young.

ealing
THE MID-TERM

RE-BOOT

ISSUE

EALING YOUTH PARLIAMENT COMMITTEE

Welcome to the brand new Young Ealing Magazine, a special youth publication that will be making its way to you, FREE. Launching a project like this was always going to be a huge job but weve loved every minute of it. Its great to be surrounded by a motivated, young, enthusiastic team and also have the support of the Ealing Youth and Connexions service its invaluable. We put together the prototype for the magazine before we even knew it would be published or if it would be a success. Hours of work for something that might never been by someone outside the group! But if youre reading this then, well all be patting ourselves on the back that we actually managed to clear those hurdles and get this published. As with all projects there will always be a few moments where you go Whats the point? This will never work better give up. The only advice I can give you is to ignore that little voice in your head. Even if this had never been published we still would have gained a lot from the experience. The journey is often much more interesting than the destination and a detour can become the best mistake you ever made! Were well into the school year now and for many of us well already have broken a few of our new school year promises. Every year I promised Id wake up an hour early and walk the dog, actually do all my homework, organize my time so every coursework deadline wasnt an all-nighter and get a part-time job. And every year by November Id still be wasting my weekends job-less, waking up barely in time to make registration and faffing about with homework and coursework into the wee-hours by a week-in to the new year. So this is why this issue is a special mid-term booster, were going to be giving you some tips and tricks to get that volunteer placement, learn more about your world and even refresh your wardrobe! Were going to be looking back over the last year to those times, like the London Olympics, that brought the country together and reminding you what that was all about. So what should your motto be for the next few months? Never say never. Give it a go if you dont like it youve learned something. And if it scares you then youve overcome something. And if you loved it you can gain a life-long passion. Go on, try.

s Letter Editor

@TweetETPC

#youngealingmag

THE TEAM

BEX MAYNARD: EDITOR IZzy farrow: fashion & DESIGN & Production

Eva pryce: features

Yasmin rufo: Sagar ghaleni: features & News features

Bex Maynard x

ilayda nijhar: fashion

CYNTHIA OTOTE: Konrad FootE: features & politics advice

@TweetETPC

#youngealingmag

EALING YOUTH PARLIAMENT COMMITTEE

Ealing Youth Parliament Committee (EYPC) has been running for two years, we meet every two to four weeks. We support the work of the Members of Youth Parliament in Ealing as well as working on our own projects - this year we are working on a political education campaign to get young people ready to get involved in politics. Some of our group have also been helping out this newlsetter together as part of the mag team! Were always looking for new people to come and join us, to have fun, meet new people, get to hear about amazing opportunities to get involved in your area like UK Youth Parliament or standing for Young Mayor and also to make a change. If youre interested check out the back cover for contact details!

COMM

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DEAR AUNT Y DYLLIS...

Dear Agony Aunt, I hate everyone. Help me? Angry, Northfields Dear Anonymous, Hate is such a strong word and in reality, it solves nothing. Try starting off the day with a positive thought. Todays one can be: When you feel that nobody loves you, nobody cares for you, everyone is ignoring you and people are jealous of you, you should really ask yourself... am I TOO sexy? Problem solved.

Dear Agony Aunt, I have been stalking myself for several years now, it has torn me apart. Should I be worried? Scary, Hanwell Dear Anonymous, Perhaps. Im sure youre a perfectly rational being but the fact of the matter is that its not okay to stalk yourself. Whilst Im glad that its not someone else youre stalking, I do worry that this may be the trial run for something a lot creepier. Being obsessed with yourself in this way must be difficult for you but why dont you try limiting this to admiring yourself in mirrors, windows and such? See your doctor for more advice. Good luck.

SIGN DE
FILMS

MUSIC

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POLITICS
I ASH F

PUBLISHING
ON

SHOWCASE YOUR PASSION. JOIN THE YOUNG EALING MAG TEAM.

t. 075545 12233 gbenton@ealing.gov.uk

TOP 25 WINTER THINGS

Bonfire Night

Were all getting a bit depressed at all this ... winter-i-ness. Its cold, dark and rainy - not a combination for success. Weve created this list to remind ourselves winter is not ALL bad...

