Editions Lifestyle Black History Month Magazine 2020 issue

EDITIONS editionbhm.com

OCTOBER 2020

CHILDREN ARE THE FUTURE KELVIN OKAFOR INSPIRED BY THE TIMES

BLACK HISTORY MATTERS

A PORTFOLIO OF £2BN WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE BLACK LIBERATION FRONT? A BLUEPRINT FOR CHANGE

BORIS JOHNSON

“...Black history is all our history”

Black Power Brokers 2020 Lady Colin Campbell on Black Lives Matter DJs Keep The Tables Turning Lambeth and Cllr Sonia Winifred Launch BHM 2020

LIFESTYLE

BLACK HISTORY MONTH MAGAZINE

COVID-19

GUARDING THE MIND

FROM AFRICA WITH LOVE

TO THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF JAMAICA BEAUTIFUL SKIN AND HAIR DELICIOUS COFFEE

Family bakery since 1966

AVAILABLE AT SELECTED: ASDA, TESCO, SAINSBURY’S, MORRISONS

and independent grocers nationally

Sunrise Bakery Woodlands Street, Smethwick, West Midlands, B66 3TF Tel: 0121 565 1647 E-mail: info@sunrisebakery.co.uk

CONTENTS October 2020

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Reader

Professor Hakim Adi Time for Change

Kelvin Okafor Cover Story

Welcome to Black History Month 2020 Editions Lifestyle Magazine. Black History Month UK celebrates the lives and contributions of the Afro-Caribbean and African diasporas in Britain irrespective of their origins. Since the first official Black History Month in 1987 which was created to fill the void in knowledge about the history of Black presence in the UK, it has grown to envelop a multitude of things ranging from current affairs, diversity and inclusion to historical facts. Not without setbacks and with good cause, it has become one of the most nationally celebrated months of the year with films, tv programmes, events, theatre and the arts in general.

This year, thanks to longstanding campaigners and the Black Lives Matter movement, has seen a surge in blue chip companies actively engaging in diversity/inclusion schemes creating new roles to ensure and work towards better representation of all people. Editions Lifestyle this issue has focussed on some of the sustainable development projects that young Black entrepreneurs have developed in the Elite 2020 section. Looking towards the land of their parents, providing employment whilst sustaining growth both at home and abroad, these young people are leading the way in the “Made In Britain” campaign that we believe will become more and more relevant as we enter a new era of bilateral trade and development.

Joy Sigaud - Founder-Editor

Beautiful Skin From Africa With Love

Editions Lifestyle Black History Month Magazine is published by Editions Media Limited© 30 City Road, London EC1Y 2AB Email:info@editionbhm.com Website: https://editionbhm.com Editor/Publisher: Joy Sigaud Editorial Assistants and Team: Serena Lee, Sybil Kretzmer, Marinella Franks Admin and Subscriptions: Debbie Lawrence Consultants: Errol Drummond, Antoine Sigaud, Professor Hakim Adi, Patrick Vernon Design by Far’n’Beyond Cover: Kuri by Kelvin Okafor ISSN 2632 - 9883

Dispersion of the African People The Human Tragedy - India

Editions Media Limited are publishers of Editions Lifestyle Black History Month Magazine, Windrush Review Newsletter, Editions’ Review® and the website editionbhm.com. We thank all the contributors and sponsors including UNESCO, Black Cultural Archives, the Jamaican High Commission, Windrush Foundation. In particular we wish to thank all who have contributed to this issue of the magazine.

All the content of this magazine is copyrighted and may not be produced in whole or part without the express permission of the publisher in writing.

Disclaimer: We disclaim any and all liabilities, including damages or loss that may result from your use or misuse of the magazine, its website or any of the content. No reproduction is permitted as a whole or in part. All rights reserved. Editions Lifestyle Black History Month Magazine® Editions Lifestyle Black History Matters™ Note: The content of this magazine does not necessarily reflect the publishers views

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Message from

HIS EXCELLENCY SETH GEORGE RAMOCAN, CD HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR JAMAICA It is my immense pleasure to join with you in celebrating Black History Month 2020.

This has been a truly challenging year and, like you, I am heartened by the resolve and determination of our people in adjusting to the ‘new normal’. During this global upheaval, the Jamaican High Commission continues to work along with many community groups and individuals to provide much needed support for vulnerable Jamaicans. We have made considerable progress since 1948, when approximately five hundred (500) Jamaicans and other Caribbean migrants arrived, settled and provided well-needed assistance in the rebuilding of a post-war Britain. As we navigate these uncharted waters buoyed by the indomitable spirit of our ancestors, we need now, more than ever, to show the same resilience of those Windrush pioneers.

This year, we stood defiantly against inequality and raciallymotivated aggression. The Black Lives Matter protests served as a catalyst for meaningful discussion and a commitment to pursue remedial action to arrest these lingering issues. As part of this movement, we must teach our children the true history of our contributions to humanity’s advancement and the building of Great Britain. We cannot shy away from the realities of slavery and institutional racism. Neither can we deny the retentions of our colonial past as we seek to uplift our people and instil racial pride in our youth.

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As person’s of African descent, we must understand our past and learn from those experiences to prevent its repeat and safeguard our collective future. As we celebrate Black History Month 2020, let us not forget the famous words of Jamaica’s first National Hero, the Right Honourable Marcus Mosiah Garvey who said,

“A people without the knowledge of their history, origin and culture, is like a tree without roots.”

May God continue to bless you and your families.

In Brief...

UNA MAUD VICTORIA MARSON Jamaican-born, she was a poet, writer-activist, editor and broadcaster. Marson was born on 6th May 1905 in St Elizabeth Jamaica and published her first book of poems in 1930. She travelled to London in 1932 and became the first black female BBC producer. Under her direction, the BBC Caribbean service ‘Calling the West Indies’ (1939–42) programme evolved into Caribbean Voices (1943–58). Una Marson was one of the most important catalysts for British Caribbean writing in Britain at that time.

TONY-ANN SINGH Jamaica’s Miss World to reign another year due to the coronavirus pandemic. On winning the title in 2019 the pageant marked the first time that five Black women simultaneously held the titles of the world’s top beauty pageants.

REGGAE, RAGGA, DANCEHALL DJ DAVID RODIGAN MBE HONOURED BY JAMAICA British DJ David Rodigan has been awarded an Order Of Distinction by the Jamaican Government for his global promotion of Jamaican music. A well respected champion of reggae music, his career began in London in the ’70s on BBC radio. He was an instant hit with reggae fans although most listeners assumed at the time, before the days of social media, that he was a Black DJ. Today, his energy and bounce continue to delight audiences.

THE GUARDIAN BLACK HISTORY TIMELINE CHARTS Available in print and online, the posters include some world-shaping individuals and momentous events in Black British history right up to the present day in a six-part series of wall charts. It is an excellent resource for children and adults alike and a good place to begin to learn about African and European history and how they are interlinked.

BOB MARLEY MUSICAL ‘GET UP STAND UP’ Under the direction of newly appointed Clint Dyer the production will chronicle the life of the Jamaican singersongwriter. The story has been confirmed to feature the songs “No Woman No Cry”, “Exodus”, “3 Little Birds”, the titular number “Get Up Stand Up” and more.

COMING TO ENGLAND: A TRUE STORY CELEBRATING THE WINDRUSH GENERATION

by Floella Benjamin, illustrated by Diane Ewen Beautifully illustrated, Baroness Benjamin tells the story of her childhood as one of the Windrush generation for a younger audience. She talks of dreaming of meeting the Queen, the voyage to England, the difficulties of making friends, and finally the joy of fitting in and meeting the Queen.

Published by Macmillan Children’s Books - available in leading bookstores from 8th October, £12.99

DID YOU KNOW… Hearing loss According to Dr P. Suvandra, children who sometimes seem inattentive in the classroom warrant some auditory investigation. Currently there are studies investigating the link between hearing loss and Sickle Cell disease.

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The Beatles and Windrush calypsonian Harold Phillips, stage name lord Woodbine, all residing in Liverpool, travelled together for their first overseas performance to Hamburg in 1960.

Visit the Editions Lifestyle website for more interesting bits of information and resources www.editionbhm.com

THE TIMES CRY OUT

BLACK HISTORY MATTERS

By Professor Hakim Adi NOTABLE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY HAKIM ADI RECOUNTS THE STRUGGLES OF BLACK PEOPLE IN BRITAIN THROUGH THE CENTURIES ACKNOWLEDGING THE ROOT AND CALLING FOR AN END TO RACISM. The recent upsurge against racism, especially state racism, and the public glorification of slavery, human trafficking and colonial oppression has again put the spotlight on Britain’s history. Britain was the world’s leading trafficker of African men women and children in the 18th century and the world’s largest colonial power in the 19th and 20th centuries. In those three centuries

many crimes were perpetrated in Africa and the Caribbean, as well as in North America, where the colonial government encouraged the importation of enslaved Africans as early as 1619. It is for this reason that the famous Jamaican historian J.A. Rogers once said that ‘England was the grandmother of prejudice and Virginia the mother,’ when he claimed that ‘white supremacy…was born

The history of anti-racism in Britain, however, is as long as the history of racism. In the 18th century, the struggle against racism was a central part of the campaign to abolish human trafficking in which Olaudah Equiano, Ottobah Cuguoano and others played such a leading role. Writings by these and other Africans, which refuted racist notions that Africans and Africa were inferior to Europeans and Europe, became part of the one of the largest political movements in Britain’s history, involving millions of men, women and children. It was so large that every attempt has been made to remove it and the abolitionist campaigns of the early 19th century from Britain’s history, perhaps to prevent everyone drawing the appropriate conclusions.

