Big Boys Should Cry: Redefining Gender Roles

With the number of male suicides, reports of domestic violence, and sexual assaults against men worldwide on the rise, it is believed that a large number of cases are still going unreported. For many, reporting these types of crimes are often seen as a weakness or a source of shame, creating a cycle in which those committing the crimes can carry on offending without any consequences. Boys and men are taught what it means to be a man from a young age, but not that bad things sometimes happen. Things that are out of their control and, most importantly, are not their fault. Is it now time that we all say big boys should cry?

From pharaohs to actresses: Important women from history

Women make up almost half of the world’s population, are bringers of life and have influenced or been the driving force behind many significant historical events. Discovered or invented life-changing science, technology and innovations for thousands of years. In 2021 and to celebrate Women’s History Month, let us look back at all of the amazing things women have achieved throughout the centuries

Adult Adoption: creating the family you need

For many young LGBTQIA+ community members, accepting who they are and coming out can be very scary. One major concern is always that their family or friends might reject or disown them after discovering the real them. Even if their families and friends accept their new identity, many more become alone and without guidance at a very young age. In the past 30 years, there has been a trend where people are delaying having children until their mid-to-late thirties. Today, with many more older parents, there is the risk that more significant numbers of people aged 30 or younger will have lost one or both parents at a young age. All of which have been attributed to increased numbers of young LGBTQIA+ individuals classified as adult orphans. A lack of support framework, guidance and loneliness at a crucial point in many people’s lives has meant some have sought out and created the family they need. Many form their chosen families from suitable people within their local community and friend groups. When creating the families we need, can those relationships become legally recognised? How viable is adult adoption? And is it legal in all countries?

LGBTQIA+ Pride: Are the youth losing hope?

It is easy to forget the impact on people in an age full of negativity, reports of world shortages, climate change, rising unemployment, yo-yo economies, pandemics and wars. All directly impact people’s quality of life and the negative effect on the mental health of people from all social, economic, and ethnic groups globally. Many older people come from generations where they remember happier types, often during periods of growth and relative prosperity. Though life was not perfect, it did not have the intensity that many younger people face today. With so much going on, are the youth of today losing hope?

I Believe in Me: becoming your own champion

Who believes in you? Knows all your strengths and weaknesses, believes that you can achieve anything you put your mind to and, through your actions, can change the world around you? I know the answer, do you?

LGBTQIA+ Representation: Are TV and films doing enough?

Over the past 50 years, there has been a slow and steady increase in the number of vocal and proud LGBTQIA+ actors and actresses. With more TV shows and films creating leading characters and increasing the number of supporting roles, the community is becoming better represented. However, how close is the entertainment industry’s representation of the community when it comes to real life?