Just hit World AIDS Day (December 1), and this is the best HIV-awareness short film I've seen so far...
Review: Me Myself & HIV - MTV Staying Alive Campaign
What is the average day like for a young person living with HIV? Is it different from Africa to the US? CAS editor, Dwain Lucktung, finds out as he watches ‘Me Myself & HIV’; an inspirational short film by MTV Staying Alive for World AIDS Day…
How simple can life be for someone living with HIV? Can you imagine them - the ones with the virus - clubbing, getting tattoos, dating, kissing…?
The answer is very, very simple.
MTV Staying Alive (a HIV awareness initiative) have produced an enlightening short film for World AIDS Day (December 1) which follows two very normal young people, two worlds apart, but both living fulfilled lives despite their HIV positive status.
HIV doesn’t need to a doom and gloom subject – and ‘Me Myself & HIV’ proves that; as we witness 25 year old all-American Minneapolis sweetheart, Angelikah, and aspiring 21 year old Zambian DJ/music artist, Slim, going through all the life challenges we might go through (but they just so happen to have HIV).
Angelikah parties hard, goes to university, has a HIV negative boyfriend (and they do ‘everything and more’ apparently) – admittedly she states “It’s definitely harder to get closer to people with HIV… a lot would see it as a deal-breaker from the beginning”, but that doesn’t stop her and Taylor having a flourishing relationship. They go hand in hand to get Angelikah’s tattoo, a West African symbol that represents “someone who has gone through a lot of crap but come through the other side.” How appropriate for a young woman who insists, ““People need to understand I’m just an average 25 year old girl.”
Ladies - can you sympathise?
Same question to the lads. Look at Slim. He’s the Lusaka boy driving for a record deal, trying to get a girlfriend – a familiar story for some? There’s a few minor differences perhaps - Slim found out he was HIV positive when he was 15; not an easy skeleton in the closet for a young Zambian kid who claims “It’s difficult when you’re (HIV) positive trying to find a girl who will accept you for who you are…”
To read the full review, click here.
11/01/2010
Book Review: Politically Correct - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
My book review and recommendation for the month/xmas run - Gareth Allen's 'Politically Correct' - with cover illustration by my good friend, Tom Pritchard...
Book Review: Politically Correct
Having spent the last couple of weeks prepping our ‘Circus of the Invisible’ lobby action stunt, yesterday (October 20) was a barrel of laughs for our Ctrl.Alt.Shift foot soldiers, who had a barrel of tax and climate justice queries (and demands) for our busy buddy MPs…
It was a heavy day all around - as ever, we wonder still what the next steps are for those beyond Parliament’s doors.
Rightly so then, this week we recommend ‘Politically Correct’; a book that illustrates the life and fast times of an aspiring MP; from the campaign brainwaves, to visiting voter doorsteps to election day.
Ever wondered what it takes to become an MP, the journey, pitfalls and real intentions to be in a position of power - and if really, anyone can do it? Gareth Allen’s story tells us that sometimes fighting for your own vision in the system is a trying battle, but one worth having a shot at…
“Running as an independent candidate was always going to be an uphill struggle… but it was the best way to learn about our democracy, and to find out what really makes people tick”
In the general election of 2010, Gareth (35, of Normanton) ran for parliament as an independent candidate, taking on the might of the Westminster establishment - and specifically his local MP Yvette Cooper.
In around 220 pages, Gareth lays out his adventure in politics to all, as he strikes up a formidable campaign with a “shoestring budget”, without a supporting party, no Eton College on his CV or existing MP ‘buddies’. It was his friends and the local people who helped Gareth mould a credible candidate out of himself, as he got out in the community and drew up his manifesto.
Running up to the election, Gareth plunged into full time campaigning - an exhausting trial as he knocked on doors, meeting hundreds of voters, debating the other candidates in set piece Hustings meetings.
But Gareth knew it was always going to far from easy: “Running as an independent candidate was always going to be an uphill struggle… but it was the best way to learn about our democracy, and to find out what really makes people tick.”
For the rest of the review, click here.
Book Review: Politically Correct
Having spent the last couple of weeks prepping our ‘Circus of the Invisible’ lobby action stunt, yesterday (October 20) was a barrel of laughs for our Ctrl.Alt.Shift foot soldiers, who had a barrel of tax and climate justice queries (and demands) for our busy buddy MPs…
It was a heavy day all around - as ever, we wonder still what the next steps are for those beyond Parliament’s doors.
Rightly so then, this week we recommend ‘Politically Correct’; a book that illustrates the life and fast times of an aspiring MP; from the campaign brainwaves, to visiting voter doorsteps to election day.
Ever wondered what it takes to become an MP, the journey, pitfalls and real intentions to be in a position of power - and if really, anyone can do it? Gareth Allen’s story tells us that sometimes fighting for your own vision in the system is a trying battle, but one worth having a shot at…
“Running as an independent candidate was always going to be an uphill struggle… but it was the best way to learn about our democracy, and to find out what really makes people tick”
In the general election of 2010, Gareth (35, of Normanton) ran for parliament as an independent candidate, taking on the might of the Westminster establishment - and specifically his local MP Yvette Cooper.
In around 220 pages, Gareth lays out his adventure in politics to all, as he strikes up a formidable campaign with a “shoestring budget”, without a supporting party, no Eton College on his CV or existing MP ‘buddies’. It was his friends and the local people who helped Gareth mould a credible candidate out of himself, as he got out in the community and drew up his manifesto.
Running up to the election, Gareth plunged into full time campaigning - an exhausting trial as he knocked on doors, meeting hundreds of voters, debating the other candidates in set piece Hustings meetings.
But Gareth knew it was always going to far from easy: “Running as an independent candidate was always going to be an uphill struggle… but it was the best way to learn about our democracy, and to find out what really makes people tick.”
For the rest of the review, click here.
10/12/2010
Film Preview: Africa United (out October 22!) - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
One for the Rugrats, Stand By Me generation...
The story follows a group of children who make their way across various countries in Africa to audition for the opening ceremony of the South Africa World Cup 2010 - but their journey sees them having to confront any and all of issues that engulf sectors of their nation; from poverty, to conflict, HIV and human trafficking...
The ride of their lifetime begins in Kigali, Rwanda, as football prodigy Fabrice, his best friend and miniature blazer-wearing manager 'Dudu' (not the Brazilian superstar), and Dudu's little sister Beatrice get off to rough start; sneaking onto the wrong bus, and ending up in the Congo without papers or money.
From there they go from refugee camp to HIV clinics, fending off wild animals and trigger happy criminals. It's a 3,000 mile rollarcoaster that spins through Rwanda, the Congo, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa - and not without laughs, a mass of Premiership-heavy football references, and extra players signing up to Dudu's mission along the way (including child orphan Foreman George and sex worker Celeste) - as they band together in a quest to put Fabrice on the 'big stage' he deserves.
Check it out - like the Galacticos, this movie is the 'Real' deal (a terrible footy pun there, but Africa United really is worth a trip to the big screen).
Read the full preview here.
The story follows a group of children who make their way across various countries in Africa to audition for the opening ceremony of the South Africa World Cup 2010 - but their journey sees them having to confront any and all of issues that engulf sectors of their nation; from poverty, to conflict, HIV and human trafficking...
The ride of their lifetime begins in Kigali, Rwanda, as football prodigy Fabrice, his best friend and miniature blazer-wearing manager 'Dudu' (not the Brazilian superstar), and Dudu's little sister Beatrice get off to rough start; sneaking onto the wrong bus, and ending up in the Congo without papers or money.
From there they go from refugee camp to HIV clinics, fending off wild animals and trigger happy criminals. It's a 3,000 mile rollarcoaster that spins through Rwanda, the Congo, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa - and not without laughs, a mass of Premiership-heavy football references, and extra players signing up to Dudu's mission along the way (including child orphan Foreman George and sex worker Celeste) - as they band together in a quest to put Fabrice on the 'big stage' he deserves.
Check it out - like the Galacticos, this movie is the 'Real' deal (a terrible footy pun there, but Africa United really is worth a trip to the big screen).
Read the full preview here.
8/24/2010
8/19/2010
Mentoring @ The Creative Media Camp 2010
I headed down to Camberwell College last month to speak to a room of inspirational and excited young people - my mission was to gear them up for campaigns and positive action with the next generation on the frontline...
After running through my portfolio - including my various projects with Ctrl.Alt.Shift (www.ctrlaltshift.co.uk),flashmobbing for fair trade, exposing the BNP, and getting in the fac of corrupt Lords (from the House of) - it was time for them to show me how they'd propose raising awareness and money for the Haiti earthquake victims. The question simply was: 'What kind of event would put on a year after the disaster?'
15 minutes later, and the 4 different groups pitched some of the craziest (and best) ideas I have heard from any full-time campaign coporate; visions ranging from putting a GIANT 'piggy-bank' in the centre of Trafalgar Square, to a nationwide 'Mexican wave' video flashmob, a Haiti festival and more...
That session (though it was a small part of the week-long Media Camp) could reignite anyone’s apathy in our youth today – and the video below is a tribute to them.
Our youth = a brighter future? You damn right.
After running through my portfolio - including my various projects with Ctrl.Alt.Shift (www.ctrlaltshift.co.uk),flashmobbing for fair trade, exposing the BNP, and getting in the fac of corrupt Lords (from the House of) - it was time for them to show me how they'd propose raising awareness and money for the Haiti earthquake victims. The question simply was: 'What kind of event would put on a year after the disaster?'
15 minutes later, and the 4 different groups pitched some of the craziest (and best) ideas I have heard from any full-time campaign coporate; visions ranging from putting a GIANT 'piggy-bank' in the centre of Trafalgar Square, to a nationwide 'Mexican wave' video flashmob, a Haiti festival and more...
That session (though it was a small part of the week-long Media Camp) could reignite anyone’s apathy in our youth today – and the video below is a tribute to them.
Our youth = a brighter future? You damn right.
7/28/2010
My Right To Tell The Story - MTV Blog
When asked why I do what I do by MTV Staying Alive, the answers seemed pretty simple...
My Right To Tell The Story
Guest blogger Dwain Lucktung has submitted this piece about how he uses his passion for journalism as a form of expression; as part of our “Right To Be Me” series in the run up to the International AIDS Conference 2010 in Vienna...
Censorship occurs around the world – padlocking the voices of freedom and expression. Whilst certain powers that be continue to pursue this oppression, I believe journalism (and more so online journalism today) remains the key to unhinging the strangle-hold some corrupt bodies have. I embrace my right to expose the lies and speak the truth, and my passion enables me to do that and share that information with my peers – so why stop now.
Journalism is something I’ve always seen myself doing and something I now do with great pride. It’s so much more than reading, writing and reporting. It’s about communicating, networking, really getting out there, adapting with the world’s audiences and living the stories you write about.
The best students don’t necessarily make the best journalists… I learnt that pretty swiftly following my 3-year crawl through university. I hated mundane lectures, exams and alcoholic/monotone professors, but I lived for the REAL aspects of journalism – the stuff they can’t teach you; bundling your way through a mass protest (for that perfect snapshot), exposing government corruption (with that dangerous frontline atmosphere), reviewing Vancouver’s finest on the music scene to interviewing kids on the streets of the Democratic Republic of Congo – and all to bring home a compelling story.
Come to mind, I doubt I could do anything else even partially as well. I’m way too fidgety a person, boredom strikes too easily (yes I was that student dozing off at the back of the lecture hall), but journalism is a 24/7 game I think I’ll be able to play for at least a few more years.
When I was a nervous, stuttering, chubby teen writer bustling through east London, one of my lifelong mentors always told me, ‘Find your voice, and find the power of journalism’. Sounds like a very soppy Spiderman-esque life motto, but that is exactly why journalism is such a personal thing, you are communicating a story that may resonate with so many, yet is so personal at the same time. I still won’t undermine the sensation of seeing your name (however small and italic) credited for a stunning, thought-provoking little piece of media. I think any author, blogger, writer and journalist would get the jist of that cheesy thought…
But there’s the life lesson that I hope to leave for the next generation of budding street reporters. Exercise your right to live and breathe your passion and you will find that not only will you empower yourself but you’ll capture others in turn. And don’t worry about the bags under your eyes, like me – embrace them with a stiff cup of coffee and scheduled power-naps.
Click for the full link here.
My Right To Tell The Story
Guest blogger Dwain Lucktung has submitted this piece about how he uses his passion for journalism as a form of expression; as part of our “Right To Be Me” series in the run up to the International AIDS Conference 2010 in Vienna...
Censorship occurs around the world – padlocking the voices of freedom and expression. Whilst certain powers that be continue to pursue this oppression, I believe journalism (and more so online journalism today) remains the key to unhinging the strangle-hold some corrupt bodies have. I embrace my right to expose the lies and speak the truth, and my passion enables me to do that and share that information with my peers – so why stop now.
