The Kingfisher Issue 3

Fisher FisherKing KingThe The

from the editor

It is my absolute honor and privilege to present the first issue of The Kingfisher for this academic year! Collaborating with the dedicated Monday team has been a truly rewarding experience. Together, we’ve created a vibrant community filled with shared laughter, inside jokes, and multiple moments of celebration.

Every student who contributed to this issue has poured their passion and creativity into their work, and I’ve done my utmost to showcase their efforts in this year’s layout. From fashion insights to interviews with rising racers, and from sports highlights to thought-provoking debates, there’s something here for everyone.

If you’re reading this, you’re part of a special group who knows about the return of The Kingfisher. So, we need your help spread the word far and wide:

The Kingfisher is BACK!

Editors for Writers

Ayanna Onadee Wawulagala

Zarah Rhea Drego

Editors for Content Creators

Lynn Hamouche

Albina Ali

Fashion contributors

Emilia Cukrowska

Eva Veramyeu

Amber Coles-Khan

Leila Baseem Omar

Sport contributors

Apolonia Cukrowska

Ayanna Onadee Wawulagala

Samridh Taneja

Teya Milan Moodley

Sharian Walana

Shabano Malji

Shivaay Ramsinghai

Debate contributors

Aadya Singh

Hasan Malik

Apolonia

Cukrowska Editor-in-Chief

Shabano Malji

Misha Balakrishnan

Book contributors

Mona Al Habtoor

Amber Coles-Khan

Gulnur Handurdyyeva

Additional contributors

Hajirah Uddin

Teya Milan Moodley

Leen Hani

Alia Abdul Kareem

Zara Drego

Mona Al Habtoor

Fashion Sport

Book corner Lifestyle

FFASHION ASHION

Róisín Pierce Beware,Beware.

Who is Róisín Pierce?

Róisín Pierce is an Irish-based womenswear designer, dedicated to combining innovative and hand-crafted techniques. She beautifully uses the tradition of craftsmanship and its interaction with Irish women's history for her designs! Isn’t that just inspiring? her work was showcased at the Irish embassy on her autumn/winter 2024 collection at Paris Fashion Week. Entitled “O Lovely One, Girl That Fell From a Star”, after a poem that Pierce had written with the poet Michelle Freya, the overarching mood of the collection proffered joy and hope in the face of “humanity’s fracture” Pierce says.

Where has her work been showcased?

This theme is particularly relevant in today's world, where fashion often reflects societal challenges. By infusing her work with optimism Pierce invites viewers to find beauty and resilience amid adve appealing but also emotionally resona

Didyou know?

She’s also a zero-waste fashion designer! A ‘Zero waste designer’ isa commitment to creating artful and versatile clothing while trying to reduce fabric waste produced by the hypnotising garment designs. Some zero waste designers don’t have ANY fabric waste!For exampleDiana Eng is also a zero waster!

By:EmiliaCukrowska

Where did she get her designs from?

She thinks of her designs as celestial beings who had fallen from the sky, or goddesses who had emerged from the sea. Pierce listed ancient Roman paintings, Dante’s Paradiso, and Roman goddess Aphrodite - her main inspiration!

She only uses white. why?

Adding to her brand's novelty is its all-white colour palette. It's a choice that symbolizes "femininity and Irish craft" but also serves as a design facet that highlights her handiwork.

Critique:

Róisín Pierce has received some criticism about how easy it is to make her zero-waste clothes on a larger scale. While people love her designs for being beautiful and environmentally friendly, some critics say that the detailed techniques she uses might be hard to apply if she wanted to produce more items at once. This shows that even successful designers have room to improve and can always find ways to grow in their work.

Early Life Early Life

By: Eva Veramyeu

Donna Karan who was born in NYC is a sophisticated, casual, elevated type of designer. She was born and raised in New York City in Queens. She was born on October 2, 1948. Growing up, she loved to draw and design things by hand. Donna's mother was also a designer, and her father worked in clothes.

Starting her brand Starting her brand

After high school Donna went to fashion school to expand her skills. She was soon hired by Anna Klein. Donna was incredibly talented and learnt even more from her. Soon, she began making her own beautiful products.

In 1984 she started her own fashion line called ‘Donna Karan New York’ or DKNY for short. She wanted to make stylish and comfortable pieces for busy woman with style. Her target was to make woman feel confident. She became famous for her ‘Seven Easy Pieces’. Her clothes were very easy to mix and match with all the different pieces and people love that.

IInspiration nspiration

In 1989, she launched DKNY, which became popular for its fun and trendy street style, making it perfect for younger people. Donna's designs often included comfy fabrics and bold looks that women loved. Throughout her career, she has won lots of awards for her amazing work, and she has made a big name for herself in the fashion world. But Donna Karan is also known for caring about people and the world around her. Even though she stepped back from her man fashion brand in 2015, people still admire her and her designs. Donna karan is a true inspiration for many, showing that fashion can be both stylish and practical.

Designs Designs

Her designs, which encourages practicality by allowing versatile combinations that can effortlessly take a woman from day to night. Her collections often incorporate elements of urban chic, blending design with a sense of ease, making them accessible and stylish. Through her work, Karan has empowered women to express their individuality while feeling confident and comfortable in their clothing

Achievements Achievements

Donna Karan's achievements in the fashion industry are both extensive and influential. She launched her eponymous label, Donna Karan New York, in 1984, quickly establishing a reputation for creating innovative and practical designs for women. Her concept of "seven easy pieces" revolutionized ready-to-wear fashion, offering versatile essentials that could be mixed and matched effortlessly.

Karan has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including multiple Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards, such as the prestigious Womenswear Designer of the Year. In addition to her success in clothing design, she founded the Urban Zen brand, focusing on wellness and philanthropy. Karan's contributions to fashion have made her a trailblazer, inspiring future generations of designers and empowering women globally through her vision and creativity.

Fashion trends Fashion trends

The latest trending fashion trends that you need to know

Trends for young p p year include oversized blazers, monochrome outfits and there also has been sleeves, and athlesure Additionally, Vintage-inspired clothing, bold prints, neon colours, bohemi ignificant waves in the fashion landscape.

For men, people tend to focus on rich colours like burgundy, forest green, and deep browns Layering is key: Invest in versatile pieces like roll-neck jumpers and tweed jackets. Suit trends favour heavier fabrics like wool and tweed in darker, seasonal hues.

Teenage girls wear a cropped sweater over a collared shirt, along with a pleated skirt for a chic and trendy appearance If they prefer a more relaxed look, they might go for a graphic sweatshirt, joggers, and platform sneakers.

For teenage boys t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts- often featuring logos or designs from popular brands like Nike, Adidas, and Champion. Jeans are a go-to choice, with skinny, slim, and straight-leg fits being popular. Joggers and cargo pants are also favoured for their comfort and versatility.

Should children be paid to go to school?

Should Laws Be Based on Ethics and Morals or Societal Consensus?

D ebate

debate

By: Hasan Malik

By: Aadya Singh

By: Shahbano Malhi & Misha Balakrishnan AI

The Argument for Payment

Supporters of the initiative, including local education advocate Sarah Thompson, claim that financial incentives could address chronic absenteeism, particularly in underserved communities. “Many families struggle to make ends meet, and a small payment could alleviate some of that pressure,” Thompson stated. “If children know they will earn money for attending school, they may be more motivated to show up and engage with their education.”

Research from various educational institutions suggests that incentive-based programs can lead to improved attendance rates and enhanced academic performance. Schools in certain districts that have piloted similar programs reported a noticeable uptick in student engagement and achievement.

Concerns and Criticisms

Criticisms

However, the proposal has not been met without resistance. Critics argue that paying children to attend school could undermine the intrinsic value of education. “We should be fostering a love for learning, not turning it into a transaction,” said local teacher Mark Reynolds. “Education should be about curiosity, growth, and personal development, not just about making money.”

Moreover, some experts express concern that financial incentives might lead to a culture where students attend school solely for payment, detracting from their genuine interest in learning. “We risk creating a generation that views education as a job rather

Should Laws Be Based on Ethics and Morals or Societal Consensus?

Ethics and Morals Morals

Societal Consensus Societal Consensus

Imagine a society where laws reflect only the fleeting opinions of the majority, where injustice can thrive unchecked because it is accepted by the masses. This is not a distant dystopia; it is a reality we risk creating if we allow societal consensus to dictate our laws. The crucial question we must confront is this: should our legal systems be grounded in ethics and morals, or should they simply mirror societal agreement?

