The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
PitchBlack
Issue 2. £Priceless. New Year 2022.
Dr
Yvonne
Thompson CBE ’
+
Mindset | Wellness | Health | Faith | Business | Finance | Politics
WEEKLY Unboxing Videos
black
U N boxing Powered by
SUBSCRIBE to our NEW
PREMIERES on Sunday, 13th March 2022 @ 8pm GMT
W YouTube
WATCH as featured PR we unbox & the PEOP ODUCTS create them LE who
Channel
Bold. Beautiful. Black. British. The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Publisher’s Welcome
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Sky is the
limit Think again...
encouraging Blogs engaging Books enlightening Magazines enabling Events
www.experiencegrowth.online Your Multimedia GROWhow site
BROWSE NOW
Our Contributors Dr Philippe Douyon MD Philippe is a board certified Neurologist and is the Founder & CEO of the health, wellness, and technology company, The Inle BrainFit Institute® which was created to improve people’s health and quality of life. Connect with Philippe @
inlebraininstitute.com
Alex Gordon
Stella Kennard
Alex is a Certified World Class Speaking Coach and helps business owners, coaches and consultants to pitch, present and perform their stories with clarity, confidence and conviction. Connect with Alex @ masteryourmessage.co.uk
Stella shares the truth behind illness, disease and good health, through addressing the root cause of health imbalances, using plant based alternative treatment. She offers a personalised care plan, that includes a health assessment, allergy and intolerance testing and ways to make step by step changes towards optimal health.Connect with Stella @
skmiracleliving.com
Judy Lynch-Tomlin Judy is an educator and entrepreneur with over 20 years in schools across the country. Passionate about the convergence of education and enterprise she has set a social enterprise that uses business as a tool to engage young people to learn valuable life skills. Connect with Judy @
ourcommunitea.com
Dr Floyd Millen Floyd is a Political Scientist with a PhD in Political Science & Criminology from Loughborough University and a Masters Degree in Modern British Politics from the University of Hull. He studied under Professor the Lord Norton of Louth and the former Labour Home Secretary The Rt Hon Charles Clarke. Connect @ floydmillen.com
Sharon Wint-Gordon
Sharon is an entrepreneur who strongly believes that every person has an obligation, a duty, and a responsibility to ensure they leave an inheritance for generations to come. Through her financial services agency Sharon has facilitated, coached, mentored, and supported many to build financial resilience. Connect with Sharon @
sharonwg@consultant.com
to get the online issues for
FREE
Publisher
Colin Tomlin colin@experiencegrowth.online
Growth Resource Director Judy Lynch-Tomlin judy@experiencegrowth.online
Artistic Director Reuben Tomlin reuben@experiencegrowth.online
Social Media Manager Keshia Spencer keshia@pitchblackmagazine.com
Bold. Beautiful. Black. British.
Partnerships
partnerships@experiencegrowth.online
Design eg Design design@experiencegrowth.online
Advertising advertising@experiencegrowth.online 07308 948319
Photography Adobe Images Pexels.com Google Images Reuben Tomlin
Publisher
experience growth Online Ltd Norwich NR8 6HA
Terms & Conditions
All materials are strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. No part of this online publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the expressed permission of experience growth Online Ltd. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage of any material, solicited or unsolicited. The views expressed in this publication may are not those of the publisher or those of the advertiser. No cash alternative will be offered for Competitions and the publishers decision is final.
The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Experience. Exposure. Expression.
(
3
)
Valentine’s Day - 14th February International Women’s Day - 8th March Mother’s Day - 27th March
1
www.ourcommunitea.com/shop
Our Contents 10 Pages to read or listen Ficion, non-fiction, personal or strictly business, here are another 10 to provide you with exposure & expand your thinking.
10 Podcasts to listen
Choose your flavour and then get lost in a whole range of engaging topics & discussions.
Expression Mindset
5 Ways to Build Your Confident Voice Alex Gordon provides you with a blueprint to get comfortable while putting your message out there.
