January March 2025 Issue
Empowering Minds, Nuturing Resilience: Your Wellbeing Matters
A Journey of Resiliance
DJ DYNAMIC and his path to Capital
Vanessa Boachie on Mental Wellbeing
Saracens High Students Tackle Knife Crime with AI
Unity Xtra: Changing lives in Haringey
And more...
An interview with Capital XTRAs' DJ Dynamic PAGE 5
Vaneesa Boachie talks mental wellbeing and her organization, Inside Out PAGE 9
How Unity Extra is changing lives in Haringey: PAGE 24 Right2Thrive's Objectives: A Message from Founder Colin LeeOwn PAGE 3
Upcoming events PAGE 17
Founder of T'Inspire Tawana
Blake's story of resiliance PAGE 22
Previous Conversations: Understanding Youth Violence PAGE 14
Saracens High School students use AI for knife crime research project PAGE 19
Where to get help if you're struggling PAGE 29
Today marks a pivotal moment as we
A Message to All Young People
To every young person who has felt marginalized, overlooked, or without hope: This magazine is for you Your experiences are valid, your potential is boundless, and your community stands ready to support you You are not alone in this jouney
Right2Thrive is more than a initiative it's a movement towards radical inclusion, mental health awareness and youth empowerment. We have already seen this impact through community events, partnerships, and advocacy efforts, helping young people find their voice and access support, and through these pages we pledge to challange the status quo, break down barriers and build a future where young people can thrive, in spite of any soical and economic issues they may face.
DJ Dynamic's Inspiring Path from Edmonton to Capital XTRA
“C
an you give us a brief summary about yourself and what it was like growing up in Edmonton?”
I’m D’angelo (DJ Dynamic), a DJ with over 15 years of experience, a Radio Presenter for five years, and recently an Event Organiser. Growing up in Edmonton, I was surrounded by a vibrant and culturally rich community, but it also came with significant challenges like gang violence and a lack of support.
Despite these difficulties, Edmonton taught me resilience and the value of staying true to myself
It became my drive to create a better future and prove that even if you come from what some may label as the “ghetto,” you can rise above and achieve greatness.
"What inspired you to become a music DJ, and how did you land your role at Capital XTRA?”
Music has been the soundtrack of my life for as long as I can remember. From my mum playing pirate radio stations at hometo hanging out at youth clubs and friends’ houses, it was always the one constant my escape and the bridge that connected me with others. I started DJ'ing at just eight years old.
I was never the party type, but seeing how the power of music made people feel good gave me a sense of purpose. To me, music isn’t just sound; it’s a way to create emotions and bring people together and that’s the energy I bring to every set I play
My passion for music and where I came from drove me to work hard, excel my mindset, work on my skills, and seek every opportunity available, which led me to Capital XTRA through The Global Academy This school, owned by Global (the largest radio and outdoor media company in the UK and Europe), offered a Creative Media Production course that I studied. Over two years at Global Academy, traveling for 1 hour and 30 minutes every day from Edmonton to Hayes & Harlington, I managed to show my passion and love for radio and music.
This dedication landed me an 18month apprenticeship at Capital During my apprenticeship, I learned the ins and outs of the business while producing mixes, contributing to radio production, writing scripts, brainstorming creative ideas, and even working on events like the Summertime Ball and Jingle Bell Ball. That experience opened the door to a fulltime role as a Sound Designer, where I created jingles and audio branding for Capital and Capital XTRA But that was only
the beginning; while working my 9to5 job, I started producing shows on Capital XTRA, including The Norte Show with Manny Norte on Sundays all while DJ'ing on Friday and Saturday nights.
"What do you enjoy most about your role at Capital XTRA?"
The best part is the connection. Whether that’s through the music I play or thepeople that get involved, it’s rewarding to know that I’m reaching people, making them feel something or even just making their day better.
"Could you walk us through a typical day in your life as a DJ at Capital XTRA?”
A typical day starts with getting up at 11PM Working at 1 AM isn’t easy to adjust to; it changes the way you operate I drive in and look at selected songs for my show before preparing my content sheet this is where I research trends, find out about artists, and grab something to eat During the show, it’s all about energy keeping people going through the night/morning while showing passion for the music I love. Offair, I’m networking, brainstorming ideas, or working on my mixes Every day is different, which keeps it exciting
"What’s the most challenging aspect of being a radio DJ?"
Staying fresh and coming up with new ways to say the same thing can be challenging since playlist shows have music picked before I enter unless it’s a weekend show where DJs like Semtex or Manny Norte select their own songs
To overcome this challenge, I stay curious always learning and researching by listening to different stations, presenters, and podcasts while staying true to myself.
“Can you share a memorable moment or interview you ’ ve had while working at Capital XTRA?”
My favourite moment was when Stormzy came for an interview; he just walked by me! It made me appreciate where I work even more Sitting at my desk when a 6ft Stormzy one of my favourite artists walks by felt surreal.
“What are your longterm goals in the music industry?”
I want to continue growing as both a DJ and a presenter. Longterm, I’d love to produce music that inspires and connects with people globally, mentor the next generation of talent, and present in front of the camera.
"What would you say to young people living in Edmonton who believe they don’t have a future?"
Your environment doesn’t define your future. You have the power to rewrite your story; there are people out there who want to help. Find your passion, build on it, never stop believing in yourself and one important thing is START YOUNG; if you have an idea, pursue it!
“Edmonton has persistently faced serious youth violence. What do you believe are the root causes of this issue?”
A lot of it stems from a lack of opportunities, community support, and access to positive role models When young people don’t see a way out, they can feel trapped The only famous people they see from the area are those who talk about violence.
What can be done to tackle youth violence taking place in your area?
We need more community programs, employment opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and safe spaces where youth can express themselves and build skills It’s about creating hope and showing them a better path
“Do you personally know anyone who has been a victim of knife crime?”
Yes; unfortunately, I’ve seen people die at DJ gigs due to knife crime it’s traumatizing.
“How do you cope in an environment filled with fear and trauma? How do you look after your wellbeing?”
I rely on my family and friends; I try to distance myself when needed. Watching podcasts and reading nonfiction books help too any way to recharge and stay grounded is something I try.
As a public figure, how do you balance your personal life with your profes sional responsibilities?
This is one of my biggest challenges; however, structure helps me manage this better Building a structure that is simple yet maintainable makes it easier for me to be consistent.
"What advice would you give young people aspiring to become radio DJs or work in the music industry?"
Master your craft; stay authentic; network like your career depends on it because it does! Your network is your net worth Opportunities come to those who are prepared; be persistent and consistent. In this day age you can open doors for yourself so find that motivation!
"How important is networking in your field? What tips can you share for building professional relationships?"
Networking is everything! Be genuine; be
yourself; show interest in others’ work Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there let people know who you are & what you want!
"How can young people in Edmonton listen to your shows on Capital XTRA?"
They can tune in online through Global Player or DAB radio. How do you engage with your audience both onair and offair?
Onair is about creating an escape whether through music or interaction with listeners Offair, I connect through social media & live events.
Thank you! We at Right 2 Thrive UK are so proud of what you’ve achieved despite coming from an area persistently affected by youth violence; you’ve managed to break the cycle!
An Interview with Vanessa Boachie
Championing Mental Wellbeing in Our Community
Vanessa Boachie is a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and the driving force behind Inside Out (Wellbeing), a social enterprise dedicated to transforming mental health support within our communities In this exclusive interview, Vanessa shares her personal journey and offers invaluable insights into tackling youth violence and trauma in deprived areas
"Can you tell us a bit about yourself, and professional background, and what inspired you to become a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist?"
Vanessa: I've always been fascinated by the human mind and behaviour, curious about what drives us.
A pivotal moment came when a close friend attempted suicide It was a wakeup call I realised I wasn't prepared to support him and saw that many others felt the same." "That moment ignited a sense of purpose. I made it my mission to learn how to effectively support others, help them navigate life's struggles, and create the life they want.