Proponents of laws based on societal consensus argue that democratic governance relies on reflecting the will of the people. In a diverse society, laws that emerge from collective agreement can promote social cohesion and stability. For instance, legislation around public health, such as smoking bans

y y y g p y g , perpetuating injustices instead of addressing them.

On the other hand, grounding laws in ethics and morals offers a more stable foundation in an unpredictable world. Ethical principles, which evolve from deep philosophical discussions about human rights and dignity, can serve as a counterbalance to the whims of public opinion. The abolition of slavery, for instance, was driven by moral arguments rather than popular support. Laws rooted in these ethical standards can protect individuals and uphold justice, even when societal opinions fluctuate.

Critics of a purely ethical approach may argue that it can lead to authoritarianism, where a select few dictate what is deemed "right." Yet, ethical frameworks can be inclusive and democratic, allowing for diverse perspectives to shape the conversation. Engaging communities in discussions about ethics can result in laws that resonate with a shared understanding of justice, rather than merely reflecting the majority’s sentiment. This approach fosters deeper societal reflection and creates a legal system that promotes the common good.

Additionally, consider how laws can shape societal behaviour. Legislation based on ethical considerations can drive significant change. For instance, the establishment of child labor laws arose from a collective recognition of the need to protect vulnerable individuals, despite resistance from industries benefiting from exploitative practices. The eventual acceptance of these laws underscores the power of ethical principles to lead positive shifts in public attitudes and behaviour.

In conclusion, while societal consensus plays a critical role in shaping laws, it should not be the sole guiding force. A balanced approach that considers both ethics and societal agreement can create a more just legal system. Laws grounded in ethical principles can challenge us to rise above mere agreement, ensuring a framework that honours the dignity of every individual while also reflecting the will of the people. A commitment to this dual approach is essential for justice, fairness, and a brighter future for all.

technology debate AI AI

AI FOR - Shahbano Malhi Y10

AI AGAINST - Misha Balakrishnan Y10

Social media distracts people and resets all their priorities to something that might be mundane and irrelevant, this is made worse by the personalization that AI provides, tailoring the content to see to something that would interest you - effectively reducing productivity

This could have a wider impact like: people could start to let their grades drop be overly reliant on ai to draft essays for school or resumes for work. drafting an email writing your coursework

Saves people from having to do mundane, repetitive tasks. These tasks don’t require critical thinking, just minimal errors. AI can help automize these tasks and complete them efficiently.

AI is sophisticated enough to successfully do the work without interference from you whatsoever, however if you continue to this you may become dependent on AI to do your work for you.

This could lead to deficiencies in the workforce or nonsympathetic solutions, solutions that may cross ethical boundaries.

People no longer have to specialize in a single field (education, jobs, etc.); They have time and tools like AI to help them widen their range of skills and focus on more complex/creative aspects - Improves safety protocols by:

Analyzing historical data to identify patterns and predict which areas are prone to crime

Monitoring and predict system or equipment failures

Sifting through vast amounts of data to identify abnormal behavior (cybersecurity)

AI can only formulate solutions based on what humans have already discovered, robots lack creativity, EQ and empathy. Which means that the solutions that they do reach will not be innovative as AI learns from the past it does not have any ideas of the future, it can reach logical solutions, however these solutions might not always be ethical or humane because AI doesn't have morals or any lines they shouldn't cross.

AI can only work towards a goal armed with the knowledge that you ingrain into the code that it is programed with.

if AI is made to be selflearning they can learn how to harm the world instead of working towards an ecofriendlier earth. Companies might misuse AI to achieve personal goals or to produce money. AI could be used as a tool to mint money and foolproof hacking methods. To conduct illegal searches and bypass firewalls. If AI is allowed to develop and grow itself into a sentient being, then humans no longer serve a purpose.

Eliminates human errors and biases by coming to accurate decisions based on previous information and using its abilities to perform high-pressure tasks that are impossible for humans (e.g defusing a bomb)

Advancement in healthcare: AI has been a crucial aspect of recent drug discovery, medical diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans

8.4+ billion devices powered by AI assistants Algorithms can only analyze patterns and probabilities, not context or intent. 55% of Americans said they regularly use AI, while 44% believe they do not regularly use AI. According to research from AIPRM, the most common ways people use AI in the workplace are:

FOR AI FOR AI

Shabano Malhi Shabano Malhi

What AI can do: What AI can do:

Data Analysis: AI can analyze large datasets quickly, identifying patterns and insights that might be missed by humans.

Natural Language Processing (NLP): This allows AI to understand, interpret, and respond to human language, enabling applications like chatbots, translation services, and sentiment analysis.

Image and Video Recognition: AI can identify objects, people, and scenes in images and videos, useful in security, healthcare, and social media.

Image and Video Recognition: AI can identify objects, people, and scenes in images and videos, useful in security, healthcare, and social media.

Automation: AI can automate repetitive tasks in industries such as manufacturing, finance, and customer service, improving efficiency.

Personalization: AI can analyze user behavior to provide personalized recommendations in areas like e-commerce, streaming services, and social media.

Healthcare: AI assists in diagnosing diseases, analyzing medical images, and even discovering new drugs.

Autonomous Systems: AI powers self-driving cars, drones, and robotics, enabling them to navigate and make decisions in realtime.

Education: AI can create personalized learning experiences, automate grading, and provide tutoring.

Gaming: AI enhances game design by creating intelligent non-player characters and dynamic environments.

Financial Services: AI is used for fraud detection, algorithmic trading, and risk assessment.

Zhang Yiming: The Mind Behind Zhang Yiming: The Mind Behind

TikTok’s Global Success TikTok’s Global Success

By:LeenHaniY12

ow TikTok, right? The most popular social media

platform amongst teens, with around 58% of us using it everyday! From 1 billion international users in 2020, to 2 billion in 2024, the surging global popularity of TikTok has seen the co-founder of its company (ByteDance) become China's richest person.

“ByteDance is valued at $75 billion and brings in around “ByteDance is valued at $75 billion and brings in around 1 billion monthly users globally; it is considered one of the 1 billion monthly users globally; it is considered one of the world’s most valuable startups” – Global Leaders Today world’s most valuable startups” – Global Leaders Today

Indonesia has the highest average monthly use of:

Zhang’s background:

In 2009, Zhang started his first business, a property search site called ‘99fang.com.’ He quit the business three years later.

In 2012, Zhang founded ByteDance, a business that provides news services; he created the app because he felt that Chinese phone users were struggling to find relevant information in apps due to the undisclosed advertising with search results. Zhang had the vision to release relevant content to users by generating recommendations by artificial intelligence. Along with Bytedance came TikTok in September of 2016.

Problems Zang has / is facing:

However, there have been deep concerns in some countries about TikTok due to its ties to the Chinese state. While both TikTok and Bytedance insist they are independent of the Chinese government,the US intends to ban TikTokin January 2025, unless ByteDance sells TikTok to a company from another country.

Despite facing this intense pressure by the US,ByteDance's global profit increased by 60% last year, and has proved to show Zang as a successful entrepreneur: It has been acknowledged by the head of the Hurun Rich List that: “Zhang Yiming is the 18th new Number One we have had in China in just 26 years. The US, by comparison, has only four Number Ones: Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk.This gives an indication of some of the dynamism in the Chinese economy. "

Currently…

According to The richest people listproduced by the Hurun Research Institute, Zhang is now worth $49.3bn (£38bn) - 43% more than in 2023. Due to immense success, at only 41 years old, Zhangstepped down from his role in charge of the company in 2021, but he still owns around 20% of Bytedance.

Success:

In just over a decade, Zhang Yiming transformed ByteDance from a startup into one of the most valuable companies worldwide, driven largely by TikTok's massive popularity. Despite facing challenges, ByteDance continues to grow, showing Zhang’s resilience as an entrepreneur. His story exemplifies how a single idea can reshape global digital culture, and demonstrates the power of innovation in today's fast-evolving tech world.

Social Media: the Pretty Social Media: the Pretty and the Ugly and the Ugly

The impact of social media on teenagers’ daily lives

One way or another, social media has woven its way into every teenager’s lives.

By

:ShahbanoMalhiY10

“Comeon,letsdothisnewTikTokdance”' “Dude,shejusttextedme!” “Haveyouseenthatonememe?”