In the 20th century the struggle against racism continued often in very difficult circumstances, since the ‘colour bar’ as racism was referred to existed in accommodation, employment, including the armed forces, sport and elsewhere. The British government passed legislation, such as the Special Restriction Coloured Alien Seaman Order of 1925 that were openly racist and used to discriminate against black workers and their families for decades. During both World Wars a colour bar existed in the armed forces and in particular to prevent black people to become officers. From whatever extent official racism was relaxed during the wars because of protest, it was generally reinstated with full force when the conflicts ended. Before 1948, black boxers were even prevented from competing for British championships and belts. In that year Lionel ‘Dick’ Turpin

in British North American colonies.’

That racism, was the necessary justification for the trafficking, enslavement and colonial conquest of Africans and others, is now wellestablished. It became central to the ideology of Britain’s rulers and was not even illegal in this country until 1965, not least because successive governments refused to take any legal measures to outlaw it.

became the first British boxer who was not of ‘pure European descent,’ that is, the first black man to be allowed to compete for a British title, when he became British middleweight champion.

All of the major black political organisations of the twentieth century, the African Association, African Progress Union, West African Students Union, League of Coloured Peoples, PanAfrican Federation, Colonial Peoples Defence Association, Committee of African Organisations, were forced to campaign and organise against the scourge of racism. So were the coalitions that appeared in the 1960s, such as the Coordinating Committee Against Racial Discrimination and the Conference of Afro-Asian-Caribbean Organisations in the 1960s. After the passing of the so-called Race Relations Act in 1965 the struggle against racism continued and, in many instances, became even more necessary.

It is sobering to recall that nearly every major black historical personality in Britain has either been forced to take a stand against racism or been the subject of it and sometimes both, everyone from Olaudah Equiano to Claudia Jones before 1965 and countless others since. Even the celebration of Black History Month itself is a recognition that for the rest of the year racism and Eurocentrism remain major obstacles. The times cry out for us to make history and abolish racism in all its forms.

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JUNIOR GREEN The Man Behind The Salon KNOWN FOR HIS DEDICATION TO AFRO HAIR, HIS CAREER SPANS OVER THREE DECADES. HIS CV IS ENVIABLE AND INCLUDES THE RENOWNED ‘80S SPLINTERS SALON. JUNIOR GREEN SHARED WITH EDITIONS’ LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE HOW HIS SALON HAS ADJUSTED SINCE REOPENING AFTER LOCKDOWN, HIS START INTO HAIRDRESSING AND HIS THOUGHTS ON THE FUTURE OF AFRO HAIRDRESSING. Junior Green Salon is a multi-award winning hairdresser cited as one of the UK’s top salons in the heart of prestigious Kensington, London. Founder, Green has more than 30 years in the industry with many notable clients - he is one of the most celebrated Afro hairstylists in the UK.

Editions Lifestyle spoke to Green about reopening the salon after lockdown. He explained it was “very positive, we’d not seen the team in weeks, so it was great to see them again. At first, it was hectic, (with the new social distance rules) but now it’s quietened down.”

Like many businesses who provide close contact services, hairdressers have had to adjust to the new guidelines. He went on to explain home visits have increased, as a lot of his clients are now working from home.

“Keep pushing through until you get what you want.” he says.

Green and his partner Joy Miller are part of the Splinters alumni. Splinters was the legendary salon in the ‘80s with two large floors in Maddox Street in the heart of London’s West End. It was frequented by Black celebrities, musicians, politicians, nobility from Africa and anyone with a bank balance to facilitate. With rows of attended wash basins, slick head-turning stylists, it was, at the time, the most prestigious Afro hair salon in the UK, described by some as the Motown of British Afro Hairdressing.

The late Winston Isaacs pioneered the Splinters salon. Isaacs was a great mentor teaching not only hairdressing, but life skills, how to dress, speak and deportment. Many of the Splinter trainee hairdressers, like Green, went on to form their own successful salons.

Green first started out as a young photographer. His Caribbean parents wanted him to get a ‘proper job’ or go to university. Encouraged by his father, he applied for work experience as an 08 Editions lifestyle

administrator - the post happened to be at a hair salon. His love for hairstyling and business started there.

Eventually Green started his own salon, he faced challenges especially setting up premises in central London, but his vision and determination saw him through. Since then he and his team have won a plethora of industry awards.

“SALONS WILL BE MISSING OUT IF IN 2020 THEY ARE NOT OFFERING AFRO TREATMENTS AS A PART OF THEIR LIST OF SERVICES.” As well as motivating his team, he is passionate about teaching Afro hair skills to upcoming stylists. On a recent post at the time of lockdown and the BLM protests, he wrote about the lack of Afro hair skills within the mainstream industry. He wrote “Mixed raced people are now the largest ethnic minority group. With this in mind, salons will

be missing out if, in 2020, they are not offering Afro treatments as a part of their list of services.”

He educates hairdressers on behalf of L’Oreal Professional and GHD on the latest hairdressing and styling techniques. His advice for anyone who wants to get into hairdressing, “you have to put the work in! Get training and experience. People think that hairdressing is glamorous or easy, it’s not, and you have to put in the groundwork!”

Advertorial

Lambeth Council Launch Black History Month With a Host of Events and Activities

Cllr Sonia Winifred Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture

Lambeth Libraries are proud to be hosting Black History Month 2020. It has been a year like no other, and a year which has had a major impact on Black communities, be it through the disproportionate impact suffered from Covid-19 or the welling up of emotion and anger over the killing of George Floyd in America and the subsequent Black Lives Matter movement here.

Black History Month gives us the opportunity to shine a light on and celebrate the achievement of Black people and the contribution of the Black community to British society. It also places a responsibility on us all to search a little deeper to uncover a history often side-lined in mainstream discourse and further challenges us to deal with the consequences.

Join us with authors, film, theatre and discussion in a month-long chance to learn about and celebrate African Caribbean Heritage and Culture.

Cllr Sonia Winifred, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture said

“Last year, so many of you told us how inspiring and uplifting you found the events and this year’s programme is equally as exciting. This year we continue to remember and support the Windrush generation and acknowledge their struggle for a right to remain and for compensation, and the month includes something for all ages and all tastes.

Please take this wonderful opportunity to learn about and celebrate African Caribbean Heritage and Culture, which influence and enrich all our lives.”

For a free detailed guide to times, places and any booking details see Lambeth Council’s information pages for a free downloadable guide. www.lambeth.gov.uk/bhm

Highlights of the month so far include the launch of Alex Wheatle’s latest book, Cane Warriors, and a special evening with Kadie Kanneh-Mason discussing her new book House of Music: Raising the Kanneh-Masons. There will be more authors announced, workshops researching ancestry, online theatre and activities for children.

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THE BLACK LIBERATION FRONT, 1971-1993

BLACK HISTORY MATTERS

A.S. Francis

Photos: courtesy Tony Soares Co-founder of BLF

IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY AND MANY CHALLENGES, THE BLACK LIBERATION FRONT WAS A WELL STRUCTURED ORGANISATION WHICH MADE A HUGE IMPACT WITHIN THE BLACK DIASPORAS AS WELL AS INTERNATIONALLY. IT’S LEGACY STANDS AS A BLUEPRINT FOR ACTIVISM TODAY. The Black Liberation Front (BLF) was formed in 1971 and to date was one of the most active and impactful Black Power organisations in Britain. The Young Historians Project spoke with 9 former members of the BLF to capture their stories and create a documentary series alongside an exhibition for people to learn of this history and be inspired by it.

The BLF published the Grassroots Newspaper aimed at the people of Britain’s Black community. It offered an alternative news source to mainstream media. The pages of Grassroots were filled with artworks from BLF members, articles and poems relating to Black history, a Women’s Column, Family Page, information on cases of police brutality in Britain as well as news on anticolonial struggles taking place in Africa and the Caribbean at the time.

In those days it was extremely difficult to source Black literature. Books on Black history and politics were near impossible to find in high-street bookshops so the BLF established three Black bookshops across North and North West London including the Grassroots storefront on 10 Editions lifestyle

Ladbroke Grove which became a hub for information, events and community support. The Headstart bookshop on West Green Road in north London housed a supplementary school for young people. Volunteers taught maths, English and Black history on the weekends to counter the poor quality of education and discriminatory attitudes towards young Black people and children in British schools.

As a Pan-Africanist and socialist organisation the BLF was dedicated to the total liberation of Africa from colonialism in all its forms. In 1974 three BLF members were sent as delegates to the Sixth Pan-African Congress in Tanzania. The BLF also played a major role in organising the annual Africa Liberation Day celebrations in the UK during the 1970s and early 1980s. Using organisational links with liberation movements on the continent, the BLF raised money and sent medical supplies to support liberation struggles in Angola, Mozambique, South Africa and elsewhere.

Alongside education, employment and police brutality, housing was one issue which affected Black people in Britain during the late 20th century.

The BLF established the Ujima Housing Association to provide local Black communities, especially vulnerable young people and mothers, with safe and affordable housing. When Ujima eventually merged with London and Quadrant in 2008, it had assets to the value of £2 billion.

Other important aspects of the BLF’s work included its Prisoner Welfare Schemes and involvement in Britain’s Black women’s movement. Although the organisation folded in 1993 and experienced many challenges, including attacks from police, the National Front, state surveillance and internal political differences, the organisation left an indelible mark on the landscape of Black British activism and community self-help initiatives. It is during times such as the ongoing worldwide calls for an end to police brutality and racist structures, that we can lean on the legacies of groups such as the Black Liberation Front for guidance and a blueprint to create tangible change.

“We stand for the right of Black people to determine our own destiny.

This of course involves great personal sacrifices, but it is a responsibility we must take up. We are our own liberators.” - BLF’s Working Platform The Young Historians Project, founded in 2015, is a non-profit organisation formed of young people of African and Caribbean descent in Britain. Their mission is to produce dynamic projects showcasing underrepresented aspects of Black British History, and to encourage other young people to engage in these histories.

For more information visit the website: younghistoriansproject.org/ blackliberationfront

The Man Behind the Drawings Kelvin Okafor is a British born artist of Nigerian descent. He studied at City & Guilds Art School then went on to study fine art at Middlesex University.

