Verve Magazine - Spring 2019 by London MetSU

STUDENTS’ UNION PULL-OUT Spring Edition! SU ELECTIONS 2019 Results

SU AWARDS 2019

page 18-19

Recognising students and staff for their contributions to the London Met community

Page 20-21

EDITOR’S LETTER

Pa g

By the time you read this, you’re either about to enjoy two weeks off over the Spring holidays, or have just returned to your studies. Before you dig back in, make sure to dive head first into the latest Verve! What has this edition got in store for you?

Features writer Katie Staines asks if social media is making us unsociable on page 5. Read about how Fast Fashion is having an impact on the people behind the scenes on page 6 - you might rethink your spending habits after reading this article by Emilie Warner and Charlotte Hart! London Met’s Cheerleaders have had plenty to cheer about, after taking second place in yet another national competition. They are on this edition’s front cover, so head over to page 8 to read Deputy Editor Emily Wilkinson’s feature about them. Wally Mbassi covers the emotional retirement announced by Andy Murray as he calls time on his illustrious tennis career. If you’re going to miss Andy, turn to page 38 to read Verve’s sports spread.

Aaron Patel Editor-in-Chief 2nd year, Journalism (BA)

As always, we have articles from music journalist Natalya Davies, lifestyle journalist Honey Carlier, and film journalist Pharon El-Nur - and more!

Jamie Bhalla Designer 3rd year, Digital Media (BA)

Aaron

Best,

londonmetsu

I visited children’s hospice Noah’s Ark and found out all about their wonderful new facilities that will be opening soon. They do great work and YOU can volunteer: head over to page 4 to read all about it.

See you next semester!

24 PPAGE ag e

PRESENTERS PROFILES Page 22-23

Pa g www.londonmetsu.org.uk

Contents

ell… just how quickly has this year gone? I do hope you have had a fantastic academic year so far, and that this semester has been kind to you!

From everyone at Verve Magazine, we wish you all the best with your assignments and exams. Make sure you take time to rest and relax while you prepare to finish off this academic year. And if you fancy writing for the next issue, email us at vervemagazine@londonmet.ac.uk.

ACADEMIC ADVICE & GUIDANCE

4. noah’s ark social media

6. the dark side of fast fashion 8. lmu cheerleaders 10. verve cooking corner 12. airbnb for the creative spaces 14. creative writing 15. bro, do you even movies 17. su guide 31. post graduate society 33. diversity 36. student bloomberg visit 38. andy murray

Emily Wilkinson Deputy Editor 2nd year, Photojournalism (BA)

Honey Carlier Lifestyle Journalist 1st year, Human Nutrition (BA)

Wally Mbassi Features Journalist PhD Media Studies

Kimberley Rino-Lightfoot Sub-Editor 2nd year, Journalism (BA)

Syahirah Harun Photojournalist 1st year, Media and Comms (BSc)

Natalya Davies Music Journalist 2nd year, Music Business (BA)

Pharaon El-Nu Film Journalist 1st year, Creative Writing & English Literature (BA)

Emilie Warner Journalist 2nd year, Beauty Marketing & Journalism (BA)

Alec Jones Creative Writer Foundation Year, English Literature & Creative Writing (BA)

Junior Linden Feature Journalist 1st year, Journalism & Media Studies (BA)

Charlotte Hart Journalist 2nd year, Beauty Marketing & Journalism (BA)

Disclaimer: All contributions included in this magazine are those of the writer ONLY and NOT those of London Met Students’ Union or its associated trademarks, websites and services. London MetSU does not necessarily endorse, support, sanction, encourage, verify or agree with any comments, opinions or statements or other content provided by contributors.

NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S HOSPICE A NEW BEGINNING e is a Hospic London ’s n e r d t il r h Ark Ch net, no n with lifer ’s a h B a o in N re d r child itions, y base charit vides care fo miting cond ro ilies. life-li that p g and for their fam ess of in n e t port threa e proc art as sup w in th as well arity are no state-of-the h hich w c e w e Th ject eir n o h r t p g a tin et, 17. comple High Barn ince 20 s in s k y r it o w p with facil in the ught u and n a c e l e e b t ts Pa has y Even Aaron munit find out all Editor m o C t, to ll, the bring Ella To ing Assistan what it will d ais Fundr ject an . he pro the charity t t u o r ab o f future in the

have the Ark we know we can expand and reach more children and families that need our help.” Q: What volunteering opportunities does the charity provide? “We need a lot of volunteers because we are a small charity, we need a lot of fundraisers as we don’t get much funding from the government. Building the hospice cost about £12 million and that’s all from fundraising, so we need volunteers at events to help us collect money.” Q: How can university students get involved?

