culture

November 15, 2024

Social media’s redefinition of ‘girlhood’ is Gen Z’s way of perpetuating the patriarchy

While feminism asserts that all genders have equal intellectual capacity, the ‘girlhood’ trend that has been proliferating on social media since 2023, especially TikTok, advocates that women are incompetent in all facets of life, from financial decisions to nutrition, and endorses detrimental habits

16 year-old Noa Gomberg explores the negative effects of the ‘girlhood’ trend on TikTok

November 14, 2024

‘Dream big, never give up’: What famous Nepali climber Purnima Shrestha told us

We met a famous Nepali female mountaineer this summer, when she came to our classroom and shared her experiences. Her name is Purnima Shrestha. This year, aged 33, she created a new world record by climbing Everest three times in thirteen days. She is the first female climber to set such a record

Students from Harbingers' Nepali Newsroom interview renowned woman climber about Mount Everest

November 14, 2024

Teaching English to fellow Tanzanians has given me fulfilment

It was not until I started English classes in 2021 that I began to develop in confidence and speak more fluently

15 year-old Lidya Gasper shares her experience teaching and the importance of passing on knowledge

November 14, 2024

Online vs reality: Bali without the lens of social media

Bali, “The Island of The Gods,” as it is often referred to, is a place many call a paradise, as we can see all over social media. But how much of it is really true and how much is a shiny facade drawing vacationers in or a dark cloud pushing them away?

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist’s take on social media’s rose-colored glasses on Bali

November 07, 2024

The return of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show: rebrand or ruse?

The aesthetic of the lingerie brand – deemed sexy and appealing, but also toxic and narrow-minded by some – was meant to be transformed into a supposedly body-positive and more inclusive version

15 year-old Sofia Vorobei argues that the lingerie company rebrand is another marketing opportunity

October 31, 2024

What I found retracing Steinbeck’s steps in The Grapes of Wrath

Back in June, fascinated by the sensory richness and moving power of Steinbeck’s writing, and finding parallels between the socioeconomic and climate-related conditions of immigrants today and the migrants of the 1930s, I embarked on my own quest across the “Mother Road” of Route 66

17 year-old Justin Sau finds links between the migrant workers of the 1930s and today

October 24, 2024

Why is the month of Shrawan so important for Nepalis?

Shrawan is the fourth month in the Nepali calendar, and one of the most holy months for Hindus because it is dedicated to one of their most important gods, Lord Shiva.

Students from Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom explain the significance of the month of Shrawan

October 17, 2024

Does Harry Potter have a passport?

Boycotting might seem like a good answer to the current Russian regime, but it doesn’t really prove a point and it also helps brainwash kids, giving an unlimited power to propaganda. If the goal is to lead Russia’s population towards democracy, then cutting ties to international culture is not what should be done

17 year-old Ashley Solace is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024 (Culture)

October 17, 2024

What is the debate surrounding marijuana use?

Legislation around marijuana differs from country to country. Some allow its use for recreational and medical purposes, while many still ban it as an illegal drug. With its increasing medical uses, its overall impact and risk are becoming more overlooked

18 year-old Emilia Wilkin discusses marijuana use around the world

October 03, 2024

Our nation’s backbone is caught in the crossfire of racism

Not going to lie, getting subjected to crossfire racism sucks. Not only do you realize that “this person is racist”, but being a victim of crossfire racism can make a person feel like their only identity is their presumed race, which has severe implications on both the mind and the body

16 year-old Reva Sobti is the winner of the Harbinger Prize 2024

September 26, 2024

How media stereotypes of the medical profession damage perceptions and patient care

Whether through TV, film or literature, the motives of creatives are not to portray our healthcare professionals positively or even accurately, but rather to entertain

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna explores stereotypes of surgeons as arrogant, aggressive and uncaring

September 05, 2024

These Kamala Harris memes are so confusing, girl

By now, there are two types of people in the world: those who embrace the rise of Kamala Harris memes, and those who struggle to understand the online flurry of coconut tree emojis and pop remixes using clips of Harris’s philosophical thoughts on life. This article is for people in either group

14 year-old Helena Bruździak explains the Gen Z memes about US presidential candidate Kamala Harris

August 28, 2024

From jail to fame: Who is the ‘infamous’ Gypsy Rose Blanchard?

Gypsy Rose Blanchard is known for the killing of her mother Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard due to alleged abuse over 19 years. Now after serving eight and a half years in prison, she has become ‘infamous’ during her time behind bars following high public interest in her story

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska reports on the life of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who has gained an internet following after being released from prison

August 22, 2024

A must-read: White Torture shares the agony of women prisoners in Iran

I urge you to pick up this book, to stand with Narges Mohammadi, who has risked so much to publish these testimonies, and the courageous women who have shared memories of their darkest days

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reviews Narges Mohammadi’s book on women prisoners in Iran

August 15, 2024

Traditional Kyrgyz weddings are unnecessary and expensive

Weddings are a huge deal in Kyrgyzstan – a celebration of rich cultural traditions and rituals. And while it is an event that is worthy of being proclaimed, the costs of holding one are unjustifiable

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova shares how people can still honour traditions without the high price tag

August 15, 2024

Chili, half-smokes, and history: Interviews in DC’s greatest landmark

Before even stepping into Ben’s Chili Bowl, there is the sense of walking into history. More than just a culinary landmark, though, Ben’s is a testament to the perseverance and community of the District of Columbia

17 year-old Justin Sau visits Ben’s Chili Bowl, a cultural staple in US civil rights history

