Last issue we introduced our readers to the DNA Mix Project, a new LONDON-BASED scheme that aims to help young fathers assert their rights and assist them getting into the media industry. Since then, we have had so many requests for more info, we had to follow it up...
Whitney Iles (Project Co-ordinator) tells RWD the ins-and-outs. This project is for young fathers in London, between 15-21 years-old - although we do have people who are older. It's a platform for them to meet others in their situation, talk about their issues and find out about their rights. They can also work on life skills. The projects are around music, film and radio, especially through Raw Music UK which is a new record label which we have started up in East London.
Now that's sorted. How did you get involved? I'm a Young Person's Key Worker and I work for In-Volve - which is one of the partnership organisations for the DNA Mix. They asked me to come along and I'm now the Project Co-ordinator.
Are you surprised at the lack of rights young fathers have? Yeah, I'm also surprised at the amount of people that look after other people's kids. Big up to them.
What would be the best outcome for people those who sign up? There are a lot of opportunities, the record label has a compilation coming out through HMV and Virgin, so that will be the first step at a career. We've also got professionals who run workshops in many fields.
When we put the last feature online, we got comments like, “I'm about 2 breed up my wifey 2nite!” What would you say to people who aren't fathers? Please don't go getting people pregnant; there are other projects that you can be a part of if you're not a young father. You can still be part of the record label and we can get other work for you. There is going to be a big taster day is September with more information, workshops and dad packs.
Dad packs? What's in these dad packs? Information on life skills and exciting news on different projects you can be a part of.
You may recognise Top Kat (23) from Fire Camp; he sits down with RWD to explain his story... I've got two boys (six and three) - I'm very much involved in their lives and I must say the dads who aren't around their kid's lives are missing out. There needs to be more positive father figures, if more and more dads aren't around, then society is just going to get worse. So that's why I got into this project, to better my position. I want to see myself as a successful artist and father of two. A role model (not only for other kids) but mine as well.
Blakey (20) is expecting his first child... I've got a little girl on the way so everything Whitney said to me was interesting. I'm very keen on the musical aspect of things as I've been creating garage and now rap music. I want to get my point across and learn more.
And finally, if there was a young man interested, what would you say to them? Blakey: I want them to know it's not just about nappy changing; you can mould someone's life.
Top Kat : When your child tells you they love you, it's the best feeling. Make them your No.1 priority .
Whitney: Give us a call and participate in one of the projects. There will be people around to support you and help you with the decisions you face. AND IT'S FREE!
To apply or find out more info email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it [subject: Young Dad]