Journalism is something I’ve always seen myself doing and something I now do with great pride. It’s so much more than reading, writing and reporting. It’s about communicating, networking, really getting out there, adapting with the world’s audiences and living the stories you write about.
The best students don’t necessarily make the best journalists… I learnt that pretty swiftly following my 3-year crawl through university. I hated mundane lectures, exams and alcoholic/monotone professors, but I lived for the REAL aspects of journalism – the stuff they can’t teach you; bundling your way through a mass protest (for that perfect snapshot), exposing government corruption (with that dangerous frontline atmosphere), reviewing Vancouver’s finest on the music scene to interviewing kids on the streets of the Democratic Republic of Congo – and all to bring home a compelling story.
Come to mind, I doubt I could do anything else even partially as well. I’m way too fidgety a person, boredom strikes too easily (yes I was that student dozing off at the back of the lecture hall), but journalism is a 24/7 game I think I’ll be able to play for at least a few more years.
When I was a nervous, stuttering, chubby teen writer bustling through east London, one of my lifelong mentors always told me, ‘Find your voice, and find the power of journalism’. Sounds like a very soppy Spiderman-esque life motto, but that is exactly why journalism is such a personal thing, you are communicating a story that may resonate with so many, yet is so personal at the same time. I still won’t undermine the sensation of seeing your name (however small and italic) credited for a stunning, thought-provoking little piece of media. I think any author, blogger, writer and journalist would get the jist of that cheesy thought…
But there’s the life lesson that I hope to leave for the next generation of budding street reporters. Exercise your right to live and breathe your passion and you will find that not only will you empower yourself but you’ll capture others in turn. And don’t worry about the bags under your eyes, like me – embrace them with a stiff cup of coffee and scheduled power-naps.
Click for the full link here.
7/15/2010
Editor's Blog: Gender Power, Platform2 + Snoop Dogg - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
Have you heard of the Robin Hood Tax campaign?? If you haven't you definitely want to get on board this 'steal from the rich to give to the poor' in-your-face activist project. It's all about demanding the big boy bankers to give a tiny proportion (0.05%) of their transactions to those needing the most 'small change' in order to combat the biggest problems of climate change and poverty...
Watch the video below, which features in my Ctrl.Alt.Shift monthly round-up. It's about fighting tax corruption, bigging up the feminist activists shouting proud, the great on-ground work of overseas volunteering programme Platform2, and rubbing shoulders with hip hop's finest - Bizarre to Snoop Doggy Dogg:
Editor's Blog - Gender Power, Platform2 & Snoop Dogg
It's been a while since I did a round-up - blame the hectic world of Ctrl.Alt.Shift (and the ruthless distractions of the World Cup and Wimbledon; of which I lost a bit of pride, and a larger bit of my wallet through various winner-takes-all sweepstake bets).
However, speaking specifically from the CAS editor's hotter than hot seat - I can say it's been nothing short of an exciting and rather blurry first couple of months, with much credit due for the fantastic, ever expanding batch of contributors to the website. With the merely impossible task of listing every bit of content that sent that tingle; here are my recent highlights, in and out of these stuffy CAS walls…
GENDER EMPOWERMENT – as strong as ever on the agenda. The creation of the UN Women body seems solid proof that whilst progress has been made since the days of grave oppression and ‘No vote if you’re a skirt!’ - the job is certainly not done; especially in regions of the world where females remain second-class citizens… still, it’s another step in the right direction, as described here by Adizah Tejani.
Also embodying female voices of inspiration - check out HIV activist Carol Grayson's stunning blogs for us. And keep an eye out for writer Jacqueline Campbell; slightly off the CAS radar (though soon to find a home on our blogroll), she is as outspoken as it gets, hitting hard on gender issue case studies, relentless in the fight for the equal rights and justice for women. Stay tuned, her voice is set to rumble our stage…
Activism spans across all global and social issues which passionate people believe are worth fighting for. Queue the Climate9 crew who I’m thrilled to have on board. The climate change activists (from Plane Stupid) are undeterred by arrests and possible prison sentences (occupying Aberdeen airport was worth it!), and now, fresh from their court room drama, they’re set to deliver a grand series of blogs to demonstrate how they get down. Check out their CAS contributions so far, an interview with C9 member Dan Glass and the beauty of civil disobedience by Richard George.
All the Postcard From The Edge writers (new and old), offering their diaries from across the world, are still going strong.
As are the mass of Platform2 volunteers who are doing a heap of collaborative actions with CAS, from writing for the site about their ten week experiences in developing countries, to launching a stunning EP called ‘I Am The Change’ , to running events and exhibitions; the next one being the ONE : SIX : EIGHT : ZERO art showcase at Proud’s Strand Gallery in central London on July 23. It’ll be free – it’ll be inspirational – it’ll be emotional and memorable. So come on down for a mingle…
My Video of the Week award goes to the latest Robin Hood Tax campaign viral, featuring Sir Ben Kingsley and old CAS ambassador, actor Noel Clarke. This is how you go street on tax corruption and global poverty:
Finally, celeb gossip always lightens the mood, but unlike Now or OK!, here at CAS we ask the questions that go beyond the glitz and glamour and into the pits of fighting injustice and mentalities towards poverty… the good stuff! – so many thanks to our latest targets, Matisyahu, D-12 rap artist Bizarre, K’NAAN (and the many more to come) for stepping up for a CAS Q&A grilling.
Note: The legend that is Snoop Dogg would’ve been a nice addition, however my 1-on-1 with the ‘tha Doggfather’ last week was specifically for RWD (which can be read here). Still, one can dream what the hip hop God would’ve responded to other less conventional questions surrounding poverty, climate change, corruption, HIV stigma and the rest. Nevertheless, beyond chatting about fashion and smashing it up at festivals, it was good to hear Snoop talk about the positive influence of music: “I think music brings a positive change in anybody. Look around at some of these artists, and not just rappers - but those who have come from hard backgrounds and tough lifestyles, or some sort of struggle to get to where they’re at; they’re able to create music to make people understand and appreciate.”
From Glastonbury action to CAS action - we hear that Snoop.
Words: Dwain Lucktung. Editor, Ctrl.Alt.Shift.
Watch the video below, which features in my Ctrl.Alt.Shift monthly round-up. It's about fighting tax corruption, bigging up the feminist activists shouting proud, the great on-ground work of overseas volunteering programme Platform2, and rubbing shoulders with hip hop's finest - Bizarre to Snoop Doggy Dogg:
Editor's Blog - Gender Power, Platform2 & Snoop Dogg
It's been a while since I did a round-up - blame the hectic world of Ctrl.Alt.Shift (and the ruthless distractions of the World Cup and Wimbledon; of which I lost a bit of pride, and a larger bit of my wallet through various winner-takes-all sweepstake bets).
However, speaking specifically from the CAS editor's hotter than hot seat - I can say it's been nothing short of an exciting and rather blurry first couple of months, with much credit due for the fantastic, ever expanding batch of contributors to the website. With the merely impossible task of listing every bit of content that sent that tingle; here are my recent highlights, in and out of these stuffy CAS walls…
GENDER EMPOWERMENT – as strong as ever on the agenda. The creation of the UN Women body seems solid proof that whilst progress has been made since the days of grave oppression and ‘No vote if you’re a skirt!’ - the job is certainly not done; especially in regions of the world where females remain second-class citizens… still, it’s another step in the right direction, as described here by Adizah Tejani.
Also embodying female voices of inspiration - check out HIV activist Carol Grayson's stunning blogs for us. And keep an eye out for writer Jacqueline Campbell; slightly off the CAS radar (though soon to find a home on our blogroll), she is as outspoken as it gets, hitting hard on gender issue case studies, relentless in the fight for the equal rights and justice for women. Stay tuned, her voice is set to rumble our stage…
Activism spans across all global and social issues which passionate people believe are worth fighting for. Queue the Climate9 crew who I’m thrilled to have on board. The climate change activists (from Plane Stupid) are undeterred by arrests and possible prison sentences (occupying Aberdeen airport was worth it!), and now, fresh from their court room drama, they’re set to deliver a grand series of blogs to demonstrate how they get down. Check out their CAS contributions so far, an interview with C9 member Dan Glass and the beauty of civil disobedience by Richard George.
All the Postcard From The Edge writers (new and old), offering their diaries from across the world, are still going strong.
As are the mass of Platform2 volunteers who are doing a heap of collaborative actions with CAS, from writing for the site about their ten week experiences in developing countries, to launching a stunning EP called ‘I Am The Change’ , to running events and exhibitions; the next one being the ONE : SIX : EIGHT : ZERO art showcase at Proud’s Strand Gallery in central London on July 23. It’ll be free – it’ll be inspirational – it’ll be emotional and memorable. So come on down for a mingle…
My Video of the Week award goes to the latest Robin Hood Tax campaign viral, featuring Sir Ben Kingsley and old CAS ambassador, actor Noel Clarke. This is how you go street on tax corruption and global poverty:
Finally, celeb gossip always lightens the mood, but unlike Now or OK!, here at CAS we ask the questions that go beyond the glitz and glamour and into the pits of fighting injustice and mentalities towards poverty… the good stuff! – so many thanks to our latest targets, Matisyahu, D-12 rap artist Bizarre, K’NAAN (and the many more to come) for stepping up for a CAS Q&A grilling.
Note: The legend that is Snoop Dogg would’ve been a nice addition, however my 1-on-1 with the ‘tha Doggfather’ last week was specifically for RWD (which can be read here). Still, one can dream what the hip hop God would’ve responded to other less conventional questions surrounding poverty, climate change, corruption, HIV stigma and the rest. Nevertheless, beyond chatting about fashion and smashing it up at festivals, it was good to hear Snoop talk about the positive influence of music: “I think music brings a positive change in anybody. Look around at some of these artists, and not just rappers - but those who have come from hard backgrounds and tough lifestyles, or some sort of struggle to get to where they’re at; they’re able to create music to make people understand and appreciate.”
From Glastonbury action to CAS action - we hear that Snoop.
Words: Dwain Lucktung. Editor, Ctrl.Alt.Shift.
7/09/2010
Snoop Dogg Interview - RWD Online
The legend was laiiiiid back. The 15 minute sesh flew by as he sat behind his shades spouting quirky remarks. For such a pivotal figure in the hip hop industry, it was a slightly more humble performance than I was expecting by Mr Gin & Juice; who confessed herbal tea was actually his poison of choice before showtime (that part didn't make the cut in this publication - so there's your exclusive).
'Don't meet you heroes because they always disappoint you' is a common phrase amoung journos. And whilst d-o-double G is far from my personal idol, I've got to say the gangsta rapper of hip hop royalty stepped up to my plate as the undisupted Doggfather. Here's the Q&A for RWD online:
Online Interview: Snoop Dogg
After topping the UK singles chart (alongside fellow California-bred Katy Perry), tearing it up at Shepherd’s Bush Empire and smashing the Wireless and Glasto fests – Snoop Dogg remains perched on top of the hip hop food chain. Dwain Lucktung catches up with The legend, Tha Doggfather, to talk about his latest projects, including the Malice In Wonderland album and why he’s the only gangsta rapper to be a Jedi in adidas’ Star Wars spoof…
How did it feel to be part of the adidas Star Wars Cantina project?
It was cool. They were looking for a villain to do his thing ya’ know – and I was the best person for the job.
What’s it like being back in the UK?
It feels good to be back here – happy to finally be able to perform for the people; a lot of the people here appreciate what I do, so I’m very honoured to be back in the UK.
Favourite place to hang?
In London…? Probably my hotel room [laughs].
Have you seen any fashion trends in London that you’ll be taking back to the US?
I just love the whole vibe of London – that’s why it’s always been one of my favourite spots to come; I’m just trying to marinade and take it all in so I can take some of it, whatever, back home with me.
You’re always in an adidas tracksuits. Who’s your favourite person that wears a tracksuit?
It would be Run DMC. They were the ones to make it cool to wear anywhere, no matter what event it was. They were the symbol of the tracksuit, and they helped me figure out how that was what I had to be doing.
(Regarding your acting career) – Are there any UK shows you’d like a shot at?
Well my favourite show don’t come on no more – The Benny Hill Show. That was my favourite, I always dreamed of being on that show [laughs].
There are some rumours flying around about you making an appearance in Coronation Street… any truth in that?
Some big people in big places were trying to make that happen, so tell your mum it might happen. Stay tuned in…
What kind of TV shows in general do you like watching?
I like old school TV shows like Good Times, What’s Happening!!!, The Jeffersons – the latest show I liked was The Wire though; that was a great show.
What can you tell us about your latest album Malice In Wonderland and your various collaborations on it (with the likes of Jazmine Sullivan, Lil Jon, Soulja Boy and others)?