"What led you to establish Inside Out (Wellbeing), and what are your aspirations for the organization?"
Vanessa: At 21, I felt a deep calling to raise awareness about mental health. It started with a single event – a space for open conversations to break down stigmas I was amazed when 180 people showed up! Afterwards, everyone wanted to know, 'When's the next one?' What began as a passion project has grown into one of the UK’s leading providers of culturally informed wellbeing support. Seven years later, we are proud to be making a tangible difference. Our aspiration is to support 100,000 people by 2027. We believe
mental health support should be inclusive, accessible, and empowering for everyone
"What are some of the key services Inside Out provides, and how do they benefit individuals and communities?"
Vanessa: At Inside Out, we offer a range of services: Wellbeing MOTs (personalized mental and emotional health assessments), Wellbeing Coaching (empowering individuals to achieve their goals), and Corporate Wellbeing Support (tailored solutions for businesses)
"Have you experienced trauma related to knife crime, either personally or through your work? If so, how did it impact you emotionally and professionally?"
Vanessa: Growing up in Newham, I was surrounded by a high rate of crime This created anxiety, especially about my younger brother's safety I couldn't sleep unless I knew he was home safe. This constant fear led to feelings of community trauma and collective grief I started to feel desensitized – it had become 'normal,' even though it wasn't "These experiences have profoundly impacted me. They shaped my understanding of trauma, resilience, and the importance of supporting others. It’s why I am so passionate about creating spaces for healing and change
"How did you cope with those experiences, and how have they shaped your approach to mental health and wellbeing incommunities?"
Vanessa: Coping taught me the importance of a traumainformed approach. It’s essential to look beyond the surface and recognize the deeper impacts of trauma I’ve also developed a strong understanding of collective trauma and the need for collective healing.
"In your opinion, what are the main root causes of serious youth violence in deprived areas?"
Vanessa: I believe it's a complex issue. Deprived areas face economic challenges, lack of resources, and limited opportunities These are compounded by a mindset shaped by limited access to education, role models, and community support.
"Why do you think youth violence is disproportionately high among young Black males, and what systemic issues contribute to this disparity?"
"What role do local authorities, schools, and families play in creating safer communities and reducing youth violence?"
Vanessa: "The disparity stems from deeply rooted systemic issues, including structural racism, intergenerational trauma and socioeconomic inequality. Limited access to quality education, employment, and mental health support are also major factors "
"What strategies or interventions do you believe are most effective in addressing knife crime and its underlying causes?"
"The most effective strategies involve a holistic approach. Interventions should focus on mental health, physical wellbeing, financial stability, social connections, and access to education and job opportunities Tackling knife crime requires systemic change and community investment "
"How can mental health services, like those provided by Inside Out, help young people and families affected by youth violence?"
At Inside Out, we offer Wellbeing MOT sessions and connect families and young people to specialized organizations
Vanessa: I always say, “When you help one person, you help a family. Helping a family means supporting the community, and empowering the community is how you change the world ” Every stakeholder can contribute through encouragement, mentorship, and providing opportunities.
"How important is it to empower communities to address knife crime and its root causes?"
Vanessa: Empowering communities is critical because knife crime impacts entire neighborhoods By building stronger, more resilient communities and addressing systemic challenges, we can tackle root causes.
"Can you share any examples of programs or initiatives you ’ ve seen that successfully inspired young people to choose positivepaths?"
Vanessa: The Liminality Group (TLG), Juvenis Youth, and Music Next Gen are excellent examples of how meaningful engagement and tailored support can
inspire and empower young people."
"What message would you like to share with young people living in areas affected by knife crime who feel trapped by their circumstances?"
Vanessa: I was once a young person growing up in an area affected by knife crime. Your experiences do not define you. You are capable of achieving greatness, no matter where you come from.
"For families impacted by youth violence, what advice or encouragement can you offer to help them heal and find hope?"
