Leave it to Snapchat to make us stay woke.
The social media platform has always taken a proactive approach to ensure its users have access to credible information, and continues to be especially vigilant during this time of Coronavirus as well as the fight to end systemic racism. To date, more than half of the U.S. Gen Z population is watching news content on its Discover tab, as over 700 Discover Stories or Shows have been produced on COVID-19.
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The platform’s newest short-form series Frontline Heroes puts the spotlight on young local “heroes” across the country who have been making an impact during the global pandemic — including an ER doctor in New York, a laundromat owner providing free washes to essential workers, a mother of 6 helping the homeless in Skid Row, a restaurant owner delivering face shields to hospitals, a 22-year old volunteer for the Navajo-Hopi Relief Fund, and Yichi Zhang, a Maryland high school student who is currently running a “mask cartel” from her family’s garage donating masks to hospitals.
Celeb Secrets sits down (virtually) with Yichi to talk about her episode of Frontline Heroes, how her “mask cartel” makes an impact in her community, as well as being an active member of the Teens For Seniors volunteer group. Yichi also shares her experience with discrimination as an Asian American during this time.
Read the Q&A below for more.
Celeb Secrets: This is so exciting that you’re a part of Snapchat’s new series Frontline Heroes. What was your initial reaction when you were first approached with the opportunity?
Yichi Zhang: “I thought the timing couldn’t have been better. During this pandemic, it’s easy to feel insignificant and unheard, so I’m really grateful to have had the opportunity to share my story and reach others who have similar experiences to let them know they aren’t alone.”
CS: After watching the episode it looks like a lot of it was shot yourself. Was that a challenge for you?
Yichi Zhang: “Shooting was definitely not something I was familiar with before this project. Fortunately, the filming director, Christopher, was super helpful and talked me through all the steps. I did have to do multiple takes on some scenes and it took a lot of time, but it was all worth it.”
CS: Although times like these bring people more on the down side, there are some uplifting moments along the way. What’s been your favorite positive memory from all of this?
Yichi Zhang: “My favorite uplifting moments from this quarantine have been when other teens reach out and want to be involved in THS or mask collecting efforts. Even though everyone is going through a hard time, it reminds me that we are in it together and will come out with stronger bonds as a community, not to mention a better awareness of the world around us.”
CS: Can you talk to us a little more about your “mask cartel” and volunteer duties during the pandemic?
Yichi Zhang: “My family gets mask deliveries from friends, family, and strangers on a daily basis. We sort everything and put them in the garage. Then, my mom checks with the hospitals in our area and together, we drive boxes of PPEs to hospitals. Also, if individuals or businesses need masks, we label a box and leave it outside for them to pick up.”
CS: With both you and your family being so involved in the COVID-19 pandemic, what’s something you are going to take away from the entire experience?
Yichi Zhang: “Something that I will take away from this entire experience is that the little things are the big things. One simple action can brighten someone’s day, and I will remember to appreciate small wins.”
CS: For any teens looking to get involved and help frontline workers during COVID, what advice would you give them?
Yichi Zhang: “Pay attention to opportunities around you and actively reach out because more help is always welcome. Send emails, make calls, and make it happen!”
CS: What’s one thing you hope to do/accomplish after quarantine is over?
Yichi Zhang: “After quarantine is over, I hope to continue the community-network mindset and find new ways for Teens Helping Seniors to engage and bridge the inter-generational gap.”
CS: Lastly, the episode does touch on the discrimination you and your Asian-American peers have received during the pandemic. Can you talk to us about how you’ve dealt with this and maybe any tips you can provide for our readers that are going through the same thing?
Yichi Zhang: “When dealing with discrimination, remember that retribution is not the answer. If someone discriminates you, don’t be rude back. Try to approach the subject and clarify any misunderstandings, although it may be difficult, that’s the only way we can make any progress in breaking stereotypes and ending discrimination.”
You can watch the first episode of Frontline Heroes below and make sure to catch Yichi’s episode on Snapchat here.