Walking along Oxford Street London on a fine July day one could be forgiven for assuming the huge art display on the landmark Flannel store façade were a series of excellent photographs. In fact, they are the work of hyper-realist artist

J.S. When did you discover you had a gift and when did you decide that you were going to be an artist?

K.O. I discovered I had a gift or talent when I was 15 years of age. I had always felt I was an artist at heart ever since I fell in love with drawing at 8 years of age but I decided to dedicate my life to art and share it publicly in my last year at university in 2009.

J.S. What or who was your initial inspiration?

K.O. My initial inspiration came from my early interactions with close family and friends. Later in life my mentors became the wise individuals I encountered in my daily life.

J.S. Who is your favourite artist of the old masters and why?

K.O. A favourite artist from the old masters would be Leonardo Da Vinci. I was particularly inspired and fascinated by how he was able to utilise the human mind and master a variety of mediums.

I would love to meet Leonardo Da Vinci and pick his brains. I would love to hear how he saw the world and hear his reasons for creating the ‘Mona Lisa’.

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extraordinaire Kelvin Okafor. Such is his mastery that these fine drawings understandably captivated passers by with crowds gathering to view and take photographs. Kelvin, an award winning artist, has an impressive portfolio of solo shows and exhibitions in some of the capital’s exclusive galleries. Editions Lifestyle magazine editor Joy Sigaud asked him a few questions for further insight into the artist himself.

J.S. Tell us a bit about your first exhibition/break?

K.O. My first break happened in 2013 when the BBC filmed me and which resulted to being catapulted into the media and the art world. My first solo exhibition happened the year after my big break and was held at a Mayfair Gallery in Albermarle Street.

J.S. Tell us a bit about the Kelvin Art School and mentoring programmes?

K.O. I have recently launched my first ever Online Academy - Kelvin Okafor Art Academy. On there I am conducting Live Tutorial classes and releasing real-time drawing videos where I demonstrate and teach students my techniques. I also offer mentoring for beginner and advanced artists - helping both artistically and also through the challenges of daily life in pursuit of their passions.

J.S. What are the main mediums that you work with and which is your favourite?

K.O. The main mediums I work in are graphite and charcoal pencil. These are my favourite mediums to create in.

J.S. What was the impact of the Flannels current showcase and how did you put it together for example who were the models - is there a story behind that?

K.O. The impact of the W1 Curates and Flannels showcase was immense.

The portraits I displayed were of close family members as well as famous public figures - all who have been of major influence and inspiration to me.

In various ways, each individual I have drawn has shaped my journey in areas of art, spirituality and philosophy.

In the current climate we are in, the particular portraits I have selected to showcase are of people I feel are representatives of the Black Lives Matter movement. They have all contributed to society in ways that has offered inspiration and a fresh perspective on how people of ethnic background are seen.

J.S. What is your vision for the future?

K.O. My vision for the future is to continue conducting my online academy tutorials and helping as many people as possible.

For those who wish to learn the art of hyperrealism drawing techniques, The Kelvin Okafor Academy with online courses and webinars is now open. For more information about Kelvin’s art and art programmes please visit the website: www.kelvinokaforart.com

KELVIN OKAFOR Artist

Kelvin Okafor is an artist with a mission. He has used his extraordinary gift to capture faces and souls beyond the façade of a superficial pose giving us insight into certain characteristics of the sitter. He has won recognition including an award, is renowned for his gentle nature and nurturing the young at a simple request. Now at just 34 he has set up the Kelvin Okafor Academy, combining business with know-how. He is a perfect and inspirational candidate for our new Elite 2020 section.

From as early as he could remember, Kelvin Okafor has always been an emotional and highly sensitive individual. Inspired, touched and captivated by almost everything in his immediate surroundings. Around the age of 8, Okafor vividly remembers having a love and strong fascination for drawing with pencils.

He found the instrument to be a humble one and would often use the expression ‘aliveness’ to describe it’s technical and sentimental value. What fascinated him most about pencils was that with single shades of lead, he could create tones and textures so defined and so abstract, an illusion of colour would be formed before him. He became heavily inspired by this notion and spent most of his early years trying to utilise its technical capabilities.

The style in which Okafor creates his portraits is known as Hyper-realism. Art Critic, Estelle Lovatt describes his work as “Emotional Realism.” She mentions how the work of Okafor goes beyond being just photorealist drawings, and instead coins the term Emotional Realism to describe the affective nature of his artwork.

Kelvin says:

“

“

I LOVE TO DRAW FACES. EACH FACE TO ME TELLS AN INTRIGUING STORY REGARDLESS OF AGE, GENDER, RACE OR BACKGROUND. IN THE PROCESS OF PUTTING PENCIL TO PAPER, I BEGIN BY DRAWING IN SECTIONS/STAGES. SINCE I WAS A CHILD I HAVE ALWAYS CREATED DRAWINGS THIS WAY. I VISUALLY DISSECT FACIAL FEATURES - I STUDY THEM AND THEN I PUT THEM BACK TOGETHER LIKE PIECES IN A PUZZLE. THIS METHOD OF CREATING HELPS ME UNDERSTAND EXPRESSIONS AND ALSO HELPS ME APPRECIATE THE LENGTHY PROCESS EACH PORTRAIT DRAWING TAKES.

Artworks: drawings on canvas - famous faces

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SUPER MANNY

ELITE 2020

The Nanny With A Mission GENDER EQUALITY AND CHILDCARE TO THE NEXT LEVEL. SOUGHT AFTER AWARD WINNING MANNY NANNY JOSS CAMBRIDGE-SIMMONS LEADING THE WAY AND NURTURING THE YOUNG.

Joss is the founder of ‘Jossy Care’, the leading childcare service that has set tongues wagging. Now frequently invited to deliver talks on topics such as male self-care, mental health, wellbeing, love, childcare and creating change, Joss is defying the odds to give back to the next generation.

Over the past decade, Joss has worked in various nurseries, as a youth worker and a support worker in care homes with children who have severe mental health issues to name a few.

Keen to address the male stereotypes within the childcare industry, Joss is on a mission to raise awareness on sexism and discrimination.

His positive approach is what is gaining him the attention of parents, practitioners and the media. His finger firmly on the pulse, Joss knows only too well where many children who have the odds stacked against them end up.

Joss Cambridge-Simmons founder of Jossy Care

“

I know young people who have experienced similar situations to me or even worse. They appear to be functioning but turn to the roads, or use drugs, alcohol and sex as a vice.

In the early part of 2017, Joss gave his first public talk about his experiences and hasn’t looked back.

Joss was part of the 56 Black Men campaign and has been featured in The Sun, Time Out magazine and Home Carer magazine to name a few. He has also been on BBC news London, ITV news, London Live news and East London radio.

Last year Joss won a National Diversity Award in the category of Positive Role Model.

JUSU Brothers is a health focused, Pan Asian eatery and juice bar, offering a wide range of healthy food and juices at the intimate restaurant in Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill. Formed by a diverse team of creatives working London’s West End nightlife industry as a concept to bring wellness, health and tranquility to their hectic lifestyles. Environmentally friendly, the eatery promises a fresh upbeat approach to to healthy food. The assortment and recipes have been carefully selected and developed to energise, nourish and satisfy. The food, freshly prepared everyday, uses organic and seasonal ingredients which provides authentic, rich and fresh flavours.

147-149 Westbourne Grove London W11 2RS Order: deliveroo.co.uk Menu: jusubrothers.com

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“

Described as the UK’s leading ‘super manny’, Londoner Joss Cambridge-Simmons is taking modern childcare to the next level. The Londoner who is changing the narrative and smashing stereotypes.

ELITE 2020

EMOTIONAL TIMES

By Dr Justin Basquille

Dr Basquille, Consultant Psychiatrist to the Royal Brompton Hospital, specialises in the psychiatric problems of adulthood. He is well known and respected in his area of expertise and gives some valid opinions on the effects of the Covid-19 lockdown and restrictions on the mind with some frank and useful tips.

How is the nation coping emotionally in the time of lockdown!

For some, the pandemic has been something of a godsend, opening up new ways of living. People have been able to move beyond the daily grind and find new ways of working and socialising.

Who could possibly have imagined just some months ago the enormous and quite sudden changes to the daily lives of millions around the world?

Although these changes have caused mayhem for many, many others have seen them as an unexpected, if somewhat mixed, blessing. People have very quickly got used to their new liberty to organise their days in new ways, no longer shackled to Victorian modes of working. Why be an office slave, toiling away in an uncomfortable environment, when you can do so much work, so much

more comfortably from home? This works of course only if home is a better environment than the office. It is not for everyone of course. Noisy kids, bolshy partners, demanding dependents, could quickly strain one’s patience. But work, even in an unfavourable setting, does tend to keep one sane.

Sanity cannot be taken for granted. The pressures of the lockdown have been too much for many. People have been increasingly breaking down, losing the plot and decompensating emotionally, as the confinements and restrictions continue.

In our practice, we are seeing people from all professional walks of life finding themselves unable to cope any longer.

They need help but do not always know what to do or how to get it. Anxiety and low-level depression gnaw away at them.

Panic attacks, OCD, eating disorders and pre-existing issues which otherwise would not have risen to the surface, are revealed or exacerbated. Occasionally it gets much worse, with severe emotional reactions and even psychosis.

People distract themselves with behaviour that can rapidly turn bad; comfort-eating, binge-drinking and drug

use, compulsive online shopping and online gambling. All of these just add to the burden of misery.

People fall prey to literally outlandish conspiracy theories which seem to have lately taken on a new life of their own. In the absence of clear messages from Government or those generally in authority, mad ideas rush in to fill the void. These theories, given added credence by glitzy, if glib, online videos, signal a deeper societal anxiety and unease and are an attempt to control unknown forces that are beyond our ability to counter. There has been a collapse in confidence in the state, in experts and in those supposedly in the know. If you can pick a selection of facts (half – facts will do), line them up in a spurious sequence and compose a compelling narrative from them, ignoring any counterarguments or facts, then you’re on to a social media winner. It can be hard to resist the lure of alien illuminati and the machinations of famous billionaires who seem to be out to dominate the rest of us. The further down that road you go, the more out of touch with reality one becomes. In my view that way lies madness.