Vanessa: There is immense power in community. Lean on each other, support one another, and don’t hesitate to seek help. Healing is a journey, but when families come together, hope and resilience can grow
We would like to thank Vanessa Boachie for her valuable contribution to Right2Thrive UK Magazine and for her unwavering dedication to supporting our community. Her insights and expertise offer a beacon of hope to individuals and families navigating the challenges of youth violence, providing them with the tools and confidence to cope and thrive. Together, we can create a brighter, safer future for all
A Tale of Two Consultations
Unveiling the Roots of Youth Violence in Enfield
The May Consultation: Voices of the Youth
On May 30, 2024, the Fore Street
Library buzzed with anticipation as twentyone young voices gathered to share their experiences and concerns This pivotal community consultation brought together youth from Edmonton Green, Upper Edmonton, and Ponders End with representatives from the Enfield Neighbourhood Police Team, the London Violence Reduction Unit, and the Police Independent Advisory Group. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as participants painted a vivid picture of the challenges they faced in their daily lives
As discussions unfolded, it became clear that the costofliving crisis, lack of opportunities, and persistent inequalities were creating a perfect storm that exacerbated youth violence in their neighbourhoods.
One young participant remarked, "It's like we're invisible. We're expected to thrive in a system that doesn't see us."
The September FollowUp: Mental Health in Focus
Fast forward to September 7, 2024, and the scene repeated itself, this time with mental health advocates joining the conversation. Their insights added depth to an already complex narrative. The consultations revealed a troubling reality: since 2008, over 13 young lives had been lost to knife crime in Edmonton (Source: Enfield Council Youth Violence Report 2024), tearing families apart and instilling fear and anxiety throughout the community. For many young people growing up in these deprived areas, violence had become normalized.
Statistics Paint a Grim Picture
48% of young people in London feel "overwhelmed by anxiety" (UK Youth Index 2023, The Prince’s Trust).
Young people in deprived areas are disproportionately affected by knife crime (2022 study by the Mayor of London’s Office for Policing and Crime).
Only 25% of young people who seek mental health support actually receive it (Young Minds).
The Birth of Right2ThriveUK Wellbeing Hub
From these sobering revelations emerged a beacon of hope: the Right2Thrive Wellbeing Hub This initiative aims to bridge the emotional chasm that has left so many young people feeling adrift and hopeless.
Key Features of the Hub:
• Culturally sensitive support
• A team of clinical psychologists and mental health coaches
• Tailored workshops to empower young people
• Addressing feelings of disenfranchisement from society
• Employment support through employability workshops
A Public Health Approach to Youth Violence
The community conversations highlighted the urgent need for a public health approach to tackling youth violence in Enfield This approach shifts away from seeing violence solely as an enforcement issue and invests resources in preventative measures, early action, and community spaces.
Looking Ahead: A Promise of Brighter Tomorrows
As preparations continue for the Right2Thrive UK Wellbeing Hub's opening in April 2025, anticipation fills the air in Edmonton For a community that has long felt overlooked, this initiative represents more than just a new service; it embodies a promise of brighter tomorrows crafted by those who will benefit from it
The story of Right2Thrive UK is just beginning. Together, through this communityled public health approach, we can break the cycle of violence and build a community where hope thrives
Saracens High Students Lead the Way: Using AI to Tackle Knife Crime
In an innovative collaboration, Insightful AI and 21K Media recently supported students from Saracens High School in their research project exploring the effects of knife violence on the community. This partnership introduced students to cuttingedge AI tools and highlighted the growing importance of AI literacy in addressing critical societal issues
AI's Role in Tackling Societal Challenges
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how we approach social problems, including youth violence prevention Students at Saracens High School used AI to analyze crime data, identify risk factors, and explore solutions, demonstrating how technology can drive change in local communities.
