Xplode Magazine by Youth Leads UK | Autumn 23

INSIDE: WELL-BEING TRAVEL FASHION MUSIC

BROUGHT TO YOU BY WELCOME

Welcome to Xplode Magazine. Xplode is published by Youth Leads UK - the charity that gives young people like you the opportunities, information and guidance to improve your life chances. We run a number of leadership programmes for young people across Greater Manchester - they take part in skills development workshops, hear from industry experts and complete their own social action projects. They also produce this magazine showcasing their writing, photography and management skills in this magazine.

We’re not just a magazine either - we get the voices of young people heard and acted upon. We believe in a country where youth leads, and we challenge decision-makers to make sure that decisions about young people involve young people. Because of this, we’re a registered charity helping thousands of young people across Greater Manchester.

All our volunteers take pride in what they do, and we are so proud to have been recognised by Her Late Majesty the Queen, who gave us an award for what we do!

To learn more, join the team or donate, check out our website youthleads.uk

Enjoy the magazine!

VOLUNTEER VOICE

Layla - “The Leadership Programme has opened so many opportunities for me and has given me the confidence to chase what I want to achieve!”

Ruqayya - “As someone who wants to go into a career in media, I was given the opportunity to write articles, hear from experts in the field and learn key skills. I’ve made great friends and learnt skills that I will take with me throughout my life.”

DISCLAIMER

Youth Leads UK, registered charity 1155789 strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information. If you have seen any mistakes or anything that you are not happy with then please email us: info@youthleads.uk

All information is correct at the time of print and any unauthorised copying or reproducing of Youth Leads UK’s content will constitute an infringement of copyright.

Youth Leads UK and Xplode Magazine 2023.

CONTACT DETAILS

Youth Leads UK White Media City UK Salford

M50 2NT

E: info@youthleads.uk

T: 0330 1200 619

SINCE LAST TIME...

CARE-EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME

WHY YOU SHOULD LOVE MUSIC? 4

We’ve launched a leadership programme for young people who are care experienced, providing them with valuable knowledge, skills, and opportunities to set them up for success.

BIG EDUCATION CONVERSATION

HELPING WITH KINDNESS

14

THE CLIMATE CRISIS EXPLAINED 22

We’re facilitating the Big Education Conversation Project Council - a group of young leaders who are shaping a new direction for education and learning in England.

CIVIC LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME

FINDING YOUR FIT

32

We’re delivering an exciting, year-long project which will see our youth steering group produce a resource to support young people into civic leadership roles.

WHY SHOULD YOU LOVE MUSIC?

By Olivia Niamkey

Summer is here, so let’s introduce you to some music! Melodies and rhythms have the power to explore emotions and connect with people in a way other things cannot. Music can make us feel happiness, sadness, and calmness all at once. It can inspire us to think, build, and express ourselves. Music also has the ability to bring people together and create a sense of community through shared experiences. Furthermore, research has shown that listening to music can have numerous benefits, such as:

• Better mental health

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Improving our mood

• Helping us sleep better

Here are some suggestions of songs you can listen to when you’re feeling...

Happy:

• “Happy” - Pharrell Williams.

• “Fly Girl” - Flo.

• “Kiss Me More” - Doja Cat ft SZA.

• “Likey” - Twice.

Sad:

• “Friends” - Laundry Day.

• “Normal Girl” - SZA.

• “Everything I Wanted” - Billie Eilish.

• “Still With You” - Jung Kook.

Calm:

• “Snooze” - SZA.

• “CPR” - Summer Walker.

• “Attention” - New Jeans.

• “Mad Over You” - Runtown.

Energetic:

• “America Has A Problem” - Beyonce.

• “Pas Comme Ca” - Tayc & Tiakola.

• “Look Don’t Touch” - Odetari & Cade Clair.

• “Princess Diana” - Ice Spice & Nicki Minaj.

I hope you enjoy these songs and let the power of music uplift your spirits this summer!

LETS GET EVOLVED IN FASHION

By Ayesha Khan

Fashion is a form of self-expression and creativity, but we cannot ignore its impact on the environment and workers’ rights. As young individuals, we have the power to reshape the fashion industry and drive positive change. Here are some ways you can stay stylish while being ethical.

Choosing Quality Over Quantity

Sustainable fashion encompasses practices that consider the environmental, social, and ethical impacts of the fashion industry. One key aspect of sustainable fashion is shifting our mindset from quantity to quality. Investing in well-made, durable clothing that can be worn for years minimises our ecological footprint and contributes to a more equitable industry. So, look for garments made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fibers.

Using Secondhand and Vintage Fashion

Exploring secondhand and vintage fashion is a great way to reduce waste and add unique pieces to your wardrobe. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms like Vinted offer a treasure trove of pre-loved clothing waiting to be rediscovered. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and contribute to a circular economy by giving new life to garments that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Finding Ethical and Transparent Brands

It is essential to support brands that prioritise ethical and sustainable practices. Look for brands like Mother of Pearl that are transparent about their supply chains, ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers, and minimise their environmental impact. Check for certifications such as Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), or B-Corporation to identify brands committed to sustainability and social responsibility.

Renting and Sharing

Consider renting clothes for special occasions or subscribing to clothing rental services. This reduces the need for purchasing new items that may only be worn a few times. Sharing clothes with friends or participating in clothing swaps is another fun and sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without contributing to excess consumption.

