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YOUTH ARE AWESOME

Youth Are Awesome, commonly referred to as YAA, is a blog written by youth for youth. YAA provides the youth of Calgary a place to amplify their voices and perspectives on what is happening around them. Youth Are Awesome is a program of Youth Central.

Any views or opinions expressed on this blog belong solely to the author and do not represent those of people or organizations that the blog may be associated with, unless explicitly stated. All content is for informational purposes only.

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Why Our Generation Holds the Blueprint for Real Change:

Hafsah A
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Why Our Generation Holds the Blueprint for Real Change:

Our generation stands at the forefront of an era defined by both unprecedented challenges and opportunities. We’re growing up in a world grappling with climate change, social inequality, and technological evolution; but this unique mix of circumstances has also given us fresh perspectives and tools to create real change. Unlike past generations, we’ve been raised alongside the digital revolution, equipping us with the ability to mobilize communities, share knowledge globally, and hold institutions accountable in ways never before possible.

What change has Generation Z brought?

Movements like #BlackLivesMatter gained unparalleled momentum through Gen Z’s digital activism, especially during the protests following George Floyd’s death. They’ve used platforms like TikTok and Twitter to organize protests and spread awareness globally.

Gen Z has advocated for sustainable clothing through social media campaigns, raising awareness about the environmental harm caused by fast fashion. Platforms like TikTok feature thrift haul trends and DIY tutorials that encourage sustainable consumer habits.

During the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, Gen Z broke records for youth voter turnout by running grassroots campaigns and using social media to mobilize peers. Organizations like Vote Save America credited young activists for engaging millions of first-time voters.

How can we continue to bring positive change in the real world?

  1. Push for Policy Change Through Advocacy to Speak Up                                        Join advocacy groups that influence policy decisions at both the local and national levels, working to push for necessary reforms within your community. Don’t be afraid to speak out against local issues, and connect with local government if necessary.
  2. Educate and Mentor
    Share knowledge by sharing experiences with younger generations and educating peers on important social issues to help cultivate future advocates and promote awareness. Education is the first step that leads to change. 
  3. Support Ethical Businesses
     Use your purchasing power to support companies that prioritize sustainability, fairness, and ethical practices, promoting accountability in industries.

The future is in our hands, and through collective action, determination, and responsibility, we can bring about the lasting changes that our world deserves.

sources: 1 , 2

Why “A Thousand Splendid Suns” By Khaled Hosseini Will Break Your Heart and Mend it Again

Thi
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Why “A Thousand Splendid Suns” By Khaled Hosseini Will Break Your Heart and Mend it Again

Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns doesn’t just tell a story—it immerses you in a world of heartache, resilience, and hope that will stay with you long after the final page. With unforgettable characters, beautiful story-telling, and a heart-breaking tale, this masterpiece certainly leaves a profound mark on readers.

A Tale of Two Women

At the heart of this book are Mariam and Laila, two women from different worlds whose lives will soon intertwine in a shared struggle. Mariam, an illegitimate child ostracized by society, and Laila, a spirited young woman with dreams of a bright future, find themselves united by fate and hardship.

The Weight of Patriarchy

Hosseini masterfully illustrates the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. From forced marriages to societal restrictions, Mariam and Laila endure harsh realities that feel both distant and painfully familiar. Yet, within these struggles, the novel highlights acts of courage, defiance, and love that redefine strength. The author depicts the difficulties that women and girls in Afghanistan face on a daily basis in heart-wrenching way, leaving readers astonished and anguished. Personally, this book left me staring at the wall for good whole week.

Sisterhood and an Unbreakable Bond

    While the book explores profound suffering, it also celebrates the human capacity for connection and love. Mariam and Laila’s friendship becomes a beacon of hope, showing that even in the darkest times, relationships can offer healing and strength. Their sacrifices for one another will move readers to tears, but also remind them of the beauty in selflessness.

Why It’s Worth the Heartbreak

Yes, this novel will break your heart. The trials Mariam and Laila face are gut-wrenching, and their losses are truly felt. However, it’s the moments of hope—the small victories, the quiet acts of love, and the unyielding strength of the human spirit—that make the journey worthwhile. By the final page, you’ll find your heart mended, even after those shattering, tear-jerking pages.

My Thoughts

I first read this book when I was 13. It truly changed the way I saw the world. To think that girls my age were going through these horrible things every single day really is a slap in the face. A Thousand Splendid Suns is not just a story—it’s a reality for some people, unfortunately.

That being said, this book is my absolute favourite of all time. The author perfectly depicted the feelings of the characters, so it feels like you’re right in the story. This book is one of the most beautiful and saddest things I have ever read, and I will keep recommending it to people. Even if you aren’t a fan of sad books, I highly suggest giving it a try. Each page will keep you hooked, as it did for me. I remember I stayed up for hours at night to try and finish the book. If you read A Thousand Splendid Suns and enjoy it, you should continue with Khaled Hosseini’s other novels. They share the same vibes, and all are beautiful stories.

In conclusion, A Thousand Splendid Suns is a must-read. It’s a heartbreaking and beautiful journey that will stay with you long after the tears have dried. Be prepared to cry—and also to be profoundly moved.

 

 

Squid Game: Revisiting A Classic

Hannah Li
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Squid Game: Revisiting A Classic

Did you hear? Squid Game Season 2 is releasing in a few days on December 26th, 2024.

So, in preparation for the new release, let’s refresh our minds on the last season and discuss the cultural phenomenon of Squid Game.

Can you still recall?

For those who have never watched Squid Game (very few) and those who may have forgotten the events (many), Squid Game follows the story of Gi-hun, a man who enters “Squid Game”, a game where 456 players risk their lives to complete in a series of mini-games where the ultimate winner has the chance to win $38 million.

Though he ends up winning the game at the end of Season 1, he is deeply dissatisfied with the inhumane nature of the game. This sets up the plot well for Season 2, where he will be re-entering the game to attempt to stop it.

What was so special about Squid Game?

It’s hard to say what makes a show an internet sensation, as the virality of shows is certainly arbitrary. Many shows are critically acclaimed, yet garner no public fame or attention. Other shows are deemed as “hot trash” by critics but are loved by the public.

However, Squid Game is one of those shows that is both respected by critics for its deep social commentary and woefully loved by the public.

Though some still disagree on whether Squid Game deserved the hype it received, the one thing that no one can deny is its profound impact on media, pop culture, and society.