The project focused on:
• Utilizing AIpowered research tools for data collection and analysis
• Applying sophisticated techniques to extract highquality information
• Creating compelling visuals with AI image generation to enhance their presentation
Root Causes of Youth Violence
The students' research delves into the complex factors contributing to youth violence, recognizing it as a multifaceted societal issue rather than solely a law enforcement concern Their findings align with current public health approaches to violence prevention, highlighting several key areas:
Socioeconomic Deprivation:
Violence is often concentrated in environments associated with socioeconomic challenges.
Adverse Childhood Experiences:
Children exposed to various forms of violence and adversity from a young age are at higher risk of becoming both victims and perpetrators of violence later in life.
Environmental Factors:
Many secondary school children in affected areas are exposed to violent behaviours daily, often in close proximity to their homes and schools
Transition Periods:
The transition from primary to secondary school is identified as a critical period where children may become more vulnerable to violent influences.
Mental Health:
Underlying mental health issues, as well as trauma resulting from violent experiences, play a significant role in perpetuating the cycle of violence.
The Importance of AI Literacy
As AI continues to evolve, it's crucial that everyone, especially young people, develops a solid understanding of this technology. This project demonstrates how AI skills can provide meaningful opportunities for young people With the growing demand for AI professionals across various sectors, developing AI competencies could open new career pathways for youth.
21K Digital Media and Insightful AI: Empowering Young Creatives
21K Digital Media and Insightful AI are committed to providing innovative opportunities for young people in Edmonton Green through their collaborative initiative at the Right 2 Thrive UK Hub. Their program aims to equip local youth with cuttingedge AI skills that can transform creative projects and future career prospects
For those interested in learning more about this exciting initiative, please contact:
As we look to the future, initiatives like this school project play a vital role in preparing our young people for the AIdriven world ahead. By introducing students to these technologies early and applying them to realworld problems, we're helping to build a skilled workforce ready for tomorrow's challenges and opportunities.
FROM TRAUMA TO EMPOWERMENT
The Tawana Blake Story
EARLY LIFE AND CHALLENGES
My journey began in Jamaica in July 1984, a narrative etched with profound resilience and transformation Losing my father at a young age created a void that would dramatically shape my life's trajectory.
The absence of his guidance led me down a challenging path, where I found myself entangled with the wrong crowd in London, holding guns and drugs. The Turning Point lowest moment arrived with a police raid that resulted in a significant prison sentencea moment that could have defined my entire existence.
Instead, I made a critical choice: to transform my pain into purpose and I wanted to make a difference and be the example of what could be instead of allowing my circumstances to
define my future I found myself with the help of the therapeutic services, peer mentor training and opportunities offered inside and connected with my faith transformed my entire existence and my outlook on life
REBIRTH AND VISION
In March 2022, I founded T'Inspire Ltd, approaching the end of my healing journey transforming my personal struggles into a mission of hope, I was inspired working within the care homes of young people, advocating and mentoring in addition to public speaking in youth settings As the Company Director of Prison2Power CIC, my aim is to support
those between 1840 on exit from the criminal justice system coming from a history of trauma and disadvantaged backgrounds in the form of mentoring, employment support, emotional support to those looking to develop their creative side and explore any talent discovered on their journey and as the Founder of Tinspire Mentoring Services, my work is driven by a fundamental belief: every individual deserves an opportunity to rewrite their story.
OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH
Our initiatives create environments that:
• Encourage profound selfdiscovery
• Provide compassionate mentorship
• Offer targeted skillbuilding opportunities
• Promote personal autonomy and responsibility
Transformative Impact Success is measured through tangible life transformations. Two powerful examples illustrate our approach:
1 Young Man's Journey
•Completed comprehensive vocational training
•Secured stable employment
•Became a peer mentor supporting atrisk youth
2 Young Woman's Transformation
•Overcame significant academic challenges
•Received targeted counselling
•Graduated with improved performance
•Successfully enrolled in university
A MESSAGE OF HOPE
To young people facing challenges, my message remains powerful: your past does not determine your future Transformation is possible through determination, support, and an unwavering belief in oneself. My mission transcends preventing mistakes. It's about helping young people recognize their inherent worth, develop resilience, and
create a positive future. Every young person deserves a chance to rewrite their story
"More Than Just a Radio Station"
How Unity Xtra is Changing Lives in
Haringey:
Right 2 Thrive Magazine visits Unity Xtra, a vibrant creative hub in Haringey, to speak with Jermaine about community, the challenges facing young people, and the power of creative expression.
