people so disillusioned with the game at the top level you support your local junior team. Me? I don’t support anyone.

You see, I grew up in Armadale. A town with two Union Jacks for every person. A town where the majority of street signs have either RFC, WATP, or FTP spray painted on them. It’s a place where the words “fenian” and “taig” are thrown around with reckless abandon. Every time Rangers and Celtic play each other, regardless of the outcome, Gers fans gather at the cross in the centre of town and do “the bouncy”, like some strange ancient occult ritual, perhaps hoping to summon the ghost of Davie Cooper. It’s a weird little place.

When I was a kid, all my friends supported Rangers. So, I did too. Not because I felt a connection to the club, but because I wanted to fit in. I had an orange Rangers away strip, with Lorenzo Amuroso’s name and number on the back. I was deep undercover.

As I got older and started to become more conscious of what was going on in the world around me, the language and behaviour I was experiencing on a daily basis started to unsettle me.

Grown men shouting about how much they hate Catholics, and their children repeating it. It’s the ugly side

of the game that some people choose to ignore, but you can’t ignore it when it’s happening outside your front door.

I gave up the ruse. I stopped supporting Rangers. Threw my tops in the bin and ceased pretending to care in the slightest about the team’s results. I went into voluntary exile.

All of which meant, I didn’t have a team. And that really sets you apart.

I still liked football, but I wasn’t in a rush to swear allegiance to another club. I thought that eventually, I would naturally find my way elsewhere.

Maybe come across a game on the TV, and find myself rooting for a side.

Maybe I’d be invited to a game and get caught up in the atmosphere, erupting in cheers with the fans when a goal went in.

Didn’t turn out that way.

I’ve been to a lot of games. I saw Manchester United (in Fergie’s final season) beat Newcastle United 4-3, with the winning goal coming in the final minute of injury time. I felt nothing.

I went all the way to Germany and saw Borussia Dortmund triumph 3-1 over Hoffenheim, Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan running riot. I was unmoved. I saw Hibs play Aberdeen off the park at Easter Road, battering them 3-0. I yawned.

I didn’t feel the connection. I waited for the connection to come along, and it didn’t. So, I went searching. I got in touch with every single club in the SPFL, from Aberdeen to Stranraer, and asked a simple question. “Why should I support your

I want to experience it all, the elation and delirium when your team pulls off the impossible.

club?”

You might expect that these clubs would relish the opportunity to espouse their deeply held values, to explain what sets them apart from everyone else. Why they are deserving of adulation and admiration, why someone should give up their freetime and hard-earned money to stand in the freezing cold cheering them on.

42 clubs. 42 emails. 1 response. I screamed into the abyss, and a voice answered back. That voice belonged to Partick Thistle.

More specifically, that voice belonged to Brian, who works in Partick Thistle’s PR department. Brian informed me that he had passed on my message to the untold legions of loyal Partick fans and was compiling their responses before sending them my way. Brian was the light at the end of a very long, dark tunnel. Brian, it turned out, was also a lying bastard.

Two weeks after his initial email, I had received no such compilation. No fans telling me how much they loved their club, and why. Nothing to entice me into supporting them. I was left in the lurch. Brian had presented me with a carrot, and proceeded to crack the stick in half over my head.

Perhaps, this is a sign. For forsaking my original team, I am cursed to wander the earth forever, with no club to support. A footballing nomad, with no home. I can look through the window at everyone gathered inside, sitting by the fire and laughing, joined in camaraderie, but I can never walk through the door.

Is this really a curse, though? There are certain benefits to having no team to support. My weekends are never ruined by a dodgy result. A keeper with butterfingers has never made me want to leap off the top of the nearest building. A derby-day defeat has never tempted me to commit violent assault upon another human being. A bovril

Overwhelming options

has never passed these lips. Maybe it’s a blessing after all.

I won’t lie, I still get jealous seeing the enjoyment that other people get from supporting their clubs. I want to experience it all, the elation and delirium when your team pulls off the impossible, the agony and despair

when victory is torn away at the last second. I want to throw my pint in the air and celebrate mindlessly with thousands of others, all united by a common love. I want to throw a 50 pence piece that flies elegantly through the air before striking a linesman directly on the brow, drawing

blood (and jubilant cheers from the crowd).

I’ve learned my lesson though. You can’t force these things. I’m happy to bide my time and wait for the right team to come along. I know one thing for sure though. The right team is not Partick fucking Thistle.

