Notting Hill Carnival Deserves Respect Banana Leaf Art from St Vincent Plantation Surprise
July/August 2016 Issue 38
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Contents 8th Annual Black Doll Expo
p.3
GraceKennedy Students
p.6
Notting Hill Carnival Deserves Respect
p.7
Plantation Surprise
p.12
Caribbean News
p.14
Banana Leaf Art
p.18
Children’s Magazine
p.20
Women at the Top
p.21
50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
p.33
Cocoa Potential
p.43
Production and concept: D.T. Kalloo
Culturepulse is designed and produced by cashewmedia Ltd and published through the www.issuu.com platform Copyright 2016 Views and comments expressed by contributors are not necessary those of Culturepulse but of the author/s
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Culturepulse contributors: Nasser Khan Ansel Wong, Amos Armstrong, Soshina Stephen, Akilah Holder-Stewart, Rhianna Kalloo, Chris Boothman, David Wears, Michael LaRose, Ron Ramdin, Dr Michelle Yaa, Juanita Cox-Wesmass, Jimmy Kainja, Tessa Robinson, Malaika Crichlow, Angelique Antonio, Mas Assassin, Dorothy Scott, David Rudder, D.A-Kalloo, Allison Bajaican and Selwyn R. Cudjoe. You too can become a contributor to Culturepulse magazine, if you have flair for writing and would like to submit an article please contact us at cashewmedialtd@gmail.com or call 07738864335 for further information.
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The 8th BLACK DOLLS EXPO! Operation Sankofa: ‘I want one just like me!’, an initiative founded by Ama Gueye in 2009, will host the Eighth Black Dolls Expo on Saturday, August 13th 2016 (1:30pm – 5.30pm) at The Bernie Grant Arts Centre, Town Hall Approach Road, Tottenham Green, London N15 4RX. Tickets are available on the day - £7 for adults and £3.00 for children /young people aged 5 to 13 years; under 5’s enter FREE. All proceeds go towards promotion and research to raise the profile of Black Dolls. resources in the British commercial sector – highlighting the increasing entrepreneurial and creative talents within the African / Black Communities. In the seven years that Operation Sankofa has been organising the Black Dolls Expo, it is encouraging to note that we have attracted the attention of several talented dollmakers and collectors who are able to showcase their creations, as well as a rise in the number of Black Doll sellers! This year’s event will also feature the launch of a delightful jewellery box by ‘Nia Ballerina’ – a company set up by Sharon McBean, a concerned parent. She was inspired by her “beautiful daughter who just wanted to dance”. She had been unable to locate a musical box with a Black ballerina figurine, so she decided to create her own.
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The 8 Black Doll Expo is an informative, fun, inspirational and thought provoking event reflecting this year’s theme: ‘Why Black Dolls?’ – our topic for ‘The Big Debate’. We will have a live link-up with Samantha Knowles (New York, USA) to put questions to her about what inspired her powerful documentary film entitled, “Why Do You Have Black Dolls?” (WDYHBD). All visitors are welcome and encouraged to arrive early (we only have four hours!) to take advantage of face-painting; raffle; genuine networking; purchasing BLACK DOLLS, prints, books, cards, posters, clothing and accessories. The programme includes opportunities for both children and adults to make their own dolls, share stories about dolls plus experience other creative expressions of how Black Dolls may be used for learning.
A truly unique opportunity for family and friends to share, celebrate, and promote Black Dolls alongside a host of international Black doll creators, manufacturers, collectors and retailers. We are very excited about hosting folk from France, Nigeria, and the UK - including Poupees des Tropiques, AfroToys, Anaisarts, Dolls by VeronaC, Xambino Dolls, Family Constellation Dolls and Queens of Africa Dolls! Well-
This 2016 event upholds a true commitment to uplifting African and Caribbean cultural heritage, identity and self-image, endorsing African and Caribbean pride and boosting children's self-confidence. It is bringing critique and insight about the value and importance of culturally specific play and, learning 3
wishers – Ntombenhle Dolls (South Africa), Curiositeej: Dolls & Collectibles (USA) and ImagiNation Afrika (Senegal) endorse the event. An updated listing of all the Participants/Stallholders will be available on the Facebook page nearer the date.
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The event will be filmed and photographed for promotional purposes. Operation Sankofa: ‘I want one just like me!’ is filling the gap in the British market for the promotion of dolls that reflect African and Caribbean children back to themselves. The ‘8th Black Dolls Expo!’ provides a unique networking opportunity for parents, guardians, educators, and everyone with an interest in viewing and/or buying BLACK DOLLS!
We offer reasonable rates for short and long term advertising.
Photograph courtesy Caribdirect.com
For further information, contact:
For further information, contact: Ama Gueye – Founder Operation Sankofa Tel: 07964 403031 info@operationsankofa.com www.operationsankofa.com facebook.com/OpSankofa
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through its people, music, food and attractions.
GraceKennedy to Host Second and Third Generation Jamaican Students this summer
The main aim of the programme is to provide an opportunity for second and third generation Jamaicans to reconnect with their Jamaican heritage. In order to qualify, the applicants must never have lived in Jamaica. “Our customers in the Jamaican Diaspora have been faithful to GraceKennedy throughout the years and this programme is one way of saying that we appreciate their contribution and support,” said Don Wehby, Group CEO of GraceKennedy. “Through our Birthright programme, the children and grandchildren of these Jamaicans will get a chance to experience for themselves what they have been hearing about most of their life. What better way to do so than through this programme,” said Mr Wehby. Applications from people wishing to participate in the 2017 cohort will be accepted from September 1 to November 30, 2016. Application forms will be available online at: www.gracekennedy.com/birthright.