August 15, 2024

Armenia’s annual wine festival features producers from Artsakh

The festival acts as an important space to represent Artsakhian culture and significance. Among the wine-making producers were companies originating from the disputed region of Artsakh

17 year-old Laura Danielyan reports on Yerevan’s annual Wine Days festival

August 02, 2024

Microtrends are the death of individuality – we should be wary of overconsumption

Microtrends are not subcultures. Rather than building a timeless closet, consisting of a foundation customisable to fit your style, people often opt for trending items. While this is great for businesses, microtrend consumerism is having a profound impact on our environment and individuality

17 year-old Maria Mitko hits out at the overconsumption of microtrends that ‘kills individuality’ across the world

August 01, 2024

Revisiting Amy Winehouse: Unpacking the biopic Back to Black

Back to Black’s vivid portrayal of Amy Winehouse has reignited the debate over the ethics of biographical filmmaking, while challenging audiences to confront the complexities of fame, addiction, and artistic brilliance. In death as in life, Amy defies easy categorization, leaving an untouchable mark on music and memory alike

15 year-old Sofia Vorobei asks if the recent movie does justice to the iconic singer Amy Winehouse

August 01, 2024

An interview with Kevin Tien: How a chef is countering hate with food-focused love

From his humble beginnings of cooking and experimenting with grilled cheese sandwiches and cooking out of necessity for his siblings, Tien has now inspired others to cook for a greater purpose and to support an important cause

17 year-old Christian Yeung in conversation with renowned chef Kevin Tien

July 16, 2024

Reasons to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Nepal

Narayanhiti Palace was turned into a museum after the monarchy was overthrown in Nepal and the country was declared a federal democratic republic. It was designed for kings, but now it is open to everyone. We found six interesting things about the palace that everyone must know

Students aged 11–18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project share their experiences after a recent visit to this royal museum

July 11, 2024

A Japanese volleyball film that’s too fast for its own good

Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle is an exhilarating romp for well-versed fans, but for those who are going in blind, or have forgotten much of the anime, it can be confusing. With a limited runtime, the audience is left to fill in the gaps of many individual rivalries and character relationships

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the animated volleyball movie Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

July 11, 2024

The Labour Vs Conservative TikTok battle felt like an uncle trying new slang

The parties took to TikTok and other apps soon after the election announcement, a move to be expected in order to appeal to younger voters. It is understandable that the parties are appealing to the youth vote, but you have to wonder why both sides decided to adopt the mentality of children in the process

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz gives her take on the Labour Vs Conservative social media battle following the UK general election

July 04, 2024

Seeking closure: why open-ended movies are frustrating

Unlike traditional movies, which typically tie up loose ends, these films often leave many questions unanswered. While some argue that this ambiguity allows characters to leap off the screen and into our imaginations, I find it puzzling rather than enlightening

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza expresses her dissatisfaction with open-ended films

July 04, 2024

My experiences – good and bad – as a third culture kid

In today’s increasingly globalised world, more children are growing up with influences from multiple ethnic backgrounds and cultures. These children, often referred to as ‘third culture kids’ navigate the complexities of two, three or sometimes even four different cultures in their everyday life

16 year-old Camille Hasbani on the experience of being French-Syrian and living in Denmark

July 04, 2024

Can traditional Chinese opera survive in pragmatic Singapore?

Characterised by its lyricism and elegant gestures, Chinese opera is a dying art form in Singapore. The number of Chinese street opera troupes has dwindled drastically from hundreds to about ten

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang considers the future of this historical but neglected art form

July 04, 2024

How gaming helped me to cope with anxiety and homesickness

Many people consider gaming a waste of time or a bad addiction. However, video games have been my sanctuary, a place to let off steam and find a moment of calm amid life’s storms

16 year-old Sofiia Didenko talks about the positive impact of video games

June 27, 2024

The creation and evolution of Superman

‘It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… Superman!’ Perhaps the most iconic superhero ever created, spawning millions of comic books, films, television shows and merchandise, the Last Son of Krypton has captured hearts and imaginations all over the world for decades

17 year-old Justin Sau explains how the ‘Man of Steel’ created the superhero genre, 90 years ago

June 27, 2024

How Gen Z adopted LGBTQ+ slang

You might have heard of ‘slay’, ‘tea’, ‘shade’ and ‘queen’... but do you know where they originate from? Gen Z and millennials use these terms, in a variety of situations, from complimenting and hyping up their peers to expressing disrespect or disgust. But few seem to actually know where this slang came from

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz explains the origins of modern-day slang in queer subculture

June 27, 2024

Passion. Tension. Match point.

The film is not really about tennis, but about the tense, to-and-fro relationship that tennis represents. That sense of tension only adds to the desire-ridden love triangle that Italian director Luca Guadagnino paints in his sexy sports drama Challengers

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Challengers, a romantic tennis drama filled with desire

June 13, 2024

‘Say it loud, gay is proud’: A brief history of Pride Month

It’s June, which means that it’s Pride Month! Although it is still an ongoing battle to ensure equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, we have come a long way since the early days of the Pride movement. So let us take some time to discuss the origins of this incredible celebration of queerness

17 year-old Christian Yeung outlines the history of Pride Month

June 13, 2024

See you later, space cowboy…

Set in the not-so-distant future, where humans have finally reached the stars and developed a dysfunctional multi-planetary society, Cowboy Bebop is part Western, part space opera, part neo-noir, and all fun

17 year-old Christian Yeung explains the appeal of the 1998 cult classic anime Cowboy Bebop

June 06, 2024

Gen Z has mixed reactions to the 2024 Met Gala

The 2024 Met Gala, being a celebration that brings together the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and art, has received its feedback from Gen Z audiences and there is a lot to say

