Exposure Magazine Issue 106 by Exposure

A HARINGEY YOUTH PUBLICATION

free

Dec 2010

£0.00

issue 106

DRINK & DRUGS SU PPLEMENT INCLUD ED INSIDE

Gabriel Calderwood reviewer

Guldem Masa writer Pedro De Freitas reviewer

Serwaa Appiah writer

emwa

Jeremy Kash writer

Lesley Pelovang u writer

Leigh-Anna Reze l writer

Annette Oppo ng writer

Charlotte Collinwood writer

Ria Hayles writer

The Bigger Shoe Box, Muswell Hill Centre, Hillfield Park, N10 3QJ Tel: 020 8883 0260 Fax: 020 8883 2906 Mob: 07947 884 282 Email: info@exposure.org.uk Website: www.exposure.org.uk Regrettably our office is inaccessible to wheelchair users but we will make every effort to include everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work.

Mary Gallagh er illustrator

Huynh Hoa Tr an illustrator

Tamara WickhamHayward poet

Printed by TIP Limited 07590 850 532 Andreas Koumi: Manager Gary Flavell: Editor Luke Pantelidou: Designer Flo Codjoe: Development Officer Mirella Issaias: Special Projects Max Sycamore: Video Editor & IT Enrico Tessarin: Video Manager Sarah Huntington: Volunteer Editor

Disclaimer Exposure aims to give young people an independent voice which can contribute to the democratic process. While Exposure has done its best to check material contained within this publication, we cannot accept responsibility for inaccurate information provided by outside organisations. Organisations mentioned are not necessarily connected with nor endorsed by Exposure. Permission has been sought, wherever possible, for the use of copyright material. Where contact has not been possible we hope that, as a voluntary organisation helping to educate and inform young people, it is acceptable for Exposure to use such material for the benefit of young people.

Issue 106

December 2010

Exposure is free and open to anyone aged 13 to 19 living in or around Haringey. If you want to get into journalism, design or film-making, get involved.

l u f h t ng u o Y inki th Exposure – finalist at the Spirit of London awards Editorial by The Exposure Team Spirit of London finalists

Quote: There are only two forces in the world, the sword and the spirit. In the long run the sword will always be conquered by the spirit. Napoleon Bonaparte These are difficult times. You’ve probably heard plenty about it on the news and in the papers. Everyone will be affected, including Exposure. In order to survive through adversity you have to adapt, be tenacious, be skilled, work hard, and be resilient. Exposure is all these things. And we’re not the only one’s who think so. Recently Exposure were invited to The O2 to attend the Spirit of London Awards, developed by the Damilola Taylor Trust. We beat thousands of entrants to make it through to the final three of the Achievement Through

Garfield Weston Foundation

Media category. It was an honour to be shortlisted, and we’re very proud of ourselves! We will take this and move forward. We will continue to work hard, to cover issues that are important to you. As young people we will fight to ensure that we are represented fairly in the press, and prove that young people are capable of doing amazing things. We are here. We will survive. We are Exposure. Keep up to date with all our news. Search for ‘Exposure Organisation’ on facebook & twitter

Hornsey Parochial

reviews

ENTER THE VOID Enter the Void is a ‘psychedelic melodrama’, and the latest film by Gasper Noe, the director of the disturbing Irreversible. It is set mainly in the Tokyo red light district. The story is of a drug dealer’s search for reincarnation after he is shot by the police. Enter the Void grips you from the first second of the film to the last, completely blasting away your mind and shocking you to the bone as Gasper Noe takes you through the protagonist’s life, and the lives of his family and friends. The narrative continually hints upon heavy subjects like drugs and even incest as you make your way through the film. Enter the Void is a must see, and even though rated 18 remains a raw and sometimes disturbing film, so be advised before watching. 4

By Gabriel Calderwood

Gabriel

Pedro

Guldem

DESPICABLE ME In a happy suburban neighborhood surrounded by white picket fences with flowering rose bushes, sits a black house with a dead lawn. Hidden beneath this home is a vast secret hideout. Surrounded by a small army of minions, we discover Gru planning the biggest heist in the history of the world. He is going to steal the moon! I love animated films like Shrek and Toy Story, but I enjoyed Despicable Me even more. It is intelligent, modern, charming, exciting and the story is exceptionally told! You will fall in love with the characters. There’s also an A list cast including Steve Carell, Julie Andrews, and Russell Brand. You can also watch it in 3D, with the effects being almost as good as Avatar. Don’t miss your chance to see Despicable Me, especially in 3D. It’s marvelous and I can’t wait until I see it again.