Malice was about my growth as an artist, and where I’m at right now. (As for the collaborations) I worked with certain artists that were appealing to me or anyone that I felt could assist on the song I was putting together. You get so far into the music industry like I am and it’s about making the right decision to continue to do what you’re doing, but working with people you like and have never had the opportunity to work with; and I never have a problem with calling and asking. If I love you and appreciate your music, I’ll tell you – “Hey, I love what you’re doing.”
You’ve got some crunk influences on Malice – is that something you’re planning to work more with?
Yeah, but I’ve always been a fan of music (in general), so it’s like no matter what country it’s coming from, whether the music is brand new or old school, I’ve always had a love for it and been able to take what is considered new and blend it in with the old (and always make it work).
From Boy Better Know, Wiley to Tinchy Stryder, we have a lot of really good grime acts in the UK – have you ever thought of collaborating with some of them?
Yeah definitely! I like Wiley – he’s dope, and I did a remix with Tinie Tempah, so I’m gradually moving my way into the scene here. I feel like that music is well respected here, and it deserves to have worldwide attention; so I’m looking forward to working with some more UK acts.
You played at the Wireless Festival the other day. How did it feel to perform at the festival in front of all those people?
I just love performing in front of people that love me. It doesn’t matter where it is. They always tell me when I did Glastonbury that there were about 90,000 fans or something like that. Whatever. I never pay attention to how many people, I’m more about the expression and the feeling people give me. If I perform in front of 5 people who bring a lot more energy, sometimes those 5 people can bring a better show out of me than 90,000.
You’ve broadcasted shows on YouTube before (Snoop Dogg YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/westfesttv?blend=1&ob=4) – how do you feel about the way websites like that and Twitter are changing the way artists communicate with their fans?
It’s a great way to get up close and personal with your fans, it gives them a chance to actually be with you in a stage moment – it’s not about a script, they see you being you. It also lets you see what the fans love about you.
You seem to feed off the love of your fans. Whether it’s hip hop or pop, do you believe music can be a catalyst for positive change in you, and people in general?
I think music brings a positive change in anybody. Look around at some of these artists, and not just rappers – but those who have come from hard backgrounds and tough lifestyles, or some sort of struggle to get to where they’re at; they’re able to create music to make people understand and appreciate.
You’ve been performing and producing music for long time. What keeps you going? What makes you stop from just laying back and enjoying what you’ve got?
I love what I do. Honestly, I take my job seriously, and when I do music, its fun for me too; I enjoy every minute of it.
What is left for Snoop Dogg to achieve?
Well I’m actually doing what I’m suppose to be doing right now, so it’s not really about goals or achieving things. I don’t have any goals – I just do what I do and it’s just a natural part of who I am.
So what’s next? Anything you’re working on that’s exclusive?
Yeah, I’m working on a new movie and a record called ‘A Woman’s Touch’. It’s a heartfelt movie and album which will be dedicated to all the women in my life including my grandmother, my mum, my wife and my daughter. It’ll be a soft tone Snoop Dogg record that you’ve never heard before…
What’s your advice for relationships, having been in yours for so long?
You’ve got to be friends first, whether that’s your opposite or soul mate. You’ve got to be friends because you’ve got to understand them and they’ve got to understand you.
Snoop Dogg motto?
I go hard. I don’t know how to go half-speed; whether it’s a scrimmage, a practice or a rehearsal, in front of a thousand people or rehearsing by myself – you can’t tell a difference because I always go hard.
Link to full RWD article here
'Don't meet you heroes because they always disappoint you' is a common phrase amoung journos. And whilst d-o-double G is far from my personal idol, I've got to say the gangsta rapper of hip hop royalty stepped up to my plate as the undisupted Doggfather. Here's the Q&A for RWD online:
Online Interview: Snoop Dogg
After topping the UK singles chart (alongside fellow California-bred Katy Perry), tearing it up at Shepherd’s Bush Empire and smashing the Wireless and Glasto fests – Snoop Dogg remains perched on top of the hip hop food chain. Dwain Lucktung catches up with The legend, Tha Doggfather, to talk about his latest projects, including the Malice In Wonderland album and why he’s the only gangsta rapper to be a Jedi in adidas’ Star Wars spoof…
How did it feel to be part of the adidas Star Wars Cantina project?
It was cool. They were looking for a villain to do his thing ya’ know – and I was the best person for the job.
What’s it like being back in the UK?
It feels good to be back here – happy to finally be able to perform for the people; a lot of the people here appreciate what I do, so I’m very honoured to be back in the UK.
Favourite place to hang?
In London…? Probably my hotel room [laughs].
Have you seen any fashion trends in London that you’ll be taking back to the US?
I just love the whole vibe of London – that’s why it’s always been one of my favourite spots to come; I’m just trying to marinade and take it all in so I can take some of it, whatever, back home with me.
You’re always in an adidas tracksuits. Who’s your favourite person that wears a tracksuit?
It would be Run DMC. They were the ones to make it cool to wear anywhere, no matter what event it was. They were the symbol of the tracksuit, and they helped me figure out how that was what I had to be doing.
(Regarding your acting career) – Are there any UK shows you’d like a shot at?
Well my favourite show don’t come on no more – The Benny Hill Show. That was my favourite, I always dreamed of being on that show [laughs].
There are some rumours flying around about you making an appearance in Coronation Street… any truth in that?
Some big people in big places were trying to make that happen, so tell your mum it might happen. Stay tuned in…
What kind of TV shows in general do you like watching?
I like old school TV shows like Good Times, What’s Happening!!!, The Jeffersons – the latest show I liked was The Wire though; that was a great show.
What can you tell us about your latest album Malice In Wonderland and your various collaborations on it (with the likes of Jazmine Sullivan, Lil Jon, Soulja Boy and others)?
Malice was about my growth as an artist, and where I’m at right now. (As for the collaborations) I worked with certain artists that were appealing to me or anyone that I felt could assist on the song I was putting together. You get so far into the music industry like I am and it’s about making the right decision to continue to do what you’re doing, but working with people you like and have never had the opportunity to work with; and I never have a problem with calling and asking. If I love you and appreciate your music, I’ll tell you – “Hey, I love what you’re doing.”
You’ve got some crunk influences on Malice – is that something you’re planning to work more with?
Yeah, but I’ve always been a fan of music (in general), so it’s like no matter what country it’s coming from, whether the music is brand new or old school, I’ve always had a love for it and been able to take what is considered new and blend it in with the old (and always make it work).
From Boy Better Know, Wiley to Tinchy Stryder, we have a lot of really good grime acts in the UK – have you ever thought of collaborating with some of them?
Yeah definitely! I like Wiley – he’s dope, and I did a remix with Tinie Tempah, so I’m gradually moving my way into the scene here. I feel like that music is well respected here, and it deserves to have worldwide attention; so I’m looking forward to working with some more UK acts.
You played at the Wireless Festival the other day. How did it feel to perform at the festival in front of all those people?
I just love performing in front of people that love me. It doesn’t matter where it is. They always tell me when I did Glastonbury that there were about 90,000 fans or something like that. Whatever. I never pay attention to how many people, I’m more about the expression and the feeling people give me. If I perform in front of 5 people who bring a lot more energy, sometimes those 5 people can bring a better show out of me than 90,000.
You’ve broadcasted shows on YouTube before (Snoop Dogg YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/westfesttv?blend=1&ob=4) – how do you feel about the way websites like that and Twitter are changing the way artists communicate with their fans?
It’s a great way to get up close and personal with your fans, it gives them a chance to actually be with you in a stage moment – it’s not about a script, they see you being you. It also lets you see what the fans love about you.
You seem to feed off the love of your fans. Whether it’s hip hop or pop, do you believe music can be a catalyst for positive change in you, and people in general?
I think music brings a positive change in anybody. Look around at some of these artists, and not just rappers – but those who have come from hard backgrounds and tough lifestyles, or some sort of struggle to get to where they’re at; they’re able to create music to make people understand and appreciate.
You’ve been performing and producing music for long time. What keeps you going? What makes you stop from just laying back and enjoying what you’ve got?
I love what I do. Honestly, I take my job seriously, and when I do music, its fun for me too; I enjoy every minute of it.
What is left for Snoop Dogg to achieve?
Well I’m actually doing what I’m suppose to be doing right now, so it’s not really about goals or achieving things. I don’t have any goals – I just do what I do and it’s just a natural part of who I am.
So what’s next? Anything you’re working on that’s exclusive?
Yeah, I’m working on a new movie and a record called ‘A Woman’s Touch’. It’s a heartfelt movie and album which will be dedicated to all the women in my life including my grandmother, my mum, my wife and my daughter. It’ll be a soft tone Snoop Dogg record that you’ve never heard before…
What’s your advice for relationships, having been in yours for so long?
You’ve got to be friends first, whether that’s your opposite or soul mate. You’ve got to be friends because you’ve got to understand them and they’ve got to understand you.
Snoop Dogg motto?
I go hard. I don’t know how to go half-speed; whether it’s a scrimmage, a practice or a rehearsal, in front of a thousand people or rehearsing by myself – you can’t tell a difference because I always go hard.
Link to full RWD article here
6/15/2010
Interview With Jewish Rap Artist Matisyahu - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
One kool guy - in one cool (though slightly too flash-my-wod-of-cash) location. Through the doors of London's swanky-beyond-swanky Soho House I came, rolling in for my 20 minutes with perhaps my most favourite Jew (aside from Woody Allen), rap artist Matisyahu. I've been watching Matis on Youtube for years, and with his last big debut album hitting our stores a few years back - I'm thinking this might just be the year he jumps back onto the frontline of our iPod playlists...
Here's my Q&A with the guru-esque musical genius - topics of discussion were religion, spirituality, music, music, live music and "fusion":
Ctrl Meets Matisyahu
Two words come to mind after meeting Grammy-nominated Jewish artist Matisyahu - ‘fusion’ and ‘spirituality’; two key aspects that make up his music, and his life…
It was quite an intense session in the plush Soho House rendezvous, as the renowned musician (who I had been watching on YouTube all day) squeezed in some time for me in between creating set lists for his London shows, and planning his trip back to the US to continue the promotion of his next album ‘Light’ (June 21 release date).
Laid back like a guru sipping on chilled tap water, almost every answer to my questions (delving into his musicality, to his thoughts on global issues of poverty and climate change) was postponed for grave thought, and deep consideration. Unlike most ‘celeb’ encounters where regurgitated template responses may roll right off the tongue, it seems Matisyahu is admittedly still on his own journey, still trying to figure out his own identity. Whilst the world’s problems continue to revolve and evolve (some of which are currently involving the people of Matisyahu’s nation), this Brooklyn-raised reggae, hip hop-influenced, pop-rock musician stays true to himself; stepping back from some global politics to tackle his own path and complexities. Enter the mind of the Israeli rapper:
What do people call you for short Matisyahu?
Just call me Matis man.
What you been up to this week Matis?
I’ve got a record coming out later this month; my next album ‘Light’ with the first single to be released off it, ‘One Day’ - I’ve just been promoting that.
Are you in the UK for long?
Only for a few days, I’m here doing a few shows including an acoustic set at The Borderline club: before heading back to America on the weekend.
Tell me about your music? What is the Matisyahu sound?
Well the sound is a fusion - it has sort of a reggae core, a hip hop edge, and live…? - It has a free improvisation kind of feel.
I’ve read some things about the importance of your spirituality… Does that play a big part in your music?
I am still asking myself that question, and it’s something I’m still grappling with to find a definitive answer… The real question there I guess is ‘Who am I?’ For me, being Jewish is not separate (from me or my music), but it goes beyond just religion - Judaism is a way of life, and like my culture, my history and even the city I live in; they all serve as sources of my identity; and everything that I do (including my music), starts with my background and spirituality in a lot of ways… For example, the music itself is the expression of who I am and obviously an outcome of what I am, but ‘who I am’ relates to where I’ve come from – I was raised and born with a Jewish identity to a certain degree, so it plays a part in all aspects of my life, but we live in a modern (very secular at times) world, so whilst it (Judaism) doesn’t depict what I do, it is always at the back of my consciousness.
Has that always been the case?
As I got older I went through a big transition to consider how much Judaism would influence my life, and I realised I was lacking that part of my identity - that’s when I started to delve more into the history and issues of my background, and so it started to become a bigger part of who I am… But at the same time I don’t feel limited by it - humanity is humanity, music is music; Judaism doesn’t change my treatment of that, relationships and the world.
About 12 minutes later, and after a few Matisyahu ‘umm’s and ‘errrr’s –
Kind of a complex question Matis?
Nah it’s fine, to be honest I don’t want to waste my time on questions that aren’t complex; questions don’t need to be simple, nothing is black and white… Every question can be deep and treated that way, so let’s continue.
Are you proud with the sound and identity you’ve created?
