Local children from Lansdowne Primary School in Canton, Cardiff, have recently showcased their writing talents by creating a newspaper dedicated to their beloved neighbourhood. The students expressed their admiration for Canton and its surroundings, highlighting aspects such as Billy the seal, local eateries, and the diverse communities that make up Cardiff. Their articles were filled with creativity and attention to detail, covering experiences like enjoying ice cream in Victoria Park, observing Eid celebrations at home, and participating in charity fundraisers at school.
The pupils poured their hearts into crafting the newspaper, known as the Lansdowne Times, which will be distributed to 1,000 households in the area. The initiative was spearheaded by Zohaib Hussain, owner of Zero Plus Fish & Chips, who, alongside judges Ben Summer from WalesOnline and Robert Norris from food wholesaler T. Quality, evaluated the entries. Jacob Oliviera stood out with his descriptive writing and impeccable grammar, emphasising the unity and communal celebrations that define Canton. He also expressed his deep love for rugby, calling it more than a hobby but a way of life that can make a significant impact.
Stephanie Bamidele shared her family’s journey to Wales and the richness of experiences they encountered in the vibrant community. She marvelled at the diverse backgrounds and traditions present in Canton, highlighting the uniqueness each individual brings to the neighbourhood. Meera Kerai took a thought-provoking approach by addressing societal issues like the perils of technology, littering, and road accidents. She envisioned a future where technology aids daily tasks, the community is cleaner, and people actively contribute to environmental preservation.
Every participating student received a book token and a complimentary lunch at Zero Plus, while the standout winners were awarded £50 book tokens each. Hussain praised the students for their insightful articles, noting that the project aimed to nurture a sense of community pride and unity among the younger generation. The Lansdowne Times, beyond being a publication, serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local businesses, media outlets, and youth voices. The newspaper’s distribution to Canton residents and businesses aims to amplify these young voices and celebrate their perspectives on the community.
The children’s newspaper project not only showcased the talent and creativity of the students but also highlighted the sense of belonging and positivity within the Canton community. As the Lansdowne Times reaches doorsteps across the neighbourhood, it serves as a reminder of the power of youth voices and the importance of fostering a shared sense of pride and togetherness within local communities.