Squid Game’s Impact on Society: The Larger Cultural Implications of Squid Game’s Success

I still distinctly remember the online sphere when Squid Game first came out in 2021 – it was quite literally a cultural phenomenon.

Prior to Squid Game, when I, as an avid Kdrama (Korean Drama) watcher, would recommend a Kdrama to my friends, many of them would ask me what a Kdrama was. This was the norm back then, as before Squid Game, Korean Dramas were not popular in the West.

However, Squid Game shook the entire sphere of Western media. Suddenly, the most viral show wasn’t a Western or European production, but instead, a Korean one.

To many casual watchers, Squid Game may have just been a viral show. But in the sphere of film and media, it was the show that popularized Korean productions.

Suddenly, new Korean releases such as Business Proposal and All Of Us Are Dead were in Netflix’s ‘Top 10’, and people would look for Kdramas to watch instead of browsing the Western catalogue.

In this regard, Squid Game’s success was instrumental in popularizing Korean Dramas amongst Western watchers. 

It catapulted the popularity of Korean Dramas and introduced millions to dozens of amazing productions that otherwise wouldn’t have received international attention.

 

In conclusion, Squid Game (2021) was more than just a show: it was the window of opportunity that allowed Korean Dramas to find their place in the sphere of Western media. It was the coming together of millions of fans globally to enjoy a thrilling, dystopian TV series from an otherwise under-recognized genre.

The question now is will Squid Game Season 2 experience the same virality as Season 1, and can we expect it to send forth a new wave of Korean Drama popularity? Only time will tell.

For now, I’m setting a countdown for December 26th and getting ready to revisit an old classic!

 

 

 

 

Current-Day Misogyny: What Happened to Andrew Tate?

Jeanne Y
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Current-Day Misogyny: What Happened to Andrew Tate?
  • Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of rape, sexual abuse, and human trafficking.

Andrew Tate, a 38 year old former boxer, is a well-known Tiktok influencer infamous for spreading extreme misogyny and sexism across the internet.

He went viral over Tiktok in 2022 for making derogatory comments about women. An example of this would be his comment that if a man and a woman were in a relationship, the woman “belonged” to the man. Another example is when he said that it was a symbol of status and propriety for a man to have multiple affairs, but women with multiple sexual partners were immediately worthless.

Over the last few years, Andrew Tate and his brother, Tristan Tate, were both charged with human trafficking and rape. Andrew Tate was also banned from social media, which worsened impact of the algorithm’s tendency to push viral trends to more and more people.

Many women have also testified in court against Andrew Tate, accusing him of sexual abuse and rape.

Both Tate brothers moved to Romania, where they were again charged but never on trial for their alleged crimes. It is rumoured that they fled to Romania because its judiciary system is often known to delay trials for sexual abuse cases indefinitely.

But that’s when the general public began to turn its eye away from Tate, because he surely would have gotten his punishment by now. Andrew Tate was no more than another name on the wall of Internet fame that would soon be forgotten and meaningless. All his actions ultimately had no impact…

…right?

The Impact of the Algorithm

There’s a huge impact, actually.

We learned from Andrew Tate’s social media ban that bans are not effective at stopping a message from being spread. At all.

In fact, people are more likely to be curious about banned material. Many audiences scramble to view it, and before you know it, a banned topic has gone viral and is circulating all around the algorithm.

The Impact on Younger Boys

The majority of Tate’s followers and supporters are young men, who have found his content through its viral boom.

Although content like this might have started circulating as a meme or a joke, it eventually reaches audiences who don’t understand the full scope of the joke and will begin to believe it. That is the last thing we want our younger audiences to see, but it is increasingly harder to avoid as younger and younger audiences flock to their screens for entertainment.

Because we’re all stuck to our screens all the time, the algorithm pushes content that it thinks would interest its audience. For many younger boys, who might be watching harmless Minecraft videos, the algorithm recognizes them as a potential audience for popular content that older men are watching, like Andrew Tate’s content.

And then, these beliefs spread like wildfire. People like Tate still have so many supporters because of the naive “follow-the-leader” nature of the algorithm.

What’s Happening Now

The Romanian court recently sent the sex trafficking court case back to the prosecutors (DIICOT) after removing multiple pieces of evidence by deeming them inadmissible. These included testimonies from two main alleged victims.

DIICOT is an anti-organized crime processing unit, which is still in charge of the prosecution of this case. Although the case is still open, the ruling that sent the case back to the prosecutors was a major setback for DIICOT.

That having been said, the case is still open to investigation. Andrew Tate is also still awaiting trial for the sexual abuse allegations he faces.

Opinions from the Author

This article was incredibly hard for me to write. While I believe in always seeking the truth of situations, I think that Andrew Tate’s history and what he’s up to now is not one of the most pleasant topics. In fact, it was so gruesome that this article took many drafts, edits, and a ridiculously long time to write because at the end of the day, I wanted to communicate this message clearly.

You choose what information you ingest. You choose, through your every day scrolling, through the likes that you give, and through the comments that you leave, who you support and how you do it. The internet is a fast-paced world: people and trends come and go. It’s completely normalized.

It is so easy to hop on and off trends – mini-shorts, pink coquette ribbons, and coffee-shop aesthetics – but in my humble opinion, there are things that shouldn’t just be passed off as a social media trend. Things like human trafficking, unpunished crime, and misogyny… are all much more serious than the “brat-girl-summer” and should be treated as such. It’s so unpleasant to think about some of these things, but awareness is critical. Simply ignoring things doesn’t mean they cease to exist. Do something. Anything.

So make a choice. Choose to take action, to advocate for what you believe is right. Use social media as an outlet and an input of news, instead of an endless cycle of rage baiting and slang terms.

Sources: 1, 2, 3

Ilona Maher: Rugby’s Femininomenon

Jianna H
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Ilona Maher: Rugby’s Femininomenon

Beast Beauty and Brains

After the 2024 Summer Olympics, American rugby player Ilona Maher has become a role model for young girls nationwide through her strong and determined mindset and confidence in her femininity. Since the Olympics, she has appeared on Dancing with the Stars, Season 33, featured on Forbes’ 2025 30 under 30 list, and recently signed with the English Rugby Union Team, Bristol Bears.

Maher is an absolute beast on the field, but even so, she still isn’t the best in the league. In an interview with Rugby Union Weekly, she admitted to her imperfections on the field.