Q: How long has the project for the new hospice in Barnet taken, from start to finish? “The first brick was laid in March 2017 and we had a big ceremony then for everyone to come down and see the first brick put in the ground, and it should be finished in April this year.” Q: How much do you think the charity has grown since you’ve been here? “When I first looked round it

there was no roof, no windows and now it just looks like an actual building. We are always expanding our services to reach more children and families.” Q: Once the hospice is operating in High Barnet, do you think it will help the charity branch out? “Yeah, so we’ll be able to help more children and families. Last year we looked after about 270 but we know there’s over 1,000 that need our help, so once we

“Definitely fundraising volunteering, it’s perfect for students. And volunteering in our charity shop; we have a charity shop in High Barnet.” Q: What is the charity’s vision five years from now? “Definitely just reaching out and just helping more children and more families and that’s in the community and in the hospice.” By Aaron Patel To volunteer, contact the Uni Volunteering team by emailing volunteering@londonmet.ac.uk

IS SOCIAL MEDIA MAKING US UNSOCIABLE?

f you ask a teenager what’s the first thing they do in the morning, I guarantee the answer would be “check my phone” - because growing up in this generation, in which I can safely give my viewpoint, is vastly different to generations before. Could you imagine leaving your phone at home all day or better yet, not even having a phone at all - as our parents did before us? Seems impossible, you might even say ridiculous. Because we NEED our phones right? We need to wish our distant relative a “happy birthday” every year or be forced to like your mum’s dog Instagrams, don’t we? This is what has become the problem. For something that was initially invented to make humans more social, it has done the polar opposite. People will scroll through Twitter at a family party or be checking their number of followers whilst trying to talk. Our generation can’t even have conversations anymore without being interrupted by their phone - we don’t know how to communicate face to face anymore. We don’t look each other in the eye but rush to Facebook to write a status on how we’re feeling. I call this the hypocrisy of social media.

This leads me on to the creation of ‘alter egos’ online. The original concept of presenting your best self on the Internet has spiralled into a mass culture of depicting yourself better than you actually are. Smiling for the camera when behind it you’re full of anxiety, or posting collages of all of your friends when in actual fact you only really trust two. This false persona that people have invented of themselves has turned them into someone else completely. Wouldn’t you rather just be who you are, rather than hiding behind a screen? That is what it has come down to; people are scared of the real world. I believe that the worst effect of these false impressions is the ever-rising mental health problems. A March 2018 survey of 1,000 millennials found that more than a third were quitting social media for good, with 41% saying that social media platforms make them feel anxious, sad or depressed. It’s all down to these ‘alter egos’: those with lower self-esteem idolise their peers who seem to ‘have it all’, when in actual fact we know this isn’t always the case. It can be so damaging to present yourself this way. When you go offline and step into the real world, you will find it much harder to keep up the real you, rather than the fake persona you have invented. Let’s keep it real.

My advice? BE YOU because that is always enough

By Katie Staines

If you are experiencing any mental health issues, our Uni Counselling Service can help. Just call 020 7 133 2093 for advice on how to book a free session.

MODERN SLAVERY: THE DARK SIDE OF FAST FASHION The next time you are tempted to buy super cheap clothes, ask yourself why the pricetag is so low. You might want to think again... It’s been known for decades how factory workers in developing countries, particularly those in Bangladesh, are often mistreated and forced to work long hours for fast fashion. The devastating collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh in 2013 made headlines worldwide as a clear example of modern slave labour. But what many don’t realise is this is now happening in the UK. Fast fashion is coming back to the West as the demand for a quick production turnaround is rife, resulting in overseas workers getting caught up in human trafficking and labour exploitation over here. Fashion Enter (FE), a garment factory in Haringey, is shouting about their ethical production practises as a shining example of what all factories should look like in the UK to eradicate modern slave labour. Caroline Ash, FE Production Director, said: “Slavery does exist in the UK. There is a dark side of fashion production because big brands don’t want to wait three months for overseas suppliers. Factories here can turn garments around in as little as six weeks.”

Such a quick turnaround for a bulk order is attractive for fast fashion brands but it means the problem is only moving from developing countries to the UK as workers are trafficked here. The 2018 Global Slavery Index estimated that 136,000 people are living as modern-day slaves in Britain - the majority from overseas - forced to work in nail bars, factories and farms. Leicester and now London are prolific for being fashion production hubs in the UK, but it is the former where most problems lie. According to a report by Apparel Insider, Leicester is where many slave labourers are taken as there are 700 garment factories supplying big brands, including Boohoo and Pretty Little Thing. According to the report, many illegal practises are taking place as factories are paying below minimum wage - £5 a day is considered top pay – and are failing to comply with basic health and safety measures, such as emergency exits being bolted shut. Anti-slavery campaigning organisation Unseen define slavery as someone who is: -forced to work through mental or physical threat -owned or controlled by an ‘employer’, usually through mental or physical abuse or the threat of abuse

