Filipino highschooler Maxine M podcast honored by New York Times
By: Io Carpiso
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Published on: July 17, 2020
Filipino high schooler Maxine M has been recognized in the New York Times Student Podcast Contest for her Modern Divergence opinions segment.
The Student Podcast Contest calls for mini-podcasts from teens around the world that focus on their thoughts and what goes on in teenagers’ minds.
From over 1,300 entries, her podcast received an Honorable Mention as a Finalist on June 25, 2020.
Her piece, “The Influencer Tango: You, Me, and a Whole Lotta Tea,” is a 5-minute discussion on influencer culture, its history, and its negative effects. Set against a backdrop of music, the segment explores topics such as body dysmorphia, with contributions from fellow youth collaborators based in Sydney and Texas.
The segment is part of a MoDiv Talk, under Modern Divergence’s podcast series, where teens from 21 different countries record episodes together to discuss modern issues through the lens of the informed youth.
Maxine shared with GoodNewsPilipinas.com the mission behind her work:
“As a Filipino, my identity has been critical in informing my actions: our countrymen’s stride for excellence never ceases to inspire me, but I fear that this leaves some people behind.
“Neurodivergence is far from new, referring to those on the autism spectrum, people struggling with incapacitating mental illness, and those with unconventional learning needs.”
A minority-led organization, Modern Divergence aims to destigmatize and advocate for neurodivergence and mental health by providing a platform for media such as articles, podcasts, and webinars, while reaching out to teens in hospitals and mental health institutions.
Maxine utilizes the platform by creating podcasts and articles, describing herself as eager “to learn, connect, and engage with the unheard” while “giving a voice to those who most need it.”
Caring for one’s mental health has been picking up in recent years, and it’s now part of medical health support for Filipino workers.
In this draining era of distress, TV host Jannelle So will be holding a Facebook Webinar concerning mental health and lifestyle tips in this “new normal.”
SEND CONGRATULATIONS in the comments below to Maxine Kirsten Magtoto for receiving recognition in The New York Times podcast contest.
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