Hey guys!

Welcome to the third interview of @thisisnotthedariashow. Thank you so much for landing yourself here, honestly, you guys actually listening and supporting the podcast, which has basically become my little baby now lowkey ;) means so much and from the bottom of my heart I thank you :))

I am beyond excited to introduce to a big BNOC of UCL (Big Name On Campus ;), she’s an absolute GIRL BOSS, one of the most insightful, intelligent and ambitious young women I know. Please let me introduce you to my friend ….. LAURA!!

Laura Ionescu (@laurraionescu ;) has just finished her first year at University College London studying Politics & International Relations and has strong political opinions and visions regarding both her homeland, Romania, and the wider global world.

During this first part of our super educational and insightful conversation, we firstly dive right into the Ukrainian and Russian war. We discuss how the politics and consequences of the conflict not only affect Ukrainian and Russian domestic politics & societies but also wider Europe, particularly for those ex Soviet satellite states like Romania. We also look into how Ukrainian and Eastern Europeans are now regarded by politics, media and society and how that compares to their presentation during the Brexit campaign.

This conversation consequently leads on the relationship between politics and media and why certain conflicts or issues are broadcasted, publicised or are actively spoken about and while others remain silenced. We also discuss how our generation has become almost obsessed with meaningless social media activism, "Slackitvism",  where in some cases, users may repost an article having not even read beyond the headline themselves!

I honestly learnt so much talking with Laura. She exemplifies a remarkable young woman of our generation. Strong and committed to her values and views but actively seeks to hear other perspectives to broaden her full understanding of an issue. Can't wait for you to take a listen to Part 2 ;))