BY KAHA G.

“These Thoughts, they running through my mind, these thoughts, they taking up my time.”

“There’s no beginning, there will be no end.” 

“They’re testing me, but I won’t let them get me down.”

 “Oh My, I’ll never let them get the best of me, the rest of me.”

These are lyrics I couldn’t agree more with. Our minds are supposed to be our “friends,” but sometimes it feels like they’re working against us. We often struggle with doubts, fears, and irrational thoughts that hold us back. Feeling hopeless and believing everything it tells us. Sometimes to the point where it can reduce us to tears. The worst part is, that they never stop, they just keep on running alongside us. We desperately want to take control, but it won’t go away, it won’t leave us alone, it just won’t stop.

“Thoughts” by Empara Gwaan perfectly describes the struggles of having negative thoughts. This song about mental health and resilience is showcased in a video that transitions Empara (the singer) from a hectic urban environment to a peaceful natural one, symbolizing emotional well-being. The video highlights youth talent and mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. It was re-released as part of the PACT Urban Peace Program, which empowers underserved and at-risk youth.

A few years ago, the PACTMusic program created “Thoughts” and teamed up with PACTFilm and Director Philip Nozuka to produce this stunning music video. Its re-release coincides with Mental Health Awareness and Men’s Mental Health Month, further highlighting youth talent and the importance of addressing mental health issues.

One of my favourite quotes from this video is “Oh My, I’ll never let them get the best of me, the rest of me.” This is because when we are struggling with mental health, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and consumed by negative thoughts. This quote resonates because it reflects how determination can strengthen and help us in times of difficulty. The video starts with how someone is struggling with self-thoughts, and then the person slowly develops and shows signs of self-improvement, and I think that’s beautiful.

I would like to end off with a quote from a book I read a while back. It’s titled “You’d Be Home Now,” by Kathleen Glasglow, and it’s written from the perspective of a girl named Emory, who has a brother who’s suffering from addiction. All her life people were telling her who she was, the rich granddaughter of a mill owner, the good child, the sister of a beautiful girl at school. Then, everything takes a turn for the worse, when she and her brother are in a car accident that kills someone from school. People spend so much time telling her who she is, and I connect that with our thoughts. Sometimes our thoughts are horrible to us. We keep telling ourselves a version of us that isn’t true. We need to stop letting our negative thoughts tell us who we are, and instead invent who we are.

I’ll start you off, YOU are amazing, YOU are worthy of love, YOU are smart, YOU can get through this, and YOU are capable. See how far changing your mindset can get you? When our thoughts start acting up again, answer back, and answer with conviction in your abilities.

Finally, here is the quote from Kathleen Glasglow, “This is life. It’s basic. It’s a struggle and joy. Sometimes you have one, and not the other. The most important thing is to never give up.”

BY AMARI SUKHDEO

Miss Universe needs to step aside – because there is a new kind of beauty in town, and she’s not even real! Fanvue, an innovative AI-powered creator platform, has launched the World AI Creator Awards, the world’s first beauty pageant for AI-generated influencers. The contest began in April and has just announced its 10 semifinalists, all competing for a $20,000 prize and the chance to redefine what beauty means in the digital age.

Seren Ay is a Turkish redhead who’s not just a pretty face, but she is outlined for her pursuits in electrical work, firefighting, and even posing with velociraptors and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Then there’s Aiyana Rainbow, a Romanian DJ with vibrant, multicolored hair, and Kenza Layli, a hijab-wearing Moroccan influencer promoting everything from hygiene products to local tourism.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, these AI models share common traits: flawless skin, perfectly proportioned bodies, and engaging personalities tailored for the influencer market. This pageant is fascinating, because it mirrors real-life beauty contests and standards – minus the human flaws. Sociologist Hilary Levey Friedman points out that just like traditional pageants, where enhancements and perfection are praised, AI pageants take this to a new level by erasing imperfections altogether and taking away the small flaws that differentiate humans from AI.

Fanvue’s competition isn’t just about looks, though. Contestants are judged on their social media influence and the skill that their creators utilize AI technology. This adds a new layer to the beauty pageant besides mere appearance, it blends artistry, technical programming and strategic marketing. For instance, Seren Ay’s creators sifted through 300 AI-generated faces to find one that looked just right.

Despite the novelty, the AI beauty pageant has sparked some controversy. Critics argue it perpetuates narrow, traditional standards of beauty, often showcasing young, thin, and light-skinned models. This issue isn’t unique to AI; a recent study by The Washington Post found similar biases in AI-generated images of women. The finalists of Fanvue’s contest reflect these biases, raising questions about the future of beauty norms.

The rise of AI influencers also highlights a growing trend in the influencer market, which is expected to reach $200 billion by 2032. AI models like Aitana Lopez, who is a judge for the competition, are already making significant strides, earning their creators thousands of dollars through brand partnerships. These virtual influencers offer a cost-effective and highly customizable alternative to human influencers, appealing to brands seeking perfection without the challenges of working with real people.

As we watch this AI beauty pageant unfold, we’re clearly witnessing a cultural shift. The line between human and digital influencers is blurring, making us question what authenticity and beauty means. While AI models can pull in likes and followers, they lack the genuine human connection that real influencers provide.

The World AI Creator Awards is more than just a pageant; it’s a peek into the future of beauty and social media. As AI continues to evolve, we need to think about inclusivity and diversity in all forms of representation, whether they’re human or digital.

BY AMARI SUKHDEO

Cricket is enjoying a surge in popularity in Toronto, becoming one of the fastest-growing sports across the region. As the sport gains momentum and funding, new teams are emerging, eager to make their mark on the field. Among these is the newly founded Strike Force Cricket Club, a vibrant addition to the city’s cricket community.

Founded in December 2022, Strike Force began their journey with just two teams in the BEDCL league. As they enter their second season this summer, Strike Force boasts five teams competing in the Etobicoke District Cricket League (EDCL) and Brampton Etobicoke District Cricket League (BEDCL). With this rapid expansion, they are set to bring a fresh wave of excitement and energy to the game.

“We wanted to start a club where all cricket lovers, regardless of where they are from, are free to play the game to their highest potential. Our team seeks and welcomes players from all backgrounds as we are united by our commitment and dedication to cricket rather than being from a specific country or island” says Marlon Sukhdeo, the passionate owner and founder of Strike Force. His vision for this vibrant cricket club is already coming to life. Players from: Canada, UK, Guyana, Trinidad, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, Jamaica, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, USA, and diverse Indo and Afro-Caribbean backgrounds unite on this dynamic team, bound by their love for cricket.

Strike Force is not just another cricket club; it’s a beacon of inclusivity and diversity. The team is rapidly growing, attracting talent from all corners of the cricketing world. With aspirations to expand into various leagues and embark on international tours, Strike Force aims to provide enriching experiences that will boost the West Indian cricket community. “Juniors are our future and with more opportunities provided, they will become better cricketers,” says Marlon Sukhdeo, underscoring the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent.

Sylvester Torille, the 50-over captain and co-founder, recounts the team’s challenging first season. Despite a rocky start, the players’ determination and hard work during the off-season has transformed Strike Force into formidable contenders. The team has already exceeded expectations this season, winning more games than they lost. “The main objective for this season is to win the championship or reach as far as possible and get promoted. The only way we can achieve that is to stay united as a team and keep playing our best cricket, and I have no doubt that it will happen,” declares Torille with unwavering confidence.

Strike Force is on a journey of redemption and triumph, characterized by resilience, unity, and excellence. With a vision to break barriers and create new opportunities, Strike Force aims to become a powerhouse in the cricketing world, inspiring many. The team invites potential members from all backgrounds to join its open-minded, multinational community, striving to be the best club in Canada. By offering opportunities to students and talented individuals facing financial constraints, the club seeks to provide a supportive environment for growth. Follow @strikeforcecc2024 on Instagram to stay updated and join this vibrant community.