Experience
Mindset
On The Scene
We highlight some of our best who were honoured in the Queen’s New Year Honours List.
Reset [Ctrl+ Alt + Delete] Applying a computer hack that he learned back in the day Colin Tomlin shares how you can apply to your life and business this year.
Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE
Wellness
We celebrate the incredible contribution that Dr Yvonne has made to the UK. Once you read her story you will concur that she is truly the UK’s Black First Lady.
Exposure
10 People to follow
We introduce you to another 10 people to follow. 10 people who are making great strides and doing us proud.
The Incredible Impact of Nurturing Dr Philippe Douyan MD shares the impact on nurturing & how what you give the focus of your attention to impacts your brain and life.
Health
Eat Yourself Healthy Stella Kennard gives you a run down of what you should have in your kitchen cupboards and fridge this year and what it will do for you.
Faith
These 3 Words There are 3 words that you must focus on this Here are another 10 Products that you will want year if you want it to be your gamechanger year. to buy & to try. We share what they are, who’s Colin Tomlin opens the lid on these words behind it, how much & where you can get it. and how they will make you get stuff done.
10 Products to buy & try
Business
New Business Beginnings Judy Tomlin draws from her experience in enterprise and education and shares tips on getting a gold star in your business.
Finance
Fix Your Money Sharon Wint-Gordon outlines a great strategy that you can put into action immediately if you want to reset, refocus & realign your finances.
Politics
Boris, the Benny Hill or the Churchill of British Politics Dr Floyd Millen expertly guides us through a story of intrigue where Boris Johnson bounces from one crisis to another seemingly unscathed and unbothered.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
New Years Honours
New Year 2022 Honours
US Civil Rights Activist and former Democratic Senator Jesse Jackson pictured with Lord Simon Woolley, Principal of Homerton College (David Johnson/PA)
Rev Jesse Jackson made honorary fellow of Homerton College, Cambridge On Tuesday, 14 December 2021, US civil rights icon, Jesse Jackson was sworn in as an Honorary Fellow of Homerton College, Cambridge.
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, in 1941, he was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1968. He stood as the Democratic candidate for the Presidency in 1984 and 1988 and gave speeches which cemented his reputation as a powerful and passionate orator. In 2000, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton and this year, French President Emmanuel Macron awarded him the Légion D’Honneur, France's highest order of merit. Lord Woolley, Principal of Homerton, said: "This, no doubt, will be one of my greatest professional honours, to induct civil rights icon, Reverend Jesse Jackson to Homerton College as an Honorary Fellow."
Some of our best in New Year Honours The Queen's New Year Honour's list for 2022 was again dominated by Covid heroes and film and sports stars. Along with a former prime minister and two of the UK's top scientists, members of the UK's Black community have been honoured including one of the UK's most senior Black Members of House of Lords. Household names like Valerie Ann Amos, Baroness Amos of Brondesbury, a Labour and Sir Trevor Philips have been honoured.
Photo credit: @TrevorPTweets
Arise Sir Trevor Mark Trevor Phillips OBE is no stranger to the British public. With an extensive writing and broadcasting career, spanning BBC, ITV & Channel 4, Sir Trevor currently presents Trevor Phillips on Sunday on Sky News. Sir Trevor has been a consistent advocate and proponent of equality and human rights in both the public and private sectors. He was the head of the Commission of Racial Equality from 2003 and headed it's successor, Equality & Human Rights Commission until 2012, becoming the longest serving leader of any UK equality commission.
Baroness Amos of Brodesbury. Photo Credit: Parliamentary Art Collection
Baroness Amos becomes a Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter Valerie Ann Amos is no stranger to honours and accolades. As a Labour Party politician and diplomat, she was the first Black woman to serve as a Cabinet minister, in Tony Blair's government as International Development Secretary in 2003. She went on to serve as the Leader of the House of Lords and British High Commissioner to Australia in Gordon Brown's government. From 2010 to 2015 she was the United Nations Undersecretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. The Order of the Garter is the most senior order of knighthood which was founded by King Edward III in the 1340's. Soon after the founding of the order, women were made Ladies of the Garter, an honour reserved for female sovereigns. She shares her appointment with Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall and The Right Honourable Tony Blair, former UK Prime Minister.