-dehumanised, treated as a commodity or bought and sold as ‘property’ -physically constrained or have restrictions placed on his/her freedom Shedding light on why this issue is growing, Ash said: “The problem is there aren’t enough skilled machinists in this country. It’s not something you or I could do, it takes many years of practise to reach the standard of my machinists. Not one of my employees is English.” Asad Rehman, Director of War On Want, an anti-poverty and exploitation organisation, said that those who find themselves in poverty are forced to become part of modern-day slavery in the fashion production industry. “Over the last 10 years we have seen the same model of employment in Bangladesh, Cambodia and China brought here. However, the existing regulations enforced are so few that factory inspections allow many unscrupulous employers to escape without much attention.” Big brands are being held to account. The UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires organisations with an annual turnover of at least £36m to make a public statement on steps they are taking to identify and prevent modern slavery in their operations and supply

x e d n I y r e v a l S l a b o l G e r a 8 1 e l 0 p 2 o e e p 0 “Th 0 0 , 6 3 ” 1 n i t a a t i h r t B d n i s e v a l s estimate ay d n r e d o m s a g n i v li

chains. However, despite this transparency, not all companies are following through with protecting all workers. Rehman added: “We believe big brands illustrate the problem of supply chains. They won’t take responsibility and they’ll just say: ‘We didn’t know about this exploitation’. They should be held accountable, guarantee people are paid a living wage and there is dignity at work, provide safe conditions and allow trade unions to protect peoples’ rights. “It shouldn’t be a choice that your company doesn’t exploit people – it should be an obligation. That’s not voluntary.” Ash believes that recognising the signs of slavery are crucial to protect workers and free them. “Slave workers will often arrive and leave in big groups because their trafficker will control their movements,” she said, adding that they may be very timid and not give eye contact and they may have bruises or injuries. They won’t socialise in and outside of work and they will wear the same clothes as their wages will go to their trafficker. If you suspect someone is a modern slave and needs help you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline online or call 08000 121 700.

Machinist at Fashion E nter

Article originally printed in London Met website Holloway Express. See www.hollowayexpress.org.uk for more. By Emilie Warner and Charlotte Hart

THREE CHEERS FOR LONDON MET’S CHEERLEADERS Verve caught up with London Met’s cheerleading team, which recently participated in a competition representing the university. Shay Gassama, 22, gave us the low-down on what it’s like to cheer for London Met Q: Where was the competition? “At the Copper Box Arena in Stratford. The event is called Legacy – they are the platinum regionals. Teams from all over England come every year to compete and show their hard work. It’s very impressive as the arena holds up to 7,500 people!” Q: How do you think it went? “We came second and it went amazingly well considering all the challenges we had. It was my first year leading the team and the first time for a majority of the team to do cheer or even perform! But we went there as a team, did our best and all of our hard work paid off.” Q: Can you tell us how you prepared for the competition? “The training was pretty intense, especially in the last couple of

weeks. Many people even had an extra training session on Sundays with our coach! Cheerleading training is all about repeating things, not until you get it right but until you never get it wrong. But we helped each other stay positive and I’m so glad the team didn’t give up.”

“It’s a lot of work but I’m glad we had our amazing coach Autumn, last year’s captain, Laura, my vice-captain and my friends to help. Students’ Union Officers, Jessica and Diini, have been an amazing support as well.”

Q: How long did it take to get everything together, such as the routine?

“I would like the team to keep on getting bigger and better. We are hoping to introduce a new team that would be separate from the competitive one, for people who would like to participate just in the fun/social side of it. I hope the competitive team will keep on improving because the potential is definitely there.”

“It’s year-long work. Recruitment starts during Freshers’ week and then it takes about a month to get a definitive competitive team. Once that’s done, I need to hold everything and everyone together. Then I worked over the routine during the summer and once we got the coach, she used it and improved it and kept adding bits and bobs to it. We had to change things all the way until the end!”

Q: What are your hopes for the future?

By Emily Wilkinson If you’re interested in team sport, please get in touch by contacting: studentsunion@londonmet.ac.uk

VERVE’S COOKING CORNER With a fresh breeze on the horizon we can finally wave goodbye to those long dark nights stuffed with heavy comfort food and welcome fresh new flavours and colours onto our plate. At this point in the year we’ve exhausted our takeaway options and succumbed to the idea that cooking our own meals would be better for both our pockets and our health. Cooking together is also a fabulous way to cement any budding friendships made since last term. So, how can we inject some excitement on a budget?

STIR-FRY! Asian in origin, stir-fries are enjoyed worldwide as a quick, tasty and cheap-to-make meal you can prepare at home.

You don’t have to use any specific vegetables so keep it simple. Start out with three different types - the more colour the better. After all, variety is the spice of life!

