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.
Education is the foundation of a thriving society, yet many young people across the world face barriers to accessing quality learning opportunities. According to UNESCO, approximately 258 million children and youth were out of school globally in 2018, highlighting significant gaps in educational access. From outdated curricula and unequal resources to rising student debt and lack of mental health support in schools, education reform has become one of the most pressing issues of our time. Youth advocacy is playing a crucial role in pushing for change and ensuring that education meets the needs of today’s generation.
Education is more than just academics—it shapes our futures, opportunities, and personal growth. Advocacy in education means speaking up for better policies, equal access, and meaningful reforms that help students thrive. Young people are using their voices to push for changes that make education more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of real-world challenges.
What’s Happening
Many young advocates are fighting for improvements in education, focusing on issues such as equitable access, mental health support, modernizing curriculums, and affordability. In the United States, projections indicate that public elementary and secondary school enrollment will reach 51.4 million students by 2025, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to accommodate this growing population. The increasing pressures of academics, social expectations, and global uncertainty have led to rising mental health concerns among students. Studies have shown that youth advocacy programs can enhance participants’ confidence in advocacy, knowledge of resources, and engagement in advocacy behaviors, contributing to improved mental health outcomes.
Many students feel disconnected from what they learn in school because curricula often fail to address contemporary issues, financial literacy, life skills, and diverse perspectives. Youth activists are advocating for educational reforms that prepare students for real-world challenges. Furthermore, the global education market, valued at approximately $7.6 trillion, is primarily funded by governments, which contribute 60-70% of total education spending. Despite this investment, higher education remains financially out of reach for many students due to rising tuition costs and student loans. Advocacy groups are calling for tuition reforms, increased scholarships, and policies that reduce student debt burdens.
Taking Action
You don’t need to be a politician or an educator to make a difference. There are many ways students and young advocates can contribute to education reform. Raising awareness by sharing stories, data, and personal experiences about education challenges on social media and in communities is a powerful powersful way to do so. Engaging with school leaders and policymakers by attending school board meetings, starting petitions, or writing letters to education officials can lead to concrete changes. Supporting student organizations by joining or creating a student-led group focused on educational reform and student rights allows for collective action. Volunteering in education programs by tutoring younger students, supporting after-school programs, or getting involved with nonprofit organizations working on education initiatives is another impactful way to contribute. Pushing for curriculum changes by working with teachers and administrators to advocate for lessons that include diverse perspectives, life skills, and mental health education ensures that learning remains relevant and beneficial for students.
TL;DR
Education shapes the future, and young voices are essential in shaping the education system. Whether it’s advocating for mental health resources, pushing for affordable higher education, or fighting for equal opportunities, every action counts. If we want an education system that truly supports and prepares students for the future, we must be willing to speak up and demand change. What changes would you like to see in education? Now is the time to advocate for a system that works for everyone.
Over the last couple of decades, women in sports have risen from the sidelines to center stage, breaking barriers and changing the face of athletics worldwide. Among the most exciting developments in recent years, there had been the growth of leagues like the Women’s International National Basketball Association, or WINBA, which showcases the incredible talent of female basketball players.
While it is still striving to get the same attention as the NBA, WINBA is doing great, building its name and should be more present in media appearances. The face of women’s basketball has dramatically changed due to Lisa Leslie, Diana Taurasi, and Maya Moore, who have given ways to young budding talents coming up the ranks. Despite this, there are apparent gaps in women’s basketball in terms of media attention and sponsorships compared to men’s basketball. Without visibility, it would be really hard for a league like WINBA to take another growth dimension and recognition of sports persons.
In fact, visibility of the WINBA is very important for growth. While women’s sports are on the rise around the world, there is still a need for more exposure through the media. It is time for networks, sponsors, and sports media to give airtime and invest as much money into women’s basketball as men’s sports have received over the years. With better coverage, the WINBA will achieve more substantial audiences and sponsorship deals, bringing additional opportunities for the players.
More representation on screen means more inspiration for young girls who want to play professional basketball. The likes of athletes in the WINBA inspire the next generation to chase their dreams and break barriers. The players of WINBA have already shown skill, passion, and drive, and they deserve the same respect accorded to male athletes.
Furthermore, this is not about mere equality for athletes; it is more about recognizing and appreciating the worth that women bring into the world of sports. Women athletes are not just competing; they are creating culture, challenging norms, and inspiring social change. From using their platform to advocate for gender equality to setting new standards on the court, female athletes continue to prove that their stories are just as compelling and impactful as of men. Giving more screen time to the WINBA is not only celebrating women in sport, but also giving a whole movement of inclusivity and diversity within athletics a lift.
With the WINBA still growing, it is about time the media notice and give greater attention to coverage of women’s sports. It’s time for a change. Women in basketball, like their male counterparts, work hard, train tirelessly, and compete at the highest level and it’s time for the world to watch.
Depending on your knowledge of the cosmos and the laws of thermodynamics, you may or may not have heard of the fascinating concept of Heat Death. Nevertheless, this article will cover almost all the fundamental ideas associated with the universe’s Heat Death and how this may impact the world.
Before we dive into heat death, we must discuss the second law of thermodynamics. The law states that: “in any natural process, the total entropy of a system and its surroundings always increases.” Entropy is commonly termed as disorder; however, this does not have to do with how organized something is but rather how many possible states there are. For example, if you have 4 different colored marbles in a box, each placed in one corner, that is one state. Now, how many possible states/rearrangements can you organize these marbles into? In such a case, having more possible states means you have more entropy.
What is the Heat Death?
The simple way of putting the heat death is an occurrence where the universe can no longer function in which no processes will occur. Keep in mind this process happens gradually and will take place in 10^100 to 10^1000 years.
