Contrast Issue Three - Young Hackney

OCTOBER 2007ISSUE 3A Hackney youth publication

Make your own news!Contrast is a FREE magazine written by and for young people in Hackney.If you’re aged 13 to 19 and you’re interested in writing, editing, design or illustration, come and join our editorial team.If you’re a young person in Hackney with something to say, we want to hear from you.Joining the Contrast team gives you the opportunity to see your name in print and get some accredited media training. We have aweekly editorial team meetings at Sky Partnership and Stoke Newington Library, and regular workshops at other venues in Hackney.Sky PartnershipWhitmore RDe Beauvoir CrescentHertford RdKingsland RoadActon MewsDunston StLee StStean StClarissa StSky PartnershipDay: TuesdayTime: 4.30pm – 6.30pmVenue: Unit 2, 222 Kingsland Road,London, E2 8AXPhillipp StOrsman RdMill RowPhillipp StA10Dunston RdStoke Newington LibraryDay: ThursdayTime: 4.30pm – 6.30pmVenue: Stoke Newington Church Street,London, N16 0JSJeger AveHoxton StIvy StWilmer GardensNuttall StKingsland RoadLaburnum StWhiston RdHow’s StIf you would like us to run a workshop session in your School/Youth Club/Organisation please get in touch.For more information and directions to venues call Vicky on 020 7359 7825 or email contrast@socialspider.comCredit where credit’s dueContrast is published by Social Spider. Social Spider is a Community Interest Company registered in England no. 4846529The views expressed in Contrast do not necessarily reflect those of Social Spider or Hackney Council © 2007 Social Spider Community InterestCompany ISSN 1754-0623This magazine is printed on recycled paper.Advertising: If your organisation is interested in advertising in Contrast, call Stephen on 020 7354 9129. email: contrast@socialspider.comDownload our media pack from www.socialspider.com/contrastmediapack for information on rates and specificationsPrinters: MRT Studio Ltd, 615 Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, E10 6AJ Tel: 020 8520 5588Contrast Editorial team: Selin Kavlak, Bana Mhaldien, Cheryl O’Garro, Rosheena Harding, Steve Liburd, Karess Laidley, Merve Yilmaz, Lara Akinnawo,Bisi Fashesin, Zaneta Denny, Jasmine O’Garro, Jamie O’Garro, Leanne Bourke, Rico Montaque, Emanual Sactey, Apo Gul, Sarah Jones, Lindsey Jones,Zulf Nalubega, Nana Rogues, Danika Thomas, Eric Ochieng, Veronica Charlery, Siobhan Moore, Ruth Dube, Stephanie Ugbomah, Darren Moore, KristineDode, Duygu Yildiz, Aygul Ozdemir and Silan Fidan.Contrast Staff team: Aysha Tegally, David Floyd, Mark Brown, Mustafa Kurtuldu, Stephen Gardiner, Vicky Hughes, Jo WorsleyThe Contrast team would like to thank: Hackney Youth Parliament, Dara De Burca, Nathan Cato, Leroy Logan, Halil Gam @ Halk Evi, CouncillorFeryat Demirci, Sheema Meah, Sky Partnership and CityZEN.Appleby SContrast is funded by the Hackney Youth Opportunity Fund, which is managed by young people inHackney Youth Service.Contrast is supported by: Sky Partnership, CityZen, Hackney Youth Parliament & Exposure Organisation Limited.Weymouth TerSocialSpider