Plus, a dish that requires a little preparation - especially slicing all those vegetables means you’ll develop some allimportant kitchen skills.

When you’re buying your ingredients there is often a shop section dedicated to stir-fries, where you can pick up your noodles, a sauce packet and veggies such as beansprouts.

Don’t be nervous about learning to chop properly. In your own space you aren’t against the clock, and you can go at your own pace. You decide if you want them chunky or not.

As a general rule of thumb, the harder the veg - such as a carrot - the longer it’ll take to cook. So when you’re adding them into your pan, add in that order.

RECIPE

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Top Tip:

Towar ds the e the ev ening nd of , man super y m discou arkets will n packe t pre-chop ped ts of v e Just t hrow getables. th straig ht into em toss o a pan n and creati up for a tas on wi t y tho hassle of pre ut the paring .

By Honey

“AFTER DOING SOME USER TESTING AND INTERVIEWS, IT BECAME CLEAR THAT I HAD A REAL WINNER ON MY HANDS… AIRBNB FOR THE CREATIVE SPACES” 12

Absolutely Audio founder Natalya Davies sits down with Gabriel Isserlis, CEO and Founder of impressive new music startup ‘Tutti’ - “a tool for musicians, made by musicians” The music industry is a volatile space that is no stranger to the presence of complex issues, notorious for its disruption within the creative community. Luckily for artists, there is always an innovative startup just around the corner, geared with “Robin Hood-esque” armour; to take clout from the powerful and give to the needy.

it his duty to make a difference. “Tutti is enabling artists to have access to cheaper, closer, and more inspiring spaces, while also building a community of collaboration and activity,” said Isserlis. The company is also providing a unique opportunity and revenue stream for property owners of all kinds to repurpose their free space and contribute to the creative community.

It is only fitting then, that music startup ‘Tutti’ plans to do exactly that. And by the looks of things, it is succeeding.

The website, which will likely be accompanied by an impressive app in mid-2019, was created with the aim of providing a wide range of rehearsal spaces for the very specific needs (and budgets) of any creative, amateur or professional.

Tutti, a space rental service otherwise described as the “Airbnb for the creative spaces”, was launched in November 2018, and is quickly making its mark in its primary territory: London. With a vibrant background in music and the arts, CEO and Founder Gabriel Isserlis understands the full spectrum of problems faced by the average artist and has made

When discussing the subject of consumer benefits, Isserlis notes that while there are many services to aid with performance and live events, the options for large-scale companies which offer services for the development stages, prior to the event, are notably minimal. Therefore, Tutti has devoted its service to nurturing and developing creativity in its

early stages. Just as you would expect from a company operating in the very sophisticated 21st century, Tutti’s infrastructure is built on the core values and demands of its target audience. That’s why it is aiming the bulk of its attention and care towards the consumers and their experiences. As a result, even the manner in which the business concept has been monetised reflects a deep understanding of the lifestyle and financial position of the average creative. As of now, Tutti’s space rental service is completely free up until the point of payment between the artist and the property owner, from whom the company then takes a 15% commission. It is the company’s key objective to make the rehearsal process as easy, secure and cheap as possible for creatives, despite any potential implications it may have on business aspects. By Natalya Davies Visit www.tutti.space for more information

“TUTTI IS ENABLING ARTISTS TO HAVE ACCESS TO CHEAPER, CLOSER AND MORE INSPIRING SPACE, WHILE ALSO BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF COLLABORATION AND ACTIVITY” 13

CREATIVE WRIT ING

#WHENIDIE AND RESURRECT If I were to die and resurrect, I would love to come back to a world where I can live outside the box and not think like anyone else. I would like to live selflessly, and be the voice of the voiceless. I was antisocial in my past life and am not ready to be social in the next life. I have seen and experienced a lot and was running out of patience to always be friendly. I enjoyed sitting on the fence and always looked for the words to describe the people around me in some kind of sentence. They drug you in the pretence that they like you, they drink a toast to you in happiness for your failures - but they do it with smiles. I wouldn’t have trusted myself enough around things I love, even if I had not experienced any of the above. I hated to be silenced and found myself contemplating things I considered self love. So I went out a lot. I always went out alone because I hated waiting on anybody. When the time was right for me to leave, I never had the patience to continue listening to anybody tell me when to go. I indulged in vigorous activities, either lifting weights or inserting my weight on somebody. You can find inner peace from being lonely and everlasting harmony from being content. Human beings have always been two-faced although many hate to admit it. I get tired of doing the same things and I would be happier if there was a mission for me to accomplish. I was friends with people who just wanted me as a friend for their own benefit. I saw what they were through my demise, and was astonished to discover that they didn’t bring me flowers or even pop a bottle to celebrate my life.