The Science Behind It:
April 18, 2022. Placidplace. Pixabay
When entropy is applied to the real world, we are referring to how disordered the universe can be as a system. As we complete our everyday tasks, every person adds heat to the overall system. On the larger scale, the universe increases its entropy as stars burn their fuel and cosmic expansion occurs. Such behaviors will decrease the efficiency of heat transfer in the entire universe. In previous grades, you may have heard of things naturally going from hot to cold; a hot cup of coffee cooling down upon sitting on the table. This transfer from hot to cold is crucial in regulating natural processes, hence maintaining lower entropy. Conversely, when galaxies continue to spread out, the universe will lose its ability to transfer heat. This inability to transfer heat will result in isolation and equilibrium of temperatures everywhere. When equilibrium and isolation occur, the entropy of the universe will be at its maximum (extremely disordered). In conclusion, as stars burn, the universe expands, releasing heat, and when the universe reaches thermal equilibrium, the universe will have to face the Heat Death of the Universe.
What Does This Mean For Earth?
March 1, 2021. NASA. Unsplash
As I stated earlier, the Heat Death of the Universe is 10^100-10^1000 years away, and therefore no concern will arise for humanity or even Earth! The human population has evolved for 6 million years, and it will continue to evolve, considering that we are nowhere near the last species on earth. The more tangible question should be what will happen to Earth?
In terms of the next billion years, Earth will no longer remain a habitable place for any life as the sun will evolve into a red giant, which will eventually have the capacity to engulf earth. Additionally, the sun’s escalating radiation will make the planet torrid, and the oceans will ideally evaporate, leaving nothing but an abiotic environment with extreme temperatures.
Takeaway:
December 18, 2016. Jeffrey Wegrzyn. Unsplash
While the destruction of life on Earth may seem haunting, science assures you that humanity is nowhere near destruction, hence there is no need for concern. The main takeaway from this article should be centered around obtaining knowledge about the marvellous capabilities of science to determine the future. The next time your coffee cools down, be grateful for the heat transfers and natural phenomena!
Have you ever met somebody that only has 1 kidney? It may be surprising, but many people don’t have every single organ they were born with. In fact, 1 in 1000-2000 babies are born without a kidney. It’s even estimated that 1 in 100 people end up losing one of their kidneys throughout their lifetime. You may be wondering how it’s possible for certain people to live without specific organs. This phenomenon is due to multiple reasons. Firstly, evolution has altered how our bodies handle change. Our body’s basic functions have allowed us to adapt when an organ goes missing. In short, the human body has a wonderful ability to adapt to changes that occur inside of it. This allows for survival in situations where an organ is lost. It also turns out that being able to live without an organ isn’t entirely unique to the kidney. There are actually multiple organs in the human body that are not fully required for life. So what organs are you able to live without? Today, I’ll be covering 10 different organs that aren’t required to live. However, to fully understand what organs aren’t required to live, it’s important to look at some unanswered questions like what an organ even is, or why we have them if not all of them are needed.
More on Organs
No, I’m not referring to the musical instrument when I say there are organs we’re able to live without. An organ, by definition, refers to part of an organism’s body that has a particular vital purpose, such as the heart or the brain. Organs are specialized structures in our bodies that handle specific jobs, allowing our body to function. Some commonly known organ functions include the heart pumping blood throughout the body, or the kidneys filtering waste to create urine.
So why do we have them if we don’t need all of them? To put it simply, it’s believed that over time, through evolution, many organs have either lost their function or are no longer as vital as they used to be. This is primarily due to how long the process of evolution takes. Simple evolution, such as a bird’s beak changing shape or the changing color of a moth’s wings, can take up to 30-50 years. Due to this long process, some of these “useless” organs in modern times are believed to be simply remnants of past functions that we have yet to get rid of, with the prime example of this being wisdom teeth in humans. Knowing this, it’s safe to say that almost every organ in our body at one point in time was either necessary for survival or way more important than current times lead us to believe.
Note: Before you continue reading, please note that I am not a doctor, and this blog should not be taken as medical advice. Instead, consider it as entertainment and an opportunity to learn something new, rather than as a source of serious medical guidance. It’s also important to note that every human being is different, meaning that while someone may be able to live without a specific organ, it doesn’t mean the entire population is able to.
Organs You Can Live Without
1. Kidney
As previously mentioned, you can live with just one kidney. The kidneys are incredibly efficient and are made up of millions of nephrons. Due to us having two super-efficient waste management machines, when one kidney goes, the other increases its filtration capacity, essentially allowing it to do the job of two kidneys while still acting as only one. It’s because of the incredible efficiency that we’re able to live with just one. The kidney, specifically, has done wonders for the world of organ donating. If almost everybody has two, and you’re pretty much fine to live with one, it makes an incredibly easy decision for some people to donate one of their kidneys, saving thousands of lives and making the availability of fresh functional organs vast.
Not only is the lung incredibly tough and adaptable, but just like the kidney, the fact that we have two of them means we’re able to lose one while the other takes its place. Many people have even gone on record to live with only one lung. However, unlike the kidney, losing a lung is much more serious. While it is possible to live and thrive with only one, significant lifestyle adjustments must be made. That doesn’t mean it’s all bad though. In recent years, the world has been catering to people with shortness of breath through more accessibility features and adjustments, such as stricter air pollution guidelines, a significant increase in public resting spaces, designated smoking areas away from the general public, and reserved parking spaces. In the medical world, portable oxygen devices and breathing aids are on the rise, and unions have even ensured flexible working hours for those with conditions such as this.
The appendix is a small structure attached to the large intestine. For years, this digestive organ was considered completely useless, and many people have gone on to live without it. However, more recent research suggests that it may serve an immune function. It’s believed that, due to the appendix containing lymphoid tissue, it has the ability to help fight infection. What was once deemed useless now has a potential purpose, highlighting the incredible way science and the scientific methods are constantly evolving.
4. Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a small organ located under the liver. Its main function is to store bile, a waste product produced by the liver. While the gallbladder plays an important role in the digestive system, the body can adapt if it’s removed. Without a gallbladder, the body simply reduces the amount of bile produced and delivers it to the small intestine in much smaller doses. Losing the gallbladder is a common occurrence, and while the surgery to remove it is serious, the loss of the gallbladder does not significantly affect daily life. After the surgery, most people are able to manage through slight dietary modifications.
5. Spleen
The spleen is a small organ inside your left rib cage that filters blood and makes white blood cells as a part of your lymphatic system. The main reason we’re able to live without a spleen is because many other organs, such as the liver, can take over its main function. Losing your spleen does not mean death. However, you’re more at risk to infections in the future.
6. Tonsils
Removing your tonsils is an incredibly common thing, especially amongst children. The tonsils are two oval shaped lymph nodes in the back of your mouth. Their main function is to filter out bacteria that comes through your mouth and nose. We’re able to live without them because other organs are able to take over, and simply filtering bacteria doesn’t mean life or death.
7. Adenoids
Very similar to tonsils, the adenoids are a patch of lymphoid tissue that sits at the back of the nasal passage. We are able to live without them due to them being more a safety measure, and other organs, such as tonsils, do a very similar job. Unlike tonsils, the general public is a lot less familiar with the adenoids. If you’ve never heard of the adenoids before reading this blog, we’d love to hear from you! Comment down below!
8. Large Intestine and Specific Parts of The Small Intestine
Your small intestine primarily absorbs nutrients from digested food, while the large intestine absorbs water and forms stool for excretion. Both are integral to the digestive process. While in some cases the removal of the entire small intestine can be problematic, specific portions of the intestines and even the entirety of the large intestine can be removed without being fatal. However, just like most organs, the loss of these require a significant change in life style.
Many reproductive organs such as testes, ovaries, uterus, and prostate aren’t required to live. However, losing these also means losing the ability to reproduce.
10. Pancreas
The pancreas actually has two different roles in the body! One in the digestive system, where it produces enzymes to help digest food, and another in the endocrine system, where it plays an integral role in regulating hormones. While it is possible to live without a pancreas, its crucial functions make it vital for digestion. Without it, proper medication are required to manage blood sugar levels and aid in the digestive process.
Summary
While many organs serve vital roles, not all of them are required to live. For example, we can live with one singular kidney and lung. A lot of the reproductive and digestive organs are also not vital. Even some previously deemed useless organs may have more of a use than we initially thought. It’s honestly really fascinating just how well the human body is able to adapt to change.
Nothing feeds the mind like a good trip to a science fair. Especially if you’re participating as a contestant!
There are truly so many aspects of the world that are being explored, and I feel astonished at the sheer number of young aspiring scientists and children with the drive to explore their inquiries. I think it’s truly amazing how creative youth are, and it’s truly so lucky that we have this opportunity.
I’ve participated in the Calgary Youth Science Fair twice before, and I’ll be returning for a third time in a few days. The reason I keep going back is because I find it so rewarding. In this article, I’ll discuss 5 of the biggest benefits.
1. Overcoming the Imposter Syndrome
For those who don’t know, the imposter syndrome is an effect where you feel like you are less qualified to be in the environment that you’re in. This makes you feel like an “imposter”, as if you’re a secretly inadequate individual hiding among people who know more and are more capable than you. Funny enough, this feeling of secret isolation is a syndrome, which means it happens to many people.
It’s particularly relevant at the Calgary Youth Science Fair, where you are greeted with thousands upon thousands of giant trifolds set up in the Calgary Olympic Oval. Most students spend months, if not years, researching, experimenting, and innovating, so this is often quite intimidating. You’re faced with research and work that has taken so long to do, from so many individuals, that your own project sometimes seems to diminish.
Fear not. You can do this!
It’s such a humbling experience, knowing that so many other people have worked incredibly hard to get their work out there. But attending the fair will also teach you that even when you feel overwhelmed, you can’t forget that you have worked incredibly hard as well. You deserve your spot in the forest of trifolds, and constant exposure to the excellence of others will remind you of the importance of overcoming the imposter syndrome.
2. Experiencing Research
For many of us exploring career fields, we don’t get too much first-hand experience. The CYSF is one of the best ways to get experience in doing research (or as close as you can get when you’re still a grade-level student most of the time).
You have to do background research, come up with a meaningful topic, research and experiment, analyze your data, and then find a way to present all your work within five minutes to a judge on the spot. Oftentimes you’ll also have to cold-email professors and experts in the field, which is time-consuming and frustrating when response rates are low.
But it’s also an incredibly rewarding way to explore your passion. And if you think you might want to go into research, or if you’re wondering about a career direction, consider participating in the CYSF for the experience. It is one of the only research-resembling experiences for elementary to high school students available.
3. Learning to Explain
Learning to explain a complex topic that has taken months, if not years, to learn and explore within the five minutes in which you have the judges’ attention is crucial. And so, the science fair helps you learn to explain complex ideas in simple terms so that even a fifth-grader would be able to somewhat understand what your project is about.
Explaining and speaking at the CYSF requires more than just condensing and abstraction; it also requires confidence and public speaking skills. If you don’t have any – good news! Now you have an opportunity to develop some. If you’re already confident, now you have another opportunity to practice. Either way, these interpersonal skills are crucial to any career and will make a huge difference in your career path.
4. Connecting with Like-Minded People
Even if you’re not interested in STEM, there’s going to be something at the science fair of interest to you. Project topics range from genetic engineering coral reefs to patterns of speech and language.
You’ll meet others just as interested in your project topic, your career field, and your interests. You’ll also meet judges who are professors, teachers, principals, and researchers. Not only is it wonderful to nerd out over your passions, but you might just meet someone who’ll be willing to dish out a future opportunity to do research in their lab. It’s a great way to network.
5. Learning About Innovation
The scientific community is ever-evolving, and so are its theories and ideas. You wouldn’t believe how outdated our textbooks are, even the ones that were only published a few years ago. It’s so difficult to print and teach at the pace of scientific innovation, so you’ll find that you’re actually several decades behind on research in some cases. It’s fascinating to learn more about the different ways that science has progressed to solve the worlds current events: climate change, global disease, mental health, aging, sociocultural globalization and trade, and robotics applications in almost everything.
TL;DR
If you take away anything from this article, it should be that the CYSF is an incredible place to learn about yourself, your potential future in science and research, as well as your surroundings and how they are evolving as we speak. Isn’t that so exciting?
The Power of Minimalism: How Decluttering Your Life Can Lead to Greater Happiness
In a world filled with excess, minimalism offers a refreshing way to find peace and happiness. It’s not just about owning fewer things—it’s about simplifying your life to focus on what truly matters.
Decluttering for Mental Clarity
Cluttered spaces often lead to cluttered minds. A clean, organized environment helps reduce stress and promotes mental clarity. Letting go of items that no longer serve you can create a sense of calm and allow space for more meaningful pursuits.
Embracing Digital Minimalism
In addition to physical clutter, digital overload can also impact our well-being. Digital minimalism encourages reducing screen time, organizing your devices, and prioritizing real-life connections. This can help decrease anxiety and free up time for the things that matter most.
Simplifying Time and Commitments
Minimalism also applies to how we spend our time. By evaluating your commitments and focusing only on what aligns with your values, you can reduce stress and create more time for meaningful activities. It also a
Letting Go of Perfectionism
Minimalism teaches us to embrace imperfection. Letting go of unrealistic expectations and appreciating what we already have leads to greater contentment and happiness.
Getting Started
You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Begin with small steps—declutter your home, reduce digital distractions, or evaluate your schedule. Over time, these simple changes will lead to a more peaceful and intentional life.
TL;DR: Less is More
Minimalism is about making space for the things that truly bring you joy and fulfillment. By focusing on what matters most, you can unlock greater happiness and live more intentionally.
Introducing the Mayor’s Youth Council Health and Well-Being Column! Each month, we’ll share fun, relevant, easy-to-follow mental health tips through the Youth Central newsletter, giving you the tools and support to prioritize your well-being with new topics and advice every month!
Every year, you may notice green posts begin to fill up your feed on April 22, the world turns green for just a single day. “save the planet” posts, companies promote themselves as a sustainable brand, and people suddenly remember that recycling exists. But for many young people, Earth Day isn’t just another post in their feeds, it’s their future. Climate change is more than real, and we’re in the middle of it. The planet is heating up, forests are disappearing, and natural disasters are getting worse. But what doesn’t get talked about enough is how all of this affects youth mental health. How does it feel to know that the world you’ll inherit is on fire, literally? This eco-anxiety is something more and more young people are dealing with.
Eco-Anxiety
When youth begin to understand the true detrimental harm of climate change it comes with a sense of dread and fear. It’s not like the stress about a test or anxiety, it’s a crisis youth must deal with. It’s scrolling through news about melting glaciers and realizing that this isn’t some distant problem, it’s happening now.
But here’s the thing: this anxiety doesn’t change the world, it helps us solve the problem, and is a crucial step but it isn’t the final step. Action does. And that’s why Earth Day matters, not just for the environment, but for our own mental well-being.
Why Earth Day Can Actually Make You Feel Better
Feeling alone in your worries makes them heavier and 10x worse. That’s why community is so important. Earth Day events bring people together, whether it’s a local cleanup, protests, or a sustainability fair, you’ll find others who care about the same things you do. There’s power in collective action, and there’s comfort in knowing someone else acknowledges the destruction in our world
Earth Day is a chance to shift the narrative, not just “the world is doomed,” but “we still have a chance.” It’s a day to learn, to take action, to find solutions. And when you start focusing on what can be done instead of just what’s going wrong, something shifts. That’s not just good for the planet, it’s good for your mental health too!
There’s a reason people say “touch grass.” Studies have proven that being in nature helps lower stress and improve mood. But in a world of endless screens and constant bad news, it’s sooo easy to forget that. Earth Day encourages people to step outside, not just to help the planet, but to reconnect with it. Whether it’s through a hike, a gardening project, or even just sitting under a tree for a while, each day we benefit from the vast earth around us.
What Happens After Earth Day?
Here’s the problem, April 22 ends, and the world moves on. The corporations stop pretending to care, and most people go back to their usual routines. But if you really care, if you want to make a lasting impact, both for the environment and for your own well-being, Earth Day has to be more than just a single day.
Instead you could join a local sustainability group like Green Calgary, or Earth Rangers to stay involved with people who are working on solutions year-round. Learn to advocate for change. Write to your city officials, push for policy changes, and hold fast fashion companies accountable for unethical practices. Make nature a part of your daily routine! Spend time outside, not just as an activist, but as someone who genuinely enjoys the world we’re fighting to protect.
Think about it, every civilization, every culture, every tradition started with the same land. The rivers dictated where cities were built. The soil decided what food we ate. The mountains, the plains, the oceans, shaped the way people lived, worked, and even thought.
The land still influences us. Some of our best memories are tied to nature, summer hikes, bonfires on the beach, playing in the snow, or just lying on the grass and staring at the sky. Most likely your favourite memory doesn’t even involve a screen or any technology. Even if we don’t realize it, the land teaches us patience, resilience, and connection.
Earth Day isn’t just about saving the environment, it’s about saving ourselves too. Because the truth is, we need the planet more than it needs us. The planet has been here before us and will be after us.
So this Earth Day :
We can reconnect. Go outside. Please, we need the land, it doesn’t need us, use it while we have it.
We can use it wisely. Instead of draining the land dry, we can give back. Grow something. Protect green spaces. Support sustainable practices.
We can learn from it. The land teaches patience, the way a tree grows slowly but surely. the way flowers bloom even in the harshest conditions. If we paid attention, we’d realize that the lessons we need most are in front of us
The Final Question: What Will We Leave Behind?
One day, we’ll be gone, but the land will remain, or at least, what’s left of it. What kind of Earth are we leaving behind? A thriving, beautiful world that future generations can walk through, explore, and love? Or a wasteland of what could have been?
Whether you’re a teenager, an adult, a student, or a parent, education apps will be your best friend when it comes to learning a new language! Many of us do not have the time, nor the available resources to learn a new language from a tutor or a teacher. This is where language apps come into play: they allow you to learn at your own pace, anywhere at any time. I personally useDuolingo to sharpen my French skills while I’m not at school. However, there are plenty of other language apps to help you get started. These include:
Memrise
Busuu
Babbel
HelloTalk
Pimsleur
FrenchPod101
Charlesdeluvio. (2018, November 22). black Kobo eBook reader turned-on. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/black-kobo-ebook-reader-turned-on-XeBljzhTcws
2. French Media
Living in a place where the main language isn’t French can be especially challenging if you’re trying to learn the language. One important thing that comes with language learning is surrounding yourself with speakers of the tongue. Lucky for you, the internet has numerous resources to help you progress your experience with French! Delving into French media will allow yourself to more easily learn the language, as they offer a more authentic exposure to the language–unlike any classroom, teacher, or learning app can. You will also receive the added skills of an enhanced listening and reading comprehension, a broader vocabulary, and more cultural understanding. You can easily find French podcasts, movies, TV shows, and books online. I prefer listening to podcasts, as I can easily listen to them on the go! My favourite podcast is LearningFrench on Spotify. It’s hosted by a French professor based in Poland, who designed it for beginner-intermediate learners of French.
3. Goals
The next stop on your French journey is goals! Without having a destination in sight, it can be hard to maintain momentum, and commit to learning a new language. It’s good to start small. You can aim to memorize 20 French words/phrases, master verb conjugations, or simply practice the unique sounds of French. As a French student, my goals are catered more towards my success in school. I strive to improve my listening and writing comprehension, but this is definitely a goal that any other French learner can commit to as well.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
Perry, K. (2023, May 12). a sign that says start somewhere next to a calculator. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/a-sign-that-says-start-somewhere-next-to-a-calculator-OTxJu2rxw
The key to success in French is, ultimately, practice! How can you expect to be good at anything without trying to get better? Focus on consistent and varied practice, so that you don’t get bored. Plus, you could even find yourself a language partner, and practice speaking French with them. Remember that regular practice is essential to making progress. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes–allow them and grow from them. Most importantly, have fun. Learning a new language should be enjoyable!
With these tips, soon you’ll be able to call yourself a French superstar!
Welcome to part 2 of our exploration into the Interconnection of Physics. Here, we will explore some fascinating connections across surprising Physics concepts. If you haven’t already, make sure to read part 1 of the exploration, especially because this part takes a leap over the introductory concepts and exposes some university content. Without further ado, let us explore three more awesome interconnections in Physics!
4. Linear and Rotational motion
As their names suggests, linear motion is translational, meaning that the object physically moves in a certain direction, and rotational motion is based on rotations, where the object itself is rotating about an axis. To create a visualization, imagine that you are driving a car. The car is translationally moving in whatever direction you wish, whereas the wheels are rotating about the axle (that rod that connects the center of the wheels in the back or in the front). Therefore, the car is physically undergoing linear motion and its wheels are experiencing rotational motion. Another example would be Earth, where we are orbiting the sun (though it is circular motion, we are still translationally moving), and rotating about our own axis (which is responsible for our day and night cycles).
Although these are two different kinds of motions, they are very closely related in terms of the Physics formulas. In fact, their formulas between many other concepts, like kinematics, forces, momentum, and energy, essentially have the same structure, just with different symbols (of course, to differentiate between linear and rotational calculations). Besides the actual content, the difference between the linear and rotational motions is that rotational motions concerns the radius of the object. Because rotational motion is university content and can be confusing, the important thing is that the similarity between the formulas reveals that these everyday motions still fall under the universal laws of Physics, especially Newton’s laws.
Image by Ahmed Alkhalidi from Pixabay (Car moves forward)Image by Hanne Hasu from Pixabay (Car tire rotates)
5. Waves and Springs
Diving deeper into the more theoretical parts of Physics, waves are recognized as a disturbance in a medium that carries energy without moving particles and springs are a medium that can push or pull an object. The connection between these two would be the concept of oscillations, which are referred to repetitive movements (without an external assistance).
Generally speaking, waves have an amplitude (power) and a wavelength (distance between two successive waves). A couple examples of waves are sound waves and electromagnetic waves (includes infrared, visible light, and x-rays). Oscillations occur in waves because these amplitudes and wavelengths are constantly repeating one another. This explains why we usually experience a constant amount of light from the sun; the waves do not change in power or frequency.
When it comes to springs, there are compressed springs and expanded springs. Compressed springs result from objects compressing springs beyond their equilibrium point, and expanded springs have objects pulling springs from that point. For springs, when the spring is allowed to expand or compress back to their equilibrium point, their energy and momentum make it so that they pass that point, compress or expand again, pass the point again, resulting in a repetitive, oscillating motion.
This unexpected connection into oscillation infers that the energy and momentum between waves and springs are the same, allowing them to follow their own repetitive pattern. Along with that, the applications of oscillations include musical instruments (strings can act as waves), alternating current, and understanding the beating of the heart (just imagine that a point in the spring example creates a heartbeat).
Stars, those large, bright celestial bodies that shine high in the sky, and time, a measurement between two events. It takes time for its emitted light to travel around. Did you know that the stars that we see in the night sky had been dead for such a long time? Yet we believe it is still there because the light is just reaching us now. This not only justifies that stars are astronomically far away, but also that the speed of light is constant.
Because speed depends on distance and time (from the formula, v = d/t). If the speed is constant, then the only variables that could change would be distance and time (ex: 4m/s can be calculated with either 4m ÷ 1s or 12m ÷ 3s). We had just seen the star’s effect on time, but this formula reveals that they affect distance.
Imagine a star releases a certain wavelength. A Physics concept, known as the Doppler Effect, suggegs that if the star is in relative motion compared to Earth, we measured that wavelength differently. Referring back to that v = d/t formula, we had just seen that time changed; the distance, which is the wavelength, must also change. If you recall hearing the terms, red-shift and blue-shift, then this is where it came from. Red-shifts are evidence that the star is moving away from us, whereas blue shifts are for stars moving closer to us.
Of course, Einstein’s theory of special relativity is directly connected between stars and time, especially because stars can move close to the speed of light. Though his theory itself is fascinating, the application of it is confusing. Therefore, it is at your discretion to find this connection yourself.
Congratulations on making it to the end of this series! Of course, these six connections are amongst an astonishing amount of connections and applications. We have explored through quick glimpses of the high school Physics content with sprinkles of some university content. Remember, each connection progressively became harder to understand and more reliable on imagination and application. However, what makes this amazing Physics journey possible is that almost every time, everything is held under universal laws. The consistency and interconnection of Physics makes the world make more sense.