A United Kingdom university student will be in Jamaica this summer to participate in the 2016 GraceKennedy Jamaican Birthright Programme. Karis Edwards, a final year student at Brunel University in London, who is of Jamaican Heritage, will join Casey Daley, a Junior at Florida State University; Kimberly Ann Stephenson, who is pursuing post-graduate studies at New York University and Natasha Allen, a Senior at the University of Toronto.
For further information, please email: gkfoundation@gkco.com. Contact Info: Dionne Rhoden Corporate Communication Department GraceKennedy Limited 73 Harbour Street, Kingston, Jamaica, W. I Tel. (876) 922-3440 or (876) 809-0464
During July and early August, they will experience first-hand the birthplace of their parents or grandparents. During what promises to be a life-changing experience for the participants, they will benefit from a professional internship at GraceKennedy, giving them practical exposure to their chosen fields on weekdays, and on weekends they will get the chance to explore Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage 6
intimidated by the event then by all means, measures should be taken to eliminate or reduce such concerns and assure those on the route that their wellbeing would not be compromised.
After 50 Years, Notting Hill Carnival Deserves Some Respect
ComRes who was commissioned by MP Victoria Borwick to carry out the survey, surprisingly had nothing favourable to say about the Notting Hill Carnival according to the Evening Standard’s article. The article went on to say that ‘the benefits Carnival brings to businesses had been overstated by organisers, as just six percent reported any uplift.’ Had ComRes done their homework, they would have found that figures on the income generated by the Notting Hill Carnival was not done by the LNHCET but by independent organisations, including the Mayor of London. While financial figures may fluctuate from year to year, it does not take a chartered accountant to demonstrated the vast network of businesses and employment that carnival creates, not just for London but on a wider scale. It is important to note here that none of this income ever reaches the LNHCET.
By D. Kalloo I cannot say that I am at all surprised by the negative stories that have started to appear in the national press regarding the Notting Hill Carnival. This sort of behaviour by the press have gone on for as long as the Notting Hill carnival has existed and, I believe, I can safely say it will continue for some time yet. The latest slur against the Notting Hill Carnival emerged in the Evening Standard after a notion was put forward earlier this year by Tory MP Victoria Borwick to introduce a ticketing system for those wanting to attend the carnival, a reflection of what has happened to the New Year’s Eve celebration in London. Pippa Crerar’s article in the Evening Standard headlined ‘Notting Hill Carnival is ‘frightening and drives residents from their homes,’ poll finds.’ The article went on to say that ‘nine out of ten residents living along the route…flee their homes to escape the “frightening and intimidating “event.’ These are strong words and, for anyone reading this, it would certainly conjure up a horrific picture in their minds. However, Notting Carnival is far from “frightening and intimidating “and while I do not dispute that a small number of people may agree that the event does pose a threat to them, it is not the view of the majority. If one person feels threatened, frightened or 7
While Notting Hill Carnival is the ‘biggest street festival’ in Europe we must not forget that it takes place in the heart of a residential belt. Residents and business in one way or the other would be affected by it, this we cannot argue. However, to say that residents pack up and leave in their hundreds is a bit far-fetched. Bear in mind too, that it is the August Bank holiday and many families would have chosen this time to take their vacation coinciding with the Notting Hill Carnival and not escaping
Let us be realistic, not everyone enjoys carnival and there would always be a minority that would oppose it at all cost. But to label Notting Hill Carnival as ‘impractical’, ‘frightening and intimidating’, ‘noise’ and ‘nuisance’ is to have a total lack of understanding as to what carnival means to the thousands who create and participate in the event over the last fifty years. Carnival is the sole event anywhere in Europe that brings together people from every single ethnic background who can come together, mingle, dance run a business and have fun doing so without fear or prejudice. Carnival itself however, continues to struggle for recognition and the seal of approval from a dying Empire. After fifty years of existence, it is a bewildering thought that this cultural extravaganza that holds communities together and foster the true meaning of the term multicultural, is often brunt of the poison pens of the national press. This then provides ammunition for other negative stories to cultivate from a minority.
because of the carnival. The carnival partners work alongside each other to ensure that residents in the area feel safe in their home during the carnival. It is no fun looking out your window to see someone vomiting or urinating in your front garden. No matter how avid a carnival fan you are, you would not condone this behaviour. People’s perception to this have to change as this happens regularly every weekend of the year outside the carnival period. However, whenever this occurs it is a total lack of respect for someone’s property.
Notting Hill Carnival must also be able to stand up and defend itself when unfounded accusations are thrown in its face. There are few businesses along the carnival route that are closed for the carnival weekend and, when it’s not carnival days some of these said businesses are normally shut on a bank Holiday. Any dispute that businesses suffer due to carnival is somewhat fragmented. On a wider scale, far more business is created because of carnival including, vehicle hire, sound system hire, tents and marques, hotels, London transport, food and drinks suppliers, not to mention suppliers of costume making materials and hundreds of other miscellaneous supplies that all play a crucial role in the economics of London and its wider environs and not forgetting it plays a part in international economies too.
I am somewhat intrigued as to where ComRes found the information that ‘many officials have shied away from addressing the security challenges’ that the carnival is faced with every year. ComRes, and I gather that may stand for ‘community residents’ or something along that angle should know that security at Notting Hill 8
Carnival is not something that is swept aside lightly. It is a major event in the London calendar and the safety of those at the event is taken very seriously by those charged with policing the event. However, those and I speak here specifically of the Metropolitan police who are the agency responsible for safety and security have always tried to undermine the carnival. They do so by deploying excessive number of staff and present an intimidating presence amidst the carnival arena.
