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February 8, 2017By Hailey Barnett '18
An opportunity he discovered on Twitter led one of VASJ's aspiring writers, Khalid Mitcham '19, to have his first article published on Affinity Magazine.
“It’s a teen magazine written for teens by teens so I decided to apply for it that night,” says Khalid.
He submitted a story that same night he learned of the magazine. He wrote his submission article that night, on the spot, rather than entering something he had already written. The site varies in topics focusing on social justice issues and subjects that Khalid has a passion for, including fashion.
His first article revolved around the sensitivity of using the terms “dreads” and “nappy” and how they have been used in derogatory ways. Motivated by the lack of articles acknowledging this issue, he felt obligated to educate the readers of Affinity Magazine. Click here to read the article, "Why You Should Be Careful With Using the Term 'Dreads,'" which already has over 500 shares.
“I want other people to know about it,” says Khalid.
He was influenced to write his article by his mother, who enjoys doing hair. She enlightened him of the different types of hairstyles, which evolved into research of their background. With over 500 views on Affinity, Khalid’s career as a journalist looks bright.
Now an official Staff Writer for the online publication, he is responsible for writing one article each week. Khalid’s next article will discuss the ways the clothing and retail industry have established gendered stereotypes.
It was at Our Lady of the Lake School, where Khalid attended prior to starting high school at VASJ, that he discovered his passion for writing. It started when he joined the Power of the Pen writing competition. This three-round, writing-prompt competition had students from all over Northeast Ohio competing. He was greatly motivated by the Power of the Pen to continue this way of self-expression.
“This competition is the sole reason as to why I am still writing to this day,” says Khalid.
Now a sophomore at Villa Angela- St. Joseph High School, Khalid is involved in the school's Ventures Literary Magazine, LIFE group, Science Olympiad, and Drama Club.
Khalid’s future in journalism is as strong as his personal beliefs for social justice. He believes that we can learn from mistakes and that as long as they are recognized, change is possible.
“We can change," Khalid says. "We can become better. We can have world peace. I do think it’s possible.”
Through his writing, he hopes to open the minds of readers and help them to live in comfort rather than fear among one another.
“I want my writing to help others and to be a sort of communication between me and that person,” says Khalid.
Within his articles, we see what he believes in, we see his compassion and intellect, and we see a writer that is going to positively influence the world.
As Khalid continues on with his dream of writing, the Viking Village will surely be there to support him.
Hailey Barnett is a junior at Villa Angela- St. Joseph High School. She is involved in the Women's Choir, National Honor Society, Catholic Students for Peace and Justice, and Peer Ministry. She has a passion for writing, public speaking, and service. After graduation, she plans on attending Harvard University.
