opinion

May 09, 2025

Why plastic waste is a major problem in Nepal

We live in the Mountain Children Home, located in Dandagaun, north of Kathmandu and on the bank of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The park is a shelter for several animals including bears, leopards and monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds. However, plastics are littered close to and inside the park due to human encroachment, and innocent animals consume them unknowingly, causing them several health issues

Binita Nepali, 16, and Rakshya B.K, 14, from the Nepali Newsroom explain the problems with plastic pollution

May 09, 2025

Cate Blanchett excels in Chekov’s timeless tribute to theatre

Anton Chekhov’s 1896 play The Seagull takes place at a country estate by the lake – which is precisely what one sees when sitting at the Barbican Theatre in London. The audience is where the body of water would be, turning the stage edge into the shore, with the centre of the set (designed by Magda Willi) occupied by reeds from which actors emerge. Folding chairs add a relaxed atmosphere of a country retreat

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews Chekhov’s play The Seagull, on a limited run in London

May 02, 2025

Girl, you’re weird… and I love it!

Have you noticed that recently girls are trying so hard to be different, by mismatching outfit pieces, saying quirky things, and trying to have niche interests? It seems to be mainly 14-year-olds and above. As a 17-year-old, I’ve been doing it too

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko explains the “weird girl’ trend that is embraced by every generation, but with a twist

April 18, 2025

Why teaching philosophy can help children in all areas of life

Many of the four million young people currently being educated in Australian schools feel that the system neglects them. The Grattan Institute, an independent think tank, summarises the state of the nation when it identifies one in four students as “compliant but quietly disengaged”

17-year-old Olivia Campbell argues for making philosophy integral to Australian education

April 18, 2025

How Trump’s new America is changing my plans for the future

Like many, I have often imagined myself living in the United States – the land of the free, where millions work towards the American dream. However, Trump’s version of America makes me question whether I still want to live there in the future

16-year-old Lola Kadas explains why President Trump is failing the American dream

April 11, 2025

Is 1984 happening again? Why we should heed dystopian warnings

The relevance of dystopian novels in the world today is frightening and devastatingly upsetting. Current political and social landscapes bear an unbelievable resemblance to some of the greatest pieces of literature. Are we living out dystopian predictions?

18-year-old Maria Mitko on how dystopian fiction mirrors our world today and why that’s terrifying

April 11, 2025

Why Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind is my role model

Scarlett O’Hara is not only one of the most famous fictional female protagonists of all time, but one of the most controversial too. The main character of Margaret Mitchell's epic novel Gone With the Wind has been a subject of debate since the book was first published in 1936

17-year-old Ashley Solace argues that we should admire and applaud Scarlett, despite her many flaws

April 11, 2025

How skiers and snowboarders are adapting to climate change

Due to the war in my home country, I moved to Copenhagen 18 months ago, and decided to try freestyle snowboarding - a branch of snowboarding that includes tricks on various obstacles and big air jumps. I found sessions at CopenHill, an artificial ski slope in the middle of the city. After meeting many other free skiers and snowboarders, I realised how popular dry-slope skiing is becoming and that it is directly linked to climate change

17-year-old Varvara Tkachenko explains how she’s learned to love snowboarding on an artificial slope

April 04, 2025

Germans are never late and can’t party? Gen Z doesn’t quite agree

Growing up in Germany, stereotypes have always surrounded me – from punctuality to humourlessness. These perceptions stem from history, politics and global impressions. While they might contain a grain of truth, they rarely capture the full picture.

19-year-old Flora Lodd examines her generation’s take on five common stereotypes about Germans

April 04, 2025

Gen Z teens want a digital detox and to embrace analogue life

As a 16-year-old Gen Z, the digital world has almost always been in my life and a subject of conversation in my community. Throughout my childhood, I remember constantly disagreeing with my parents about the amount of time I spent in front of a screen. I thought I was spending a relatively short amount of time online, but my parents always said it was too much

16-year-old Camille Hasbani admits her parents are right about the use of social media

March 20, 2025

Long-awaited wins, surprising snubs and fantastic music: The Grammys 2025 were pure entertainment

A night of spectacular performances, sparkling fashion and fundraising for the LA fires, the 2025 Grammys were full of excitement and celebration for a shining year of music. The biggest date in the US music industry’s calendar, this year’s event – held on 2 February in Los Angeles, California – included more than 20 performances and awards in 94 categories and was exhilarating for music lovers across the globe

18-year-old Alia Saphier reviews the US music industry’s biggest night after an unforgettable year

March 20, 2025

The death of movie etiquette: Why I dislike going to the cinema

It’s a known fact that, for many, going to the cinema represents the pinnacle of entertainment. For me, however, it feels more like an exercise in endurance than an enjoyable experience

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains why going to the cinema nowadays isn’t the pleasure it should be

March 13, 2025

Is this real life?

While this article does not intend to approach that question or give you an existential crisis, as with such mind-bending movies as Inception (2010) or The Matrix (1999), I do intend to explore the question of how film can affect our reality. The big question for film fanatics like myself is: do movies mimic life or does life mimic movies?

17-year-old Reva Sobti asks if films and the media reflect society or magnify its darkest issues

March 13, 2025

Why I chose stocks over Fortnite – and never looked back

The longer you invest for, the greater your capacity to weather market volatility and profit from your growing investments. Being teens, we have decades in front of us and can afford to take calculated risks, knowing that we have time on our side. Why not harness this advantage to build a financial foundation that can set you up for life?