Skiing
Christmas Specials

Mince pies
Golden leaves

Christmas!!!
Bank Holidays

With all the hype in the media about the forthcoming American Presidential elections even Britons this side of the pond are keen to see who will come out on top, Obama or Romney. But is it just me or is American government and politics REALLY confusing? We thought so, so we decided to create a 101 on the most basic questions. Part one, in this issue, how is the government made up?

American Politics: 101

2. The Executive

Onesies

How is the government made up?

1. United States Congress

Duvet-days
Family time Ice Skating
Long-socks

Xmas Music
Choclate, chocolate, chocolate Crisp, sunny mornings Frosty mornings

Snoods
Diwali

Snow

Santa
Chestnuts

Shop displays Wooly Jumpers

Tinsel

Open-fires

Two Senators from each state meet in the Senate. They are the more prestigous of the houses and have many constitutional duties. There is less arguing between the two political parties (Democrat and Republican) than in the house...

Representatives to sit in the House of Representatives are elected from each state proportionally to the population. They do similar jobs to MPs, drafting, debating and passing legislation.

The President, currently Barrack Obama, is the Head of State and is in charge of making decisions about international relations. He used the Congress to help advise him on this and other issues. Unlike the UK Prime Minister he has the power to veto legislation passed by congress. The Vice President is there to fill in if the President resigns or dies. He also votes in the Senate to break a tie. Unofficially he shares some of the Presidents executive power.

3. The Judicial Branch

Is in charge of the upholding the laws of the country and the making rulings on the constitution - it is chiefly made up of the Supreme Court.

by Konrad Foote

YOUR Rights

This issue well be interviewing Sagar Ghelani about his work as a youth represenative in Ealing. By Rebecca Maynard
R: So Sagar, can you tell us a little bit more about what you do? S: I am the Youth Mayor for the London Borough of Ealing. My role is to work on my manifesto, which I was elected on the strength of, and to represent the views of the youths in the borough at various events. R: And how did you get elected? S: I first got involved in the Ealing youth forum. When I heard about Youth Mayor elections I thought Id give it a go - even though I never thought Id win! I had to get votes from young people in Ealing. I then entered a final round hustings where I gave a speach to a room of people, along with the other candidates - and then they voted! R: What would you say to the young people of Ealing to encourage them to persue their dreams? S: Its not impossible, its Im-possible. Ever since I came across this quote, it has caused a mental stir in my head. Such a simple concept which I, most probably like you, failed to see. With this concept in mind, things began to brighten up for me. My attitude towards things started to change. I had the self belief and confidence that everyone should have in themselves. Every oppurtunity which came my way, I made the most of. Without realising, I began to progress in life. Eventually, this lead to me to standing as Youth Mayor! Something I never even imagined Id do! I managed to realise where these qualities can take you. Now it is your turn. Have you got the ability to believe in yourself? If you do, success is very close by. If you dont, now is the time. Start with small things and build your confidence. With some effort, the impossible can turn into Its-possible.

For those of us lucky enough to grow up in 21st century Britain we have a lot to be thankful for. History here and across the world has never protected young people the way we are protected today. We might enjoy our education or health care but do we know why we have it? What are our rights? How can we take responsibility for making sure we have our rights taken seriously? Your questions answered here... The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child outlines the rights of people under the age of 18 including: Young People have the right to be safe and protected from harm Young People have the right not to be assaulted or abused in any way, be it physically, emotionally or sexually Young People have the right to speak, be listened to and be believed Young People have the right to make their own decisions about their future Young People have the right to be treated with respect and dignity Young People have the right to complain against unfair treatment and their complaint to be taken seriously Young People have the right to say NO!

Your Responsibilities If you want to use your rights and have them taken seriously by other people you have to accept certain responsibilities. You do have the right to say no but there are always consequences to your actions and behaviour. For example, if you said no to doing your homework, what do you think would be the consequences?....... punishment... extra homework, failing exams... So although you have the right to make decisions about your future, you need to make sure they are informed decisions and that you know all the possible consequences of the choices you make. If you expect to be respected, believed and listened to, then its only fair that you give other people respect, believe them and listen to them.

inspirational.young.people

THIS ISSUES

2 vote or not 2 vote?

