Conversational style program brings together teens and professionals to discuss issues facing South Carolina’s youth
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) has announced the second installment of its show, SCETV Safe Space, to highlight the role social media plays in today’s teen culture. The conversational-style program bringing together teens and professionals to discuss issues facing South Carolina’s youth will premiere on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m. on ETV-HD. Viewers can also watch the broadcast on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook. Additionally, SCETV Safe Space will re-air on ETV World on Sept. 30 at 10 p.m.
The award-winning SCETV Safe Space program will delve into the intricate relationship between teenagers and social media. Recent surveys have shown that 90 percent of teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 have used social media platforms. On average, teenagers spend nearly nine hours a day online, not including time dedicated to homework. These platforms provide unprecedented opportunities, but they can also have adverse effects on young minds. While they offer connectivity, self-expression and access to a wealth of information, they can also be a source of distraction, disrupt sleep patterns and expose young individuals to bullying and other online threats.
Entrepreneur and actor Brittney Brackett will serve as the guest host to facilitate the conversation featuring teens and professionals who each bring a unique perspective to the discussion. Author of My Safe Place a mindfulness activity book for kids, Brackett visits bookstores, churches and schools for sensory and mindfulness workshops to empower kids with affirmations. She is also a past correspondent for SCETV'S Palmetto Scene and host of the traveling South Carolina food show Backroad Bites, produced by SCETV Digital.
The panel welcomes a host of teens and knowledgeable experts, including Rep. Brandon Guffey, representing District 48 in the South Carolina House of Representatives. Rep. Guffey has dedicated himself to combating cybercrime, driven by the tragic loss of his son, Gavin, in 2022 due to sexual extortion. Joining him on the panel is Ka’Bria Drummond, a school-based mental health therapist at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health in Columbia. Additionally, Gabby Goodwin, the teenage CEO behind Confidence by Gabby Goodwin, will share insights. Goodwin boasts accolades such as the 2015 South Carolina Young Entrepreneur of the Year, the 2018 Black Enterprise Teenpreneur of the Year and the 2022 U.S. Small Business Administration Young Entrepreneur of the Year for South Carolina. Completing the panel are local business owners and students, bringing a diverse range of perspectives to the discussion.
The first installment of SCETV Safe Space was broadcast live last year and included open discussions around stigmas about mental health, rising suicide rates among youth and the additional resources needed to bring awareness to support programs. Viewers can watch a recording of the first installment of SCETV Safe Space on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or social media.
QUOTES
"Our young generation is navigating uncharted waters in the digital age, and the impact of social media on their lives is profound. As an organization dedicated to fostering safe environments for youth, we recognize the importance of addressing both the challenges and opportunities presented by social media. Our upcoming SCETV Safe Space episode is a testament to our commitment to providing valuable insights and solutions for teens and their families." –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“Being part of the SCETV Safe Space Initiative has allowed me to connect with young people and explore the challenges they encounter in today's digital world. We tackle the impact of social media head-on, discussing its benefits and pitfalls. My hope is that viewers will find inspiration and guidance in our discussions, ultimately leading to healthier and more positive online experiences for teenagers everywhere.” –SCETV Safe Space Guest Host Brittney Brackett
“Our goal is to engage, educate and empower young minds and those who care for them. The latest installment of SCETV Safe Space delves into the complex relationship between teens and social media. We aim to shed light on the issues they face while offering actionable advice to help them make the most of their online experiences.” –SCETV Safe Space Executive Producer Ricky Taylor
FAST FACTS
- The second installment of SCETV Safe Space will air on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m. on ETV-HD.
- Viewers can also watch the broadcast on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook. SCETV Safe Space will re-air on ETV World on Sept. 30 at 10 p.m.
- The episode delves into the intricate relationship between teenagers and social media.
- Social media platforms provide unprecedented opportunities, but they can also have adverse effects on young minds.
- Viewers can watch a recording of the first installment of the SCETV Safe Space Initiative on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or social media.
- For more information on the SCETV Safe Space initiative, visit scetv.org/safespace.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as Carolina Classrooms, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice and How She Rolls. In addition, SC Public Radio produces the national radio production, Chamber Music from Spoleto Festival USA.
Media Contact:
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
803-737-3337