“I’m amazing at rugby, but realistically, I’m maybe not the best at it, which is fine,”

Despite this, Ilona has become the spokesperson for not only rugby but also women athletes across the world. What differentiates Ilona Maher from other players? Why has the world suddenly developed Maher Fever?

Simply put, her charisma and bubble personality have infected the nation, and her insistence on speaking about body positivity and the challenges girls and women face in sports has crowned her the “People’s Princess.”

The 2024 Summer Olympics

During the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, Ilona gained fame for her TikTok, which provided insight into the lives of Olympians during this international event. Most of all, her videos proved that despite their athletic prowess, the famous world athletes we look up to are actually just like us.

The following Summer Olympics in 2024, Ilona continued her social media streak and, most importantly, helped Team USA gain another Olympic medal, the first-ever medal for America in Rugby at the Olympics.

The Bronze Medal match between Australia and America was a personal highlight of the Olympics for me. Both teams played fiercely; Australia is known for its rugby skills, featuring formidable and intimidating players such as the Levi sisters, Madison and Tegan Levi. Ultimately, in the final minute of the game, America scored the winning try, securing a bronze medal for Team USA, marking this game as a historical landmark for America and female athletes worldwide.

Dancing With The Stars

After her rise to fame during the Olympics, Ilona continued her journey as a contestant on ABC’s TV show, “Dancing with the Stars” for its 33rd season along with fellow American Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik.

Maher broke boundaries with her partner, Alan Bersten, as during dances, she emitted feminity but refused to follow traditional rules as she was often lifting Bersten and performing impressive tricks.

Some of her highlights from this season include her dance to Encanto’s “Surface Pressure” for Disney Night due to a popular fan request, and of course, her season finale dance to “Femininomenon” by Chappel Roan.

Though Ilona’s presence on the show racked up millions of views and record-breaking voting numbers, her competitors Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson swept away first place with their perfect scoring cha-cha, leaving Ilona and Alan with a much-deserved second place.

Forbes 30 under 30

Through all of her accomplishments both in and out of the sports world, Ilona Maher has claimed a spot on one of the most sought-after lists, Forbes 30 under 30. This list highlights 30 people under the age of 30 who have accomplished extraordinary things in different areas of expertise, such as social media, entrepreneurship, medicine and, of course, sports.

Bristol Bears

After much debate on what the future holds for Ilona Maher, she finally announced that she will be signing to the Rugby Union team Bristol Bears for the 2025 season.

Maher is the world’s most-followed rugby player on social media. Her signing to the Bristol Bears has rapidly increased their prominence in the media and has aided in selling out games so quickly that stadium changes are required.

Currently, Ilona is preparing for her first game on January 5th against Gloucester-Hartpury as she transitions from the elegant world of dance to the rigorous training required for rugby.

All eyes are on Maher as we watch this rugby star’s legacy unfold before us, as we all cheer for Team Beast Beauty and Brains.

Sources

1, 2, 3

 

The Illusion of Perfection: How Romanticization Distorts Teenage Reality

Elizabeth Aluko
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The Illusion of Perfection: How Romanticization Distorts Teenage Reality

In the age of social media and streaming platforms, teenagers are finding themselves swept into an unrealistic portrayal of life that often leaves them frustrated, stressed, and disconnected from reality. The allure of a “perfect” life—akin to romantic comedies or Instagram-ready moments—is a growing concern, as idealized depictions of success, relationships, and struggles influence how young people perceive their own experiences.

We’ve all seen the movie scenes: a girl walks gracefully along a sunlit beach, chatting effortlessly while her hair blows perfectly in the wind. In reality, this picturesque moment often translates into tangled hair, burning feet on scorching sand, and an overall less-than-glamorous experience. This contrast highlights the core problem—life rarely mirrors these flawless on-screen moments, yet teenagers feel pressured to replicate them.

 

Social Media and Teenage Stress

Unsplash Image of Hand of man holding a smartphone displaying the Tik Tok application logo

A 2018 study by the American Psychological Association found a strong link between teenage stress and the chronic use of social media. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok promote selective sharing, showcasing only the most curated and idealized snapshots of life. This fuels perfectionism—a growing pressure to appear flawless in academics, relationships, and personal achievements.

In response to this pressure, many teens turn to online trends encouraging them to “romanticize school” or everyday life. Viral videos teach teens how to make mundane experiences feel cinematic, fostering unrealistic expectations. Rather than appreciating genuine moments, young people are encouraged to construct ‘main character’ experiences that mimic fictional portrayals. This creates an unhealthy cycle where real life feels disappointing by comparison.

The Glorification of Struggle: Media’s Role in Unrealistic Expectations

An example of this phenomenon can be seen in popular shows like Gilmore Girls, where Rory Gilmore’s late-night study sessions are often romanticized. In one iconic scene, Rory dismisses sleep in favour of academic success, saying, “Who cares if I’m pretty if I fail my finals?” While the quote resonates with students online, it fails to portray the reality—exhaustion, stress, and the emotional toll of overwork.

These media depictions glorify struggle, leading teens to believe that sleepless nights and high stress are necessary components of success. In reality, these moments come with significant consequences that often go unacknowledged in romanticized portrayals.

Breaking the Cycle: Goal Setting as a Solution

Unsplash Image of Person Writing Bucket List on Board

One effective way to combat the harmful effects of romanticization is through organized goal-setting. By focusing on personal growth and realistic expectations, teenagers can reframe their mindset and embrace genuine progress. Pablo Picasso once said, “Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan.” The key lies in prioritizing the process over unattainable outcomes.

There are three main types of goals that can help shift focus from perfection to personal fulfilment:

  1. Process Goals: These goals focus on daily habits and actions, encouraging consistent effort rather than instant success.
  2. Performance Goals: These emphasize measurable progress, helping individuals celebrate small, achievable milestones.
  3. Outcome Goals: These provide long-term direction while reducing the pressure to control every aspect of the final result.

By adopting a structured approach to goal setting, teenagers can align their actions with their values and aspirations. This not only reduces stress but also fosters a healthier, more realistic perspective on achievement.

A Call for Realism

In a world saturated with idealized images and fictional portrayals, it is essential to embrace life’s imperfections. Rather than chasing unattainable standards, young people can find fulfilment in authentic experiences and personal growth. Life is not a carefully staged film or an edited social media post—it is meant to be lived honestly, with all its chaos and complexity.