BRO, DO YOU EVEN MOVIES? By Pharon El-Nur

Actor Mahershala Ali has the golden touch

Hollywood idol: Mahershala Ali has won two Oscars and one Golden Globe

hen he becomes a household name appears to be a matter of time. But whether you’re a movie addict like myself or not, you have to be at least peripherally aware of Mahershala Ali’s work.

By Alec Jones If you are experiencing any mental health issues, our Uni Counselling Service can help. Just call 020 7 133 2093 for advice on how to book a free session.

Ali started in TV, appearing in Crossing Jordan and The 4400 in the early to mid-00’s. His first major film release, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, came in 2008; he then had a small part in House of Cards and took on the role of Boggs in The Hunger Games franchise. In 2016, Ali played the supervillain Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes in

Netflix’s Luke Cage. Flying under the radar for 20 years and risking it all to become one of Hollywood’s leading men, Ali’s exposure in the last three years confirms he’s headed for super-stardom. Seemingly coming out of nowhere, Ali baffled everyone with his commanding performance in Moonlight, a 2016 movie replete with explosive, visceral acting moments which would have otherwise stolen the show. For example, Naomie Harris’s memorable turn as Paula, Chiron’s crack-addicted, foulmouthed mother was equal parts terrifying, morbid— and downright fascinating, mesmerising in ways that only

the most frightening women in the history of film have ever been: think Louise Fletcher as Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Kathy Bates as Annie Wilkes in Misery, and Anne Ramsey as Mama Fratelli in The Goonies. But for Viola Davis’ gut-churning showing in Fences that same year, Naomie Harris could have, and should have, won that all-coveted golden statue. In Moonlight - the opposite end of Paula’s emotional spectrum - Ali appears as Juan, a calm, sympathetic and charismatic drug dealer who mentors, listens to, and teaches Chiron. Although appearing for only 16 minutes, and facing competition from Michael Shannon, Dev Patel, then-newcomer Lucas

Hedges and legendary Jeff Bridges, Ali’s impact was enough to garner an Academy Award win for Best Supporting Actor in 2017, effectively making him the only Oscar winner of Muslim faith. His victory rivalled the likes of Anne Hathaway in Les Miserables (15 minutes), Nicole Kidman in The Hours (28 minutes), and Anthony Hopkins in The Silence of the Lambs (16 minutes), for the shortest Oscarwinning acting performances (the record belonging to Beatrice Straight for her fiveminute masterful display in Network, 1976). To round up an eventful evening, Moonlight went on to lose then win Best Picture in what will be remembered as the most magnificently, hilariously awkward moment in the Academy’s long history of magnificently, hilariously awkward moments (J-Law falls flat on her face, John Travolta says “Adele Dazeem” instead of “Idina Menzel”, James Franco and Anne Hathaway utterly bomb as hosts, Michael Moore is booed off stage, etc.). Quickly putting the controversial evening aside, Ali went straight back to work. In 2018, he appeared as real-life classical pianist Donald “Don” Shirley in Green Book, based on the true story of Shirley’s troublesome, racism-filled tour of the segregated American south. Offering a Don Shirley that is as believable as he is dignified, Ali performs to the high standards he’s become associated with, expertly utilizing his face, voice and body to deliver the emotion and gravitas the role demands. As a bonus to the audience, the chemistry with his co-star (the excellent Viggo Mortensen as Tony “Lip” Vallelonga) is delightful. Viewers realise that the two actors are a pleasure to watch, bringing the script’s comedy and drama to life.

At times calm and composed, at times tragically torn and conflicted, Ali’s Don Shirley is impeccable, magnificent, perfect. It was then no surprise when Ali’s name was called up to the stage for the second time in as many nominations, making him both the first and second Muslim to win an Oscar. A relative unknown merely three years earlier, his skill and dedication allowed him to beat ruthless competition in the shape of Adam Driver (aka Star Wars’ Kylo Ren), veteran Richard E. Grant, previous winner Sam Rockwell, and moustachioed living icon Sam Elliott. After Green Book took the ultimate prize that night, it became the second film following Moonlight to win Best Picture, after Ali had been honoured for a performance in the same movie. Coincidence? Maybe. But the point is: there is such a thing as an actor’s “nose”: the ability to select, and get cast in, movies with the potential to be financial or critical hits. Even the hardest-working, most legendary actors have made terrible calls that were disastrous for their careers: Sean Connery infamously refused the role of Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, claiming the script was “incomprehensible”. Instead, he worked on The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen which, though financially successful, was disliked by critics and failed to gather enough interest to create the franchise the producers wanted. Sean Connery retired shortly after. Ali’s recent resume indicates that he’s not prone to such mistakes. In 2016, the same year as Moonlight, he starred in Hidden Figures, the story of a team of female African-Americans who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space programme. The movie