Some argue that the exposure social media gives teenagers is informative and should be promoted,as it allows them to access the world right at their fingertips. Others say it’s dangerous and must be prohibited, arguing that the world is dangerous and they needn’t understand such cruelty so early on. So, really, is social media good or bad? In truth, it’s both.

It’s common knowledge that social media can be harmful to teenagers, but what exactly does social media do to put young people at risk?

Well, to begin with, social media opens the floor to cyberbullying by creating a medium for cyberbullies to spread hate speech and offensive comments about teenagers online. This, in turn, impacts said teenager’s mental health significantly, spiking anxiety and decreasing self esteem. It may even bring about suicidal tendencies in them. Studies show that 53% of teenagers felt social media had a negative impact on their mental health.

Moreover, social media is detrimental to a teenagers’ body image. Teenagers give in to the negativity clawing at them when they see the perfect face, the perfect body, the perfect life on social media, believing the deception of editing and filters. This phenomenon scars them, ruining their mental state.

Furthermore, social media use among teenagers has been proved to shorten their attention spans. Teenage minds grow so used to the brief ten second reels that they struggle to focus for longer periods of time. Also, since many teenagers spend their nights scrolling instead of sleeping, the lack of rest leads to lack of concentration and stress.

For all its flaws, the influence of social media among teenagers has various merits. For one, it boosts their creativity. Teenagers are often encouraged to publicise their talents and creative works (when was the last time you saw an Instagram reel about painting or crocheting? Ten minutes ago?). In doing so, they are given the opportunity to receive feedback and opinions from millions of people online, which enables their chances to improve and build self-confidence.

Another encouraging aspect of social media usage by teenagers is the access they get to educational content, whether it be through posts from news channels or videos explaining atomic structure for a GCSE paper. This keeps them connected to the world and, with so much information available to them, fuels their curiosity.

Lastly, through social media, teenagers have the opportunity to build and maintain lifelong friendships. They get to feel more connected with their friends and open up in ways that may otherwise not have been possible. A study by Common Sense Media proved that 52% of teenagers felt their friendships grew stronger with the use of social media, and friendships are important because, among other benefits, they boost teenagers’ self esteem. Several studies also show that teenagers who don’t have friends are more likely to be picked on, so inadvertently, social media can also prevent bullying.

Ultimately, social media is neither a completely bad influence on teenagers nor an entirely good one. It’s a double edged sword, and we’re the soldiers holding it. In the end, it’s a choice. We as teenagers have the means to either make it or break it.

What will it be?

The Resurrection of The Tasmanian Tiger

by:ZarahRheaDregoY12

After over 50 years of extinction, a glimmer of hope emerges for the resurrection of the Tasmanian Tiger. Driven to extinction in the 19th century by the relentless encroachment of human farming practices and merciless hunting by British colonizers, the extiction of this carnivourous marsupial acts a haunting reminder of humanity's profound impact on the natural world. Now as paleogeneticists make key strides towards resurrection, caution prevails.

“If we can’t protect the species that are alive today, why bring back the extinct?”

The echoes of the past linger, reminding us of what we lost.

Should we attempt to reclaim what we can never truly restore? Or would it be wiser to focus on saving what remains?

Despite ongoing debates regarding the ethical implications of resurrecting an extinct species - especially when the IUCN reports over 45,300 animals teetering on the brink of extinction -paleogeneticists have successfully obtained the transcriptional profile, a complete set of gene expression data, for the Tasmanian Tiger. This achievement represents a monumental advancements in paleogenetics, as it marks the first successful reconstruction of a transcriptional profile of an extinct animal species.

This remarkable achievement involved isolating and extracting millions of RNA sequences from ancient specimens preserved in permafrost. Through this process, the animal's transcriptome comprising all the messenger RNA molecules expressed in its genome was reconstructed.

These sequences provide scientists with an unprecedented glimpse into the genetic makeup of the thylacine and reveal a multitude of biological processes that DNA alone cannot convey By analyzing the historical RNA from the muscle and skin of this 130-year-old Tasmanian tiger, researchers are weaving together a detailed narrative of a species that once roamed the earth, illuminating its physiology and evolution.

Yet, the question looms larger than ever: Is it truly our place to bring back an animal from the dead? Should we be playing god? And even if we can, is it something we should do?

The notion of resurrecting species raises profound ethical dilemmas, especially since its draws funding and attention away from the conservation of living species.

The Scientist published an article in 2018 stating that then when the cost of food was lower an additional $76 billion annually is required to protect endangered species ,meanwhile, projects like species resurrection like that of the Wolly mammoth was allocated $15 million .

Moreover, Associate Professor and Director of DNA Zoo Australia, Parwinder Kaur, raises yet another critical concern regarding resurrection through asking, 'Could the resurrected thylacines even learn how to survive without ancestors to guide them?'. Unlike their ancestors, a chemically engineered thylacine would lack the opportunity to learn vital survival skills from its own species, instead relying on humans or other animals for behavior modeling. This significantly reduces the likelihood that it could thrive in its natural habitat without human assistance

So should we prioritize scientific advancements over the ethical considerations of this animal’s well-being? And can we responsibly reintroduce a species we are almost certain will not be able to adapt and sustain itself independently?

“They’ve had no living thylacines to learn complex behaviours such as hunting from, which we know is important in other large carnivore species” even saysDr Euan Ritchie, expert in ecology and conservation.

Let the past rest, and focus on the present to protect the future. Although the Tasmanian tiger was unjustly driven to extinction, resurrecting it won’t bring back the creature it once was. What scientists create may deceive your eyes into believing what they formulate is the Tasmanian tiger, but its essence its instincts will be forever lost to history. With 45,300 species on the brink of extinction, the real question is: will we wait until it's their transcriptomes we ' re frantically sequencing, trying to reclaim what we could have saved? Act now, before today’s endangered become tomorrow’s extinct.

Hair care

By: Muna Al Habtoor By: Muna Al Habtoor

Oh, we’ve had those moments. Some of us have panicked about our shampoos Oh, we’ve had those moments. Some of us have panicked about our shampoos after our loc(k)s got too dry; others rebelled against their parents to get a after our loc(k)s got too dry; others rebelled against their parents to get a product they thought suited them (despite said parents warning otherwise) and product they thought suited them (despite said parents warning otherwise) and ultimately FAILING with it. Either way, we’ve all been through doubts about ultimately FAILING with it. Either way, we’ve all been through doubts about what suited our hair, and isn’t THAT annoying? Fortunately, I have enough of what suited our hair, and isn’t THAT annoying? Fortunately, I have enough of an interest in cosmetics and beauty care to an interest in cosmetics and beauty care to study the products and ingredients that study the products and ingredients that work wonders for your locks, waves, work wonders for your locks, waves, curls and coils – and what wrecks them. curls and coils – and what wrecks them. (Girls AND boys alike can take this (Girls AND boys alike can take this advice – it'll work for anyone with hair!) advice – it'll work for anyone with hair!)

If you struggle with frizz like I do (when your hair looks dull, dry and wispy) there are plenty of moisturising ingredients that can help it soften and smooth itself out. One popular item is coconut oil! This butter-like fat can repair damaged hair (buh-bye, split ends!), combat dandruff and protect your hair from losing the protein that keeps its strands flexible and strong. However, it’s a heavy oil, so I’d recommend it to anyone with thick hair that easily dries – Afro, wavy or curly – or you can find a shampoo-conditioner set that includes it as a main ingredient. Other suitable oils include sweet almond, jojoba and olive, which are lighter and easier to apply without overusing. It’s usually applied lightly to damp, toweldried hair before you let it dry (preferably without heat, since it damages hair), or as an overnight mask.

In addition to oils, aloe-vera gel is helpful as a hydrating base in many shampoos. It also has a cooling sensation – perfect for beating the summer heat in the shower!

The Good The Bad

Even if you have a haircare routine that’s kind to your hair, there’s still the water to think about, specifically hard water and soft water.

“...Well, what the heck is THAT about?!”

If you wash your hair with hard water (which is what we use in the UAE), it means that it’s high in minerals, making it naturally alkaline. This poses a bit of a problem for our treasured locks because our hair is slightly acidic. Cue the protest from our scalp in the form of BLOOMIN’ DANDRUFF. Fortunately, this is easily solved with a good shower filter and water softener – together, they filter excess minerals to lower the pH scale and remove chlorine, which weakens your hair and makes it prone to breakage. Another solution includes rinsing your hair, as the last step, with a blend of water and apple cider vinegarOh, I KNOW you’re laughing! Hear me out!

