DEALS • CAREERS GUIDANCE • ARTWORK • FEATURES • GIGS • REP DIRECTORY
Produced for students, by students • Issue 1 • December 2012
Insider housing hints Dragons Den Couchsurfing
I’m FREE
december2012
Hello You! Hi guys, welcome to first edition of Forum! Everything you see inside this magazine has been produced by students in the Welsh Capital. It’s been a long and exciting journey getting this first edition out to you and we’d like to thank everyone who’s been involved in the magazine. We’ve been staggered by the amazing response we’ve had from everyone. It’s not just articles we’re after; send us your photos, artwork, reviews or anything that takes your fancy! For your chance to feature in future issues or to learn more about how you can get involved please email us at: editor@forumcardiff.co.uk A special thank you to Tucker (Salisbury Road) & Costa Coffee (Park Place) where you can always find a copy of Forum.
4 This month...
18 Arts
9 Music & Gigs
20 Eat me
The latest happenings in the Welsh Capital
Django Django & your guide to gigs in the festive month
10 Fashion
Student style & Christmas must-haves
13 Films
Cult classics and upcoming releases
14 Couchsurfing Your introduction to the hospitallity revolution
16 Housing
Helpful hints from a local professional
Forum exhibits two local student artists
Mina gets a grilling & meals on a budget
22 Volunteering
The new way to experience festival?
24 Careers
Top tips from Ernst & Young and Dupsy Abiola
28 Deal with it
This months best student offers in Cardiff
31 Rep Directory
Tickets on demand for the best club nights in town
www.forumcardiff.co.uk • twitter@forumcardiff • facebook.com/forummagcardiff
Introducing... CFQ
Recently opened on Womanby Street in an old converted cinema, Cardiff Fashion Quarter has all the right ingredients to become Cardiffs’ latest cultural hive. Run and organised by local creatives this ‘hip hub’ is home to an assortment of avantgarde stalls ranging from vintage clothing from locally renowned ‘Kooki Two Bit’, to an exclusive selection of hand crafted jewellery. Throw in some reclaimed furniture from ‘Daisy Green’ and you’re in vintage paradise. Not just another shopping space, the quarter boasts an in house cafe run by local business ‘Full moon’, as well as a designated art space for upcoming artists to display their work. Owner Rick is also hoping to host live music nights in the coming months. Open from 10am-7pm, 7 days a week the fashion quarter is the perfect playground for fledgling designers and experienced fashionista’s alike and with Christmas round the corner its well worth a browse. JH
Thanks MTV
Katie Sands
Given the success of reality entertainment shows TOWIE and Geordie Shore, it was only a matter of time before the Welsh version, ‘The Valleys’, was on the cards. That said, when plans for a reality show following Welsh youngsters around the city of Cardiff trying to ‘make it’ were announced, I, along with many others, did not anticipate the first screening. Being from the Valleys area myself (the regional area known for the coal industry north of Cardiff, not Swansea and Port Talbot where some of the participants are from), I was concerned how these youngsters would represent where I come from. Even after the first episode, I could safely say that my concerns were necessary. The promotion surrounding the show asked “Will they make it in Cardiff?” How nice of the producers to suggest that no dream, wish or ambition can be achieved if one were to remain in the Valleys and not go in search of the bright lights of the capital city. I very much doubt that this series will have a positive impact on South Wales,
How nice of the producers to suggest that no dream, wish or ambition can be achieved if one were to remain in the Valleys 4
in terms of the perception of the people and of the life it offers. Young people are portrayed as being obsessed with nudity, sex, and getting drunk. The only thing likely to benefit is Glam Nightclub’s profits, with the show insinuating that this club is the hot-spot of Cardiff. Millie Collins, a Law student at Cardiff University, said: “I don’t think a reality show can convey what a place is truly like. I think a show like ‘The Valleys’ can only give a negative impression of Cardiff. It makes the audience think that all people from South Wales are like the characters in the show.” Joanne Robinson, a waitress in Cardiff, said: “For entertainment value, I quite like the show, although I am aware that not everyone from Cardiff or the Valleys behaves like that. I assume that the audience from the rest of Britain know this too.” I would like to congratulate MTV for facilitating a show that wipes South Wales’ history, true cultural identity and takes the Welsh traits to a point of parody.
