Have You Ever Had A Dream?...

Have you ever had a dream? A dream to of doing something positive in our world, a dream that would bring truth to teenagers struggling to dispel the many myths created by today’s media. Myths of what it means to be popular, successful, beautiful, thin…

I had this dream. It started with the love of media and film production. But the dream was bigger than just being a producer or director. I wanted to make a statement, I wanted to help people understand the truth and send positive message. My target, same as the media: teens. At the time of my dream, I was working as a volunteer behind the scenes at Rogers TV Mississauga. It was apparent to me, with all the variety of shows offered there was not one specific to teenagers. Thus, my dream began...

Don’t you love the shows that require your participation for it to succeed? Like voting for the winner on “So You Think You Can Dance” or “Canadian Idol”. You feel a sense of importance, you are involved in that show since you’ve created the outcome and have been asked to express your opinion. I began to envision a television talk show where teens wouldn’t just influence someone else life, but their own as well. These shows would have experts that would discuss the facts of current teen issues and deconstruct the media’s false messages.

Fast forward to May 2011, where I am currently co-host and co-community producer of a new live show on Roger’s TV called “Teen Talk”.

The first four shows had discussions around teen relationships, use of alcohol and marijuana, worry and anxiety and healthy eating. With the help of the teen input on the internet and through live calls the experts discussed myth’s in todays media. Since the show is live, teen viewers call in with their own questions or experiences towards that weeks topic shaping the show. As well, the week prior to each show teens can chat, share experiences and ask questions (via Facebook) that will be brought up on air. Now’s your chance to get involved in my dream, or start your own - you run the show! Call in, ask questions, give in your personal stories, let your fellow teens know the truth and how you feel! All teens are also invited to contribute to the topic of future shows. The show gives you a chance to benefit yourself. While teenaged viewers negotiate different meanings for each topic, this show drives to undo what the media has done by letting their audience know the truth and undoing the harmful lies. Trends blaze through our society like raging fire, fulfilling everyone’s urge to fit in. Products are bought and actions are taken usually because of the rage or fad. We have the chance to drive this in a positive direction. Let the dreams begin!