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If the MP for Kensington was serious about the Notting Hill carnival when she said: “I want everyone in the Carnival to work together to ensure this event is one everyone can enjoy.� She should have gone to the LNHCET and hold consultation with the board on how best to make the carnival better for each and everyone, including those who are not carnival enthusiast but live within the arena. This would have proved a far better approach in assisting with meeting the many challenges that the carnival is faced with year after year.
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Plantation Surprise: Old Fashioned Traditional Dark rum revealed Article courtesy ROBERT BURR
The Plantation rum team based in Cognac, France, led by master blender Alexandre Gabriel, recently revealed the results of a clandestine project. The unveiling occurred during a tasting event at the annual Tales of the Cocktail convention in New Orleans. This surreptitious collaboration with noted rum cocktail luminaries lead to the development of Plantation’s newest expression: O.F.T.D. (Old Fashioned Traditional Dark) aged rum. The new offering blends exquisite aged marques from Guyana, Jamaica and Barbados. This dark coloured over-proof rum, bottled at 69% alcohol by volume (138 proof), will be available in a one litre bottles for a suggested 12
retail price of $31.99. It’s expected to reach retail shelves in the U.S. in September 2016.
rum was circulated among an elite cadre of rum professionals. The reaction was quick and intensely successful. The rum later went into full production to acclaimed success. Plantation Old Fashioned Traditional Dark rum will appeal to serious rum enthusiasts, tiki fanatics and bartenders that understand how to incorporate rich, full-flavored, full-bodied, robust strength rums into fine cocktails.
Those collaborating with Alexandre Gabriel on the project were: David Wondrich, spirits and cocktail historian and long-time Alexandre Gabriel, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, proprietor of Latitude 29 in New Orleans, Martin Cate, proprietor of Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco, Paul McFadyen, proprietor of Trailer Happiness in London, Paul McGee, proprietor of Lost Lake in Chicago and Scotty Schuder, proprietor of Dirty Dick in Paris.
Cocktail suggestion: How about an Old Fashioned Rum Old Fashioned?
Tasting Notes Tasting notes on the label declare, “Colour: Rich Red Mahogany. Nose: Intense and very precise notes of coffee, orange, plum, jam and truffles. Taste: It bursts with caramel cream, chocolate and vanilla notes. It continues with cinnamon, raisins, nutmeg, oak and molasses with smoky accents. Final: Long and lingering, with dark chocolate, clove and caramel. Empty glass: Rich Demerara molasses notes, oak and plum.”
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The Tradition This is not the first time Plantation revealed a secret rum project at the annual Tales of the Cocktail convention in New Orleans. In 2014, a limited edition Pineapple 13
Caribbean news… The Minister announced that the government will seek to offer ‘education savings bonds’ and seek to establish a National Education Savings Fund. It is understood that the government will encourage private sector contributions to the fund for children of employees and in doing so provide tax incentives for those companies. Part of the government’s fiscal incentives are to encourage insurance companies and credit unions to invest in education savings products. In doing so, the government initiative would see a saving in the first year of $100 million leading to $200 million in the second year until they acquire their target of $500 million spending on GATE programme.
T&T Government Cuts GATE Funding The government of Trinidad and Tobago recently announced in Cabinet that they would no longer support 100% funding for Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) programme for tertiary education from 2017. Education Minister Anthony Garcia said that the changes will not affect students who are already enrolled in a programme or registered to begin a programme in 2016. The changes were anticipated when the new government took office and comes into effect from August 2016. However, any students already registered for the 2016- 17 academic year will be fully funded. Those beginning programmes for the academic year 2017-18 will be means tested according to the education minister. Students from households with an income below $10,000, will be eligible for 100% GATE funding. Households with an income above $10,000, will have to pay 25% of the course fees with the government providing 75% funding. Any income from households $20,000, and above will have to pay 50% of the fees.
Funding will only be available for accredited schools with the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago (ACTT) making final recommendations for such institutions. The Minister also said that he does not ‘foresee any increase in tuition fees right now.’ From August 2016 there will also be a loan ceiling for student loans which will be increased to $35,000, annually for students of local institutions and $75,000 for international students.
Sweeping changes means that funding for post-graduate degree programmes will only be available for programmes that are ‘in alignment with the country’s development needs’ according to Anthony Garcia. Mr Garcia however, did not outline what the country’s development needs were. Also affected by the changes will be funding for new students pursuing medical programmes at St Georges University in Grenada and funding for students over the age of 50 effective August 2016.
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Machel Montano, Bazodee
Canada issues Travel Warning
The world already knows that Trinidad and Tobago’s Machel Montano is the Soca King now the bard has taken the silver screen by storm in his debut role as Lee de Leon in the film Bazodee. The movie premiered in the US on August 5th and has gained favourable reviews.
The Canadian government has issued new travel guidelines for its citizens wishing or travelling to the Caribbean. The travel advisory recommends that those travelling to St Lucia should; “Avoid unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches, especially after dark, and avoid staying in hotels or villas in isolated areas, which may have inadequate security. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe. Avoid the districts of Marchand, Broglie, St Grass, St Leslie Land, and Wilton Yard, located off of Chausee Road, which have high rates of crime.” St Lucia has now joined Venezuela as a country where Canadians should exercise a high level of caution when travelling to these destinations. Other Caribbean countries on the list includes; the Bahamas, Belize, Haiti, Suriname, Jamaica, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
Machel Montano stars alongside Natalie Perera who plays Anita Ponchouri, the dutiful daughter of an in debt businessman who is about to marry a wealthy Londoner. A chance encounter with singer Lee De Leon turns to mutual attraction and hopes of ending the family’s debt problems seems askew when de Leon is invited to play at the Anita’s engagement party.