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Winter Wonderland This year, on the 22nd November, the magical Winter Wonderland returned to Cardiff. Open for 6 weeks on the City Hall Lawn, the festivities and family fun invites the whole of Cardiff and surrounding area to get into the Christmas spirit. I find that there’s nothing like wrapping up warm and absorbing the Christmas atmosphere, whilst warming your hands on a glass of mulled wine. Alternatively, if you’re feeling more playful, you can always go ice skating, but I would not recommend mixing the two! This year sees a refurbished Ice Café Bar, where you can enjoy the new menu of traditional Welsh produce and hot or cold refreshments. For 360 degree panoramic views, therWe will also be The Star Ride, a 60 metre high, spinning chair! I find that Cardiff really comes alive at Christmas and the Winter Wonderland is a great place to soak up the friendly atmosphere. Last year, I found as many excuses as possible to go with both friends and family, not just to make the most of the attractions but to wander round and enjoy the city. For me, it’s all about the lights, mulled wine and a bratwurst, in my cosiest of coats! Most importantly, the Winter Wonderland is a great place to enjoy the positive side of Christmas and forget about the stresses of all that shopping for food and
gifts. Open from 15th November and brimming with handmade food and festive treats, the charming Cardiff Christmas market will have you spoilt for choice! To help, I have devised a list of a few thoughtful stocking fillers from the market that may tick a few boxes. Perfect for the parents, there is a fantastic cheese stall that offers great deals. They sell both the classics and more modern, exotic cheeses that are equally as delicious. The stall operates on a ‘try before you buy’ basis so you can be sure to pick the perfect selection for the person in mind. To either accompany the cheese, or on its own, there is a delightful wine stall. This would be a good gift for your grandparents or maybe parents of a boyfriend/ girlfriend. At the stall, they let you put together your own gift box and have a little taste yourself.
...beautiful handmade scarfs and pashminas that will always come in handy in Wales! For the joker in your family, there are some very funny novelty door hangers. The hooks are to be fastened onto the back of your door and are in the shape of the male and female form…let’s just say they took advantage of certain assets to hang your coat on!
Photography by Nick Russill
For the girls- sisters, mums, cousins or girlfriends -there are a few vibrant jewellery stalls which I’m sure would cater for every taste and occasion. There are also beautiful handmade scarfs and pashminas that will always come in handy in Wales! I hope you to wish
are all as excited as I am and would like you all a happy Christmas! Emma-Louise Pritchard
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LOOKING FOR A HOUSE OR FLAT? 4let have some great properties available in Cathays & Roath, from one bedroom flats to eleven bedroom houses. We are here to help you find the best accommodation possible for next academic year, and look forward to hearing from you. 029 2066 5270 / 029 2066 5283 Check out our new website! www.4let.co.uk Email us to arrange a viewing info@4let.co.uk
Mina
Lebanese Cuisine
Salisbury Road
BARBERS Est ‘1995
Traditional scissor cutting & clipper work Walk in appointments Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 9am - 4pm
43 Crwys Rd, Cardiff 02920 235 212 07763491937
MinaRestaurant.co.uk
High quallity service for competitive prices
13a Salisbury Rd
Tues 4th Dec Jazz at Christmas – Cardiff University Jazz Society brings you an evening of jazz infused Christmas songs! 7.30pm, £4/£2 students/Free for Jazz Soc members Talybont Social Centre - Bevan Place, Cardiff CF14 3UX Thurs 6th Dec No Sweat: Lach - An acoustic wonderland: Folk, Country, Americana and all things acoustic provided by No Sweat. 8pm, Free Entry Full Moon Bar - Womanby Street, Cardiff, CF10 1BR Sat 8th Dec See Monkey Do Monkey: The Keys/ Howl/Coral DJs After something of a live hiatus, Cardiff’s much lauded psych-rock sons “The Keys” return to the stage to do what they do so well. 8pm, £6 Clwb Ifor Bach – 11 Womanby Street, Cardiff, CF10 1BR Mon 10th Dec Bobby Kaner’s NewBlood – Playing a range of music from Youngblood Brass Band to Jay-Z these 8 musicians are a breath of fresh funky air in the local music scene. 8pm, £2 Gwdihw – Churchill Way, Cardiff, CF10 2HJ
Music & Gigs Jack Pickering
Who are Django Django?
I recently went to see Django Django at Cardiff University Students Union, and not having heard much of their first album before, was in for a real treat. This band have been growing quickly in popularity since their self titled debut album in January, playing at festivals and headlining venues across the UK; in fact, they’ve been nominated for the Mercury Music Prize this year. It’s easy to see why as I don’t think I’ve heard anything quite like them. Combining African rhythms, hyperactive synths, quirky percussion and catchy vocals sounds like a tall order but they manage it, and actually come out better live than in recordings. At risk of sounding like an excited child, I think they deserve a chance at the Mercury Prize through their sheer originality. Django Django’s independent and unique approach to music seems similar to that of the progressive rock movement. This movement, much maligned for the self-indulgence of the artists, is enjoying something of a renaissance through bands like Muse and Radiohead. Fiercely independent attitudes have been revitalised after a decade of increasingly bland and homogenized “indie” music. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good soft rock anthem as much as the next guy, but in my opinion the days of innovative “indie” bands are behind us. Django Django in one way are characteristic of the way artists are increasingly lifting sounds (particularly synths) from past decades, but the way you struggle to fit them into one of current genres suggests they may be something entirely new in music. The true test of this will be whether they can pull off the notoriously difficult second album, without losing the balance between originality and accessibility.
