'Chewing Gum Dreams' should make you look twice at the girl shouting on the bus and not just cuss her off from your life.

In this quote, Michaela Coel, a British actress, writer, and director, reflects on the importance of paying attention to people’s stories and experiences, especially those who might often be dismissed or overlooked. The phrase "Chewing Gum Dreams" refers to Coel’s work on the show Chewing Gum, where she portrays a young woman navigating life, love, and societal expectations. Coel encourages us to look twice at the girl who might be shouting on the bus—someone who might initially seem bothersome or insignificant—and to resist the urge to simply dismiss her or her behavior.

Coel’s message is one of empathy and understanding. She challenges the tendency to quickly judge or write off people based on their outward behavior, particularly when that behavior is loud or disruptive. Instead, she advocates for engagement—taking the time to understand the deeper reasons behind people's actions rather than hastily categorizing them as unworthy of attention. This reflects the broader themes of societal judgment and the need to appreciate the humanity of others, even when they don’t fit conventional expectations.

The origin of this quote is linked to Coel’s unique perspective as a writer and performer, particularly through her work on Chewing Gum, a series that explores issues of class, sexuality, and personal growth. In her creative work, Coel often challenges societal norms and tackles themes that are typically marginalized. Her writing encourages viewers to look beyond surface-level impressions and to examine the complexity of individual lives.

Ultimately, Coel’s quote encourages us to approach others with curiosity and compassion rather than judgment. It suggests that instead of dismissing someone based on initial appearances or behaviors, we should take a step back and seek to understand their story, realizing that everyone has experiences and struggles that shape who they are. Through this, Coel is advocating for a more inclusive and thoughtful society, one that doesn’t write off the people who may seem the most difficult to understand.