Home of the beaver, maple syrup, and excessively apologizing. These are all staples of the Canadian brand that may come to mind when you think of the Great North; however, if you’re like me, then you may have also thought of the amazing music scene Canada has to offer. With the 2025 Juno Awards fast approaching (March 30, 6:00 p.m. MDT), I wanted to provide a list of some of my favourite Canadian bands. From punk music you can thrash to, to laid-back indie rock, here are 10 of some of the best Canada has to offer.
Alexisonfire
This hard-core rock band formed in 2001 in St. Catherines, ONT. Though they broke up in 2012 after performing their Farewell Tour, in 2022, the band reunited and released their album Otherness, a more refined version of the music they made when they were younger, which the band claims to be the best music they’ve ever released. Alexisonfire is known for their explosive and aggressive yet still melodious music. If you want to dip your toes into the ocean that is Alexisonfire, I would suggest starting with their song Boiled Frogs from their 2006 album, Crisis.
2. Metric
Even if you didn’t realize, you’ve probably heard one of Metric’s songs before, specifically Black Sheep from the film, Scott Pilgrim vs the World, 2010. In the movie, the song is sung by the talented Brie Larson. The band wrote the song specifically for the soundtrack, which consists mostly of extraordinary Canadian music artists. Metric has a unique sound that exists at the intersection of electronic music and rock, but my favourite component of their music is the lyricism. Additionally, I had the amazing opportunity to watch them perform at the 2024 Stampede, and lead singer, Emily Haines has an unapologetic stage presence that provides even more eccentricity to their music. Some of my favourite songs of theirs include: Gimme Sympathy, Wet Blanket and Stadium Love.
Metric headlining the Coca-Cola Stage at the 2024 Calgary Stampede
3. Arkells
Hailing from Hamilton, Ontario, the Arkells are Canada’s Rock band sweetheart. Formed in 2006, the band is still going strong nearly 2 decades later, with 9 JUNO awards under their belt and holding the record for most wins in the best group/duo category with six wins. Arkells’s sound combines alternative rock with some soul/Motown influences. Less than a week ago, tickets to their hometown concert, The Rally, went on sale. Along with other musicians, the Arkells will be putting on a highly anticipated show dedicated to the city where it all started, Hamilton. If you’re interested in this band, listen to songs like Oh, The Boss is Coming! and 11:11.
Arkells Concert
4. The Beaches
My personal favourite on this list. I have seen them in concert twice, and they have been my number one artist since 2020; I can proudly say I am a certified Beaches expert. Contrary to popular belief, the band’s name is not a play on words, but rather originates from the Toronto neighbourhood where 3/4 of the members grew up. The band is known for their indie-pop rock music, with relatable lyrics revolving around love (and heartache) as well as other universal experiences of girlhood. Their song Gold is great for when you need to amp yourself up, whereas If a Tree Falls is an emotional ballad that never fails to make me ponder the meaning of life. But, without a doubt, my favourite song of theirs is Edge of the Earth, a perfect mix of lyrical genius and a beautiful melody that will get stuck in your head.
Leader singer of the Beaches, Jordan MillerKylie Miller, The Beaches Guitarist
5. Peach Pit
Peachpit is a cultural phenomenon that has amassed 2.3 million monthly listeners from Vancouver. Peach Pit is known for their ethereal, dreamy guitar accompaniments to heartfelt lyrics. Peach Pit has a distinctive sound that brings a fresh new look to the indie-rock genre. By far, my favourite part of the Peach Pit discography is the guitar tracks, which often play a prominent role in their songs. Personal standouts from this band are Drop the Guillotine and Shampoo Bottles.
Peach Pit performing at the Calgary Stampede 2024
6. Tokyo Police Club
In March of 2024, Tokyo Police Club released their last and final single, Just A Scratch/ Catch Me If You Can, as they announced their disbandment in January earlier that year, but nonetheless, the band had still solidified their place in the Canadian Indie-rock hall of fame of the 2000s. Tokyo Police Club is known for their catchy melodies, instrumentals reminiscent of the post-punk genre and overall fast-paced, energetic vibe. If this band from New Market, ONT interests you, I would suggest listening to Nature of The Experiment and Your English is Good.
7. Mother Mother
If you had an alt phase in 2020, you’re definitely familiar with this band from the small city of Quadra Island in British Columbia. Mother Mother was formed in 2005 and has released nine studio albums since. While they were very popular in the 2000s, their prominence skyrocketed in 2020 thanks to TikTok and their viral songs like Verbatim, Hayloft and Burning Pile. In February of this year, the band embarked on their Canadian tour with openers Cavetown and Winnetka Bowling League, making stops in cities across Canada. This summer, Mother Mother is heading out on their EU/UK tour, as well as performing at Lollapalooza. If you somehow missed the craze that was Mother Mother five years ago, you should definitely check out their album O My Heart.
Mother Mother concert at Scotiabank Saddledome 2025
8. PUP
PUP, AKA Pathetic Use of Potential, is a punk rock band from Toronto, trademarked by their dysfunctional and chaotic music. Initially, I was introduced to this band by their music video for their song, SLEEP IN THE HEAT, featuring a young Finn Wolfhard (fellow Canadian) and was immediately hooked. Even now, I still hold a soft spot for that song, especially knowing it was written about the untimely passing of lead singer Stefan Babcock’s pet chameleon, and I definitely encourage you to either watch the video or listen to the song.
9. Tegan and Sara
This twin-sister duo from Calgary, Alberta, are known for their synth-pop sound, but most importantly for their contribution to the 2014 film, The Lego Movie. That’s right; you’ve probably danced to this band when you were 5 years old listening to Everything is Awesome. Tegan and Sara hold a special place in my heart because so many of their songs were frequently played on Canadian radio in the 2010s during my childhood. From songs like Closer to Where Does the Good Go. However, despite their prevalence in my childhood, I did not realize they were Canadian or from the same town as me until I watched their TV show, High School, based on their lives growing up in Calgary. Highschool tells the story of how Tegan and Sara came to be, and their journey navigating the qualms of high school and their growing passion for music.