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza dissects Gen Z’s reactions to this year’s Met Gala in New York

June 06, 2024

Nineteen Eighty-Four: past, present and future

Nineteen Eighty-Four drew inspiration from the rise of totalitarian regimes by frightening readers with the threat of surveillance and loss of privacy. But what does that say about society today, where almost everyone has phones, tablets, computers, and smartwatches

17 year-old Justin Sau discusses the enduring relevance of Orwell’s masterpiece on its 75th birthday

May 30, 2024

Why everyone waited for Taylor Swift’s new album – including me

On the day that Taylor Swift released her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, the first thing I did upon waking up was to open my Apple Music app and listen to the first song on the album

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh gives her verdict on the American superstar’s latest release

May 23, 2024

Video games are the new way to experience stories

Video games are an untapped source of entertainment and stories. In a sense, it is a playable movie; something that you are both watching and controlling at the same time. Today, video games deliver a spectacle in both visuals and world-building

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the untapped potential of video games

May 23, 2024

Is the price of having an aesthetic too high?

With the rise of social media subcultures, aesthetics have become the new trend. This viral internet trend is becoming an obsession with reducing ourselves to a defined box and capitalising on our purchasing addiction to stay current, but at the expense of the environment and our authenticity

14 year-old Helena Bruździak delves into the social media phenomenon of Gen Z aesthetics

May 23, 2024

Teen hero returns for a second helping of heavy-hitting action and powerful emotions

Though not as powerful as the first season, season 2 of Invincible manages to stay fairly steady in terms of quality, with even the weaker episodes being resonant and exciting. I just hope we won’t have to wait another two years for the next season

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the second season of Amazon Prime’s animated superhero series Invincible

May 16, 2024

Dev Patel’s directorial debut goes bananas

In the world where John Wick and its imitators dominate the action movie genre, Dev Patel picks up a camera, directs and stars to deliver a unique piece full of passion and flare. Monkey Man might not push the boundaries of the genre, but it has everything to become an action cult classic

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Monkey Man, a gritty action movie with a rush of adrenaline

May 09, 2024

Are NBA referees killing the game of basketball?

From players making ‘money’ gestures to the referees, coaches angrily discussing film on laptops during press conferences, and even the league’s own Officiating Last Two-Minute Reports commonly displaying multiple incorrect calls, the state of basketball refereeing is incredibly dire. There needs to be more accountability for consistently inaccurate officiating

17 year-old Inika Singh explains the controversies surrounding NBA officiating

May 02, 2024

Women-only spaces are necessary, not sexist. Here’s why

While opponents can claim that the exclusion of men amounts to sex discrimination, many argue that women-only spaces are a solution to gender inequality. These places prioritise women’s well-being and ultimately, have no negative effect on anyone

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the importance of women-only spaces and announces the launch of the Women’s Desk at Harbingers’

May 02, 2024

Hollywood, please stop making movie musicals!

While stage-to-screen adaptations attempt to capture the essence of the original stories, there is a lingering sense that something is lost in translation – the raw and real energy of live theatre. Hollywood’s attempt to please everyone continually leaves no one satisfied

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala bemoans the adaptations of stage musicals to film

April 25, 2024

Bugs for dinner? Why eating insects is good for you…

Insects are one of the most sustainable food sources we have. Across the world, eating insects remains an important tradition. But not in the West – instead, there are fierce stigmas that surround entomophagy

17 year-old Anna Louise Lovat explains entomophagy and why it could be the next big thing

April 25, 2024

An adventurous meditation on love soaked with Italian magic –La Chimera review

Every frame of Italian director Alice Rorhwacher’s La Chimera (a chimera is an illusion or invention of the mind) is permeated with the mythical magic and dizziness of the scorching Italian sun. It manages to be fantastical, amusing, and romantic all at once

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the captivating and dreamy Italian film

April 25, 2024

We are bored: Gifted students need challenge to thrive

Gifted and Talented programs have helped students worldwide to enrich their learning. MACC, the Vancouver school program which accelerated the pace of the standard curriculum, has now been redesigned to shorten the support provided to students

18 year-old Erin Walshaw talks about her experience as a gifted student in Vancouver – and the problems she faces

April 18, 2024

‘Misinformation is now produced on an industrial scale’ – Concerns over propaganda on social media

Three in ten children aged 12–15 used TikTok as a news source in 2022. With the rapid growth of social media, misinformation is both accessible and actively promoted to vulnerable young people on an unprecedented scale

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz interviews history student, Gabrielle Segal, on misinformation and propaganda

April 18, 2024

A guide to Holi – The Hindu festival of colour

Celebrated during the months of Chaitra and Falgun in the Nepali calendar, Holi is a major event. In the capital, Kathmandu, it is full of noisy laughing crowds of people splattered in different colours

Students aged 11-18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project shared their celebration of Holi Festival

April 18, 2024

Esports is a sport. Period

Despite its rapid growth, competitive online gaming isn't given the same respect as basketball or football, with many still believing it is just an activity for lazy nerds sitting in their mom's basement. So why should esports be considered a sport?

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the acknowledgment that esports deserves

April 18, 2024

Womansplaining mansplaining

Mansplaining. If you’re a woman, I can almost guarantee that you sighed at that word. Societal history has allowed for sexism to take route but there are steps we can take today to reevaluate and correct these behaviours

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains mansplaining and how to break the cycle

April 11, 2024

Teens don’t owe you opinions

As a generation we are more motivated than most before us. In spite of adults attempting to skew the opinions of teens on a vast array of unsolvable problems we should craft our own opinions and choose which to fight for

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil on the overloaded choices young people face on social media

March 29, 2024

Why Ukrainians speak Russian

When I’m asked why so many other Ukrainian refugees speak Russian, I am not sure what to answer, as the answer lies beneath complex layers of oppression from our neighbouring country – it is not a preference.