By shifting focus away from romanticization and perfectionism, teenagers can reduce unnecessary stress and cultivate a more balanced, meaningful approach to life. True fulfilment lies not in fabricated ideals, but in the messy, imperfect reality of genuine experience. ¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵ ⁶ ⁷ ⁸

The Benefits Of Opera – An Interview With Stephania Romaniuk

Crystal Lattice
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The Benefits Of Opera – An Interview With Stephania Romaniuk

What Is Opera? 

When it comes to defining opera, you may believe that it is a dramatic representation of music in the theater world. While that is true, there is still much more to that story, a lot more to learn from it. A couple months ago, a fellow blogger, Jeanne Y., and I were blessed with the opportunity to interview directors associated with opera. The director that I interviewed was Stephania Romaniuk, the Director of Learning and Engagement for the Calgary Opera. Personally, I too had believed that opera is a dramatic representation of music, but after preparing and conducting the interview, I had learned there is so much more to opera than we may know. If there is only one thing you can extract from this blog post, then it has to be my favorite quotation from Stephania Romaniuk:

“The biggest doorway to Opera is having open ears and an open heart”

Opera
Image by WikimediaImages from Pixabay

What is the purpose of Operas?

A common playwright to associate operas would be none other than Mozart. In my interview with Stephania Romaniuk, I was introduced to her comparison between Mozart and Shakespeare and their parallels in their literature works. Of course, many great stories have an intriguing plot and insightful themes. Both Mozart and Shakespeare presented these ideas through their plays and embedded information that is palpable and applicable towards our real lives. In Opera, these dramatic musical performances allow “very vivid characters to come alive through music.” Opera invites many art forms, such as the visual arts, music, and drama. It is true to consider opera as a musical performance, but the dimensions it provides, through an artistic and literature stance, leaves much to comprehend, even after watching the same opera 100 times. They are not only made for everyone’s pleasure, but also to understand more about ourselves and living a harmonious life.

Chinese Opera
Image by Russell_Yan from Pixabay

The Benefits Of Opera

1. Develops your moral center

Ethical idea
Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

Stephania Romaniuk had mentioned that “many themes of operas are to find your moral code, your moral center.” With that in mind, there is no right or wrong age to find yourself at an opera. Operas are made for everyone; to be witnessed; to be performed; to be indulged.

No matter how old you are, they can provide many lessons towards our lives and how we should behave. Stephania Romaniuk had said it best when she said that “it (operas) are perfect to start developing your sense on how you want to act in the world and how you can act without harming others.”

Although this may seem directed towards the younger age, navigating the world without harm is a challenge we all face at any age. To assist us in our journeys throughout life, developing our moral centers through opera allows us to become more aware of ourselves.

 

2. Allows us to appreciate real time performances

Opera house
Image by WikiImages from Pixabay

Before we begin this benefit, I have to reveal my inevitable bias towards it. Personally, I have participated in drama classes at school. Because my school has had an excellent theater, each class would conduct a mainstage production for other classes to watch. I had learned many lessons from these so my appreciation for real time performances had already existed beforehand. Now, the impact of this benefit entirely depends on the person. However, I want to approach it from a general perspective as much as possible.

During my interview with Stephania, she had made the comparison between experiencing the live opera vs. watching it from a screen. Every one of us reading this blog post knows what it’s like to experience something from a screen (hint: you’re experiencing it right now). However, compare this as if I were to verbally articulate this content towards you. It would surely be different.

Stephania Romaniuk had labeled opera as a “mental health antidote to screens.” Not only does opera relieve us from our screens, but it can open our excitement to artistic development. This opening is what allows us to experience the real time experiences. Operas can detach ourselves from the locked reality and attach ourselves to free creativity.

 

3. It is an opportunity with a lot to gain

“There’s no harm in trying [opera] and there is only so much to be gained.” Another one of my favorite quotes from Stephania Romaniuk. It may cost money to watch an opera, but with what’s mentioned earlier, there’s a lot to gain from opera. The potential insight that we could gain from just one opera is unreal. There may be themes that you could understand when you watch the actual opera. In spite of that, the connections to real life are what’s gained way after witnessing the opera.

Appreciating the hard work done by the contributors and the literature itself can go a long way into our lives. Even if you don’t like the opera itself, there is still lots to learn from it. After all, a main purpose of operas themselves is to change us to become a better person upon reflection on their themes.

Opera singing next to piano player
Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

Opera Example: Don Giovanni

Woman
Image by bidocean from Pixabay

Part of my interview with Stephania Romaniuk included questions about Don Giovanni, an opera that was being performed at the time. Thanks to her perceptive information about it, I am able to establish the opera as a case study after all that’s said.

Don Giovanni is an opera all about consequences. As a condensed summary, Don Giovanni is shown as a seducer, rapier, liar, cunning murderer and is condemned for his actions against women. At the end, Don Giovanni is dragged to hell by the very man that he killed (which was also for his wrongdoings against women). This opera is more or less about the women and how they stand up against Don Giovanni and his wrongdoings. It is where the weight of justice is felt upon the audience, revealing how consequences can play a role in our lives.

 

So what can we learn from this opera example?

For starters, we can learn about standing up for ourselves. Mozart created this opera around the 1700s, but this message is still relevant today. It encourages us to have the confidence to fight for what’s right and to know that you aren’t alone. Second, it reveals the karma between our actions and consequences. This allows us to become aware of the cause and effect cycle of our actions, whether we intend them or not. Lastly, this condensed summary brings us the idea of acting in a way that we wish to be treated. Similar to the Golden Rule, where we treat others how we want to be treated, we are reminded to treat others in goodness. We are reminded to be confident, conscious of our actions, and kind in our daily lives.

There is much more to discover on your own than reading this condensed example.

Mozart's statue
Image by misterfarmer from Pixabay
– Mozart’s statue

Closing Statement

“The biggest doorway to opera is having open ears and an open heart.” My favorite quotation from my interview with Stephania Romaniuk, significant enough to be mentioned twice. Opera is commonly referred to as a dramatic representation of music in the theater world, but there is much more depth to that. It is made up to be witnessed, as well as performed, by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or other factors. They can teach more about life itself and how we can build ourselves to become better people for the future. For example, Don Giovanni teaches us the importance of standing up for ourselves and being aware of our actions. Opera is an opportunity that will benefit everyone, enlightening us and our actions. Beyond its musical appearance, operas can teach us more about life. You should go watch an opera!