10. Fade Awaays
Last but certainly not least is the band, Fade Awaays. In all earnestness, I only found out about this band while researching for this blog post, but while I only just discovered them, they have already found their way into my daily playlist. Unfortunately, this discovery also led to the realization that the band released their last EP, Material Things, as an homage to the passing of their late founding member Reid Macmaster, who suddenly passed away in 2022 while the band was working on the song. In 2023, the band released a statement saying they would continue their journey as a band with Reid in their hearts. However, they have not posted since 2023 on their Instagram. Still, I am excited to see what lies in the future for this band.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You made it to the end of my long list of bands, and hopefully, you’ve found some new music that resonates with you. If you have some time during your day, give some of these bands a listen and channel your inner Canadian patriotism. And, if you want to discover more Canadian artists, tune in on March 30th for the JUNO awards, the biggest night for Canadian Music. (Some of these bands are nominated/ performing!)
All of the photos in this blog (minus the featured image) are from me and my amazing friends attending concerts. Remember to support local artists if you can, big and small!
Welcome to the sixth and final episode of Beyond the Fast for 2025, a series that takes Ramadan beyond the stereotypes, beyond the surface-level understanding, and into what it truly means for the people who experience it.
And today, we’re talking about Eid ul-Fitr (first Eid of two), which this year lands on Sunday, March 30 or Monday, March 31st, depending on the sighting of the moon (reference to the lunar calendar, if you want to learn more about this calendar, check out Ep 1!)
The day that marks the end of an entire month of fasting, reflection, and growth. It’s the moment everything builds up to, the sort of grand finale after a month’s journey.
For Muslims, Eid is huge! It’s anticipated weeks before Ramadan even begins, and when it finally arrives, it’s the best day of the year for a reason. There’s a collective joy in our homes, in the way people greet one another, Eid Mubarak! (means blessed festival) Hugs. Laughter. The smell of something sweet coming from the kitchen. The excitement of wearing new clothes, of seeing family and friends, of eating, celebrating not just the end of fasting, but the personal growth that came with it.
But before we get to any of that, there’s one last act of giving: Zakat al-Fitr. Every Muslim who can afford it is required to donate to those in need, ensuring that no one is left out of the celebrations.
Because joy is meant to be shared. Faith isn’t just about what you do for yourself, it’s about what you do for others. And that’s the whole point of Eid. Of Ramadan. Of it all!
The Weight of the Moment
The morning of Eid starts early, dressed in our best, we gather for the Eid prayer. Dozens, sometimes hundreds, of people standing together in prayer. And when it ends, when people turn to each other with smiles and finally..Eid Mubarak!
Then, the celebrations begin. The actual celebrations. And across cultures, they look different, some families start the day with sheer khurma, a warm, sweet dessert made with milk and vermicelli; others bake ma’amoul, date-filled cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
In some parts of the world, the streets come alive with parades and public gatherings. In others, it’s a quieter day, spent in the comfort of home with loved ones. But no matter where you are, one thing is always the same: Eid is about togetherness, about gratitude. About recognizing the strength it took to get through Ramadan and carrying those lessons forward.
Because that’s the thing, Ramadan isn’t just a month that comes and goes. It’s meant to stay with you. The patience you built, the discipline you practiced, the way you turned inward and really reflected on yourself, none of that disappears just because the fasting is over. Eid is a celebration, yes, but it’s also a reminder: Now what? How do you take what you’ve learned and use it to be a better person?
The End Of ‘Beyond The Fast’ 2025!:
I hope this series has given you something to think about. I hope it’s helped you see Ramadan for what it really is, beyond just “not eating from sunrise to sunset.” I hope it’s made you curious, not just about Ramadan, but about the people around you. Because that’s what learning about different cultures does. It makes us ask more questions and makes us pay attention. It makes the world feel a little less divided and a lot more like a place we all belong to.
So if you’ve made it to the end of Beyond the Fast, thank you. Thank you for reading and listening to what I have to say, for taking the time to understand something that maybe didn’t directly affect you. That kind of effort and openness? It matters. More than ever, especially right now.
And wherever you are, whatever you celebrate, I hope you find moments of joy and connection everyday!
If you’re a youth who has ever felt the need to alter your resume but didn’t know where to start, you are at the right spot. This article is for anyone willing to create or improve their resume to make a better impression on hiring managers. This list goes through some essentials and tips on how to craft a great resume.
Because this is for youth and we don’t have that much experience, it’s important to we have to stay focused on what we have rather than what we have missed out on or have yet to achieve.
Conciseness and Clarity:
The one piece of advice that you may have heard several times is to keep your resume concise. This is a common yet extremely impactful method in catching one’s attention. With the rise of social media and a world full of distractions, humans tend to have a short attention span. Concisely conveying your message will highlight your qualities in your resume. Focus only on the major experiences first and leave some of your less frequent extracurriculars off the page.
Personalize It!
Often times individuals will use the same resume for several job applications; however, they forget that each job has a different vision and mission. Having resumes that are catered to the job will increase your chances of getting hired! The company needs to see your skills that are relevant to the workplace expectations therefore, so try to put experiences that would be helpful to the job description.
Impact Over Quantity
A great technique in making your resume effective is describing the impact of your activities rather than the number of activities you have done. For example, if you are applying for retail jobs you should expand on your experience in working with people by volunteering, rather than telling them that you are excellent at table tennis.
Essentially, you want to discuss your impact on others’ lives and your skillset to present yourself competently.
Unsplash. October 23, 2023. Resume Genius
Actionable Words
Having the correct word choice on your resume can make or break it. Furthermore, each resume will have a different tone depending on your choice of vocabulary and detail. Actionable words are the perfect way to enhance your resume by making it sound more professional and organized.