Interviewer: Good morning! I'm at the Unity Xtra radio hub with the talented Jermaine.
''Jermaine, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?'
Jermaine: (Laughing) I’m never really good at answering this question, but I’ll try. Hi, I’m Jermaine, I'm 29 years old and I'm still aspiring to work in the creative media industry I've been aiming to work in this industry for the last 10 to 15 years.
From Haringey Project to Creative Hub
Jermaine: To give you some background, I started an apprenticeship in my teens – around 17 or 18 –with Unity Radio Online. At the time, it was a project set up by Haringey Council, and I came on board through an apprenticeship scheme It was so successful that it grew and transitioned into a social enterprise, and I was part of that transition So, we went from being a project under Haringey to a social enterprise. I was one of the directors on the board at the time, but I still didn't have a clue about business! We learned everything on the job as we were building the organisation Now we literally have our own building, and it's now a Creative Hub. We specialise in recording music, music production, radio broadcasting, of course, we have a podcast suite, photography, journalism, production –anything to do with the creative media and entertainment space That's what I do and that’s where I operate from.
Filling a Critical Void: Why Unity Xtra Matters
'So, what was the main reason you set up Unity Xtra? What needs did you see
that weren't being met?'
Jermaine: When you look at the initiative when it first got started as a project, this was after the Tottenham riots in 2011. It was a time where a lot of young people needed something to do, because there were youth clubs at that time, but it wasn't proactive enough, and you could easily slip into going down the wrong pathway I feel like an
initiative like Unity Xtra helps steer young people away from going down that path It instils skills in them that they never knew they had, such as presenting Unless you’ve been given the opportunity to present, you never know if you have presenting skills.
'With a place like this, we ’ ve definitely seen a lot of development with a lot of young people who never knew they had this confidence within them.'
Seeing that, I feel like it’s a testament to the fact that this does more than just the entertainment side, or the fun aspect of the creative media, radio, and music. It provides lifetransferable skills, so if we can keep that going, and instil that in not just young people, but a lot of people, then this is a place to keep open and to keep going.
Interviewer: I understand what you’re doing, because we’re at an age where young people don’t communicate facetoface; they mainly use their mobile phones and texting. So, providing a safe space environment where they can come and do a radio show, learn to produce, learn to communicate with other young people like themselves, even talk about local issues that concern them, is something unique that Unity Xtra offers I commend you for giving young people that safe space to express themselves in a professional and respectful manner, and understanding how they communicate is so essential, whether it’s going for a job interview, or even communicating with their peers or anyone with authority Unity Xtra does fill that gap, so that’s what I understand in terms of what you’re doing.
Navigating the Challenges: Finances, Funding, and Fighting for Resources
"So what challenges do you face at Unity Xtra?"
Jermaine: The challenges we face, well, number one would definitely be finances. To keep an organisation such as ours going, you're looking at all costings, from overhead costs to your rent, your business rates, the licenses that we pay as a radio station, so in regards to your income versus your outgoings, it’s very far apart. To keep an institution like this going, because of all the benefits that it brings for young people in the climate they're in now, it’s hard, because we could be facing closure based on the fact that none of us come from rich backgrounds to fund our organisation ourselves out of our own pockets I think that's one of the major challenges we face, the financial side of things, to keep the initiative going. A second challenge, I
would say, is getting support from those who can provide that.