Supporting Local Designers

Supporting local and independent designers promotes sustainability and fosters a unique fashion culture. By purchasing from smallerscale producers, you contribute to a more diverse and eco-conscious fashion industry while directly supporting artisans and creatives in your community.

Remember, fashion can be a force for positive change. By making conscious choices, we can transform the industry and create a more sustainable and ethical future.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED IN POLITICS

When it comes to anything political, it’s easy to become cynical and pessimistic. It seems that no matter what, people, especially young people, can’t do much to actually have an impact. While this feeling is understandable, there are still ways that you can make a real difference.

By Davian Mendez Jones

Do Your Research

Knowledge is power, especially in politics. The easiest way to learn these days is, of course, through the internet. While researching issues on the internet, it’s important to remember that every source you learn from will be biased in one way or another. The best way to counteract this is to engage with a wide variety of sources on issues to ensure that you’re getting a balanced and representative view. Once you know more about issues, you can act upon that knowledge and begin to make a difference.

Interact with Lawmakers

The main job of elected lawmakers is to represent you, so they care about what you have to say. You can interact with both members of Parliament and local lawmakers in several ways. You can contact their teams on social media, send them emails, and even write them letters. Beyond that, you can also interact with lawmakers face-to-face by attending what’s known as a surgery, which is a series of one-to-one meetings with a lawmaker.

Another way you can interact with lawmakers is with petitions. You can sign or create an official petition (which can be debated by MPs) to Parliament at petition.parliament.uk. You could also make a paper petition or visit www.change.org to create an online petition.

Get Involved with Political Groups

You don’t need to get involved in politics by yourself! There are several political and non-profit groups that you can join that care about the same issues you do. This could be one of the major political parties in the country or a local group focused on smaller-scale issues. Political groups can help organise activities such as protests or mass petitions which can have more impact due to their scale. These groups will also provide opportunities to meet people who care about making a difference as much as you do.

Voting

Voting is the most accessible way people can have an impact, as it allows you to choose who represents you. You can vote in numerous elections, besides just elections to Parliament. When it comes to the dates of local elections, keep an eye out for announcements from your local council or other political body. Finally, don’t forget that a photo ID is now required to vote at polling stations. If you don’t have a photo ID, you can apply for one for free. You can learn more about this requirement by visiting the Electoral Commission’s website.

HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF TRAVELLING

By Yordanos Ermias

Travelling around the world can be adventurous and exciting. It can be a great way to improve your overall health, broaden your horizons and make unforgettable memories. It will also improve your transferable skills, push you to learn about other cultures and help you catch a break from your busy routine. It may seem exciting when you travel with your loved ones, but most people forget that travelling alone can be equally thrilling. It pushes you to step out of your comfort zone and overcome your fears. As you travel around the places in this world, you’ll always find something to take that etches a mark in your heart. This will motivate you to make the next trip even more exciting and fun to feel the same euphoria again. Also, if you have a well-planned trip, it will allow you to live in the moment even more easily. So here are my top tips to get the most out of travelling:

Book Flights Earlier

Booking your flight at least 4-6 months pre travel can help you save a lot of money which you can spend on other things on your trip. Most airlines release their flight schedule a year ahead of time so look out for the best deal for you. Don’t leave it till the last minute. Skyscanner is a website you can use to book your flights as it allows you to compare different flights in terms of travel time and cost.

Pre-Book Activities and Tours

It is cheaper to book tours and attractions in advance. It saves you the hassle of queuing to purchase a ticket and the last thing you want is to find out the tickets have been sold out! The top two top sites for pre booking are GetYourGuide and Viator. This will help you save your time and money on your trip.

Don’t Over Plan Your Trip

Yes, planning a trip down to every minute detail can be helpful but you also need to learn to go with the flow. So, if something doesn’t go according to your plan, you wouldn’t be disheartened or frustrated. There will be times during your trip where things will not go to plan and that’s absolutely okay. Remember some of our best travel adventures and memories can be completely unexpected.

THE MANCHESTER’S RISING STAR FUND

We Love MCR Charity has an aim to improve your future opportunities and remove as many barriers as possible. They are excited to be funding young people up to £5,000 to help them to achieve their potential. Manchester’s Rising Star Fund supports vital equipment, training and resources to enable you to take your next steps to success in work, qualifications or entrepreneurship.

To apply you must be 15 - 22 (or up to 25 with lived experience of homelessness) and living in the City of Manchetser. Your ambition or goal must be around around employment, education, training or entrepreneurship. This fund is specifically for you if you are unable to access funds due to personal or family circumstances

More information and extended criteria can be found on at: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-RisingStars

If you’re successful you will need to feedback to the WLMC about how your award is supporting your ambition. You’ll do this twice within a year of being awarded.

Scan the QR code to access the application and good luck!

Here’s some information about previous successful applicants:

Nia, who has suffered significant hardship but is determined to grow her party event equipment hire business. The fund was able to award her the equipment she needs to take her business to the next level

Rachel, a young broadcaster who applied for the kit she needs to grow her talents and brand - We Love MCR are really looking forward to featuring in her podcast soon!

The fund has also supported a young boxer on his way to represent England and hopefully GB - the support will maximise his chances of getting on the podium at the commonwealth and Olympic games!

Below are the deadlines to apply until the end of 2023:

• 25th September 2023

• 2nd November 2023

• 27th November 2023

• 8th January 2024

More deadlines will be released so keep checking the Manchester’s Rising Star Fund webpage!

Please get in touch with We Love MCR via email (welovemcrcharity@manchester.gov.uk) if you have any questions.