Sun 16th Dec Tues 11th Dec The Hop - Classic Tracks, Indie, Folk, New & Party Tunes. Live Bands, All Day Globe Unsigned – Live talent Hangover Breakfasts & Sunday Roasts, Cocktails, late night beer garden & a showcase hosted by Krystal Mills hand-written excuse from lectures the next day! 7.30pm, £5 adv 7.30pm, Free Entry The Globe – 125 Albany Road, Cardiff, Buffalo Bar - 11 Windsor Place, Cardiff, CF10 3BY CF24 3NS Sat 22nd Dec Wed 12th Dec Monster Christmas Market - Not quite a gig but we don’t care. A crafts/ WOMP: Ed Solo – Ed Solo headlines vintage/steampunk market in aid of Alzheimer’s Research. Enjoy the a wicked night with a fresh mix of Christmas market atmosphere with some great live music throughout the styles from electro swing to jungle! day: handmade jewellery, bottled curiosities, knitted goods, cakes, arts & 10pm, £3/£2 members crafts and more! Perfect for that unique Christmas gift! The Moon Club – Womanby Street, 12pm-5pm, £1 entry Cardiff, CF10 1BR 10 Feet Tall - 11a -12 Church St, Cardiff, CF10 1BG OR 9
Forum Fashion Jessica Hallas
Forums’ fashion columnist has been out hunting down the best dressed students the ‘Diff has to offer.
Britt - Left - A casual look for a day at university, Britt mixes high street with small boutiques for a quirky winter outfit. You cannot go wrong with owning a pair of black biker boots, laughing she tells me ‘they’re from eBay!’ here paired with statement peace leggings from Punkyfish. The black jumper is a one off buy from London’s Camden market, and underneath the only high street buy – a photo print vest top from Topshop. Alex - Right- Here Alex is a prime example that simplicity is indeed stylish. The cream blouse is from Forever 21. She also wears black skinny jeans from Topshop, sticking to a block colour she compliments the cream blouse, allowing the subtle lace on the shoulders to stand out. The beige bag is brand Ted Baker. Alex wears ash coloured Toms on her feet- a charitable cause which gives a child in need a pair of shoes for every pair of Toms purchased. Alex’s outfit is a mixture of block colours for a sophisticated and fashionable look.
Think your friends deserve to be in Forum Fashion? Send your best (or worst!) dressed photos to editor@forumcardiff.co.uk
For Christmas I want... With Christmas around the corner, I think it’s about time to get those vital clothing ideas down on the list for Mr Claus.
At the top of the list for me is a trouser suit. I’ve been coveting one for months. Wear them together and look super suave and bold, or separate for a dressed down acceptable for lectures kind of look. Oasis are doing an incredible navy velvet suit, however after much research and many many e-mails, it’s still not out in shops, (even after the promise of it being out in October), so keep your eyes peeled, it is amazing. It’s warm, fashionable, simple, and can be worn in so many ways. It’s a must. In the meantime, this peacock feather outfit from River Island will have to do; its equally as fabulous.
Hats. Massive crush on hats at the moment, especially smart or fur ones. It’s a great way to keep warm and not just look like another mass of wool all season.
Next, embellishment. Anything embellished and the more the better. Decadent, ostentatious and over-the-top decoration is the way forward this Christmas. Topshop and Asos are great for finding these little gems at the moment. Get layering it as well, the bolder the better. Metallics have always been synonymous with Christmas festivities, and are an essential for any Christmas party.
Esha Glen 11
THE FALAFEL CAFE fresh, home made food
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Falafel, Sabich, Schnitzel, Green Omlette All served in a pitta with houmous & salad £4.00 each
Meal Deal Any main + drink +cookie/brownie £5.00* Any main + drink + baklava £5.30*
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Wednesday Evening Special Shawarma, houmous, chips & salad £6.50 (served on a plate) Bring your own wine! 10% may only be redeemed once, per person, per magazine*Drinks include cans or bottled water.