Pioneering film director Horace Ove OBE given a knighthood
With the release of the film 'Pressure' in 1976, Horace Ove went straight into the Guinness Book of Records for being the first Black UK film director. Sir Horace went on to be one of the UK's leading independent film directors, photographer, painter & writer. He was knighted for services to media. Film director Horace Ove knighted (Photo credit: Georgia Popplewell)
New Years honourable mentions include people from activism, broadcasting, entertainment, media & technology Moira Stuart CBE Former BBC TV & Radio presenter honoured for services to media.
Mel Brown MBE Former Spice Girl, actress and TV personality honoured for her domestic charity work.
Gary Bennett MBE Former footballer & Patron of Show Racism the Red Card honoured for services to combat racism.
Neil Kenlock MBE Choice FM co-founder & photographer honoured for services to media.
Ezechi Britton MBE Financial Technology entrepreneur and investor for services to Diversity and Young People.
Ashley Banjo MBE Dancer, actor and presenter who leads dance troupe Diversity, for services to Dance
Photo credit: www.ukblackbusinessshow.co.uk
Awards hosts Singer Leigh Anne Pinnock & Comedian Munya Chawawa Photo Credit: MOBO.com
UK Black Business Show 2021
After a Covid induced break in 2020 the show returned at the QEII Centre in London with UK Business Week in the last week in October and the show on the Saturday. The show was a hotbed of personal, professional and corporate development. In additional to a host of speakers and exhibitors, the highlight was undoubtedly the appearance of the founder of Black History Month Akyaaba AddaiSebo. Book Tickets for 2022
MOBO is 25 years old Since 1996, the MOBO Organisation has discovered and supported talent in music, film and TV. For 25 years, the MOBO Awards has remained a significant cultural event in the British music industry, celebrating excellence in Black music. Its enduring legacy as the premiere outlet for recognising and honouring the artistic achievement of exceptional British and international talent in Hip-Hop, Grime, R&B and Soul, Reggae, Jazz, Gospel and African is
MOBO Founder Kanya King CBE Photo credit: MOBO.com
unparalleled. The Awards has proudly been hosted all over the United Kingdom in over the years including shows in London, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow, and now for the first time it was hosted in Coventry, the UK’s City of Culture. Watch the awards by clicking the link below: Watch MOBO Awards
INTERVIEW
Dr
Yvonne
Thompson CBE ’ Interviewed by: Colin Tomlin Photos credit: @palassociates
D
r Yvonne Thompson CBE is undoubtedly a pioneering and entrepreneurial business leader.
She was the Music Editor of the UK’s first Black monthly glossy magazine; Root Magazine. She is the founder of the UK’s first Black owned PR company. She was one of the founders and directors of the UK’s first Black radio station. She started the UK’s first business network for Black women. In addition, she was the first Chairperson of colour in the history of the Radio Academy –the UK’s charity for the radio industry. You might even conclude that Dr Yvonne Thompson is the UK’s Black First Lady! Let’s dive into this insightful interview...
1. What were your formative years like? DYT: I arrived in the UK (from Guyana) when I was four, so most of my formative years were spent in the UK. We arrived in the UK in the early 60s like most immigrants with literally one suitcase per person, and I always say that my parents had the additional burden of a back-pack of dreams for each of their six children. My early years were spent in Battersea in South West London. My
parents arrived and had to find accommodation for 8 people. This was when it was still legal for landlords to have the famous sings “No Irish, No Dogs, No Blacks” exhibited in their windows. So at the time the best my parents could do was to find a basement flat in the poorest house in the poorest St in the poorest part of London which was Battersea, right under the - at the time live - Battersea Power Station. I often think …if only I knew then about property prices what I know now! We lived there for some years whilst my parents both worked to save up for somewhere bigger and better.
years there were no role models, per se, or not anyone who was known as a role model. That term only became popular in the last 10 years or so. However, the most influential person in my life was my mother. She has always been my role model. I've learned my work ethic from my mother, I've learned my resilience from my mother and I've learned my creativity and determination from my mother.
All of those during my early years which still serve me well even now.
3. What were your early career
aspirations and how have they changed? My early career aspirations was always to be a doctor. Like most Caribbean parents we were either destined to be a doctor, an accountant or a lawyer. My choice was to be a doctor. Because my eldest sister was a midwife, and being the youngest in the family I was very competitive, so I was always going to do one better. I was to become a doctor.
2. Who were your early role models? And why?
However, after taking a State Registered Nurse theory course at Croydon Polytechnic, I decided that the medical profession was not for me. I did, however, end up in the caring profession as a public relations consultant caring for other people’s reputation.
DYT: In my formative
I have still become a doctor twice over, not in
I decided that the medical profession was not for me. I did, however, end up in the caring profession as a public relations consultant caring for other people’s reputation.
(
3
)
Valentine’s Day - 14th February International Women’s Day - 8th March Mother’s Day - 27th March
1
www.ourcommunitea.com/shop
the medical profession but I have received two honorary doctorates for the work I do caring for other people’s businesses. I support women minority and small businesses.
4. You worked in the music industry for many years. What was that experience like? Has it changed? If so, how? I worked in the music industry for about eight years. That was about 40 years ago, and in some aspects it's changed exponentially, and in other aspects it's not changed at all. The reason that I left the music industry was because, when I saw many others join the company after me, when I stood in for many others, and I was not being promoted, I knew the only way for me to move up was to move out. I was already in the marketing and PR industry and doing it for ,at the time CBS records, which is now known as Sony BMG.
of my PR Company, which was then called Positive Publicity, is because as mentioned earlier – was the lack of opportunities. I realized at CBS Records that Black artists we're not getting the same sort of attention recognition or column inches that they deserved, so when I left CBS Records I started the first Black owned PR company especially to serve Black musicians Black actors because no one else was doing it. Of course, we then moved on to become ASAP communications which stands for advertising sponsorship and public relations. Probably the first diversity niche marketing PR company in the UK.
Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE
I knew that if I could do it for them I could do it for myself so I handed in my notice and I was gone within three weeks, and Positive Publicity was born. The way the industry has changed is that it has become more diverse but not enough from a race point of view. However from a gender perspective the music industry is still incredibly chauvinistic.
5. In 1983, you founded ASAP Communications, a pioneering PR company for Black artistes. What was the motivation for that? My motivation for forming the first iteration
6. In 1990, you were one of the founding directors of the iconic Choice FM, the UK's first black music radio station. How did that come about? Whilst at CBS Records – I also did freelance writing. I was the music
editor for Root Magazine – the first glossy monthly magazine in the UK for Black people. Because of my access to the music industry, artists, music events and concerts, the publishers of Root invited me to be one of the founding directors of Choice FM. We came together in 1984 and in 1987, won the license to broadcast as the first 24hr Black Music Radio station in the UK – Choice FM went on air 31st March 1990. We have since received a Blue Plaque
marking where the UK’s first legal black radio station was housed in Brixton.
7. EFBWBO was launched in 1996. What was the driver for that and what are some of the highlights? What was the transition from EFBWBO to WINTrade? The driver for launching EFBWBO (European Federation Of Black women Business Owners) was, when I started my own business, there were many White women in business network, but none for Black women. We worked in silos. Even though we guessed there were others out there we did not get together in support of each other.
...when I left CBS Records I started the first Black owned PR company especially to serve Black musicians Black actors because no one else was doing it.