Yeah. I have done something that has not really been done by too many people, which is to somehow identify and incorporate specific aspects of Judaism in my life, fusing that identity together with many aspects of modern culture, humanity, and society through my music. My whole ‘thing’ is about blending those parts to form some kind of artistic, creative connection from my roots to my current culture and audience.
Music-wise (or just as an individual), would you describe yourself as being politically and socially minded?
Not particularly… Though I guess everything is political in some way, even if you’re not political you can end up aligning yourself with some type of politics. But my nature is more spiritual and more of a search to understand my identity, my history, and my future - and less about figuring out the rest of the world.
So, do global issues such as climate change and poverty ever cross your mind…?
I think one basic thing that is relevant to me is having that state of awareness, and being respectful of the world in all aspects. It doesn’t necessarily mean being ‘political’, it means respecting people, the world itself and the environment, and to not take for granted a lot of the societal norms - but to actually investigate into them and the hidden problems. For example, I recently became a vegan and stopped eating meat after reading a book on it called ‘Eating Animals’ by Jonathan Safran Foer. It opened my eyes to all of that…
For the rest of the interview, please click here
Matisyahu - One Day from 100% on Vimeo.
Here's my Q&A with the guru-esque musical genius - topics of discussion were religion, spirituality, music, music, live music and "fusion":
Ctrl Meets Matisyahu
Two words come to mind after meeting Grammy-nominated Jewish artist Matisyahu - ‘fusion’ and ‘spirituality’; two key aspects that make up his music, and his life…
It was quite an intense session in the plush Soho House rendezvous, as the renowned musician (who I had been watching on YouTube all day) squeezed in some time for me in between creating set lists for his London shows, and planning his trip back to the US to continue the promotion of his next album ‘Light’ (June 21 release date).
Laid back like a guru sipping on chilled tap water, almost every answer to my questions (delving into his musicality, to his thoughts on global issues of poverty and climate change) was postponed for grave thought, and deep consideration. Unlike most ‘celeb’ encounters where regurgitated template responses may roll right off the tongue, it seems Matisyahu is admittedly still on his own journey, still trying to figure out his own identity. Whilst the world’s problems continue to revolve and evolve (some of which are currently involving the people of Matisyahu’s nation), this Brooklyn-raised reggae, hip hop-influenced, pop-rock musician stays true to himself; stepping back from some global politics to tackle his own path and complexities. Enter the mind of the Israeli rapper:
What do people call you for short Matisyahu?
Just call me Matis man.
What you been up to this week Matis?
I’ve got a record coming out later this month; my next album ‘Light’ with the first single to be released off it, ‘One Day’ - I’ve just been promoting that.
Are you in the UK for long?
Only for a few days, I’m here doing a few shows including an acoustic set at The Borderline club: before heading back to America on the weekend.
Tell me about your music? What is the Matisyahu sound?
Well the sound is a fusion - it has sort of a reggae core, a hip hop edge, and live…? - It has a free improvisation kind of feel.
I’ve read some things about the importance of your spirituality… Does that play a big part in your music?
I am still asking myself that question, and it’s something I’m still grappling with to find a definitive answer… The real question there I guess is ‘Who am I?’ For me, being Jewish is not separate (from me or my music), but it goes beyond just religion - Judaism is a way of life, and like my culture, my history and even the city I live in; they all serve as sources of my identity; and everything that I do (including my music), starts with my background and spirituality in a lot of ways… For example, the music itself is the expression of who I am and obviously an outcome of what I am, but ‘who I am’ relates to where I’ve come from – I was raised and born with a Jewish identity to a certain degree, so it plays a part in all aspects of my life, but we live in a modern (very secular at times) world, so whilst it (Judaism) doesn’t depict what I do, it is always at the back of my consciousness.
Has that always been the case?
As I got older I went through a big transition to consider how much Judaism would influence my life, and I realised I was lacking that part of my identity - that’s when I started to delve more into the history and issues of my background, and so it started to become a bigger part of who I am… But at the same time I don’t feel limited by it - humanity is humanity, music is music; Judaism doesn’t change my treatment of that, relationships and the world.
About 12 minutes later, and after a few Matisyahu ‘umm’s and ‘errrr’s –
Kind of a complex question Matis?
Nah it’s fine, to be honest I don’t want to waste my time on questions that aren’t complex; questions don’t need to be simple, nothing is black and white… Every question can be deep and treated that way, so let’s continue.
Are you proud with the sound and identity you’ve created?
Yeah. I have done something that has not really been done by too many people, which is to somehow identify and incorporate specific aspects of Judaism in my life, fusing that identity together with many aspects of modern culture, humanity, and society through my music. My whole ‘thing’ is about blending those parts to form some kind of artistic, creative connection from my roots to my current culture and audience.
Music-wise (or just as an individual), would you describe yourself as being politically and socially minded?
Not particularly… Though I guess everything is political in some way, even if you’re not political you can end up aligning yourself with some type of politics. But my nature is more spiritual and more of a search to understand my identity, my history, and my future - and less about figuring out the rest of the world.
So, do global issues such as climate change and poverty ever cross your mind…?
I think one basic thing that is relevant to me is having that state of awareness, and being respectful of the world in all aspects. It doesn’t necessarily mean being ‘political’, it means respecting people, the world itself and the environment, and to not take for granted a lot of the societal norms - but to actually investigate into them and the hidden problems. For example, I recently became a vegan and stopped eating meat after reading a book on it called ‘Eating Animals’ by Jonathan Safran Foer. It opened my eyes to all of that…
For the rest of the interview, please click here
5/24/2010
Youth-Led Media Network Bidding For Barclays £50,000!
Get on board peoples! As aforementioned in many of my past blog posts, the Youth-Led Media Network is well in motion - a huge UK-wide directory of youth-led media organisations and playas in the field; offering contacts, jobs and mentoring, training and general peer-on-peer chit-chat.
The young Network directors (a team of around a dozen, including moi) have already received a mass of support and endorsements (not least from over 150 youth-led media organisations across the nation), but funding is required to put all the thoughts and strategies into action.
One of our routes has been to pursue the Barclays Business Take One Small Step Competition, where they offer £50,000 to boost ten business ideas (hopefully one of those will be ours!)
To show your support on our dreams to fully engage and connect the potential of the UK's youth media, check out the link below, add a comment, click and give a thumbs up - it's a 60 second action to support a progressive plan we fully believe is needed:
www.takeonesmallstep.co.uk/Entry/View/3793
The young Network directors (a team of around a dozen, including moi) have already received a mass of support and endorsements (not least from over 150 youth-led media organisations across the nation), but funding is required to put all the thoughts and strategies into action.
One of our routes has been to pursue the Barclays Business Take One Small Step Competition, where they offer £50,000 to boost ten business ideas (hopefully one of those will be ours!)
To show your support on our dreams to fully engage and connect the potential of the UK's youth media, check out the link below, add a comment, click and give a thumbs up - it's a 60 second action to support a progressive plan we fully believe is needed:
www.takeonesmallstep.co.uk/Entry/View/3793
5/10/2010
Ctrl.Alt.Shift 'Dear Diary' Event & Exhibition
From Kenya to the UK, from Kurt Cobain to Anais Nin, this 'Dear Diary' event is going to turn heads across the nation. All the info is below and here, the exhibition is only open for two weeks so get your asses down to Covent Garden and sneak a gander at some limited edition material...
5/01/2010
Ctrl.Alt.Shift Haiti Update, Comic Tour + Fiddy's Farewell
The end of one era = the eruption of new one (at least that's my current mission, as newly appointed digital content editor of Ctrl.Alt.Shift). With so many achievements roped in by the former editor, my mentor and friend, Chantelle Fiddy, I dare say there's a daunting (albeit exciting too) follow-up journey ahead. But my plan is to continue the hard-hitting edge of CAS content, retain the old, whilst bringing in new passionate contributors (jet me an email if you're up for the challenge!) who will be the social commentors on current affairs for the next generation - look out for reports from Ghana to the Middle East...
Below is my latest round-up for the initiative, and first report as editor. I give thanks and endless love to the Fiddy, give the latest stats on our Haiti appeal, with a low-down on how our Unmasks Corruption comic UK tour is going, and a heads up on our rave in Manchester. All good things now, and upon the horizon. Enjoy the next chapter, I'm writing it as I go along:
CAS Round-up: Comic Tour, Haiti News, And A Fond Farewell
With so much going in the world of Ctrl.Alt.Shift right now, we thought we’d round up the latest action – just in case you’re struggling to juggle our manic movements across the nation…
Our Haiti work has come over leaps and bounds since the tragic earthquake in January. Following the Haiti rave we held two weeks after the quake (which brought in over £10,000 from supporters/ravers), in February, Ctrl.Alt.Shift launched a massive auction through eBay; selling off bundle after bundle of amazing and unique items to raise even more money for the Haiti emergency appeal.
We auctioned a lifesize Kung Fu Panda, signed cds, concert tickets, a Kate Moss handbag, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hang out with Diversity at their studio, two signed Sony PSPs, and loads of other collector's items…
The auction is now closed, but we’ve got great feedback from some very happy customers, including, “Fantastic, glad to support the cause and also get something I wanted!” and, “Greatttttttttttttt AAAAAAAAA++++++++++++” (little sense – but we understood the sentiment). Altogether we sold about 20 items and have raised more than £2200, bringing our total for Haiti to well over £12,000 – and you can find out where your money went here. Also note you can continue to donate to the cause here.
With Haiti’s people in our sights, that hasn’t stopped us building our movement across the UK – which has been growing with our Unmasks Corruption comic exhibition tour. We’ve hit Bristol, Nottingham, Liverpool and Leeds so far – with Manchester’s Noiselab being our next pit-stop on the map (details coming soon).
Manchester’s getting a double dose of CAS action this month, as on April 30 we will collaborate with Mind on Fire for a dubstep showcase to kick-start your summer. Contact Theatre is the venue, £4 on door is the price, so book it in and make sure you don’t miss out on the live artwork, films, and groundshaking beats provided by Nedry, In The Loop and a host of other DJ’s.
With all this, our CAS world of content bids a fond farewell to the beloved Chantelle Fiddy who has moved on to pasture new...
To read the full article, please click here
Below is my latest round-up for the initiative, and first report as editor. I give thanks and endless love to the Fiddy, give the latest stats on our Haiti appeal, with a low-down on how our Unmasks Corruption comic UK tour is going, and a heads up on our rave in Manchester. All good things now, and upon the horizon. Enjoy the next chapter, I'm writing it as I go along:
CAS Round-up: Comic Tour, Haiti News, And A Fond Farewell
With so much going in the world of Ctrl.Alt.Shift right now, we thought we’d round up the latest action – just in case you’re struggling to juggle our manic movements across the nation…
Our Haiti work has come over leaps and bounds since the tragic earthquake in January. Following the Haiti rave we held two weeks after the quake (which brought in over £10,000 from supporters/ravers), in February, Ctrl.Alt.Shift launched a massive auction through eBay; selling off bundle after bundle of amazing and unique items to raise even more money for the Haiti emergency appeal.
We auctioned a lifesize Kung Fu Panda, signed cds, concert tickets, a Kate Moss handbag, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hang out with Diversity at their studio, two signed Sony PSPs, and loads of other collector's items…
The auction is now closed, but we’ve got great feedback from some very happy customers, including, “Fantastic, glad to support the cause and also get something I wanted!” and, “Greatttttttttttttt AAAAAAAAA++++++++++++” (little sense – but we understood the sentiment). Altogether we sold about 20 items and have raised more than £2200, bringing our total for Haiti to well over £12,000 – and you can find out where your money went here. Also note you can continue to donate to the cause here.
With Haiti’s people in our sights, that hasn’t stopped us building our movement across the UK – which has been growing with our Unmasks Corruption comic exhibition tour. We’ve hit Bristol, Nottingham, Liverpool and Leeds so far – with Manchester’s Noiselab being our next pit-stop on the map (details coming soon).
Manchester’s getting a double dose of CAS action this month, as on April 30 we will collaborate with Mind on Fire for a dubstep showcase to kick-start your summer. Contact Theatre is the venue, £4 on door is the price, so book it in and make sure you don’t miss out on the live artwork, films, and groundshaking beats provided by Nedry, In The Loop and a host of other DJ’s.
With all this, our CAS world of content bids a fond farewell to the beloved Chantelle Fiddy who has moved on to pasture new...