Issue Three - EditorialHiya!Wow! Third edition already! Time does fly. This issue wehave interviews with some of Hackney's up and comingpoets, the rising stars of Hackney and even a fewcelebrities. Plus there are film reviews and lots more. Bythe way, if you know anyone who is interested in writingfor Contrast please contact contrast@socialspider.com.The Contrast team is the eyes and ears for youngHackney and we want to make sure we want as manypeople as possible to contribute.Anyway, chill out until next time. XThe Contrast editorial teamWhat’s OnYoung Film makersIf you want to learn about filmmakingincluding: camera work,editing, acting, scripting andanimation and are aged between11 – 19 and living in Hackney -Hackney Media Academy arerunning Film workshops. Freeevery Saturday from 11am at MTR Studio 23, Mouththat Roars, at 3 Charlotte Road. London. EC2A 3PB. Ifyou are interested contactmouththatroars@btconnect.com or 020 7729 2323Fighting fitKickboxing classes are being held on Mondays andThursdays between 4-6pm and Saturdays 12-2pm atThe Bay Health Club, 183 Stoke Newington High St.N16. Free introduction and info call 020 7254 7056 orvisit www.zendokickboxing.com/CapoeiraClasses are held on Saturdays between 4-5pm for youngpeople aged 8-16. Capoeira combines dance, acrobaticsand movement with music, at SPACe Centre, Falkirk StN1. For info call 07779 031273 or visitwww.projectgem.org/Sky PartnershipSports and Fitness Coaching (girls ages 16 – 25)We will be paying for you to train in Football Level 1coaching. After you are qualified, we will support you torun real training sessions for young people.The Parenting Programme(young fathers aged up to 25)Offers information and advice for fathers that set outtheir rights and contain information on where they canget support.You can also join the Digital Pioneer programme andexpress yourself through music, media and creativewriting….and a whole lot more.Train the Trainer project(young fathers up to 25 yrs)This new project that trains young dads to work withprofessionals to have a better understanding of how toengage fathers in their work. Fee will be paid to attendtwo training sessions.Sexual Health advice and info(For ages 11 – 25)Need advice and don’t know where to turn? Why notdrop into SKY direction! Come and have a one to oneadvice session with our sexual health and relationshipexpert.If you are interested in any of the activities pleasecontact: Tash at SKY Partnership office on 020 77296970 or info@skypartnership.org.ukStar MCsIf you are looking to find your own voice through writing,recording and performing songs Urban Griots runworkshops and showcases in this – for more informationcontact Uzo on 020 8141 7733 or 07833 996 809 orurbangriots@yahoo.co.uk.PingFancy joining a Table Tennis/ping league, withopportunities to go on to amateur or elite level? If you doplease contact Nary Wijeratne onNary.Wijeratne@aquaterra.org or 020 7686 8812Hackney Mediation ServiceHackney Mediation Service are looking for positive,creative young people who would like to make adifference in their community by becoming a peerresearcher or a peer mediator. For more informationcontact Kweku at mediation@hackney.gov.uk or on020 8356 4834Lindsey, 16:“I like Victoria Parkbecause there’s alot to do there. It’san open spacewhere anybody cango without anyhassle and it’s veryrelaxing.”Contrast 03

Meet the poetry peopleDuring Hackney’s Write To Ignite Festival, Steve Liburd caught up with up and coming poets 'APoem in Between People', also known as 'PIP'Rico, 18:“I like going toHackney Empirebecause it is avibrant place – it’sthe heart ofHackney. It helpstalented people getpromoted.”A Poem in Between peopleis a poetry group made up offour black men. Despitethem not knowing eachother for too long, they seema close knit group. Theywere all really enthusiasticabout their poetry andalthough they have otherjobs they take writing theirpoetry very seriously.We met at the workplace of one of the members, a trendycafe in Central London, where we enjoyed the perks ofbeing the guests of one of the staff.Q: How has living in Hackney affected you?Joshua: Hackney has been quite instrumental to mygrowth. I've seen a lot of things and it's one of thoseplaces where even if you're not a part of the scene orcertain attitudes of living you still see things. Most of thepeople that listen to poetry from Hackney are not verykeen about hearing what’s wrong.Q: Has being a young black man in today's societyaffected what topics you cover in your poetry?Joshua: No. I wasn't brought up here. I come from acompletely different background, born and raised Catholicin Nigeria. When someone comes up to me and says 'youneed to represent the streets' I start laughing.Inua: From growing up in Nigeria to here to Dublin, thething I realised is that people are people everywhereregardless of their background. At fifteen years old, Irealised that the world is far bigger than me and far biggerthan where I come from and what affects black peopleaffects everyone else.Q: Do you ever get writer's block?Joshua: I have days when nothing makes any sense. I endup rhyming 'cat' with 'splat'. But then you come up withone line that you think is the best line you've ever comeup with and it starts growing strands and from that linecomes the whole poem.Q: What would you say to any young peopleinterested in writing poetry?Joshua: Write. Don't write what you know, write what youfeel. It's connected to what you know but also what youdon't know. Being honest will get you a lot further thenpandering to the crowd.Inua: I believe that there are as many worlds as there arepeople so, if you write something, the chances are thatsomeone will understand where you are coming from andconnect with it. You have the freedom of a page. It is ablank galaxy and whatever you write comes into being.Q: What were you doing at the 'Write to IgniteFestival'?Joshua: We're going to do poetry, what we do best. Wewere approached to do our music stuff but this show wasfor young people and they probably have misconceptionsof poetry and the best way to change that is to do our beststuff, something they can easily connect to and givepoetry a better image.For more information on PIP see their myspacepagewww.myspace.com/apoeminbetweenpeopleContrast would like to thank PIP04 Contrast

