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Name

Navtej Johal

Age

20

Born and bred

I was born in Newham, but moved to Ilford, which is also in East London, when I was still very young. I’m currently at the University of Warwick about to go into the third year of my degree and will be living near campus in Cannon Park.

Occupation

English Literature student, though I also work as a steward at the Warwick Arts Centre and as a Conference Assistant during vacation.

Aspirations

To become a sports journalist, having the opportunity to watch and write about football, tennis, etc., for a living and then eventually taking over from Manish Bhasin as presenter of Football Focus so that I can banter with Peter Schmeichel on a weekly basis.

Securing two amazing placements this summer at the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ and The Guardian, thereby getting the chance to work with two great media institutions and get some invaluable work experience.

Interesting Fact

At the age of 16 I got a place at the National Youth Theatre.

Likes

Sport. Any sport. I especially love football with a passion and support Manchester United, whilst also following my local team, Dagenham and Redbridge. I’m a big music fan; Coldplay, U2, Bloc Party and Arcade Fire are a few of my favourite bands, but Jeff Buckley is the ultimate. I also really enjoy live music, theatre and love a good film.

Dislikes

Footballers who dive, tennis players who grunt when they hit the ball, skinny jeans, vinegar.

More about me

I’m an active, easy-going guy whose always got stuff on – this summer alone I will be doing four different jobs at various times. I’m very keen on keeping fit and doing loads of sport; I’m vegetarian, teetotal, I play for 11-a-side and 5-a-side football teams, and go to the gym regularly too.

The Blast scheme is perfect for me as it combines two of my biggest interests: sport and writing. It’s a great set-up, allowing young people to pursue their interests and enhance their talents, all through the framework of the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ.