People

Frustrated by the sheer scale at which we're being lied to in our current food system, Srilakshmi argues that food giants must be more honest about what goes into their products. "From children's yoghurts to food at airports, there are advertising tricks and blatant lies everywhere you turn," says the East Midlands-based campaigner. Srilakshmi believes we need legislation to force big corporations to be more transparent: "And they should be held publicly accountable if they're found to be lying."

Passionate debater Alex is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, and has been closely involved in many Bite Back campaigns and events. "We're past the days of green smoothies: it's time to step it up a gear and present healthy food in a manner that appeals to young people," says the Youth Parliament member from Yorkshire and the Humber. "It's ridiculous that a chocolate bar is often cheaper than a piece of fruit in a supermarket: it makes it difficult to resist temptation."

A member of the Sheffield Youth Cabinet, Isabella is also a published poet. "From its environmental impact to how the industry manipulates us, there's so much wrong with the food system," says the Venezuela-born, Sheffield-based young activist. "It's easy to turn to junk food after being bombarded with ads on the bus, on our phones and on the streets. I'd like to live in a world where the food system benefits us and our planet."

Keen footballer and music lover Asher plays gospel tunes on the piano, and joined Bite Back to play a part in making real change happen. "We have no choice but to see junk food ads wherever we go," says the young activist, based in Yorkshire and the Humber, who believes there should be more healthy places for young people to eat instead of fast-food outlets on every corner. "Influential teams and players should also stop partnering with junk food companies," adds Asher.

Passionate about ending child food poverty, Edward joined Bite Back to help make good-quality food more accessible, and kick junk food out of school canteens. "Companies prey on teens, especially in more disadvantaged areas, with catchy and colourful advertisements for food that's bad for our health," says the young West Midlands-based activist. "I want to see a world where, regardless of age, socioeconomic background and area of residence, we can all access healthy, nutritious food easily."

Heavily involved in our campaign to end junk food advertising on West Midlands public transport, Amy has repped Bite Back to Birmingham City Council and her local MP – and is a pro at gathering petition signatures. "I'm bombarded by junk food ads – on my phone, on billboards, or on passing public transport," says Amy, who helped write and record a group poem against junk food with fellow Birmingham-based activists. "This shouldn't be how a young person has to start their day."

Aspiring lawyer Emily believes anyone with enough passion and motivation can become an activist for child health. A keen public speaker, this West Midlands-based campaigner sees Bite Back as a platform to fight for equality and justice. "Big businesses make money from me being misinformed," says Emily. "I've definitely got trust issues with the food system. I'm tired of vibrant cartoon characters, misleading facts, and colourful, psychologically powerful marketing. These huge corporations always find a way to bombard me."

Having loved cooking (and eating) food from a young age, Maya is excited to play a part in tackling food injustice. "Food giants target young children with deceptive and manipulative ads and products," says the Buckinghamshire-based activist. "Junk food hogs the spotlight, and profits are prioritised over children's health. And the bottom shelves – closest to babies, toddlers, and children – are flooded with foods that are high in salt, sugar, and fat, hidden behind mascots and bright, eye-catching packaging."

An avid gamer, reader and music fan, Mia joined Bite Back to be part of something bigger – and drive real change. "There's no regard for anybody who can't afford food," says the young activist from North West England. "The Government's always going on about how we're 'the future', but many of us can't even afford a snack. Portions should match the price, and there should be free school meals for everyone who needs them."

Pivotal in Bite Back's free school meals campaign – including appearing on Channel 4 News in 2022 – Sam has represented us at various events. A deputy youth MP, this dedicated activist from South East England is part of a national Government advisory group. "No matter where you go or what you do, junk food is the unhelpful tag-along that never lets go," says Sam. "Junk food giants should be called out for what they are: deceptive and unhealthy. The Government should legislate to protect honesty – our health depends on it."

Part of his local Youth Council, Ben enjoys movies and listening to audiobooks – and believes healthy food should be available at a much lower price for all. "This would make it easier for people to have a balanced diet, with a bit of junk food for a treat," says the Merseyside-based campaigner. "Fast food is cheap, and it's nice – but it promotes unhealthy eating. We need more healthy options on the menu."

Lucy finds peace from the noisy world through her headphones, blasting bangers on her way to college. She wants this peace to extend to what she sees as well as hears, “I would like to end junk food advertising, especially on public transport, as it is the main way students like me get to and from school or college and it is having a negative impact on our health.” When the Manchester-based activist isn't busy creating a better environment for the city’s young people, she's creating beauty through her crochet skills.