NAVIGATING A-LEVELS: ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Getting through A-levels can be a challenging time for many students. It can be a stressful period of time that requires focus, dedication and discipline. Here are some tips to help you

By Theresa Kini

• Create a Study Schedule - Plan out your time to ensure that you are dedicating enough time to each subject.

• Stay Organised - Keep your notes, textbooks, and other study material organised and easily accessible.

• Take Breaks - Don’t forget to take breaks to rest your mind and recharge your batteries. It can help to take a short walk, practice mindfulness or do some light exercise.

• Ask for Help - Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you are struggling with a subject or topic. Reach out to your teachers, tutors or peers.

• Practise Past Papers - Practise past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and to identify areas that you need to work on.

• Stay Positive - Stay positive and believe in yourself. You are capable of achieving great things.

By following these tips, you can get through A-Levels with confidence, knowing that you have done your best. You can transform the challenging period into a more positive and rewarding experience. A well-structured study schedule, combined with an organised approach and regular breaks, will enhance your productivity and reduce stress levels. Seeking help when needed and practising past papers will boost your confidence. Maintaining a positive mindset will empower you to overcome obstacles and achieve your full potential. Embrace these strategies and embrace the transformative power they hold in making your A-levels a truly positive and successful endeavour.

get through it:

By Layla Sibanda

ACCEPT BEING DISLIKED: IT’S OKAY!

I feel like this title will cause some sort of confusion and discomfort to people. Who doesn’t want to be well liked and respected by others? I understand that being accepted by others can be really important, but it’s good to realise that not everyone will do that,and not everyone will understand you. Hopefully, this short article can provide some comfort and confidence on how to embrace being disliked.

Growing up, I’ve always been deemed as a friendly and open person, which made other people like me. I loved the validation I got, that “it’s hard to dislike me” and that people can only see the good in me, and nothing else. I got comfortable being in that position and continued to keep that mindset, until high school. Adjusting into high school was pretty difficult for me, with the new faces and groups I had to get used to, and putting myself out there - something I was never confident in. Even when I did, I quickly realised that things are different here, and some people seem to not be fond of me, and would avoid me. I became really upset and insecure about the fact that something about me - my physical appearance, interests and personality - has caused me to be disliked. It was difficult to accept, when all my life I’ve been well-liked and it took a toll on my mental health. However,

through some self-reflection and interactions with other people I realised it wasn’t the case: there were people who liked me, and wanted to talk to me, it’s just that some don’t. Now, I’ve accepted that not everyone will like me, and I continue to talk and put myself out there, with a mindset on if it works, it works and if it doesn’t then that’s okay too.

Here are some tips to use when you’re struggling:

• Focus on the people who do value and like you

• Do stuff you enjoy to develop a sense of confidence

• Prioritise yourself and your mental health, enjoy your own company

• You should be allowed to be yourself, with the right people

• Ignore opinions from people who don’t know you

HELPING WITH KINDNESS

By Betelham Tsehaye

There are millions of people out there struggling every day. They are waiting and hoping for someone to help them escape their worries even if it’s just for a moment. Most of us think we need money or resources to help people but that might make us reluctant. We are taught and told to help people, but we don’t know how or where to start. To help, being human is enough, so here are some ways you can show kindness to someone:

• Tell someone you care about how much you love and appreciate them.

• Make someone laugh.

• Make a cup of tea for someone.

• Sign up to do voluntary work in your local community.

• Have a clear out and take items to a charity shop.

• Make and send a care package to someone who needs it.

• Donate to a charity.

• Let someone jump the queue at the supermarket.

• Take a minute to help someone who is lost.

• Smile and say hello to people you may pass every day but have never spoken to before.

It is true an individual person alone cannot solve the problems of the world, but we can do better together. In my opinion, kindness is the greatest gift and a great gratification to us. If we achieve something significant for us and someone else, we’re fulfilling our life more meaningfully and with happiness. So, let’s try to make a positive difference in someone’s life through simple acts of kindness.

EMBRACING OURSELVES IN EVERY WAY

By Layla Sibanda

The British Empire has welcomed so many cultures and built what we consider the British culture now from the Windrush generation to Nigeria, India, Egypt and Ireland. With more people migrating here, more communities and cultures are being recognised, created and celebrated in the UK; increasing diversity and acceptance along the way. We can speak, laugh, learn and celebrate each other, so why not celebrate our integrated yet different fashion?

Fashion is a standard thing in society as a whole. For some people, it’s just clothes, but for others, it’s a way of personal expression and liberty to choose how they want to be seen and present their personality. It can range from using ecofriendly clothing to societal statements to simply celebrating where we come from and our cultures.

For this Edition of the Xplode Magazine, we decided to incorporate cultural elements into stylish and fun clothing through the theme of Festival Fashion. As a team, we assembled a collection of outfits that included statement pieces of culture with fun, trendy and modest clothing. We also made sure that people felt more comfortable and less conscious about wearing items from their culture when planning the shoot. One of our models, Yordanos, wore a brown beaded necklace with a preppy beige outfit to coordinate the look. The necklace is from Zimbabwe, where wearing lots of beaded jewellery is common there, and she wanted to flaunt that in her shots. Another model, Osemudiame, brought her own Nigerian jewellery and paired them flawlessly with her eccentric, youthful outfits!

IMAAN

On the day of the shoot, we were able to enjoy and feel comfortable expressing our cultures and even got to learn more about each other as a person. The message we learnt from the day was that we should feel no shame in wearing anything that expresses any part of us, and have a good time! We hope you feel inspired from these outfits, and that they give you the confidence to be yourself and embrace what makes you, you.