In 2001 voter turnout hit an all time low with only 59% of those eligible, voting. Briton is suffering from a epidemic of voter apathy. Media cynicism, complicated policy and ever more similar parties are confusing the electorate. So how do we get more people to vote? Lowering the voting age to 16 would allow 1.5 million more people to vote but, is that a solution? Without a system of compulsory voting we risk ever lower voter turnouts, which in turn assuages people from voting in the future. And worrying statistics suggest that if you do not vote in the first election you are eligible to do so you are considerably less likely to vote in subsequent elections. Education as it stands does not teach or engage students with the political system so how can we expect them to make an informed decision? And it they dont vote now, will they ever? Im not arguing young people are incapable of voting, and many are more informed than the average 50-year old. But I do not believe the majority of 16-17 year olds do not have the knowledge, maturity and experience to vote.

would mean that the state has the duty to uphold your claim to freely communicate, right? Well, not according to Twitter... In the technological age of today in which young children are using Blackberrys before theyve started teething, it is no wonder that human interaction has been relegated to cyberspace. But this faceless communication raises a concern, how do we hold people accountable for what they say? In the interests of the people, and indeed democracy, the freedom to say what is on your mind is one that is, but shouldnt be, taken for granted. We look down on the censorship of thought in China and Cuba dont we? We value freedom of speech. So shouldnt we be able to express ourselves on social networking sites such as Twitter. It is our right to protest, praise and preach. But accountability is still important. Whether spoken, written, typed or tweeted we restrict people from certain taboos racial hatred for example. So how far do we go to protect the people, if the trade off is freedom? How can we make sure that freedom of speech is not so misused by its users that it develops into freedom of abuse. The freedom to express your views whatever, wherever, whenever, is the equivalent to having your cake and eating it too. Essentially, you can insult whomever you so wish behind the comfort of a computer screen. Oh! And there wont be any consequences for your actions. Unleash the big bad internet trolls. The restriction of freedom of speech through possible legal consequence is only to uphold some sort of order. Generally, teenagers are too busy being heartbroken, angst-ridden and annoyed at teachers to pose any real danger to society. But internet personas rarely correspond with real life character and in the heat of the moment an inappropriate comment can cross the line into well, you watch the news. The phrase you should think before you speak can be applied to the internet too. Perhaps in its early stages of creation, the social networking service was intended to be a forum for free speech and exchange of ideas but once the brutality of human nature was set atwitter, such freedom became subject to several limitations. Ultimately, there will always be constraints on the freedom of speech. If there werent, the United Kingdom would not be able to maintain democracy as it is now. In all fairness, its most definitely a good thing. You heard about that letter to Obama didnt you? And as for that teenager that insulted Tom Daley for narrowly missing out on a bronze medal... well that was just rude.

What does freedom of speech really mean? Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. So they say. Which

by Rebecca Maynard
Voting still commands a sense of gravity and importance. After all, its been fought for long and hard. Most people seem to automatically side against the voting age being lowered to 16 but why? Are we saying there is some miraculous maturity spike between the ages of 16 and 18? Our legislation allows a 16 year old to marry, start a family, work, pay tax, drive a tractor, join the army and buy petrol. Thats quite a bit of responsibility so why cant they vote? Some argue at 16 we havent enough life experience - were been in full time education since the age of 5. But schools open young peoples minds to so many things, young peoples minds are so much more open! And if decision makers dont think young people know enough to vote then why are they not providing them with the knowledge while theyre still in school! Why is government and politics not on the curriculum from primary school? If young people dont know enough to vote at 16 when they leave school we have failed them. For all the negatives, ask yourself, can you really put a price on democracy?

by Yasmin Rufo

By Cynthia Otote

Olympic Legacy: Stage Taken (By YOUTH)