By Pedro De Freitas

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2 This spine-chilling film takes place around the same time as the first did. The narrative centres on a normal middle class suburban family. After experiencing what they believe are a series of break-ins, the family set up security cameras around their home. Events unfold and things are more sinister than they seem. Paranormal Activity 2 will haunt you long after the credits have rolled. The faux-amateur camera work is cleverly shot to make you feel as though you are watching a series of real-life events, which adds to the scariness. It plays with people’s fear of the supernatural and you’ll be checking the door is locked before bed time. Paranormal Activity 2 is very similar to the first film in the sense of something unknown lurking in a family home, and there’s still plenty to be terrified by.

By Guldem Masa 5

Night Night school school

Miss G

Little Miss G gets a lesson in growing up the pointless phone call, order another too fast double vodka coke and party the night I’m 14, but I feel older. I look older. Nightlife echoes, the clubs are calling, the pubs persist, they pull me closer. I want to be out there making the most of the nightlife, not watching the clock strike 7pm while doing homework. Is it wrong to wave goodbye to my childhood? School portrait, aged 11: Golden curls, plaits and ponytails; a fresh face of innocence, and a head full of fairytales. The school uniform: a newly ironed shirt tucked into a skirt draped below the knee. Me sitting on the gym bench surrounded by my classmates. Facebook picture, aged 14: The hair is now highlighted red and straightened, the once fresh face of innocence now plastered in foundation, the eyes heavily smoked in black, and the lips, red and plump. The little revealing River Island number is worn with those new black stilettos and I’m standing at the bar with my 20-year-old friends, the start of the evening. A typical night out: the girls and

away. 4am, Tuesday morning, and we go back to someone’s house; can’t remember much except for waking up in the garden, a few hours later. The cold breeze hits the back of my bare legs. It’s a school day, and I quickly realise that going out on a school night wasn’t the best of idea. 8am, limping home with friends with only one heel on. The reality that I have an exam in less than 45 minutes sets in, the phone call from my school friends the night before flashes to the front of my mind. Ok, although at this point my hangover isn’t that bad, I am still in my revealing dress, 20 minutes away from home. I need to sober up, change into my uniform, revise, and turn up on time to my exam. The initial idea of a fun and outrageous midweek night out quickly turns into a disaster. And there is nothing I can do to change the situation I find myself in. The damage has been done.

The initial idea of a fun and outrageous midweek night out quickly turned into a disaster I legging it to the pub, the evening drawing closer and the streets of London becoming alive as the lights brightened. The regular sound of our heels pacing the pavement synchronised with my heartbeat, and we’re almost there. We meet up with the lads, and they get a round in, the shots soon arrive. Before I know it, it is 1,2,3 go! After several rounds it’s off to the club, where the fun will really begin. 1am and I get a phone call, a friend in need maybe. I answer the phone. I wish I hadn’t. It’s a schoolmate who asks me where I am. They are all having a girly sleepover to study for the exam tomorrow: “Wow, I can’t believe I missed that,” I say sarcastically. I end

But, as I start to panic, my older friends will be sleeping off their hangover. For the first time, the division between us becomes apparent, and I would do anything to be around my 14-year-old classmates again. I’ve been constantly told that I am growing up too quickly, that I should be acting my own age, that I am still a child. I always felt patronised and wanted to prove people wrong: that I could hold my own with adults. But the harder I try, the more I seem to prove myself wrong. What I thought was nagging was actually advice, and I ignored it. That day, I turned up 15 minutes late to that exam in no fit state to take it. Results are on their way. Wish me luck.