Because our hair is acidic, rinsing with a mild, diluted acid would be helpful, which is why apple cider vinegar is recommended as a final rinse – 2 cups water to 2-4 tablespoons vinegar. It's a gentle cleanser, meaning it cleans your hair without stripping oils from the scalp, and diluting makes it mildly acidic, so it can balance your hair and seal its cuticles to make it smooth. This makes it softer and less prone to tangles. Just make sure you wash out your ACV rinse before styling.

If you can’t imagine using vinegar as a rinse, cooled peppermint tea (for the brunettes) or chamomile tea (for the blondies) works just as well – both can enhance the colour of your hair and seal the strands for extra shine! As for brushes... I know, sounds silly to mention brushes, but trust me: If your brush has little bobbles on the ends of their “bristles” ...

REPLACE IT WITH THE KINDS THAT DON’T! I’d recommend a boar-bristle brush; if you have super-thick hair, wide-toothed combs are effective for detangling.

The Frizz The Frizz

Just one word: SULPHATES. I can tell you for a FACT that this is the ONE item that anyone needs to avoid, just because it damages the hair cuticle and strips the oils from the scalp. What happens, dear reader? FRIZZY EVERYWHERE, UGH! If you want to avoid this, you can find sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners that are tailored for your hair type.

“But what if I have oily hair?”

Well, look for items with rosemary, peppermint and/or lavender essential oil – check the ingredients list to be on the safe side. These oils are reputed to balance the oil production in our hair and treat hair loss – plus, who wouldn’t want to smell of fresh clean herbs? If that’s not possible, look for light conditioners (not heavy) and shampoos with a mild cleansing agent like sodium cocoyl isethionate. Also be sure to avoid hairsprays or ANYTHING with alcohol (cetearyl alcohol is a misnomer; it’s more like a wax) - that dries out your hair and... well, you know what happens next.

And heat? That’s drying too! Unless you’re in a rush, it’s better to let your hair air dry, or use a blow dryer on the cool setting. Otherwise, dry on the lowest heat setting and use a diffuserthe point of taking care of our hair is to treat it like a plant, with nourishment and hydration; never excessive heat or damaging chemicals. Plus, it hurts the cuticle – no prizes for guessing what THAT means...

Recommended Products for Each Hair Type

Dry:

Stick to hydrating shampoos and conditioners that have nourishing oils like coconut, shea butter and cocoa butter. It also helps if the shampoo is mild, so that the oils aren’t stripped from your hair. I’d recommend Sukin’s Hydrating Shampoo-Conditioner set – it's rich in coconut oil, shea butter and aloe vera gel. If it helps, a deep conditioning mask of coconut oil and honey can be effective at hydrating your hair; just wash it out with a cleanser before conditioning.

If you have thick hair, co-washing (conditioner-washing) would be helpful – it’s best for girls with dense waves and curls that dry quickly. If you want a co-wash that acts a bit like a shampoo, just to stay with familiarity, try Lush’s Avocado Co-wash – it’s infused with nettle, rosemary and lavender to balance the scalp and hair, and cocoa butter to deeply nourish the strands. You may follow up with a conditioner like Glory – its content in coconut cream can smooth the strands’ cuticles and hydrate.

Oily:

It's best to find a shampoo that gently strips your oils, and a light conditioner that moisturises without being too heavy. I’ve heard that the Tofu Shampoo from Lush is effective; no doubt due to having witch hazel and, YES, rice vinegar. Plus, the silken tofu can strengthen those strands

If you want to be organic:

Why not try clay? ...NO, I’M NOT JOKING! Whether it’s bentonite or rhassoul, it’s effective blended with water and/or aloe vera gel, to hydrate, strengthen and balance. You’d have to perform a final ACV rinse to keep the alkali-acid balance in the hair and scalp, but it’s still simple. For a recommendation, Terressentials is an organic haircare brand with clay hair washes for everyone, from fine and straight to thick and coily; they have a base of aloe vera and bentonite clay to balance and hydrate, NO CHEMICALS WHATSOEVER. That’s Mother Nature for you – she's got something for everyone!

Well-being

School corner

Meaning of Well-being:

The state of feeling healthy and happy physically, mentally, and emotionally. Well–being can mean different people, eating healthily, exercising more and just feeling good in every way you can. Also, wellbeing means different things to different people. Your healthy might not be others' healthy.

IF YOU NEED SUPPORT

If you need support, please talk to well-being counselors You can fill out a form or talk to them personally or even email them at:

Amiee Robertson

I a.robertson@kingsalbarsha.com

Ogadinma Uju Chienyezu Ozuruonye

o ozuruonye@kingsalbarsha com

HOW TO SUPPORT YOURSELF

Exercise - Though it seems like the hardest and most difficult way to simply improve your mood, exercise can make you feel a lot better.Exersise increases the level of neutrophins in your body which scientifically increases you mood by over 70%!

Food! We all love food, which means you should eat more of it, not as in chocolate, chips/crisps etc. But eating the right amount of food cures everything, even if you just do not feel good.

Spending time with family and friends – just having a chat with them makes me feel better, even you.

ALL ABOUT SLEEP

When you are running low on sleep, you will have trouble holding onto and recalling details. That is because sleep plays a big part in both learning and memory. Without enough sleep, it is tough to focus and take in added information. Your brain also does not have enough time to safely store memories so you can pull them up later.

Chronic lack of sleep can also raise the chance of having a mood disorder. One large study showed that when you have insomnia, you are five times more likely to develop depression, and your odds of anxiety or panic disorders are even greater.

Refreshing slumber helps you hit the reset button on a difficult day, improve your outlook on life, and be better prepared to meet challenges.

STRESS MANAGMENT

Stress is part of being human, and it can help motivate you to get things done. Even high stress from serious illness, job loss, a death in the family, or a painful life event can be a natural part of life. You may feel down or anxious, and that is normal too for a while.

There are things you can learn to help you manage stress before it gets to be too much. These tips may help you keep stress at bay:

Keep a positive attitude.

Accept that there are events that you cannot control. Be assertive instead of aggressive. Assert your feelings, opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, defensive, or passive. Learn to manage your time more effectively. Set limits appropriately and say no to requests that would create excessive stress in your life. Make time for hobbies and interests. Seek out social support. Spend enough time with those you love. Talk to a trusted adult or therapist for other ways.

Foreword:

This poem explores the feelings of uncertainty and hope that many of us experience as we grow and change It begins with the imagery of four walls, symbolizing the limitations we sometimes feel, while questioning who we might become in the future

As the poem unfolds, it addresses common worries about dreams and the fear of failure. However, it also emphasizes the importance of hope and courage. The flickering light represents the potential for growth and new beginnings, encouraging readers to venture beyond their comfort zones

The Door to Tomorrow

ByTeyaMilanMoodley8B

Four walls and a door are all I can see, I know who I am, but who will I be?

Shadows bring worries, doubts in my mind, when I look into the future, I’m almost blind.

Dreams feel like whispers, slipping away, A victim of wasted talent, I fear day by day:

What if I stumble? What if I fall?

Will I shine like a star, or just blend in with it all?; Hope flickers softly, like a candle’s warm light,

Yet deep in my heart, there’s still a seed that can grow: With courage, I’ll venture beyond what I know,

For the future is waiting - am I really ready to know?

by: Hajirah Uddin by: Hajirah

ingredients: ingredients:

Vanilla Cake:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/4 tsp baking powder

3/4 tsp salt

3/4 cup unsalted butter room temperature

1 1/2 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs room temperature

1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk or whole milk, room temperature

Vanilla Buttercream:

6 large egg whites

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

2 cups unsalted butter room temperature

2 tsp vanilla extract

instructions: instructions:

Assembly:

Place one layer of cake on a cake stand or serving plate.

2.

1. Frost the top and sides of the cake and smooth with a bench scraper

Top with approximately 1 cup of buttercream. Repeat with remaining layer and crumb coat the cake. Chill for 20mins.

BOOK BOOK

CCORNER ORNER

Book corner

‘5 Worlds’ book review and interview with author

‘The Hunger games’ book review

‘Percy Jackson’ book review

‘A good Girls Guide to murder’ recommendation

‘The GoldFish boy’ recommendation

Travel through the 5 Worlds with Me...

