Editor of the Rosebank Killarney Gazette talks about young opinions
The opinions of our youth should be valued, above all else, they should value themselves.
Ashtyn Mackenzie, editor of the Rosebank Killarney Gazette writes:
I am excited to showcase our newly re-designed Rosebank Killarney Gazette to you. It has taken months of blood, sweat and tears to produce a #NewLook newspaper. Think clean, fresh and vibrant!
While the changes may seem minor, the aim is to bring you a product that reflects you. The last time the Gazette had a makeover was in 2016 under then-editor, Megan Tyack.
Although we have had a page dedicated to the youth for some time, we have introduced new features like #TruthFromYouth. This is where young voices are highlighted in a cool and funky way. I believe it’s imperative to put the spotlight on our young minds, as they will shape our future.
I am a young editor (well, I like to think so), 31 years old and going strong. A position like this has come with trials and trepidation but nothing compares to the sheer joy I feel when we share the stories of those in the community.
After graduating with my honour’s degree in media studies in 2014, I quickly moved into my dream job as a journalist at Caxton Local Media. In 2018 I was promoted to editor of the Sandton Chronicle and its sister publication, Rosebank Killarney Gazette. Was this a big move? You bet ya! I only survived by believing in myself, my voice, my gut and my heart.
Often the opinion of the youth can seem like folly or seemingly naive: I believe that every opinion has some validity. We need to promote individuality and constructive dialogue. The voices of young people can easily be overlooked because they are clouded by a barrage of hashtags and filters. Instead, why not use social media to build on conversations that will better our community?
So, I encourage the youth of Rosebank and Killarney to recognise your true capacity and right to exercise agency. Value your opinion, cherish your instinct and most of all keep those running shoes on because life is nothing without change.
You can submit your story ideas to me at ashtynm@caxton.co.za
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