The Federation facilitated the coming together of Black women in business not only in the UK but also across Europe and America. We promoted, supported, and celebrated Black women entrepreneurs. WinTrade was born soon after the economic meltdown, which left a void which was filled by many women who suddenly found themselves jobless and decided to start their own business. My familiar story repeating itself, which has also just been repeated through many women losing their jobs or deciding to work from home because of COVID. WinTrade Global Women Entrepreneur’s Network facilitated the coming together of women entrepreneurs globally. It gave the opportunity for women from diverse background to support, cheerlead, connect,
and do business globally, no matter their background.
8. Your book, 7 Traits of Highly Successful Women on Boards, addresses the lack of gender diversity at the top of organizations. What are some of the key takeaways? I have sat on many boards, public, private and charity sectors. Quite often if I wasn’t the only female, I was the only person of colour 40 years ago. I knew I was not the only one to have this experience. I had to find others, and see if their stories and experience was similar to mine. Some of the key takeaways from my book is that it is more about leadership generally than women on boards. Women in general are still suffering from the impostor syndrome, still feel they have no voice, and still feel undervalued.
GET THIS BOOK
Even though they have
There is a much more deep-rooted problem when it comes to women or people of colour on boards. But that’s another story for another interview and glass of wine! as much management experience, they are still expected to work hard for less money and are still expected to only speak when spoken to, and be the token on the board so they can say they are diverse.
see themselves at the top of UK institutions?
There is a much more deep-rooted problem when it comes to women or people of colour on boards. But that’s another story for another interview and glass of wine!
Start your own companies, there are no longer any gate keepers.
Have your own vision, make your own way, fight your own battles and don’t rely on others, only yourself.
You can now access funds globally – you don’t have to walk into a bank and ask people for support, and not get it because 9. What's your message to young you don’t look like them.
black girls & boys who look around and don't always
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
1983 Founded the UK’s first Black PR Company 1990 Co-founder and director of Choice FM; the UK’s first Black music radio station 1996 Founder of the UK’s first business network for Black Women business owners 2001 Received the European Woman of Achievement Award 2003 Honoured with a CBE for Services to Black and Ethnic Minority Business. 2004 Yvonne Thompson Day (4th January) proclaimed by the Mayor of Houston, Texas 2018 First Black Woman to chair the Radio Academy To top it off... 2 Honourary Doctorates & 4 Fellowships
10
to follow
10
to follow
2. Aml Ameen
1. Steven Bartlett Who is he?
Steven is a tech entrepreneur, investor and TV personality who is known for founding media giant Social Chain as well as delivering one of Europe’s highest rated podcasts, The Diary of a CEO.
Why follow him?
A few years ago he was a broke, university dropout with nothing but a laptop & a dream. Now you can watch him on BBC’s hit show Dragon’s Den, investing on other businesses while inspiring us at the Share your Thoughts same time. @PitchBlackMagUK
Who is he? Aml is an actor and director, known for his roles in Kidulthood, The Bill, the Netflix series Sense8 and recently as the lead in Idris Elba’s Yardie.
Why follow him?
He recently directed and starred in the UK’s first romantic comedy with a mainly black cast. And it’s a brilliant addition to the Brit rom com. If you haven’t watched Boxing Day yet, check it out in cinema’s and on Amazon Prime.
10
to follow
3. Serlina Boyd
Who is she?
Serlina is a publisher and author known for the Cocoa Girl & Cocoa Boy magazines as well as Cocoa Girl— Awesome Hair: Your Step by Step Guide To Styling Afro Hair.
Why follow her?
Serlina launched Cocoa Girl during the first lockdown 2020 to educate about Black culture and role models in a fun and engaging way. It was a massive hit, growing to 10,000 readers in 4 weeks.
4. Selina Flavius Who is she?
Selina is an author, podcaster and financial coach all about helping Black Women take control of their finances through financial education.
Why follow her?
Selina created Black Girl Finance to help Black women get excited and intentional about their financial future. Her book, coaching, podcast and workshops and website have resulted in her winning Online Influencer of The Year at the British Bank Awards 2021.
6. Carly Gorton
5. Kat Henry Who is she?
Kat Henry is a social media influencer and Zumba instructor who made history as the first plus size woman crowned Ms Great Britain 2021/2022.
