2019 in Review

This year has been eventful. From Trump to Brexit to the Australia election, political discussion has dominated the media landscape and has resulted in many forgettable moments. Moreover, natural disasters have been ever-present this year, such as the White Island eruption and the Australian bushfires, causing significant harm to local communities. This year has also seen the rise of white extremist views, resulting in multiple acts of terrorism such as the Christchurch massacre and the terror attacks in Sri Lanka. This year has had many events which we must learn from and ensure that they don’t happen again.

However, this year has also bought us stories of joy and hope from individuals and communities, joining together and fighting for a common goal. That is how I would like to remember 2019. Therefore, here are my top 10 moments of 2019.

10. Lil Nas X – Old Town Road

In the world of music, one song dominated the charts. It was by rising artist Lil Nas X whose release of the song Old Town Road became the longest-running No.1 song in history, occupying the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 weeks.

9. Tiger Woods Major Win

After 11 years, Tiger Woods won the 2019 Masters in Augusta. It was his 15^th major and first since 2008 after a rollercoaster last decade.

8. Avengers: Endgame

Marvel Studio’s Avengers: Endgame shattered records becoming the highest-grossing film of all time. The film concluded an iconic series which has defined this century

7. Mental Health Awareness

One joy of this year has been witnessing the rise of mental health awareness in all aspects of society. Through the work of organisations and individuals spreading the message of mental health, many more people have been able to find help, and I hope this trend can continue into 2020.

6. Eliud Kipchoge

Kenya, Eliud Kipchoge, made history on the 11^th of October by becoming the first person ever to run a sub-two-hour marathon. His comments perfectly reflected his achievement and its impact on the world – “No human is limited.”

5. The Hong Kong Protests

These protests have had many negative consequences, however; they have demonstrated the unity of the people of Hong Kong. More than a third of the entire population marched to protest a controversial extradition bill and argued for the introduction of greater democracy and an independent commission into police conduct

4. US Women’s National  Soccer Team

The soccer team inspired the United States through their excellence on the field and their unity off the field. Through their actions, they led a mainstream fight for equal pay

3. #TeamTrees Social Media Campaign

The Team Trees campaign was organised by a popular Youtuber under the name ‘MrBeast’. This campaign raised 20 million dollars, translating into the planting of 20 million trees around the world. What an incredible display of the impact of social media on our planet.

2. Jacinda Ardern’s Leadership

The New Zealand Prime Minister has been faced with two monumental tragedies this year. The Christchurch Massacre and the White Island Eruption. Through both these circumstances, her incredible leadership qualities have shone through. She has been a shining light in a year of poor global leadership.

1. Greta Thunberg and the Youth Climate Protests

7.6 million people in 185 countries joined as one to protest current climate change policies. An incredible sight and a powerful message to politicians. This was my number one moment of 2019 and a moment I think we will see again for many years to come.

I wish you all a very happy new year! And I pray that this next year may be filled with more stories of joy and hope not just globally but also for you personally!

What was your favourite moment of 2019? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below or through any of my social media platforms!