New 7 Wonders Of The World: Christ The Redeemer

Bowen Zheng
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New 7 Wonders Of The World: Christ The Redeemer

 

Difference Between Old Wonder of World vs New:

The old Wonders of the World were typically constructed during the ancient Mediterranean and served the purpose of showcasing the architecture and style during that period of time. However, considering the fact that most of the Wonders are damaged beyond restoration and don’t accurately represent modern architecture, a global poll in 2007 was made to address this issue. In this poll, people were asked to choose a famous piece of architecture or landmark that they believed greatly represented contemporary art and style. By the end of the poll, the “Christ The Redeemer” was one of the structures that made the cut.

Christ The Redeemer

Christ The Redeemer is an iconic located in Rio De Janeiro. This statue is meant to represent Jesus Christ and it looms over the Corcovado Mountain and has become an influential symbol of Christianity. The statue was officially inaugurated on October, 12, 1931 and it stands at around ninety-eight feet and its wingspan is around ninety-two feet. Christ The Redeemer depicts a standing Jesus, holding his arms out, as if to embrace something.

Free Humped Christ The Redeemer photo and picture

Originally, the design for Christ The Redeemer, was supposed to have Jesus hold a globe in one hand, and a cross in the other. The project managers agreed with this initially, but the plan was cancelled. The people involved in this project was a Brazillian engineer: Heitor Da Silva Costa, as well as Albert Caquot, a French engineer. This statue is also notable one of the largest sculptures that incorporates the Art Deco style which is a style of visual arts. As well as serving a large religious symbol, it has also become a popular tourist attraction.

To Conclude…

Christ The Redeemer not only serves as an overarching symbol of Christianity, it has consolidated it’s importance as a tourist attraction and its position as one of the New Wonders Of The World. This statue is also a symbol of pride to Rio De Janeiro and its strategic placement on Corovado mountain has allowed it to become an admirable global landmark.

New York City Protest

Riley J
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New York City Protest

Across the United States, the political divide is growing deeper, particularly as the country prepares for the new administration set to take office in January 2025. Visible tensions are rising, especially regarding foreign policy decisions of the U.S. government. One of the most visible demonstrations took place in New York City, where protesters briefly disrupted the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The disruption was one of a series of similar incidents, as part of a growing grassroots movement in the U.S. opposing U.S. support for Israel’s actions in Gaza. The protesters were pushing for awareness about the growing victims of civilians in the war-torn region. They say U.S. support of Israel’s military actions is making the humanitarian situation in Gaza worse, affecting food, medicine, and safety for the people in the area. The protests reflect a more global outcry for a policy change by the U.S., with people from around the world calling for more to be done for Palestinian rights.

The emergent movement for an arms embargo against Israel is therefore gaining momentum. Proponents of this policy change believe that cutting off U.S. military aid to Israel may be an important first step toward reducing violence and suffering in Gaza. They believe that by withholding the flow of weapons and military assistance, the U.S. could force both Israel and the Palestinian factions toward peace talks and ultimately help bring an end to the violence affecting countless families. Calls for an embargo of this nature are not solely restricted to the U.S. but part of a global trend of people and organizations calling for more accountability with foreign policy, especially where blatant human rights abuses occur. Demonstrators and activists have echoed the voices of the afflicted in Gaza, calling on the U.S. government to reevaluate its involvement in the conflict and to prioritize humanitarian causes.

This protest and larger movement represent a seismic shift in the way many Americans, and indeed people around the world, are viewing the United States’ involvement in foreign conflicts. The United States has traditionally been looked upon as a staunch stalwart ally of the State of Israel, providing enormous military and financial support. Yet, as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, more and more are starting to question what that support truly means on the ground. More and more Americans are voicing that the U.S. needs to step up and actually represent Palestinians, asking for a recasting of United States policy in the Middle East.

With the growth of public concern for the issue, debates about US foreign policy and human rights are going to continue shaping the course of political debate for years to come. Protests are mounting, policy change demands are getting louder and louder; it is clear that U.S. international conflict involvement, especially around the Middle East, does not and will not be at ease anytime soon. It is anyone’s guess how the new administration will answer the pressure, but certainly all these issues will have significant roles to play in political discourse as transition into 2025 looms. And all these show that the people want an increasingly balanced way of handling foreign policy, and this may play a very key role in how the U.S. would engage with future conflicts around the world.

Malala Yousafzai: One Voice That Changed the World

Areej C
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0
Malala Yousafzai: One Voice That Changed the World

Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist and UN Messenger of Peace who advocates for girl’s rights to education around the world. Born and raised in Mingora, Pakistan, her life changed in 2008 when the TTP (Pakistani Taliban) invaded her hometown, banning numerous freedoms, including girls attending school. Refusing to accept this, Malala and her father publicly spoke out against the Taliban’s oppressive policies, making her a target. At just 15 years old, she was shot in the face by a Taliban gunman while on a school bus. Remarkably, she survived the assassination attempt and emerged even stronger, continuing her fight for education rights.

In 2014, at the age of 17, Malala became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, honored for her advocacy for children’s rights. After relocating to the UK for safety, she founded the Malala Fund. Her organization supports emerging activists and breaks barriers preventing girls from accessing education. As outlined on its website, “Malala Fund believes that real change for girls’ education happens at the local level.” The fund provides resources to countries like Afghanistan, Brazil, Ethiopia, India, Lebanon, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, ensuring girls receive 12 years of free, safe, and quality education.

Malala’s story highlights resilience as her defining leadership quality. Despite facing death threats and unimaginable fear as a teenager, she refused to let fear dictate her life. Instead, she transformed her personal tragedy into a global movement for change. Her resilience not only enabled her to recover and advocate for others, but also inspired countless girls worldwide to stand up against those who suppress their rights. Through her efforts and the Malala Fund, she has empowered millions to demand the education they deserve, proving that resilience can create lasting, impactful change.

Sources: 1

 



 

First Impressions: Does It Really Matter?

Kheta
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0
First Impressions: Does It Really Matter?

Whether it be the first day of school or a job interview, first impressions greatly influence how people will behave around you and what impact you may bring. Humans naturally assume people based on apparent details, even if they want to be unbiased. Some important attributes will always be observed, no matter how hard one tries to ignore them. Our solution towards our bias and assumption is to go based on someone’s personality or features that make them unique rather than the negativity. As they say, “You should never judge a book by its cover”. In reality, we face the crisis of first impressions quite often, especially considering that we are in a phase in life where opportunities are limitless and interactions become a crucial part of our day-to-day lives.

Though we cannot prevent bias or change the way a person thinks about us, our approach should focus on understanding the reason behind the first impression, so that the next time you come across a first impression situation, you are far more prepared!