The advisory by the Canadian government may have a negative impact on St Lucia’s tourist industry as Canada is ‘apparently the only major source market for tourist to St Lucia.’ It comes in light too, that the US has withdrawn all assistance of law enforcement to St Lucia’s security. While crime in St Lucia has been described as moderate, the Canadian government warns that visitors should ‘expect limited medical resources, poor road conditions and unreliable public transport.’ The safety warning comes after a British newspaper report that a British doctor was attacked earlier in the year.
Machel said. “It was a humbling and eyeopening experience…it really taught me how much work goes into these things and how I could put emotion and my life story into a play and create something like that.” The film continues to play at cinemas in the US and UK fans can look forward to having the film here very soon according to Bazodee distributors.
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Call for Provocations – What Colour would you Choose? We invite ten to fifteen minute provocations from speakers in response to topics arising from What Colour Would You Choose, a project initiated by artist Tatiana de Stempel relating to skin colour, identity and race from 19th - 23rd September in London. Provocations will form part of an event to be held at The Nehru Centre, 8 South Audley Street, London on Thursday 22nd September 2016. The event will commence with the film What Colour would you Choose presented by writers Sharmila Chauhan, Dr Meeta Rani Jha and Dr Andrew de Stempel. What Colour Would you Choose film explores the issues related to the colour of people’s skin and the societal discrimination that it perpetuates across the world. Following provocations and discussion, there will then be two performances Hairography: Natural Truth by Harold Offeh which looks at fetishization of hair and particularly European hair in popular culture and Sun Shimmer Instant Tan by Lee Campbell, which relates to the artist’s twenty-year daily routine of applying fake tan to a specific area of his face in order to mask his vitiligo.
TO APPLY Please send a short statement (up to 300 words) of what you would like to speak about in your provocation and a short bio with the subject heading ‘Colour Choose’ to Dr Lee Campbelll.campbell@lboro.ac.uk by the end of August. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of the first week of September. Learn more about the project join our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/colour.choose Twitter: @ColourChoose
What Colour would you Choose? A new show that questions the relevance of skin colour London: Here is a new show that would interest the population of London. Opening on the 19 September at The Nehru Centre is the solo show of artist Tatiana de Stempel titled What Colour Would You Choose which explores the issues related to the colour of people’s skin and the societal discrimination that it perpetuates across the world. The exhibition, which is in three parts — a series of portraits in film, photography and painting — looks at the subject of skin colour and racism, which is still relevant today. The film explores topics such as race, class, education, jobs and pay. As well as the part skin colour has played in determining opportunities and choices. The photographs are of people sticking out their tongues, because whatever race you belong to everyone has the same colour tongue. The paintings are about hair and skin colour in different races. They also address some of changes made to skin colour through fairness creams, botox and surgery. Tatiana, a practicing artist for the last 20 years and a visiting tutor at Central Saint Martins for the past sixteen years, has been working on this project for the last two years. Tatiana is working with the subject of skin colour and shadism, which has been internalised in countries like the US, India, Pakistan and the Caribbean where there is a thriving market for fairness creams because even within the darker-skinned community there is a prejudice from the past. The origins of colourism are widely believed to come from the pigmentocracy of slavery. Tatiana says her project is an ongoing enquiry into what people think about their skin colour; whether they are happy in their own skin; about the discrimination that has gone on in the past because of the colour of people's skin; and how they see the future. If given a choice, What Colour Would They Choose? 17
Nzimbu Dingane Browne Celebrated ArtistThe Recycling of Banana Waste Material as Art. CLAIRE SHEPHERD the name ‘Nzimbu’ was for him a breaking away from his ‘slave’ name to embrace his newly found ‘African’ heritage which he has incorporated into his works throughout the years.
Of all the many artists and crafts people in St. Vincent & the Grenadines at this point Nzimbu Dingane Browne a celebrated and self-trained visual and performing artist specialising in banana leaf art who was born in Sion Hill, SVG in 1955 stands head and shoulders among them.
‘Banana leaf artwork has been constant in African art for centuries. Native to Kenya, banana leaf art is composed of tiny slices of banana leaves that are cut and pasted or woven together. The banana leaves are sometimes dyed to create a more dimensional or realistic effect. You can also find banana leaf sculptures which are made by weaving together thin slices of the banana leaves, forming and pasting them together to create a completely new style of art. This is a very time-consuming process and is very hard to accomplish without flaws or breaking the sculpture. When the artwork is finished it becomes a gorgeous focal point that has become extremely popular in the last few years.’ (Africa imports).
Nizimbu’s works reflect his demeanour as well as his history and heritage and, that of his homeland - where banana growing and export was once the main resource of the nation. Born during the colonial years he witnessed the flourishing 'Black Power' movements influencing America, Britain and the Caribbean islands - a movement which swept many impassioned young people before it in waves of new political energy and outpourings as well as creativity. Even
Nzimbu’s work, a form of recycling of banana waste material as art - using dried banana leaves and fibres of different varieties of the plant including plantains, grindy and silk figs (banana) reflect the 18
different textures, shades and patterns of each and also the soil and condition in which the plants are grown in St. Vincent & the Grenadines is unusual as it inspiring. Nzimbu uses the natural different colours of the banana leaf to create the different colour elements. ‘Leaving the banana leaf to dry, the pigment of the leaf changes and at certain stages the artist then cure the leaf so that it will then remain at that colour, giving the artist the different colours needed to create this wonderful Banana leaf art picture’ which reflects everyday life of SVG as well as festive occasions and national holidays.
of calypso groups. And calypsonians as we know are ‘griots’ in their communities. They touch upon and bring to the public’s attention those things which government would prefer hidden. Nzimbu’s mentor was 'Ras Bandy' Payne who initiated the banana leaf art in St. Vincent influencing a number of people including Nzimbu who first saw Payne's work in an exhibition and was hooked. Payne showed Nzimbu the basic techniques and from that point it was up to him to put his own individual stamp on his creations which come in a variety of sizes and themes. Nzimbu’s outlet in Kingstown under the arches of a building is one of the most popular places for tourists visiting the island who stop by to have conversations with him on his art - including his unique ‘tie-dye’ T-shirts and shirts, as well as his drums which he makes from scratch and which are much sort after.