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What then for those who just want to get better, to get stronger and to cope with all this lockdown stress? What can be done if you are suffering from anxiety, panic, palpitations, shortness of breath, feeling sick, headachy, exhausted, pessimistic and hopeless? If insomnia, loss of appetite, bowel disturbance or loss of libido affect you? What can you do if life seems to have lost its allure, if you can no longer see a future, feel any pleasure, or worse?

In situations like that, don’t let things drift. Seek help. The best way to do that is to speak to your GP, who can assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. If there are physical issues, they can be investigated and dealt with. If medication is needed then the GP can prescribe that or seek the help of a psychiatrist if need be. Anyone can refer themselves or someone else (with their consent) to the NHS locality mental health services for free psychotherapy.

Anyone can refer themselves for private psychotherapy through any of a multitude of approved and regulated services.

But no matter what the nature of the problem or the proposed investigations or treatment, do not forget the basics.

Rest and relaxation, time out from stressful activities, proper hydration and nutrition and regular exercise are vital. Meditation, mindfulness, religious observance and other practices which calm body and soul are very helpful.

Talking therapy helps organise your thoughts, and is helpful even if you do not feel you have anything much to talk about. You may not even feel you are making progress but the very fact that you are disciplining yourself in trying to clarify your thoughts is itself helpful.

We are living through an unprecedented experience, not seen in almost any of our lifetimes. We do not know how long this will last, how it will affect us personally, our families and friends or how it will affect the wider society. Who knows what the outcome will be? We cannot individually control that. But what we can influence is our own personal psychological and physical well-being.

Look after yourself and look after others.

Do what you can and do not worry about what cannot be done. There is always someone there to help.

Young Movers and Shakers

Dr Basquille also runs a private clinic and can be contacted for further information at

drbasquille@gmail.com

Some useful contacts:

• A comprehensive list can be found on the NHS website:

www.nhs.uk /conditions/ stress-anxiety-depression/ mental-health-helplines

• Ring 111 • Samaritans Tel 116 123 helpline 24 hour, Text “SHOUT” to 85258

ELITE 2020

Award winning DJ China L’One has in mind to shake up the world of music entertainment. As we see more and more female DJs in the London clubs, China has taken it a step further by providing a platform for up and coming female DJs in what was once a male dominated environment. Born in Sierra Leone she founded We Run The World in 2012.

Since that time she has used social media to promote her business and has played and provided female DJs to perform worldwide. Her impressive list of clients include: Columbia Pictures, Channel 4, the Women’s FA Cup Final. She has been featured in Forbes, The Sun, Fox News to name just a few.

China L’One at No. 10 Downing Street at a Black History Month Event.

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Advertorial

JAMAICAN BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

What’s all the fuss about?

The Finest Speciality Coffee from Jamaica, sustainably sourced and manufactured.

Historically, the British public have had a love affair with drinking tea however coffee is increasingly becoming the hot drink of choice for the UK consumer.

The coffee industry has been growing at about 10% per annum in recent years and that trend is set to continue for the foreseeable future. Coupled with this rise in coffee consumption is the increase in demand for specialty coffee.

What is Speciality Coffee?

Specialty coffee is a term for the highest grade of coffee available, typically relating to the entire supply chain, using single origin or single estate coffee.

Speciality coffee is characterised by beans of the best flavour which are produced in special micro-climates.

In steps - Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee!

Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is widely regarded as one of the finest coffees in the world because of its balance of flavour, aroma, body and acidity.

Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is considered to be a specialty coffee which means that it operates within the luxury end of the market due to its rarity and premium quality. The coffee is farmed at altitudes of up to 5000 feet above sea level. These conditions are ideally suited for coffee production because the soil is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus and there is a lot of year-round rainfall and cloud cover. Based on taste, smoothness, body, aroma, and flavour Jamaican

Blue Mountain coffee consistently ranks as one of the top 3 coffees in the world when tested by “Q Grade” coffee cuppers - an institute that evaluates speciality grade coffee.

The high altitude and mountainous terrain in which the coffee is grown do however make cultivation more challenging. All the coffee is handpicked, and the processing of the coffee is also a laborious exercise. The coffee is 100% sun dried and is then rested for 8 weeks in controlled conditions. After that it is hand sorted to differentiate between the quality of the beans.

Before it can be exported, the coffee must undergo visual inspection and testing by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA). This is to ensure that the coffee meets the standards that are required for it to be sold under the Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee trademark. It is a rigorous process, but the end result is a truly beautiful thing. This is the reason why it commands prices that are several times higher than the regular mass produced coffee blends that you would find in local multi-national chain suppliers.

Eighty percent (80%) of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is exported to Japan and the rest of the world has to “fight” over the other twenty percent (20%)! For years it has been difficult to get genuine Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee here in London.

I am extremely proud to be able to offer this premium product to the world which has been nurtured for almost 30 years on my family’s farm in the Clydesdale region of the Jamaican Blue Mountain, which is the site of one of Jamaica’s oldest coffee plantations and is famed for producing beans of consistent size, and quality. This venture is very close to my heart as I carry the torch of my father’s legacy since his passing 3 years ago and this is one of the reasons I can guarantee the authenticity and premium quality in every bean.

Coffee lovers can now enjoy this fine brew by purchasing online at Royal Blue Mountain coffee www.royalbluemountaincoffee.com Follow us on Instagram at:

I @Royalbluemountaincoffeejamaica

All these factors mean that Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee production is miniscule compared to the larger coffee producing countries like Brazil and Columbia. Exportable annual production varies between 400 and 1,000 metric tonnes which is equivalent to just 0.1 % of annual Colombian production!

This just ensures that Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee remains elusive but highly treasured.

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SOULFUL DISHES

To Celebrate Black History Month We all love our traditional home-cooked dishes but do you know how similar dishes are made from across the African diaspora?

As we head into the winter months, why not try a warm aromatic, hot and tasty West African Pepper Soup. Pepper soup is a broth made primarily with meat or seafood, a blend of toasted spices like nutmeg or ginger, sliced vegetables and chillies.

The Jamaican equivalent is an excellent autumn recipe. It encompasses that warm feeling with added flavours from across the Caribbean islands. The combination is a mouth-watering fusion worthy of being repeated again and again. This is also a broth made with a choice of meat or seafood with added

pumpkin, dumplings, potatoes, thyme, flour and scotch bonnet pepper.

Gumbo is a popular dish in the U.S. state of Louisiana, the official state cuisine.

The name derives from the West African word for okra. Often cited as an example of the melting-pot nature of Louisiana cooking, many speculate the origins of the dish came from West Africa, crossed with French and Cajun cuisine. The authentic creole meal consists primarily of a flavoured stock, meat or shellfish, a thickener, and three kinds of vegetables ― celery, bell peppers, and onions.

Chow is an incredibly easy healthy Trinidadian snack/side with garlic, cilantro and chilli. Sweet, salty and spicy it’s refreshing and delicious. This easy refreshing dish has lots flavour, it is great as a side dish or just as a snack.

The Ultimate Pineapple Chow

An Editions Lifestyle choice of the month

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • •

1 Large Pineapple (peeled, cored, cubed) 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 jalapeño pepper (sliced thin) 2 scotch bonnet peppers (sliced thin) 3 large cloves garlic (crushed) 2 tablespoon cilantro (chopped fine) 2 oranges (juice) 3-5 clementines (juice) 2 limes (juice) 1 small red onion (sliced thin)

Simply chop up fruit, garlic, cilantro and other ingredients - mix them together, along with some lime juice, sea salt and pepper.

*All of the recipes above vary in taste and preference depending on added ingredients. Photo Pineapple Chow: courtesy www.caribbeanpot.com

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GONE BUT NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN A LIFE-CHANGING INCIDENT THAT HAPPENED 35 YEARS AGO BRINGS TOGETHER SIR DAVID ADJAYE AND LEE LAWRENCE AS A MONUMENT IS ESTABLISHED IN MEMORY OF CHERRY GROCE Lee Lawrence, the son of Cherry Groce, has a new book The Louder I Sing, a powerful memoir about growing up in Britain. Lee who was just 11 years old when his mother was wrongfully shot by police in Brixton in 1985 has spent his life campaigning for justice on her behalf. Joy Sigaud asked him for some comments: J.S. What does the Cherry Groce Memorial mean to you and your family... and the wider community?

L.L. For me personally and my family the memorial means that my mum’s memory and legacy is solidified in Black British history as it should be. In terms of the community and the wider community, it is something we can all take strength from, that truth and justice can and will prevail. It’s a symbolisation of hope of

CHERRY GROCE Foundation

what we can achieve when we come together and unite. There is a great learning opportunity to prevent history repeating its self.

J.S. Did your family receive any form of compensation for this injustice/error?

L.L. I would like to see more compassion and empathy for what we have had to endure to allow these deep rooted wounds to heal. Secondly to see some real accountability.

L.L. What the family was successful in achieving was reparations to acknowledge the irreparable damage that was caused as a result of multiple serious failings at the hands of the Metropolitan police.

Lastly, a real collective effort to put things right with those who have been on the receiving end of these terrible injustices, at the heart of the conversation about solutions.

J.S. Seeing the gross injustices and victimisation marginalised communities continue to experience, do you see a way forward?

L.L. Because by nature I am an optimist I will say where there is a will there is a way.

The memorial will be delivered by the Cherry Groce Foundation, which is a registered charity that offers a wide range of support primarily for marginalised Black, Caribbean and African communities who continue to be discriminated against even in modern British society. This is especially due to race, class and disability.

Founded by her son Lee Lawrence it offers a variety of services including community transport. It also seeks to assist in social and restorative justice and provide education and guidance in overcoming adversity.

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J.S. And what would you like to see?