'Blackled organisations do struggle in terms of getting the resources and the funding, and it feels like you're more or less left to your own devices unless you know someone to signpost you to someone, and I'm saying this as a Black business owner, in my experience, the playing field where funding is distributed isn't often fair, '
so more times we have to be left to our own devices to find where the sources or the pots of funds are, if that's the case Secondly, even applying for them, I can only speak from my experience and the organisation that I represent: I don't think many of us ever learn how to write bids, so that's already a barrier for us. So, we do come across funding bids that we have to partner up with someone who knows how to write bids, and then negotiations will happen, of course, in that regard Just going back to the playing field, in my experience, I feel like the big funds will often go to commercial organisations, not necessarily from urban communities, and they're not on the ground to deliver these programmes for the urban communities, whereas organisations like us that represent the urban community or operate within the urban communities, we are given limited resources and funding to do the
work that we need to do, but this is the field we have to operate in, so I feel like that's definitely a challenge. But we can't just sit still with our hands folded; we have to still find ways of generating revenue to keep the business going, to find ways to attach ourselves to young people within the community to show them this initiative, what we're doing, if they don't already know about us. So, we really have to do all the work on the ground at 100% capacity.
Youth Violence in Haringey: A Community in Crisis
Interviewer: I commend you for the preservation in terms of what you’re doing at Unity Xtra Now, I want to explore the environment where you operate Obviously, you're actually in Haringey, one of the most deprived areas in the country that have a lot of social and economic challenges, and one of those challenges is youth violence.
"Are you aware of any youth violence, or has anyone you know been caught up in it?"
Jermaine: I think it's fair to say, and it's not funny or even okay to say this, but it's almost a fact that most people within a borough like Haringey probably either know someone or are attached to someone who has unfortunately passed away from youth violence or knife crime. We literally just recently did a campaign with a group of young people. This was through our partnership organisation "Through Life", where a few of the young people had a friend who passed away sadly from a stabbing. So, what they did was we formed a song in tribute of their friend, and how since they've started their journey with "Through Life" as an organisation providing mental support for these young people, they've managed to transcend their feelings, emotions, experiencing going through something as traumatic as that, into making a productive song where it now channels their emotions in such a positive way, rather than using that in a negative way. Because it's so easy to channel that sort of energy in a negative way, as you see around you on a sort of daily basis, and I feel like a lot of these young people, if you actually just steer them in a different direction, take time with them, get them to open up, whether it's through different mediums such as music I'm not going to say most, but a lot of young people probably don't want to do
the whole sitting down on a onetoone support like a therapy session, whereas in a music production setting, you'd be surprised by the amount of conversations they would open up to, about how they really feel, and then put it in a song through their lyrics So, that was a definitely good initiative in getting young people to talk about their feelings through a medium such as music.
Interviewer: Amazing, because I do agree with you Young people are very creative, and you've got to get them in that environment to express themselves, either through poetry, music, even podcasts or anything creative to express themselves Now, you mentioned knowing someone who's been a victim of knife crime. What is so sad is that I've been communicating with my fellow Black community, and it seems to we all have been affected, we would know someone who's been sadly lost their life through the knife crime. I know a young man I went to his christening who was stabbed to death five years ago, so I don't think it's understood the fear and anxiety that is causing within our community. Would you agree with that? Could you explain, or is it my perception, in terms of what do you feel the coping in an environment like in Haringey, you know, which Tivinton is just a few yards away where someone, I think, was stabbed a couple or three weeks ago? Could you tell me more about that?
Jermaine: Yes, I definitely agree with what you're saying. It’s sad to say, but it’s almost like a lot of people have become immune to such tragedies, in the sense of we will speak about this like it's supposed to happen. “Oh, did you hear about the
young person who died yesterday?” Like this is, you know, exciting news, which is kind of crazy, because I don't know how we got to a place in life where we're immune to young people specifically dying from knife crime, not even of natural disasters or health issues. And even if it was health issues, it would still be a concern, because young people dying of health issues at such a young age, a lot of them, so that would be concerning, but as opposed to them killing themselves, how did we get here? And the peers of these young people, they’re immune to it I have been in several conversations with young people where they talk about another young person dying as if it was a series on TV, and that's crazy. So, when you talk on the fears and anxieties, I can only imagine how high those particular things may be, but it's masked by your daytoday actions, because you still have to go to school, you still have to go to work for those who work, or in college, or whatever it is that you do, but yet you still have to live knowing your friend died yesterday, and another friend may die later on tonight. And balancing those thoughts with just already surviving with all the other things that we all as humans have to face,
'Young people feel like there's more pressure that adds to their anxiety and fear, as well as the cost of living, "Where am I going to get my next job?","Am I going to have to live with my parents for the rest of my llife?"'