To read the full article, please click here
4/22/2010
'Moustique' Video - Malaria Prevention In The DRCongo
I just uploaded onto the Ctrl.Alt.Shift site this great animation about malaria prevention for distribution in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 14 days reporting in Kinshasa on the education and HIV projects (in winter 2008) was a major turning point in my journalism career, opening my eyes to a world of international development work - which explains why you'll see a mix of music reviews, social commentary and current affairs/global issue topics on my blog! Take a four minute Kitkat break and enjoy the vid:
Animation by: Luke Whittaker (London, UK)
Music by: Océan Clef de Fa, Institute National des Arts (Kinshasa, DRC)
Music recorded, produced and mastered by: Mark Nunn, Joe Herrmann and Jason Air (in Kinshasa and London)
With support from: Rob Edwards (volunteer, London, UK)
Animation by: Luke Whittaker (London, UK)
Music by: Océan Clef de Fa, Institute National des Arts (Kinshasa, DRC)
Music recorded, produced and mastered by: Mark Nunn, Joe Herrmann and Jason Air (in Kinshasa and London)
With support from: Rob Edwards (volunteer, London, UK)
4/12/2010
Tribute To Editor, Journalist, Mentor - Chantelle Fiddy
I've worked alongside the Fiddy since I was a spotty, chubby, hustling street reporter of a teen. The stunning flick of her blonde hair wasn't exactly what I was expecting when I walked through the doors of south and east London's LIVE Magazine, but watching her co-ordinate a mass of thriving young media runners, always raising the spirits of the room with her 'watch me get down lowww' random dance antics (inbetween stern orders), whilst never failing to produce astounding, innovating results (with whatever team she was working with) - I KNEW I was in the right place for work experience; bear in mind it was also Chantelle who replied quick-time to my last minute desperate call for a uni work placement; after my TRACE mag arrangement fell through in winter 2007...
Fast forward a few months.
Summer of 2008 hits, I've graduated (and lost a bit of weight following the final uni year of depressing malnuitrition), looking for the next step... Fiddy is still doing her thing, substituted the blonde flow for the spacey brunette bob, but still writing for the likes of (the now sadly deceased) London Paper, Mixmag, Dazed&Confused (and many many others), and prepping for her next project - Ctrl.Alt.Shift. It was here, on the epic fouth floor of an office block in Waterloo, that we bumped shoulders once again. Editor Fiddy got me down as an initial volunteer staff writer (eventual deputy editor), and alongside a mad collective of inspirational individuals, we conjured up some groundbreaking global development work, rallying in a UK 'next generation' movement tackling the issues that really matter. The archive of work over the past two years is too long to brief, but the highlights will include two Southbank festivals, four consumer magazines, and a Haiti rave that raised over £10,000 for the earthquake victims - ALL of this and much more with Chantelle anchoring the way...
Fiddy left our Ctrl.Alt.Shift shores last week, moving on to pasture new - but she'll forever be in our (mine especially) hearts and memories as a pioneering journlist, a booty-shaking rebel to the norm and expected, a one-of-a-kind mentor. NO SHE'S NOT DEAD! This is not a eulogy (a Nandos sesh with the Fiddy is around the corner), but it is a much needed, long-time coming tribute to a remarkable woman who has paved the example of how things should get done in this manic world we work in. And no doubt Ctrl.Alt.Shift will appear as a short chapter in her colourful carreer, but from what I've witnessed, hers will be tough shoes to fill (and my yeti size 11's don't help...). Here's my love to Fiddy for the Ctrl.Alt.Shift faithful:
A Tribute To CAS Editor Chantelle Fiddy
A born leader, Chantelle Fiddy took on the grand job of Ctrl.Alt.Shift editor in 2008 with the intention to inspire a new generation of socially-minded activists (in her own, unique little way).
Under and alongside the guidance of ‘The Big Boss’ - CAS creator Katrin Owusu - Chantelle has made tidal waves of progress, not only bringing innovation and astounding content to the CAS website and magazines, but also setting up events and opportunities which have engaged and united the CAS community that exists today. Last week, Chantelle left our headquarters to pursue other goals; but she will remain a close advisor and mentor - so in her honour (and as we still sit here mourning her departure), we lift our glasses and enjoy the highlights...
The only way to really gather any sense of how this eccentric, multi-talented, crazy, passionate, workaholic and wonderful woman worked, you’ve just got to see her in action:
Here in autumn 2008, Chantelle was on the frontline of CAS’s Nothing To Declare (anti HIV travel ban) campaign. Never one to back down from a little dress-up role play, she gathered a mass of young volunteers in a series of public stunts to protest against the fact countries like South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Russia had HIV travel restrictions. Passersby got some air in the face and Chantelle’s chants of ‘Say no to the stigma surrounding HIV!’
Our 50 Million Women Missing campaign in spring 2009 was a mad day, namely because we waltzed around central London dressed as ghosts, inevitably getting eventually interrogated by the police – though it was all to raise awareness of the abused and lost women of India. Ever the calm and collected one, Chantelle, was on hand to lead by example and commentate on our day of direct action…
Read the rest of the tribute here
4/06/2010
Youth-Led Media Summit (Dec 09') Coverage!
The YLM Summit last December was a bit of a big deal in my carreer to date, being asked to represent Ctrl.Alt.Shift and be a voice for the millions of young people in the UK hustling to break into the machine that is the media...
With over 150 of my most talented and outspoken peers in the audience, speaking on a panel next to my media mentors and inspirations, my firm point was to affirm there needs to be more of a representation, and therefore a better, more balanced representation of the next generation - who will eventually be writing the tomorrow's headlines. Read here for the full review of the summit. Below is the video documentary (which a few cameo appearances by yours truly):
As part of the Youth-Led Media Network, I am now working with the young steering group (now known as the directors) to build this independant social entreprise - which will act as a hub for all youth-led media, offering channels to mentoring, funding, news, job opportunities and more. It's a long-term project, but we're all set to light a spark in the system. Follow www.youthledmedia.org.uk to get involved in the the project and see how it develops...
With over 150 of my most talented and outspoken peers in the audience, speaking on a panel next to my media mentors and inspirations, my firm point was to affirm there needs to be more of a representation, and therefore a better, more balanced representation of the next generation - who will eventually be writing the tomorrow's headlines. Read here for the full review of the summit. Below is the video documentary (which a few cameo appearances by yours truly):
As part of the Youth-Led Media Network, I am now working with the young steering group (now known as the directors) to build this independant social entreprise - which will act as a hub for all youth-led media, offering channels to mentoring, funding, news, job opportunities and more. It's a long-term project, but we're all set to light a spark in the system. Follow www.youthledmedia.org.uk to get involved in the the project and see how it develops...
FREE Ctrl.Alt.Shift Mag Issue 4 In Dazed&Confused NOW!
Get it get it get it! In your local WHSmith stores, skim past the thousands and get some real brain food down ya.
Seriously, two magazines for £3.95 is a bargain. Please recall issue 4 of the Ctrl.Alt.Shift mag took my team and I three gruelling months to bring our supporters over 80 pages of provocative, passionate, hilarious reports, spanning from Westwood and rapper Giggs talking corruption, to V V Brown and Riz MC Ahmed providing hard-hitting columns. That together with our Guantanamo Bay fashion photoshoot made it a good season's work...
No excuses now. If you couldn't find one before, just look for the D&C package...
3/29/2010
K'NAAN Interview - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
This definitely stands head and shoulders above 99% of the 'celeb' interviews I have done - most probably, for the somewhat bias reason that I respect K’NAAN the music, as well as K’NAAN the artist. The same cannot be said for some of the more ‘blah’ generic Q&A’s I have grinded through with self-loving, whatless stars... – call them entertaining, though hardly enlightening.
K’NAAN was not a disappointment. Blessed by the Bob Marley fam, haven risen from the Somali war (as a none the wiser teen), he now sings and talks with great passion, knowledge, tone of ‘peace be the journey’, set to rep the official South Africa FIFA World Cup 2010 with his show-me-your-lighters ‘Wavin Flag’ anthem – you need to look out for this boy (if only because his upcoming work with Nas and Damian Marley is going to be BIG!). Who is K’NAAN? Here’s my interview with the rapper for Ctrl.Alt.Shift:
Ctrl Meets K’NAAN
Walking into Islington’s Centrestage Studios with my tonsils aching and nose running from some nasty lingering flu (that just refused to die), I wasn’t too sure I was ready for this one...
Meeting someone as passionate and on point as Somali-Canadian rapper K’NAAN, I wanted to be on form – after all, I was about to go head to head with this world touring artist, set to release this summer’s official FIFA World Cup 2010 anthem (‘Wavin’ Flag’), set to launch his stunning album ‘Troubadour’ upon the UK, the I-do-not-take-no-bulls**t from the UN, blessed by the Bob Marley fam musician; all this from humble beginnings in Mogadishu, Somalia.
After a lengthy wait, Keinan Asbdi Warsame aka K’NAAN appeared from his dressing room to take a seat opposite my dictaphone. Blowing his own stuffy nose with a tissue, I found neutral ground, and the Q&A could begin… Here’s the rapper’s take on how he’s bringing his new sound to the world, the underlying truth behind Somali piracy, and how he plans on creating a whole new perspective for his people:
How you doing K’NAAN?
I’m good man, just a little tired, but I’m feeling great.
What you been up to this week?
Just doing some rehearsals, filming a new video, and I’ve been touring – from Italy, to Mexico, to the UK.
Fair to say you’re a bit jetlagged then…I think being jetlagged is my normal state now.
Tell me about your music? How would you describe your sound to those who might know nothing of K’NAAN?
Unique, a mixture of jazz and rap, with Somali influences – it’s just a different sound man.
Who are your musical influences?
Somali poets, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley.
I listen to your lyrics and follow your work. From spitting lines like “We fight their battles, then they deceive us, try to control us, they couldn't hold us, ‘cause we just move forward like Buffalo Soldiers…”, to the time you once criticised the UN for failed aid missions to Somalia, do you think it’s fair for observers to label you as a political and socially minded artist?
I actually don’t like labels. I write and say things that I think need to be said, and if others call it being ‘political’ and ‘socially minded’, so be it.
Do you think more artists should be using their positions to challenge the status quo of societies, battle corruption and better lives for their people?
I think artists should be honest… If the world is a perfect place and all they see is beauty, they should go ahead and just sing beautiful happy songs. I write about my experiences and what I see…
A lot of your songs have references to Somalia. I understand you and your mother fled from the country when you were just 14 because of the civil war… How much of that part of your life do you remember? Do you have any fond memories?
It was a hard time, for me and my family – and I still have a lot of relatives living there now. But I definitely have amazing memories, of Somalia always being a beautiful place with warm people, learning Somali spoken word poetry and being inspired by the story-telling.
You were born and bred in Somalia, and then spent much of the remainder of your life in Toronto, Canada. Do you consider yourself to be a music ambassador for Somalia, and even Canada?
I don’t ever ask or plan to be an ambassador, I guess those types of things just happen. But I’d say when I’m good, yeah I’m an ambassador of Somalia and Canada, whilst if I do something s**t, I’ll be an ambassador for myself (laughs).
I read somewhere you went back to Somalia last December… on your own! Were you not scared, especially being such a high profile Somali artist?I was scared, but it was something I felt I had to do – I haven’t been back since I was 14, and I needed to re-visit my roots. But all the people were so welcoming; yes I was recognised, and they treated like royalty, so it felt like I was under the protection of love. One thing I was gutted about was not being able to head into my birthplace Mogadishu, which is still trapped by the war, but I do plan on going back again in the future.
I spent five months living in Vancouver, and fell in love with the Canadian city… I’m planning to immigrate before I get too old. Where would you prefer to live, the UK, Canada, or Somalia?
My name in Somali means ‘traveller’ and that is what I am now. I enjoy moving around different places, and I think touring is what I’ll be doing for a while.
What are the biggest differences you see in the culture and way of life in Somalia and the Western world?
There are the obvious differences, but I think the two can learn a lot from each other. The West has learnt how to progress through materialism, whilst Somalis and others in Africa find strength through spiritualism… if we could find a balance, positive progress could happen across both worlds.
How do you feel Somali’s are viewed here? And how would you like to add or change to that perception?
I think there’s the view that we’re the neighbours that others don’t really understand yet; with the piracy issue on T.V. we can come across as quite ‘unreasonable’. From the way we dress to the way Somali’s sometimes like to keep to themselves, some host countries seem to think we don’t like to integrate into their culture. What I’d like to change about that is give people a water perspective on us, something more well-rounded; we have an intricate history and an even more complex recent history, and when people know about that, they’ll understand Somalis a lot more...
For the full Q&A, please click here
K’NAAN was not a disappointment. Blessed by the Bob Marley fam, haven risen from the Somali war (as a none the wiser teen), he now sings and talks with great passion, knowledge, tone of ‘peace be the journey’, set to rep the official South Africa FIFA World Cup 2010 with his show-me-your-lighters ‘Wavin Flag’ anthem – you need to look out for this boy (if only because his upcoming work with Nas and Damian Marley is going to be BIG!). Who is K’NAAN? Here’s my interview with the rapper for Ctrl.Alt.Shift:
Ctrl Meets K’NAAN
Walking into Islington’s Centrestage Studios with my tonsils aching and nose running from some nasty lingering flu (that just refused to die), I wasn’t too sure I was ready for this one...