Films not to miss
Life of pi 20/12/12 An adaptation of Yann Martel’s acclaimed Booker Prize winner which tells the tale of Pi Patel (Maguire) who after a freak accident is left adrift at sea on a small lifeboat with a zebra, a hyena, an orangutan and a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. A must see. Cirque du soleil- Worlds Away 3D 21/12/12 Inspired by the unique creative universe of Cirque du Soleil, the film is based on the following
The HobbitAn Unexpected Journey 14/12/12 Prequel to Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Jackson takes on the role of director once more but this time is accompanied by Guillermo del Toro as co-writer. With numerous actors from the LOTR trilogy reprising their roles, including Ian McKellen as Gandalf and Andy Serkis as Gollum, the series promises not to disappoint and we cannot wait for the first instalment. JH premise: “There are worlds beyond dreams, illusion and imagination, where human beings are capable of anything”. James Cameron stunned audiences around the globe with his beautifully devised motion picture Avatar. Worlds Away sees him wield his 3D fusion camera once more, capturing some of the world’s finest contemporary circus acts as the film questions the limits of reality.
One you may have missed: Leon
Leon embodies a tale of thrilling crime juxtaposed by the unlikely and unusual bond formed when a 12-year-old girl, Mathilda (Natalie Portman) and her hit-man neighbour, Leon (Jean Reno) seek revenge together. This story of vengeful pure love is set against the back drop of the urban metropolis of modern day New York where Mathilda loses her family in a raid led by the deranged detective Norman Stansfield (Gary Oldman). Leon is of a reclusive childlike nature with his only companion being his
pampered house plant and his gun. However when Mathilda comes seeking his expertise in violence he is forced to blossom into a father-like figure. Their bond stems from timewarped roles in that as a young girl corrupted by society’s ills, Mathilda has the demeanor and profane language of an adult whereas Leon’s mature appearance and occupation are detached and unrelated
to his emotions. Director Luc Besson cultivates an audiences’ vision of genres by producing a darkly humorous and stylish interpretation of violent crime and leaves the viewer eternally wondering if the love between Mathilda and Leon was just paternal? Chloe Sideserf 13
Couchsurfing The hospitality revolution home for free. Eyebrows immediately rise and “you cannot be serious?!” is the thought that flashes through most people’s minds when I first tell them about it. Yes, these people are complete strangers and they’re willing to let you stay with them for no financial gain or any other expectations.
Everybody loves surfing... Ferrari, Luciano Pavarotti and Balsamic vinegar all come from Modena. This and the very little information on the town’s Wikipedia page was enough for me to decide to quit my waitressing job in an Italian restaurant in Glasgow and accept a job offer in Italy itself. However, perhaps I should have done a little more research. As it turns out, I had moved from a wee suburb in Scotland to a small suburb in Italy - hardly the basis for an exciting year abroad! After a couple of weeks trying to make friends with my appalling Italian
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language skills and a couple of tearful Skype conversations to my friends and family back home, I felt like I had made a terrible mistake and was going to pass a very boring, lonely year abroad. And then I discovered Couchsurfing.
Not only is it an economical way to travel but it enables you to gain an authentic insight into the culture of locals in the area you’re travelling through; an experience which is impossible to replicate as a tourist staying in hotels or hostels. Your hosts will give you valuable information and insider knowledge on things to do and see. From pointing you towards the hidden historical sites off the beaten tourist track to helping find the best bars and nightclubs, you can exchange knowledge and stories from your own culture and experiences with your hosts.
In case you haven’t heard of it But if you’re not feeling quite so already, I’ll explain the basics. adventurous or remain uncertain Couchsurfing is an online about having strangers in your community of people across home, you can still participate in the the globe aiming to meet and Couchsurfing experience. Respond interact with others from different to the question on your profile backgrounds and cultures, whether “Can you host?” with “Not right they live in the same area or are now but I can hang out!” just passing through. and this tells other “these couchsurfers that people The premise of you’re looking to are complete Couchsurfing was to meet new people strangers and create a global network living in your they’re willing of people who enjoy area or are willing to let you stay travelling and are willing with them for no to meet up with to host travellers in their financial gain” those travelling
“The site has roughly 4 million members now and has recently accepted $7.6 million in investment“
8 years since it’s foundation, Couchsurfing has developed into so much more than just a website for adventurous travellers. The site has roughly 4 million members now and has recently accepted $7.6 million in investment. Couchsurfing.org has evolved from a non-profit organisation to a Benefit Corporation, which are required by law to create general benefits for society as well as for shareholders. I very much hope that this will help the Couchsurfing network to grow and give more people the opportunity to participate in this unique travelling experience.
I met lots of different people for coffee but those I got on best with became better friends and through them I met their friends and so on. Within a very short space of time we became a close and diverse group - a typical night in the local pizzeria included people from Ireland, France, Italy, the UK, America, and Holland. Not only can you arrange to meet other couchsurfers for a drink, but you can organise or promote activities or events. One other feature of the website which really helps to connect people with similar interests is the Group section which is full of online discussions providing a platform for the exchange of ideas, languages, passions and hobbies.