was nominated for three Oscars and grossed $170 million on a budget of $25 million. Recently you’ve seen posters for Alita: Battle Angel, the James Cameron-produced adaptation of the popular anime, in which, incidentally, Ali stars with another two-time Best Actor in a Supporting Role Oscar winner: Christoph Waltz (winning for Inglorious Basterds, 2009 and Django Unchained, 2012). Despite not ravishing critics, Alita is, as of writing, on its way to gross half a billion dollars worldwide. Finally, Mahershala Ali voices Uncle Aaron in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. In addition to its incredible, revolutionary animation techniques; stunning visuals, breath-taking action, and innovative narrative, Spider-Verse introduced movie audiences to the first black/ mixed race Spider-Man: Miles Morales. Predictably, despite staunch opposition from Incredibles 2, Isle of Dogs, Ralph Breaks the Internet and Mirai, Spider-Verse won Best Animated Feature Film in 2019, accomplishing, for Ali, the incredible feat of being the third movie starring himself to win the highest possible honour. That ties him with Ralph Fiennes, Colin Firth, Morgan Freeman, Jack Nicholson, Dustin Hoffman, Diane Keaton, and Meryl Streep. However, it took most of them several decades. Mahershala Ali did it in just three years. It is a rarely-seen streak of hot form, which the versatile, charismatic Oakland native will be thrilled to keep up. Speaking of thrills, he is currently getting rave reviews for his return to TV in the third season of HBO’s True Detective, and early whispers of potential Emmy wins could become clamours soon. One to watch out for? Nope. The Ali show is happening right now.

STUDENTS’ UNION PULL-OUT Spring Edition! SU ELECTIONS 2019

SU AWARDS 2019

Results page 18-19

Recognising students and staff for their contributions to the London Met community

Page 20-21

ACADEMIC ADVICE & GUIDANCE

PRESENTERS PROFILES Page 22-23

PAGE 24

londonmetsu

www.londonmetsu.org.uk

SU AWA R D S 2019 Recognising students and staff for their contributions to the London Met community

Get your tickets today! www.londonmetsu.org.uk/awards Wednesday 1st May The Great Hall, London Metropolitan University

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DO THE NSS RIGHT MEOW!

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LONDON MET’S BRAND NEW POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH SOCIETY

ondon Met Students’ Union has a brand new kid on the block: The Postgraduate Research Society (PGRS). Initiated as a project in October 2018, it was approved by the Students’ Union in January as a society for PhD, Prof Docs and MPhil students studying at London Metropolitan University.

Connect with like-minded people for mutual support and peer-support

Socialise with others through social events, academic seminars and meet-ups outside university

The general aim of the PGRS is to build a student research community within London Met as no research-based group of its kind currently existed.

Through the PGRS, research students from different schools within the University will be able to work together beyond schools. It will allow students to:

Promote and develop a research community from all backgrounds and studies

Make use of a space for developing research ideas amongst peers

5. 6.

Create network opportunities

Get support from the moment they enrol, including new postgraduate students

Attend activities aimed at developing research skills

Viewpoint on the PGRS from Wally Mbassi, Media and Communications Research degree:

That meeting enabled me to find out that most research students have working spaces/ rooms/offices (shared or not) available to them, and that I am entitled to one too. I didn’t know that. So instead of having to make do with the noise (mind

Apart from the meetings, there will be activities provided by the PGRS such as writing retreats, monthly social gatherings in and out of London, and monthly London Met lunch get-togethers. These activities and the success of the PGRS depend on every research student’s input. That way, the Postgraduate Research Society

will become a stronger and a more valuable community. Although this society is aimed towards research students, postgraduate students (such as MA or MSc students) who are interested in research degrees and want to meet research students are also welcome. Please subscribe to the Facebook group where you will get info on future events or any updates regarding the PGRS. facebook.com/groups/ LondonMetUniPGRS Subscribe to updates at: londonmetpgrsociety@gmail.com

See also londonmetsu.org.uk

DIVERSITY

ONDON - a hub of vibrant culture, opportunity and diversity. It’s no wonder the capital has the largest number of foreignborn residents compared to any other city in the UK.

E G A U G N LA

The PGRS had its first meeting in February and it was a fruitful one. In fact, it demonstrated how such meetings can provide research students with helpful and vital information, especially for those who are new to research degrees or working with new research supervisors.

you, even in the Silent Zone) in the Library, I will soon be able to work on my research project in peace and silence. A room is being prepared and equipped for me and seven other research students. That room is located on the 6th floor of the Tower Building (Holloway Road Campus) and will be ready for us to use very soon.

So what makes this place so special? Why are people from all over the globe putting themselves through the difficult, time-consuming process of obtaining a visa in order to study, work and live here? Most importantly, what made some people choose London Met over the 40 other higher education institutions located in the heart of this city? Verve spoke to three international London Met students...

