Rising Stars
It is Sunday and I would love to end the weekend on a ‘list of three’ guaranteed to gear you up for the week ahead. Knowing that there are so many young people who are ready (and able) to lead the next generation is incredibly galvanising. So, today I bring you ‘Three young People Everyone Should Google’:
1. Kenny Imafidon
I believe Kenny Imafidon to be one of the brightest ‘rising stars’ of modern Britain. Certainly the most exciting political name to have emerged in recent years, a teenage Kenny was already making significant strides in the political sphere before life took a devastating turn. May 2011, just weeks after his 18th birthday, Kenny was wrongfully remanded in custody for a total of seven serious charges (including murder) with four of his closest friends. Facing 30-years in prison for a crime he had not committed, he knuckled down and became the only person to have ever achieved his A’levels in Feltham prison. When he was released, he made a remarkable comeback. He had soon turned his experience into a positive by penning the award-winning ‘The Kenny Reports’. He is now considered a leading-edge, political commentator, social entrepreneur and campaigner on socio-economic issues affecting young people in the UK.
2. Cecile Emeke
Her name may not be a household name yet but it soon will be. Cecile Emeke is a director, writer and artist best known for her global online documentary series ‘Strolling’ and the short film/web series ‘Ackee & Saltfish’. Cecile’s work has been featured everywhere from the New York times, Washington post, ebony magazine to the Tribeca film festival, and the BFI london film festival. This young Londoners’ dynamic, authentic and has an activist approach to her work that is destined to take her far.
3. Marceline Kingolo-BiceThis is a young woman who is making some serious strides. Marceline Kongolo-Bice grew up surrounded by war in the Congo’s Maniema province. At just 13, her refusal to marry a local man landed her family in jail. After fleeing, they embarked on a long journey to safety during which Marceline witnessed the rape and murder of women.In 2003, Marceline founded SOS Femmes en Dangers, a grassroots organisation that helps rape victims. She is now working tirelessly to change the lives of women on a global scale, a true example of the incredible impact our young are making.
Faces to Watch, At A Glance:1. Karen ByrdThis young mother grew tired of seeing her daughters play with dolls that did not resemble them and set about establishing Natural Girls United; customising barbie dolls so that they are a real representation of black women. http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/40653982. Kid presidentRobby Novac’s online pep-talks are a must-watch for people young or old. President Barack Obama is already a huge fan. Aged just 10-years old and having suffered with ‘Brittle bones’ disease all his life, Robby is determined to inspire others. http://youtu.be/l-gQLqv9f4o3. Temi MwaleThis young Peacemaker of the Year (2014) and winner of Ultimate Women Awards 2014 for Cosmopolitan Magazine is making a difference. A North West Londoner, founded Get Outta The Gang in 2012; a grass-roots campaign targeting gang culture, youth violence and surrounding issues, using innovative and creative, youth-led methods. At just 19, Temi has already made significant headway in addressing London’s gang issues.With news headlines as they are, it’s all to easy to despair. We must remember that the media is not a fair representation of our youth. It’s Black History Month! Let’s acknowledge the many great young minds we have in our midst. Let’s celebrate their achievements and support their efforts. These names are the tip of the iceberg and a great place to start.
Join me tomorrow for Day 12 of Diahanne’s Daily Tributes: Black History Month
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