For advice on this or any other issue see the list of local services in the directory on p23

Annette

Annette Oppong says wear pink! Burn your having to wear a uniform – for some it school uniform! gives a sense of belonging. Although I

What comes to mind when you think about your school uniform? Itchy tights? Choking ties? Not exactly what I’d call ‘comfortable learning’. With piles of coursework and the pressure to perform well in exams, surely we don’t have the time to worry about looking smart in our uniforms? These days it seems the school uniform you wear can define who you are. If your school has a bad reputation, you can be instantly labeled as ‘bad breed’ and written off because you share the uniform of a small minority of troublemakers. If everyone in your school has been labeled ‘Skets’ (someone who is promiscuous, usually a girl) then you are automatically deemed to be the same. We are taught not to think in stereotypes, but school

think it depends on what uniform your school has, as some are better than others. Some students take not conforming to uniforms too far though. There have been cases where pupils have been banned from taking exams, and even suspended or excluded for not wearing the correct uniform. When you’re super fashion conscious it is easy to forget that school is about education, not about worrying whether our tights are the right colour, or getting the hump if we’re told to tuck in our shirt. Fundamentally uniforms force every student into one mould and strip young people of their individuality. You can’t really express your own personal style when you have the wear the same thing

The most important thing should be that I’m succeeding in school, even if I am wearing a pink tutu and bright green socks uniform reinforces them. The idea of ‘school pride’ has taken on a new meaning among young people. At times it causes conflict among pupils from rival schools. Those from ‘tough’ schools target students in uniform from other schools in order to keep their reputation. A uniform’s purpose is to break down the idea of separation and superiority among young people, but it often segregates us even further. My uniform isn’t particularly flattering or comfortable. If we are going to wear it while enduring the pressures of school, shouldn’t we be able to feel comfortable? It might help us improve our academic performance. I don’t like spending six hours a day, five days a week being uncomfortable and feeling ashamed of what I’m wearing. The only good thing about looking like the next person is that I don’t have to figure out what to wear every day. Not everyone is as unhappy as me with

as everyone else. However, others say it is a way to make everyone equal and not alienate those who can’t afford the latest fashions. School uniform has also been said to improve academic results and behaviour. The theory is if you dress smart, you think smart. Many people support the idea of uniform, and there are very few schools that don’t have one. Uniforms have also proven to be cost friendly, as parents are not pressured into buying the latest fashion. However, the small advantages of my school uniform do not make up for the annoyance it causes me. I’m forced to wear the dreaded pleated skirt, a thick jumper and a blazer. I’m forever being told, ‘Fix your tie, young lady’ or, ‘Do up that top button’. And this usually happens during class, when I’m supposed to be learning. Ultimately the most important thing should be that I’m succeeding in school, even if I am wearing a pink tutu and bright green socks.

For advice on this or any other issue see the list of local services in the directory on p23

Written by Serwaa Appiah, Lesley Pelovangu and Charlotte Collinwood. Illustrated by Mary Gallagher.

I’m 16 years of age and my mum has just been diagnosed with schizophrenia. I know it’s bad, but I find it embarrassing that I have a mentally ill mum. I’m really low, and I’ve started spending time alone at school to avoid conversations where it might come up. I love her very much, but can’t get my head around the fact that she’s so unwell.

I have this friend who is always getting in trouble at school, and now my mum doesn’t want me hanging around with her. She’s not that bad, although she does mess about a bit. How can I convince my mum that my mate is okay to be friends with? That’s a tricky one! Your mum doesn’t see the other side to your friend – only the reputation. Perhaps your mum and your friend could have a chat about it? Or perhaps you can invite your friend home so your mum can see her ‘good bits’. Also you may be able to help your friend stop getting into to trouble. She may be having some problems that you can help her with. You should also consider that your mum may be right, and by hanging out with this girl you could find yourself in trouble.

It’s not unusual to be embarrassed if a relative is diagnosed with a mental illness. It may be helpful to discuss what you’re feeling with your mum. Also find out all you can about the illness to help better understand it. You could first speak to a counsellor (your mum may be doing so too) as they may have a better understanding of what’s going on in your head than your school friends. You could then think about talking to friends, and others that you trust, who can help you through this difficult time. There are lots of medications that can help your mum with the symptoms. Encourage her to take advantage of the support offered to her by the doctor. You can also get support for young carers on 020 8489 4895.