Now that I’ve moved to Cardiff to study my masters I have once again started using Couchsurfing to meet local young people and it’s proving to be as great as it was in Italy.
Couchsurfing, it must be stressed, is not a dating website and should not be used as such. But it is undeniable that most couchsurfers Laura McLean
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Tips
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Without having the convenience of the students’ union at university, meeting other young people in small town Modena was rather challenging but using Couchsurfing’s “hang out” function I met some fantastic and interesting people that I hope will remain my friends for years to come.
h f or t
are warm and welcoming people who share a common interest in learning about other cultures, so naturally strong friendships and even relationships form. I travelled to Turin for a jazz festival and couchsurfed with three of my friends. Our host, kind enough to host four of us, was a student living in the city centre. He met us after the concert finished, briefly took us around the city then to one of his favourite bars to meet his friends and a few other couchsurfers. 9 shots of vodka and 6 months later we’re still together. So Couchsurfing has certainly been an interesting experience for me!
through to offer invaluable local knowledge.
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ng cou
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Put a lot of effort into your profile This will help your host to understand a little bit about you before welcoming you into their home and will let people see if they share common interests with you
Read your host’s profile and reviews carefully After each stay surfers review their hosts so reading these will help you to gauge a little bit about them and help you decide whether to stay with them or not be the best guest you can be - this will help you gain positive reviews and have a more positive overall experience, perhaps try cooking a traditional meal from your country or bringing a small token gift
Send personal surfing requests People are more likely to host you if you’re polite, friendly and you’re interested in them
There is safety in numbers It’s always best to travel with a friend •
info: www.couchsurfing.org 15
Helpful Housing Hints With Kash, from 2Let2
What’s your budget? The rent payable should reflect the property standard, its features and location. It is important to make sure you don’t end up paying too much. A good way to avoid this pitfall is to compare properties across a few different agents or landlords. You must remember rent does not always include your bills and you must budget for gas, electric, water and your day to day living needs. If your rent is too high you may struggle and get into unnecessary debt.
What is a bond? A bond or deposit is a sum of money which is held against damage to the property, rent/utility arrears, any essential cleaning, removal of large amounts of rubbish and the cost of replacing any locks or keys if not returned on time. Whenever you pay your bond your landlord or agent must protect it using a government authorised tenancy deposit scheme. Deductions cannot be made for reasonable wear and tear to the property. Always pay your bond by cheque and get a receipt showing the amount and what it covers. The bond is normally equivalent to one month’s rent plus £50.00 per person paid at the contract signing but may vary depending on the landlord. To ensure that you have a fair end of year assessment, make sure you complete a thorough inventory and take pictures when you first move in.
2let2 cardiff letting agents
2let2 are a Cardiff based letting agents offering high quality student and professional houses in prime locations. We can help guide you through the stressful house hunting period and make the search for your ideal home an easy and enjoyable one. We offer great low rental prices without compromising on quality. Pop in to the office for a chat or log onto www.2let2.com to see how we can help you. 16
Before you go out and look at properties decide on a maximum rent that is suitable for all of the members of the group.
Agency Fees, why? Agency fees are a sum of money that all tenants going through a letting agency will have to pay. The price of agency fees varies according to each individual agency, you can expect to pay around £80-£100. This money will normally cover the administration fees. Be aware most agency fees are non-refundable so be sure that you are making the right decision and you get a receipt for any fees paid. Private landlords may not charge a fee but your choice of houses may be limited.
When should I start looking?
Be cautious of landlords or letting agents who claim to be members of associations that are not recognised or do not have the correct criteria to protect the tenants.
A lot of articles will tell you that the house hunting season doesn’t start till after Christmas however from previous experience we can tell you that’s definitely not the case. The early demand for high quality houses has been rapidly increasing year by year. Our suggestion to you is that if you have confirmed; how many people you want to live with? What type of accommodation you want? What your budget is? Which location you and your friends want? Then get the ball rolling! There’s no harm in looking early to get exactly what you’re looking for.
What’s all this paperwork? Once you have reserved your property you will normally be asked to provide certain documents before you are permitted to sign the tenancy agreement. Most landlords and agents will request a guarantor and a reference from your previous accommodation provider. Student contracts normally last 12 months however some landlords offer discounts over the summer months. If there is more than one person renting the property the contract tends to bind all tenants together under one document. The rent and the deposit amount will be stated on the contract along with terms relating to the protection of the deposit. Most agents and landlords will protect the deposit at the contract signing and provide you with information on which scheme the deposit is protected with.
