.png)
Oliver Dean is a Young Voices alumnus and has recently joined Mace Magazine as a Digital Editor.
Oliver Dean’s Impact Interview:
You've been a consistent contributor through Young Voices for several cohorts now, first in the initial program, then through Advanced Tracks. How has your writing during the Contributor Program impacted your career?
My writing and my time spent as a contributor have both significantly impacted my career. When I began at Young Voices I was inexperienced when it came to my writing, and I often found myself struggling to express a certain opinion or view. Through writing extensively, and through working with Young Voices, I have developed the skills necessary to write more effectively, and to tailor pieces to specific outlets and such.
You've written about various issues affecting the UK throughout your time in our programs. What would you say is the most underappreciated issue affecting Brits today?
Perhaps the most underappreciated issue in modern Britain is the problems that young people are facing. I mean this in a general sense, rather than a specific issue, but young people are often forgotten about when it comes to government policy. We are currently witnessing one of the most unforgiving and competitive job markets in British history, coupled with the fact that millions of young people cannot even get onto the housing ladder. To say it is a crisis would be an understatement. And yet, repeatedly, politicians do not seem to care.
Which media placement that the Young Voices content team helped you place are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my placement in the Daily Express, in the summer of 2024. The article was discussing a very important and sensitive issue, and took an angle that many people were overlooking. I would argue that to land such a prestigious placement is in itself a great thing, but to do so with such a unique angle made it far better.
What are you most excited about in your new role as a Digital Editor for Mace Magazine?
Having a specific focus on policy areas is something that I am excited about. As a contributor with Young Voices, I often found myself writing about a whole range of different issues and topics. Being able to focus on one specific area - in this case trade bodies, public affairs and such - is an exciting opportunity.
What advice would you give to young professionals looking to start a career in journalism who cares about advancing liberty?
Just write. You will notice over time that your writing begins to improve, and you will develop a style that suits you. Even if it is for a personal substack, just write about things that you care about. Improvements will not come overnight, and the only way to improve yourself is to keep working.
Support Young Voices' work in empowering rising leaders for liberty like Oliver!