Despite suffering life changing and life limiting injuries caused by the police, the experiences and memory of Dorothy ‘Cherry’ Groce epitomises the daily struggle which affects a large proportion of the Black community. But, as a continuous source of inspiration, an example of resilience and strength, her spirit and courageousness envelops not only the heart of Brixton but also, the wider community and these values are at the very core of the Foundation.

SIR DAVID ADJAYE OBE RA INTERVIEW

By Joy Sigaud His illustrative answers are inspirational. The British-Ghanaian architect Sir David Adjaye’s views on overcoming racism, the Black Lives Matter movement and the ultimate sacrifice of Cherry Groce representing so many victims come to the forefront as his latest monument - a lasting memorial to her, is unveiled this year. The interview gives great insight into an unquestionably brilliant mind.

J.S. We have seen the incredibly successful exhibition at the Design Museum London Making Memory which won the 2019 Beazley Design of the Year. The award winning Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Washington is an international landmark of architectural excellence and was named Design of the Year for 2017. Along with an accolade of landmark structures, tell us a bit about the driving force behind you. When did you decide to become an architect?

D.A. I knew from early on that I wanted to do something creative while still honoring my education which was so important to my family. I thought, how can I have a career and also bring artistic sensibilities into question?

I took a foundations course and from there enrolled in an interior and three dimensional course at Middlesex. It was at this time that I decided specifically to concentrate on architecture. After a few years of working within the profession, I applied and received acceptance to the South Bank University in London. I made a deal with the Dean of the school where I said “I am quite mature and have come to this quite late, but I’d like to see if I can do this in one year. Can I do this degree in one year instead of three?” and he said “I’ll tell you what, you can do the first term and if you pass with excellent grades then you can go through, if you don’t, you go back to first year”. Him giving me a chance made me so happy that it put the fire beneath me. I passed, got a first class honours, and received the national award.

While I was studying at South Bank University, I designed a facility for the handicapped after witnessing my brother’s day school for the disabled. His current school was inefficient and I wanted to design something with dignity where he didn’t have to negotiate the world on such a grand level everyday. This project demonstrated to me that not only can architecture provide a connection between ‘creativity’ and ‘career’ but it can also act on the level of great service. Designing for difference and dynamism within societies and questioning the “norms” of the built environment as they operate across time and space are ever-present tasks that I choose to undertake within my designs.

J.S. Studying architecture is a long course which requires dedication, the vision of an artist and engineering and technical skills.

What advice do you have for young people of colour who are contemplating or indeed already studying the subject?

D.A. For students of colour in architecture going into the world, I can only tell you that you are the front lines and the profession needs what you represent. We live in a world where the voices of diversity, the voices of colour, are not a part of the built environment. What you will be contributing is critical and it’s a criticality that will not come easy. Unlike your contemporaries and students who aren’t of colour, the world doesn’t contain our history. Institutions are built on the Western-European narratives, the colonial narrative, that works to erase whoever exists outside of them. You have to take this education and root it in your own history. Look to your ancestors, your heritage and your own profound historical past.

One of my favourite Ghanaian words in the Twi language is ‘sankofa’ which literally means ‘go back and get it’ or go to the past to learn for the future. You have to search for the histories that are hidden from you, tap into your abilities as a collective to remember, and move with this honourable memory into a transformation so powerful that it changes the world all together. People will question why you’re questioning and moving outside of a supposed norm, but don’t be disheartened by this. Challenges will arise but know that you are the champions upholding the legacy of your ancestors and the dream to live in a world where you’re able to see yourself directly in the cities, towns and communities of the world.

J.S. A trailblazer in modern architecture and design in an already competitive field, your work has been described by some as a “major turning point” in architecture from buildings to monuments and having jointly, with Ron Arad, won the bid to design the Holocaust Memorial in Westminister, tell us a bit about your latest project, The Cherry Groce Memorial.

D.A. The Cherry Groce Memorial in Brixton is a project sited in Windrush Square as a tribute to the life of an innocent mother who was shot in her home in 1985 by the Metropolitan Police. Her name was Cherry Groce. The memorial is designed to act as a beacon of hope, to honour and inspire the community who rose up to protest the institutional racism and systemic injustice faced by the Black British community.

The single column represents Cherry’s strength which is balanced with a base symbolising the support of the community emphasised by benches, meant to enhance the functionality of seating and engaging with the structure. The roof speaks to the protection and shelter of the Brixton community while its planting serves as a reminder of change, growth and optimism.

J.S. In the context of the Black Lives Matter wave in all that it encompasses, this is very timely, and although Cherry Groce for the most part was not a household name, in spite of being the catalyst for the 1985 uprising in Brixton can you tell us a bit about the message behind the design and what it is you are trying to achieve.

D.A. It’s unfortunate that only now, with the amazing work of the Black Lives Matter movement, are issues of systemic racism and oppression within society surfacing as they’ve existed previously to this moment.

Monumentalised in this memorial is a remembrance to a woman who represents an entire community - the African-Caribbean community in the UK - who live, navigate and negotiate the racism of Empire every single day. The importance of creating the memorial within the public realm is so that the memory of a struggle becomes entangled with, and ritualised in everyday life to inspire the community with a power that seeks justice. This is a new type of monument that isn’t a colonial structure or memory of a slave owner. This is a monument to inspire a community and future generations with the hope and power of the truth.

21 Editions lifestyle

CHOICE FM CELEBRATED WITH BLUE PLAQUE

By Serena Lee The UK’s first 24-hour Black radio station Choice FM will receive a blue heritage plaque. The honour celebrates Choice FM’s UK broadcasting history and impact. The plaque unveiling is due to take place on October 7th, in Brixton, at the station’s first HQ. The London Blue Plaque scheme along with Nubian Jak Community Trust (NJCT), founded by Jak Beula, celebrates the links between notable Black figures of the past and the buildings in which they lived and worked.

Choice FM’s origins began in Brixton in 1990, it was Britain’s first-ever licensed radio station playing the music of black origin. The show expanded the reach of genres such as reggae, soca, hip-hop and grime. The station regularly supported upcoming artists and is also remembered for its sound clashes such as the epic Dizzee Rascal v Asher D clash, a definitive moment in grime history.

On the 7th of October 2013, Choice FM was abruptly taken off air in favour of Capital Xtra. The station had a growing and diverse audience and closure spelt the end of an era although Choice FM had set the foundation for its successor. Specialist DJs were axed from the roster. DJ 279 played the latest tracks, Daddy Ernie - reggae, Natty B - soca and Martin Jay as well as Dave P’s gospel show were all axed.

Exclusively, Choice FM’s legendary reggae DJ Daddy Ernie spoke to us about his time at Choice FM and campaigning for the blue plaque.

- As a pioneer of Choice FM can you tell me briefly about your show Superjam?

My show was born out of my pirate radio station days at LWR (London Weekend Radio) my introduction into radio. It became and still is (on VibesFM) the only 5-day a week reggae show on legal radio in Europe.

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Daddy Ernie

- What is your favourite memory working at Choice FM? Interviewing most of my childhood heroes, like Gregory Isaacs, Freddie McGregor and the new stars of the past two decades like Shaggy and Sean Paul, a truly a phenomenal experience.

- How did it feel when you got the green light for the Blue Plaque?

The Blue Plaque was essential not only for the community but for everyone who made Choice FM the station it became.

It was like they wanted to write Choice FM out of radio history, we could not allow that.

Ernie and a group of former staff members and fans of Choice FM raised money for the blue plaque to celebrate its 30th Anniversary. The team approached the Nubian Jak organisation and recently got the green light. Daddy Ernie said he felt elation at their victory “it felt like when we first broadcasted back in the 90s!” He finishes in expressing “In years to come people can say that is where the first UK Black Radio started.”

DALGETY TEA FACTS “MORINGA TEAS”

Did know Moringa has • • •

7 x vitamin C than orange 4 x calcium of milk 4 x vitamin A of carrot

• •

3 x potassium of banana 2 x protein of yogurt

Visit www.dalgety.co

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Beautiful Skin, Beautiful Life

FROM AFRICA WITH LOVE Borne out of desperation and trauma, multi-award winning Shalom Lloyd had to do something about her son’s excruciating eczema. Turning to traditional remedies mixed up in the kitchen she found a lasting solution to her son’s problem. Today, Shalom Lloyd runs a sustainable, environmentally friendly company with her pioneering products. The journey begins in Africa.

Naturally Tribal Skincare is a proudly British company, using only nature’s gifts to create natural skincare products for the whole family without the use of synthetic chemicals. They import personally selected natural ingredients from Africa for research, testing, formulation and manufacture in the United Kingdom. The end products are beautifully packaged for global distribution and export whilst empowering African women in the process.

Naturally Tribal Skincare was born from personal experience. In 2014, after four IVF cycles, founder Shalom Lloyd was blessed with twins. Her boy, Joshua had miserable eczema - scratch ‘till you bleed’ irritation and she couldn’t bear the idea of smothering his sensitive new skin with chemical emollients and steroids. As a qualified pharmacist, Shalom understood the enormous value of medical treatments and the skin which is a huge exchange organ that absorbs a lot of what we put on it.

24 Editions lifestyle

Shalom believes that what we put on ourselves, and our family’s skin is just as important as what we eat.

She looked to her African heritage for inspiration, recalling recipes containing all-natural ingredients, which had been used in Africa for generations. She started to experiment in her kitchen. Using high quality shea butter as a main base she stumbled across the right formulation and within three days of application, Joshua’s skin cleared!

She says “What people don’t seem to understand is that skin diseases remain a major cause of disability worldwide and as many as 15 million people are living with an infuriating skin condition in the UK alone. 1 in every 5 children in the UK is affected by eczema at some stage”.

She continues “We are working with the community in Africa from where our shea butter is sourced (Kingdom of Essan, Niger State) on infrastructure and employment – this underpins our mission and vision. We aim to provide sustainable, fair and enjoyable sources of income for local producers of our ingredients, their families, villages, communities and local areas, thereby empowering the women who are the main workforce. #TradeNotAid.”