Class actCheryl O’Garro joins the stars promoting education for everyoneAnd for those of you thinking, “What does our school getout of it?” there is the chance to win the internationallyrecognised School Aid Award for your school’sachievements!By applying online at www.schoolaid.tv and clicking on“Register” and then “Sign Up”, your school can help raise£500,000 and get an award. So get online, register andstart raising! Events such as non-uniform days, bake salesand sponsored events will all help to raise the magicfigure of £500,000. Every little helps!The event was organised to raise awareness of povertyand what factors stop other young people from getting thebasic right to an education, as we do.We met celebrities! We met celebrities!Earlier this summer Contrast went to Coram Fields inCentral London for the UK Launch of the educationalcharity, School Aid.While we were there we met Devon Anderson (who playedSonny in Hollyoaks and Taj in Kerching), Ray Quinn (XFactor), Ortis Deley (former CBBC presenter) and MelindaMessenger (Fort Boyard)!!!They all turned up because School Aid needs your help!The charity is a partnership between relief programmes allover the world helping to provide education for children indeveloping countries. Money raised will be used toconstruct school buildings and provide equipment,teacher training, school meals and sanitation facilities.School Aid wants students and teachers in Britain to takepart in up to eleven fundraisers include Peace Aid, whichinvolves a sponsored silence to help provide teachingabout peace.To get started you can apply for fundraising packs with aCD, DVD, stickers, posters and a guide to help studentsand teachers with informative assemblies.We interviewed some of the celebrities and asked themwhy they were supporting School Aid. Devon Andersonsaid that he thinks: “Everyone deserves an education orthe choice of an education” and Ray Quinn was happy thatthis project is a long-term effort: “I’m just really happy thatit’s a year-long thing and not just a one off.”We also spoke to a teacher from Kenya who has firsthandexperience about how poverty can affect education,bringing home the reason why help is so vital. He said: “Aproblem is poverty when people turn up late and delayclasses, as there is no transportation to get them toschool.”He also felt quite strongly about staff numbers: “Thepopulation of the people is high compared to the numberof teachers in the school or it is very understaffed”.So join the list of celebrities and make a change. Apply towww.schoolaid.tv through your school or youth group andplan assemblies to raise awareness and money!I’m doing my bit. Make sure you do yours and help SchoolAid and those underprivileged to get an education to helpthem to see a brighter future.Zulf, 16:“I like HackneyDowns because,before I startedschool, I used toplay in the parksthere – I miss it.”Contrast 05

Left to rightBisi Fashesin,Ryan Phillippeand LaraAkinnawoQuestion timeLara Akinnawo and Bisi Fashesin rub shoulders with the stars at the Dorchester HotelEmmanuel, 18:“I like HackneyCommunity Farmbecause the duckschase me.”Contrast was invited to attend the London pressconference for the new FBI spy film, Breech. We rubbedshoulders with A-list Actors such as Ryan Phillippe, ChrisCooper and Hollywood director, Billy Ray, and we got tosee for ourselves what happens at a press conference.The conference for Breech was held at the DorchesterHotel in Mayfair, which is the poshest hotel we had everbeen to. When we arrived, we were shown into a grandroom.We found that the three main parts of a press conferenceconsisted of the celebrity panel, a group of journalists andan interviewer who chaired the meeting. The panelistswere seated at a table behind microphones, where theywere able to answer questions from the crowd ofjournalists in front of them.The interviewer’s role was to chair the conference,expanding on questions and making things more orderly.A number of journalists from different publications werethere, including a reporter from The Guardian. Individualjournalists put forward one question at a time, and otherjournalists were able to take down the response from thecelebrity panel.Ryan Philippe, Chris Cooper and Billy Ray were extremelyrelaxed and looked at home answering questions; Ryan inparticular, sat back in a black sleeveless vest top revealingthe trendy tattoo on his arm. Chris was a very calmcharacter and seemed to be putting more thought into hisanswers than the others, and Billy Ray’s enthusiasm aboutthe film made us want to go back and watch it again!Not long after being in the conference room, we noticedthat we were the youngest journalists there. We felt likewe were small fish in a big sea! Although we were thrilledto be there, none of the other journalists shared ourexcitement at being in the same room as these bigHollywood names. It was just another day’s work for them!The journalists tended to be witty and used a lot ofelaborate language. Their questions touched on subjectslike politics and the how much insightthe FBI gave into the real story behindthe film. Right at the end of theconference I finally plucked up thecourage to ask the final question:“What kind of audience do youimagine would love this film?”‘Anyone who wants to see great acting, rigorousauthenticity and suspense’ replied Billy Ray.This has definitely given us both a taste for career injournalism in the future!Breech is in cinemas now.Billy Ray’senthusiasm aboutthe film made uswant to go backand watch it again!06 Contrast