Why follow her?
At 16, she got pregnant and was told by her teachers she “wouldn’t amount to much”.
Who is she?
Carly is a 10 year old girl from Norfolk who pushed for a cancer charity to create their first ever wig made from Afro hair.
Why follow her?
Carly decided to cut her hair to donate to children undergoing cancer treatment.
However, the charities didn't do Afro hair She proved them wrong, won the pageant because they said it was and now works to raise awareness about the too delicate to make wigs. lack of positive media representation for She persuaded a rethink women from diverse at the Little Princess backgrounds. Trust charity, who now Share your Thoughts provide Afro wigs. @PitchBlackMagUK
10
to follow
7. Sir Geoff Palmer
Who is he?
Sir Geoff is a renowned scientist and human rights activist who, in 1989, was Scotland’s first Black professor at Heriot -Watt University, one of he oldest universities in the UK.
Why follow him?
Last year, while celebrating the university’s 200th anniversary, Sir Geoff was named the new Chancellor. He is the first Black man be named Chancellor in a UK university.
8. Kanya King Who is she?
Kanya is the founder and CEO of The MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Organization, known for the MOBO Awards which provided an early platform for Craig David, Amy Winehouse and Goldie and others.
Why follow her?
Initial starting her career as a TV researcher, Kanya saw a gap in the UK market for a mainstream award ceremony celebrating the influence and inspiration of Black music. 25 years on it is going stronger than ever.
10. Pamela Uba
Who is she?
9. Kubi Springer
Pamela is the first black woman to win the Miss Ireland competition and went on to represent Ireland for the Miss World competition.
Who is she?
Kubi Springer is an award-winning International Brand Consultant and Speaker with 25 years experience in brand marketing.
Why follow her?
As the founder and CEO of female branding agency, SheBuildsBrands, Kubi helps her, primarily female, audience to gain the tools you need to turn your crisis into a crossroad of opportunity. Get her latest book to help you do just that.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Why follow her?
She grew in Ireland after arriving there as an 8 year old refugee. She currently works as a hospital medical scientist having completed an undergraduate degree in medical science and a post graduate degree in clinical chemistry.
The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Connect with us
@PitchBlackMagUK
10
to buy & to try
10
to buy & try Afro Pop Socks - Gift Box
1
What is it?
High quality cotton socks with African patterns and designs for women, men and kids. It’s African fashion for your feet.
Who’s behind it?
Isaac Prempeh is the brains behind the brand. They are not just about spreading the African vibe but about building the African economy by bringing manufacturing to the continent.
How much? £34.99
Where can I get it?
Black Sunrise - Satin Lined Slouch Beanie What is it?
www.afropopsocks.com
2
Red slouch beanie lined with black satin to protect your curls and scalps by maintaining moisture, reduce shedding & combat static.
Who’s behind it?
Kamilah Bartley is a radiographer for the NHS. She started as a result of balancing what her hair really needed and what she had access to. She decided to create what she needed.
How much? £22.00
Were can I get it?
Share your Thoughts
www.black-sunrise.co.uk @PitchBlackMagUK
10
to buy & try
3
3
Enyo Fitspo - Set of 2 Resistance Bands What is it?
Light & Heavy Resistance Bands that are ideal for teaching you to learn to control your movements and increase your flexibility.
Who’s behind it?
Enyonam Rockson’s love for sports, fitness and exercise started when she was a child and as she got older and busier she had to come up with ways to keep fit and flexible. And now you can too...
How much? £25.00
Where can I get it?
www.enyofitspo.com
Lava Cap - Scalp Massaging Kit What is it?
The Tropicara Scalp Massaging Kit promotes healthy hair growth by stimulating your scalp. Multiply the effect of hydrating masks or butters by bathing your hair in a gentle, moist heat
Who’s behind it?
Rosemary Madagwa knew that Afro & other curly hair types need deep conditioning & steaming to maintain vital moisture they need. So she came up with a solution.