SUN-KISSED SUMMER STYLES

Get ready to dive into a world of youthful energy and carefree summer vibes! In this captivating fashion shoot, we celebrate the essence of youth, capturing the spirit of sundrenched days and music-filled festivals. With vibrant colours, playful patterns, and trendy outfits, join us as we transport you to a world of joy and stylish adventure.

Amp up your summer fashion game: embrace the vibrant spirit with a coordinated set, accented by a playful blue man-bag and clean white trainers.

Shirt and Short Set - £30.00 BoohooMAN

Shoes - £15.00 BoohooMAN

Bag - £20.00 ASOS

YORDI

Effortlessly chic in neutrals: rock a white long-sleeve crop t-shirt with trendy cargo pants in neutral tones for a fashion-forward look.

Top - £16.00 ASOS

Trousers - £24.00 ASOS

Pretty Little Thing

Floral flair and vintage vibes: channel your inner fashionista with a chic white tee, a flowy floral skirt, chunky sandals, and retroinspired sunglasses.

Skirt - £12.99

New Look

Top - £27.99

New Look

Sandals - £28.00 ASOS

Top - £9.60

Trousers - £35.99 ASOS

JULIA OLIVIA

Top - £19.99

ASOS

Skirt - £23.00

ASOS

Shoes - £21.00

ASOS

Vintage-inspired fashion at its best: channel the past with a patterned retro look t-shirt, a pop of colour, white shoes and floral details that shine on timeless beauty.

Flaunt your fashion flair with a black skirt, chunky sandals, and a statement-making red and beige print top that showcases your unique style and creativity!

Top - £28.00 ASOS

Skirt - £19.99

ASOS

Sandals - £28.00 ASOS

#STOPCYBERBULLYING

WHY IS IT HARMFUL?

The effects of bullying can stay with you throughout adulthood. Children who experience bullying may develop mental health problems, have low self-esteem or struggle to make friends.

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK OUT FOR?

No child is the same, but there are common signs to look out for when your child is being bullied online. Are they withdrawn? Are they struggling with school work? Do they hide their devices?

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Speak calmly to your child about cyberbullying. If they do not feel comfortable opening up, you can direct them to childline.org.uk for anonymous help. Head to thinkuknow.co.uk for support on how to report incidents, or NSPCC.org.uk for more information on how to keep children safe from cyberbullying.

This poster has been produced by Youth Leads UK, funded by Bolton Together & Bolton Council Public Health and supported by Bolton College.

BRITAIN’S HIDDEN CRISIS: THE STATE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT

By Hadyn Cutler MYP

Cars are inherently bad for a society.

At first, this statement likely seems ludicrous. After all, how are people expected to get around without cars? How else would they travel long distances, or deliver items? This is what most people think when I mention this point, showing that they completely forget that buses can help you get around, trains travel long distances, and freight trains or cargo bikes can help with transporting items big or small.

You may ask why I bring this up now of all times. What makes public transport so pertinent to the summer of 2023? Well, for one, this argument is a timeless one and will continue to exist until it’s addressed. However, this is relevant to the current moment due to one thing, the £2 bus fare cap is being extended in Greater Manchester.

First and foremost, this seems like good news. Buses are cheaper! Hooray! Whilst I don’t deny this, we must acknowledge that this is a plaster on a gaping wound. Cars continue to dominate this society, using up precious resources (fossil fuels for petrol cars, rare earth metals for electric ones), wasting space in our towns, and causing harm and injury indiscriminately. All of this is allowed to continue whilst bus services in rural areas continue to be cut, train prices are ever-increasing, and barriers to cycling continue to exist.

So, how does this affect you? Well, given that you’re reading a youth-oriented magazine from a young people’s charity, you are likely under-25. This means many readers will be unable to drive. Do you see where I’m going with this? Better alternatives to cars and better infrastructure to accommodate for this means more independence for young people, and I’ve never met someone young who doesn’t want more independence.

Do I think the state of public transport will change? In the near future, probably not. The changes needed to improve our society are quite foundational, so it might take some effort. But, if you join me and make some noise around the issue, maybe we’ll get there sooner than you (and I) think.

THE CLIMATE CRISIS EXPLAINED

Since the industrial revolution, the human demand for energy has increased exponentially. To cope with this; we greatly depend on the use of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, to produce energy.

These natural resources are unsustainable and lead to the contribution of a large amount of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.

Greenhouse gases are how the world keeps itself warm. They are often compared to a warm blanket, and include gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; however the growing volume of these gases leads to rising temperatures as the “blanket” gets thicker.

Source: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-alarm

Source: https://fnb.ink/climatehealth/

Many of the known impacts of climate change are extreme for humanity. Yet a lot of the consequences are unknown, and it will be alot easier to have a mitigation response than having to find solutions to a vast array of problems that may emerge if we don’t act now.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Even small changes can have a big difference.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Using methods of renewable energy in your home, such as solar panels, are great alternatives for emitting less greenhouse gases. Also, save energy by switching off your lights appliances and heating off when not necessary.

TRAVEL GREEN

Walk or cycle wherever possible. Also try to commute using public transport to greatly reduce your carbon footprint. If you really want to make a difference, invest in an electric car which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

WATER CONSERVATION

Reduce the use of water by taking shorter showers and not letting water run when not in use. Also stay mindful of your water bill and use renewable sources of water if possible. Reduce the use of energy in heating water for example, by washing clothes and dishes at lower temperatures.