Seerwa

Lesley

Charlotte Mary

The Haringey Young People’s Counselling Service provides the answers to the problems featured in Agony. You can call them on 020 8493 1019 or fill out a booking form at www.youthspace.haringey.gov.uk/health

All my friends are taking cocaine. I’ve never wanted to touch the stuff and it’s bad that my friends are doing so much. I tell them that it’s unhealthy, but they don’t listen. I don’t know what to do. They are spending so much money on it. You need to have a straight conversation with them about it, it’s a good thing to educate them about it. Cocaine is bad for you physically as well as mentally, and it can bring on heart seizures and paranoia. It is mentally addictive and can end up being an expensive habit. On top of all that it’s an illegal class A drug so you’re looking at a hefty prison sentence just for possession. Point them towards www.talktofrank.com for more information. They also may want to speak to Involve Haringey on 020 8493 8525 for further guidance.

My friend has been having problems at home. Her parents just got divorced, and she’s dealing with it by selfharming. I’m scared that she may really hurt herself. I’m thinking of telling her parents but I’m afraid she will never talk to me again if I do. It’s understandable that your friend is having trouble coping with the situation. First, get her to talk things out with you or her parents. If this is difficult suggest that she sees a counsellor. Selfharming is seen as an unhealthy way of coping with a situation. A trained professional, such as a counsellor, can help her find a more healthy coping strategy.

Everyone’s got problems – see the Directory on page 23 for a list of support services. 11

Gallery

Huynh

Sleeping Romance Digital illustration. Photoshop

By Huynh Hoa Tran

Send your artwork to: Exposure, The Bigger Shoe Box, Muswell Hill Centre, Hillfield Park N10 3QJ or email: luke@exposure.org.uk.

HARINGEY PROVIDES Haringey Young People’s Counselling Service Haringey Young People’s Counselling Service provides one to one counselling and support to all secondary schools throughout the borough. They are also at Haringey 6th Form Centre. They also work with Social Services, YOS, Leaving Care Team, Teenage Intervention team, Young Parents Projects, victim support, Camhs AOT and many others. Their service has won an award for its group work and they have made a variety of important early interventions for young people, helping them to continue to study when at the risk of exclusion, gain important personal insight and growth, and improve many areas of their lives and relationships. The long term benefits of this kind of early intervention are enormous and life changing. Call Steve or Sharon on 020 8493 1019 for more details.

The Targeted Youth Inclusion Programme The Targeted Youth Inclusion Programme, offers one to one support and specially made programmes for 13 to 19-year-olds who are ‘at risk’ of crime, anti-social behaviour, teenage conception, gang activity, or dropping out of training or education. They use lots of different innovative and interesting projects to keep young people engaged. The Targeted Youth Inclusion Programme gives young people somewhere safe to go where they can learn new skills, take part in activities with other young people and get help with their education and career opportunities. As positive role models, the key workers help to change young people’s attitudes towards crime, education, the effects of Anti-social behaviour and teenage parenting. Call Lauren on 020 8489 8942 for information.

The Haringey Detached Team The Haringey Detached Team comprises of street based workers who engage young people in place and settings in which they choose to hang out. The Detached Team address issues of Anti-Social Behaviour, criminality, gang issues, substance misuse, relationships, and anything else young people want to discuss. They negotiate programmes of support with young people, based on both needs and interests, and provide the links to mainstream services and support. To find out more call Jahan on 020 8808 1004

Jeremy Kashemwa acts out for a brighter future The time had come. Hundreds of eyes were on me, and I was so nervous my mind went blank. All those hours of rehearsal, and yet the words just weren’t coming out. My heart was pounding, but I had to get a grip. I had an audience waiting for the performance they’d paid for. I tried to pretend that there was nobody in front of me, and started performing. In the end, it was the best experience of my short acting career. I live in Tottenham, an area often associated with gang violence and crime. A lot of my friends are in gangs, and being young I can’t help but be with them. Ultimately they’re my people, and I know they’ll be there if anyone tries to start any trouble with me. We like the same type of music, we all love to party, and we dress the same. But the one thing that separates me from my friends is my passion for drama. 14

