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Twin City: More Than Just a House Swapping App
In a world where travel apps are a dime a dozen, Twin City stands out as a platform that goes beyond mere convenience. Launched in 2020, this UK-based house swapping app aims to build connections among global creatives while celebrating local experiences. Unlike traditional travel services that may unintentionally contribute to gentrification, Twin City offers a more thoughtful and sustainable approach.
According to Twin City’s co-founder, Jamiel Thompson, the platform is deeply rooted in the shared economy, emphasizing the responsible use of existing resources rather than encouraging practices that could drive up local housing prices. “Home swapping is different,” says Thompson. “You only have one unit of demand. You can’t just have five houses on the platform and profit from them. We’re making the most out of what people have, not incentivizing landlords to make rent higher.” This ethos positions Twin City as a community-driven alternative to conventional travel methods, allowing for richer, more authentic cultural exchanges.
The Growing Exodus: Black Britons Reconsidering Their Future in the UK
While Twin City is committed to fostering global connections, the team couldn’t ignore a growing sentiment within their own community—a desire to leave the UK. This observation led to the discovery of a concerning trend: 39% of Black Britons under 25 are considering leaving the country, and 1 in 7 people of color already have plans to do so. The reasons for this exodus are multifaceted but often revolve around economic pressures and a lack of welcoming spaces.
Thompson noticed a common refrain among his peers: “London is bad vibes.” This feeling of disillusionment has prompted many young Black Britons to look for opportunities elsewhere. “Black people, the creative class, want to leave the UK because it’s too expensive and there’s a lack of third spaces. It doesn’t feel like you’re living to live, you’re working to live,” Thompson explains. This sentiment contrasts sharply with the experiences of previous generations, who fought hard to establish themselves in the UK. The fact that so many young Black Britons are now considering leaving represents a significant shift in attitudes.
Mentally I’m Here: A Creative Response to the Black British Exodus
In response to these challenges, Twin City launched a fashion project titled “Mentally I’m Here”. This collection was born out of a desire to express the complex emotions tied to the idea of leaving one’s home country in search of better opportunities. The project highlights a concept known as “Farsickness,” described as a longing for distant places and a yearning for travel.
The centerpiece of the collection is a series of T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Mentally I’m Here” across the chest, accompanied by the names of countries that are meaningful to the Black diaspora. “We’ve been seeing all of these ‘Brazil’ shirts but we were like ‘Where’s Ghana? Where’s Trinidad? Where are all of these other Black countries that we want to represent?” Thompson shares.
These T-shirts, available in various hues, offer a sophisticated twist on the typical travel-themed merchandise, infusing it with a deeper cultural significance. The collection, backed by Polaroid, is not just a fashion statement but a powerful commentary on identity, belonging, and the desire to see Black countries receive the recognition they deserve.
Looking Ahead: Twin City's Continued Activism and Cultural Initiatives
As part of their ongoing efforts to support the Black British community, Twin City has plans for further activations surrounding the Nottingham Carnival. This annual event, a celebration of Caribbean culture and heritage, provides a fitting backdrop for the "Mentally I'm Here" initiative. The team at Twin City is dedicated to using these opportunities to raise awareness about the issues facing the Black diaspora in the UK.
In conjunction with the fashion collection, Twin City also unveiled a film that complements the “Mentally I’m Here” project. This film serves as both a promotional tool and a storytelling device, shedding light on the motivations behind the collection and the broader social context in which it was created.
Conclusion: Twin City's Role in Shaping a More Inclusive Future
Twin City is not just another travel app—it’s a platform with a mission. By addressing the challenges of gentrification and the Black British exodus, Twin City is making a meaningful impact on the communities it serves. The “Mentally I’m Here” collection is a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for social change, offering a voice to those who feel disconnected from the places they call home.
As Twin City continues to evolve, it remains committed to celebrating diversity, fostering connections, and challenging the status quo. Whether through fashion, film, or house swapping, Twin City is proving that travel can be more than just a transaction—it can be a force for good.
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