5 Worlds (Graphic Novel Series

by Mark and Alexis Siegel)

By: Mona Al-Habtoor

I'm one of the newest fans in the 5 Worlds Community, but I’m already making fanart and choosing one of the characters as an idol in a series I hope to publish myself. I’m super impressed with the art style and the story - it really is like a “fusion of Star Wars and Avatar” like the authors said, though there are some easter eggs I noted that I'm going to bring up later.

The characters are relatable and genuine, the designs for them are impressive, and I LOVE how expressive they are - seriously, Stan Moon made an amazingly scary villain! Got chills from him, which is great coming from a horror game fan... not to mention, the story behind the Mimic and how it came about in the first place is frighteningly realistic - it really shows how deadly pride can be...

Oona Lee is brave and stands up for others, and she's the kind of girl our world needs more of. I loved watching her Sand-dancing, and her Warrior and Aniforms (little Sand-Warriors) are also wonderfully designed (The Sand Warrior is needed by a Sand-dancer to reach a beacon and light it with the Living Fire). She makes a great hero, and her shyness makes her very relatable. I wouldn't mind her as a reallife friend, but she's just fictional, unfortunately... So I guess she and her friends will be my imaginary friends instead... (The Sand Warrior is especially important because it’s needed by a Sand-dancer to reach a beacon and light it with the Living Fire)

As for An-Tzu, a boy from the streets of Sao Sablo, his loyalty is admirable. While he does try too hard to help others (which gets him into trouble later in the series), you know he does it because he cares. His backstory is incredible and interesting, and he really comes into his own about his fate. His admiration for Jax is cute, and I love that An-Tzu ends up like the little brother to him! Makes me wish there were more people like them.

There’s also Jax Amboy, the Starball athlete, who is my comfort character! As he develops, he becomes more compassionate, protective, honest... he's pretty much the older brother figure in the group. No major spoilers for this character, but I CAN tell you that his background may be inspired by Pinocchio (His professor-uncle's full name is literally Jep Etto – sound familiar?) and Astro Boy.

On world-building, each world is completely immersive, though I’d like to know more about their individual cultures. One interesting example is the portrayal of New Yatta City. It's presumably a parallel to New York, down to its energetic culture and advanced technology. It also reminded me, strangely, of the Capitol from Suzanne Collins's Hunger Games series. I'm not confirming that the series itself was a source of inspiration, but... from the high-end fashion down to New Yattans' lack of care about the True Yattans (the shapeshifters) I couldn't stop drawing parallels between th

Th e, yo th co to tr Pl Fi rs be in th he pe a th he sa ad le he fi

Author Interview: Ivelisse Housman

Dear Mrs Housman,

Going by your book and previous interviews, Iselia "Seelie" Graygrove was inspired by your experiences with autism, and your sister inspired her sister, Isolde. However, who inspired the following characters: Olani, Raze, Leira and Gossamer?

Most of my character inspiration focuses more on how two characters interact, or the dynamic between them, than on an individual’s personality. For example, the sisters you mentioned! Many of Seelie and Raze’s interactions were inspired by the friendly rivalry my husband and I had when we were in high school. Raze isn’t exactly like my husband, but they have similar traits. Until recently, there was very little representation of autistic people having romantic feelings and seeing those feelings returned, so it was important to me to show their relationship dynamic and the way Seelie and Raze grow to care for each other.

The other characters you mentioned don’t have a specific source of inspiration I tried to give them all traits to balance out the rest of the cast!

Besides being an author/illustrator, you're also part of the micro-budget film company This is a Film About Something Productions as an art director, assistant writer and actress - I especially enjoyed Val's Kitchen and Trials of the Riddlemancer. Did making films and shows with your friends, especially Val's Kitchen and fantasy films like Faery, inspire certain moments in the book?

Thanks! I accidentally stumbled into the filmmaking world by marrying a

Thanks! I accidentally stumbled into the filmmaking world by marrying a filmmaker. My husband is the director/founder of the studio, and since filmmaker. My husband is the director/founder of the studio, and since we’re both creative, we end up giving each other creative input on we’re both creative, we end up giving each other creative input on whatever we both happen to be working on. They’re mostly unrelated, whatever we both happen to be working on. They’re mostly unrelated, but in the case of Faery, there’s a chance he may have been influenced by but in the case of Faery, there’s a chance he may have been influenced by reading an early draft of Unseelie…  reading an early draft of Unseelie…

When did you start writing? Not just Unseelie; when did you get involved in storytelling overall?

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember! I “wrote” my first story I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember! I “wrote” my first story before I could write and dictated them out loud for my parents to write before I could write and dictated them out loud for my parents to write down for me. I wrote stories off and on throughout the time I was in school, down for me. I wrote stories off and on throughout the time I was in school, but I started taking my writing seriously as a possible career when I was in but I started taking my writing seriously as a possible career when I was in college in 2017. Even then, writing was something I did on the side: my college in 2017. Even then, writing was something I did on the side: my degree is in Graphic Design!  degree is in Graphic Design!  43

Do you have a favourite character, besides Seelie?

I love them all for different reasons! (Yes, even the bad guys, though I I love them all for different reasons! (Yes, even the bad guys, though I love them slightly less.) But Isolde gets her own Point-of-View love them slightly less.) But Isolde gets her own Point-of-View chapters in Unending (the sequel, coming 2025!) so I’d probably pick chapters in Unending (the sequel, coming 2025!) so I’d probably pick her. She’s smart, chaotic, and recklessly optimistic. her. She’s smart, chaotic, and recklessly optimistic.

What's your writing process like? Do you get elements of the story floating about in your head before they come together, or does the main plot come to you before you know your title? How do you plan your plot when it comes together?

For me, the process is different every time! I’m very visual, so the first thing I do when a new idea starts to form is start to collect visual inspiration. I use Pinterest to help gather all these sources of inspiration that help me start to picture the story in my head. I usually start with characters, setting, and a very vague outline of where I want the story to go, and discover the rest as I write.

How would you feel if you got the chance to have any of your books illustrated, whether by you or others?

That would be a dream come true! I drew the map in the front of Unseelie, but I would love to do even more artwork for future books.

Describe your writing space: It could be your ideal, or it could be the writing space you use more often when writing your books.

I put my writing desk in my house’s sunroom. Even though the house is in the shade, it gets beautiful light all day long. It’s a tiny room with a window seat where my cat watches to make sure I’m working, and a pinboard with cards and photobooth strips and art from my friends’ books hanging on the wall.

What authors influenced your writing?

Authors I read when I was very young, including Gail Carson Levine, Rick Riordan, and Gerald Morris, taught me about having a distinctive narrative voice. More recently, authors of Young Adult books that shaped my take on the category include Margaret Rogerson, Margaret Owen, and Mackenzi Lee.

Thanks so much for responding, Mrs Housman! Best of luck with your sequel –I’m sure many will order it the minute it's published.

Book Reviews Book Reviews

By:GulnurHandurdyyeva

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games is a book/book series written

by Suzanne Collins.

What are the Hunger Games?

Casca Highbottom creates the Hunger Games as an accident class assignment to remind the district about the rebel war 74 years ago. The districts caused the Rebel War because they wanted a better lifestyle than the Capitol. They ended up losing one full district, district 13. Each year, an escort and a winner from your district are provided to help you. The escort for each district picks out one name from two separate bowls for boys and girls. The people must be children aged 12 to 18, and if you are poor, then you can put your name as many times for the amount you need food for your family. Twenty-four tributes are then taken to the Capitol for training and the games. If you win the games, then you and your family are promised to be left alone. You must be the last one to survive. Kill or be killed.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians

The Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a book series written by Rick Riordan that mixes Greek mythology with modern Western life. Percy Jackson is a demigod who quests and battles against monsters. Here’s a sneak peek at what the first book looks like. Percy Jackson arrives at camp with no clue who his father is. Later, he finds out that Zeus's master bolt has been stolen and needs to be returned before the summer solstice. Percy Jackson needs to find the bolt before things get bad.

In The Lightning Thief, the first book in The Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, Percy embarks on an epic journey across the United States alongside his newfound friends, Annabeth Chase, a daughter of Athena, and Grover Underwood, a satyr with a big heart and a mission of his own. Together, they must navigate a dangerous world where ancient Greek gods, myths, and monsters come to life in the modern era.