I wasn’t interested in acting when I was younger. Like many other boys, I wanted to be a footballer. I only started getting involved in drama at secondary school. I like it because I feel like I’m using my talents for something good. Instead of being on the streets, I’m on stage doing what I do best. Drama makes me feel invincible. When I’m acting I express myself in a way I can’t with my friends, and I can release all my stress. On stage I go into a whole different world. The lights are on me, and everything else is pitch black. Nobody can interrupt me when I’m in a zone of my own. You might think it’s weird, but I call it passion. I’ve had positive comments from different people about my acting. I’ve been told I’ve got potential, and professional performers have said I’m good to watch. Comments like these really boost

Jeremy

my confidence, and help me perform to the best of my ability. They make me feel good and positive about myself. My acting idol is Will Smith. He is committed to the work he produces, and is entertaining to watch in every

might find your passion, and it just might take you on a whole new journey. Drama was my answer to coming off the streets, I wonder what yours might be? Growing up I’ve seen some things that

All the negative things that have happened in my life help me improve as an actor role he plays. He can switch styles too, being funny in one role but serious and emotional in another. Of course, not everybody will have a passion for drama. Some people love football or dancing or art. It’s not what you’re passionate about that’s important, it’s that you have the passion in the first place. If you’re not sure what you’d like to do, why not try something new? There are loads of activities you can do within Haringey. You never know where you

are not pleasant, like people being beaten up. I know as soon as I step outside, my mum worries, and I don’t blame her. But all the negative things that have happened in my life help me improve as an actor. I want to be even better, because there is always space for improvement. In a way the roads have helped me; when I see how some boys are living it makes me want to work harder. I don’t want to live my life like that; I want something better. Acting is my road to a brighter future.

For advice on this or any other issue see the list of local services in the directory on p23

LOSING DAD

Model used

For advice on this or any other issue see the list of local services in the directory on p23

Leigh-Anna

Leigh-Anna Rezel finds strength in loss When I was eight, my family was “normal”, whatever that is. My life was sheltered, wrapped up in cotton wool hugs. Then disaster struck. On New Year’s Day my father died of a heart attack. Something inside my head jolted. Something dislodged. I’d had him there all my life and then suddenly he was gone! It was as if I had been booted out of my innocent, naïve world where anything was possible, to a much different place that was dark, unfamiliar. A lot of things didn’t make sense. I didn’t make sense. Meaning and purpose drained away. My dreams and aspirations had been

misery pursued me through to maturity, I found solace in it. I preferred this way of life to my old. I missed my dad dearly but I don’t regret being thankful for how much stronger and bolder that tragic loss made me. People my age don’t tend to get a lot of advice on how to deal with situations like losing a mum or a dad. Most people are grown-up when they first come face to face with the death of a parent; they have life experience to help them cope. However, when expecting help from those older than me, I only received vague advice of ‘talk to someone’, which didn’t really appeal or help me. The best advice I can give is this: find your own natural coping mechanism

I wanted someone to tell me that there is no right or wrong way to feel about losing a parent shattered. My cynicism kicked in. A pessimistic eight-year-old huh? I remember how I would dream about one day being an actress. I genuinely believed that I was going to be in Hollywood among all the celebs, glitter and glamour. But like smoke, my fantasy vanished. I gave up on everything, the ambition dwindled; it was unimportant, like a cigarette butt flicked into the gutter. It wasn’t just my aspirations that faded away. I gave up on a lot of things so easily after my dad died. For years, a typical week for me consisted of dance class, gymnastics, karate, ballet, swimming and piano. It didn’t take very long to lose interest in them all – things that I had previously loved doing. Loss didn’t faze me anymore. I was hurt, of course, but my eyes had been opened. My childhood had been shortened and swept away, and replaced with the harsh realities of what seemed to be the adult world. I liked this. It felt like I had a head start over my friends on what real life was like. Time had been wasted on fairy-tale books and toys, and although

that is the right one for you. Distracting yourself is important. You need to occupy your mind. There is no one way to cope with it. It’s different for everyone, and it is difficult no matter what you do. But, as time passes, your pain will lessen. Losing my dad was excruciating. A lot changed from that point, especially my family and the way I viewed the world. We were all deeply affected and a cloud of gloom descended on the house. In spite of this disaster that bulldozed me I am now resurrected as a mature young woman, with a running start on the world. The glittery fantasyland gibberish from my childhood has long since gone, and I’ve become a confident person who is looking forward to what the world has to offer. Reality, even if it meant losing my dad, is better than any fairytale. In the thunderous cloud of my father dying, I found my silver lining.