What should I look for in an agency? Choosing the right letting agency is very important. In order to make the right choice you must know what to look for, always go for a wellestablished agency that is part of an association. A local association set up to encourage best practice and improve the housing standards in Cardiff is ALMA (Association of Lettings and Management Agents). Members of this association will offer a professional approach to helping you find a suitable property to rent. Members have to meet the strict criteria set out by the association which includes membership to nationally recognised associations like ARLA, NALS and NAEA. 17
James Keith Daniel Background, left page & front cover
“There are many different styles of art and design that I love to explore and I thoroughly enjoy experimenting with an eclectic mix of styles from a number of artists and designers. Be it painting or collages I draw on my own knowledge and inspirations to ultimately create something original with an imaginative and unique narrative. My biggest artistic influences would be the work of Rauschenberg, various fashion photographers, I am greatly inspired by the aesthetic of derelict billboards and enjoy studying symbolism and semiotics.”
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“I’ll be honest that its mostly just words...”
Caroline Vaughn Photography
Caroline Vaughn is an English Literature student at Cardiff University and an amateur photographer. She started taking pictures at the age of 17 and is passionate about macro photography, landscapes and street photography. She aims to capture special moments and show the beauty of recognisable objects from a different angle. Caroline loves spending time walking the street whilst observing and taking pictures of details, discovering the unexpected. Her aim is to show the humour in everyday life, the little things we so often forget to look at. Photography for her, is a way of rediscovering the world.
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Mina gets the once over by Forum Food Ranked in the top 10 of restaurants in Cardiff on Trip Advisor, Mina Restaurant lives up to its excellent reputation. Mina first established itself as a cafĂŠ, the first of which that appeared on Crwys Road, and has developed into an authentic, family-run restaurant. Mina fades into the array of shops and restaurants that surround it, but inside it is not difficult to imagine yourself dining in a restaurant in the Mediterranean. The dĂŠcor exhibiting the array of drapes and bamboo-styled roofing along with the cocktail bar contributes significantly to the Mediterranean theme.
Mina offers Lebanese cuisine which centres around salads, humus and grilled meats. Mina also caters for vegetarians, offering fresh dishes such as spiced couscous and stuffed vine leaves. The dishes are both fresh and original. I would recommend the pitta bread strips and khyar bi laban, which is a beautifully presented starter. It is home-made yoghurt mixed with cucumber, enriched by flavours of mint and garlic, and served in a lettuce casing. 20
The hummus is also definitely worth trying. Most of the main courses are complemented by rice and chargrilled vegetables. The most popular dish, Mashwi Mwshakal, is a great choice. It is a combination of tender meats served with salad, grilled vegetables and rice. Mina may lean towards the upper end of the student budget, with mains averaging around £12, but the quality of the food definitely justifies these prices. Mina boasts a lively atmosphere with the bustle of conversations and Arabic music in the background. It is ideal for couples and large groups of friends. The staff are helpful and welcoming and were willing to recommend popular dishes that surpass expectations. The service was overall excellent with the waiters helpful, attentive and friendly. I would certainly recommend Mina Restaurant to all. www.minarestaurant.co.uk
Too long; Didn’t read: Crwys Road £12/head
£
Ben Smith
8 / 10
Supertramp A student with too much time and not enough money. You may wonder what authority I have to be dishing out advice to students about eating well. I’m only in second year. I’m not studying anything remotely related to cookery (Literature) and I am by no means a nutritionist. So why am I telling you to eat chickpeas, bake bread and home-cook?
Simple Spiced Chickpeas For those who are allergic to cooking, this could not be easier (or cheaper). Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Drain one can of chickpeas and rinse, then mix with a seasoning of your choice. This could be anything your fancy; Mexican, Jerk, curry powder, BBQ, or simply salt and pepper. Buy these pre-made or make them yourself – there are loads of spice mix recipes online. Drizzle a baking tray lightly with olive oil and spread out the chickpeas. Bake for 10-15 minutes and serve.
Money.
If there is one thing I know how to do, it is frugality. If I can spend less money on groceries, I can spend more on eating out, going out, and not dropping out. It is too often that students sacrifice their education because of money. If you have buckets of cash, by all means enjoy it. But the chances are that you don’t (or won’t for very much longer). The good news is that getting it right is easy. My little life-saver this month is the chickpea; low fat, low cost, high protein. Small changes to your shopping habits can make a huge difference to your budget - in Lidl they are 26p for a tin. With a few herbs and spices they can become a student super-snack:
For more tips, check out the Super Tramp blog at: supertrampstudent.blogspot.co.uk Amy Murnan 21
Volunteering
The new way to experience festivals? Sprinting marathons for the deprived, clambering up mountains to lighten the weight of poverty or wearing fancy dress every day for the good of society… No? No I’m not either. In order to try and shake away some of my guilt and contribute in a positive way to society, I spent October of this year volunteering for two different music festivals in Cardiff. The first of these events was Oxjam, Oxfam’s month-long music festival. Throughout October, a number of cities around the UK play host to hundreds of local bands, all working towards a common charitable goal. The first of these festivals took place in 2006, since then Oxjam has raised over £1.75 million which goes directly to those in need of support. Arriving on a crisp Sunday morning, I wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never worked with Oxfam before. Immediately propelled into a florescent pink t-shirt (probably not my colour), I was adorned with posters, balloons and other such decoration to begin dressing the venues for an evening of live music. Once Undertone and Clwb Ifor Bach were sufficiently overwhelmed by my creativity (lack of creativity) I charged back to HQ for my next task. Soon, I found myself parading the streets of Cardiff talking to the public about Oxjam and taking appreciated donations. This rewarding process was made all better by the circus act accompanying us, hoola hooping their way through the city streets.