REDUCE WASTE AND RECYCLE

Follow the 5 Rs Refuse the use of single use and disposable plastics. Reduce waste and the use of plastics. Recycle materials that are recyclable, such as paper and glass. Reuse old items such as clothes. Finally, don’t forget to Remind others to do the same.

THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU EAT

Shifting to a more plant-based diet can significantly lower your environmental impact. Also eating more organic and locally-produced foods can decrease your carbon footprint. Cut down on your food waste to be more sustainable, maybe even try a sustainable recipe.

STAND UP

We are the first to know our impact on the planet and we will be the last who can do something about it. Speaking up and demanding change is one of the most powerful things we can do. Talk to your local MP and tell them to commit to action to protect our natural world.

Unless drastic action is taken for the protection of our planet, the world of tomorrow will not be the same. Play your part in saving nature. Visit Climate Action & United Nations for more info. www.fnb.ink/xplode23-climate

By Sami Gichki

WAIT, WHY ARE WE CANCELLING EVERYONE?

We’ve all been in that position: one of our friends hears something about someone, whether it be someone in our class or a celebrity, and all of a sudden it’s all anyone seems to be talking about. Rumours. The power of word of mouth is second to none. It has the power to address issues, change minds, and destroy lives.

If you’re suffering with bullying or mental health you can visit childline.org.uk for anonymous help.

So... what is Cancel Culture?

Cancel culture takes on many different forms, but generally, it is a form of boycott. It is the removal or “cancelling” of a person, organisation, product, brand, or anything else due to an issue that a community or group disapproves of or finds offensive.

Call-out Culture vs. Cancel Culture

People often use these terms interchangeably, but there is actually a big difference between them. Call-out Culture is when someone’s wrongdoing is brought to their attention. Calling out doesn’t have to be public; it can be private. Talking to someone privately about the issue is usually a courtesy gesture to gently nudge the person into doing the right thing, thereby allowing them the opportunity to learn from and correct the issue. However, this opportunity is not offered in Cancel Culture, which instead quickly turns them into villains.

Source: Lindsey Toler (2022) The Mental Health Effects of Cancel Culture (Available from: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-cancel)

Why is Cancel Culture a problem?

One reason why Cancel Culture is a growing problem is that more and more people are feeling the negative effects instead of the positive ones. In an ideal scenario, the lesson would be learned, and the person cancelling and the person cancelled would come to a positive solution. Unfortunately, we don’t live in an ideal world, and most of the time, cancelling becomes bullying.

This can be seen in the recent case of Hailey Beiber and Selena Gomez. Due to a comment from Hailey Beiber, the entire internet seemed to start an online frenzy and turned against her. This caused relentless hurtful comments, and the situation took such a harsh turn that it came to a point where Gomez herself used her social media influence to try and bring the online hate to a close. Selena Gomez had two options here, she could have allowed for the relentless hostility to continue or she could act against it. She chose to show that women should stand together, and not stand for the expectation that she should feed into the bullying by making a negative comment back to Hailey Beiber. This is a good example of where people online can take a comment too far, as it is left open to interpretation and can be perceived by people in many different ways. Many could argue that Gomez made the ethical decision to take control of the situation, to prevent it going any further.

Cancel Culture ends careers and can sometimes end lives. In the unfortunate case of Caroline Flack, a Love Island presenter who was afraid of how the public and media would perceive her if her trial went public, a life was lost. This could have been prevented. The public holds great power, however, this power can be dangerous because it can cause life-changing damage to someone. We should think twice before we type. Before we rush to say something, which we might now think much of, the person receiving it could think about it for months on end. Words are our way of pushing our thoughts out into the world, but sometimes, if you have nothing nice to say, it’s better to say nothing at all.

By Ruqayya Khan

PARTICIPATION CRISIS OF YOUNG VOTERS

In contemporary Britain, there has been growing concern over the lack of political participation of young voters. However, the reality is more complex which suggests that there are many varying factors that affect the political participation of young voters.

The most significant reason for young voters withdrawing from politics includes many feeling that the current political system does not represent them. This is due to a variety of factors, including lack of diversity in representatives, focus on issues that do not resonate with young people, and political apathy. Parliament recorded that the age group of 18-29 year olds had the fewest MPs in 2019, whilst half of the MPs elected were aged over 50. As a result, the order of issues prioritised reflected the age disparity in representation. For instance, pension queries are frequently topical in the Commons while MPs such as Nick Clegg failed to carry out promises on free student tuition (2010 coalition).

So, what can we do to address the political participation crisis with young voters? We can take several steps to encourage greater engagement such as:

• Increasing political education among young people, workshops in schools, crash courses and campaigns that target young voters.

• We should address topical issues young people collectively feel passionate about, such as climate change, student tuition, and social justice.

• There needs to be a concerted effort to rebuild trust in the political system itself. Reduce elitist influence in politics, implement proportional voting, and hold politicians accountable.

In conclusion, the political participation crisis with young voters is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to be addressed. We must make efforts to increase political education, rebuild trust in the political system, and address issues that are important to young people. By taking these steps, we can encourage greater engagement among young voters and ensure we hear their voices in the political system.

By Julia Mayele

HOW TO EMBRACE YOUR 4C HAIR

The natural 4c hair pattern has tight curls and is often coiled. It consists of a zig-zag pattern which makes it beautiful as it’s unique and has lots of character. But not everyone finds it easy to appreciate the beauty in 4c hair so here are some reasons why you might dislike your 4c hair:

1. Society likes to promote straight or loosely curled hair over kinky or coiled textures. This can lead people to think that 4c hair is “unmanageable”,” unprofessional” or “unattractive”. However, these beliefs are not true.