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines the history of linguicide in Ukraine

March 22, 2024

Netflix’s release strategies are dangerous to auteur cinema

As the 2023 award season comes to an end, Netflix has once again gained global recognition for its original content. But could the streaming giant in its pursuit of acclaim pose a danger to the future of cinema?

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the dangers of a never-ending stream of content

March 15, 2024

We’re not ‘lazy’, technology has simply made jobs easier and more profitable

“Lazy,” “entitled,” “careless” and “lacklustre” are just some of the words used to describe my generation. But is Gen Z deserving of such names or are these just amplified misconceptions?

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on corporate rejection amid the changing workplace

March 15, 2024

A medium for kids? Why we should award more Oscars to animated films

Many anime films have received universal praise for their unique storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, yet are largely ignored in other categories at the Oscars. As one of the leading authorities on film, the Academy must spearhead the effort to challenge preconceived notions that animation can’t be taken seriously

17 year-old Justin Sau on the greater recognition animated films deserve

March 08, 2024

Singaporean LGBTQ+ community still faces a ‘long road ahead’ despite constitutional changes

Despite a shift in governmental policies towards the LGBTQ+ community, discrimination still exists. The government continues to advocate for family units being strictly heterosexual to ‘protect’ the marriage constitution

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang explores progressive steps towards equality

March 08, 2024

Unique Nepali foods everyone must taste once in their life

Young people in Kathmandu shared with Harbingers’ the traditional dishes they would like every reader to try once landing themselves at the feet of the Himalayas

11 students from Nepal recommend outstanding Nepali cuisine

March 08, 2024

How many water bottles is too many? The state of overconsumption in America

Stanley Cups recently saw an astronomical increase in sales coupled with a social media craze. Companies continue to capitalize on the fear of missing out and influencer-led marketing campaigns

17 year-old Christian Yeung speaks with economy expert Brianne Foley

March 01, 2024

Miyazaki’s perfect blend of magic and existentialism –The Boy And The Heron Review

Beautiful both visually and story-wise, The Boy And The Heron is a must-watch. It is suitable for every age as almost everyone will find something in the film to relate to

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on tantalising cinematography in an emotive animated film

March 01, 2024

10 things you should know about Nepal

From festivals and culture to world heritage sites and areas of natural beauty, teenage journalists in Kathmandu each share one fact about their home country Nepal

Teenagers aged 11-18 from the Mountain Children Home share the beauty of Nepal

March 01, 2024

Why growing up as a young woman is scary: A teen’s perspective from Poland

Despite the global progress made in women’s rights in the past few decades, Poland still has a long way to go. The country’s strict abortion laws, gender pay gap and prescribed lifestyle for a woman’s future fills me with fear

17 year-old Maria Mitko on the daunting reality of womanhood

February 23, 2024

Simple, sexy film that brings new life to the rom-com genre. Anyone But You Review

Charming leads, an intriguing set-up and a “parent trap” meets enemies-to-lovers trope, what more is there to wish for?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the explosive chemistry of the newest grand rom-com

February 16, 2024

Students and teachers fight back against the ‘library selection rubric’ in a Texas public school

Teachers and students in the school district have spoken out against the school board’s decision to filter the literature kept in classroom libraries after complaints from parents

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores book banning in the United States

February 16, 2024

Lights out: Broadway shows close prematurely

Since its post-pandemic return, Broadway has struggled to reach its previous levels of success. Closely tied to tourism numbers, theatres are still unable to fill seats and shows are suffering from early closures

17 year-old Alia Saphier reports on the decline of new acclaimed theatre

February 09, 2024

‘Never-ending search for the snooze button’. Can AI replace humans in writing poetry?

Long considered one of the purest forms of human emotion and expression, will AI be able to produce works that resonate on a profoundly human level like poetry should? Finnish author Jukka Aalho may hold the answer

17 year-old Justin Sau analyses computer-generated poems

February 02, 2024

What’s the whole buzz about? The Grammy Awards explained

As we approach the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, held annually by the Recording Academy, here are the things you need to know to fully appreciate the upcoming ceremony

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh looks under the red carpet of Recording Academy awards

January 26, 2024

The rise of careless consumerism among young people

Rapid consumerism fueled by short trend cycles are promoting an unsustainable mindset among the young that clothes are temporary and easily replaceable, ignoring the environmental crisis

17 year-old Shriya Kalluri explores the link between social media and fast-fashion

January 26, 2024

Unattainable ‘angel status’. Patriarchy still skews the narratives of women in power

From fashion breakdowns to dating habits, selective media reporting has long attempted to reduce women in the spotlight to harmful gender stereotypes’

17 year-old Alia Saphier critiques the media’s continual repression of women

January 26, 2024

Let’s take music seriously. It’s not a soundtrack for picking vegetables at a supermarket

Have we lost the ability to appreciate music? The greatest talent which humanity ever had to offer is now persistently used to assist everyday activities

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh shares ways to better immerse yourself in music

January 26, 2024

Why I hated Poor Things but will watch it again and again

The star-studded cast movingly invokes the sense of the uncanny, something that lies at the heart of this modern ‘Frankenstein’ tale

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on female depictions in Yorgos Lanthimos’s film

January 19, 2024

Doja Cat’s ‘devilish’ controversy. A marketing move or reason for concern?