The story blends action, humor, and emotional depth as Percy grapples with his newfound identity and the challenges of being a demigod. Along the way, he uncovers secrets about his family, discovers his own strength, and learns the true meaning of loyalty and bravery.

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is a mystery novel about the journey of 18-year-old Pippa Fitz-Amobi, who is completing her EPQ. An EPQ is short for extended project qualification, which can be taken alongside A-levels. The book takes place in a small town where an event that takes place seven years before still haunts the townspeople. The murder of Andie Bell by Salil Singh, who had then taken his own

life out of guilt for murdering his girlfriend.

Pip’s journey leads her to go through old news articles, organize interviews, and gather evidence that has been overlooked. As she adds pieces together to the puzzle, she encounters dangerous challenges that put her safety at risk. She discovers that the truth is not easy to find, and it involves dark and mysterious secrets. As Pippa begins her research for her EPQ, she finds herself troubled by the mysterious notes she receives while solving the case. Everyone in town believes in this story, but Pip, a close friend of Sal for many years, cannot change the kind and gentle person she knew to the monster everyone has painted him to be. Driven by her belief in Sal's innocence, she sets out to investigate the case to uncover the truth behind Andie's disappearance and involvement. As it unfolds, it leads to a shocking conclusion that challenges everything Pip believes to be true. Who is the murderer of Sal and Andie? Will Pip find out who is behind all this? Read the book to find out more.

The GoldFish Boy

By: Amber Coles-Khan

One book that I recommend is Goldfish Boy as it is about a boy who likes to watch people out of his window. You will love this book if you like to read books that have a sense of sympathy and being shy. I think it is a great book that tells us that everyone is different, and it also has a mystery because his neighbour's grandson goes missing and they need the reason why.

I recommend this book because it is entertaining and unique, therefor it is extra-ordinary!

Furthermore, the book teaches us to face our fears as the main character- Mathew- faces his by going out of his comfort zone.

Additional best sellers by the same author:

SSPORT PORT

...Upsets have taken place everywhere like Brighton beating one of the best teams in Premier League history, Manchester United 2-1, as they are sitting in 14th. This season all the clubs net spends a combined 629.8 million pounds, a whopping amount! Seeing Players and Managers come and go felt different for all Premier League fans and clubs, but they've certainly adapted to the best league in the world.

Liverpool, sitting and gliding to 1st place so far, have won 6 games and lost one, just about sitting over the 23/24 champions, Manchester City and Arsenal. Will these 3 make a feisty battle to win the league or will someone else take charge? Let's see it for ourselves!

ThePremier league contains 20 teams which battle to be the most successful, by gaining the Premier League title. The bottom 3 teams go down to the EFL(English Football League) Championship, the 2nd division in English Football. Meanwhile, the number 1 wins the league and along with 2nd, 3rd and 4th, they all qualify to Europe's biggest club football stage, the UEFA Champions League. The 5th and 6th team qualify for UEFA Europa League, and 7th gets UEFA Conference League.

Changed fromthe FootballLeague first division, on 20th February 1992, to the name FA Premier League,, following the decision of First Division. It usually lasts from August to May, nearly a full year of fun for all fans! There’s sure to be tears falling down for PL fans, but we can assure you this is what happens! In stadiums, fans will be supported by the pitch-perfect supplies, like food for a lovely game. They'll also find merchandise to proudly display their team spirit, from scarves and jerseys to flags and memorabilia. The energy in the stadiums is unmatched, with chants and cheers echoing through the stands, creating an electric atmosphere.

Upcoming matches

ICONIC Players & managers

A coach for the most successful team in PL history (Manchester United), he dominated English Football from 1986 to 2013, winning 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups and 4 Carabao Cups and 2 Champions Leagues

Sir Alex Ferguson Sir Alex Ferguson

Arsène Wenger revolutionized English football with his focus on sports science, nutrition, and global scouting, discovering talents like Cesc Fàbregas. Despite financial challenges during Arsenal's Emirates Stadium transition, he kept the team highly competitive.

Thierry Henry Thierry Henry

Arsene Wenger Arsene Wenger

Henry’s elegance on the ball and ability to score from seemingly impossible situations made him a fan favorite. Known for his composure under pressure, he delivered consistently in high-stakes matches, earning two Premier League Golden Boots in the process. His enduring influence helped Arsenal redefine attacking football, and he remains a benchmark for modern forwards.

Alan Shearer, often considered the greatest Premier League player, is the league's all-time leading scorer. Playing for Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United, and Southampton, he won one Premier League title and three Golden Boots His record, untouched for over a decade, cements his legendary status in English football history.

GOOD LUCK

DD UU BB AA II

By

Teya Milan Moodley

By Teya Milan Moodley

00 xx 33 00

What is it ?

Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is a month-long celebration of fitness and wellness, challenging you to complete 30 minutes of exercise daily for 30 days (30X30). During Dubai Fitness Challenge, the entire city transforms into a vibrant fitness destination. Community Fitness Hubs across Dubai offer an expanded range of workout options, from running and cycling, to yoga and the latest fitness trends. These hubs bring diverse opportunities closer to everyone, uniting the city in a collective movement towards better health and wellness.

Who created & launched this?

The idea for Dubai 30x30 was proposed, created and launched by the Dubai Sports Council in 2017, specifically under the guidance of its leadership, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. The initiative reflects a broader vision to promote a healthier lifestyle and enhance community engagement through physical activity.

How can you participate in it?

To join in on next year’s Dubai 30x30 fun, all you need to do is register online and get ready to embrace an active lifestyle! Throughout the month, you can participate in a vibrant array of activities happening across iconic locations like the Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach, and various parks. From exhilarating outdoor fitness classes and energizing group workouts to friendly community challenges, there’s something for everyone. Grab your friends, family, or even join a local group, and enjoy the excitement of being part of a health-focused movement.

The community engagment

The Dubai 30x30 initiative actively promotes community engagement through partnerships with local schools, gyms, and businesses, encouraging group workouts and corporate wellness challenges. Public events in parks and beaches invite residents of all ages to participate in fitness activities, while family-friendly options ensure inclusivity.

Participants are also encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #Dubai30x30, fostering a sense of community and motivation. Additionally, local volunteers play a vital role in organizing these events, strengthening community ties and spirit.

How can you help?

Children and young adults can help with the Dubai 30x30 initiative by participating in setting up events and activities. You can assist with organising community sports events, helping to create fun and engaging environments, such as setting up equipment, arranging activity stations, or decorating venues. Schools can involve students in planning fitness challenges and events, giving them leadership roles and teaching them valuable teamwork skills. Additionally, you can volunteer to help with registration tables or distribute materials, fostering a sense of community involvement and encouraging their peers to participate.

Key statistic year

The Formula 1 (also known as the F1) is a series of competitive races which drivers compete in. The F1 season usually lasts 8-9 months.

Formula 1 2024

This year's Formula 1 races took part in places such as: Qatar, Bahrain, Australia, USA, Italy and the UAE. This year's season featured 24 races, which was the longest calendar in the sport's history; Starting in Bahrain on the 2nd of March and ending in Abu Dhabi on the 8th of December. Some of the teams competing were: Ferrari, Red Bull Racing, Mercedes, McLaren and more!

Facts About The F1:

The sound of a Formula 1 car is around 130 decibels

The average U.S TV audience is 1.1 million Drivers in F1 experience G-Force!

The sleek design of the car helps to cut through the air faster

How Do Drivers Get In F1:

By: SharainWalana

To get in the F1, drivers would normally start off with excelling in competitive karting, when they get a bit older, they need to get a sponsorship, join a racing academy or young driver program and then move up the ranks of the Formula 1 Feeder Series and finally make it out of one of the 20 drivers in the Formula 1!

Muhammed Muhammed RaihanYoonus RaihanYoonus

IInterview nterview

Raihan Yoonus, one of the youngest professional drifters in the Middle East, is rapidly gaining recognition with his Instagram account nearing 1K followers @cargentleman).

Originally from the UK but based in the UAE, Raihan has been making a name for himself in Dubai's drifting community. Dive into his journey and insights in this exclusive interview.

By: Apolonia Cukrowska Y12

What inspired you to pursue drifting at such a young age, and how did you get

What inspired you to pursue drifting at such a young age, and how did you get sstarted? tarted?