Shalom Lloyd

Expertise and heritage are integral to the Naturally Tribal brand, so their collaboration with the people of Essan goes way beyond making ‘just another shea-based skincare product’. The ingredients and products pay homage to a rich African cultural identity and provide an opportunity for everyone to recognise the significance of the women of Africa.

Our mission is to transform natural ingredients into amazing products by ethically sourcing organic seeds, tree nuts, oils and turning them into innovative and enriching premium skincare products for skin conditions.

Achieving this whilst at the same time changing lives, protecting the natural environment and empowering African women and the continent from where these unique ingredients originate.

Essan women

If you are affected or wish to know more about Naturally Tribal Skincare products visit their website: www.naturallytribalgroup.com

Sorting the nuts

Cracking with mortar

Sun drying kernels

Naturally Tribal staff

25 Editions lifestyle

EDITIONS’ BLACK POWER BROKERS OF 2020

LEGACY

Making a difference Everyone continues to reel from the effects of Covid-19 in a semi state of stupor and confusion with seemingly the entire globe in at least a partial state of lockdown.

As some grieve over lost ones, others fear for loved ones and themselves, economies are decimated with no end in sight, there are those who raise their heads above the parapet in an inexorable stance for change.

As our front cover so beautifully articulated depicts, The Children are the Future no one has demonstrated their concern for the welfare of the children of struggling families whose suffering is expounded during lockdowns and depression as has football legend Marcus Rashford. Neither for the sake of fame nor glory, he used his platform as an already known name to make a stand. Children whose families cannot afford it must have free school meals. In a developed nation such as ours no one should go hungry but they do, unnoticed, in spite of the many food banks that are around catered and facilitated by willing volunteers. Rashford who put

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his head above the parapet by lobbying ministers for school meals to be provided throughout the summer holidays has made a difference.

Three African Americans we cannot ignore are Patrisse Cullors, president and co-founder of Black Lives Matter, along with Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi. The women came together after the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin to form an active response to systemic racism. Seven years later their movement, through largely peaceful demonstration, has had an impact globally. In Britain we have seen monuments that most of us were not remotely offended by, simply because we didn’t know our history, removed; countless organisations from private members clubs to industry, from fashion to finance have implemented or are in the process of implementing measures for change. Whilst the fundamental purpose of the cause remains unresolved it cannot be denied that these women are true 21st Century Black Power Brokers and in 2020 they have made a difference.

Edward Enninful editor of British Vogue has well and truly raised his head above the parapet. Listed in 100 Great Black Britons 2020 he used the platform to make a stand for change. Aside from featuring the most Black models in the magazine since its inception, he actually took it a few leaps further by making a stand in the September 2020 issue in favour of activism as a catalyst for change. He used the biggest issue of the year as a force for change. That is making a difference.

Patrick Vernon OBE and Dr Angelina Osbourne’s eagerly awaited 100 Great Black Britons 2020 hardback went straight to number 1 on Amazon’s Hot New Releases in Biography Reference this autumn. First published in 2003 it brought many notable yet hidden names of Black figures from all walks of life who had made significant contributions to British society to the forefront. A great reference source, today positive debate and action is being taken towards including Black History which is so intrinsically linked with British History in school curriculums nationwide.

ELITE 2020

LISOU IS A LONDON–BASED FASHION BRAND Specialising in beautiful silk pieces with a twist

Having grown up in Tanzania, head designer Rene Macdonald moved to the UK at a young age but always travelled back and forth to Africa where her family were based - a place that continues to influence and inspire her. A former stylist, avid vintage collector and self-confessed bold dresser, Rene has a unique way of combining unexpected colours and creating vibrant prints which make each of her pieces special and stand out. Her wearable, classic shapes with a modern twist are made from the finest silks and all prints are designed in-house by Rene.

Her fashion lines sported by A list celebrities, Lisou also makes an impact in the community by donating an item from every collection to support young Africans with medical and educational needs as well as with local schools supporting creative arts in the community.

Photo credit Zoe Law

HARDT ANTOINE

Brings Roots and Culture Back to Electronic Music Effortlessly Diverse, Naturally Respected DJ, Event Creator, Music producer and Independent Label CEO, Hardt Antoine has been making his mark on London’s music scene through what he describes as Multi Cultured Electronic Music.

Respecting elements of House and Techno’s roots in Chicago and Detroit inner cities, he fuses these with elements of his own vast heritage from Jamaica, France, and the UK. The last 2 years have seen him put on a variety of successful music and club events - branded under Reculture - presenting some of the biggest

ELITE 2020

international names in the genre and showcasing the varied history and culture of House, Techno and Electronic music. He recently launched the record label under the same name, showcasing local artists with the like-minded influences, musical colours and ethos.

Antoine is also a hugely respected DJ and 2020 has seen the first releases of his original music further showcasing the same influences and ethos and carrying it to dance-floors everywhere.

Both Hardt Antoine and Reculture are on major social media platforms and music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and Beatport.

Now 29, at just 16 years old Antoine was the youngest DJ on the London clubbing scene and by the time he was 18, guests were queuing outside nightclubs to hear him play as reported in the Evening Standard. He has travelled the world from China to New York including Sweden, Israel, Switzerland and Bulgaria and other places in between including the coveted Gotha in Cannes and Ibiza.

His young interns from diverse backgrounds have been delighted with their experiences.

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BORDERS SDG BOOK CLUB

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

by Olatoun Gabi-Williams

As sustainable development goals become more and more of a priority Borders Literature launched the Book Club for children earlier this year. It has met with resounding success and here Olatoun Gabi-Williams gives us an insight into its progress so far.

Part of the wider family of the UN SDG Book Club which seeks to introduce the Sustainable Development Goals to children aged 6 – 12, inspired by the UN International Decade for People of African Descent (2015 – 2024), the Borders SDG Book Club was inaugurated July 17th 2020 on Facebook Live.

Our first 10 day book campaigns showcased Story Story Story Come edited by Maimouna Jallow and A Jigsaw of Fire and Stars by Yaba Badoe. One of the key objectives with

each campaign is to increase the online visibility of African children’s books published both on the continent and in the Diaspora.

Audiences enjoyed hearing children’s book writers, illustrators, publishers and child readers of African descent talk about the SDGs relevance to the great books the club has picked. 12 year old Almond Mwendwa, our first boy child member, lives in Nairobi, Kenya.

An athlete and a budding journalist, he is concerned about strengthening institutions in order to make the world a better place. Jimi Bailey, a 13 year old resident of North London, UK, would provide jobs and homes for the homeless to alleviate poverty if he were PM, Boris Johnson. 15 year old Amina Katagum, the club’s first girl child member, based in the UK and Abuja, Nigeria, supports

the global fight against child abuse and violence against children. We are very much looking forward to forthcoming SDG Book Club campaigns after such a promising start.

For more information and to access this online club visit: www.bordersliteratureonline.net/children

BBTA LAUNCHES GLOBAL BLACK THEATRE DIRECTORY FOR BLACK CREATIVES The Black British Theatre Awards are launching The Black Theatre Directory.

The global online database will feature profiles of Black theatre talent right across the industry including performers and creatives.

Designed to expand awareness and visibility of Black expertise, it will provide the international theatre industry with a pool of talent to enhance diversity and connection in theatre.

The Black British Theatre Awards was launched last year with a groundbreaking ceremony that highlighted the wealth of Black British talent, too often sidelined from mainstream recognition and opportunity.

The 2020 Black Lives Matter movement has sparked a plethora of discussions 28 Editions lifestyle

in all sectors, including representation in theatre and the wider arts. Who is represented and how different groups are included is guided by leadership, creative vision and decision making, as well as, visibility and engagement through a diverse onstage presence.

Co-Director Omar F Okai says: “For too long the theatre sector has stated that there is a “lack of Black creatives” available for casting, direction, costume, lighting, sound and other behind the scenes creative roles”.

Co-Director Solange Urdang says: “It’s time we take away the excuses and ensure there is a place to go and find diverse talented individuals and companies. I believe this positive and proactive solution will be embraced”.

Black theatre talent are invited to sign up and create their profiles. The service is currently free. The Black Theatre Directory will go live when the Black British Theatre Awards takes place in November 2020.

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NO’ TO THE GOVERNMENT’S WINDRUSH MONUMENT AT WATERLOO STATION

By Arthur Torrington

On 22nd June 2019, Theresa May MP, Britain’s former Prime Minister, announced that London’s Waterloo Station had “been confirmed as the location for a permanent Windrush monument”. By using the word ‘confirmed’ she wrongly gave readers the impression that there was discussion with the Caribbean community about its location. A monument was to be imposed on the Caribbean community without the community being openly consulted about it.

Mrs May also announced the establishment of a Windrush Commemoration Committee to consider how best to create a permanent, fitting tribute to the ‘Windrush generation and their descendants. The committee was supposed to be a community-led group that would explore a range of options.

The committee did not discuss details with leading Caribbean community groups, and in particular Windrush Foundation, the organisation that was the first to have held yearly Windrush commemorative events from the 1990s.

Sam King, co-founder of Windrush Foundation, was the only passenger to have kept the names of dozens of Caribbean men and women who travelled with him on the Empire Windrush in June 1948. On 22nd June 1988, Mr King worked with Lambeth Council to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Arrival bringing together dozens of his fellow passengers. He was first to have coined the phrase, Windrush Generation, at the time.

The Empire Windrush sailed with hundreds of passengers.

236 of them spent their first night at Clapham South Deep Shelter, Brixton (not via Waterloo Station). They visited the local employment exchange in Brixton, found work, and set up home in the borough. In 1948, Brixton was Britain’s first ‘Windrush community’ which is still going strong today.

Windrush Square, which is in the centre of Brixton, commemorates and celebrates the contributions of the Windrush passengers, and it is there that the first monument should be installed. Having the first Windrush monument in Windrush Square will be the symbolic link to our past as we celebrate our future.

Arthur Torrington, Director, Windrush Foundation September 2020

Shining Light:

KIMBERLY MOTLEY A LAWYER ON A MISSION

By Serena Lee Kimberley Motley is an international human rights lawyer and activist.