Artists in general often find themselves in positions to observe what is going on in the community around them and in the society at large - the ‘eye’ gives them precious insights into what are often hidden from the population at large making the ‘artist’ a watchperson and ‘translator’ of and for the culture in general. Telling or showing us what is being ignored, overlooked or side-lined. As both a visual and performing artist Nzimbu has the ability to remain in his place as separate and apart from and yet central to what is going on in the island. Nzimbu is Director of ‘Naked Roots’ drumming group and play with a number
Photos courtesy Claire Shepherd©
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children to read.” Research has shown that reading print books and magazine facilitate
Children’s Magazine Still a Hit in Print
quality time between parent and child and is often enjoyed by both. According to Poplak “almost three quarters of children up to the age of seventeen prefer reading in print.”
D.Kalloo I am a traditionalist by virtue so, it is no wonder that I am always defending print media and its importance in our daily lives. Some may view this as a bit of a conundrum since I publish on a digital platform. Nevertheless, it brings me to an area of print media that has somehow been over looked – children’s magazine.
Pre-school magazines are still popular despite the onslaught of the digital age and gaming available. Publications such as CBeebies, Disney and Me, Doc McStuffins, Pepa Pig, Thomas Express and Something Special having a combined total monthly sales figure of 250,374 copies. These are pretty healthy figures given that digital media is gaining key ground in the publishing market. Of the 422 magazines surveyed in 2015, it was recorded that there was just a 4% loss of circulation while sixty magazines saw circulation growth in 2015.
Believe it or not, the children’s magazine market in the UK is worth a staggering £140m a year while children’s book sales are £358m. One of the leading UK publishers of children’s magazine is the Danish company Egmont. Managing Director for Egmont Cally Poplak says her company sell more than a ‘million magazines and a million books each month’ with titles such as; Thomas and Friends, Winnie-the-Pooh, Bob the Builder and We Love Pop.
So what is making children’s magazine still popular in the digital age? Maybe, according to one publisher, it’s the fact that most children’s magazine features a toy mounted to the masthead or some hands-on product that engages children. According to Poplak; “Magazines are seen as reading by stealth. They’re fun, and often the kids don’t even notice they’re reading. Print magazines are seen as treats with benefits. Fun for the child, educationally sound and rewarding to share.”
The appreciation for the children’s publishing sector has been enhanced and so is its fortunes. Most publications are aimed at children from babies to teens. Cally Poplak said. “All we do is children, and we all get a kick out of aspiring
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More Woman Power One of the major barriers identified by the Women’s Business Council is flexible working hours, parental leave and of course, the gender pay gap. Many of the UK’s corporate big names such as Vodafone, GSK, Barclays and BT have lent their support to the WBC in the business-led government backed initiative for women and equality. Snowball said “the WBC is intending to accelerate change by filling the pipeline with women and removing obstacles.” May the UK can catch up with its Scandinavian neighbours who currently top the tables with narrowing the gender gap when it comes to women at the top.
Is the tide finally changing for women in the City? Maybe so, with a new woman Prime Minister at the helm and the possibility of Hillary Clinton being elected president in the US, it may just be the time when the tide has turned for women. Female representation on the FTSE100 have seen a sharp rise in the last year, almost a 13 per cent rise to 26 percent. The new head of the Women’s Business Council, Cilla Snowball CBE said “there is a widespread recognition that harnessing the skills of women benefits business and the UK economy.” However, despite the sharp increase in women representation, there is still only 10 per cent of executive post held by women on the FTSE. In a study undertaken by Cranfield University, Queen Mary University London and City University London found that there has been an overall increase in the percentage of women FTSE boards since 2015. The government’s initiative to have an increase of 33 per cent of women executives on board seats at the 350 FTSE companies in ten years.
Photo courtesy www.diversitygroup.co.uk
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consciously problematising ideas of male identity through dress or deportment that is arresting, provocative, louche, camp and gloriously assertive. The exhibition is curated by Ekow Eshun and features works from the Larry Dunstan Archive, Liz Johnson Artur, Samuel Fosso, Hassan Hajjaj , Colin Jones, Isaac Julien, Kristin-Lee Moolman, Jeffrey Henson Scales and Malick Sidibé.
MADE YOU LOOK Dandyism and Black Masculinity 15 Jul - 25 Sep 2016
From studio portraiture to street photography, this exhibition brings together a group of geographically and historically diverse photographers whose imagery explores black masculinity as performance, as play, as invention - in particular through the adoption of a dandy-esque persona. In the early 21st century, black men are among the most influential trendsetters in fashion, music and global style culture. Yet high visibility for black men is matched by high vulnerability - as illustrated by disproportionate rates of arrest and incarceration for black men in the UK and USA.