From a young age I would enjoy watching racing movies and racing influencers, especially drivers like Kent block, because the control he had over his car was unimaginable. It was crazy! 1300, 1400, 1600 horsepower, sometimes even more - just drifting that and the fact that most of his cars were all-wheel drive and yet he still made it look easy – which its not. I know that much. So he just fueled my passion for drifting.

Drifting is a highly competitive sport—how do you stay motivated and focused Drifting is a highly competitive sport—how do you stay motivated and focused when things get tough? when things get tough?

I agree that drifting is a very competitive sport but it's still the start of my journey, I still have a long way to go, so for me how I stay motivated is I focus on myself. I focus on improving my skills, trying my best, I don't look at anyone else just myself and I have an amazing supportive family behind me, so that helps as well, and they're always pushing me beyond my limits. In a good way.

What are some challenges you’ve faced

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a young racer, and how did you as a young racer, and how did you overcome them? overcome them?

So some of the challenges that I faced as a young racer are issues such as anxiety on my first race, because there were about 2,000 people watching, and when I heard my name get announced, I just had a nervous breakdown and spun out. Lost almost all points. But it was a learning experience. Over time, I have gotten used to the large crowds and feel as if the races are just usual training and focused. Another challenge that I faced was mocks, because I was racing in the Emirates Drift Championship during mock season. It wasn't easy to cope, but I managed, alhamdulillah.

How do you balance school, training, and racing? Any tips for students

How do you balance school, training, and racing? Any tips for students managing their time between academics and extracurriculars? managing their time between academics and extracurriculars?

Its not easy, but the key is to manage your time properly. Time management is key. Be organized, and uh have set timings for say practice. Like me, I keep training on weekends in the evening so the weather's not bad. Before I leave for training, I do my work; I do as much work as I can. I do revision on the way there because it's an hour drive. Finally, finish everything on the way back if I have anything else. Uh, but other than that, I'm not doing anything else. I try to keep the rest of my week for school work, instead of weekends so I have some time to practice on the sim.

What advice would you give to someone who dreams of pursuing a career in

What advice would you give to someone who dreams of pursuing a career in sports, but feels uncertain about starting out? sports, but feels uncertain about starting out?

My big my advice for someone who's looking to pursuing a career in racing is to find out which motorsport they like. Is it f1 drifting, rally racing, is it gt3 cup cars, gt4 cup cars, cleo cup racing, time attack hill climb racing, there's just SO MANY types of racing they can go into! So my advice is try to experience all of them and see which one you like the most. If you already have your mind set then research your way into how to get into it, and don't give up. Keep pushing no matter how hard it is.

Who are your biggest role models in racing or life, and how have they

Who are your biggest role models in racing or life, and how have they influenced your journey? influenced your journey?

My biggest role model is Ken Block, as I told you. Just inches away from obstacles it was just mind blowing really, and it just showed me that I wanted to go into drifting because…just the excitement of being inches away from your opponent or obstacles it fuels adrenaline, you know.

What’s a typical day of training like for you, and how do you prepare physically

What’s a typical day of training like for you, and how do you prepare physically and mentally for races? and mentally for races?

My training is usually on the weekends and lasts two hours in the evening, and like I said, I try to finish my schoolwork before I leave on the way there, on the way back. For my races, I prepare by getting into the rhythm, practicing on the simulator, uh, also messing with the settings on the simulator to make it realistic. I heavily recommend investing itno a simulator , because the simulator basically gives you unlimited seat time and it gives you time to experiment. So when I want to experiment I go on the simulator to see how comfortable I am with different types of initiations. Say a weight transfer or a hand break or power slide initiation. It’s an effective tool.

What’s your ultimate goal in racing, and how do you plan to keep growing and What’s your ultimate goal in racing, and how do you plan to keep growing and improving along the way? improving along the way?

My ultimate goal in racing is to be one of the names that are well known in history, such as Michael Schumacher, Eric and Senna, Nikki Lauda and of course Ken Block. Um, there's just so many names to list I can't even name all of them. And I hope to be one of those names. Inshallah.

Can you give me a list of the basic equipment you use for training?

Can you give me a list of the basic equipment you use for training?

The list of basic equipment I use for training is stuff like a simulator and um helmets, of course. Safety is very important. I also use racing gloves for grip on the steering wheel, and I use racing shoes compared to normal shoes because they have a flatter sole, I can get a feel of the pedals better, so the feedback the car is giving me is more easier to understand.

How many hours of training do you have a week and did you do go karting

How many hours of training do you have a week and did you do go karting before going into drifting? before going into drifting?

I usually have two hours of training once a week. I do two hours because of course, I have school and you know all that work; I'm doing A levels, and it's not easy, so I try to manage my time by doing at least two hours of training a week.

I did go into karting before going into drifting, at around the age of 10 or 11, uh, it did help yes, but I feel that karting helps better in normal racing compared to drifting, because the the racing line is way different. For example when you go inside on a turn for normal racing or go-karting you hit the apex, but when you go for a turn on drifting you want to go on the outside. So I belive it depends on what your intrested in.

Have you ever had any major accident/ technical issue, how did you deal with

Have you ever had any major accident/ technical issue, how did you deal with the situation? the situation?

Formula 4 Formula 4 YevanDavid YevanDavid

IInterview nterview

In the thrilling world of motorsport, young talents like Yevan David are redefining the future of racing. Starting his journey at just six years old, Yevan's passion for driving has only grown stronger. In this interview, he shares his insights on overcoming challenges, balancing academics with racing, and the importance of relishing the journey toward realizing one’s dreams.

By: Ayanna Wawulagala Y12

What inspired you to pursue drifting at such a young age, and how did you get

What inspired you to pursue drifting at such a young age, and how did you get sstarted? tarted?

I started racing at a very young age at around six years old and I just fell in love with the feeling of driving and being quick and as a six-year-old kid I was just amazed, and I wanted to do just that for the rest of my life. Lewis Hamilton and F1 really inspired me to make me think- what if I could be the best in the world day?

Drifting is a highly competitive sport—how do you stay motivated and focused

Drifting is a highly competitive sport—how do you stay motivated and focused when things get tough? when things get tough?

Things can get very tough easily. A big example is this season, it was a very tough season, and I wasn't getting the results I wanted even though I was working as hard as possible. But the way I stay focused and motivated is I know that if I do the right things. If I put the work in and I keep my head up, the time will come for me, and I only focus on what I can control and that makes me more relaxed.

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a young racer, and how did you

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a young racer, and how did you overcome them? overcome them?

There's been many challenges, especially when things aren't going well on a weekend, and the pressure is on, and you just get into these tense moments where you want to do well, and things aren't working. You're doing everything you can, but you just have to stay calm and composed and I guess those moments are the toughest moments in racing.

How do you balance school, training, and racing? Any tips for students How do you balance school, training, and racing? Any tips for students managing their time between academics and extracurriculars? managing their time between academics and extracurriculars?

Balancing racing and academics is not easy. I'm doing A-levels right now and I’m also a full-time racing driver. Of course, there's many difficulties, but my advice would just be when you race or when doing a specific activity, you fully focus on that. When you're doing school or whatever else you're doing, you fully focus on that. You don't do 50/50, you do 100 of what you do. That's what really helps me manage my time is whatever I do, I do that thing efficiently and therefore I get the results I want and then it isn't delayed or anything like that. That really helps me balance things.

What advice would you give to someone who dreams of pursuing a career in

What advice would you give to someone who dreams of pursuing a career in sports, but feels uncertain about starting out? sports, but feels uncertain about starting out?

My advice to the younger crowd would just be to enjoy whatever you choose to pursue, but also have the passion in your heart to do whatever it takes to get to the top. There are going to be moments where you don't want to look at the sport and there are going to be moments where you want to do it for the rest of your life or whatever you're pursuing, whether you want to be a writer, an athlete, whatever it is, you just have to enjoy the process and have the passion to do whatever it takes to get to the top.

Who are your biggest role models in racing or life, and how have they

Who are your biggest role models in racing or life, and how have they influenced your journey? influenced your journey?

My parents and Lewis Hamilton. The three of them gave me the guidance in racing and gave me the tips that I needed to be successful my complete self and although I'm not very close with Lewis Hamilton, I still look up to him a lot and my parents who have played a big role in my life on and off track.

What’s a typical day of training like for you, and how do you prepare physically

What’s a typical day of training like for you, and how do you prepare physically and mentally for races? and mentally for races?