Rising StarsCheryl O'Garro profiles two talented young people from Hackney whoare well on their way to success as a photographer and an architectPictures take by LeanneLeanne Bourke - PhotographerAge: 16How did you first get into photography?I was given my first camera at six, andinstantly fell in love with it. My mum used toread those snazzy National Geographicmagazines and I’d pretend that the gardenwas my own wilderness to capture on myown little camera, since then it's been a longnurtured hobby of mine.How long have you been doing it?I started messing around with cameras atsix but I only became seriously interestedabout four years ago.What is your favourite subject or item thatyou have photographed?People! I love people. They're so flexible andalways changing, much like the landscape,but landscapes take ages to change. Atleast with a person you have movement ona whim.If you could take a photo of anything, whatwould it be and why?Hmm. Bones. I find bones really beautiful.The contours and colour, shadow andangles, all the little details. If I could paintwell, I’d be painting them but alas, I can'tpaint for poo.Who or what inspires you?I inspire myself. Self-motivation is the keybut I do admire Ansel Adams’ work.What other hobbies do you have?Hahaha. hmm. does sleeping count? I enjoyhistory, reading, and all the usual teenagepastimes.Anything else you want the people ofHackney to know about you?I have curly hair =)Jamie O’Garro - Budding ArchitectAge: 9How did you first get into designing andbuilding?I don’t know, I just got interested in it. Butwhen I first started watching Robot Warsand Fightbox, I always wanted to go onthem.What do you find most enjoyable aboutbuilding and designing?The building part and putting the partstogether. It’s fun!What type of things do you generally liketo build or design?Robots, rockets and aircraft, new transportthat doesn’t use petrol and diesel.What do you generally use to build yourmodels?Lego, K-nex, Magnetix, cardboard boxes,lollipop sticks and when I can get them,bricks.What is your favourite building in the UK orabroad?The Eiffel Tower because it looks like arocket! I don’t know, there’s lots! Do youknow what I would really like to do? Dig upthe Eiffel Tower, put rocket launchers on itand turn it into a rocket!!!What are you currently building at themoment?A nuclear power plant that uses the smokethat comes out to make energy.Contrast 07

Learning issuesContrast talks to young people from the Kurdish community about education and underachievementThe Halk Evi isHackney’s Turkish& Kurdish Communitycentre. For moreinformation about theHalk Evi or theKurdish YouthParliment pleasecontact:info@halkevi.comKurdish Youth ParlimentSteve, 16:“I love Mare Streetbecause there arelots of shopsthere.”Why do you think that Kurdish youth are amongstthe biggest underachievers in the UK?Aygul (Member of Kurdish Youth Parliament): Onepopular opinion is that Kurdish young people are stuckbetween two cultures. I disagree. They know their own(Kurdish) culture very well but they don’t seem to knowmuch about the British education system.Feryat Demirci (Hackney Councillor): We have aproblem in our schools. The Kurdish community is a verynew community in London and this underachievementhasn’t been recognised until recently.There is a lack of parents’ involvement because of thelanguage barrier and schools not recognising early on thatyoung people need extra support because they won’t beable to get this at home.It is unlikely that they will speak English at home so by thetime they do learn English to a standard level they willhave lost a lot of motivation, which will push them awayfrom education.We are now a recognised community and the governmentis trying to tackle these issues. Unfortunately a generationwent through the education system who were notrecognised and didn’t achieve very well.Duygu (University Student): There is an issue with thesub-culture that has been created amongst some of theKurdish youth. It seems to be about being out and abouthaving fun instead of being at school.Also, sometimes a family’s only way of communicatingwith society is through their kids, so they will often makethem take a day off school to translate for them at thedoctor’s, for example.Do you think the problem is that Kurdish youngpeople think are not good enough to achieve even ifthey try?Aygul: I’m not sure if that’s really the case. Other ethnicminorities have had vast amounts of research done, whichhas allowed them to raise awareness of their issues.Kurdish, Turkish and Turkish Cypriots haven’t had thisopportunity to the same degree. There hasn’t been muchresearch done on our underachievement and its causes.Also, you have to consider the political and economicalbackgrounds of different ethnic groups back in theircountries. Most Kurdish young people are secondgenerationimmigrants whose parents have had noeducation or very little education.Duygu: We are pushed to study but not given examplesof how from our parents’ generation. As a result we haveto become quite independent as we don’t seem to gettheir support but rather we end up supporting them.What do you think could solve the problems ofunderachievement?Feryat: The government is putting a lot of funding into itthe moment, which all helps. Also, re-educating theschools and society as a whole. Mentoring always helpsnot just the young people but also perhaps the parentsand even the schools. There are so many things out therefor young people, not just university but training andapprenticeships as well. We need to make people moreaware.Duygu: When I was at school they got the year 11s tospeak to our class about the things that they were doingand that was really good. I think working together withConnexions would help. It’s about tying all of these thingstogether, There are improvements but we could always domore.Contrast would like to thank Councilor Feryat Demirci,Aygul Ozdemir, Duygu Yildiz, Silan Fidan & Halil Gam fromthe Halk Evi08 Contrast

ContrastXtraWelcome to the first ever Contrast Extra. This is anew four page supplement written and co-designedby looked after children.We hope that it will give you an insight into what itmeans to be a looked after young person andchallenge any stereotypes you may have, as well asgiving you some very interesting reading!ThanksThe Contrast Extra editorial teamDifferent or not?A Care Leaver challenges your assumptions on what it means to be in careSome people say that it is because of a disability, others say it isbecause their parents do not want them.Well, the only way that people’s eyes will be open is by me tellingyou what it is like being a care leaver right here in Hackney.There is lot of stigma about being in care. People are put into carefor reasons including family break-up, parental problems or if theyare vulnerable or in danger. You may think these things do nothappen but I got news for you… they do!Most people assume that I, and others in care, are disruptive,rude and out of control but that isnot true.One thing about being in long-term care is that it makes you growup faster and appreciate what you have.I am lucky that I have experienced both goodand bad carers.However some people have a difficult time incare and the fact that they can feel left out attimes can make it worse.Until you know what it is like being in care, don’t judge someonewho is!Care Leaver,16“people assume that I,and others in care, aredisruptive, rude andout of control but thatis not true.”Contrast Extra 01

Fashion senseAre you wearing this season’s styles? Veronica gives us the lowdown onthe what’s hot and what’s not in Hackney past and presentThis year, the items that are in fashion for girls are: leggings,footless tights, flats/flip flops, skirts and dresses.I like the fashion this year because it is simple and there are lots ofstyles to it. Everyone can wear these clothes. They are flattering andthey can be cheap and still look good!partings in their hair and women had a curled style that was calleda wash and set. Very different to the wide range of hairstyles you canhave today.Last year’s fashion was a bit different, it was: pumps, little jackets,vest tops and rara skirts.Boys’ fashion this summer has been dull and dry. It doesn’t have anystyle and the majority of boys have been dressing in tracksuits andtrainers as if it were winter. Last year was very different; they werewearing sandals and shorts with vest tops or T-shirts, which I prefer.These photos show a selection of outfits that are popular thissummer – these will keep you in style...My favourite shops for this season’s clothing in Hackney are:Primark, MK One, JD Sports (especially for boys), Peacocks, NewLook and Atlantic ClothingThere seems to be a big difference in fashion today compared to 50years ago. More people nowadays are dressing revealingly, lesspeople are wearing hats - they are generally just worn just asfashion, whereas they used to be a part of everybody’s outfit.Fifty years ago not many women wore trousers, men had side02 Contrast Extra

Sleeping in is over –What’s next?ZZZZZZRuth tells us about the different educational options after GCSEsIt’s that time again. Time for what, you ask?helpline and ask for details about placements in your area.Did you feel that your holiday went by too quickly?As you probably know and hate, it’s time for school and possiblycollege again. You got your results and I hope they were good.So now that’s out of the way, what next?Some of you might be going to college or maybestaying in your school for 6th form. There’sa range of things you can do incollege, such as BTECs, A-Levelsand vocational courses. If yourgrades weren’t what you expectedyou can always do re-takes.If you don’t want to go tocollege you can speak toyour Connexionsadvisor about doing anapprenticeship - you canphone the apprenticeshipYou can also go direct by getting in touch with employers who offerapprenticeships. They can be found in your local job listings,newspapers or by listening to your local radio stations. Localrecruitment agencies may also be able to help.What is an apprenticeship?It is a work-based training programme for young people who wantto develop their skills and career. With an apprenticeship you canearn money, gain new qualifications and skills, as well asknowledge. There are over 200 different types of apprenticeships sothere is bound to be one that suits you.You can do an apprenticeship if you’re aged between 16 and 24 andnot in full-time education. By doing an apprenticeship you can gainthe same level qualifications as GCSEs and A levels.There are many options available so why not check them out?!Apprenticeship helpline number: 0800 0150 600Website: www.apprenticeships.org.ukPoetryChange my way of thinkingSo I was able to change my wayUsed to be an unhappy young man with a screw face.Used to be violent, loved to start trouble with no cause.I did most of the crimes in the book.I was running with the wrong crowd in the wrong direction.So I ended up wasting my health to gain respect. Doing things toplease the friends that I thought were my friends.So I grew up doing some heal stuff.Stealing people’s cars, motorbike, pedal bike, mobile phone andanything was pleasing to my sight.I wasn’t helped with my life and things were going downhill.But there was this lady who invited me to Bible study.I wanted and I liked it, so I keep attendingI was learning a lot of things, such as ‘as man thinks so is hebecomes‘.That helped me change my way of thinking.So I was able to change my way of living.I understood that the state of my mind reflected the state of life.Because if you think you’re a fool, you will act like one and becomeone.On the other hand if you believe and think you arewise, and you can fulfill your dreams and goals, andarchive great things, you will.That is how my change came, by changing mythinking pattern.I stopped walking round with people whohad a bad influence on me.Because if you walk with four foolsbefore you realise, you will be the fifthone.So I started choosing my friendscarefully and the places that I wentand how I spent my time.I had great in interest in sport sojoined a boxing club, and I foundthat I had great talent.I have been boxing now for yearsand the goal is to become theworld champion.Eric OchiengContrast Extra 03