Meeting someone as passionate and on point as Somali-Canadian rapper K’NAAN, I wanted to be on form – after all, I was about to go head to head with this world touring artist, set to release this summer’s official FIFA World Cup 2010 anthem (‘Wavin’ Flag’), set to launch his stunning album ‘Troubadour’ upon the UK, the I-do-not-take-no-bulls**t from the UN, blessed by the Bob Marley fam musician; all this from humble beginnings in Mogadishu, Somalia.
After a lengthy wait, Keinan Asbdi Warsame aka K’NAAN appeared from his dressing room to take a seat opposite my dictaphone. Blowing his own stuffy nose with a tissue, I found neutral ground, and the Q&A could begin… Here’s the rapper’s take on how he’s bringing his new sound to the world, the underlying truth behind Somali piracy, and how he plans on creating a whole new perspective for his people:
How you doing K’NAAN?
I’m good man, just a little tired, but I’m feeling great.
What you been up to this week?
Just doing some rehearsals, filming a new video, and I’ve been touring – from Italy, to Mexico, to the UK.
Fair to say you’re a bit jetlagged then…I think being jetlagged is my normal state now.
Tell me about your music? How would you describe your sound to those who might know nothing of K’NAAN?
Unique, a mixture of jazz and rap, with Somali influences – it’s just a different sound man.
Who are your musical influences?
Somali poets, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley.
I listen to your lyrics and follow your work. From spitting lines like “We fight their battles, then they deceive us, try to control us, they couldn't hold us, ‘cause we just move forward like Buffalo Soldiers…”, to the time you once criticised the UN for failed aid missions to Somalia, do you think it’s fair for observers to label you as a political and socially minded artist?
I actually don’t like labels. I write and say things that I think need to be said, and if others call it being ‘political’ and ‘socially minded’, so be it.
Do you think more artists should be using their positions to challenge the status quo of societies, battle corruption and better lives for their people?
I think artists should be honest… If the world is a perfect place and all they see is beauty, they should go ahead and just sing beautiful happy songs. I write about my experiences and what I see…
A lot of your songs have references to Somalia. I understand you and your mother fled from the country when you were just 14 because of the civil war… How much of that part of your life do you remember? Do you have any fond memories?
It was a hard time, for me and my family – and I still have a lot of relatives living there now. But I definitely have amazing memories, of Somalia always being a beautiful place with warm people, learning Somali spoken word poetry and being inspired by the story-telling.
You were born and bred in Somalia, and then spent much of the remainder of your life in Toronto, Canada. Do you consider yourself to be a music ambassador for Somalia, and even Canada?
I don’t ever ask or plan to be an ambassador, I guess those types of things just happen. But I’d say when I’m good, yeah I’m an ambassador of Somalia and Canada, whilst if I do something s**t, I’ll be an ambassador for myself (laughs).
I read somewhere you went back to Somalia last December… on your own! Were you not scared, especially being such a high profile Somali artist?I was scared, but it was something I felt I had to do – I haven’t been back since I was 14, and I needed to re-visit my roots. But all the people were so welcoming; yes I was recognised, and they treated like royalty, so it felt like I was under the protection of love. One thing I was gutted about was not being able to head into my birthplace Mogadishu, which is still trapped by the war, but I do plan on going back again in the future.
I spent five months living in Vancouver, and fell in love with the Canadian city… I’m planning to immigrate before I get too old. Where would you prefer to live, the UK, Canada, or Somalia?
My name in Somali means ‘traveller’ and that is what I am now. I enjoy moving around different places, and I think touring is what I’ll be doing for a while.
What are the biggest differences you see in the culture and way of life in Somalia and the Western world?
There are the obvious differences, but I think the two can learn a lot from each other. The West has learnt how to progress through materialism, whilst Somalis and others in Africa find strength through spiritualism… if we could find a balance, positive progress could happen across both worlds.
How do you feel Somali’s are viewed here? And how would you like to add or change to that perception?
I think there’s the view that we’re the neighbours that others don’t really understand yet; with the piracy issue on T.V. we can come across as quite ‘unreasonable’. From the way we dress to the way Somali’s sometimes like to keep to themselves, some host countries seem to think we don’t like to integrate into their culture. What I’d like to change about that is give people a water perspective on us, something more well-rounded; we have an intricate history and an even more complex recent history, and when people know about that, they’ll understand Somalis a lot more...
For the full Q&A, please click here
3/15/2010
Writings On The Wall Southbank Event Video Footage!
Here's a short video that reviews the United Underground 2 pre-event at the Southbank Centre on February 20. Organising the 'Writings On The Wall' spoken word poetry, music, art and activism showcase for Ctrl.Alt.Shift, British Underground and Riz MC Ahmed was another grand challenging period of my career so far (especially being a rogue journalist used to chasing down reports and sitting behind my laptop). But judging by the response and results, including this great film that features the performances of Sonti Ramirez, poet James Massiah, the Rhymes Won't Wait Collective and showstopper Ed Sheeran, displays a job well done... and something I just might consider taking on in this summer for the United Underground 3!
Enjoy:
Enjoy:
3/06/2010
The Youth-Led Media Network Event @ BFI (March 16)
When I was a Pot Noodle-eating, Snake Bite-drinking, insomniac undergraduate at the Uni of Central Lancs, among the many many life lessons and melodramas rushing to my head each semester, was the everlasting journalism problem of where to gain my journo medals of experience... hard and harsh lessons they were (and still are).
I constantly aimed for the big names, the mainstream media - aim high was my motto. But two factors always played a tragic part of that equation; being a student made it less than easy to break into the established news rooms, and once there, I was hardly trusted and thus left to the medial tasks of coffee runs, transcipting, orange-peeling and (quite naughtily) checking emails and watching weird s**t on YouTube to kill the hours.
Fast forward a couple of years and I'm tip-toeing in and out of the mainstream waters, from The Guardian to the BBC. Hard work, persistency, grasping onto any slice of opportunity, and a severe cut down in online faffing about does pay off... but I do wish there was a more accessible route to those (at times) illusive portfolio pages.
And so, queue the Youth-Led Media Network - something I'm currently working on (alongside Global Ethics UK and a bunch of inspirational young individuals) that may just change the standard procedure for millions of hustling aspiring headline-makers in the UK. Imagine a national online directory with links to every single youth focusing media organisation (anything from Live magazine to Ctrl.Alt.Shift) offering channels to jobs, internships, training and mentoring. It may not be the mainstream, but it would mean guaranteed valuable and invaluable experience and stepping stones.
At the moment, the Network is just a glorious hypothetical, but following the mass interest at the Youth-Led Media Summit last December (2009), and our collective hunt and hopes for funding and endorsements (which we will pitch for at the Youth-Led Media Network event at the BFI on March 16), such an idea may just come to fruition... watch this space. Here's all the details regarding the March 16 event in my preview for Ctrl.Alt.Shift:
Youth-Led Media Network Event @ BFI
The time has come, spring is here, and we're set to put those wintery inspirational talks and thoughts into action...
If you have any interest, query or general wonderment about getting involved in the manic world of the media, then you didn't want to miss out on last December's Youth-Led Media Summit. All set up by The Institute for Global Ethics UK Trust and a team of media freelancers (with members from Youthcomm Radio, Catch 22 youth initiative, Ceasefire magazine, Headliners news agency, Visualisemedia.com, the Leap Anywhere project, Muslim Youth Helpline and Ctrl.Alt.Shift), the conference, consisting of talks, workshops and panel discussions, was a chance for young media enthusiasts - “the next media generation” as Dazed and Confused editor Rod Stanley called them - to come together to discuss how young people could play their part in the industry and engage with youth stereotypes in the media.
It was a hectic day of ifs, buts, whys, and how's. Natty provided some musical relief; to balance out the table-tennis paced debate that erupted from the main panel session - something I felt privileged to be asked to sit on and represent my peoples. I locked horns with the media's big players; including Rod Stanley, Sir Al Aynsley Green (Children's Commissioner for England, 11 Million), Matt Locke (Channel 4's Commissioning Editor for Education), Bob Satchwell (Society of Editors' Executive Director) and Rajini Vaidyanathan (BBC news reporter)...
Here's the full review of the summit.
Despite the fact we may have had conflicting opinions of how the future of youth-led media should work and what it would look like, there was one general consensus; the youth media are strong, and combined forces could lead to an endless realm of prospects, possibilities and opportunities. That was clearly evident from the summit, with the bustling audience consisting of over 150 representatives from various youth-led media organisations (with a combined readership of over two million).
And so came about the proposal and concept of the Youth-Led Media Network... 'What's that?' I hear you say.
Think of it as a grand directory for ALL youth-led media organisations, providing links to mentoring, internships, jobs, youth media news, and loads more. The summit was a chance to brainstorm the idea, gather support, interest, opinions etc. Three months later, and Global Ethics UK alongside the steering group for the Network, will be celebrating the outcomes of the winter summit, showcasing what the Network has the potential to be, discussing funding, and reviewing the next steps... hopefully with you on board! With hopes of becoming an independent youth-led social enterprise, endorsements, collaborations and funding funding funding will be key topics of discussion...
This event will take place on March 16 at Southbank Centre's BFI in London. Although it is by invitation only, all media enthusiasts are welcome. Just RSVP asap as spaces are limted - all details are here.
Ever found it hard, and de-motivating in the grinding quest to break into the media...? Come down and ensure that the power of the press lays in your hands.
For more information about the Network and the upcoming event, please visit www.youthledmedia.org.uk
Note: At the event, there will also be the first screening of the Youth-Led Media Summit 2009 film, created by Beacon School and Red bag Pictures.
I constantly aimed for the big names, the mainstream media - aim high was my motto. But two factors always played a tragic part of that equation; being a student made it less than easy to break into the established news rooms, and once there, I was hardly trusted and thus left to the medial tasks of coffee runs, transcipting, orange-peeling and (quite naughtily) checking emails and watching weird s**t on YouTube to kill the hours.
Fast forward a couple of years and I'm tip-toeing in and out of the mainstream waters, from The Guardian to the BBC. Hard work, persistency, grasping onto any slice of opportunity, and a severe cut down in online faffing about does pay off... but I do wish there was a more accessible route to those (at times) illusive portfolio pages.
And so, queue the Youth-Led Media Network - something I'm currently working on (alongside Global Ethics UK and a bunch of inspirational young individuals) that may just change the standard procedure for millions of hustling aspiring headline-makers in the UK. Imagine a national online directory with links to every single youth focusing media organisation (anything from Live magazine to Ctrl.Alt.Shift) offering channels to jobs, internships, training and mentoring. It may not be the mainstream, but it would mean guaranteed valuable and invaluable experience and stepping stones.
At the moment, the Network is just a glorious hypothetical, but following the mass interest at the Youth-Led Media Summit last December (2009), and our collective hunt and hopes for funding and endorsements (which we will pitch for at the Youth-Led Media Network event at the BFI on March 16), such an idea may just come to fruition... watch this space. Here's all the details regarding the March 16 event in my preview for Ctrl.Alt.Shift:
Youth-Led Media Network Event @ BFI
The time has come, spring is here, and we're set to put those wintery inspirational talks and thoughts into action...
If you have any interest, query or general wonderment about getting involved in the manic world of the media, then you didn't want to miss out on last December's Youth-Led Media Summit. All set up by The Institute for Global Ethics UK Trust and a team of media freelancers (with members from Youthcomm Radio, Catch 22 youth initiative, Ceasefire magazine, Headliners news agency, Visualisemedia.com, the Leap Anywhere project, Muslim Youth Helpline and Ctrl.Alt.Shift), the conference, consisting of talks, workshops and panel discussions, was a chance for young media enthusiasts - “the next media generation” as Dazed and Confused editor Rod Stanley called them - to come together to discuss how young people could play their part in the industry and engage with youth stereotypes in the media.
It was a hectic day of ifs, buts, whys, and how's. Natty provided some musical relief; to balance out the table-tennis paced debate that erupted from the main panel session - something I felt privileged to be asked to sit on and represent my peoples. I locked horns with the media's big players; including Rod Stanley, Sir Al Aynsley Green (Children's Commissioner for England, 11 Million), Matt Locke (Channel 4's Commissioning Editor for Education), Bob Satchwell (Society of Editors' Executive Director) and Rajini Vaidyanathan (BBC news reporter)...
Here's the full review of the summit.
Despite the fact we may have had conflicting opinions of how the future of youth-led media should work and what it would look like, there was one general consensus; the youth media are strong, and combined forces could lead to an endless realm of prospects, possibilities and opportunities. That was clearly evident from the summit, with the bustling audience consisting of over 150 representatives from various youth-led media organisations (with a combined readership of over two million).