The following are some great actionable words suggested by the University of Colorado Boulder:
Accomplished
Administered
Advanced
Analyzed
Appointed
Approved
Assigned
Attained
Authorized
Chaired
Considered
Consolidated
Contracted
Controlled
Converted
Coordinated
Decided
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Eliminated
Emphasized
Enforced
Enhanced
Established
Executed
Generated
Handled
Headed
Hired
Hosted
Improved
Incorporated
Increased
Initiated
Inspected
Instituted
Led
Managed
Merged
Motivated
Navigated
Organized
Originated
Overhauled
Oversaw
Planned
Presided
Prioritized
Produced
Recommended
Reorganized
Replaced
Restored
Reviewed
Scheduled
Secured
Selected
Streamlined
Strengthened
Supervised
Terminated
Formatting & Proofreading
In my opinion, formatting and proofreading are the most underrated yet essential advice one can give to an individual who is writing their resume. While there are AI tools which can help you improve your grammar, it does not hurt to read through your resume twice before handing it out. By proofreading you can improve the tone and set yourself up for a perfect first impression. During the proofreading phase you may want to change up the experience description or reword it to make it more concise. Whatever the issue may be, critiquing your writing will be far more impactful than any AI tool. Lastly, formatting the resume to a subtle and professional look can reflect your organizational skills. For instance, make sure the headings are concise and the font is consistent.
TL;DR
Unsplash. January 7, 2018. Christin Hume
No matter what age you are, editing your resume and striving to make it perfect can assist you in the pursuit of an exciting career! While these are only a few tips for making a perfect resume, they are all you need to impress hiring managers. If you go through each piece of advice thoroughly, you will master the art of resumes in no time!
Conciseness and Clarity
Personalize It!
Impact Over Quantity
Actionable Words
Formatting & Proofreading
If building the perfect resume has interested you, here is another website which can help you in making the best resume possible.
Susanna M. Salter, born March 2, 1860, was the first ever woman to be a mayor — and perhaps one of the only people to have accidentally become a mayor! Born in Lamira, Ohio, USA, she moved to Kansas at the age of twelve. There, she attended university and met her husband, Lewis Allison Salter. They later moved to Argonia, Kansas, where she would eventually end up serving as mayor.
In her twenties, Salter was an active advocate of women’s suffrage, and was a member of the WCTU — or Women’s Christian Temperance Union, which was a nonprofit organization aimed at women’s suffrage and social reform. At the time of her election, women had gained the right to vote in Kansas municipal elections only months prior, and women’s suffrage on a federal level was still at least thirty years away.
Though she was an active advocate, Salter had no intentions of running for office. However, a group of men, who were opposed to women’s involvement in politics, put her name on the ballots. It was intended as a prank — a way to humiliate Salter and demonstrate that women had no place in government. They certainly never intended for it to work out the way it did.
At the time, names on ballots did not have to be revealed until election day. When election day rolled around and people discovered her name on the ballots, shock and even outrage rippled through the small community. However, the men had underestimated the women of Argonia and the sense of community surrounding Salter. To their shock and horror, the community banded together and elected Salter by a huge landslide — 60%!
Despite never having wanted nor asked for it, Salter took this in stride and accepted the role as mayor. Though her time in office was only a year long, she made history and national headlines with her unexpected position as the world’s first woman to be mayor. Reportedly, she was a strict and efficient leader who got things done quickly and satisfactorily. She refused to run for reelection after her one–year tenure as mayor.
To think that the first woman to be mayor got there because the ministrations of a group of petty men backfired on them is both amusing and irritating. Their own misogyny working against them and the community of Argonia rallying behind Salter is a testament to the women’s suffrage movement and the resilience of the people—the women—involved. However, it also speaks to the ridiculous lengths that people have gone to hinder people fighting for equal rights. Now, more than ever, it is essential to remember these stories of success, the unfortunate truth that progress isn’t linear, and the fact that the people who opposed these movements ultimately went down in history as the laughingstocks at best, and the villains at worst.
Possessing a good vision: an indispensable part of health
In our modern age, nearsightedness, or myopia, is rapidly rising in rate, particularly for kids and teenagers. In fact, it is estimated that about 30% of Canadians have myopia with this percentage expected to only grow higher in the years ahead. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “one in four parents has a child with some degree of nearsightedness”.
The truth is, we use our vision every day in our lives. A good vision is an indispensable aspect of health for all of us, kids and adults alike. Myopia can make life much more challenging, as individuals require glasses, contacts, or other methods, like LASIK surgery to correct for their nearsightedness, all of which impedes their ability to rely on their natural eyesight to take on their day-to-day tasks and activities.
How to protect your vision
According to this healthline article, there are numerous ways in which we can protect our vision, and to prevent it from worsening. One of the most fundamental ways of protecting not just vision, but also eye health in general, is to receive regular eye checks with their optometrist. By checking up with a professional, individuals could not only get their vision measured, but also be notified if they have an eye disease that requires additional treatment.
Getting the right nutrients in the diet is also incredibly important; specifically, “Vitamins A, C, and E, as well as the mineral zinc, contain antioxidants”, which enables them to help prevent diseases, such as macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is a condition which involves the deterioration of important parts of the eye responsible for vision. Now, to gain these nutrients, be sure to frequently have vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, strawberries, citrus, and carrots. A great diet, combined with regular exercising in the day-to-day life, can greatly reduce the risk of many different types of eye diseases.
Make sure to wear protective eyewear, especially when playing certain sports, working on projects in a workshop, or even doing science experiments at school or elsewhere! Protecting the eyes from dust particles in the air, certain chemical materials, and fast-moving objects in sports is surely important.
For protection against the UV radiation in sunlight, it is also essential to wear sunglasses, particularly ones “that block out 99% or 100% of UVA and UVB radiation from sunlight.” Doing so can greatly improve one’s eyesight.
The 20-20-20 rule
In our modern digital age, kids and adults extensively use technology to do work, studying, or for fun. However, by partaking in activities requiring the eye to focus on a close-up screen or object, you are also straining your eyes. Long-term eye strains, particularly without taking breaks from doing tasks like playing video games or reading, can very possibly lead to myopia in the long run. The 20-20-20 rule is a great technique to use: it means, for every 20 minutes of staring at the computer, look at something 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. 20 seconds isn’t too long, but taking on and maintaining this habit to protect vision will be greatly rewarding on the long run!
Conclusion
From following the 20-20-20 rule; ensuring a good diet with the appropriate nutrition; to checking up regularly with an optometrist, there are many ways to protect eye health and the vision. In general, an individual’s vision accompanies them for their entire life. Eye health, and a good vision, are therefore absolutely essential in ensuring a high quality of life, where one can see their world clearly with comfort. Thus, let’s all take the initiative in protecting our eyes!