ADMISSION TO EXHIBITIONS Free entry before 12.00 daily Exhibition Day Pass £3 (£2.50 Concession) Advance Booking Online £2.50 (£2.00 Concession)
Made You Look explores dandyism as radical personal politics, a willed flamboyance that flies in the face of conventional constructions of the black masculine. It proposes that the black ‘dandy’, with his extravagant emphasis on dress foregrounds a hyper-visible identity which counters the heighted vulnerability, the result of a charged history of objectification. In the context of this exhibition, dandyism isn’t simply about sharp dressing but rather, 23
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TT MUDDERS with TEARS MAS Sunday 28th August Notting Hill Carnival TT Mudders band, established in 1995, is the largest and most exciting ‘mud mas’ collective in the carnival movement in Europe. Mudders revellers represent a very diverse group of people from England, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, France, Trinidad, Barbados, Guyana, Dominica, St Lucia, Grenada, and Jamaica to name a few. Notting Hill Carnival will see Mudders teaming up with Tears Mas for the third consecutive year! Thus, Soca Music is guaranteed to keep you grooving along the carnival route with a selection of beverages and food to maintain the spirit of Mas. Mud made from the finest natural ingredients and the company of MUDDERS.
Cost: £40.00 To Register, please visit TT MUDDERS Facebook page! www.facebook.com/TTMudders
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Notting Hill Carnival Launch 2016 For 2016, Notting Hill Carnival celebrates the third instalment of its 50th anniversary extravaganza. This year marks a major milestone in the carnival’s existence, surviving not just racial prejudices and discrimination in the early days but also the threat from the British establishment to have the event corralled into a park and, even coming close to having the carnival disbanded altogether and confined to the history books. Through all of this it has survived to become one of the biggest street carnival anywhere in Europe.
Gabriel, Dexter Khan, Sister Monica Twang, Ansel Wong, DJ Smokey Joe and Sonny Blacks to name a few. Performances by Desire, Triniboi Joocie, G String, Helena B, Giselle, King Socrates and Alexander D Great entertained the guests to some fine Soca and calypso music. Muraldo DC and Little Nutmeg performed dance numbers that delighted the audience. A solo performance by Carol Muraldo dramatized through the spoken word was spectacular. Costumes displayed and presented at the launch was courtesy, Elimu Mas Band, Soca Massive Sailors, Ebony Mas and Yaa Mas. Steel band music was with the compliments of Ebony. The spectacular evening and vibrant display sent a clear message to all the doubters that Notting Hill Carnival 2016 is here and, ready for the road.
2016 was launched in grand style at the epicentre of the carnival arena, in Acklam Road. Here the five arenas of carnival came together under the artistic directorship of Debra De Gazon who showed once again the ever evolving culture of carnival, capable of reinventing itself each year. The event was a collaboration of the LNHCET and the West Way Trust and attended by the Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea. Pan, calypso, soca and mas consumed Portobello Village as the rhythm of carnival took over, it was a glimpse of what carnival has to offer and the harmony of community spirit prevailed. Among the guest were pioneers of the carnival including the first ever carnival queen, Elmer Betancourt. To be in the presence of such people was truly memorable and an honour. Other carnival greats at the launch were Alison Williams, Sterling Betancourt, Leslie Palmer, Carl and Lyn 26
GRACE FOODS UK TO HOST FUN-FILLED EXTRAVAGANZA Of CARIBBEAN FOOD, DRINK, FASHION AND MUSIC The countdown is on to a feast of Caribbean food, drink, fashion and music at Windrush Square, Brixton, on August 26th and 27th (11.00am until 7.00pm). Visitors to the two-day Caribbean Food Week Festival will enjoy a fun-filled mix of cookery demonstrations, Caribbean street food stalls and vendors, live music and an authentic Caribbean market. Two of the UK’s best known Caribbean chefs, Hasan Defour and Brixton-based Solomon Smith, will each be conducting 5 live cookery demonstrations and joining visitors afterwards to share handy hints about how to make great-tasting Caribbean food at home. And one lucky person will win a seven night holiday for two in St Lucia (including flights/transfers etc.) courtesy of a free prize draw by one of the festival exhibitors, SN Travel. Visitors will also be able to enjoy delicious food provided by seven Caribbean cuisine specialists, discover the delights of holidaying in the Caribbean, unearth some of the Caribbean’s finest writers and those with an eye for Caribbean fashion won’t be disappointed either. And to add even more Caribbean sunshine, authentic steel pan musicians will be on site to provide a true Caribbean soundtrack to the two-day festival. “We’re looking forward to a fantastic event. As the UK’s No.1 name in Caribbean food and drink, we want as many people as possible to join us and enjoy the true taste of the Caribbean,” says event organiser Nyree Chambers, Head of Marketing at Grace Foods UK. “The event has something for everyone. Admission is free, we’re giving away money-off, in-store coupons for Grace/Dunn’s River products and, quite simply, we’re inviting people to come along and have a great time!” Please see the attached sheet for a full list of exhibitors. Facebook: CaribbeanFoodWeek / Twitter: @CaribbeanFoodWk / #CFW2016
For further information please contact Claire Murgatroyd, Martin Jackson or Alyssa James on 01772 422 442 or email claire@mtjpr.co.uk 27
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started making mas with us for Cocoyea when we were in a small room in Ledbury Road with no heating.” His designs for Cocoyea won them the Queen of Carnival in 1985 with Destroying Angels. Arthur took his craft and designs to Trinidad and worked alongside Peter Minshall who himself had costumes at Notting Hill Carnival. Arthur returned to London where he continued designing and making carnival costumes for Ebony, Mangrove and Cocoyea before finally committing himself with Mangrove.