15-year-old Arnav Maheshwari shares his investing journey, and explains how you can do it yourself

March 13, 2025

My very Jewish Christmas

In my household, the 25th of December is dedicated to every holiday movie Netflix has to offer, especially the cheesy, guy-gets-the-girl romcoms. It’s our tradition and I’m a sucker for a running-through-the-airport scene. But there’s always something missing

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the history of antisemitic tropes in culture and entertainment

March 07, 2025

My fond farewell to Harbingers’

As I and the rest of the 2024 editorial board are also spending our final few days at Harbingers’ Magazine, I thought it was fitting for us to have a little celebration of our work over the past year. This is in no way a complete or conclusive set of thoughts and opinions from everyone involved, but just a few musings, which I believe the staff and our readers might appreciate and have a laugh at

18-year-old Christian Yeung says goodbye to the publication and the 2024 editorial team

March 07, 2025

Spectacular acrobatics, but without the story or magic of The Greatest Showman film

As a fan of the 2017 movie musical The Greatest Showman, I was an obvious candidate to see the new Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular at the Empress Museum in London. I have to say that I was greatly disappointed, as many elements of it failed to reach my expectations

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews a new show that fuses songs from the hit movie with circus acts

February 28, 2025

My journey to self-appreciation and what I learned along the way

I’ve learned that growth often comes from discomfort. While I’ll always appreciate my introverted roots, I now embrace opportunities to connect with others, knowing that the most meaningful moments often happen when we step out of our comfort zones

19-year-old Flora Lodd shares how learning to be an extrovert changed her view on self-worth

February 28, 2025

Three dots aren’t always bearers of bad news…

Has your heart ever skipped a beat upon receiving a text from your parents ending with those dreaded three little dots? Mine certainly has – more times than I can count. Whether it’s a curt “We need to talk…” or the ominous “It’s time to get home…,” an ellipsis always carries an undertone of passive-aggressive unease

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert on generational differences in the use and meaning of the ellipsis

February 21, 2025

Goodbye, and thanks for the memories: Thoughts on Australia’s social media ban for under-16s

Australia has recently passed a measure to ban social media for under-16s. What are the benefits and costs of this decision? And will it do anything at all?

17-year-old Olivia Campbell considers the implications of Australia’s ban on social media for teens

January 31, 2025

Taylor Swift deserved the top spot at Billboard. Period

In early December, Billboard released its editorial ranking of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century, crowning Beyoncé at number one, followed by Taylor Swift. While the list celebrates two extraordinary women, it upset many fans, including myself

16-year-old Lola Kadas argues that Taylor Swift’s cultural influence makes her the top pop star

January 19, 2025

How we plan to reach for the stars: Our journey with CanSat

Our AstroSat team, consisting of four students from Warsaw, including myself, is participating in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) prestigious CanSat 2024–25 competition. Together, we aim to transform our classroom knowledge into a tangible mission by designing, building and launching a fully functional miniature satellite

17-year-old Fryderyk Boniecki on his team’s mission to build a fully functional mini satellite

January 17, 2025

Classics vs. clichés: The lost art of love in literature

In a recent class, our teacher told us to read a simple, crude juvenile book about love. When asked why we weren’t being given a more challenging novel, their response was simple: “These books are supposed to appeal to teenagers. If we gave you a classic, you’d get bored and just not read it.”

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei argues for why it’s still important to read Jane Austen and other classics

December 26, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Economics section

This has been a turbulent year in terms of economic news. With many transitions of leadership across the world, from elections in the UK and the US to new leaders being named in Vietnam and Senegal, the economy has followed suit in its many fluctuations and uncertainties over 2024

17-year-old Camilla Savelieva shines a spotlight on her favourite Economics articles from the past year

December 19, 2024

Everything you know about pitbulls is wrong

The negative stereotypes of pitbull dogs, labelling them as aggressive and dangerous, have been around for too long. The bias has affected the perception of this sweet dog breed. Almost everything you’ve heard isn’t true

18-year-old Emilia Wilkin defends pitbull dogs against negative stereotypes about their behaviour

December 19, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Society section

2024 has been a pretty chaotic year for us here on Earth. In each corner of our own little societies, whether you’re reading from Asia, the Americas, Europe and beyond, we’ve each had a lot on our plate (on top of your no doubt already busy lives, of course). We’ve seen multiple contentious elections, some excellent movies, the MET Gala, the many different perspectives of Gen Z and everything in between

18-year-old Christian Yeung shines a spotlight on his favourite Society articles from the past year

December 19, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the International Affairs section

As Harbingers’ Editor-in-Chief and a former Politics Section Editor, I’ve curated a list of five standout articles from the International Affairs and Politics sections. Presented in chronological order, these pieces capture the key themes that defined our coverage in 2024

17-year-old Jefferson He shines a spotlight on his favourite articles from the past year

December 12, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Women’s Desk section

Every article published in Women’s Desk this year has left its mark, but a few stand out for their exceptional writing or compelling subject matter or worldwide relevance. As the Women’s Desk Section Editor, I’ve compiled a list of five articles that I think everyone should read, presented in chronological order

17-year-old Maria Mitko shines a spotlight on her favourite Women's Desk articles from the past year

December 12, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Culture section

Every article published in the Culture section this year has had its own spark, but a few stand out for their exceptional writing, unorthodox subject, worldwide relevance – or all three. As editor of the section, I’ve compiled a list of five articles that I think everyone should read, presented in chronological order

17-year-old Justin Sau shines a spotlight on his favourite Culture articles from the past year