?Questions about careD J Thomas talks us through some common questions from youngpeople when they first go into careWhat does being ‘In care’ mean?Sometimes children or young people are not able to live with theirparents. This could be down to illness or family problems. If thishappens to you then the local council will take responsibility for you.What is the difference between short term andlong term care placements?Foster care placements are either short term, in whichyou stay for up to 2 years, or long term where you stay untilyou return to your family home or you are old enough to leavehome. Sometimes you stay with a short term carer and endup living there for years or you may stay in a few differentshort term placements.You will generally only go to a long term placement when yoursocial worker assesses that you will not be living at your familyhome anymore. If you have any questions about this you cantalk it through with your IRO (independent reviewing officer).Can I take my belongings with me when I move?Yes, you can take your personal belongings with you and sometimeseven pets, although you will need to speak to your social worker tofind out if your carers are happy to have an extra pet in the house.Members surgery?Do you want to share your views on being looked after byHackney and meet people who have had similar experiences ??Who can I talk to if I have a problem and what support isavailable to me?You can talk to your social worker, reviewing officer, foster carer oralternatively VOICE, which is an organisation helping get youngpeople’s voices heard, providing an advocacy service to all childrenand young people looked after by Hackney. Please contact yoursocial worker or your Corporate Parenting Support Officer,Sheema Meah on 020 8356 6327 for more information onVOICE.If I’m not happy in my placement can I move?If you are unhappy with your placement you can make a request toyour social worker or reviewing officer to move. You will have to givereasons why you want to move and you might be asked to givethings another go if your carer offers to make changes. If theproblem is serious you will be moved.How often will I see my family and friends?This varies from person to person and according towhat has been agreed in your placement plan. If youhave any questions about it speak to your social worker orfoster carer. You may also be able to have your placementplan reviewed.The next surgery is on Wednesday 21st November, from 4pmuntil 7 at 186 Homerton Hugh Street.?Come and talk to Councillor Rita Krishna, Lead Cabinet Member forChildren and Young People, at members' surgeries. Surgeries helpyou become engaged in the political process and help you to feelvalued and listened to.The theme is "Staying Safe," it will include talks and demonstrationson how to stay safe.For more information call Sheema on 020 8356 6327Sheema Meah - Hackney’s Corporate ParentingSupport OfficerShe is there to listen to cared for young people, befriend them andadvocate for them - making sure their views are heard andexpressed in meetings and reviews where decisions are taken.Sheema is also there to support cared for young people. Sheorganises workshops, trips and fun activities, and providesinformation about opportunities, rights and responsibilities.She is responsible for making sure that cared for young people’sviews are taken into account with the planning of services inHackney.Sheema’s job is to help cared for young people to understandtheir rights and support them find their way around care.If you would like to get in touch with Sheema either call 020 83566327 or 07976 113 343, email Sheema.Meah@hackney.gov.uk orarrange a drop in.04 Contrast Extra

GalleryArtwork by: KaressArtwork by: BanaSend poetry or artwork toContrast,Social Spider, Unit 3NLeroy House, 436 EssexRoad, London, N1 3QPPoetryIntroductionI grew up in Hackney, all my life. For me poetry is a wayof expressing myself; it helps me express my views andfeelings to other people.Just by looking around and analysing life in Hackneyand in London. This influenced me to write poetryexpressing my views and opinions on issues whichaffect me and you. My belief is young people my ageand younger should be able to go around freely withoutthe fear out watching over their shoulders.To see more of Rico’s poems visitwww.myspace.com/were_im_fromThe sky is the limit by - Ricardo MontaqueThe sky is the limit,Haven’t we all heard that before?It’s a place of mystery with an enormous open doorTime is limited so we need to hurry up and get by, andmake a lasting impact before we say are final goodbye.We want to achieve the unachievable, believe theunbelievable.We want to glow like a shining star, wizz across the skylike a formula 1 racing car.We will achieve our goal and jus know you will never seeus fall.We want to emulate dizzy rascal and stand up tall,We want to be a great success; unique and different fromall of the restWe are on the road to success and the sky is the limit, thatwhy we can’t settle for nothing less not even 2nd best.The sky is my limit and we will always stay focusesSoaring with the birds is my ambition,And I will achieveAnd so can you if you only believeBisi, 17:“My favorite placein Hackney isHackney Central.They hold the bestshows there!“Contrast 09

