Voice 21 is celebrating its 10th anniversary this issue and it’s come a long way in those ten years. Hundreds of volunteers have contributed to the magazine over its lifetime, bringing fresh ideas and talent and an abundance of energy.

By Sheridan Powell

When the magazine first started back in 1999 the only resources were one shared computer, with no internet access and only a handful of volunteers. Voice 21 has now become a stylish, glossy, award winning magazine with an army of budding contributors.

Aiming to promote positive well being and give young people in Sandwell a voice, the magazine has gone from strength to strength. Recently winning the Positive Images Award for Best Magazine produced by Young People for Young People.

The magazine offers the chance for hopeful journalists, artists and graphic designers to get their work published and develop skills along the way. Volunteers are given the opportunity to get involved in various youth projects in which they can learn skills and get a feel for real life in the world of journalism. By offering practical work experience through work shops such as Web Design and Arts Award, the magazine is equipping young people for future careers and the best part is anyone can join!

I asked senior designer Mark Lamsdale what Voice 21 represents: “Voice 21 represents the youth of Sandwell today, we choose topics which are important to them. Also showcasing young talent in the area, whether it’s bands, artists or poets.” The team is always receptive to new volunteers and welcomes the talent and experiences they bring with them. All of the magazine’s contributors have a say in what goes into the magazine, often writing articles which they’re passionate about and are personal to them.

Opportunities to go to gigs, interview bands and celebrities prove popular with the volunteers. The team have interviewed a wide variety of celebrities in the years it has been running, from hot new bands like the Saturdays to Dame Julie Walters and the stars of Hot Fuzz – Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. However, there was one celeb that got our project leader Sultan Ahmed star struck: Slumdog Millionaire’s Dev Patel. “This was my first ever celeb encounter and Dev was an absolute pleasure to meet. He was very friendly, bright and full of energy – a real star!”

Voice 21’s 10th anniversary yearbook

Current and former members tell us their experiences of Voice 21

Sultan Ahmed – Project Leader  The commitment and talent shown by the young people always amazes me. It is safe to say Voice 21 has made a difference to their lives and I’m proud to be associated with it, and I have to say Mark’s contribution throughout the years has been huge!

Mark Lamsdale – Senior Designer  I have had the pleasure of working with so many talented young people over the years. We have had so much fun producing this award winning magazine, and long may it continue. A big thank you to all our contributors, and happy ‘10th’ birthday Voice 21.

Kerry Garbett – Editor (1999-2001)  Having been part of its creation, Voice 21 will always have a special place in my heart. I can still remember the shock when Top of the Pops agreed for us to do a backstage feature, we were so cool with our wristbands mingling with the likes of Ricky Martin.

Huggy Milano – Editor (2002-2004)  I joined Voice 21 as a roving reporter, meeting the likes of Peter Andre and actor Will Smith. I then became the editor and what a fantastic opportunity that was. I’m thankful to Sultan and Mark for their guidance, it was the most valuable experience I’ve ever had.

Ravi Kumar – Editor (2004-2005)  My experience at Voice 21 helped me determine my career path, and equipped me with valuable transferable skills, for which I am thankful. I am proud of Voice 21; it truly is the voice of young, talented, ambitious people of Sandwell. Long live V21!

Bekki Harris – Editor (2005-2007)  10 years of Voice 21, Wow! I was with the mag for quite a while, and it was the best time ever! The chance to write for a local magazine and to have your friends and family see it? Priceless! If I could go back I’d definitely be writing for Voice 21 all over again!

Mandy Toor – Editor (2007-2009)  Being part of the team has left me in fits of giggles and genuinely gave me some pretty cool experiences. I’m just thankful Sandwell has this opportunity for young people as it gives a means of getting noticed and having our opinions/ideas shared.

Sheridan Powell – Current Editor (2009)  Since joining the mag during the summer of 2008, I have been part of some amazing projects and developed not only as a writer but as a person. It’s great to be part of a talented young team which gives the young people of Sandwell a voice.

Kirsty Wilkes – Writer (2000-2007)  For any writer, seeing your work in print is an amazing feeling. It was great that my efforts were appreciated, and I really enjoyed being involved. I hope Voice 21 keeps growing. It provides essential experience for anyone looking to break into journalism.

Deena Campbell – Writer (2003-2006)  I have special memories of the mag, in particular interviewing pop singers Jamelia and Marques Houston. I can definitely say Voice 21 helped me get to where I am today. Good luck to all you young writers, just go for your goals and have lots of fun along the way.

Neil Patel – Writer (2003-2009)  Who’d have thought V21 would last for ten years? And it’s still kicking like a kid throwing a temper tantrum! I’d like to say  I’ve been an integral part of the magazine, contributing interviews and meeting actors like Dev Patel (no relation). Happy Birthday Voice 21.

Charlotte Hollis – Writer (2005-2009)  From my time as a volunteer I have gained many skills and had loads of opportunities, the most enjoyable was to go down to London with other members of Voice 21 to accept a national award for ‘Best youth magazine written by young people’.

Parm Bhagidi – Marketing (2001-2002)  I had so much fun and met so many different people, it really made me feel close to the community that I lived in. I was able to be creative and contribute loads of ideas, and the more I gave the more I got back through opportunities and fun.

Matt Hood – Designer (2001-2007)  Voice 21 had a major impact on me during my time there, so I am delighted it has reached its 10th anniversary. I gained valuable experience which I have taken into my working life, I made lasting friendships and most importantly had fun!

Katie Littleford – Designer (2007)  My favourite memory was going to review Maroon 5 with Mandy. I picked her up and drove to the NEC. She complained the whole way there, “Look out”, “Oh my GOD we’re going to die!” She was a bit of a scaredy cat, but very excitable and we had a great time.

If you are aged 13-19 and would like to join Voice 21 then please get in touch.  
Tel: 0121 557 7788   Email: voice21mag@hotmail.com