2. You might find it difficult caring for 4c hair as it can be more prone to tangling, breakage, and dryness. This can make it feel harder to take care of. And lead to people thinking your hair would be easier to maintain if your hair texture was more ‘normal’.

3. There is a lack of representation. People with 4c hair also might feel that their hair is not represented, it is much harder to appreciate your hair when you see people who don’t look like you.

But one way you might be able to appreciate your 4c hair more is through protective hairstyles to promote healthy hair by reducing breakage, retaining moisture, and promoting hair growth. To prepare your hair for a protective hairstyle, having a wash day routine is important. This will also help you to understand your hair more. So here are some steps for an ideal routine to prevent breakage and encourage hair growth:

1. Wet your hair - using water to hydrate your hair will make your hair stronger and easier to work with

2. Double cleansing – use clarifying shampoos to remove build up. Massage the shampoo by focusing on your scalp first, then roots and then strands.

3. Conditioning - the key is to lock moisture so use a deep conditioner for about 30 minutes.

4. Detangling - use your fingers at first and then a wide tooth comb to detangle.

5. Masking - section hair and apply the mask. Then twist the section and leave it for 5-10 minutes.

6. Rinsing and drying - rinse the mask off with warm water. To lock in the moisture, rinse with cold water. And then dry with a cotton t-shirt to reduce breakage.

7. Hydration - finish off with a leave-in conditioner and a lightweight oil to keep your hair strands hydrated at all times.

Your hair texture is gorgeous and a natural part of who you are. You have the power to express yourself through your hair 4c without any doubt.

By Olivia Niamkey

YOUR BIG SISTER’S GUIDE TO COMMUNICATION

I personally don’t believe that love is what keeps a relationship going. It’s communication and comprehension that keeps a relationship going strong. Now, I’m going to put emphasis on comprehension because you can communicate well but there’s no point in that communication if the other person doesn’t understand where you’re coming from.

By Ilsa Gichki

People are not the same. They are built differently and it’s important to understand that your partner is built differently than you and about the set ways that they feel. Generally, some people are more hidden to emotions, they don’t often openly express how they’re feeling. On the other hand, some people are more prone to emotions, they feel everything way too much.

Every time your other half comes to you with a concern, instead of invalidating their feelings, you should listen because remember, they are the ones that are experiencing you from an objective standpoint. The way you act with them is different to the way that you act with others. The connection that you have with them is different to the connection you have with others. So instead of thinking you’re perfect and can never go wrong, you should really be thinking about your partner’s perspective and realise that their perspective of you is unique - they see you in a light nobody else does, including yourself so you should think and reflect on your behaviour so you can make the relationship work. I understand the intention is never to invalidate your partner’s feelings but sometimes during arguments, people are often too quick to have their defence mode on not realising that it’s you and them VS the problem, not you VS them.

It’s vital to ask your partner whether they are looking for a rational solution or to vent. If they are looking to rationalise then give input. But if they just want to vent and they’re telling you that they are upset, stop trying to look for logic in their emotions. They are looking to be heard and when you turn around and try to find logic to their hurt, you invalidate their feelings and make them feel small, unseen and unimportant.

HERE ARE A COUPLE OF WAYS YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR COMMUNICATION:

1. Being able to identify your emotions is an important part of knowing how to talk about your feelings. Describe your feeling by saying it or writing it down. Think about how to help your partner empathise or help them understand what it’s like to walk in your shoes.

2. If you have a difficult time finding the right words, remember that most feelings can be summed up in a single word. For instance, anger, hurt, sadness, confusion, etc. These are all words that can help describe how you’re feeling.

3. To be successful in sharing your feelings, you need to be open, honest, willing to make time for each other, and receptive to these talks. This needs to be a reciprocal process. You both must express how you feel with each other; it can’t just be one of you.

It’s easier said than done. I understand communicating your feelings can be hard but it’s essential to maintain a healthy relationship.

SPOTLIGHT: PLANISWARE

Our young people were left feeling inspired after the industry insight session they had with Kai Ojo, the Managing Director of Planisware UK on our latest Leadership Programme. The session was focused on who Planisware are and the personal experiences of Kai on how to make yourself more employable.

Planisware is one of the leading independent software vendor for project and portfolio management. Their purpose is to consider the strategic initiatives of organisations who reinvent processes and create new services and new products. They help them by providing tools to innovate faster, safely, and at scale, to better serve more people.

This is what our young people had to say about the session.

Which aspect of Planisware interested you the most?

“What I liked most about Planisware wasn’t the company itself, but how Kai passionately explained everything the organisation does and how his leadership makes the company stand out. Seeing a corporate organisation’s admirable loyalty to its clients was also appealing and overall made the company seem like a fantastic provider.”

Sami Gichki

Which value of Planisware did you feel inspired by?

“I enjoyed hearing about the environment at Planisware. It was definitely encouraging to know that their values emphasised being comfortable in your workspace while simultaneously keeping a productive lifestyle up!”

Julia Mayele

What is something that surprised you about this industry?