What’s all the HYPe?Lindsey Jones reports on her time with Hackney Youth Parliamentpersonal safety, postcode conflicts, environmental issues,sexual and mental health.Hackney Youth Parliament (HYP) is supported byHackney Youth Services to enable young people tocome together as one group to discuss and affect localissues. HYP acts as the voice of young people inHackney, enabling young people to have a say indecision making and effect change.HYP comes up with ideas that motivate Hackney's youngpeople or try and help them in whatever way they can,showing them alternative ways to live their lives - showingthem people and organisations that you can go to for help,advice, or just to chat.We have come up with lots of ways to show thecommunity what is happening and how people areaffected by important local issues such as; crime,Some of the ways we have looked at these issues are viaevents, publications, peer led training, residentials andconsultations.We feed local issues through to the UK Youth Parliamentwhere we meet with other young people from otherboroughs all over London and campaign on commonissues.Some members of the Hackney Youth Parliament alsomeet together to assess applications made by otheryoung people to the Youth Opportunity Fund, this fundenables young people to design and develop their ownprojects.For further information contact Hackney YouthParticipation Team on: Nathan Cato 07976342 244. Helen Greaves 07968 028 311or visitwww.thehype.infoZen in the cityCityZen tell us what they are up to and how you can get involvedCheryl, 17:“My favourite placeis Hackney is eitherthe library orDalston KingslandShopping Centrebecause I lovebooks andshopping!”CityZEN is a peer-led youth empowerment group, runby young people from Hackney and neighbouringboroughs of belonging through ‘gang membership’. Itspecialises in a range of peer-led initiatives thatencourage and motivate young people to take on anactive role in their communities.CityZEN undertakes:Peer Education work: Running fun and interactiveworkshops for young people, staff and organisations.Training courses include teambuilding, understandingteam dynamics, conflict resolution, diversity, disability,peer research, active participation, child protection, trainthe trainers etc.Peer Mentoring: which involves mentoring and advicework for young people on topics such as stop and search,sexual health or careers.Peer Research and Consultation: recruiting, trainingand supporting young people to carry out consultationswith other young people to find out and ensure thattheir issues and concerns are understood. Thismay involve street-based interviews for aresearch project or organising youthconferences and residentials.Capacity Building: CityZEN helps youngpeople set up their own projects toaddress their local concerns and ideasHere are just a few projects CityZEN arecurrently involved in:Clued Up; is a sexual health organisationformed by CityZEN and SKY partnership. It is apeer-led project that focuses on deliveringsexual health and relationship educationworkshops..Youth Involvement Project, thisdelivers a youth involvement project oneight estates in Hackney training youngpeople in youth work skills and playwork.If you would like further information onCityZEN and our services please contactus on 020 8986 3882 or email us atcityzengroup@hotmail.com10 Contrast

Hackney Children and Young People’s ServicesThe best start in life for every young personConnexions Access Shop27b Dalston LaneHackney E8 3DFTel: 020 7275 0346Fax: 020 7254 8602New Connexions One Stop ShopShoreditch Library80 Hoxton StreetHackney N1 6CPTel: 020 8356 3371Are you 13 - 19 (up to 25 if you have special educational needs)?Get information, advice and support on subjects below and more:DO YOU NEED HELP OR SUPPORT WITH ANY OF THESE ISSUES?• School Exclusions, Bullying or Peer Pressure• Education Training and Employment• Job Clubs and help writing CVs• Homelessness and Benefits• Personal Development Opportunities and Volunteering• Pregnancy, Parenting and how to access Care To Learn• Support around Sexuality and Relationships• Domestic Violence or Family Breakdowns• Accessing free Condoms and Sexual Health Advice• Counselling Services, also accessing skilled Drug and Alcohol workers.• Offending Behaviour or you feel at Risk of becoming involved inGang CultureCome into our Centres and speak to aConnexions Personal AdviserLate night opening at Dalston Lane Shop till7pm on Mondays & Wednesdays.

School SmartCheryl O Garro’s back-to-school guideTip Number 1: Always pack your school bag the night beforeIf you wake up with 45 minutes to get to school, having your bagpacked already saves time you’d spend trying to find that pen youleft on your floor or worrying about whether your P.E kit is clean.Tip Number 2: Keep all your work for different subjectsseparateWhether you use one folder and take advantage of dividers or useseparate folders, keep the work separate and then you won’t getconfused, making life that little bit easier.Tip 3: Do your homework on timeThis one seems like common sense, but we’ve all been guilty of notdoing homework to deadline at least once and it adds to the hasslesof everyday life.Tip 4: Plan your time wiselyThere’s no point doing homework that not due in for two weeksbefore the one that due in a few days time. Know what I mean?Tip 5: If it is relevant to your subject- ask for a reading list.That way you don’t spend valuable time trawling through the librarylooking for book. As a bonus, your tutors will know that you areinterested. Sorted!Tip 6: Check all your equipment regularly and make sure it’sall in working order.I know this one from experience. Your worst nightmare is to go to anexam and find that your pens are not working. Argh!!Tip 7: If you’re starting a new school, try to get to know thegeneral layout or ask somebody to show you around.It‘s nerve-wracking enough starting a new school without gettinglost. Hopefully there will be people who will tell you everything beforehand, but sometimes it pays to be proactive.Tip 8: If you have problems, ask your teachers for help orextended deadlines.They won’t eat you for it and they appreciate it more if you ask thembefore the deadline so that they know you need help. Let them feelwanted!!!Tip 9: Coursework: Pays to start earlyPicture this. A mad teenager running around two weeks beforedeadline, getting no sleep and hardly eating for fear of not havingtime to finish their coursework. Sound pretty? I didn’t think so.Tip 10: Get a good night’s sleep.Otherwise you will wake up looking and feeling like Frankenstein,you will be tired and you won’t be able to concentrate.

