Keshia Harvey, 14, lives off Upper Street and goes to Highbury Fields School.
| I don’t like the way Islington is stereotyped. Camden is eccentric, Hackney is street; why do we have to live in the boring, posh one? |
What do you like most about Islington?
I like the multi-cultural mix. I think it's important that different cultures mix so that people they know what makes each other tick. I also like the nightlife. Walking down Upper Street at night is very interesting because that's when all the party animals come out of the woodwork. I love the fact that Islington is near everywhere else. It's a bus journey to the West End, a bicycle ride to Holloway and a short train ride to Hackney.
What do you least like about Islington?
I don't like the way that Islington is stereotyped as a white, posh borough. I know many people from different cultures and classes. We're not the only ones to be stereotyped. Camden is eccentric, Hackney is street. But why do we have to live in the boring, posh one? I also wish more parades or events, such as the Marathon, took place here. They all seem to happen in the West End. Islington is just as good.
What does Islington lack?
I think the borough lacks youth clubs. There are places where teenagers can "hang out," but there's nothing to do. There are a few places where teenagers can dance, sing and act, but they are very well hidden, extremely expensive or have a ridiculously long waiting list. If there were more youth clubs and things to do for young adults, then there would be less street crime.
Which are your favourite places?
My favourite places are Children's Express, because they listen to young people's views, build your confidence and you make friends while doing it, and I also think that Sadler's Wells is great because it's one of the few theatres in Islington that put on fantastic performances.
Where do you like to shop?
I like to shop at Chapel Market and Holloway Road because I love a good bargain. I'm really looking forward to the new shopping centre near Angel Station. It should bring some excitement to Islington and be a paradise for my fellow shoppers.
If you ran Islington, what would you do?
I would increase the number of social activities and entertainment facilities, bring down house prices and try to eliminate the posh stereotype.
How do you define Islington people?
I think that 'Islingtonites' are exciting, interesting and fun.
About the team
This story was written by Keshia Harvey, 14. It was published in the Highbury & Islington Express.