TOMBO Serwaa Appiah is all mouth and trousers Imagine being called ‘he-she’ or ‘man beast’ when you walk into a room, or being told you resemble a rugby player. Not nice I know, but I get this all the time at school, and sometimes even at home. I try and brush off the comments, and convince myself that people are just ignorant. But there’s only so much one person can take before teasing and negative comments affect them. When my friends sit and talk about what dresses they have, the conversation always turns to me and I hear the same line - ‘I’ve never seen you in a skirt’. I’m usually standing right in front of them wearing my school skirt when they say

a billionaire. I admit I’m not a ‘girly girl’, but that doesn’t make me masculine, I’m still a female! It’s just that I don’t find spending half an hour painting my face with foundation and mascara fun. The worst thing is that people are never satisfied when I say that I’m comfortable in what I wear, and I do sports to keep healthy. People feel the need to speculate on whether I’m either gay or unhappy being female. In this day and age why is it we still believe that a woman who doesn’t fit the usual feminine stereotype obviously wants to be a man? It’s ridiculous. There are many celebrities that

I admit I’m not a ‘girly girl’, but that doesn’t make me masculine, I’m still a female! this by the way! Apparently it doesn’t count, as I have to wear it. So, picture a girl who loves trousers, doesn’t wear makeup and enjoys sports. You’re probably thinking ‘tomboy’. A ‘tomboy’ is defined in the dictionary as ‘a girl who shows the characteristics and/or behaviors of a boy, including taking part in sports and physical activities’. Some people think it is wrong for girls to be involved in activities typically considered masculine, but why is that? We are all taught to believe in equality, that women should be able to do whatever men do. Yet when a female is involved in sports or doesn’t feel the need to dress up and put make up on, she gets criticised and is seen as odd. If I had a pound for every time someone asked me why I don’t dress girlier I’d be 18

are seen as tomboys such as Missy Elliot, and Mel C from the Spice Girls. Rumours about Missy Elliott’s sexual orientation began circulating after an alleged relationship with RnB artist Tweet. Elliott responded to the rumours by saying, “When people see how strong I am, and there’s not a man around, it’s like, ‘What is she doing?’ But I don’t need a man to make me happy. I need to make myself happy first.” Missy Elliot, Mel C and I, we just wear what we feel comfortable in. No one likes being stereotyped, yet we often do it ourselves. People should realise that the way you dress doesn’t define who you are. We should remember that when the clothes are taken away, you’re left with a human being who

For advice on this or any other issue see the list of local services in the directory on p23

OYGIRL Serwaa

has thoughts and feelings like everyone else. And they can be hurt even by the smallest comments. The next time you wonder why someone doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dress or act the way you might expect, first ask yourself this:

If we were all made to act and dress the same way, why were we given separate identities, features and thoughts? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure if we were all the same, life would be very different, and not in a positive way.

what’s By Ria Hayles and Guldem Masa

DO YOU LOVE EXPOSURE? I DO I Do Ideas - a project set up by The Young Foundation - is designed to provide funding opportunities for young people all over England to make the world a better place. Five of Exposure’s very own young volunteers had ideas of their own. They all applied, and all of them were successful! They managed to raise £4,700 between them, which will pay for projects that will benefit the community. And it wasn’t just a case of writing a letter asking for the money (as it sometimes is with fundraising); each youngster had to pitch their idea to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ type panel of young people who then made a decision on who gets the money. Over the next few months our fellow Exposure youngsters will be working on the projects that range from homelessness, and the care system to drugs and the law. Keep an eye out in future issues of the Exposure magazine to see how they get on. If you feel you could benefit from being involved in Exposure, or you have an idea for a project of your own call 020 8883 0260 to speak to someone friendly.