Doja Cat finds herself amidst whispers of a supposed ‘deal with the devil’. Should her actions be perceived as a deliberate marketing strategy to keep the spotlight burning or as signs of troubling mental health concerns?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei explores the corrupt nature of fame

January 12, 2024

Has the movie industry transformed into a risk-averse machine?

As the tsunami of reboots and remakes continues to threaten to overwhelm us, it's crucial to recognize the consequences of this trend. While nostalgia can provide moments of joy and familiarity, it should not be a substitute for genuine creativity

16 year-old Justin Sau criticises the culture of remakes

January 12, 2024

Messy biopic where only battlefields shine: Napoleon review

Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby put on grand performances that are still not enough to save the film from coming across as bloated

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest box office disappointment

January 05, 2024

She is your mirror, and both of you will mirror our reality: May December review

Netflix dropped its Oscar contender, an eerie drama by Todd Haynes which delivers a slow-burner that hits you in the guts

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the masterfully crafted new film

December 22, 2023

Why is Spotify Wrapped such a buzz?

Generation Z has a strong affinity for Spotify Wrapped – a tailored compilation of user statistics for the year, including top artists and total listening minutes – as it reflects their “musical journey” throughout the year

16 year-old Maria Mitko interviews young people about the viral marketing campaign

December 22, 2023

A film equivalent to a long hug encapsulates the Christmas spirit. The Holdovers review

The story of three unlikely individuals finding a family bond in uncertain circumstances is medicine for a broken heart. And with its emotional warmth and sentimentally cheerful ending, ‘The Holdovers’ still touches on severe topics of grief and depression - and does that quite well

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on a future Christmas classic

December 15, 2023

“We aren’t faking it.” Tic sufferer warns over condition’s representation on social media

From mediaeval peasants plagued by an uncontrollable urge to dance, to nuns experiencing mass possessions in convents - mass sociogenic illnesses (MSIs) have played a role in history and can also be seen in the present day

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna reports on mass social media-induced illnesses (MSMIs)

December 15, 2023

Rap music on trial. Debate resurfaces over evidence ruling in Young Thug case

The issue of using rap lyrics as evidence in court has recently been reignited by such a high-profile case. Young Thug and his legal team assert that the use of lyrics in court is prejudicial and could affect his right to freedom of speech

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz reports on using art as confession

December 08, 2023

Don't just diversify the curriculum, decolonise it

The diversified curriculum does not challenge societal power structures which narrow the dominant perspective through which we view the world. It is imperative that we do not stop here

Sanaa Pasha on the diluted version of colonial history in education

December 08, 2023

Fast fashion’s ugly secret. Numerous brands in legal trouble over intellectual property theft

The fast fashion industry has long been infamous for its exploitation of vulnerable labourers, waste production, and environmental degradation. More recently, however, intellectual property scandals have also mounted against some notable fashion corporations

16 year-old Tanya Chi reports on independent designers’ accusations

December 01, 2023

Perhaps it is time to cancel ‘cancel culture’

To many, ‘cancel culture’ and the act of boycotting a public figure, has become an important tool of social justice. However, ‘cancel culture’ prioritises public condemnation without fostering constructive dialogue or providing opportunities for redemption

17 year-old Megan Lee on the social justice of "cancelling"

December 01, 2023

How social media influencers reshaped the global marketing landscape

Social media influencers have become crucial drivers of the economy, and their contribution to the global market cannot be ignored. With the rise of social media, e-commerce has taken on a whole new level of significance

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the rising value of e-commerce

November 24, 2023

An unexpected ally: how social media could revitalize reading culture

It's high time we put down the pitchforks and extinguish the torches we've been brandishing at TikTok and Instagram. As it turns out, amidst the sea of hashtags and memes, a world of literary innovation awaits

16 year-old Justin Sau explores the boom in reading culture

November 17, 2023

Destruction in devotion: how do cults weaponise human vulnerability?

The ambiguity of an ‘end to all’ has been used as a form of exploitation to keep people fearful and submissive – and Charles Manson’s “Helter Skelter” prophecy, a vision heralding an apocalyptic race war, might serve as an example

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explores how cult leaders use fear to exert power

November 10, 2023

Is Hollywood saved now the writers’ strike has ended?

Strikes of actors and writers have cost the industry over $6 billion. After all the developments, many teenagers who dream of putting their stories on the big screens began to wonder: is entering the writing industry a good choice?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the aftermath of the writer’s strike

November 03, 2023

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour breaks all records. The phenomenon of the star explained

In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, where stars are rising and falling in the blink of an eye, one name has consistently defied the odds: Taylor Swift. What is the secret behind a country girl who not only stays afloat but continues to be on top of one of the most competitive industries in the world?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the origins of America’s superstar

October 27, 2023

It’s Haunting. Killers Of The Flower Moon review

Released last week, ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ delivers an ultimate epic of love, betrayal, and the nature of evil - unveiling this dark, twisted chapter in American history

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin praises new film from Martin Scorsese

October 20, 2023

Why the hell is Holden Caulfield the most relatable character I’ve ever read about?

