A new magazine written by youngster and for youngsters launched in the difficult area of Tower Hamlets in late March.

Live East, the first magazine of its kind in East London, will replicate the model of its hugely well-regarded Brixton-based sister publication Live South, which has a track record with improving lives and offering opportunities to young people in South London since 2001.

The magazine will tackle issues such as diversity, cultural identity and religion and aim to reach out to many of Tower Hamet’s vulnerable young people.

Gavin Weale, Director of Live Futures, said: “Young people in East London are among the most disadvantaged in the country. Through Live East we want to engage and celebrate them, give them a voice and encourage them to tackle and debate key local issues, as well as give them the opportunity to gain valuable skills and work experience.”

Live Futures is a social enterprise that specialises in engaging and improving the lives of young people.

Rahul Verma, journalist and professional mentor for Live East said: “Live East draws people from a huge range of different backgrounds. Some are students with a serious passion for a career in the media, but many are young people who are experiencing disadvantage, struggling with school or feeling marginalised.”

Under the model, young people aged 14 to 22, many of whom have been identified by youth services as being “at-risk” or have been through the criminal justice system, receive training, mentoring, accreditation and job coaching.

The launch event featured performances from hip-hop artist Mumzy Stranger and top London grime artist Mz Bratt.
www.live-magazine.co.uk