 

Why do humans have first impressions?

Humans use the first piece of knowledge we have to create a viewpoint. First impressions tell us about a person’s character traits, way of communication, preferences, and other aspects. These elements then go into concluding whether or not the individual is typical or unusual. Peter Mende-Siedlecki gives a great example of this in his TED-ED video. He asks to pretend that you are in a football game and the unknown person beside you starts acting obnoxious. After a few days, you encounter the same individual at a park. However, this time, they offer you an umbrella because it’s raining. Here, you would likely hold a negative stance about this person because offering an umbrella is a typical gesture in comparison to the obnoxious behaviour at the football field. The human brain is inclined towards negativity over positivity, likely creating a negative impression. The same goes for an interview or the first day of school in which you build preferences based on your current knowledge!

The Halo Effect

Even though the human brain is prone to negativity, it doesn’t always have to be that way. Scientists explain the flip side of first impressions through The Halo effect. The Halo effect is the “mental shortcut” that makes someone assume positive things about someone based on one good thing. In other words, because you like one trait of that individual, you tend to associate other positive traits about them too! For instance, if a new kid offers you a seat on the first day of school, you would be more likely to start a conversation with them because you think they are trustworthy, polite, and easygoing.

 

What elements are most commonly noticed in a first impression?

The answer to this question is based on the person. However, humans are far more likely to focus on non-verbal/visual cues in comparison to the content you are communicating. A Forbes article explains that the human brain develops and processes a first impression in the first seven seconds of a new interaction! (When I first read this, I was shocked) Can you believe it? Only 7 seconds. 

So the next question is what can be seen in the first 7 seconds? Well, most of it will be your appearance; this includes your posture, the level of confidence shown through body language, whether or not your clothes match the occasion, and how you choose to approach the person.

How to Prepare for your next first impression:

After understanding the brief reasons of how and why first impressions exist, we also want to be prepared for future job interviews or interactions that could determine your future. Make sure to keep in mind that the most important thing beyond all of these aspects is being yourself. Nobody wants to meet someone who switches personalities on the second interaction. Thus, you must be true because no matter what you are awesome!

Here are some other things that you should keep in mind:

 

  1. Posture: As I mentioned above, posture portrays your mindset. If you have a bad posture, people will associate you with being lazy, slow, and uninterested, whereas a good posture reflects confidence and affability.
  2. Eye Contact: Eye contact is hard to develop and it takes a lot of courage and effort, especially as a youth. With correct eye contact, you can assure the other person that you know what you’re doing and can be trusted.
  3. Calm: Even though you want to be approachable, you must make sure that you are not oversharing. This can make it harder to start a conversation and may raise slight concern for the opposing person.
  4. Cleanliness: Cleanliness can be seen in several ways: good breath, neutral outfit colors, body odor or combed hair. Every individual has different ways of maintaining purity, but the overall goal is to be presentable. For instance, you would probably not want to come on the first day of school without doing your hair or taking a shower.
  5. Smile Please: Multiple reputable sources claim that smiling makes you feel positive about yourself because it releases endorphins. Similarly, smiling at someone can make them feel better about themselves too!
  6. Handshakes: This one is more focused towards formal interactions, such as an interview, though it is equally as important as the rest of the factors. A good and firm handshake shows your confidence, engagement and commitment.

 

Conclusion:

“ You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” -Will rogers

A first impression is a skill that can only be mastered with experience and time. Nevertheless, understanding why and how first impressions are created gives you a head start toward success. This can be seen in the creation of new friendships or a job interview. Our goal is to develop a stronger skill set to become the best versions of ourselves. 

Sources:

https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/halo-effect

https://ed.ted.com/lessons/should-you-trust-your-first-impression-peter-mende-siedlecki

https://medium.com/personal-growth/the-art-and-science-of-making-great-first-impressions-ea702280e5c3

https://lovethatsmile.com/dental-articles/benefits-of-smiling-8-unbelievable-reasons-to-smile-more

https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolkinseygoman/2011/02/13/seven-seconds-to-make-a-first-impression/#97d26b8645aa

https://medium.com/personal-growth/the-art-and-science-of-making-great-first-impressions-ea702280e5c3

https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolkinseygoman/2011/02/13/seven-seconds-to-make-a-first-impression/#97d26b8645aa

 

https://institute.uschamber.com/what-makes-a-good-first-impression/#:~:text=We%20have%20all%20heard%20the,words%20you%20say%20(verbal).

 

Beauty and the Beast: Diana’s death. Blood on Charles’ hands..?

Mahnoor Altaf
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0
Beauty and the Beast: Diana’s death. Blood on Charles’ hands..?

A tale, a conspiracy, and a plotted murder—all at the hands of those she once called family. In today’s post, we’ll take a look into the death of Princess Diana. One that has never been truly witnessed by anyone other than those in the vehicle. This tragedy sparked curiosity among the people of England. It led to a huge question that has lasted decades: “Was Diana’s death a murder plotted by the royal family?”

Let’s dive into the evidence suggesting that Princess Diana’s death was not the accident it appeared to be.

1. Who is Diana?

Diana, Princess of Wales, born on July 1, 1961. She was the first wife of King Charles, whom she married on July 29, 1981.

Adored in England for her charity work, which included becoming president of more than 100 charities. She raised awareness about initiatives aimed at supporting those struggling with homelessness, disabilities, HIV/AIDS, drug addiction, etc.

Unfortunately, Diana met the end of her life on August 31, 1997.

2. Official Reason for Princess Diana’s Death

In Paris, France, after she and her partner, Dodi Fayed, were rudely interrupted by paparazzi while dining at a restaurant, they decided to have dinner in their suite. The two were later escorted into a Mercedes by their driver, Henri Paul, along with Diana’s bodyguard, Trevor Rees-Jones. At around midnight, in the Pont de l’Alma Paris tunnel, the car crashed, resulting in the deaths of Diana, Al-Fayed, and the driver, as well as serious injuries to Diana’s bodyguard. It was later revealed that Henri Paul had been speeding and under the influence of alcohol. None of the passengers, except the bodyguard, were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

3. Dodi Fayed: Diana’s Lover

Dodi Fayed, the Egyptian son of billionaire businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed, was Diana’s partner at the time of her death.

Al-Fayed strongly believed that MI6 (British Secret Intelligence Service) and the royal family were behind the “accident,” claiming that Diana was pregnant with Dodi’s child. He argued that the royal family could not accept the possibility of a Muslim Egyptian becoming the stepfather of the future king of England.