A typical day would be driving on the simulator and going to the gym. Usually do these two activities every day, maybe go for a run instead and doing academics during the day, so studying and going for classes. Just doing these things to stay productive and then in my downtime spending time with family and maybe watching some Netflix.

What’s your goal in racing, and how do you plan to keep growing and What’s your goal in racing, and how do you plan to keep growing and improving along the way? improving along the way?

My ultimate goal is to reach Formula One and be the first Sri Lankan driver to do it and that's been my dream ever since I was six years old, ten years ago. I have been on this journey for a while and it's still going to be my goal to be there and I'm ever growing. I'm a better driver than I ever was and I'm going to keep improving to get there. That is my goal for Formula 1, and I must thank everyone that has supported me so far and that is willing to support me to get there.

Yevan David's ambition to become the first Sri Lankan driver in Formula 1 is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His journey reminds us that success is not just about winning but also about resilience and commitment. As he continues to chase his dreams, we look forward to following his progress and hope his story inspires fellow students to pursue their passions!

The

April 6th, 1896, marks the opening day of the first ever Olympics. 280 athletes (all male) from twelve total countries had gathered in Athens, competing in 43 events over the course of nine days. Over 60,000 people came excitedly to watch on the opening day. There were gracious banquets and colourful parades for the foreign athletes. It was a good few weeks that enforced world connectivity through a shared love for sport.

Fast forward to the summer of 2024, the Paris Olympics was far more grand in scale. Around 10,500 athletes from 206 nations gathered in France to compete, with over 500,000 people gathered to spectate and cheer them on.

However, the sheer size of these events results in a devastating impact on the climate; with excessive use of plastic, materials to build venues, and loss of green spaces to make room for venues only being a few potential outcomes. Consequently, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) devised a series of strategies to reduce the environmental impact with the help of the Olympic Agenda 2020.

Built on the pillars (Credibility, Sustainability, and Youth), the Olympic Agenda 2020 is a set of detailed recommendations that aim to preserve the Olympic values and strengthen the role of sport in society in a sustainable and impactful way. It is responsible for setting the target of cutting the footprint of the Paris 2024 Olympics by 50 percent compared to the London 2 th th Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

By using temporary or preexisting venues, the IOC works towards meeting its footprint target. From the Stade de France to the Saint Quentin Velodrome (and many others) - 95% of the Games' venues are either preexisting or temporary (temporary venues will be dismantled for future use after the Games). In fact, only two venues were built to support community needs, and even then, sustainable choices were made every step of the way.

Completed in early April of this year, the Aquatics Centre was built with careful consideration of its environmental footprint. The seats are made of recycled bottle caps, and notably, it has a 4680 sq. metre solar panel roof that covers roughly 20 percent of the venue's electricity. Even the frame and structure is made solely with bio-sourced materials like French Wood, and includes outdoor air filtration to reduce its environmental impact. In July 2025, the Aquatics Centre will open to the public as a multi-sports facility ensuring that its creation serves community requirements.

The Olympic Village was built with equal consideration. For instance, 94% of construction materials used have been recovered from deconstruction. The residential complex also includes 6 hectares of green space, and a geothermal cooling system. Additionally, 15 percent of the neighbourhood's electricity is provided through photovoltaic energy from solar panels on the rooftops of the Olympic Village.

Notably - 100 percent of the energy used for the Olympics is renewable and locally sourced. All venues are connected to the grid, which eliminates the need for temporary diesel generators. The catering has also been adjusted in honour of the Olympic Agenda 2020. The amount of plant-based food served has doubled, halving the carbon footprint of meals. Single use plastic is also being reduced in catering by 50 percent. Additionally, after the Games, all of the catering equipment will be reused.

All Olympics venues are accessible by public transport, which reduces carbon emissions and promotes more sustainable modes of transport within the community. The venues can be reached by a 418 kilometre cycle lane network, including 88 kilometres of new protected routes and bicycle parking at each of the venues. Additionally, 80 percent of the venues are located within a 10km radius of the Olympic Village.

Minimising the use of new resources and ensuring equipment can be reused plays a substantial role in the IOC's commitment to sustainability. Detailed planning has gone into mapping the required and existing amount of resources to reduce new resource use. 90 percent of equipment and goods have been guaranteed a second life. And notably, three-quarters of sports equipment is rented or provided by sports federations.

These measures set the Paris 2024 Olympics apart. This year's Olympics in particular highlight the importance of responsibility and innovative thinking to make an impactful change. Paris 2024 is undeniably going to become a stepping stone for future Olympic events. Here's to sustainable sports!

An added bonus - all Olympic medals are made entirely from recycled mat

The Olympics Favourite The Olympics Favourite

Curse on... Curse on...

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FFigureSkating igureSkating

Being the favorite in Olympic figure skating, particularly in the ladies' discipline, can be

Being the favorite in Olympic figure skating, particularly in the ladies' discipline, can be both a blessing and a curse. Since 2014, every favored skater has faced unexpected both a blessing and a curse. Since 2014, every favored skater has faced unexpected challenges that prevented them from winning gold. challenges that prevented them from winning gold.

Figure Skating OverviewFigure skating is a blend of athleticism and artistry, judged on five key areas:

1.Performance and Artistry: Skaters must express emotion through their movements.

2. Choreography and Costuming: The routine must be well-executed and the costumes suitable.

3. Jumps: Skaters perform complex jumps, with the highest level featuring triples and quads.

4. Spins: Various spin positions are judged, including advanced flying spins.

5. Choreographic Sequences: Elements performed between jumps and spins are essential.

Competitors perform two programs: a 2.5-minute short program and a 4-minute free skate. Dominant countries include Russia, the USA, and Japan, though Russian skaters have recently faced bans.

Notable Olympic Moments Notable Olympic Moments

1.2014SochiOlympics:

Yuna Kim, the defending champion, led after the short program but lost gold to Adelina Sotnikova, who had a controversial performance marked by a fall and allegations of rigged judging. The incident sparked outrage and conspiracy theories about the judging system, culminating in Kim's retirement.

2.Emergenceof‘3A’:

In the subsequent seasons, a new group of young skaters known as "3A" emerged, including Aliona Korstonia, Anna Shcherbakova, and Alexandra Trusova. These athletes showcased ultra-technical elements like quads and triple axels, with Trusova being the first woman to land several quad jumps.

3.EteriTutberidze'sCoaching:

Eteri Tutberize is a prominent coach who has trained multiple Olympic champions. Her rigorous methods have drawn criticism for their intensity and focus on maintaining a lightweight physique. However, she has pioneered the inclusion of quadruple jumps in ladies' competitions.

The2018PyeongChangOlympics:

The rivalry between Evgenia Medvedeva and Alina Zagitova stole the spotlight. Both were coached by Tutberize and competed intensely for top spots. Zagitova ultimately won gold, while Medvedeva claimed silver, marking a significant moment in their careers.

2022BeijingOlympics:

At the Beijing 2022 Olympics, drama erupted in ladies' figure skating surrounding Russian athlete Kamila Valieva. The 15-year-old favorite tested positive for a banned substance, trimetazidine, just before the Games, leading to controversy over her participation.

Despite the positive test, the Court of Arbitration for Sport allowed her to compete in the individual event. The intense scrutiny and pressure seemed to impact her performance; she excelled in the short program but faltered in the free skate, finishing fourth.

The situation raised significant discussions about athlete welfare, especially for minors, and highlighted concerns about coaching practices and the pressure placed on young competitors. Additionally, the postponement of the medal ceremony for the team event added to the controversy, emphasizing issues of fairness and integrity in the sport.

Following the competition, Trusova (valievas teammate and trained by Tutberize) made headlines with her emotional outburst, stating she was "not going to compete anymore" and expressing feelings of being let down by the system and the coaching methods employed. Her comments underscored the intense emotional strain that athletes endure, especially in such a competitive and high-stakes environment.

And in the end even after all the world records and the intensity Kamila finished 4th and was broken. Trusova finished second crying and swore to never come back, Anna finished first but described the feeling of winning as empty.

Overall, the narrative of favored skaters struggling under pressure continues to shape the landscape of Olympic figure skating, underscoring the intense competition and drama inherent in the sport.

Update: the court for arbitration for sport has announced its verdict and valieva is facing a 4 year ban Alexandra trusova has returned to the sport and eteri has a new army