The London Olympics have been and gone. Young people came in their hoards to help out and have left a legacy in the mind of the rest of the world we have something positive to bring. The stage has been taken. This has been a happier summer than last years and the sense of community allows young people to flourish. Inspire a generation? What about rebuild a generation? Last year was difficult; the young people rioting in Ealings streets caused chaos and fear around our community. Who was to blame? The young people of course! Instead of singling our the minority who were to blame, we all got a bad rep. Young people were a threat to the community and the media labeled us the most unpleasant and violent youths in the world. We were branded out of control. So this year was extra special, the Olympics were coming and it had to be perfect as the whole world was watching and waiting. Everyone had their fingers crossed. Suddenly as summer started to draw nearer, Ealing began to draw together as a community. All of us, even the youth of Ealing, were taking part. The Olympics committee worked in partnership with local schools to get youths playing sports together. This included Paralympic sports such as Goal Ball (where players are blindfolded). We learnt the Olympic values: Respect, Excellence, Friendship. Then the torch came along, cheered by hundreds on the streets of Ealing. It was carried proudly by a group of students from Brentside High School. As it was put in Ealings cauldron for the night we all felt a part of the Olympic spirit. The 8th of August 2011, our home a battle zone between rioters and the police. The 24th of July 2012, our home a friendly and warm atmosphere as the torch arrived. So much can change in a year and thankfully it has for the better. Inspire a generation yes, indeed.

And to inspire you that little bit extra Yasmin Rufo went off to interview two London Olympic 2012 stars! Interview with Louisa Reeve Team GB rower:
Y: When did you start rowing? L: I remember watching my brother row and it looking like so much fun so I started at school like a hobby and got more into it during university. Y: How easy was it to get involved in rowing in your community? L: At school because it was a hobby it was easy but teachers were never happy to let me miss scheduled PE lessons to row. Y: Did you have to change your lifestyle much in the build up the Olympics? L: We trained 5 hours a day so it was like a full time job. We had to eat healthily and maybe have a bit more carbs. Y: Do you have any special tactics? L: 8 foot boats are more of a sprint but smaller boats there are tactics. I am usually number 2 which is a bit more tactical. Y: Any encouragement youd give unsure young people to row? L: Just give it a go. Find your nearest club and do a taster session. Y: Lastly, are you planning to compete in Rio 2016? L: Its a long way off and very time consuming. I dont have to decide quite yet. But I think I wont stop rowing just yet!

Hannah Macleod Team GB hockey player:

Y: When did you first start playing Hockey? H: It was so easy we did it in Y7 PE lessons and my teacher encouraged me to join a club. Y: What is it you liked about hockey? H: I was quite shy and the 100m start line wasnt for me. Being part of a team you can go with the flow and not stand out. Y: What does winning the bronze in London 2012 mean to you? H: Being on home soil we have a lot more media coverage and we can promote our sport a bit more! Y: Do you want to be part of Rio 2016? H: Its too early to decide but Ill be back on the pitch soon!

By Eva Pryce

E: What do you think about the progression of your character? K: Merlin is based on the legend, so the thing with my character Lady Morgana, is I always knew she would become a dark power against Merlin. However I had no idea how she would end up this way so that was quite challenging but the scripts are so good and everyone was so brilliant that I think we managed to create a believable villain. But I think Morgana is so fantastic, no one could create her on their own. E: What is your favourite thing about your character? K: I think Lady Morgana is still at heart a good person because shes not doing it for herself, shes not selfish in the fact that she wants power because she wants power. Shes doing it because she wants magic to be a public thing again. Shes going about it in a skewed way but she believes its the right reason. I love my character; you couldnt play her without loving her. I think shed be a better Queen than Arthur and personally, he isnt a great King. I think shes the best. E: What is it like being an actress, how did it happen for you? We film Merlin in France for 8 months and its really fun. Its like a school trip, youre with your mates and you spend more time with each other. My French isnt very good though. I hadnt always planned on being an actress, when I was really young I honestly wanted to become a backing singer for Guns and Roses and be in the Knocking on Heavens door video. But as a kid, one week you want to be a singer, the next week a fireman. I loved acting and only realised it could be a career after working on a film set and seeing actors for myself. Its difficult but possible. My honest advice for somebody who wants to be an actor is I think that young people should go to college no matter what they study. Go do a degree and while your there join the drama society and work through it that way.