December 12, 2024

Why reading books is so important in an age of digital distractions

In an age dominated by digital distractions, the act of reading becomes even more crucial. For Gen Z, embracing the habit of reading can serve as a bridge between the digital and the intellectual worlds, allowing them to harness the best of both realms

15-year-old Zirong Xu is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Society

November 29, 2024

Help me keep the voices of young Nepali journalists heard

For the past two years, I’ve coordinated Harbingers' Nepali Newsroom, working with 10 students from the Mountain Children’s Home in Dandagaun, Kathmandu. Aged between 11 and 18, these students gather twice weekly to learn journalism, alongside lessons in English, dancing and singing. Now, they need our support to keep their voices heard

17-year-old Jefferson He has set up a fundraiser to secure the future of Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom

November 29, 2024

Why Speak No Evil 2024 fails to outshine the original

Conversely, while watching Speak No Evil from 2024, I was glued to the screen due to the amount of chaos and improbability. Now, while I still believe the remake doesn’t hold a candle to the original, it allowed me to reevaluate my appreciation for the Danish film

17-year-old Maria Mitko reviews a recent American remake of a Danish psychological thriller

November 29, 2024

Why we should lose the stigma around gap years

The first time I heard about gap years, I was around six years old. My dad often shared stories of his adventures travelling the world, meeting new people and gaining experiences during his gap year

17-year-old Anna Wilkin argues that gap years bring personal growth and academic success

November 22, 2024

Beyond lemonade stands: How teens are revolutionising global business

This surge in teenage entrepreneurship is an influential change where financial self-reliance and business skills are becoming top priorities among today’s youth. This is fueling innovation and economic advancement, shaping the path for a future workforce composed of ambitious and go-getter personalities

15-year-old Arnav Maheshwari is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Economics

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 is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Women's Desk

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

Phone ban will not solve Hungary’s school problems

With Hungary’s new legislation implementing a complete ban on phones, students can no longer bring them onto campus. At the beginning of the day, we have to put them into individual lockers with the key held by the school administration. The only exemption are diabetes sufferers who need apps to moderate their blood sugar levels

15 year-old Lola Kadas critiques Hungary’s phone ban in schools and suggests alternative solutions

October 24, 2024

Moving on from the past: Abortion should be a constitutional right

Ahead of the US election, abortion rights are a crucial issue for many young women—including myself. Here's a look back at the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v Wade, the consequences so far, and where presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand on abortion

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains the controversy around abortion rights in the US

October 17, 2024

Who won the vice presidential debate?

On Tuesday, October 1, JD Vance and Tim Walz—the Republican and Democratic vice presidential candidates—faced off in their much-anticipated first and only live televised debate

17 year-old Emily Dorman assesses the debate between VP candidates JD Vance and Tim Walz

October 17, 2024

Behind the apron: Are TikTok’s ‘trad wives’ truly traditional?

The ‘trad wife’ trend is not realistic. Hannah Neeleman and Nara Smith’s lifestyles are not attainable by the average person. Ask your grandmother if her traditional marriage included rolling in the field with her freshly made sourdough or, more realistically, performing a lot of tiring manual labour to look after the family and house

14-year-old Helena Bruździak explores the social media trend and its implications for feminism

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 10, 2024

How to stay sane during the college application process

The process of applying to university has been an incredibly stressful time for me. I have questioned my decisions and abilities, and struggled with time management. Thousands of people go through this process every year

17 year-old Maria Mitko shares her experience and gives advice on applying to college

October 10, 2024

Exercise is not a cure-all: we should support mental health with compassion, not pressure

Exercise is often praised as a natural mood booster, and research shows that physical activity can improve mental well-being. But we need to approach the subject with more sensitivity, as not everyone can simply ‘get moving’

16 year-old Anna Wilkin explores the complex relationship between exercise and well-being

October 03, 2024

Gen Z’s new trend of mocking politicians is both bizarre and hilarious

People making and engaging with these videos are simply returning the same tone set by the politicians themselves. The strange rivalry and barrage of insults between the two adversaries encourages people to make fun of them in a similar way

17 year-old Cressida Anness-Lorenz looks at how the US election has sparked new political satire

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 26, 2024

Why is Trump’s running mate so unpopular?

So, how did JD Vance become so deeply unpopular? My answer is simple: he’s not likable. At every opportunity to connect with voters, he has missed the mark

17 year-old Emily Dorman explains Vance’s failure to appeal to voters in the upcoming US election

September 05, 2024

How ‘nosy’ Armenians made my trip unforgettable

Armenians take pride in being ‘nosy’ – and that’s a good thing. Let me explain why. This eagerness to engage created a welcoming atmosphere making an unknown place less daunting

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert on her contrasting experiences in Yerevan and New York City

September 04, 2024

It was painful and horrible - why my acne made me feel different from others

My struggles with acne started from the age of 11 and for years I felt different from others. My journey taught me a lot, most importantly that it is only temporary

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska shares her struggles with acne and what others can learn from her journey

September 02, 2024

Issues professional athletes face from the perspective of a young figure skater

Figure skating is my life and biggest passion, but I almost quit because of the pressures I had to deal with as a young athlete. Many people I have come across share similar feelings about the highs and lows of figure skating. But they wouldn’t give it up for the world

15 year-old Helena Ruszkowska takes us behind the scenes in the world of ice-skating competitions and the pressures young athletes face

August 29, 2024

The US presidential debate left me disappointed, not inspired

Following the presidential debate, many Americans ended the night feeling like the global laughing stock of politics. Our politicians were too busy name-calling and slandering each other to reassure any of us voters that our country has a bright future ahead