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Want to get involved? It was a frantic day of preparation but certainly worth it. Leaving with a sense of self-achievement, I felt as if I’d really worked for a perfect night watching numerous local talents, notably Palomino Party who stormed The Moon Club. The second volunteer project that I worked on was Swn Festival. Working for the four-day event last year, it would have taken an apocalypse to keep me from contributing in 2012. Swn champions local talent as well as established bands from around the UK to bring together some of the most talented musicians in Britain. This year welcomed such bands as The Cribs, Django Django, The Blackout and Dry the River. Spread across 17 venues, a lot of work must be invested into the festival by a sizable group of eager volunteers. For those passionate about music it is evident that participating in Swn festival has plenty of rewarding moments (notably a private Cribs gig which I will never lose my memory of). Prior to the musical rewards, a lot of work was necessary. Despite the long hours and continued labour required, it rarely felt like work in its traditional sense. It was an invaluable experience, working with a group of people entirely in love with music (don’t get me wrong- more than 1 t-shirt over the weekend was absolutely necessary). Duties included flyering, sorting out bands’ equipment and riders, guiding performers around the venues and donning a really pretty neon jacket to control the traffic… Once the intense four-day whirlwind drew to a close, the volunteers were treated to the infamous closing night of Dim Swn. Ending at around 7am and marked by a human pyramid on Womanby Street, Dim Swn invites volunteers, wristband holders and bands to celebrate the end of another successful year. If there is anyone who can show everyone else how this should be done it’s the bands. Trying to tear Peace away from their favourite activity of surfing across beer-spilt tabletops signified that my work was not quite yet complete… October 2012 was probably the best month I’ve had in my three years of university. Every exciting moment was entirely constructed from volunteer work which speaks volumes for its value. I would forever recommend either festival to anyone with a desire to work in this field or with a simple passion for incredible music.
Oxjam is Oxfam’s month long music festival. It runs all through October with hundreds of events around the UK. It’s all organised by people like you. People who know and love their local music scene, and who want to put on brilliant events to raise money for Oxfam. Oxjam events are what YOU make them. Big or small, street corner or concert hall, you don’t have to be a professional event organiser to put on an amazing show. The beauty of Oxjam is the diversity of events in the line-up. If it’s your first time, Oxjam is a great way to gain music or events experience. This website has all you need to know about running an unforgettable event. It’s your first point of call for inspiration, training from industry experts and step-by-step guides to pulling off something amazing. However, you don’t have to organise an event to get involved with Oxjam, you could attend an event, play/sing/whistle at an event or volunteer at an event. With gigs nationwide every October, there are so many ways to get involved; don’t miss out! www.oxfam.org.uk/oxjam
Charlotte Dyer 23
Careers Zone With Ernst and Young Welcome to the Careers Zone, a monthly focus on key skills that you need to succeed in the graduate recruitment market. This week we take a look at assessment centres, with a key focus on the group exercise. Think about: • Your body language • Making sure you know people’s names • Speaking and Listening • Don’t make throw away comments – everything is being assessed!! Assessment Centres • Think of the day as your first day in the office. What will you do to make an impression on your ‘colleagues?’ • Dress to impress! • Make sure you follow instructions and keep to time • Try to incorporate your own business awareness • Be credible – could we take you to a client meeting tomorrow? Group Exercise A good project group has people that: • Put their point of view across clearly • Listen to and build on other’s points • Able to articulate an argument clearly, and persist if necessary • Work towards the team’s goals
Next Month: Email editor@forumcardiff.co.uk with any questions that you have relating to graduate recruitment. The best question will feature in next month’s edition and will be answered by one of our Partners or graduate recruitment specialists!
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Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Available all day!
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Turning Internships into Opportunities With Dupsy, as seen on Dragons Den.