Farewell Arthur Peters
Arthur Peters was a dedicated and respected mas maker in Notting Hill Carnival and crafted his art with great diligence and many people in the carnival fraternity in London believed that Arthur should have remained with Peter Minshall in Trinidad. Returning to London, he designed and made several winning costumes including seven King costumes for Ebony, six of which won them the King competition. Raa Hendricks, a veteran carnivalist of 40 years said. “Arthur Peters was one of the iconic figures in the carnival experience in London and, knowing he brought all this talent from back home, it is one of the ways our Caribbean homelands have exported their talents.” Arthur’s skills and talent inspired and guided several mas makers and designers in London, most notable of those is Carl Gabriel.
Arthur Peters was laid to rest at the Old Paddington Cemetery on the 11th of August 2016 after a farewell service at All Saints Church, London. Many of those who knew Arthur Peters described him as a warm, caring and more importantly, a genuine person and, a man with extraordinary carnival costume skillsa master wire bender.
At the grave side, Winston Finlay kept his promise to Arthur and played sombrely on his tenor pan to bid farewell to one of Trinidad and Tobago’s gifted sons in the Diaspora and, a man who carved his name into the history books of the Notting Hill Carnival. Carl Gabriel, a protégé of Arthur Peters produced a costume piece in his honour and danced for Arthur on his final journey.
Dexter Khan from Cocoyea Mas Band reflecting on Arthur said. “Arthur Peters was one of our great, great wire-benders, which is the art-form from Trinidad and Tobago.” It was with Cocoyea that Arthur started creating costumes in London. According to Arnim Boucaud, “Arthur 29
True Carnival Pioneers Depart Bikini trend. Jean Bernard started her carnival band, Pioneers And Their Offsprings (PATO), she was bitten by the carnival bug on a trip to London from the Midlands more than 30 years ago. She once said. “I am the head, the watchman, the fighter, the gunlady” in a newspaper interview. Jean was literally what she said, she was the matriarch of PATO and though curtailed by disability she never missed a Notting Hill Carnival. PATO was brainchild Jean Bernard and she showed true grit when the oasis of funding dried up she laboured tirelessly to keep the carnival band going. Despite the lack financial sponsorship, her labour of love for carnival never faltered and neither did she compromised on the quality of costumes she brought on the road carnival days. Notting Hill Carnival has lost a true pioneer, the ‘gun-lady’ has finally laid down her gun.
Without fail, each year the angel of carnival descends to take one its sons or daughters on their final journey. This year as Notting Hill Carnival mark their third chapter of its 50th anniversary, two of its prominent decuples, Arthur Peters and Jean Bernard have been summoned for their final. Both Peters and Bernard have made significant contributions to the Notting Hill carnival creating costumes in the traditional way while most other carnival bands followed the beads and
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Another Farewell What a month July has been! Fresh from my Canadian family reunion vacation – having kept abreast of daily news reports including a new UK Prime Minister, (our second female) and the US Presidential race stepping up a gear - it feels like I haven’t even been away – apart from the beautiful consistent Canadian heat and spending quality time with both sides of my family. 19th July marked the day Sam King MBE was laid to rest and the day his son clarified that his father was part of the precursor team formulating “The West Indian Carnival” which has grown to what we now lovingly refer to as the Noting Hill Carnival.
Wilks and Maxine Richards - they have been trojans. “I will be communicating through my blog to share not only my experience at The Drum but also my many years successfully operating at the highest levels in the voluntary, public and private sectors. Other topics for discussion include, Brexit, Diversity, African versus European style of management and the future of Black Arts and Culture in Europe. West Indians (as we were called), Africans from all areas of the continent and South Asians must begin to think in the interest of people who have cultures, histories, strategies, business, policies and political ideas - which are not Eurocentric - which can contribute to a better Britain for all.
Another national institution laid to rest this month was the Drum in Birmingham.
“Thank you all for support and kind words - however small, over the eleven plus years I have been the CEO of The Drum. Please note I have returned to London but happy to receive messages”.
Charles Small wrote a farewell roundrobin to his friends on the 11th July: “After three torturous months’ notice and winding down, as the outgoing CEO, I can now have my say publicly. Thank those of you who attended the formal closure of The Drum and apologies for not being able to personally share my thoughts.
Courtesy Alison Bajaican
“I would like you to share my gratitude and thanks to staff and associates who supported me in bringing the organisation to a close in a dignified manner and to prepare materials for archiving with BCC. This gallant and unselfish commitment means that the 22 plus years of The Drum history will not be lost. In the fullness of time students and PhD researchers will have access to a rich source of information. Special thanks must go to Denise Burgundy (the longest serving member of The Drum), Davinia Gregory, Purdy Bhogal, Mickeala
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
As Notting Hill Carnival celebrates 50 Golden Years, Culturepulse would like to pay homage to some of the pioneers that have helped to shape and nurture Notting Hill Carnival that was brought to life by Trinidadians in the Diaspora. Today, while Trinidadians have paved the way, the carnival is very much a Caribbean collective and incorporating a Elmer Betancourt: the first cosmopolitan rhythm, much as London’s Carnival Queen of Notting Hill diversity itself.
June Baden-Semper served with Claudia Jones
It is difficult to name everyone who have played a part in making this cultural event the most vibrant and spectacular display of colour and culture that proves, year after year that Notting Hill Carnival is the great unifier of the diverse fabric of London. However, with some effort we have compiled 50 names to coincide with the fifty golden years of Notting Hill Carnival. The people that are mentioned here have been collated in part by Culturepulse magazine and Ansel Wong from Elimu Mas, London.
Lord Sam first Soca DJ at Notting Hill Carnival. Lawrence Noel first Carnival band at Notting Hill Carnival.