17 year-old Emily Dorman assesses the unsatisfactory Trump and Biden election debate on 27 June

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 22, 2024

The highs and lows of attending an international school in Tanzania

Attending an international school in Tanzania has opened up a world of opportunities that has changed my life for the better. But this journey has also been challenging

15 year-old Lidya Gasper shares her experience of attending a private international school in Tanzania

August 22, 2024

What a female president means for Mexico and the world

Sheinbaum’s presidency marks an important milestone in the history of Mexico. Up until this point, Mexico was a country run by men, known for its persistently high levels of violence, especially against women

17 year-old Maria Mitko explores the potential impact of Claudia Sheinbaum’s groundbreaking election win

August 15, 2024

How teens can help shape the political future of their countries

Despite the fact that you may be too young to cast your vote, you can still uplift issues that matter to you. By informing your communities, families, and friends about elections and political events dear to your heart you are already able to make a difference

15 year-old Lola Kadas shares how young people can get involved in political discourse

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 08, 2024

Should poaching and hunting be illegal?

Hunting is one of the oldest causes of animal extinction and endangerment. The problem is that prohibition could be financially disadvantageous – because many countries rely on the tourism and fashion industries, in which animals play an important part

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage from Sri Lanka examines the morality and necessity of killing animals

August 05, 2024

Being young is my superpower - I’ve learnt not to doubt myself

The next time you find yourself doubting your place among those older than you, why not ask yourself: isn't it time to embrace your unique strengths and show the world what the youngest among us can truly achieve?

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak reflects on internalised ageism

August 04, 2024

Schools should not start earlier than 9: Here is why

The idea of starting before 9 am might be justified from a traffic and energy savings perspective, but the benefits for the health and development of students far outweigh any potential disadvantages

15 year-old Olivier Stachowiak explains the correlation between early school start times and students’ well-being

August 03, 2024

Does academic pressure prevent athletic passion?

Academics has long been deemed the most important factor in our development and future. We cannot let academic pressures prevent athletic passion for any longer. How was it possible that we students who played on the sport teams were faced with great pressure to excel academically before anything else

17 year-old Elias dives into how academic pressure affects young athletic dreams

August 02, 2024

Social media and digital detoxing

A planned break from digital devices or a “digital detox”, has become more crucial for supporting our mental health and wellbeing. Unplugging from the internet will offer numerous benefits like improving our ability to concentrate and think clearly

18 year-old Katarzyna opines on the dangers of social media overconsumption

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

Against all odds: Afghan girls want to learn

The message is simple. Education for children is a fundamental right, and our gender should make no difference. Afghan girls are the strongest girls. Just let them improve and study. Allow them back into school

17 year-old Zohra shares the unwavering determination of Afghan girls to pursue their education

July 17, 2024

The ‘pink tax’ – another hidden weapon in the oppression of women

The so-called ‘pink tax’ may not be an actual tax, but it is an audacious and harmful way for businesses to make profit at the expense of women through misogynistic marketing schemes

16 year-old Camilla Savalieva explains what the ‘pink tax’ is and its consequences for women

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 10, 2024

Bronny James: nature, nurture, or nepotism?

A namesake can be positive, as it is a constant reminder of someone important to one’s parents. However, it does not always play out the way one’s parents thought it would, oftentimes being a burden to the child to live up to certain expectations

16 year-old Noah Saphier on Bronny James joining the Los Angeles Lakers

July 06, 2024

Democrats are between a rock and a hard place, but losing to Trump is not an option

There are many arguments against why Joe Biden should not run for the second term as the President of the United States, and most of them are valid. But there are millions of people, both in the US and around the world, who are terrified of the perspective of Trump returning to the White House - and young people are a significant part of this group

Teenagers of the Washington DC Newsroom explain candidate concerns ahead of the US presidential race

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

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

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 27, 2024

Academic achievements do not define people

It is important to remember that arts-oriented subjects also require discipline and hard work. Simply because they require a different skill set to that of STEM subjects does not mean they should be overlooked

16 year-old Anna Wilkin explains why good grades aren’t the only way to measure success

June 20, 2024

Poland’s LGBTQ+ policies must change to protect its youth

In the most recent Rainbow Map ranking Poland ranked last among EU members, and not for the first time. In a country that deems being queer unnatural how are young people supposed to feel safe in this environment?

17 year-old Maria Mitko decries Poland’s position as the ‘most homophobic country’ in the EU

June 20, 2024

Alcohol, emotions and swearing: Five things I’ve found surprising about Denmark

The Danish capital, Copenhagen, has gained publicity among young people as a vacation hotspot and for its unique fashion sense. But what cultural differences in Denmark might catch you off guard?

