Introducing Megan Bruton – our new youth writer

And we are proud to introduce our second new youth writer. Megan Bruton is fresh from Oldham Sixth Form College, having just found out she has a place at University – Congratulations Megan!!

I met with Megan at the Reclamation Room, social distancing and chatting over iced lattes on a very hot day. This is what she had to say….

Why have you decided to write for Saddleworth Life?

Over the past few months, I’ve come to realise just how privileged I am to live in Saddleworth: an area of such natural beauty, with plenty of open space, and sheep to talk to! Through writing for the magazine, I’d like to celebrate the natural world, and the ways, subtle and not so subtle, it may have helped us during the pandemic. The current crisis has thrown up countless new and shared thoughts and experiences, and reaching out to people in exploring these is something I also aim to do. Hopefully people may relate to my musings on present life as a young person, and enjoy some positive and contemplative content.

How has the lockdown affected your plans for this year?

  I was in my final year of A-Levels, but with my exams cancelled, I had to change focus for the year and find new opportunities to take part in online! Over lockdown, I stayed in touch with friends and family, participated in virtual workshops, and did too much baking… I’ve now received my A-Level results and will be going ahead with my gap year before studying English at the University of Oxford.

How long have you lived in Saddleworth?

 I’ve lived here my whole life – 18 years.

What do you love about Saddleworth?

I’m grateful to live in Saddleworth, primarily because it’s in the countryside. Having access to green space is liberating, and I love the amount of paths and views waiting to be discovered here. I also enjoy how well situated we are, within such short distance of a major city. It is the best of both worlds.

Who inspires you?

 I’m inspired by anyone who overcomes adversity. Various friends and family members are my biggest inspirations because of their compassion and determination in the face of different individually challenging circumstances in an uncertain world. I also recently met local activist and former refugee, Marzia Babakarkhail, who endured persecution and risked her own life in order to help others – she has now become a big inspiration to me. I’m inspired by plenty of fictional characters too, especially Ferius of the little-known but amazing Spellslinger book series, written by Sebastien DeCastell. She never fails to captivate me and propel me through life with her boldness!

Do you have a mantra or motto for life?  I’m very indecisive and can never settle on a single motto – however, I feel that it’s important to acknowledge our privileges and ‘find the glad’. It’s not something that comes naturally to me, by any means, but it’s important to be thankful. J.R.R. Tolkien wrote “Even dragons have their endings.”, which is a great image to help us remember that, with positivity, we can overcome difficulties and hold onto the prospect of better days.

Jude Gidney - Editor
Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

If you would like to share an interesting story, achievement, photo or something you just want to happily shout about please send it in an email to hello@saddleworthlife.com We'd ❤ to hear from you!!

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