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Hackney Teenagers Magazine |
Young people in Hackney are eagerly reading the first issue of a magazine written for them by their peers.
CONTRAST magazine covers subjects important to teenagers living in the east London borough with articles in the launch issue about the media portrayal of women, making the streets safe from gangs and profiles of some rising young stars in the area.
To view a copy of the magazine click here
The full-colour glossy is published by Social Spider CIC and was commissioned by Hackney Youth Service to channel the talents of local 13 to 19-year-olds into the production of a magazine both by and for the Borough’s youth.
Aysha Tegally, who leads the weekly workshops where young people come up with editorial ideas for CONTRAST and produce the writing, design and illustration said: “It is amazing to see what young people with little experience and no self-assurance at the outset can come up with. This first issue is a testament to their flair and imagination.”
One of the editorial team, Rosheena Harding (17), said: “CONTRAST provides great opportunities for young people. It has given me the chance to develop skills that I didn’t know I had. While working with CONTRAST I have become much more confident when meeting new people.”
Five thousand copies of CONTRAST are being distributed throughout the Borough to schools, colleges, youth clubs and venues where young people get together. The free magazine, which also carries news, what’s on and creative writing, has been funded by the Hackney Youth Service Youth Opportunities Fund.
“This is a real chance to help people develop their communications skills and learn something about the media” said the Art Director of Social Spider and lifelong Hackney resident, Mustafa Kurtuldu. “We want to provide an opportunity for young people who are sometimes excluded from the normal benefits of society. They’ve certainly risen to the challenge.”
The young people have the opportunity to complete a programme of tasks in journalism, design and magazine production at the workshops and gain an Expressive Arts Award which is co-ordinated by ASDAN, a national educational accreditation body.
Three further issues will come out in 2007 and more are planned for next year.
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