And so came about the proposal and concept of the Youth-Led Media Network... 'What's that?' I hear you say.
Think of it as a grand directory for ALL youth-led media organisations, providing links to mentoring, internships, jobs, youth media news, and loads more. The summit was a chance to brainstorm the idea, gather support, interest, opinions etc. Three months later, and Global Ethics UK alongside the steering group for the Network, will be celebrating the outcomes of the winter summit, showcasing what the Network has the potential to be, discussing funding, and reviewing the next steps... hopefully with you on board! With hopes of becoming an independent youth-led social enterprise, endorsements, collaborations and funding funding funding will be key topics of discussion...
This event will take place on March 16 at Southbank Centre's BFI in London. Although it is by invitation only, all media enthusiasts are welcome. Just RSVP asap as spaces are limted - all details are here.
Ever found it hard, and de-motivating in the grinding quest to break into the media...? Come down and ensure that the power of the press lays in your hands.
For more information about the Network and the upcoming event, please visit www.youthledmedia.org.uk
Note: At the event, there will also be the first screening of the Youth-Led Media Summit 2009 film, created by Beacon School and Red bag Pictures.
2/19/2010
United Underground 2 Main Event! - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
This is going to be crazy! I've already blagged all about this in my last blog post, but just for good measure, here's all the details below in my Ctrl.Alt.Shift preview for the United Underground 2 evening festival. Based on last year's turnout, I can promise all (money-back guarantee) a night to remember.
Last year was hectic - this year will be even better (yes, I sounds like a cliche salesman, but it's called for... this time).
Leave the hangover procedure for tomorrow night. Come to party - leave the cleaning bill with Southbank:
United Underground 2!
After last summer's sell-out show, Riz MC Ahmed, British Underground and Ctrl.Alt.Shift host the second United Underground; a music, art and activism party across the foyers of Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall. Bringing together an explosive mix of cutting-edge sounds, street culture and film, the night (with a CONFLICT theme) will introduce exceptional new club and alternative artists and explore the potential of music as a catalyst for change.
Details for the United Underground evening showcase:
When: February 20
Time: 5pm - 11pm
Location: Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, SE1 8XX
Price: £6
Don't miss out on all this! -
Music in the Purcell Room:
Trembling Bells, Olivia Chaney, Laura Moody, Broadcast 2000, Twee As Fuck, The Bobby McGee's, The Half Sisters, Attaca Pesante + guests.
Music in the front room of the Queen Elizabeth Hall:
Wiley presents Eskimo Dance, JME, DJ Target, Speakers Corner, Marvell, P Money, Chock-A-Block feat. Nolay, Envy, FX + Spooky, Hit + Run, Nightslugs feat. Bok Bok + Manara, Urban Nerds fest. Illaman, Rattus Rattus + Klose One.
Film Room:
Feat. the five winning Ctrl.Alt.Shift short films.
Realtime activism:
Get a FREE poster from the Print Club London workshop, add your face to our digital projection, or get creating with the Craftivist Collective.
Talks:
Speakers will include former mayor of London Ken Livingston, Peter Tatchell, Ben White, Andrew Hogg, PEN, Traid and Guerilla Gardening.
It's a bargain bucket of entertainment for just £6!
Book tickets here and save some dosh.
Last year was hectic - this year will be even better (yes, I sounds like a cliche salesman, but it's called for... this time).
Leave the hangover procedure for tomorrow night. Come to party - leave the cleaning bill with Southbank:
United Underground 2!
After last summer's sell-out show, Riz MC Ahmed, British Underground and Ctrl.Alt.Shift host the second United Underground; a music, art and activism party across the foyers of Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall. Bringing together an explosive mix of cutting-edge sounds, street culture and film, the night (with a CONFLICT theme) will introduce exceptional new club and alternative artists and explore the potential of music as a catalyst for change.
Details for the United Underground evening showcase:
When: February 20
Time: 5pm - 11pm
Location: Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, SE1 8XX
Price: £6
Don't miss out on all this! -
Music in the Purcell Room:
Trembling Bells, Olivia Chaney, Laura Moody, Broadcast 2000, Twee As Fuck, The Bobby McGee's, The Half Sisters, Attaca Pesante + guests.
Music in the front room of the Queen Elizabeth Hall:
Wiley presents Eskimo Dance, JME, DJ Target, Speakers Corner, Marvell, P Money, Chock-A-Block feat. Nolay, Envy, FX + Spooky, Hit + Run, Nightslugs feat. Bok Bok + Manara, Urban Nerds fest. Illaman, Rattus Rattus + Klose One.
Film Room:
Feat. the five winning Ctrl.Alt.Shift short films.
Realtime activism:
Get a FREE poster from the Print Club London workshop, add your face to our digital projection, or get creating with the Craftivist Collective.
Talks:
Speakers will include former mayor of London Ken Livingston, Peter Tatchell, Ben White, Andrew Hogg, PEN, Traid and Guerilla Gardening.
It's a bargain bucket of entertainment for just £6!
Book tickets here and save some dosh.
2/17/2010
Writings On The Wall: United Underground 2 Pre-Event! - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
When the Southbank Centre reps knocked on Ctrl.Alt.Shift's door, asking me and my team for a second dose of art, music and activism (after the sell-out success of our United Underground showcase in July 2009) - two main feelings ran through my mind; initially 'Oh no... here we go again' swiftly followed by 'Bring it on!'.
To brief you in, United Underground last summer was a whole day, midday to midnight, of live DJ sets, bands, acoustic acts, art (graffiti and crafts), speaker Q&A sessions... and a lot more I can't quite remember right now - but all in all, a manic day capped off with a Thames-shaking rave. The venue: The Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, London. The organisers: Ctrl.Alt.Shift, British Underground and Riz MC Ahmed. The turnout: Over 700 jumping, partying hard heads. The aftermath: United Underground 2 please...
Like last time, I have been left with the honourable duty of setting up the pre-event (the FREE showcase from midday to 4pm, warming up the crowd for the United Underground 2 evening festival at 5pm).
A few minor changes to the pre-show this time - I've got partner in crime, colleague James Prosho covering my tracks (two heads better than one and all), it'll take place INSIDE the QEH as oppose to outside the front doors (I don't need to me crapping myself in fear and anticipation of the almost inevitable London piss-down rain), the graffiti has been substituted for a screen-printing workshop (with a guaranteed FREE poster from the Print Club London lads!), and, we've basically got loads more spoken word and acoustic acts on the bill - so queue the 10 minute MAX sets and 1 minute change-overs.
DON'T MISS OUT - BE THERE TOMORROW! (Saturday Feb 20). For the full line-up and details, check out my preview of the pre-show on the Ctrl.Alt.Shift website below:
Writings On The Wall: United Underground 2 Pre-Event!
Our United Underground Southbank showcase is back! Get ready for another day of art, music and activism; a stunning package brought to you by Ctrl.Alt.Shift, British Underground and Riz MC Ahmed - on February 20 at Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall...
As a warm up to the UU2 evening event (which will kick off at 5pm, featuring the likes of Trembling Bells, Speakers Corner, JME and many more), the QEH audience will be treated and welcomed to get their hands dirty with a live CONFLICT-themed screen printing workshop/showcase - lead by Print Club London (www.printclublondon.com).
Full details for the United Underground pre-event:
Date: 20 February
Time: midday - 3:30pm
Location: Queen Elizabeth Hall @ Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road London SE1 8XX
What: Ctrl.Alt.Shift, Riz MC and British Underground brings together the best of British spoken word and acoustic talent
Price: Free!
PCL, who have composed amazing prints for anyone from The Times newspaper to Dazed Digital, will be creating four large CONFLICT-themed posters throughout the day, whilst offering templates for the public to come down, create, and take away their own prints for FREE! If you're out and about on this Saturday, you can't miss out as Print Club promises "to revive screenprinting by providing a laid back yet productive affordable environment, enabling designers and illustrators to go from laptop to inky hands."
In addition, Ctrl.Alt.Shift will simultaneously be hosting a hectic showcase of unsigned music acts and spoken word poetry by some of the UK’s most exciting prospects. This FREE pre-event will include an array of talent from Indie artists Pete McAllen and The Samantha Durnan to Southbank spoken word favourites James Massiah and Inua Ellams.
Confirmed Acts:
The Samantha Durnan Band
www.myspace.com/samanthadurnanmusic
Ed Sheeran acoustic set
www.myspace.com/edsheeran
Sonti
Soul singer
www.myspace.com/sontisonti
Rhymes Won’t Wait Collective reps including:
Camila Fiori, Dean Atta, Sabrina Mahfouz, Chimene Suleyman, Rumi Begum, Catherine Brogan, Eka, Haseeb Malik, Deanna Roger, Karis Halsall
www.timewontwait.com
G.R.E.E.D.S
Spoken word artist
www.iamgreeds.com
Inua Ellams + Poejazzi
Spoken word artist
www.phaze05.com
www.myspace.com/poejazzi
Juliyaa
Acoustic with soul
www.myspace.co.uk/juliyaa
Lauren Hogg
Acoustic set
www.myspace.com/laurenhogg
James Massiah
Spoken word artist
www.jamesmassiah.com
Pete McAllen
Indie artist acoustic set
www.petemcallen.com
DJ Mikey Gill
www.myspace.com/mikefisher
AND! A live screen printing workshop/showcase lead by Print Club London
www.printclublondon.com
Come down, get your hands dirty, and groove to some live beats.
To brief you in, United Underground last summer was a whole day, midday to midnight, of live DJ sets, bands, acoustic acts, art (graffiti and crafts), speaker Q&A sessions... and a lot more I can't quite remember right now - but all in all, a manic day capped off with a Thames-shaking rave. The venue: The Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, London. The organisers: Ctrl.Alt.Shift, British Underground and Riz MC Ahmed. The turnout: Over 700 jumping, partying hard heads. The aftermath: United Underground 2 please...
Like last time, I have been left with the honourable duty of setting up the pre-event (the FREE showcase from midday to 4pm, warming up the crowd for the United Underground 2 evening festival at 5pm).
A few minor changes to the pre-show this time - I've got partner in crime, colleague James Prosho covering my tracks (two heads better than one and all), it'll take place INSIDE the QEH as oppose to outside the front doors (I don't need to me crapping myself in fear and anticipation of the almost inevitable London piss-down rain), the graffiti has been substituted for a screen-printing workshop (with a guaranteed FREE poster from the Print Club London lads!), and, we've basically got loads more spoken word and acoustic acts on the bill - so queue the 10 minute MAX sets and 1 minute change-overs.
DON'T MISS OUT - BE THERE TOMORROW! (Saturday Feb 20). For the full line-up and details, check out my preview of the pre-show on the Ctrl.Alt.Shift website below:
Writings On The Wall: United Underground 2 Pre-Event!
Our United Underground Southbank showcase is back! Get ready for another day of art, music and activism; a stunning package brought to you by Ctrl.Alt.Shift, British Underground and Riz MC Ahmed - on February 20 at Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall...
As a warm up to the UU2 evening event (which will kick off at 5pm, featuring the likes of Trembling Bells, Speakers Corner, JME and many more), the QEH audience will be treated and welcomed to get their hands dirty with a live CONFLICT-themed screen printing workshop/showcase - lead by Print Club London (www.printclublondon.com).
Full details for the United Underground pre-event:
Date: 20 February
Time: midday - 3:30pm
Location: Queen Elizabeth Hall @ Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road London SE1 8XX
What: Ctrl.Alt.Shift, Riz MC and British Underground brings together the best of British spoken word and acoustic talent
Price: Free!
PCL, who have composed amazing prints for anyone from The Times newspaper to Dazed Digital, will be creating four large CONFLICT-themed posters throughout the day, whilst offering templates for the public to come down, create, and take away their own prints for FREE! If you're out and about on this Saturday, you can't miss out as Print Club promises "to revive screenprinting by providing a laid back yet productive affordable environment, enabling designers and illustrators to go from laptop to inky hands."
In addition, Ctrl.Alt.Shift will simultaneously be hosting a hectic showcase of unsigned music acts and spoken word poetry by some of the UK’s most exciting prospects. This FREE pre-event will include an array of talent from Indie artists Pete McAllen and The Samantha Durnan to Southbank spoken word favourites James Massiah and Inua Ellams.
