The MetroMind Collective

In recent years, the UK has seen an explosion of underground fashion brands that have risen from the streets to major players in the global fashion scene. These brands, often launched by young creatives with a vision and a social media account, have captured the imagination of a generation hungry for something different from the mainstream fashion offerings. Names like Corteiz, Corvidae, always do what you should do, Trapstar, and Jaded London have become synonymous with the edgy, rebellious spirit of UK streetwear. Let’s delve into the emergence of these online underground UK fashion brands and explore how they’ve managed to shake up the industry. The Origins: A Grassroots Movement The rise of these underground fashion brands can be traced back to rejecting mainstream fashion’s homogeneity. For years, high-street brands dominated the fashion landscape, offering safe, commercialized versions of trends. However, for many young people, especially in urban areas, this just didn’t cut it. ...

Colourism, the preferential treatment of lighter skin tones over darker ones within the same ethnic or racial group, is an important global issue. Unlike racism, which is discrimination based on race or ethnicity, colourism operates within communities, often manifesting in subtler but equally harmful ways. Across various cultures, lighter skin is frequently associated with beauty, intelligence, and social status, while darker skin is unjustly linked to negative stereotypes. The impact of colourism is far-reaching, affecting self-esteem, economic opportunities, and social dynamics. This blog delves into the manifestations of colourism in different cultures and examines its damaging effects. Colourism in Asia: A Legacy of Colonialism and Caste In South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, colourism is deeply entrenched in society. The preference for lighter skin was reinforced by British colonial rule - the caste system traditionally placed the darker-ski...

Freedom of speech is one of the cornerstones of democratic societies, underpinning the exchange of ideas, the pursuit of truth, and the scrutiny of authority. This liberty allows individuals to express their thoughts, beliefs, and criticisms without fear of government retribution. However, recent debates suggest that this fundamental right might be under threat. Critics argue that political correctness, social media censorship, and so-called "cancel culture" are eroding our ability to speak freely. Yet, from a moral perspective, these concerns may be overstated. Rather than undermining freedom of speech, the evolving dynamics of public discourse can be seen as efforts to create a more inclusive and respectful society. Understanding Freedom of Speech Freedom of speech is the right to express one's opinions and ideas without fear of government retaliation or censorship. It is entrenched in numerous international human rights instruments, including Article 10 of the European...

  June 21st. I moved out of the University after having my last deadline a month prior. Staying at my accommodation to have my own space to relax and ease my mind afterwards was so freeing. Being able to leave the house at any time you wanted because you’re in such a convenient area, and getting a quick midnight snack because it’s a 5-minute walk away was pure bliss. The duality of education is so confusing because as a student you dread the workload and the lectures of a course you picked due to your supposed passion for it however as soon as summer hits (unless you have an internship or have been able to acquire a job) you end up missing the structure of the student days and trying to find something to fill the void inside of you. Dramatic? Maybe. Real? Yes.   Everyone is fighting the battle of job hunting on Indeed with their CVs and it is honestly demotivating, especially after bulk applying when you’re feeling desperate. You wait patiently for the company to get back to y...

Charli XCX has consistently pushed boundaries in the music industry, and her latest track, a remix of "Guess," featuring Billie Eilish, is no exception. Charli surprised us all by releasing this new with just a three-hour notice. This release extends the “BRAT” narrative of the summer, while simultaneously introducing a fresh dimension to her musical repertoire. The contemporary music industry has witnessed a significant surge in the visibility and representation of diverse voices, particularly from women who love women (wlw) within the LGBTQ+ community (see Chappel Roan, Clairo and Beabadoobee’s upcomming album). Yet this collaboration arguably serves as a cultural milestone. "Guess" explores themes of representation, empowerment, and inclusivity, adding a new dimension to Charli's already influential body of work. It truly feels like Charli has deepened her representation of wlw, and the influence that this may have on the future media is not to be understated...

  Keir Starmer's rise to the leadership of the Labour Party has been met with a mix of optimism and scepticism. As a seasoned lawyer and former Director of Public Prosecutions, Starmer brings a reputation for competence and pragmatism to the table. However, despite his seemingly strong credentials, many argue that his appointment is more about being the "lesser of two evils" rather than a beacon of genuine change. This blog post will explore why some view Starmer's leadership with caution, while also highlighting the positives he brings to the Labour Party. The Concerns 1. Lack of Charisma One of the most common criticisms of Starmer is his perceived lack of charisma. In an era where political leaders are often expected to inspire and energise their base, Starmer's reserved and meticulous style can come across as bland. Critics argue that this could be a significant disadvantage in rallying the public and creating a dynamic opposition to the Conservative governmen...

Kurdistan spans across parts of Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Turkey serving as the cultural homeland for Kurdish people (the Kurds). Despite lacking official recognition as a sovereign state, Kurdistan’s unique cultural identity and vibrant history continues to shape its present and future. The region of Kurdistan has been a crossroads of various civilizations, including the Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, each leaving an indelible mark on its cultural and historical landscape. Throughout the 20th century, Kurds faced oppression and marginalisation in each of these countries, leading to numerous uprisings and conflicts, including: the severe repression under Saddam Hussein, including the genocidal Anfal campaign in the 1980s in Northern Iraq, and the Kurdish identity and language being suppressed for decades in Turkey where the Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) emerged in the late 1970s, leading to a prolonged conflict with the Turkish state. The role of women in Kurdish society is ...