What made you choose to study at London Metropolitan? Jessica Kiss: Germany London Met has the broadest Digital Media course in London. It is also very conveniently located in the centre of London!

Ananya (Ace) Gupta: India

Benedetta Avidano: Italy

I’ve had some complications in past couple of years which has made it essential for me to live with my family. London Metropolitan University offered flexibility, especially concerning the course I was looking for.

I decided to come to London Met because I was impressed by its offer. I decided to study here because I felt that the structure of the course suits me most. I also like how we have access to a ton of facilities and equipment. I like how the classes are interactive and not just passive - it’s also really practical so you get to apply your knowledge to the real world.

Why did you choose to come to London?

What is your favourite part of London and why?

Jessica Kiss

I’ve chosen London as I fell in love with it while visiting friends. I like the diversity in this city.

Ananya (Ace) Gupta

Benedetta Avidano

My parents wanted to move here for quite a while and they had some really good job opportunities here. They felt my brother could get a better education and I sort of followed along and applied to university.

I chose London because after I finished high school, I thought that the British capital would be great to improve my language skills. As it’s a really big, international city, I thought it would give me the opportunity to work in a more diverse environment compared to back home.

Ananya (Ace) Gupta My favourite part of London is Crouch End for its cafes and vibes and Richmond for its beauty.

As expensive as it is, Central London is always fun to go to. There’s always a lot going on and there’s always something to do with friends.

Benedetta Avidano Notting Hill is my favourite part because of its colourful buildings and because you can really see the British style of housing - they are different from the style that is used to build houses back in Turin. I also love Camden because its buildings are also very distinctive. I love the old vintage styles as they stand out to me.

What are the differences of living in London compared to your home country?

Are there any similarities between London and your home country? If so, what are they?

Jessica Kiss

Ananya (Ace) Gupta

Benedetta Avidano

Jessica Kiss

The difference compared to Germany is definitely the cost of living - it is much more expensive here. Also the recycling system could be a lot better here.

I use the public transport here a lot more. It’s a very well developed system and it really helps me out. Obviously it’s also a lot colder here. I’m definitely a lot more independent but I struggle with social interactions a lot more here than back home.

London is much much international. People come from all over the world to London, whereas in my city there are fewer foreigners. The routine in Italy is different - we do everything later than in England, such as eating lunch or dinner. It’s easier to find a job here in London, especially as a young person. In Italy the cost of living is much cheaper, I’m sure anyone coming from another place outside of London can say the same thing!

Ananya (Ace) Gupta Similarities I guess are the drinking habits!

As surprising as it may sound, the landscapes around the two cities tend to seem and feel similar. The roads and traffic are also similar.

Benedetta Avidano Both are really known for their distinct cultures and educational opportunities. For example, Italy is considered to be one of the most popular tourist destinations - there are many art galleries, theatres, opera houses and museums that showcase Italian history and culture. Many universities in Italy now are becoming known worldwide due to the country’s good education system, and many higher education institutes around the world have exchange partners with these Italian universities. Words and photo: Syahirah Harun

STUDENTS ARE INSPIRED BY JOURNALISTS AT BLOOMBERG NEWS CENTRE

ournalism students recently had the chance to see financial journalism in action during a visit to Bloomberg News Centre’s new offices in the City of London. Associate Professor of Journalism Victoria Neumark Jones organised the visit to Bloomberg in Queen Victoria Street, London, as part of a Journalism Newsweek. “Bloomberg, as the world’s biggest financial information organisation, practise real journalism. It’s a great inspiration to see them at work,” said Neumark Jones. Students were whisked up in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory style glass elevators from the reception to the Pantry, which is located on the 6th floor, where they were invited to indulge in complementary pastries, coffees and speciality teas. Bloomberg have over 150 offices across the world, including in New York, Dubai and Pakistan. The new London office is noted for its energy efficiency and was designed by Fosters and Partners at cost of around £1bn. It sits discreetly in the area of Bank within full view of Saint Paul’s Cathedral. “I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I was completely blown away by the building and its bustling environment,” said first-year student Rhanie Al-Alas. “All the staff looked happy to be there and it certainly is an environment I am striving to work in.” Neil Callanan, London Bureau Chief, spoke to students about the importance of data journalism during their visit. “Don’t be scared of numbers or data, there is always someone you can ask for help and it’s a really good way to get a story