“I didn’t know much about Planisware or the industry associated with it before listening to Kai’s presentation. I’m glad I was there because I learned quite a bit about both Planisware and software providers as a whole. I’m somewhat surprised that there are so many companies that make use of the tools that software providers offer. Some companies base use it for their entire IT infrastructure, which is surprising given the resources they have. About Planisware in particular, I was surprised by how focused on people the company is, especially given their size. I asked questions about how Planisware helps new employees, particularly young ones, transition into their workforce and I was surprised and impressed at how much effort they put into making that a smooth process.”

Davian Mendez Jones

What was the main thing you took away from this industry insight?

“From the industry insight with Planisware, I learnt that there are so many options for jobs and careers that I don’t even know about, I didn’t even know about a software company until that session. It was reassuring to know that you don’t need to follow the traditional process of education to get a job, and it’s better for you to do a job you enjoy and constantly learn from, than a job you’ll hate. I enjoyed the session, another thing I’ve learned is to really put myself out there and be open to get more opportunities coming my way (I.e. volunteering, job experience and LinkedIn)”

Layla Sibanda

Image Credit: womanthology.co.uk

FINDING YOUR FIT

By Ayesha Khan

Narrowing down your career progression choices can be daunting as the world is filled with countless opportunities; each offering unique experiences and challenges. I will now delve into the exciting realm of how you can prepare yourself for your future career by providing insights and valuable tips on how to identify your interests and skills that may align with your chosen career. Here are some points to consider:

Self-reflection:

Take the time to identify your interests, passions, and values. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What activities bring you joy and fulfilment?

• What topics or subjects ignite your curiosity?

• What makes you lose track of time positively or completely engaged?

Take the time to identify your interests, passions, and values. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Research:

Conduct extensive research to explore different careers that align with your interests. Leverage online resources, career fairs, mentorship programs, and informational interviews to gain insights into various job roles. Additionally, consider volunteering or interning in fields of interest to gain practical experience and a better understanding of the day-to-day realities of different careers.

Identify Your Strengths:

Assess your strengths by identifying areas where you excel and enjoy applying your skills. Consider taking personality and aptitude tests to gain further clarity on your strengths and areas where you can thrive professionally.

Gain Transferable Skills:

Transferable skills such as problem-solving abilities, creativity, leadership skills, or effective communication are crucial when choosing a career path to help your performance. Invest time in developing these skills through

extracurricular activities, online courses, or workshops. This could be done through seeking internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering opportunities that align with your career interests. The hands-on experience not only allows you to develop new skills but also helps you build a robust resume that stands out to potential employers and make you a wellrounded candidate for your desired job.

Seeking Guidance and Mentorship:

Reach out to mentors who work in fields of interest, join industry-related organisations, or connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Mentors can provide valuable insights, share their experiences, and help you navigate the intricacies of specific career paths. Attending networking events, joining relevant communities and organisations, and actively participating in online forums can also be beneficial. Networking not only exposes you to potential job opportunities but also provides access to valuable advice, information, and connections that can shape your career trajectory.

SYRIA - A FORGOTTEN CRISIS

Syrians have endured continued violence, deteriorating living conditions, inadequate health care, destroyed school and infrastructure, and human rights violation for over a decade.

What’s Happening in Syria?

The Idlib province in Syria, has been the scene of intense fighting as the Syrian government and its allies try to take control of the area. Last year, between April and August, more than 235,000 people were forced to flee their homes.

For years, civilians fleeing violence in other parts of Syria came to Idlib for safety. Prior to the war, the population was 1 million people. Then civilians from other parts of Syria started moving to Idlib for safety. As a result, the population started increasing massively from 1 million to 2 million.

back on how much they eat in order to feed their children. This has resulted in an outbreak of infections and diseases, and more than half a million children are chronically malnourished.

599 attacks on at least 350 separate medical facilities had been documented by Physicians for Human Rights as of March 2021, resulting in the deaths of 930 medical personnel. The medical facilities in Syria have been under attack for more than a decade. This has resulted in civilians having no access to medical care, doctors and basic health supplies which has put more than half of the Syrian population in a state of despair.

Nearly all those displaced people have now fled to the north-western region of the province, a small area near the SyriaTurkey border. They are unable to cross into neighbouring Turkey, which closed its borders to refugees in 2015.

Across Syria, 14.6 million need urgent humanitarian assistance. Families lack shelter, food and water, as well as basic services such as education and sanitation. Half of the health facilities in Syria are closed or only partially functional and more than one in three schools have been damaged or destroyed.

From January 2021 to January 2022, food security deteriorated in Northwest Syria. Drought and high costs for supplies drove a sharp decline in local crops, forcing families to remove staple foods from their diets. Many adults are making the difficult choice to cut

Source: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-middleeast

Source: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-syria

Source: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-orcha

Source: www.fnb.ink/xplode23-syriafacts

By Ilsa Gichki

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

To help one person is to help the whole of mankind. And Syria needs your help. It’s time for us to come together as a community and make a change. Here are some links to which you can donate to, which will help improve medical aid in Syria.

The Muslim Global Relief

The Muslim Global Relief is committed to operating a 100% donation policy, which means that every single penny donated is used strictly for charitable efforts.