The royal family has a history of racism, as seen with Prince Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle, who confessed to facing racism from members of the royal family due to her being half African-American.

4. The Bodyguard (Trevor Rees-Jones)

Let’s examine the bodyguard who accompanied Diana the night of the accident and somehow managed to be the only survivor. As the sole witness of the crash, Rees-Jones stated that he didn’t believe the conspiracy theory that Diana’s death was planned. Al-Fayed, however, thought otherwise.

Al-Fayed did not trust Rees-Jones, knowing that he was a former member of the British Army, leading Al-Fayed to suspect that Rees-Jones was an MI6 agent.

A former MI6 officer claimed that Diana was killed by people he used to work for. This officer alleged that MI6 planned to use strobe lights to blind the driver and cause a crash, a method taught in MI6 training.

5. Diana’s Butler (Paul Burrell)

Six years after the accident occurred, Paul Burrell leaked a letter Diana had sent to him predicting her death. The letter stated:

“This particular phase in my life is the most dangerous. My husband is planning an ‘accident’ in my car, brake failure, or some serious head injury in order to make the path clear for him to marry.”

Burrell claimed that he and Diana spent a day at her home moving furniture and pulling up carpets to search for hidden MI6 bugs, tying into the theory that MI6 plotted her death.

The letter also mentioned how Diana believed that a former bodyguard with whom she had

fallen in love—who died in a motorbike accident—was “bumped off” (killed). This adds to the narrative of the suspicious demises of Diana’s lovers (including Dodi Fayed).

6. At the Scene

For some reason, the cameras, which worked perfectly moments before the accident, had inexplicably turned away from the crash. Additionally, on the road leading to the tunnel, a white car caused Diana’s driver to swerve sharply to avoid a collision. This white car was never found. The driver accidentally made contact with the white car, causing its taillight to break, before the white car sped away seconds before the crash. This raises the question: could the driver have been trying to prevent anyone else from entering the tunnel?

Conclusion

In today’s article, we’ve explored the evidence supporting the conspiracy surrounding Princess Diana’s death. From her relationship with Dodi Fayed, allegedly disapproved of by the royal family due to racism and Islamophobia, to the survival of her bodyguard—who was potentially linked to MI6—this mystery remains controversial. We also examined a former MI6 officer’s claims, a letter predicting her death, and the mysterious driver.

However, keep in mind that this article is meant purely to highlight a conspiracy. Take it with a grain of salt.

How To Change Your Music Listening Habits

S.R. Spencer
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0
How To Change Your Music Listening Habits

We all have our favorite songs. Unfortunately, if we continue to listen to those songs, it is inevitable we will eventually grow sick of them, requiring us to find new songs we like to avoid this problem. Here are five habits to develop which could help you find more songs you enjoy

  • Listen to Albums, Not Songs

Instead of finding an enjoyable song and solely listening to that, once you find a song you like, look up the album it’s a part of and listen to that instead. If it’s a single release, take a listen to one or two of the artists’ other albums. By focusing on albums themselves, you open yourself up to more songs which are likely to be similar to the song you like.

  • Repeat Listening

Listening to a song is easy. Being able to appreciate it is harder. If you only give a song a single pass, you may fail to truly understand the song and its contents. By listening to a song multiple times and getting familiar with it, you may find that a song you previously thought was a “skip” is your new favorite.

  • Listen for the sake of listening

For many of us, listening to music isn’t an activity on its own. Whenever we do listen to music, it’s because we’re trying to pass the time while studying, or driving, or walking, etc. But by putting music on in the background, it’s easy to tune it out and potentially skip over songs you may enjoy. If you have some free time, simply just sit down and listen to music on its own. By giving the full focus of your mind to the music itself, you can better engage with and appreciate the intricacies of every song.

  • Use Headphones

Lots of songs are stereophonic, meaning that two separate audio channels (for example, two separate ears of a headphone) are used to create a more realistic listening experience. By using headphones which can pick up these stereophonic sounds, such as audio coming from different directions in a room, you can unlock the true composition of the song that the artist intended. 

  • Go to concerts

Although the hefty price of concert tickets may discourage even the most avid of fans, listening to an artist live is probably the best way to experience their work. Live performances bring back all of the emotions, energy, and power of a song that are often disconnected from the listener when they listen online. By listening to music live, you reconnect that lost power, and not only get to see your favourite artists but also truly ‘experience’ their work.

Sources:

  1. Do You Follow These Tips For Better Music Listening?
  2. Expand your music listening skills, before targeting your songwriting for artists
  3. Your Brain Feels Better When Music Is Live, Not Recorded: Study

Warm Up This Winter: A Guide to Banff’s Best Hot Chocolates!

Elizabeth Aluko
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2
Warm Up This Winter: A Guide to Banff’s Best Hot Chocolates!

As the winter chill settles over Banff, there’s no better way to warm up than with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff transforms into a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking snowy landscapes, cozy fireside retreats, and, of course, some of the best hot chocolates you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, embarking on a hot chocolate trail through Banff is a delightful way to experience the season’s magic.

The Winter Season in Banff


Winter in Banff is nothing short of enchanting. The town is blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a fairy tale. The crisp mountain air, the twinkling lights adorning the streets, and the festive atmosphere make it a perfect destination for winter enthusiasts. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and snowshoeing, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Even so, after a day of outdoor adventures, nothing beats the comfort of a rich, velvety hot chocolate.

The Hot Chocolate Trail


Banff is home to several charming cafes and eateries that serve up some of the most decadent hot chocolates. Here’s a guide to some must-visit spots on your hot chocolate trail:

1. Wild Flour Bakery

Start your journey at Wild Flour Bakery, a beloved local spot known for its artisanal baked goods and cozy ambiance. Their hot chocolate is made with high-quality cocoa and topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with one of their freshly baked pastries for the ultimate treat.

2. Evelyn’s Coffee Bar

Next, head to Evelyn’s Coffee Bar, a quaint cafe that offers a variety of hot chocolate flavors. From classic milk chocolate to spicy Mexican hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone. The cozy seating and friendly staff make it a perfect place to relax and warm up.