Rhuanne Lasslet O’Brien Invitation to Russell Henderson saw the first pan on the streets of London that gave birth to Notting Hill Carnival. Renee Charles pioneering pupils in carnival.
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Former Chair of Notting Hill Carnival.
50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right; Bertie Delandro, Leslie Palmer, the man who brought a collective and organised Notting Hill carnival. Pepe Francis founder of Ebony and a pioneer of the steel band movement in London.
Claudia Jones began carnival shows to showcase the cultural talents of West Indians after the 1958 riots. She started the first West Indian newspaper, The West Indian Gazette.
Debbie Gardner, Secretary of the British Association of Steel Bands and former Trustee of the Notting Hill Carnival Trust.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
Russell Henderson played the first steel pan on the streets of London signalling the birth of Notting Hill Carnival.
Vernon ‘Fellows’ Williams founder of Genesis Mas band.
Peter Minshall. His costumes took the streets of London with Cocoyea.
Frank Rollock steel band and carnival pioneer and probably the only steel band where every member of the family plays the steel pan.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right, Sterling Betancourt who came to Britain with the first steel band entourage TAPSO to perform at the Festival of Britain in 1951. Cyril Khamai, known as the quiet man with a big presence. Sonny Blacks, carnival impresario extraordinaire.
From left to right, Clary Salandy of Mahogany Mas band, a designer continuously pushing the boundaries of carnival concepts. Ansel Wong, former Chair of Notting Hill Carnival and the man responsible for taking carnival to China. Joseph Charles, publisher of Soca News spreading the culture of the Caribbean music.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right, Mickey Dread, Channel One DJ and static DJ. Arthur Peters Notting Hill Carnival master wirebender/carnivalist. Adrian ‘Smokey Joe’ Joseph, music producer, radio DJ and carnival band leader.
From left to right, Martin ‘Prince of Soca’ Jay, radio DJ with one of the longest running radio shows playing exclusively Caribbean music. Arif Ali, publisher and former sponsor and defender of Notting Hill carnival. Shabaka Thompson, former CEO of the Yaa Centre and Yaa mas band.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right, Orville ‘Rocky’ Byron, veteran mas man. Jean Bernard, Notting Hill Carnival band leader and matriarch of PATO carnival band. Pro. Chris Mullard,, former CEO of Notting Carnival Trust.
From left to right, Lincoln Rahamut, founder of masquerade 2000 mas band. Arnim Boucaud, International carnivalist and leading figure in founding Cocoyea mas band. Dexter Khan, founder of Cocoyea mas band and the driving force behind the development of carnival culture in London.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right, Selwyn Baptiste, former Chair of Notting Hill Carnival. Larry Ford, founder of Flamboyan Carnival Club.
From left to right, Dudley Dickenson, Steel pan innovator and the man whose expertise helped to develop the Hand pan. Sister Monica Twang, her contribution to community spirit in the carnival arena is invaluable. Vino Patel, great supporter and sponsorship throughout the carnival arenas.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
From left to right, Wendy Lewis, aka WenDfirst British female calypso Monarch. She pioneered the way for other successful artiste who emerged after her. Alex Pascal, meritorious service to Carnival Arts, publisher and radio personality.
From left to right, Pax Nindi, invaluable services to the Carnival Arts and promoting African and Caribbean culture and carnivalist. Vincent John, aka Lord Cloak, veteran calypsonian a pioneer in his own right, winning the London Calypso Crown more than any other in London.
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50 years, 50 Notting Hill Carnival Pioneers
Clockwise from bottom, Michael La Rose, Historian/carnivalist and bandleader. Ashton Moore, aka Mighty Tiger, he started the London Calypso tent that became the home of British calypsonians. Louis Chase, his quiet contributions in carnival has not gone unnoticed. Bertha Joseph, former Brent Council Mayor and secretary for the then CAC. Junior Harris, a master carnival technician and costume construction with Mas 2000.Tony Soares he contributed tirelessly with the struggles to keep carnival in the Grove Vijay Ramlal, former chairman for the CAC who brought new direction for Notting Hill Carnival. Photographs courtesy Soca News, Ansel Wong & Elimu Mas Band, George Padmore Institute, Google.com, The London Notting Hill Carnival and Cashewdesign.
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A Strong Demand for Cocoa as the World Latches on to Cold Cocoa Drinks David Kalloo Caribbean cocoa growers should take heed of a growing trend now sweeping the US and is fast becoming popular in Europe. Brew bars are the new trend, following in the footsteps of the coffee trend set by the US company, Starbucks. Put simply, they are posh chocolate shops where you can shop for expensive exotic like chocolate and drink pure chocolate that would set
increased supply in recent years. In effect it pushes the cost of raw materials up. Nevertheless, the new ‘brew bar’ trend seems to have cornered a potential market with the new cold brew chocolate drinks. Maybe with this news, cocoa growers in the Caribbean can reinvest in cocoa production and capitalise on a market that has long term gains.
you back at least £7.50 a cup. Brooklyn based company, Mast Brothers and started the growing fascination with artisanal chocolate. A spokesperson for the company said. ‘Posh chocolate is where the money is.’ The idea certainly holds strong with a retail consultancy firm who affirmed that the worldwide chocolate consumption had declined and became stagnant in the last five years. This they attributed to the rich-world consumers are now eating healthier snacks. However, sales for dark chocolate grew by almost 5.1% and 3.3% last year in the US. One of the problems that the chocolate industry is faced with is the supply of quality cocoa beans. Most cocoa is produced by small growers who have not 43
A Tribute to Arthur Peters. Designed and made by 44
Carl and Lyn Gabriel