We have just finished up a new Create Not Hate project: helping get Endz2Endz off the ground.
Endz2Endz is an urban online magazine, set up by young people, for young people, enabling teenagers from different neighbourhoods to reconnect through the power of the internet and their passion for creativity.
All the young people who set up the magazine have come from inner city backgrounds, and have gelled despite coming from areas traditionally hostile to each other. Some have previously been involved in gangs and have seen many of their friends succumb to drugs or prison sentences. Their intention is not to fight crime, but to inspire. In their own words they have created a space where they can “channel the negative energy into something fun, entertaining and positive, by inspiring other youths”.
The magazine’s first issue contains a mix of raw personal experiences, inspiring stories from young people from tough backgrounds who’ve made good, as well as a splash of glitz from breaking talents such as Afrikan Boy and Shea Soul. UK Hip-Hop legend Rodney P lends his support and in a frank interview shares his views on stereotypes. The magazine tells stories that don’t often get heard from an age group and community that’s more often demonised than understood. Above all, the aim is to showcase a mix of Britain’s young inner city talent, and to open doors for those youngsters who want to pursue careers in creative industries.
With a motive that echoes Barack Obama recent address to the USA’s NAACP about raising expectations in the black community, it’s also topical given recent debate on how certain professions have become exclusive to privileged middle class kids.
Dennis, one of the four editors said: “Endz 2 Endz Magazine will be a pathway for inspiring the young talented people of today in our communities in the form of an e-magazine. This type of business also creates a foundation for which multiple enterprises can be built upon as it is online and gives us the opportunity to find more ways of keeping youngsters interested.”
Also involved in the Endz2Endz set up were mentors from The BBC, The Guardian and online designers Zerofee.