2001: impulse Launches George W. Bush Inaugurated Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Premieres 9/11 Tiger Woods Holds All Four Majors Shrek Released Bratz Dolls Launch Coal Mining in Scotland Comes to an End 2002: Serena Williams Defeats Sister Venus In Wimbledon Final Crocs Go On Sale Halle Berry Becomes the First Black Woman to Win Oscar for Best Actress The Queen’s Golden Jubilee I’m A Celebrity Launches 2003: England Win Rugby World Cup In Australia Invasion of Iraq Begins Starbucks Release Pumpkin Spice Latte Dolly The Sheep Dies Finding Nemo Released 2004: Facebook Launches X Factor Launches Holyrood Parliament Building Opens Greece Win Euros Friends Final Episode Airs Kelly Holmes Claims Gold Twice in Athens 2005: First Ever YouTube Video is Uploaded Tony Blair Wins Third Successive Term Bebo Launches Liverpool Win Fifth European Cup Gender Recognition Act Comes into Effect Doctor Who is Revived 2006: Pluto Downgraded To A Dwarf Planet Kobe Bryant’s 81-Point Game Devil Wears Prada Premieres Twitter Launches High School Musical Released 2007: Lewis Hamilton Becomes First Black Driver In Formula 1 History Apple Announces Release of iPhone Britain’s Got Talent Launches 2008: Wall Street Crash Chris Hoy Becomes Most Successful Scottish Olympian Of All-Time Adele Releases Debut Album 19 Mario Kart Wii Released Camp Rock Released Barack Obama Elected As President 2009: ’Keep Calm And Carry On’ Trend Becomes Popular Swine Flu Pandemic Grindr Launches Kanye West Interrupts Taylor Swift at VMAs Usain Bolt’s World Record 9.58s Sprint 2010: Haiti Earthquake Vancouver Hosts Winter Olympics Coronation Street Tram Crash Conservative/Lib Dem Coalition Lady Gaga Meat Dress Chilean Miners Rescued 2011: Minecraft Released Rory McIlroy Wins First Major Legally Blonde Wins Best Musical at Olivier Awards Osama Bin Laden Dies Jedward Go On Eurovision London Riots 2012: London Hosts Summer Olympics and Paralympics Gangnam Style Released Malala Shot By Taliban Lance Armstrong stripped of Tour de France titles 2013: Flappy Bird Launches #BlackLivesMatter Movement Begins Gogglebox Launches Nelson Mandela Dies Andy Murray Wins Wimbledon Frozen Released 2014: Equal Marriage Legalised in Scotland Loom Bands Craze Who Killed Lucy Beale? Glasgow Hosts Commonwealth Games Scottish Independence Referendum Kim and Kanye Get Married ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Nicola Sturgeon Becomes First Minister 2015: Madonna Falls Down The Stairs At The Brit Awards Holly Holm Upsets Ronda Rousey at UFC 193 Charlie Hebdo Office Attack The Black/Blue Or Gold/White Dress Debate Simone Biles Wins Four Gold Medals At Glasgow World Championships Fifty Shades Of Grey Premieres Paris Agreement Adopted 2016: Leicester City Win Premier League ’Killer Clown’ Sightings Reported Donald Trump Wins US Presidential Election Michael Phelps Becomes Most Decorated Olympian Of All Time EU Referendum The Last Ever T in the Park Theresa May Becomes Second Ever Female British Prime Minister 2017: La La Land Mistakenly Announced as Best Picture at Oscars Manchester Arena Attack Floyd Mayweather fights Conor McGregor Gemma Collins Enters The Big Brother House 2018: Gwyneth Paltrow Launches Vagina Candle Salisbury Poisonings Fortnite Craze Erupts #MeToo Goes Global Chloe Kim Wins Snowboarding Gold at 17 Fyre Fest 2019: Boris Johnson Becomes Prime Minister World Record Egg Dominates Instagram Scotland Make FIFA Women’s World Cup Debut Rami Malek wins Best Actor for Bohemian Rhapsody at Oscars 2020: Covid-19 Declared a Pandemic Scotland Qualify For Euro 2020 Impeachment of Donald Trump Chanel The African Grey Goes Missing George Floyd Murdered Harry and Meghan Step Back From Royal Duties Marcus Rashford Begins Free School Meals Campaign Parasite Becomes First Foreign Language Film to Win Best Picture at Oscars Scotland Becomes The First Country To Provide Free Period Products 2021: Taylor Swift Re-Records Albums Josh Taylor Becomes First Scottish Undisputed Boxing World Champion In 50 Years Olivia Rodrigo Releases Debut Album Sour Emma Raducanu Wins US Open Title Joe Biden Inaugurated as President of USA Y2K Fashion Trend Capitol Hill Riots Squid Game Released on Netflix Josh Cavallo Becomes First Active Male Professional Footballer to Come Out as Gay Britney Spears is Freed of Her Conservatorship impulse Turns 20!