Da street dictionaryDo you know the word on the streets? Test yourself with our Hackney slang dictionaryAir - Ignore ("Why you airin me?")Barlin - CryingBeast - UglyBash - BoyBattling - DancingABLMLash - Get hitLean - DrunkLoose - Something pointlessMash up - TiredMucky - GoodClass - GoodCherps - To chat up opposite sexCorrosive - Good lookingDrum - HouseDim - OKDutty Bungle - Dirty personEgg - Acting or being foolishExtra - Over the topEndz - Your areaFat / Phat - It’s /You’re Looking GoodFreezed - Angry/Vexed (“Don't get mefreezed”)Fraff - Chatting rubbishFlossing - Showing expensive taste throughclothes or jewelleryGritty / Dutty - Looks badGrimey - Too GoodGarms - ClothesHyped - Over excitedHooby Dooby - A crowed around a fightHood Rat – Someone who hangs aroundthe street.Hatin' - JealousyJonnies - IdiotsJacked - To take from someone withoutpermissionKelix - TrainersKnob - StupidCDEFGHJKNOPRSTWYZNang – GreatOne - ByePerch - HousePebble - TiredRonkin - StinkingRank - NastyRooster - ManSick - *See nang (“That tune was sick”)Smell me - Do you understand?Shrapnel - Small changeSkank - Dance styleTax Man - A ThiefTuff - Looks niceTreds - TrainersTwisted - Mixed up or confusedWa'gwan - Hello / What’s going on?Wack - RubbishWasteman - A person who hangs aroundthe streetsWhine - Dancing closeYout - Young ChildZinging - GoneZogged - UglyPut together by Bana, Karess, Selin & Merve.Lara, 17:“I like Oceanbecause of theirshows, raves andBattle of theBoroughs. It has agood vibe.”Contrast 13

Look: Film reviewsHairsprayHairspray is about the efforts of Tracy Turnblad as she follows herdream to be on the Corny Collins TV Show. She manages it butonce she gets there, she discovers that being different in 1960sBaltimore is not easy.Hairspray is feelgood fun and you will leave feeling as if your twohours were spent wisely.From the outset you feel the warmth and energy of Nikki Blonskyas Tracy and will be rooting for her all the way to the end.The songs are catchy and easy for the audience to sing along to (ifnecessary!) and John Travolta is spectacularly convincing as Tracy’smum Edna.The subplot about racial integration on the Corny Collins show givesthe film enough bite to keep us thinking, whilst the comings andgoings of her relationship with Link will keep many romanticshappy.Fantastic Four - Rise ofthe Silver Surfer -PremiereContrast was invited to thepremiere of the FantasticFour - Rise of the SilverSurfer in Leicester Square.We walked down the bluecarpet and mingled with anumber of celebrities,including the super sexyJessica Alba, one of the stars of the film.XWe received some special treatment; we were given free popcorncourtesy of the cinema.The movie itself was action-packed, with many scenes of theFantastic Four showing off their superhuman powers, as well as avery convincing debut for the Silver Surfer.All in all, Hairspray is a definite for those who haven’t already seenit and those who have will want to again. This is going to be adefinite addition to my DVD collection.Cheryl O’GarroThe movie even had a scene familiar to everyone in Central Londonwith the Fantastic Four coming to the capital’s rescue. There was alsoa lot of humour in the movie for all of the family to enjoy.Steve Liburd/Rosheena HardingRead: Book reviewsBlood – Alan Durant‘Blood’ is a story of betrayal,secrets and conspiracies, inwhich the prematurely orphanedRobert seeks revenge for themurder of his parents and willstop at nothing to bring thoseresponsible to justice.He travels from his home inEngland as far as France in orderto try and unearth the culprits,exposing some home truths alongthe way.The book takes you on a captivating journey through the life of ayoung man destroyed by his loss as he tries to solve a mystery inwhich there are many unexpected twists and turns, with nothing asstraightforward as it may seem.I really enjoyed reading this book and found it impossible to putdown until the identity of the murderer, something that caught meby surprise, was revealed.Steve LiburdVampire Beach (Bloodlust) - Alex DuvalJason has just moved to Malibu, home to rich kids and fabulousparties.He is pleased he is fitting in and extremely pleased that he has caughtthe eye of Sienna, a stunning, popular lady.Unfortunately for Jason, Sienna is already taken by Brad - a goodfriend of his - and, because of this, he tries to deny his feelings forSienna.Jason soon realises his new friends are hiding a very deep secret andthat the Malibu parties in his neighbourhood involve a little more thanthe usual alcohol and music - meanwhile a murder has taken placeduring a party he has gone to and it doesn’t take long for him torealise his friends’ secret had something to do with it.It takes Jason a while to realise Sienna wants to be more than friendsand then, because of their connection, she reveals the truth about herand Jason’s friends‘ secret.What would seem to be a normal American teenage story becomes adangerous, supernatural book. I feel the book was enjoyable to readand I would definitely recommend this book to young teenagers.Karess Laidley14 Contrast