And they probably do have ambitions to move on, but they don't see how, because of the climate, of the financial state and all these different things. And then especially if you come from an area like Haringey, you're probably prone to cross paths with older people that can steer them into the wrong path, because it's easily accessible, and if they can't see
a way out for themselves with the aspirations and ambition that they have, it can be very easy for them to be drawn into, you know, the wrong path, whether that's through an incentive or finances through these older people that will offer them that they're not getting it other ways. So, that could already be a thing where they know it's wrong, they know this is the life that they don't want to live, but that incentive is so huge for them in this, that they may actually embark on that path, but they don't want to. So yes, I feel like we're in a very dire situation in regards to young people's health, mental state, anxiety, fear, but would they talk openly about it? No, probably not It might take a particular individual and a particular setting for them to openly talk about it, for them for you to start the intervention then. So yes, I agree with what you're saying.
Root Causes and Solutions: A Community Effort
Interviewer: Thank you very much, Jermaine. The other topic I want to go back to is the root causes and solutions I think we have to find this solution; the Black community, who are disproportionately affected, have to find the solutions, and we know the root causes, but I want to hear it from you,
'What do you think are the root causes?'
Colin: Oh, that's a tough question, because I think there would be different answers to this I know it's very complex and it's not one particular solution I look at it from an elder, who’s been a youth worker since 1984. I’ve seen how things have changed for
young people I see in terms of opportunities, I see there's more inequality, where it's harder to get a job. You could go to university and come out of university and still become unemployed, working in McDonald's. I see unemployed men amongst Black men are three times higher than their white counterparts I see a housing crisis, living in deprived areas where most community black communities live, and can’t seem to get out.
'I'm from the Windrush generation, I came over here 1968, 11 years old, so I’ve seen the timeline, and I understand it, so I think it's a lot of it's a combination, with family bonding, because we don't seem to have that bonding like the Windrush generation.'
We don't have the institutions where we used to go and meet. Not all of us go to church, but it used to be a way of getting to know each other. So, one of the things I realised growing up, I knew my community, I know who used to live next door, I know we used it was strong, because we had places
where we could go and meet up
It was an intergeneration, I used to mix with elders who taught me, would listen, because that was an elder, and I had respect Now, I think we are very fragmented, I could be wrong, but I see there's also
the inequality This is my personal view, but I want to hear yours.
Jermaine: I agree with them, you said something that touched on them, whilst I still develop my own thought about what could be the root cause of it. I never looked at the breakdown between the generations, not the closeness, but the support within the generations Now, I don't know if this is the same for every black household, but I feel like it could be a common thread where there could have…
Interviewer: Jermaine, thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. Your work at Unity Xtra is truly inspiring, and you are making a significant difference in the lives of young people in Haringey We at Right 2 Thrive UK wish you and the entire Unity Xtra team all the best in your amazing project, especially in steering young people away from crime and towards a brighter future.
James' Place: Offering lifesaving treatment to suicidal men in London and surrounding area.
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Phone 0800 58 58 58. For young men who are feeling unhappy.
Students Against Depression: For students who are depressed, have low mood, or are suicidal.
Samaritans: Phone 116 123, 24 hours a day, or email jo@samaritans.org
Childline: Phone 0800 1111. Calls are free and won't show up on your bill
PAPYRUS: For teens and young adults. Phone 0800 068 4141
Depression Alliance: The charity offers useful resources for people struggling.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or the effects of violence, support is available. Reach out to these organizations for confidential help and guidance.