They have been trusted for over 20 years by donors world-wide to distribute donations, building up knowledge, expertise and credibility to ensure your money reaches those who need it quickly, effectively and with full transparency. There is nobody more concerned with the honest and optimum distribution of your donations than Muslim Global Relief. This is because they understand the great trust that they have been given by accepting your donations and distributing them on the ground.

https://www.muslimglobalrelief.org/syriaemergency-appeal/

One Nation

One Nation operates on a 100% donation policy. They work under the guidance of the Charity Commission and scholars in order to ensure that funds are distributed according to both Islamic and UK charity laws. All the charity’s administrative costs are covered by donations specified for administration and from recycled clothing. The charity has a separate account for its administration fund to ensure the 100% donations policy is maintained. The money that you donate today will go towards hygiene kits,

emergency aid packs, ICU operations, meals for families, etc. You can choose what the money that you donate goes towards on the website.

https://onenationuk.org/product/medical-aid-insyria

A REAL CHANCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

We are thrilled to introduce our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) which ensures we are led by who we serve, young people. The YAB is Youth Leads UK’s dedicated group of young people who support us in guiding and delivering the charity’s strategic aims, ensuring we are youth-led and youth-informed at every level. Young people under 30 make up almost 40% of our population, but, more often than not, there are less than 0.01% of members on decision-making boards across the country.

Since 2014, Youth Leads UK has been governed by our young Board of Trustees, who hold our staff team accountable for the delivery of meaningful, youth-focused work. In 2022, at our 10th Anniversary Celebration, we announced the formation of a new Youth Advisory Board (YAB), and in 2023, we formed the first iteration of this Board.

YAB members participate in discussion-based activities, designed with and supported by our Youth Engagement Team, to work together to move the charity forward. This bridges the gap between the procedural responsibilities of Trustees and the delivery of meaningful activity to young people across Greater Manchester.

YAB member’s responsibilities include:

• Providing constructive feedback to the Board of Trustees on their strategies

• Sharing experiences and insight into issues faced by young people

• Presenting ideas to the YAB and the Board of Trustees on proposed programmes, partnerships and other services

• Maintaining meaningful relationships with external stakeholders and our Alumni

• Advocating Youth Leads UK values

These responsibilities are purposefully broad as we expect the YAB to shape their roles and responsibilities. Individuals’ roles and responsibilities will become more defined as they become settled within the Board.

All YAB members will be supported by our Youth Engagement Team, working together to move the charity forward.

How is the YAB structured?

The YAB will comprise between 10 and 15 members at any given time from diverse backgrounds and experiences as we know that one person cannot represent all communities.

The YAB will comprise between 10 and 15 members at any given time with ages ranging between 14 & 25. Each board member will offer their own unique perspectives and experiences, with the aim to ensure our board can represent a wide range of Greater Manchester’s diverse young people.

Three YAB members will also be democratically elected to be one of three roles and the roles include:

• Chair

• Vice-Chair

• Spokesperson

If you’re interested in making a real contribution to a leading youth charity, please visit our website for more information or get in touch with our youth engagement team!

EASTER BUNNY ROBS UK!

Saturday 11th February, an ‘eggs-travagent theft’, according to the West Mercia Police. You guessed it, another crime report. Except this isn’t what you’d quite expect! This hungry fellow is facing jail, after stealing 200,000 Cadbury Crème eggs! That’s right. 200,000 Cadbury Crème eggs- England’s very pride and joy since 1963! Talk about sweet tooth! Bizarre, cunning, carefully orchestrated- could this have been the very end to Easter?

By Khadijah Patel

Behind the scenes

Joby Pool, 32 years old, labelled the ‘Easter bunny’, broke into a Telford industrial unit, using a metal grinder, as a self-employed ground worker. Pool used a tractor unit, which had already been stolen in Yorkshire in October, to tow away the trailer. Mr Beale, the prosecutor hunting for the truth was present during the court:

“This clearly wasn’t the spur-of-the-moment … because he had taken with him the tractor unit and he had to know that the load was there in the first place” Mr Beale (The Yorkshire Post, 2023)

Extremely suspicious behaviour going on! Driving away, with around £40,000 worth of Crème eggs, he approached the Northbound M42. Yes, £40,000! Pondering over the final successes to his plan, he reached junction 11. To crack the silence, sirens struck from behind informing him he was being followed for suspicion of theft. Surrendering, he stepped out of the vehicle and walked towards the police ‘with hands up’, after weighing out the options of realistically returning prosperous with his menacing scheme. Not such an eggcellent plan after all!

Court cracking the case

“It’s clearly a leading role and it’s clearly significant planning” Mr Beale

To plan a stunt that is news breaking, I think we can all agree with that! A twoyear prison sentence would just be the beginning. To have the very nerve to steal our chocolate- two years may not be so bad! Wouldn’t you agree?

In fact, several other ‘chocolate varieties were also stolen’!

Magistrates were later told Pool had handled stolen goods, drove whilst being disqualified and convicted for theft in 2019! Not the best reputation at all!

Safe and sound

After the truth was unveiled, Pool claimed there had been “no interference with the food… they can go back on the shelves.” The chocolate was returned to its rightful home and if it wasn’t for the Mercia Police, Easter wouldn’t have been the same! However, the question is still out there, why did he do it? What did he want to do with all that chocolate?

The Yorkshire post, 2023. Cadbury’s Creme Eggs: Yorkshire man facing jail after admitting stealing 200,000 Cadbury’s Creme Eggs. Available at:

www.fnb.ink/xplode23-cadbury

We hope you enjoyed reading this fun article to conclude this edition of our magazine.

ARE YOU 14-24 YEARS OLD?!

Joining Youth Leads gives you the chance to develop your skills, realise your potential and create positive change in your community!

Across three months, you’ll help create a magazine, conduct a fashion shoot, write articles, and plan the delivery of a social action project to make things better in your area.

Find out when we’re recruiting on Twitter or Instagram

@YouthLeadsUK

@YouthLeadsUK