3. Whitebark Cafe

Whitebark Cafe is another gem in Banff, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Their hot chocolate is made with organic ingredients and can be customized with various milk options, including almond and oat milk. Enjoy your drink while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

4. The Juniper Bistro

For a more upscale experience, visit The Juniper Bistro. Their hot chocolate is a luxurious blend of dark chocolate and cream, served with a side of homemade marshmallows. The bistro’s cozy fireplace and panoramic views make it an ideal spot for a winter afternoon.

 

Fascinating Facts!

  • Hot Chocolate Passport: Some cafes offer a “Hot Chocolate Passport” that you can stamp at each location. Collect all the stamps to win a special prize!
  • Unique Toppings: Cafes top their hot chocolates with creative and Instagram-worthy toppings, from toasted marshmallows to edible glitter.
  • Secret Recipes: Many cafes use their own secret hot chocolate recipes, passed down through generations, making each cup unique.
  • Local Ingredients: Cafes make some hot chocolates with locally sourced ingredients, including Canadian maple syrup and Alberta dairy, adding a local twist to the classic drink.
  • Hot Chocolate Flights: A few spots offer hot chocolate flights, allowing you to sample mini versions of different flavors in one sitting.
  • Themed Decor: Many cafes decorate with winter-themed decor, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere that enhances the hot chocolate experience.

Embrace the Winter Spirit

As you sip your way through Banff’s hot chocolate offerings, take the time to embrace the winter spirit. Wander through the snow-covered streets, visit the local shops, and enjoy the festive decorations. Banff’s winter charm is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the season.

So, bundle up, grab your favourite mug, and embark on a hot chocolate adventure in Banff. It’s the perfect way to warm up this winter and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. ¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵

 

 

Is Public Transit Truly Safe for Youth?

Suha A
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0
Is Public Transit Truly Safe for Youth?

 

Public transit is a vital method of transport for Calgarians. The fare is relatively affordable (although adult tickets may be getting more expensive) and transit stops are widely spread throughout the city. Students have been using these services frequently to get to school and other locations throughout the city.

Safety has been a matter of discussion between the City of Calgary and transit users for a while now, and the City has attempted to do their part and alleviate these worries.

Although, with incidents involving youth on transit going unreported, it stirs questions in the minds of parents and teenagers alike. Is Calgary transit safe for youth?

Background Information: Issues with Safety on Transit Services in the Past

The City of Calgary enforced new safety measures last year due to complaints about the increase in crimes on public trains and buses. The sharp upwards trend in dangerous incidents began during and after the pandemic.

According to Elise Stolte from CBC news, around 47% of Calgarians who participated in a City of Calgary survey claimed that they felt unsafe taking transit last year.

To respond to this, the City strengthened safety measures. They increased the number of peace officers present at stations, introduced transit security guards, placed more CCTV cameras into place, and more. They even have a special phone number that riders can call or text to report an incident.

Their efforts were not put to waste! Data from the City of Calgary shows a downwards trend at the start of 2024 in transit incidents, specifically in overdoses, graffiti, and broken glass.

When CBC News surveyed a small selection people at the start of 2024, most found Calgary transit to be improved from the past. They felt it was clean and safe. Most felt more comfortable using it during the daytime, with only 34% feeling safe waiting for the train or bus after dark.

Focusing on the Younger Population: Recent Cases Causing New Questions to Arise

Reading articles on the internet, I found that youth had not been surveyed on how they felt using public transportation. It is bizarre seeing all the positive reviews about Calgary transit by reliable sources online. Especially when I frequently hear reports from my peers involving crimes they saw being committed against them or someone else on these transportation vehicles.

Just a few weeks ago, multiple sexual assaults were reported by the riders of a Calgary transit bus.

Last week, our teacher informed us about his neighbor who had been brutally assaulted on his walk home from the bus stop. The man was arrested and the young adult was hospitalized, but the anxiety induced by this incident is a burden on the shoulders of the youth. The people living in the community where this took place remain unaware.

There have been other incidents where my female friends spoke to me about older men approaching them on the bus. They became angry and even violent if they didn’t share their personal information. These situations are not reported to higher authority and take place frequently.

These recent cases are a stark contrast to the positive data displayed by articles online from the beginning of the year. Is it possible that this data is now outdated, and Calgary transit is becoming decreasingly safe for the younger population?

Different Perceptions of Safety: Mixed Opinions from Younger Riders

I asked youth in my community about how they felt using public transit in 2024. The biggest differences in opinions were between people who were frequent users of transit and new riders.

My friends who began to use transit recently claimed that they felt unsafe on the trains and buses. They’re exposed to a whole new side of the city that they had been almost ‘sheltered’ from before.

They see Calgarians suffering from addiction and people without homes sleeping on the benches at stations. They never truly feel safe with the other riders present, especially at nighttime. For some of my friends, their parents do not allow them to use public transportation services after 6 p.m. This is believed to be the most incident-prone time period.

On the flip side, my friend who has been using transit for a couple years now claimed that the environment on the public vehicles was getting better. Not completely perfect, but better than usual. She has witnessed the state of Calgary transit during the pandemic and expressed enthusiasm about the improvements she has seen.

The youth also stated that it made no sense to fear the entire system due to a few outstanding incidents. She witnessed a few minor incidents but was never part of any. She stressed the fact that the people you see around the stations are usually harmless.

This longtime rider feels safe using public transit because of all the people around her. She trusts that the peace officers are there to help in the case of an emergency.

These conflicting opinions are difficult to make solid conclusions from. Youth perceive safety differently due to their different experiences. For someone who has witnessed worse conditions, our public transportation system is doing well in terms of safety. For newer users, there is a long way to go before they are accustomed to this environment.

Conclusions

Despite the starkly contrasting perspectives, most people can agree that there is always room for growth and improvement. The City of Calgary’s public transportation services have come a long way in terms of safety.

Looking at more recent cases, some tweaks could be made to the strategy currently in place. A few examples include incorporating youth-led initiatives that focus on this issue and safer bus stops with more surveillance.

By getting youth involved in an issue regarding their safety, their past experiences can aid the City, making public transport safer for the upcoming generation. The younger riders will know which solutions will work the best, and major improvements could be made.

Since it is a public service, Calgary transit is not 100% safe. There will always be outstanding incidents that take place.

I believe that with a focus on proper safety measures for youth, public transit can become a more sought-after method of transport for students in our city– rather than being the ‘last option’ that a student has to be anxious of.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

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Youth Are Awesome, commonly referred to as YAA, is a blog written by youth for youth. YAA provides the youth of Calgary a place to amplify their voices and perspectives on what is happening around them. Youth Are Awesome is a program of Youth Central.

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