16 year-old Varvara Tkachenko shares her experience as a Ukrainian who recently moved to Copenhagen

June 20, 2024

Harrison Butker's speech feels like a scene from The Handmaid’s Tale

In a public speech full of misogynistic, homophobic and hateful comments, an NFL player has sparked widespread criticism. While free speech is a fundamental right in the US, at what point does it cross the blurry line into hate speech

14 year-old Helena Bruzdziak on a commencement by US football star and its misogynistic message

June 13, 2024

How human rights advocate Sima Samar inspired me to never give up

Sima Samar is a strong supporter and advocate for her people, and girls like me are continually inspired by her work to make our futures better. Girls can take note of these qualities, despite the restrictions they may face, and become great leaders

16 year-old Swita expresses admiration for Afghan human rights activist Sima Samar, and discusses the key attributes of a good leader

June 06, 2024

Attending a Catholic school opens a new perspective inside you

I’m an atheist who has spent four years studying at a Catholic school in the UK. That may sound like a nightmare, but believe me it has been a valuable experience

17 year-old Jefferson He reflects on his experience as an atheist in a Catholic school

June 06, 2024

Marriage equality is the one thing that will last from 14 years of Tory rule

The current election campaign proves that over the last decade, marriage equality has become such a strong part of Britain that no one dares to challenge it. This is a striking change compared to the election campaign of 2010, when only Lib Dems unequivocally supported marriage equality

17 year-old Jefferson He looks back on a key LGBTQIA+ policy as the UK prepares to vote

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

Sri Lanka’s Moragahakanda dam project is an environmental disaster

The bar for one of Sri Lanka’s largest and supposedly most conservation-oriented development projects has been set so low that it has caused more damage than progress

14 year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe weighs up the pros and cons of a crucial irrigation project

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 30, 2024

Can Gen Z use social media to learn?

While such platforms are often thought of as simply a waste of time and energy, I believe they can be used for much more than mindless scrolling through feeds – like learning

17 year-old Maria Mitko unlocks the potential of social media as an educational tool

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

To be or not to be… an international student

Being an international student, attending different schools, seeing other countries and experiencing new environments gives you a lot of opportunities. You are able to find what you like and what you are good at, improve yourself and be prepared for the future

14 year-old Anastasia Kulikova explains the advantages of studying abroad

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

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

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 29, 2024

The importance of striking a healthy balance on social media

Social media is a realm where borders blur, friendships transcend geographical barriers, and voices resound across continents. But in the vast world of online platforms, we must use these tools wisely to avoid the growing dangers it can pose

17 year-old Shanhaza and 15 year-old Mahwa warn of the dangers hidden in social media’s vast potential

March 22, 2024

Why are we resistant to traditional offices, and how can we repurpose vacant spaces?

I think my generation is so accustomed to online schooling that we can’t imagine ourselves working from an office. With both a climate and global housing crisis, we could repurpose these spaces to provide a much needed solution

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on a work-from-home culture and reusing empty offices

March 22, 2024

Ways to maintain a healthy and balance lifestyle

Taking time to focus on our habits, our lifestyle choices, and what we put into our bodies, can be difficult and sometimes confronting but taking care of yourself is important undertaking

16 year-old Swita shares her guide to living a healthier lifestyle

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

Interning amongst disenchanted workers, I realised the reality of social mobility in Singapore

With a stable political environment to attract a large share of foreign direct investments, Singapore is no doubt an economic powerhouse. Yet it withheld a more ghastly truth – a vast cityscape of inequality and an overworked population

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang examines the dreams of young Singaporeans

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 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

To end Russia’s influence over Ukraine, we must learn from the past

We cannot change history, but we can learn from the past and start acting in another way. Ukraine gained independence over 30 years ago, but Russian Imperial ambitions still seem to be present

17 year-old Mariia Sydorenko on the problems of ingrained Russian propaganda

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 23, 2024

Why disabled individuals ‘do not exist’ in Ukraine

You do not truly realise the extent of your detachment from reality until you encounter a person with a disability and notice the systemic conditioning that leads us to believe that disabilities limit individuals

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines proactive steps to inclusivity

February 16, 2024

Oligopolies on the vaccine market hindered saving lives - should Pfizer have profited?

With the UK’s ongoing Covid inquiry, in which an independent organisation is examining the British government's response to the pandemic, it is worth asking – should this essential drug have ever been for-profit?

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna examines the profit incentives driving pharmaceutical advancement

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 09, 2024

Media depicting women holds one main aim: Giving a space for women to be judged

Defining a woman starts with using words like ‘trailblazer’ and ‘independent’ and ‘controversial’. A set of words is quite a small frame to describe everything that a person could be

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil’s award-winning essay on Women’s Rights

February 09, 2024

How can banks attract young customers? Understanding Gen Z's preferences

Student debt, AI improvements, and data privacy. In order to target a Gen Z demographic, banks must listen and adapt their engagement strategies

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska investigates young people’s priorities with banking

February 02, 2024

Do dogs feel guilty? I think not - you’ve conditioned them that way

It would be nice to believe that our furry pets do share a similar behavioural conscience to us - explaining exactly why they are man’s best friend. Well, science might not be on your side

17 year-old Sofia Radysh outlines the science behind the typical ‘guilty face’

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

Shadowy, CIA-affiliated Palantir should not be trusted with NHS patients' data

Palantir Technologies has very quickly become a crucial entity in the lives of all Britons, coming into possession of sensitive UK health data. But how do you know about the company’s past?