Ria

Guldem

RADIO GA GA Soak the airwaves with Splash Radio. This is your opportunity to gain first hand experience and training in running a radio show. Splash Radio will give you an opportunity to learn how to present a show, get an introduction in radio production (thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to it than twiddling some knobs) and learn how to be a voice over artist.

It works on a first come first served basis, so if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss out on this brilliant opportunity get in contact with either Akin on 07870 157 613 or Evsen on 020 8885 5855.

PEACE OUT! Over 18? Are you passionate about making a difference?

Do you a have positive

attitude towards achieving your goals? Are you a leader amongst you peers? Then you could be a Young Peace Champion! Young Peace Champions is a youth mentoring and leadership programme that will broaden your horizons and offer you a wide variety of unique opportunities. You have to commit to donating 20 weeks of your time, and you will be volunteering at a number of local projects during Peace Week. In return, in addition to gaining invaluable experience, you will also achieve an accreditation that takes into account your personal needs and level of education. You will be able to influence a number of issues that concern young people and increase your employability! If you are interested in Young Peace Champions visit www.youngpeacecham-

pions.org for more details. 21

Tamara

DADDY Daddy I didn’t mean to hurt you, But daddy you hurt me too, You’re supposed to protect me from the bad, Wipe my tears when I’m sad, Give me the life you never had, But instead you exposed me to the worst, Sex, drugs, violence, hurt, How do you think that made me feel? I grew up to believe I was ill, But I was really fine, Don’t understand why I had to hide, Alone in my room I sit and cry, I wonder how I’m still alive, But one thing dad, you taught me well, You taught me how to bear the hell, So all you see of me is fake. Wishing this be the last day, So at night I stare and lay, Hoping I won’t ever wake.

If you would like to see your poem published, please send it to editor@exposure.org.uk or post it to the address on page 2

Markfield Project Inclusive services for disabled and non-disabled young people Markfield Road, Tottenham 020 8800 4134

Hearthstone For people experiencing domestic violence 020 8888 5362 Victim Support Haringey Working for victims of crime 020 8888 9878 www.vslondon.org

In-Volve For young people with drug or alcohol issues 020 8493 8525 www.in-volve.org.uk Cosmic For the families of people with drug or alcohol issues 0800 38905257 www.haga.co.uk/children-andfamily.html

VOLUNTEERING

For lesbian bisexual and questioning women aged 25 & under. www.girldiva.org.uk

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme of personal development 020 8826 9393 BTCV V involved Team National volunteering programme www.btcv.org.uk

EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

www.shharingey.gov.uk Tel: 020 8442 6536 4YP Plus Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic Women Only Clinic - under 20s A confidential walk in service Thursdays 3:30pm-6:30pm Lordship Lane Primary Care Health Centre, 239 Lordship Lane, London N17 6AA 020 8365 5910 4YP Clinic St Ann’s Hospital St Ann’s Road, Tottenham N15 3TH (Walk in clinic) Thursdays 3:30pm-6:30pm 020 8442 6810 4YP nurse mobile : 07943817289 or 07984037172 Teenage Pregnancy and Parenthood Team Jan: 07817 164 4733 Margaret: 07971 309 513 Teenage Fathers Worker Terry: 07980 316 761 Young Mums To Be Course in Tottenham for teenage mums and dads 1 Ashley Road, Tottenham Hale 020 8275 4230 Outzone Confidential information and support for lesbian, gay and bisexual young people www.outzone.org

Girl Diva

DRUGS & ALCOHOL DISABILITIES

Young people’s sexual health services including dedicated clinic, drop-in sessions and the 4YP bus

020 7700 1323 www.facebook.com/firstmove

CRIME/ABUSE

4YP Haringey

First Move For people lesbian, gay, bixual, trans or think they might be.

MENTAL HEALTH

Muswell Hill Area Youth Project Muswell Hill Centre, Muswell Hill, N10 3QJ 020 8883 5855 Bruce Grove Area Youth Project 10 Bruce Grove, Tottenham 020 3224 1089 Wood Green Area Youth Project White Hart Lane Community Sports Centre 020 8489 8942 Broadwater Youth Club Structured sport-based programme Broadwater Community Centre, Tottenham 07870 15 7612

HOUSING

SEXUAL HEALTH &RELATIONSHIPS

YOUTH CLUBS