The news today is filled with horror stories lamenting the plight of students and graduates caught in a vicious cycle. There are more than 70 applicants for every graduate job and more than 1 million young people out of work. It’s the classic catch 22 - “You cannot get a job without experience, but how do you get experience without being offered a job?” Thankfully there is a solution: plan and prepare for your professional career by getting a decent internship. Short-term work placements designed to help you gain experience, internships do not always lead to a permanent job but they can help build confidence and connections or simply confirm whether that career is really the one for you. It is true we live in a world of challenges, choices and economic unrest. However, many smart students and graduates are using the uncertainty of the job market to their advantage, building formidable skillsets at numerous companies that previous generations could only have dreamt about. At Intern Avenue, we have the privilege of being able to analyse data from several thousand interns and employers. Some of the most sought-after candidates have killer profiles that list everything from startups to corporate work experience as well as good academic credentials. After one or two internships these candidates can provide realworld examples of their employability and list specific achievements and competencies. The experience gained during an internship provides them with a broader range of skills which can ultimately allow them to decide where they want to work, which areas they are good at, and even negotiate a higher rate of salary backed by credentials.
Interested? Here is the Intern Avenue quick FIVE step guide to making internships work for you:Be professional - Profile is everything. Make yourself visible - present yourself well both on and off-line. Know your rights - Be careful of your privacy. Make sure you know about NMW and other laws which apply to your position. Do your homework - research the companies and sectors you are interested in working for and be aware of any other options. Practice makes perfect - Rehearse for your interview to help ensure you make the best impression. Give it your all once you land the position. There is no better way to secure amazing feedback and a potential job offer. Finally, join Intern Avenue! Our site helps you create a private professional profile that keeps your data secure but is only available for employers offering paid opportunities.
Dupsy Abiola CEO of Intern Avenue & Intern Laura Gordon
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How can I go further, faster?
5871_EY_FF_Liverpool_FG_105x148.5_AW.indd 2
If you’ve got the drive and ambition to ask, then come and talk to us. Our clients demand people with exceptional skills and knowledge to help them make vital business decisions. That’s why we provide worldclass mentoring, training and professional qualifications to take you from strength to strength. Start a career that goes further, faster: ey.com/uk/careers
We had a great Movember putting this mag together. Hope you enjoyed reading! - The Editors (Not the band, actual editors)
07/09/2012 17:20
Thanks for reaading, see you next month! Editors: Joe Hobbins, Owen Reeves & Paul Thompson Design: PT Events: Dotty Baker Hassan Contributors: Dupsy Abiola, Charlotte Dyer, Esha Glen, Laura Gordon, Jessica Hallas, JH, Emma-Lousie Pritchard, Laura McLean, Amy Murnan, Jack Pickering, OR, Katie Sands, Chloe Sideserf, Ben Smith Photography and Artwork: JH, James Keith- Daniel, Nick Russill, Caroline Vaughn All artwork, photographs and editorials remain the property of the author/s. 30
FORUM MAGAZINE 5 Senghennydd Place, Cardiff CF24 4AF www.forumcardiff.co.uk Enquiries: 07798720317 editor@forumcardiff.co.uk Advertising: 07745223855 advertising@forumcardiff.co.uk Rep directory: repdirectory@forumcardiff.co.uk
p e R The ory t c e r i D
Sick of not getting tickets for the best nights out? Time to use The Rep Directory. The only comprehensive collection of ticket reps for Cardiff
Monday
Thursday
Plus1 @ Tiger Tiger
Thursday Club @ Tiger Tiger
Grant Sugiura-David: 07828985095 Emily Ruth Davies: 07854797191
Becky Price: 07540940285 James Quirke: 07833932420
Tuesday
VIP: Daisy McDowell: 07775968944
Mode @ Revolution VIP: Millie Sophia Pugh: 07790700075 Elisa Beernaert: 07990663477
Wednesday
TNT @ Walkabout
Friday Smack @ SODA VIP: Aidan Kirkwood: 07530266314 Sophie Smiff: 07850542339 Holly Dwyer: 07599717611
Box @ Walkabout VIP: Rhian Huxtable: 07557058789 Josh James: 07860485405
Therapy @ Glam VIP: Stacey Kernaghan: 07718165211
Gossip @ Glam
Rendezvous @ Tiger Tiger
VIP: Nia Kehrein: 07790537264
Grant Sugiura-David: 07828985095 Emily Ruth Davies: 07854797191
WTF Wednesdays @ Retros Grant Sugiura-David: 07828985095 Emily Ruth Davies: 07854797191
Shotgun Rules @ Revolution Email: vip@shotgunrules.tv
Want to get your details listed? Email : repdirectory@forumcardiff.co.uk now!
Pop Bubble Rock @ Bunker Hannah Morgan: 07926053978
Saturday Encore @ Bunker VIP: Harry Jefferson: 07896677790 Ayo Akintunde: 07930227242
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