For younger Americans like Millennials and Generation Z, world news and events of 2020 will likely be remembered as one of the most pivotal moments in history for these generations. Between the global coronavirus pandemic and racial injustices and extreme political tension, the world has never been so utterly demoralized. And in the last year, more than ever before, the circulation and consumption of news has skyrocketed, thanks to the accessibility of TV coverage, online resources and now social media. Overwhelmed by the attention-grabbing headlines of 2020, Yasmin Tavakoli joins the political conversation after raising questions regarding relevant topics via her Instagram platform.
Despite a history working with the United Nations and studying Diplomacy for her Masters at the University of Southern California, Tavakoli’s intentions were never to become a politician. But as the headlines of 2020 worsened, her passion for politics and world issues only grew stronger. What started last March as an Instagram Live discussion and interview about the coronavirus with a doctor friend of Tavakoli’s, would later become a popularized IG Live series that she would soon call “Talks with Yasmin.” For nearly a year now, the young social advocate has continued to hold talks with prominent public figures, social justice advocates, business owners, politicians and members of the media, relevant and important topics of the time.
But what seems most intriguing about Tavakoli’s platform is how she presents balanced opinions, giving both sides of every issue a fair and just opportunity to be heard. In a society where opinions are often weighted and biased, Talks with Yasmin offers a fresh perspective on the topics of today. Tavakoli recently partnered with AllSides, a media technology company that provides balanced news, media bias ratings, and civil discourse. After working with AllSides as a brand ambassador, she’s now in talks with the company to host a weekly chat about politics, media, and current events from AllSides’ popular Instagram page.
“I’m very adamant about remaining diplomatic across all of these discussions,” Tavakoli says. “I always bring both sides of any stance to the table and I like to provide a space where people feel comfortable to voice their own opinions without being judged or misrepresented.”
With the recent news of political disarray and the new conversation surrounding censorship, Tavakoli aims to share a new and diverse perspective. And above all, her content is always verified and free of sensationalism, false news and/or hype. While lately it has been difficult to know where to turn for information and discussion, Talks with Yasmin encourages her audience to find the time to educate themselves, despite how easy it can be to follow the herd.
“Through these ongoing conversations, I urge my followers to open their minds to different perspectives,” Tavakoli says. “I like to bring forth the truth and perspective and furthermore, I hope these discussions encourage people to do their own research to become informed and aware.”
Though it’s been almost a year of her Instagram Live discussions, the headlines continue to make history, therefore giving Tavakoli the content and platform to continue her discussions online. And while social media platforms can feel overwhelming as users are seemingly constantly bombarded with information, whether true or false, Tavakoli looks forward to continuing to share informed and pertinent information through her discussions. Moreover, the social advocate has been particularly vocal about holding politicians accountable to their promises, as she urges the importance of sharing and raising relevant issues and questions. In these uncertain times, Tavakoli remains committed to giving a platform to the voices that need to be heard, all with justice and truth as the principles of every discussion she holds.
To learn more about Yasmin Tavakoli and to watch Talks with Yasmin, find her on Instagram.