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva on the legal and moral questions of big data entering the public sector

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

Ropes or Syringes: A Closer Look at the Death Penalty in Singapore

An ethical question on the justification of the death penalty has been debated for decades if not centuries. With a majority 73.7% in public support, I was curious to find out for myself why so many Singaporeans backed a seemingly inhumane punishment

17 year-old Nicole Jin surveys locals on the morality of crime prevention

January 19, 2024

We shouldn’t trust AI in courts - Here’s why

AI has already opened many avenues but within the legal system it was integrated far earlier than most would expect. Police data, on which these software train on, contain a long history of bias that one can’t help but question the validity of its predictions

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz on the dangers of data bias

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

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 need to break the mental health stigma in football. Here is why

Mental health among football players is overlooked, despite being equally vital as their performance on the pitch. I strongly believe it deserves equal attention and recognition

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain argues against the culture of mental health suppression in football

December 15, 2023

WHO, paying $250 to sexual assault victims in DRC, proves the world justice system is broken

More than 80 aid workers sent to handle the Ebola outbreak in the DRC have been accused of involvement in a sexual assault scandal. And in the end, those without privileges are left with so-called compensation and a traumatic memory for the rest of their lives

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko condemns World Health Organisation’s sexual assault scandal

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 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"

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 24, 2023

Motivation is helping me face daily obstacles and it can help you too

Girls like me need all the motivation they can get to stay focused and overcome hardship. I’m 16 and I’m unable to get a proper education in my home country of Afghanistan. But I will not let those limitations determine my future

16 year-old Swita on finding daily inspiration and self-help

November 24, 2023

Compared to dogs or children, women struggle in the Ukrainian army

Women are a vital part of Ukraine’s future victory but female soldiers continually face restrictions on their basic needs. Instead, women are treated as an object of entertainment rather than living, breathing, and equally capable human beings

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against the discrimination of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

November 24, 2023

How Claudia Goldin inspires me by shattering barriers in the male-dominated realm of economics

Goldin presented a previously unheard-of hypothesis arguing that access to the contraceptive pill played a vital role in accelerating the revolutionary increase in female workforce participation, doubling in size between 1960 and 1980

18-year-old Nadia Diakowska on the inspiration from this year’s Nobel Prize winner in Economics

November 10, 2023

Learning from Indigenous communities can drive sustainability amid the climate crisis

Indigenous communities make up only 6% of the global population but they conserve 80% of biodiversity. Sustainable practices and respect for the environment are built into their social doctrine which has been passed on for generations

Sanaa Pasha interviews climate activist Yusuf Baluch and Growing up Green founder Amy Campbell

November 10, 2023

Florida is in the middle of ‘Hurricane DeSantis’ but there will be a rainbow after the storm

Florida may serve as a global punchline, symbolizing a strained political atmosphere, internal divisions, and challenges to democratic values within the United States, but the state holds profound significance for the individuals who call it home

16 year-old Emily Dorman on Ron DeSantis’ triad

November 10, 2023

Unwritten Dreams. Do I stand a chance to break the generational wealth gap and live the American Dream?

Carved from my parents’ sacrifices, their hopes for a brighter future, and their resilience in the face of adversity, I was grappling with the complexities of “The American Dream” as I questioned whether it truly aligned with the narrative I was enveloped in

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala analyzes her chances to make it in 21st century United States

November 10, 2023

Dust Unto Dust. On my 50th birthday, the only sound from the Ferris wheel will be the dirge of rusty gears

Fifty years. A golden anniversary. A mere blink in the timeline. Before me looms the menacing road of another half-century, dotted with metallic towers that rise from the ground

16 year-old Justin Sau pictures the year 2057

October 27, 2023

How will the UK’s ageing population affect our wallets?

The ageing population will likely result in the decline of the UK’s active labour force. This will put greater pressure on the future working population - including today’s teenagers - to deliver the funds necessary for the public sector

17 year-old David Otegbola on the economic future of young people

October 27, 2023

Market economy and school choice improve academic outcomes, so why don’t we learn from science?

Academic variation driven by wealth and access inequalities shapes the present of today’s students. The income gap between lower and upper-class families is one of the greatest predictors of academic outcomes

17 year-old Grace Minakowski was the runner-up for the Harbinger Prize in Economics

October 27, 2023

Denying treatment because women could get pregnant? That’s a new level of toxic absurdity

Women cannot be stripped of basic services, like healthcare, because of their so-called ‘function’, and the word ‘woman’ should not be synonymous with ‘mother’

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against curbing women’s rights in the US

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

At 12, I promised myself a hysterectomy. That’s how ignorance of menstrual health tortures girls

Young girls like me will continue to suffer because periods are taboo and we are told period cramps are supposed to hurt. The pain of endometriosis is instead chalked up to female sensitivities, low pain tolerance, and the joys of womanhood

17 year-old Erin Walshaw was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

October 20, 2023

History of Australia’s offshore detention camps makes me sickened by my country

Christmas Island is a pristine pocket of land in the Indian Ocean, just below Java, where you will find crystal clear waters, beautiful stretches of white sand beaches, heavenly weather and a long history of human rights violations

15 year-old Tanya Chi essay was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Humanities

October 20, 2023

Are they ‘women politicians’ or politicians? - the challenges women still face in global governance

As a young woman with an aspiration to join the political world in the future, I couldn't believe the public impudence, the unacceptable behaviour one is signed up to tolerate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the gender bias in politics

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 06, 2023

Disappearing in the Pacific. Their islands are sinking, yet we can barely hear calls for help

In the heart of the Pacific Islands, a chorus of student voices resonates together to paint a vivid picture of hopes, concerns, and aspirations despite the nuanced, complex threat that they face

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang wins the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

September 29, 2023

My 50th birthday: A world without food

A future where real food doesn’t exist anymore may sound like quite a bleak and dystopian future. But this is far closer than we think with the 26-year timer we find ourselves on

17 year-old Christian Yeung wins the Harbinger prize in Humanities

September 22, 2023

Mass destruction of Ukrainian nature will have a huge impact on the future

The consequences of war have not only ruined lives and negatively impacted the mental health of Ukrainian civilians, but it will also result in long-term ecosphere damage

17 year-old Sofia Radysh interviews UAnimals on the environmental crisis

September 15, 2023

Ukraine’s leniency towards sexual assault is irreconcilable with our nation’s European aspirations