It is extremely hard to know exactly how we wish our lives to turn out at sixteen. Holden is a byword for this identity crisis, reflecting my experience having contradictory feelings running through at such a pace that I feel trapped and unable to process it all

16 year-old Maria Mitko watches her reflection in Salinger’s famous novel

October 13, 2023

‘When I am an old woman I shall wear purple, with a red hat that doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me’

The poem represents the freedom of being old and the message of seeing ageing as a positive experience - something to cherish - which has resonated with me since I first heard it at barely five years-old

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz wins the Harbinger Prize in Photography

October 06, 2023

‘It’s like an addiction’ — American teenagers fall victim to online sports gambling apps

Whether through indirect or direct means, teenagers are being influenced to pursue online sports gambling. The rapidly growing industry is preying on those with underdeveloped minds, increasing profits to the detriment of future generations

17 year-old Arham Shah wins the Harbinger Prize in Economics

September 08, 2023

Dying languages: Cultures are being eradicated in silence

Language is often reduced to a tool for basic communication, neglecting its human and cultural significance. Global warming and urbanisation are forcing linguistically diverse communities to migrate, assimilate, and abandon their ancestral tongues

Sophie Yu on the fight to save forgotten languages

August 25, 2023

Why was 'Secret Invasion' such a flop?

The biggest disappointment is that for a show with shape-shifting aliens it has absolutely no mystery, which is so needed here. 'Secret Invasion' does a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, which essentially comes back to its cheapness

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the wasted potential of the Marvel star-studded series

August 14, 2023

How samurai traditions live on through Kendo - a sport rooted in ancient Japanese culture

“The cultural and ceremonial aspects of Kendo hold great importance. Kendo represents not only a sport or technique but also embodies a martial art rooted in rich history and tradition. It reflects the enduring spirit passed down through generations”

15 year-old Noah Saphier shares valuable lessons from Kato Sensei

August 13, 2023

Contested artefacts from the British Museum: 7 things you need to know

In recent years, many countries where these artefacts originated have become more vocal in calling for their return, arguing that the objects were taken unethically and without consent

16 year-old Justin Sau outlines the appeals for repatriation

August 11, 2023

To solve US alcoholism youth should be drinking sooner. Here’s why

From completely banning alcohol to lowering the legal drinking age to 18, to raising it again to 21, nothing seems to solve US alcoholism. I feel that creating any type of concrete barrier creates desire for youth, it creates a natural incentive to want it more

15 year-old Noah Saphier on the legal age of drinking

August 09, 2023

Oppenheimer review: Three-hour long biopic nothing short of mind-blowing

In unity with cinematography, sound design, and the soundtrack Nolan creates a horrifically immersive experience which controls every atom in the viewer's body

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Nolan’s newest blockbuster

July 28, 2023

Barbie review: A must-watch, the allegedly ‘anti-men’ pink extravaganza will make you cry

Barbie is a must-watch for everyone, for young and for old, for women and men. It’s a beautiful story with a powerful message which will leave you thinking about your own experiences and understanding of the patriarchy and how it in fact isn’t about horses

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reviews the record-breaking box office film

July 21, 2023

Days that marked Afghan girls’ lives

There are days in everyone’s lives that they mark the most regardless of being good or bad. Five students of the journalism learning project at Harbingers’ Magazine – Shanhaza (17), Swita (16), Zainab (13), Naziya (13) and Zohra (17) – interviewed each other to find out about the days that impacted them the most

13-17 year-old OXSFJ and LEARN Afghan students share their life experiences

July 21, 2023

Actors joined striking writers to save Hollywood as we know it

With actors’ walk-outs – including at the notable premiere of Oppenheimer in London, where Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, and Florence Pugh all left the theatre – and arrested productions, the entertainment industry is suffering colossal stock price losses

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on the ongoing strike

July 14, 2023

'Barbenheimer': is this the most important box office battle in a decade

Barbie is winning, and it is hardly surprising. After all, one film is about dealing with mortality, the sense of self purpose, and challenging American elites, and the other one is a historical thriller titled Oppenheimer

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on ‘counterprogramming’ movie marketing

July 14, 2023

Rooney’s debut is a must-read for young people. Conversations with Friends review

Sally Rooney did a fantastic job levelling with the reader on many personal, almost gentle levels. This makes this book a must-read for young people – teenagers, those in their 20s or even 30s – who want a light read that also touches you and makes you ask questions you never thought would occur

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reminds of Rooney’s 2017 masterpiece

July 14, 2023

Lewis Capaldi talks mental health after Glastonbury stage Tourette’s

The Someone You Loved artist faced a moment of crisis when performing at Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the lesson learnt at Glastonbury

June 30, 2023

A story that will keep you webbed to the seat. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse review

The sequel takes everything the audience loved about the first Spider-Verse movie and turns it up a notch – if not more

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

June 30, 2023

Auto-tune overload. Aren’t we sacrificing musicality for so-called perfection?

Excessive use of auto-tune technology, especially when employed to distort the voice during a live performance, sparks debates about authenticity and emotional connection with the audience

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei takes the side of human imperfection

June 30, 2023

Rare glimpse into 21st century politics of sex and desire. The Right to Sex review

Amia Srinivasan’s collection of six nonfiction essays is an impressive debut. Writing about rape culture, student-professor relationships, prostitution, and pornography, Srinivasan is unafraid to linger near the precipice of taboo

17 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews the 2022 Orwell Prize shortlisted book

June 23, 2023

Animal testing made its way onto the big screen. It may be a sign of change

Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3 is more than a great movie - it also offers insight into cruelty disguised as animal testing

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal testing

June 23, 2023

The art of ‘bad’ art: on Tracey Emin’s My Bed

In Tracey Emin’s My Bed, we realize that art is about expression, meaning, and the authenticity of human emotion. In using such an evocative installation, Emin not only illustrates the active and almost rebellious voice she takes on as an artist but emphasizes the beauty in chaos

17 year-old Megan Lee explores the art of confession

June 09, 2023

Should English Literature be replaced by Global Literature in schools?