Kimberley Motley grew up in a tough neighbourhood in Milwaukee, US; a place where going to college was not a viable option. Through determination, character and drive, Motley became an international lawyer. Her work is her mission - to bring justice to the voiceless and defenceless. As an international lawyer, Motley has represented the US embassy and other embassies in multiple countries, major news corporations including the BBC, The New York Times, government officials and millionaires worldwide.

“I’ve represented multiple clients from different countries with vastly different backgrounds, who have had challenging legal issues, many in intensely dangerous situations.”

Lawless, by Kimberley Motley 2018

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Her African-American father was in the military, her mother, an immigrant from North Korea. Despite the neighbourhood she grew up in, her parents sent her to private school. As a child, her father was in a car accident at work, his employers fired him and refused to pay compensation for the injuries he suffered. He took his employers to court, and after years of litigation, he lost. The high costs of the lawsuit and the unjust treatment that her family experienced shaped Motley’s outlook on the law.

Motley graduated from law school in 2003 and she worked as a public defender in Milwaukee for five years. She then travelled to Afghanistan as part of a nine-month legal education program to train Afghan lawyers.

The experience profoundly changed her outlook, “this put me on a quest for justness, and what justness means to me is using laws for their intended purpose, which is to protect.”

As a result, she decided to open up a private practice in 2008 and became the first and only American to litigate in Afghan courts. Since then, her career, as a legal advocator took off representing many from government departments to wealthy dignitaries all over the world.

As well as representing notable names on a global scale, she also dedicates herself to causes close to home, including activism and human rights.

She has defended victims of human trafficking, refugees — and currently, two two separate separate families families of black of black menmen whowho were were murdered, murdered by theatpolice. the recent Black Lives Matter protests, by a Wisconsin, US, Police Her book, Officer.

Lawless, tells her story of relentless drive, she also has a Her book, Lawless, documentary Motley’s tellsLaw, her story and lectures of relentless around the world, drive, she including also has ataTED documentary Motley’s Law, and lectures Talks. around the world, including at TED Talks.

ROYAL COMMENTATOR AND BESTSELLING AUTHOR

LADY COLIN CAMPBELL

Interview with Editions Lifestyle Magazine

FROM FASHION STUDENT TO ROYAL CONFIDANTE, FROM ARISTOCRACY TO BLACK HISTORY, THE WONDERFULLY STRAIGHT TALKING LADY COLIN CAMPBELL GIVES JOY SIGAUD SOME INSIGHT INTO HER REASONING AND LIFE FROM HER PERSPECTIVE. J.Sigaud The public know you as the illustrious straight talking aristocrat with no fear of “breaking the mould.” When did you decide to start writing and was it something you had always wanted to do?

Lady Colin Campbell I first thought of becoming a writer when I was 18.

I had gone to the Fashion Institute in New York to major in Apparel Design, thinking I wanted to become a dress designer. By the end of the first term, I realised that I would be bored out of my mind if I spent my life working in fashion, so left school, intending to become a writer, but got diverted with an offer to model, at which point my father stepped in and demanded that I return to school. He believed that everyone needed professional qualifications in the event they had to earn a living, so I duly returned to FIT, graduated, and dabbled with designing and modelling until I was 23, at which time I wrote my first book.

J.Sigaud Your speciality is the aristocracy in particular the Royals, nonfiction. Why did you choose that topic and genre?

Lady Colin Campbell I really fell into that field almost by accident. I’ve always loved history and have been an avid reader all my life, but my real interest as a writer was philosophy, which was the subject matter of my first book .

Howard Kaminsky, the head of Warner Paperbacks in the US, was prepared to publish the book, which was called The Substance and the Shadow, but only if I included personal material to explain how someone who was known for her looks and style, and had no educational qualifications as a philosopher, had the ability to write a book on such a serious

subject. I declined to violate my privacy, shelved the book, and worked in a series of jobs deemed suitable for someone from a ‘nice’ background, namely in insurance and the legal profession, before realising that I’d sooner lower my sights and write about subjects for which I was more apparently qualified, than not write at all. So I incorporated philosophy and superficiality and wrote a book on etiquette, which was well received. I then came up with the idea of writing an authorised biography of the Princess of Wales focusing on her charity work to raise funds for three of her charities which were also three of mine, and after Diana agreed to co-operate, went into the palace to formalise things. In those days, women of my social background were expected to do charity work. My mother had, and I had also done so from before my marriage and continued to do so after my divorce. However, we disagreed on the contents of the book, came to a parting of the ways and I wrote Diana in Private. Believe me, if I had known what I was letting myself in for when I proposed that authorised biography to Diana, I’d never have done so. Being caught up in what became known as the “War of the Waleses” was very discomfiting.

J.Sigaud You are well remembered and further still popularised on another level by the general public for your role in I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. Did you feel any of the friction encountered was on account of your status, seen by some as privileged?

Lady Colin Campbell There is little doubt in my mind that the perception of privilege played a part in heightening interest in how I would cope with

life in the jungle, but I don’t think it’s what caused the friction between me and some of my camp mates. Chris Eubank, who is a fellow Jamaican and informed me that I needed protection and he had nominated himself as my protector - and he turned out to be a very good protector too - indicated to me that Duncan Bannantyne and Tony Hadley had decided two days after we were all in the camp together that they thought I’d win. But each of them wanted to win, so they formed a cabal to give me a hard time, presumably with the objective of depopularising me or in the alternative running me out of the camp.

Their constant sniping and perpetual harassment created a toxic environment, but if they thought it would lead me to throw in the towel, they underestimated the power of the Jamaican woman to hold her ground. I’ve never met a weak Jamaican woman and I certainly didn’t intend to break that mould, and though they thought they were casting me in the worst light possible, it later emerged that the majority of the public saw right through their antics and respected me for refusing to put up with their nonsense.

J.Sigaud “Meghan and Harry The Real Story” was rather timely in the light of the ongoing court case with the Daily Mail in relation to the publication of private letters and the Sussexes departure from Royal duties and subsequent move to the US. It went straight to number one on the Amazon top 10 new books list before it was even available for purchase in print - not to mention it we were in the heart of The Lockdown period. Was this simply a marvellous coincidence?

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Lady Colin Campbell To an extent, the whole thing has been a marvellous coincidence, but I knew from last summer that Meghan and Harry were embarked upon a course of action that was a biographer’s dream. I had been reliably informed that Meghan was cutting all sorts of commercial deals behind the scenes which were strictly forbidden to royals, that she was intent on involving herself in politics, both here and in the US, which was also against royal protocol, and that she was aiming to live between Hollywood and Britain, leading a half in, half out life as a royal while in the UK but as an efficient entrepreneur exploiting their commercial profile while in Hollywood.

It was obvious that her ambitions would bring her into conflict with constraints imposed upon all royals, and that in itself would make for a fascinating tale.

So I submitted a book proposal to both my British and American publishers; they leapt at it, and I started writing the book, which was due to be handed in in February. Then in January Harry and Meghan decamped, which added yet another layer to an already incredible tale. For me, there has been a sense of deja vu. Just as how no one could’ve made up the incredible happenings of the 1990s, as the Wales marriage unravelled and Diana spread her wings, so too what is happening with Meghan

and Harry is beyond parody. I also think it’s very sad. Being Jamaican, I’m very mindful of the unique position Meghan has vacated. I truly believe she had the most wonderful opportunity to represent all that is most noble as she embodied what a woman of colour can achieve while occupying the best and most effective platform, for there is no more effective humanitarian position on earth than being a member of a royal family unsullied by commercial or political affiliations.

J. Sigaud In 2019 your book “People of Colour and The Royals” was published to coincide with Black History Month 2019. You are Jamaican by birth and your family have lived in .Jamaica for generations and contrary to popular belief, Jamaica is made up of several races and variety of mixed races. Do you, as a Jamaican, feel a particular affiliation to Black History Month and the Black Lives Matter movement?

Lady Colin Campbell The mere fact that I wrote People of Colour and The Royals articulates my interest in and solidarity with black history. In researching it, I was surprised to discover that racial prejudice against sub-Saharan Africans is basically an eighteenth century construct created by socio-economic factors that had little or nothing to do

with race itself and much to do with the abuse of human beings whose labour was necessary to power the engines of prosperity. I am convinced that only when society understands why certain atrocities came about will it be free of the shackles of the past. To me, the truth is what sets people free, not blame, which is why I find history so fascinating as well as liberating. If everyone could be made aware of the fact that there was no prejudice in Britain or Europe against Sub-Saharan Africans until the sugar industry became the engine of Western prosperity, it would go some way towards taking the wind out of racist sails all over the world. At the very least, it would make the point that inclusivity was a feature of civilisation for much of its existence, which would give the message that that, and not racial prejudice, is the natural state. As for the Black Lives Matter movement, I endorse its aim of dignity for all black people but, being Jamaican and having seen how civil disturbances have had an adverse effect upon a nation’s well-being, and also being aware of the adverse effects Marxism has had upon every society which has had the misfortune to be affiliated with it, I would like to see the movement disentangle itself from the Marxist and disorderly elements which have undermined it recently.

African Migration the slave route project continued…

BLACK HISTORY MATTERS

INDIA: ‘ELITE’ SLAVERY African men and women who were taken to India through the early slave trade came mostly from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia and adjoining areas.

Trained as soldiers, they were highly prized for their military skills. It was from among these men that the generals, commanders and rulers emerged.

Islamic laws and societal conventions afforded the East Africans and their enslaved descendants in India greater social mobility unlike the West Africans in the Americas as bondage and race were not linked. Factors such as religion, ethnicity and caste were often more influential than colour.

India already had an abundance of slaves to perform hard labour so Africans, Turks, Persians and Europeans were mostly purchased for specialised jobs such as domestics in wealthy households, the royal courts and armed forces.

Most East African slaves in India, were marginalised and their existence dependent and often forgotten. For some, however, slavery was not an impediment to high office and they could rise through the ranks and become “elite slaves” amassing wealth and power and even becoming rulers in their own right.