A recent crime in the Zakarpattya region of Ukraine has proven once again how prevalent the problem with punishment for sexual violence is in the Ukrainian legal system

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on misogyny embedded in Ukraine’s legal system

September 08, 2023

Trump administration disregard Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last words

"My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed” - the final words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to her granddaughter, has seen the former justice’s worst fear brought into reality

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the notions of progress

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 12, 2023

Universal higher education should be free. Here’s why

Education should not be privileged and only available to those that can afford it but to everyone. Access to higher education is a necessity not only for people but also for our economy to continue developing

17 year-old Jakub Hejka evaluates the wealth divide in higher education

August 12, 2023

New ethics legislation on the US Supreme Court is critical to preserving the rule of law

Increasing transparency standards, strengthening the withdrawal process, and requiring Supreme Court justices to adhere to a binding code of conduct is a modest yet essential step to tackle corruption

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the vital regulations needed

August 12, 2023

Sri Lanka’s restructure of State-Owned Enterprises may pose a threat to the safety of the country

Following the 2022 bankruptcy, the Sri Lankan government has been implementing tough reforms to improve the economy. It appears as though the government is too focused on paying off debts to acknowledge the possibility of compromising safety

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska outlines deficiencies in the government’s decision-making

August 11, 2023

This year’s A-Level students are experiencing their greatest fear

I believe that teachers play a major role in a students education. With teachers in the UK going on a series of strikes, it impacts both their GCSE and A-Level results

16 year-old Jefferson He on the unfair change in grade boundaries

August 11, 2023

Titanic sub highlights need for more ocean exploration, not less

While many set their sights on the vast expanses of the Milky Way, we ignore our own precious little blue-green marble. Over 80% of the ocean has never been explored, mapped, or even seen

16 year-old Justin Sau on the untapped potential of our seas

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 10, 2023

Are vapes truly safe alternatives to cigarettes?

As a British teenager, I feel that I am constantly exposed to flashy and colourful images of e-cigarettes which is a new way to get young people addicted to nicotine

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain gives his opinion on the UK vape “epidemic”

August 10, 2023

Sexual assault should not have a timer

The whole case is another terrifying example of how the justice system worldwide fails victims of sexual assault once again and promotes inconsequential violence, as well as gaslighting the victims into silencing their stories and experiences

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko looks at a recent sexual assault case in Italy

August 06, 2023

Russian athletes are once again showing disrespect and officials are doing nothing about it

Disrespect towards Ukrainians from Russians is an everyday occurrence everywhere in the world and this time it was present at an international sports arena

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the politics of sportsmanship

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 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

July 07, 2023

Meet five Afghan girls who dream big for their future

After the Taliban seized power in August 2021, they banned girls from receiving a high school education. Despite these hardships, they are still determined to achieve their goals

13-17 year-old students of the OXSFJ & LEARN Afghan Project share their aspirations

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

Unabomber exemplifies dangers of the far-right’s romanticisation of terrorists

On June 10, Theodore “Ted” Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, died in prison unleashing a social media storm of Unabomber fans wishing him to rest in peace, revealing to the world a harmful and dangerous personality cult

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko on Ted Kaczynski’s right-wing fandom

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 30, 2023

Do we prefer AI to shape future generations than to invest in human teachers?

While the global market, however, is leaning towards AI to shape the worldviews of our next generation over human teachers, this does not mean it is the right direction to be headed in

17 year-old Megan Lee follows the money in education

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 16, 2023

Poles have had enough! Opposition leader Donald Tusk galvanises Poland’s fight for its democracy

The liberal-democratic Civic Coalition (KO), with the former president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, at the helm, has a chance to take power in Poland. Its electoral campaign was launched with an anti-government rally against the opposition

16 year-old Stanislaw Sankowski explains why 500,000 people marched through Warsaw

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

April 21, 2023

The Economist’s surprisingly shallow attempt at cracking Gen-Z customers

The Economist’s analysis of young customers falls short of a genuine attempt to give a platform to Gen-Z. It feels like writers and editors have not taken the time to understand and embrace the complexity of the ‘new world of shopping’ they attempted to explain’

18 year-old Natasha Banga on the misaligned voice of youth

April 21, 2023

Chameleons are the most remarkable and amazing creatures. Here’s why

Chameleons are one of the most diverse and complex animals, with over 200 species and a range of adaptations

13 year-old Lidya Gaspar outlines the incredible traits of chameleons

April 07, 2023

Unchangeable US police force is responsible for countless unjustified deadly arrests

In order to stop this cycle of repeated police brutality, the system must be changed. Acts, such as the George Floyd Justice in Policing bill should be passed and encouraged

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova looks at the consequences of excessive force in the case of Tyre Nichols

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

What exactly is Justice? The flawed concept behind the death penalty in the US

Organisations such as the Innocence Project work to liberate the innocent, avoid wrongful sentences, and establish systems of justice that are fair, humane, and impartial for all. There have already been 375 cases of exoneration in the US due to new DNA testing, including 21 people serving on death row.