In our increasingly diverse and globalized society, the Western canon seems not only restrictive but also exclusionary, calling into question whether the subject of English Literature should be replaced by Global Literature to best reflect the status quo at hand

Megan Lee considers the value behind teaching literature

May 19, 2023

‘Quantity of good Ukrainian music has risen on an aspirational scale’

“We need to win the war and start rebuilding. Not only buildings and infrastructure but also our culture. Because there will come a moment of exhaustion after such a long fight, but we still need not forget that there is a future”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews 19-year-old musician and producer Bogdan “SadSvit” Rozvadovskyi

April 14, 2023

Ukrainian music is much more than ‘sharovarshcyna’. Meet four ‘hidden gems’ bands and artists

The world is now starting to realise how unique and vast the Ukrainian culture is. With music being a major part of it, we, the Ukrainians hope that soon we will no longer be prisoners of the ‘traditional folk’ paradigm - that Ukrainian music ceases to be.

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko shares four up-and-coming Ukrainian artists

April 07, 2023

Navalny should not have been a winner of an Oscar award

This movie being recognised and celebrated is unacceptable, no matter how good the quality of it might be. Such distinguished organisations with influential platforms like the Academy should consider the context of the movie before representing it

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the political messages of award-winning films

March 24, 2023

Babylon’s storytelling of early Hollywood failed to hit the mark - it instead made me gag

While I am not a particular fan of graphic and aggressive movies, I was excited for Babylon. So obviously, my expectations were high, and I decided to throw away my initial biases against Babylon and its gruesomeness. So what did this three-hour long extravaganza provide me with? Nothing but disappointment.

Sofia Radysh's take on the all-star Hollywood film Babylon

March 17, 2023

How political art is used to influence people

Art, as a reflection of an artist’s view of the world, is influenced by the events happening around, including politics and wars. And just like art, propaganda is also influenced by them. Propaganda, as it is known, is the dissemination of information to influence public opinion

16 year-old Kateryna Kalyniuk outlines the history of propaganda

March 09, 2023

Are the Peranakans a part of Singapore’s past or a heritage shaping my life choices?

As I deepened my research into Peranakans, I began to realise that my ancestors far exceed their reputation as creators of imaginative cuisine and eclectic architecture. In fact, the culture not only shapes the Singapore we see today but has largely influenced the choices I have made in life

16 year-old Jinn Ong inquires whether and how it is possible to be Peranakan in the 21st century

December 26, 2022

Regardless of the production, beauty overrules iniquity. On religion and ethics in Tosca

“The arch of the whole opera questions what religion, spirituality and Catholic hypocrisy are,” said Michael Gieleta when on the opening night, I spoke to him about his production’s interpretation of Tosca’s religious themes. “This concerns Tosca herself, who drew moral superiority from murdering Scarpia and took her own life - two cardinal sins according to the Catholic Church teachings.”

Sophie Elliott investigates the famous opera

December 07, 2022

(Un)Open art. Why is modern art so intimidating?

The feeling of misunderstanding art usually evolves from a lack of curated education. But if art is supposed to be free, should education truly play a crucial role in enjoying it?

Maria Chernova shares her opinion on the openness of art and closedness of art recipients.

November 17, 2022

Art of forgetting and remembering. On Lithuania's path to the commemoration of Holocaust victims

Memory is by no means neutral, and the pain of it demands decision. To what extent should we remember at all? What does it mean to remember rightly? Is the idea of memory even possible?

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on relations between art and history

October 07, 2022

The Witcher - a feminist manifesto or a misogynistic tale?

Sapkowski’s saga is not only a fantasy tale - it is also a social commentary. That’s why the TV adaptation has brought into the limelight various types of discrimination, prejudice, and hate-rooted violence

Aleksandra Lasek inquires into the success of Yennefer of Vengerberg as a feminist role model

October 03, 2022

How jokes on TikTok help Ukrainians

Even during the war, people of different ages can still have a sense of humour and make jokes - which is an essential part of Ukrainian culture

Maria Chernova discusses how jokes on TikTok are helping her and other Ukrainians during the war

September 30, 2022

Herbal Insurgency: Wielding Knowledge to Heal and Harm Under Southern Enslavement

Through their knowledge of healing and harming, enslaved people were able to create small but vital spaces of healing and alternative power within the totalizing structures of Southern enslavement laws

William Derek Pacini examines the history of herbal expertise as a form of resistance and a means to freedom

September 18, 2022

Art of humanity. Why Lithuanian Jews took part in the fight against apartheid in South Africa

Once kindness becomes prevalent, it appears to be spreading. Human relations develop as we experience the inevitability of life - whether it is peace or war, core human values remain the same. A formation of a crystal – I think of an artwork I saw in Kaunas, depicting the bonding of ions and atoms which make the crystal grow - is parallel to how human relations develop.

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on the lesson from an art festival in Kaunas, Lithuania

September 14, 2022

The Cupping Room

With the beans right in front of me, I could almost taste the coffee. The sweet and the tangy, the heavy notes and light texture barraging my nose. Tamie described to us the small yet complicated process of coffee roasting

16 year-old Christian Yeung takes a first step into the world of coffee culture, attending a roasting session at The Cupping Room

September 12, 2022

INO’s Tosca: the aesthetics of agency

Tosca offers a compelling evaluation of the complexities of female agency. She is an immensely complicated character—both pious and charitable, but also jealous, impetuous, passionate, and artistic

16 year-old Sophie Elliott analyses the Irish National Opera’s performance of Tosca with the backdrop of its political roots

August 23, 2022

The voice of fashion stands in solidarity with Ukraine

As we say in Ukraine: “everything will be Ukraine!”. And if so, everything and everyone – including the fashion industry – must admit its political side