AN INTERVIEW WITH KATIE McGRATH

E: So what can we expect from series five? K: Series 4 was beginning to tell the legend, with Arthur being king. Series 5 is bigger, darker and better. Its really clever what the producers have done, rather than keeping it the same it has grown with the audience. Thats whats so brilliant. I dont think none of the cast ever imagined it would be as successful as Merlin has. You hope, you cross your fingers. We knew this was something special but I didnt know it would be so popular and capture the imagination of so many people.

ion sh Fa

EALING

Hey Im Sam, I just left school. Im from Hanwell and Im in Ealing Broadway today to meet friends. I love the choice of shops here! My favourite is H&M. I think the most important issue facing young people today is the condition of the envoronment!

Hey Im ......... Im from Acton. Ive been in Ealing shopping all day! It is so convenient. I love the horse statue, I think its something that unites young Ealing-ers. Id say my look is granny-chic.

CAT

ON THE

WALK

Autumn Fashion Week

By Eva Pryce

Big, bold, better. London Autumn Fashion week 2012 was awash with clashing prints, geeky cuts and neon hues. Elegant is out, edgy is in fun, cheeky, youthful fashion. Our high street stores are already bursting at the seams with these new fashionable finds. So pick yourself up a pastel-bright boxy coat from H&M, pair of neon leggings at Primark or a leather skirt (BRAVE) at Topshop.

Volunteering for Dummies

I dont know about you but for me Autumn was always when my new-years resolution got made. Whether youre going back to school, college, starting an internship or trying to find a job after a lazy summer in the sun suddenly Autumn hits you and you realise it is time to work out what they hell youre doing with yourself. Now, we might already be quite a bit closer to winter than summer but its never too late or too early to give your future job prospects a boost. And what better way, we think, than by volunteering. Volunteering gives you flexible, worthwhile experience of the real world beyond school and college. You have more control of how and when you give your time than a real part-time job and you get to do much cooler stuff than folding jumpers in Primark. And the best bit? Were living in London in 2012 volunteering opportunities are literally on your doorstop. There are so many roles that are there to be filled and now is the time to do it. And with the first school term underway, many places will be undergoing recruitment processes to fill spots left by this years university starters. The choices are endless you could become involved with anything from cooking with handicapped teenagers to helping out at local dance schools. The following page shows you a snapshot fact file of some of our favourite opportunities coming up this Autumn/Winter. And, because were so nice, we added contact details so that you can just call up and start the volunteering process now! But, this is by no means everything out there so get in touch with organisations that offer something you love doing - and ask if they want help, Although it may seem daunting trying to help others when you may not feel so sorted yourself, most places will provide training so that youre fully equipped to deal with anything that may come up. So go along, do something you love, meet new people, and in the process help others that may not otherwise have had the opportunity!

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Oxfam: Vinspired volu nt

Anything e
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TH AND days? KI d holi kends an Wee KIDS. org.uk andkids. www.kith Volunteering 4 GIG TICKETS? www.orangerockcorps.co.uk
eering 14-25,
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Call 020 8579 6532 or drop by!

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Top Tips from the Ealing Volunteer Centre! Be clear about what youre interested in when applying for roles. Be bold and get in contact! Places want volunteers and will be grateful to hear from you. Be practical and think about what you actually want to gain from the opportunity. Be realistic when applying for roles is it something you will be interested in doing often? Be enthusiastic and ask lots of questions! Also contact Ealing Volunteer Centre about unsuccessful attempts as they are keen to improve all the opportunities and they can try to help you with other attempts! Thanks to Lizzie and Samantha for helping us find out more about volunteering in Ealing!

By Izzy Farrow

youth.&.connexions
Want to get involved in youth projects?

Want help getting a job?

Want to get involved in sports, arts or other hobbies? Want to do your Duke of Edinburgh award? Want to represent young people in Ealing and the UK? Want advice on volunteering?
For enquiries and further information please contact Gemma Benton on 07545412233 or gbenton@ealing.gov.uk

WANT TO BE YOUNG?