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the importance of re-examination of evidence

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

March 03, 2023

‘Know your DNA’ databases could fall into the wrong hands. Policymakers should regulate it

Even with all precautions employed, there is always a chance of getting hacked. Nothing indicates that ancestry DNA databases store personal data in any different place than the information about one’s DNA

18 year-old Gleb Mishin explains the cybersecurity dangers behind DNA testing

February 09, 2023

Lessons have not been learnt, international law is not stopping Russia

The notions of genocide and crimes against humanity are two essential building blocks for international law and vital parts of the efforts to protect human rights. In his 2016 book East West Street, British writer and lawyer Philippe Sands explains the origins of these notions

Aleksandra Lasek on the constraints of the international criminal law system

December 18, 2022

Italy’s direct help for Ukrainian refugees is rooted in its EU membership

A question arises: does Italy have double standards and treat people differently depending on where they come from? Or is there a reasonable explanation for the difference in attitudes towards the two groups of refugees?

17 year-old Marco Morchio on difference in Italy's approach to conflicts in Syria and Ukraine

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.

December 02, 2022

Young people will pay the price for Putin’s push to re-enact the Cold War

Restoration of the Cold War is the last thing we need in the face of the climate crisis. Now more than ever, what we need is more cooperation between countries

16 year-old Sufiya Suleimenova explores the NATO expansion and climate change concerns

October 31, 2022

Cold Hard Cash or Change Agent? Charities and the For-Profit Revenue Model

In the world of charitable giving, profit is a dirty word. Most charities rely heavily on donations as their primary source of income. Charities and businesses are divided, not only by their aims, but their revenue streams. Yet, in the bustling city of Kathmandu, I came to question the conviction of this dichotomy

Dylan Yip on incorporating business practice into charity

October 17, 2022

How war affected young Ukrainians - and what you can do about it?

I know that our stories might seem bizarre, scary, and unrelatable. But everyone can try to understand and relate. And everyone can help - even other young people, and teenagers from around the globe. Why? To support those in need

Maria Rybak shows how the war has influenced lives of young Ukrainians and how powerful world-wide support is

October 17, 2022

Volunteering at KL Plaszow Museum gave me a chance to fight the Nazi dehumanisation

To many, the concentration camp in Plaszow remains an unknown piece of history. A mere nine-person team at the KL Plaszow Museum and Memorial Site are working to change that. While I had the privilege of being the museum’s first volunteer, the KL Plaszow team hopes to recruit more as they continue working towards their opening in 2025

17 year-old Jonathan Wong on the meaning of voluntary work

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 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

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 18, 2022

Trump and Johnson: the parallels between their populism and influence

Amongst all their similarities and differences, Trump and Johnson still command a large following. This following can become so loyal, that they are often given near God-like status and threaten to be above the law

Isaac Kadas compares the former leaders current grip to power

August 09, 2022

Are young people the biggest losers of the UK Conservative race?

Truss believes in spending today and paying it back later. From our young perspective, this benefits the Boomer Generation who will have lower income tax and soon go into retirement, whilst the working population of Millennials and Gen Z will have to pay the price

19 year-old Isaac Kadas explains how the Tory leadership race harms the future of those young today

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 08, 2022

I doubt that Liz Truss will make girls’ lives better. Here’s why

If elected she has the capabilities to make significant headway in the progression of women’s rights, however based on her history of ineffectual action, it is unlikely for her to make tangible change within the UK

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse considers how Women’s rights in Britain will be harmed under Liz Truss leadership

August 05, 2022

Feminism after the girlboss: anxiety of the bimbo

Bimboism claims to be a leftist-adjacent, anti-capitalist, pro-sex work, pro-LGBTQ feminist movement which attracts significant controversy on TikTok

Sophie Elliott explains ‘bimbo Tok’ in the context of modern feminism

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 09, 2022

War in Ukraine from the inside

My life, just like the life of other Ukrainians, has been divided into “before” and “after”. Before the 24th of February, I couldn't believe that in the twenty-first century people would be capable of starting an actual war

16 year-old Diana Kuksova reveals how it is to live as a teenager during war

July 05, 2022

It is teenage girls who will be affected the most by abortion bans in the US

The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case, which removed the right for abortion in the US was done by a group which is 80 percent male, 80 percent white and 100 percent in their 50s or older. The societal group which is going to be affected by the change, is the complete opposite.

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the implications of overturning Roe vs Wade

April 05, 2022

Orbán’s comfortable win depicts how Hungary went further East than anyone in the West hoped

Had Orbán lost, there would have been global ramifications - but the same could be said after his victory. Despite recent defeats and being on the back foot, global populism is still alive and has a proven stronghold in Hungary, where one of its principal flagbearers is entrenched. Orbán’s victory shows that if run effectively enough, autocratic governments are very difficult to be unseated.

Isaac Kadas on Hungary’s eastbound journey

April 03, 2022

There is a global angle to the election in Hungary

Hungary is a nation less than 10 million strong, yet today’s election could unlock the global battle against nationalist populism.

Isaac Kadas explains the battle for populists' stronghold

March 30, 2022

In Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I cannot help but see my two sister-nations at war

In Kazakhstan, like in any other former Soviet republic, there is a strong feeling that the Ukrainian struggle against Russia is going to define our fate as well, no matter which way it goes

Ilya Kan on the ripples Putin’s war sent across the former Soviet Union

November 26, 2021

The @feminist Instagram account took femvertising to the next level

When I look for activism content, I don’t wish to be discreetly tricked into buying a t-shirt, no matter how sustainable it is or what share of the profit goes to good causes.

Eva Smolokovskaya questions the ethics of the @feminist, a social media account with 6.4 million followers

August 24, 2021

For equality’s sake, Paralympics and Olympics should be united

Although it is hard to imagine, there was also a time when women were not included in the Olympics - yet, in 2021 we do not hold separate games for male and female athletes.

Jinn Ong argues for one Games for all athletes

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