Maria Rybak describes how the fashion industry responded to the war in Ukraine

August 16, 2022

Norman Davies: In 1919, Soviet invasion bolstered Polish national identity. Now it happens in Ukraine

“In 1920, nobody, no experts, no generals gave Poland a chance. In February, no experts gave Ukrainians much of a chance. The Ukrainians captured Russian tanks where the men were dressed in parade uniforms”

An interview by 18 year-old Jeremi Kulczyk-Lubomirski and 16 year-old Maciej Cebula

August 15, 2022

Bat girls for life? — Nothing about Batgirl said ‘cancel worthy’

Movies are not viewed as a piece of art anymore, they are investment assets. If something doesn't work out they can simply be dumped

16 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on what Batgirl’s cancellation could mean for the film industry

August 11, 2022

United shock, Jesus to flourish under Arteta

Anticipation for the Premier League has now kicked off, with devoted fans eager to find out how their team will do this season

16 year-old Timur Boranbayev gives his predictions for the upcoming Premiership season

August 10, 2022

Ersatz Austen of cheap laughs and romance. Persuasion review

The greatest failing of Netflix's film is that it neither commits to being a faithful adaptation of Austen’s regency, nor a modern rendering loosely based on original content

16 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews streaming giant's take on Austen’s classic novel

August 08, 2022

Women’s Euro 2022, a success and an inspiration to the female youth

It is very refreshing to see how female sport is gaining more recognition and the respect it deserves. Women's football is the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it will be interesting to see how female athletes and sport will develop over the next decade

Timur and Sofiya report on public opinions towards Lionesses’ win in the final

August 04, 2022

Cost of a trendy pup; the flat-faced issue explained

Humanity has been playing god and creating new breeds for a long time now, and the moment to take responsibility has arrived

16 year-old Sofia Radysh investigates the problems of Brachycephalic dogs

July 18, 2022

A mirror to Britain’s homophobia. Joe Lycett: More, More, More! review

While this show’s comedy is structured to identify and poke fun at British conservative society, it is done so in a cheerful and carefree way which prevents the jokes from being destructive in any way

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse reviews Joe Lycett’s touring show

July 17, 2022

Your first lesson in Swahili

My first language is Swahili - and today I will share with you some basic words of this language.

14 year-old Lydia Gaspar introduces her native language

June 23, 2022

Invest in good mathematicians. Weapons of Math Destruction review

Ill-conceived algorithms are strengthening injustice, inequality and prejudice across law enforcement, education, labour, banking and housing.

Natasha Banga reviews Cathy O’Neil’s book

June 22, 2022

A thought-provoking experience. For better or worse. How to Blow Up a Pipeline review

In his 2020 book a leading Swedish climate activist since the 1990s condemns the nonviolent methods mobilised in the climate movement by claiming they only promote passivity—instead, offering us a historical argument, Malm persuasively argues for a more aggressive and confrontational approach.

Sophie Elliott reviews Andreas Malm’s How to Blow Up a Pipeline

March 05, 2022

Entertaining and engaging, yet with a moral dilemma. The Cheese and the Worms review

You may rightfully be thinking, "Cheese? Worms? Millers? Sixteenth-century? Really?” I also have little interest in the Fruili region of Italy, especially in the 1500s - yet this book had me hooked from the very first page.

Marsi Hadijeva revisits Carlo Ginzburg’s 1976 classic

March 04, 2022

Exceptional writing, but stories are hit or miss. On A Registry of My Passage Upon the Earth

Two years since the publication of his last book, The Winter Soldier, psychiatrist Daniel Mason returns with his latest collection of human survival stories.

Noemi Elliott reviews a collection of short stories

February 09, 2022

Spot-on image of how Gen Z tends to cope by taking everything as a joke. Don’t look up review

The planet-killing comet is quite obviously today’s global warming climate crisis. The scientific reasoning is there, the facts are there, the evidence is there - and yet, many still refuse to believe in this pressing issue.

Sofiya Suleimenova reviews Adam McKay’s political satire

February 08, 2022

A delightful read for any Austen fan. Jane Austen, Early and Late review

The degree of insight makes a joy solely reserved for Austen fans. Others would likely find the parallels between Northanger Abbey and Persuasion tiresome - although I must confess I never knew that Northanger Abbey contains 24 instances of “persuasion,” only eight fewer than the 32 in Persuasion!

Noemi Elliott reviews Freya Johnston’s book

February 02, 2022

‘Pay me the respect due’. Sidney Poitier as a symbol of perseverance

Barack Obama, who awarded Poiter the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, wrote: “Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors.”

Sofiya Suleimenova reflects on ethics lessons from the late American movie giant

January 26, 2022

Darkness, a poem Wisława Szymborska did not write

A pastiche is a work of art that aims to imitate the style of another work or artist. It is a device regularly used in many different mediums, including literature, music, and visual art. For example, Shakespeare’s famous balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet has been a theme for endless pastiches - it was also arguably the inspiration for the happy ending scene in Pretty Woman.

Daria Badger interviews Polish pastiche poetry writer Grzegorz Uzdański - and translates one of his works to English

January 24, 2022

Every bit as real that the reader hopes the story were pure fiction. The Fortune Men review

Nearing the 70th anniversary of the court murder commited in Wales, we realize that not much has changed these past decades.

Noemi Elliott reviews Nadifa Mohamed’s novel

September 19, 2021

Nature and Privation in Three Romani Poets

The generation born after the war was raised amidst the turmoil of social transformation, evolving governmental edicts, and the challenges of dwelling among often unwelcoming ethnic Hungarians. The poetry of these postwar Roma poets reflects these challenges.

Noemi Elliot on Roma poets and their artistic sensibilities

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