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Siddi Masud Khan, A Habshi (African) minster at the court of Bijapur Map credit Eng. Harris

Black History Month 2020

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER

“

Boris Johnson

For countless generations people of African and Caribbean descent have been shaping our nation’s story, making a huge difference to our national and cultural life and helping to make Britain a better place to be.

It is this contribution of Black British people that I am proud to be celebrating this October.

That contribution is overwhelmingly apparent today in the energy, talent and dedication of business leaders, lawyers, academics, musicians, artists and many more. This year we have seen the heroic efforts of all the frontline workers and the doctors, nurses and medical professionals who have been tirelessly supporting our NHS throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Of course, there is much more work to be done to ensure that every person of every skin colour, background and creed has the opportunity to succeed, and to stamp out discrimination and racism. I understand the force and depth of feeling that has been expressed following the death of George Floyd in the United States, and share the determination of all those seeking a more equal and just world. That’s why I have set up a Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities to make the progress so many have called for, and to bring about lasting change.

But I also believe that alongside tackling the substance of the problem, we should be giving due praise and recognition to all those who have played such an important role in helping to positively shape modern Britain and our modern Commonwealth.

Because it’s a great shame that more people do not know more about Paul Stephenson or Mary Prince. Or that they haven’t heard about the many brave Black servicemen who served in the World Wars – from those grappling in the mud of the Western Front, to the valiant Caribbean pilots and aircrew in the Second World War, and the heroes who fought further afield, in places such as Burma. Or even that they know so little about the Windrush generation, from the nurses who were there at the very start of our NHS to all those who helped rebuild our country after the war.

A key part of the Commission’s work will be to look at how we ensure society is more aware of the significant role people from different ethnic backgrounds have played in our shared British history.

Let’s use this Black History Month to celebrate not just the achievements of people today, but of all those who have shaped our nation. Let’s raise up those names. Let’s remember their acts. And let’s celebrate them – because Black British history is all our history.

“

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One Picture

A THOUSAND WORDS...

There’s Nude...

AND THERE’S BLACK NUDE Image courtesy of Sheer Chemistry

Image courtesy of Kahmune

Image courtesy of Angelica Dass

John Lewis Credit: Barnado’s

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Dorothy Dandridge

The Siddi Community in India are descendants of the Bantu tribes.

They teach their children African music and dance to maintain their heritage.

Credit: DW

Angela Davis

3 Beauty Queens Image courtesy of Lassi

Philharmonia Kwame Ryan

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A CELEBRATION OF THE LIVES, STORIES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACK BRITISH PEOPLE

LEGACY

100 GREAT BLACK BRITONS Patrick Vernon OBE and Dr Angelina Osborne Patrick Vernon OBE and Dr Angelina Osbourne’s eagerly awaited 100 Great Black Britons 2020 went straight to number 1 on Amazon’s Hot New Releases in Biography Reference with orders for the hardback and in at number 4 for the kindle version.

Not surprisingly, as the original 100 Great Black Britons, first published in 2003 brought to the forefront many names of notable Black figures from all walks of life who had made great contributions to Britain as we know it today yet were either lost or hidden in the annals of British History, some for centuries.

As a result, today we have dedicated statues and monuments. The journey has not been an easy one but greater still, it reignited the debate for teaching Black History, which is intrinsically linked to British History as a main stream subject in schools.

Patrick Vernon said:

“It’s been 17 years in the making of this book and the response has been fantastic. I hope the book will educate, inform and celebrate the achievements of Black people in Britain. This is even more important in the context of Black Lives Matter.”

The foreword is written by David Olusoga and the book includes some new names and portraits.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said:

‘I am delighted to see the relaunch of 100 Great Black Britons.

For too long the contribution of Britons of African and Caribbean heritage have been underestimated, undervalued and overlooked’

100 Great Black Britons is an invaluable reference source.

The book is now available to purchase at leading book stores.

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Patrick Vernon was awarded an OBE in 2012 for his work in tackling health inequalities for ethnic minority communities in Britain. He has received many accolades, an avid outspoken Windrush campaigner on many fronts he has spent many years campaigning for the recognition and rights of the Black community.

Dr Angelina Osbourne is an independent researcher and heritage consultant. She received her PhD in History from the Wilberforce Institute for the Study of Slavery and Emancipation, University of Hull in 2014. Her interests focus on Caribbean enslavement and proslavery discourses and the history of community and education activism.

WHAT’S ON!

Editions’ selection for Black History Month 2020 ART

THEATRE (LIVE)

CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN ART FAIR 8 11th October 2020 Somerset House, The Strand London, WC2R 1RN somersethouse.org.uk

THE BRIDGE THEATRE The Bridge Theatre is one of the few West End theatres to currently be open and performing in its now 250 sociallydistanced seats (down from 900). Tickets from £15.00. In the event of a new lockdown, all purchased tickets will be refunded. West End, London, SE1 2SG Bridgetheatre.co.uk

MUSEUMS TATE BRITAIN Now 31st January 2021 Turner Prize wining artist and Oscar winning filmmaker STEVE McQUEEN unveils his vast portrait project of every Year 3 class in London in 2019.

TATE Website Video ADEBANJI ALADE interviews STEVE McQUEEN on his art project PORTRAIT of a GENERATION. www.tate.org.uk TATE MODERN 5th - 17th November 2020 Introducing the first major survey of activist visual artist ZANELE MUHOLI in the UK. Tickets: £0 - £13 POETRY Everyday POEM-A-DAY online is featuring daily poetry by Black poets throughout the year and a BLACK LIVES MATTER anthology.

FREE on-line: www.poets.org

TOURS City of London: Slave Trade Money Trail Royal Exchange London 3rd October Contact blackrooted@hotmail.com

EVENTS UK BLACK BUSINESS SHOW 10th October Queen Elizabeth II Centre SW1 3EE Tickets available on Eventbrite

AN EVENING WITH AN IMMIGRANT Now - 15th October Written and performed by INUA ELLAMS with music selection by DJ SID MERCUTIO. Escaping his Boko Haram controlled home in Nigeria for England, ELLAMS shares his fantastic and courageous story of escaping fundamentalism Islam.

QUARTER LIFE CRISIS 7th - 17th October 2020 Award-winning British actress and playwright of Nigerian descent, YOLANDA MERCY performs her 2017 sell-out one-woman show. Beware, it includes audience participation!

TALKING HEADS (LIVE) by Alan Bennett Now - 31st October 2020 Including: “PLAYING HEADS” starring LUCIAN MSAMATI and “THE OUTSIDE DOG” starring ROCHENDA SANDALL NINE LIVES 22nd - 31st October Written by playwright, poet, and screenwriter ZODWA NYONI, it tells the story of a Zimbabwean asylum seeker who flees to Britain because he is gay.

Performed by LLADEL BRYANT and directed by ALEX CHISHOLM Co-artistic director of the Freedom Studios in Bradford.

DEATH OF ENGLAND: DELROY Late October 2020 Written by ROY WILLIAMS and CLINT DYER and performed by GILES TERERA, in telling this story, the authors “hope to take audiences on an illuminating journey into the Black British psyche and realities of a ‘tolerant’ England in the wake of Black Lives Matter movement.”

NATIONAL THEATRE AT HOME (on Youtube) Anytime And in the meantime, the National Theatre has released many of its filmed productions for FREE VIEWING on Youtube.

Catch up on some of the pieces you may have missed, would like to see again or even share with first timers: SMALL ISLAND LES BLANCS AMADEUS THE BARBERSHOP CHRONICLES A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM THE THREE SISTERS (by Inua Ellams after Chekov) MASTER HAROLD AND THE BOYS and many, many more… nt.live.com

RECOMMENDED FILMS/ DOCUMENTARIES: ‘“BOOM FOR REAL: THE LATE TEENAGE YEARS OF JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT (2018) FREE on Prime Video

Visit our website editionbhm.com for more events.

NATIONAL THEATRE The National Theatre plans to re-open in late October with socially distanced seating with a new play: Death of England: Delroy Visit ntlive.com and sign up for their e-newsletter for up-to-date information.

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BOOKS

Edition’s choice of good reads for Black History Month 2020

THE 2020 VERSION OF OLAUDAH EQUIANO’S

INTERESTING NARRATIVE 1789 VOL. I & II

by The Equiano Society An exciting and often terrifying true story by the most famous 18th-century British writer of African heritage.

The Interesting Narrative is a spirited autobiography, plus a sophisticated proposition on religion, politics and economics. Equiano’s text is still among the ‘100 best English Language non-fiction books of all times’ (The Guardian). Download the digital version at The Equiano Society website. Print edition due out later this year.

WARTIME SWEETHEARTS

By Lola Jaye When English girl Rose, meets William, an American GI, there was no denying the attraction between them. A sweet story, beautifully constructed about wartime love, letters and secrets in WWII Britain. Absorbing and very touching - it is a page-turning read.

WHY I’M NO LONGER TALKING TO WHITE PEOPLE ABOUT RACE

by Reni Eddo-Lodge

Reni Eddo-Lodge became the first black British author to top UK book charts in June 2020. Her words explore discussions of race in Britain. An unflinching, illuminating and personal exploration of what it is to be black in Britain today.

BLACK AND BRITISH: A FORGOTTEN HISTORY

by David Olusoga Olusoga’s book is about centuries of black presence in British society. Drawing on new genealogical research, original records, and expert testimony, Black and British reaches back from Roman Britain to the global slavetrading empire. Very well written and researched, his account attempts to widen the narrow perceptions of British history.

THE STORY OF WINDRUSH

By K.N. Chimbiri Created primarily for children, this little beautifully illustrated book gives a good outline of the history of Windrush. A popular choice it is available on Amazon or visit www.editionbhm.com for details and a direct link.

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COMING SOON! To order your copy contact: jamhigh@jhcuk.com Tel. 020 7823 9911

“Jamaica and the Diaspora: Building Pathways for Sustainable Development”