with facts that are there and plain to see,” he said. Anybody wanting to get into journalism should be nosey, investigative and thick-skinned, he added. He gave an example of a journalist who used the Freedom of Information Act to discover how investors who purchased properties in Millionaires’ Row in Hampstead Heath were paying less council tax then those in other disadvantaged areas of London living in council properties. Retail reporter Ellen Milligan spoke to students about her journey into journalism, which began when she did a ten-week internship at Bloomberg. She split her time working on bonds and foreign exchange, and oil markets. “The internship was a great way of getting incredibly valuable training in business journalism,” she said. “The newsroom is the friendliest I have ever been in, full-on enthusiastic journalists who love to collaborate with others to write great pieces. Whether you are from a financial background or not, I would really recommend it.” Nate Lanxon, Global Consumer Technology Journalist, said he never had any formal qualifications and left school “to pursue my interests in dismantling and putting together computers”. Lanxon said he always had an interest in writing and often blogged about his work, which gained a lot of attention. When recruiting, he looks to see if applicants have blogs across social networks showing their passion and commitment. He added that he favours passion and commitment more than a degree. Siraj Datoo, Digital News Journalist, gave the students examples of tweets and posts that come through Bloomberg’s Social Media desk, and asked students to put on their

journalistic hats and share ideas on how they would deal with specific scenarios to find an angle into the story. One scenario was a tweet that purportedly came from Theresa May saying: “I have hacked this account and now own it along with other accounts of members of parliament, send me $300 worth of bitcoins to the link provided if you want them back.” This was to see how students would engage and deal with the information, ensuring sound judgement when it came to differentiating between real and fake news. The key advice that came to light for the students was that journalists must always check information and follow it up by with sound fact checking, using common sense combined with skills they have learnt during their time on their Journalism courses. “I really enjoyed the presentations and exercises, because they were relatable to what we have covered in our Practical Journalism module,” said first-year student Natasha Drakakis. “I also liked the way you could find numerous stories in one breaking news story allowing you to explore angles not seen in the first instance.” Students also visited the TV studio, which is the most technologically advanced in the world at this time. Lamin Jaiteh, first-year Media, Communications and Journalism student, said: “It was a great day and I am interested in getting an internship at Bloomberg when I finish my studies. I would also recommend that all students in media and journalism take a visit to Bloomberg.” Bloomberg’s next internship programme runs from February 2020. See www.bloomberg.com/ careers for more information about how to apply. Words and photo: Junior Linden

ANDY MURRAY AND THE END OF THE “BIG FOUR” ERA

n the 10th of January 2019, Andy Murray took journalists, tennis players and fans by surprise when he announced he was considering retirement. He broke the news in Melbourne, three days before the beginning of the Australian Open 2019 (14 January – 27 January). Constrained by a hip injury since 2017 and operated on in early 2018, Murray has fallen into the depths of the world rankings. He declared he was still unable to overcome his injury and that he might retire after Wimbledon

this year. In tears, this “Big Four” member nearly made the whole world cry as well. Even fellow “Big Four” members (Federer, Nadal and Djokovic) were devastated. Although his trophy list is less impressive than that of these three tennis legends, it is nonetheless overwhelmingly good, not only in global tennis but also (and even more so) in the British tennis sphere. Let’s go back to what his career has been like… Andy Murray was born on May 15, 1987 in Glasgow. He has won 45 ATP singles titles, including the 2012 US Open, Wimbledon

in 2013 and 2016, the 2016 ATP Finals, and 14 Masters 1000s, as well as two Olympic gold medals in London (2012) and in Rio (2016). This has made him the only player to win two consecutive gold medals in the discipline. He has also been a runnerup at the 2008 US Open; the 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2016 Australian Open; Wimbledon 2012 and Roland Garros 2016. On November 7, 2016, he became the 26th World No. 1 in ATP and the first British player to top this ranking. Overwhelming, isn’t it? Murray basically took British tennis to

another level. He consolidated the work former players like Greg Rusedski and Tim Henman (both former World No. 4s) started before him. In 2013, Murray became the first British male champion at the All England Club for the last 77 years. The guy is definitely a legend. I know Federer, Nadal and Djokovic make people feel like being a tennis legend is about winning 14+ slams - but it’s not as easy as they make it seem. People may also want to compare Andy Murray to a player like Stan Wawrinka, referring to the number of Slams

they won (three each). Well, Murray disputed 11 Slam finals (Wawrinka disputed four of them) and had it not been because of Djokovic (who defeated him five times in Slam finals) and Federer (who defeated him three times in slam finals), he would have won a lot more Grand Slam titles. Murray worked hard to achieve all this. He was a warrior on court. He demonstrated that again during the first round he played against Roberto Bautista Agut at the Australian Open 2019. Even though he lost this match, he gave his opponent a hard time, only losing in the fifth set (6/4 6/4 6/7 6/7 6/2).

For someone with a serious injury, that’s amazing. After this match, Murray announced he would have hip resurfacing, which he had in early February. It remains to be seen whether his retirement is immediate or not. But one thing is clear - he has made a lot of money in his career - more than £150 million, according to reports. Let’s hope we get to see him again on court this year. In any case, tennis and the “Big Four” are and will never be the same without him. By Wally Mbassi