Confirmed Acts:
The Samantha Durnan Band
www.myspace.com/samanthadurnanmusic
Ed Sheeran acoustic set
www.myspace.com/edsheeran
Sonti
Soul singer
www.myspace.com/sontisonti
Rhymes Won’t Wait Collective reps including:
Camila Fiori, Dean Atta, Sabrina Mahfouz, Chimene Suleyman, Rumi Begum, Catherine Brogan, Eka, Haseeb Malik, Deanna Roger, Karis Halsall
www.timewontwait.com
G.R.E.E.D.S
Spoken word artist
www.iamgreeds.com
Inua Ellams + Poejazzi
Spoken word artist
www.phaze05.com
www.myspace.com/poejazzi
Juliyaa
Acoustic with soul
www.myspace.co.uk/juliyaa
Lauren Hogg
Acoustic set
www.myspace.com/laurenhogg
James Massiah
Spoken word artist
www.jamesmassiah.com
Pete McAllen
Indie artist acoustic set
www.petemcallen.com
DJ Mikey Gill
www.myspace.com/mikefisher
AND! A live screen printing workshop/showcase lead by Print Club London
www.printclublondon.com
Come down, get your hands dirty, and groove to some live beats.
2/10/2010
Ctrl.Alt.Shift Rave 4 Haiti! @ Pure Nightclub - High Wycombe
The ball needs to keep rolling when it comes to rehabilitating Haiti... The last Ctrl.Alt.Shift club night/Haiti fundraiser (at London's glorious Den Club) left me utterly shattered, too sober for my liking, with nothing but a salmon and cheese bagel to comfort my sorry state as I made my way home at 7am (after a 10-hour shift collecting petit change with my bucket). Heavy night will be the understatement for 2010...
Am I complaining? Not in the slightest. I helped the team to raise over £10,000 on that epic January 20 night, with thousands more rolling in via Ctrl.Alt.Shift's online charity auction (get your wallet out people for JLS memorabilia, and a Chanel bag to just die for!). Yet, I recognise these are all pieces of a f**ked up puzzle that will take more than a couple of loaded powers that be to repair. I will actually state, I don't know what the real Haiti earthquake aftermath statistics are, from death toll to damages - with so many numbers flying about, who knows what sensationalist media source to trust...? But it's obvious, like with Hurricane Katrina, like with the Tsunami of 2004 - the crushing impact of the Haiti quakes await no final chapter, no happy ending. Things will indeed never be the same for the nation, but have no doubt we can dictate how the rest of the story will pan out...
Queue the next Haiti rave/club night marathon in High Wycombe!
We're inviting one and all to a hectic rave for a necessary cause.
All details are above, and below in my preview for the Ctrl.Alt.Shift website:
Ctrl.Alt.Shift Rave 4 Haiti! @ Pure Nightclub - High Wycombe
The last one was so hectic, the cause is still as relevant and important as ever - so there really was only one option; do it again, party harder, and RAISE MORE MONEY!
At the start of 2010, Haiti was devastated by two crushing earthquakes; and the country is still struggling to find reformation beyond the rubble and mass graves. In response, Ctrl.Alt.Shift held a Haiti rave at the Den Club in London’s Holborn on January 20, featuring the likes of Tinie Tempah, Boy Better Know, The Thirst (and many MANY more), raising an astounding £10,000 + for from the night of mayhem for the good cause.
On the back of that, never one to stop the momentum - we’ve teamed up with Donaeo to put on yet another rave for Haiti, this Friday, February 12…
Location: Pure Nightclub, Octagon Parade, High Wycombe, HP11 2HU
Time: 10pm-3am
Price: £5 MINIMUM (don’t be stingy!) donation on the door
Line-up: Donaeo, Wiley, Bashy, Princess Nyah, Marvell, plus DJs Steve Sutherland, Target and Pioneer.
More info: 07825551913
High Wycombe will never be the same again.
Don’t miss out on the party, and play your part in the Haiti recovery.
Note: If you can’t make it down on Friday, it’s never too late to contribute, as Ctrl.Alt.Shift is still offering you a little (or big) something back for your wonderful generosity in our online auction! Click on the link, and bid away on anything from a Christian Dior bag to a life-size Kung Fu Panda model.
All proceeds goes to Haiti!
Am I complaining? Not in the slightest. I helped the team to raise over £10,000 on that epic January 20 night, with thousands more rolling in via Ctrl.Alt.Shift's online charity auction (get your wallet out people for JLS memorabilia, and a Chanel bag to just die for!). Yet, I recognise these are all pieces of a f**ked up puzzle that will take more than a couple of loaded powers that be to repair. I will actually state, I don't know what the real Haiti earthquake aftermath statistics are, from death toll to damages - with so many numbers flying about, who knows what sensationalist media source to trust...? But it's obvious, like with Hurricane Katrina, like with the Tsunami of 2004 - the crushing impact of the Haiti quakes await no final chapter, no happy ending. Things will indeed never be the same for the nation, but have no doubt we can dictate how the rest of the story will pan out...
Queue the next Haiti rave/club night marathon in High Wycombe!
We're inviting one and all to a hectic rave for a necessary cause.
All details are above, and below in my preview for the Ctrl.Alt.Shift website:
Ctrl.Alt.Shift Rave 4 Haiti! @ Pure Nightclub - High Wycombe
The last one was so hectic, the cause is still as relevant and important as ever - so there really was only one option; do it again, party harder, and RAISE MORE MONEY!
At the start of 2010, Haiti was devastated by two crushing earthquakes; and the country is still struggling to find reformation beyond the rubble and mass graves. In response, Ctrl.Alt.Shift held a Haiti rave at the Den Club in London’s Holborn on January 20, featuring the likes of Tinie Tempah, Boy Better Know, The Thirst (and many MANY more), raising an astounding £10,000 + for from the night of mayhem for the good cause.
On the back of that, never one to stop the momentum - we’ve teamed up with Donaeo to put on yet another rave for Haiti, this Friday, February 12…
Location: Pure Nightclub, Octagon Parade, High Wycombe, HP11 2HU
Time: 10pm-3am
Price: £5 MINIMUM (don’t be stingy!) donation on the door
Line-up: Donaeo, Wiley, Bashy, Princess Nyah, Marvell, plus DJs Steve Sutherland, Target and Pioneer.
More info: 07825551913
High Wycombe will never be the same again.
Don’t miss out on the party, and play your part in the Haiti recovery.
Note: If you can’t make it down on Friday, it’s never too late to contribute, as Ctrl.Alt.Shift is still offering you a little (or big) something back for your wonderful generosity in our online auction! Click on the link, and bid away on anything from a Christian Dior bag to a life-size Kung Fu Panda model.
All proceeds goes to Haiti!
2/04/2010
Ctrl.Alt.Shift Haiti Rave Footage!
Some mad coverage of Ctrl.Alt.Shift 's Haiti fundraiser/rave at The Den in Holborn, London. We raised over £10,000! on the night, a minimum figure, with an online auction still taking place - all proceeds going straight to the country recently devastated by crushing earthquakes.
A great night for a good cause - watch the footage, and you might catch me repping the red t-shirt and bopping through the dancefloor with my bucket!
Big up SBTV for this one!
A great night for a good cause - watch the footage, and you might catch me repping the red t-shirt and bopping through the dancefloor with my bucket!
Big up SBTV for this one!
1/25/2010
'Shank' Private Screening Feat. Bashy & Adam Deacon - Ctrl.Alt.Shift
I haven't done a movie review in aaages. And that's probably a good thing, considering the majority of flicks I (depressingly) paid for in 2009 left me moaning, yawning, and concentrating on the nachos and popcorn to keep me entertained. I didn't even really get the hype of Avatar, which left me mesmerised by the animation, but wondering why ‘Pocahontas In Space’ cost so much damn money to produce, and why FernGully: The Last Rainforest isn’t down as one of the best cartoons EVER! (same message as Avatar, slightly different budget).
Nevertheless, ‘Shank’ was a rather different film experience altogether. For starters, it was nice to see an old interviewee of mine, UK rap artist Bashy, making moves on the big screen. The Hospital venue in Covent Garden was plush, with the bean-bag chairs to savour. And the film itself... kinda threw me. Throughout it, I had to laugh at some of the unconvincing acting, and unfinished sub-plots - but then my runaway scepticism was given a reality kick up the backside by my friend/colleague Sian Ce-Ce Anderson, who reminded me this was no blockbuster intended for the big red carpet; débuting Bashy, Deacon and co. were in form for a Kidulthood to Adulthood type audience.
And no doubt, on that basis, this actually wasn’t that bad at all. Call it an easy watch, as Shank is Lock Stock And Two Smoking Barrels meets the ghetto streets of London town in the year 2015. Make up your own minds when it is released in a cinema near you on March 26, 2009. And he’s a gentle reminder to my fellow journalists – if you’re going to review anything, never overlook how invaluable a simple chit-chat debate with a mate over a pint can be (thanks for the alternate perspective and the Stella Ce-Ce). Here’s the Ctrl.Alt.Shift review:
Ctrl.Alt.Shift @ Shank Screening
Last summer, rapper Ashley 'Bashy' Thomas headlined the United Underground art and music showcase on London's Southbank (set up by Ctrl.Alt.Shift, Riz MC Ahmed and British Underground). Since then, the man has continued to hustle, and the result will be blasted onto the UK's big screens on March 26, as Bashy kickstarts his acting career with 'Shank'. Last week I was invited to the swanky Hospital Club in Covent Garden to slouch onto a bean-bag chair and catch the private preview screening of the flick dubbed "an action movie for the next generation."
There was certainly no time to yawn. The film was littered with hectic chase and fight scenes, as we follow the story of 14 year old Junior (Kedar Williams-Stirling) and older brother Rager (Bashy) as they try and survive London's ganglands at a mad time in 2015; a period where the barrier between the rich and poor is immense, and food aka 'munchies' are replaced by drugs and guns as priceless commodities.
But Junior and Rager are not alone in their quest for munchies, joined by their own, relatively docile, violent-dodging gang The Paper Chaserz - consisting of Sweet Boy (Jan Uddin), Craze (Michael Socha) and Kickz (Adam Deacon of Adulthood and Kidulthood). However, there's a dark twist flung upon the story, as a conflict with a rival gang (the Tugz) leads to the 'shanking' and death of one of the Paper Chaserz... What follows is a crazy obstacle-ridden journey (including a cameo by Channel 4 'Skins' beaute Kaya Scodelario) for the group who trek across the city streets in search of justice, and revenge...
Read the full article here
1/22/2010
What Is 'Resistance'? By Artist Tom Pritchard
As I'm using my blog as an archive/catalogue of my personal journalism escapades, I don't usually use it to promote other work - but this is a grand and lethal exception that deserves a breaking of the rules.
My close friend, artist Tom Pritchard, was asked as part of a uni project - to illustrate a set of posters that captured the spirit of 'resistance' politically and socially for Don't Panic. The awesome results are shown above. The word 'resistance' is layered behind the injustice addressed in each poster.
To gain some inspiration, he interviewed me about my experiences resisting racial abuse from the clutches of the British National Party (following a stunt I took part in last year to try and infiltrate a BNP meeting on behalf of Don't Panic and Ctrl.Alt.Shift). The Q&A which took part in the house where Tom and I used to (and still do) crack open a few beers, have a cheeky smoke (being the underage kool kids and all) and waffle on about nothing for ages - was definitely a laugh, but conjured tangent after inspirational tangent about how we view 'resistance', how important it is when facing injustice, and why if you want positive change, you must do everyone you can, without fear of standing out - because if you see no problems in the world and remain unwilling to challenge, then you are unable to fully comprehend, create, and be part of a solution.
Putting an end to THIS glorious waffle, I particularly love the image by Tom below - and it currently stands as my profile pic on my Facebook:
Can you tell why? The photo below was taken of me last year during a Ctrl.Alt.Shift women's rights in India campaign. It's one of my favourite pics of me doing what I do best for the youth initiative - being weird, provocative, whilst subtly trying to change the world...
My close friend, artist Tom Pritchard, was asked as part of a uni project - to illustrate a set of posters that captured the spirit of 'resistance' politically and socially for Don't Panic. The awesome results are shown above. The word 'resistance' is layered behind the injustice addressed in each poster.
To gain some inspiration, he interviewed me about my experiences resisting racial abuse from the clutches of the British National Party (following a stunt I took part in last year to try and infiltrate a BNP meeting on behalf of Don't Panic and Ctrl.Alt.Shift). The Q&A which took part in the house where Tom and I used to (and still do) crack open a few beers, have a cheeky smoke (being the underage kool kids and all) and waffle on about nothing for ages - was definitely a laugh, but conjured tangent after inspirational tangent about how we view 'resistance', how important it is when facing injustice, and why if you want positive change, you must do everyone you can, without fear of standing out - because if you see no problems in the world and remain unwilling to challenge, then you are unable to fully comprehend, create, and be part of a solution.
Putting an end to THIS glorious waffle, I particularly love the image by Tom below - and it currently stands as my profile pic on my Facebook:
Can you tell why? The photo below was taken of me last year during a Ctrl.Alt.Shift women's rights in India campaign. It's one of my favourite pics of me doing what I do best for the youth initiative - being weird, provocative, whilst subtly trying to change the world...
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