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Humans shine in a dark year - 30th December 2020
While we battled the pandemic this summer, we were offered a reminder of our humanity. A ballet dancer in Nigeria provided free lessons in a poor neighbourhood, which gave students future ambitions.
Olamide: “And maybe one day I will become a dance teacher too.”
A monk in Japan updated Buddhist chants during lockdown. His tracks, which mix beatboxing and chants, were a hit.
Akasaka: “If my music attracts younger people, it will be a good opportunity for them to know about the Buddhism.”
People in Doha tried out parkour when Covid-19 closed gyms. Some were instantly attracted to this form of outdoor exercise.
Chakachero: “I did my first back flip and I was like, okay, that's it.”
In India, lockdown restrictions saw people pay increased attention to mental health. Dog ownership rose sharply as people adjusted to life with fewer opportunities to socialise.
Avani Naresh: “Dog absorbs your entire stress, so they understand, you know, what you are going through.”
Street artists at a mural festival brought colour to London’s streets. They aimed to improve city life.
Lee Bofkin: “They encourage people to slow down, to have new conversations.”
Technology also brought more peace to our cities, through noise cancelling windows which target annoying noise.
Professor: “We are basically going after the low frequency noise coming from the traffic.”
Meanwhile, in Barcelona’s deserted opera house, an audience of pot plants took their seats. They enjoyed a classical concert during lockdown in the city.
Already superheroes, UK paramedics received the power of flight. They can now jet off to rescue injured hikers.
Mawson: “That can mean the difference between life and death.”
With food in short supply during the pandemic, one priest turned fish farmer to help local people.
People marked Ruth Bader Ginsberg’s death, the US Supreme Court judge who helped many groups.
Lorena Blanco: “She stands up for everyone - supported women, supported the LGBTQ community.”
The US election result put a woman in power as vice president. She achieved an ambition held by American women for centuries, who she thanked.
Kamala Harris: "Women who throughout our nation's history have paved the way for this moment tonight.”
New Zealand’s re-elected Prime Minister addressed the country after her huge victory. Her speech focused on the importance of showing determination.
Jacinda Ardern: “Now more than ever is the time to keep going.”
The wait for the end of 2020 got shorter and things looked better. In Aberdeen, Scotland, double decker buses powered by hydrogen went into use. Lovers separated by Covid-19 were getting married in the same place that John Lennon had.
Miani: “John Lennon got married with Yoko Ono here and it was like, for us.”
Environmental protection arguments showed the benefits nature brings to cities.
Mahera: “It’s only if nature thrives here, that it's good for the entire city.”
The need for socially distanced exercise led to a growth in popularity of skating, which also made new friendships.
Gigi: “Just go and skate and, and meet a whole community. That's so nice.”
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