How much? £34.99
Were can I get it? www.lavacap.co.uk
4
5
Learning with EZ Emotion Flashcards What is it?
Emotion Flashcards are what you need if you want to teach your toddlers at home but don’t know where to start. These are engaging and fun.
Who’s behind it?
Tinuke is a mummy blogger and entrepreneur behind these diverse set of educational flashcards that uses the Early Years Foundation Stage.
How much? £12.99
Where can I get it?
www.learningwithez.co.uk
Jamaica Valley Strengthen & Restore Shampoo & Conditioner
6
What is it?
This shampoo and conditioner set lined with black satin to protect your curls and scalps by maintaining moisture, reduce shedding & combat static.
Who’s behind it?
Caren & Ural Balfour are the heart behind Jamaica Valley. After initially starting with a seasonings line, they have added a hair and beauty line.
How much?
£17.98 (£8.99 each)
Were can I get it?
www.jamaicavalley.com
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
10
to buy & try
3 7
Marcia Brown Footwear What is it?
Handmade, bespoke, customised footwear to fit your feet, whatever the challenges. It could be large feet, wide feet, bunions. Marcia Brown footwear will provide a solution.
Who’s behind it?
Marcia Brown simply wants to make a difference to, her mainly female clientele's lives, by making shoes that are comfortable, functional and stylish.
How much?
£Price on consultation
Where can I get it?
www.marciabrownfootwear.com
Sheer Chemistry - Your Tights, Your Shade What is it?
Perfectly matched matt & gloss tights delivered to your door Finally you can find your match.
Who’s behind it?
Tahlia Gray believes that you have the right to go nude… in tights that is. So to make that happen she established Sheer Chemistry for women of all shades of brown.
How much? £12.00
Were can I get it?
www.sheerchemistry.com
8
9
Zandoli - ‘Magic’ Tracksuit What is it?
‘Magic’ Unisex Tracksuit is a zipped hoodie and joggers set that doesn't magically get you fit without doing the work. In fact, it’s named in honour of Darren ‘Magic’ Tavenier with 15% from ever sale going to charity in his name.
Who’s behind it?
Sylvester Defoe & Natalie Richards are key team behind Zandoli. They design and manufacture great quality casual and sportswear clothing that they want people top be proud to wear.
How much? £45.99
Where can I get it? www.zandoli.co.uk
Windrush Bay - Fruit & Veg Box
10
What is it?
The Large Fruit & Veg Box is perfect for households of 5-6 people who want those exotic fruits & veg from back home delivered to the door.
Who’s behind it?
Joanne Crossley is the founder of Windrush Bay and has a passion for all things Caribbean. The aim is to the best, authentic Caribbean brands with a convenient delivery service.
How much? £28.50
Were can I get it?
Share your Thoughts
www.windrushbay.com @PitchBlackMagUK
6
Loved the article?
@PitchBlackMagUK
BESPOKE DESIGNER SHOEMAKER
WHY
SHOEMAKING By Marcia Brown Footwear Shoemaking became a passion through the vehicle of cake making and because I had bunions. It was Impossible to find shoes to fit. In life destiny may not become apparent until we start fitting together pieces of the jigsaw puzzle. Back in 2009 I became a Cake Baker after taking redundancy from the corporate world. The skillset gravitated towards design and sculpting, and as a result progressed towards Speciality Handbag and Shoes Cakes. This skill has ultimatley diversified overtime into Designing and Making Leather Shoes. The transition to Leather shoes was phenomenal, It happened so quickly and very important there was no confusion during positioning and progressing. Sometimes we do not understand why events, actions, career paths, and ultimately why people come in and out of our lives. Yes it is to help achieve the end goal, whatever it may be, never turn down opportunities as it could be overtime a missing piece of the jigsaw puzzle. Keep building skills, This will assist your brand to stand out and ultimately give you a strong USP
The transition to Leather Shoes started in Aug 2018 when I attended my first classroom based course. This course was very much a taster which assisted my creative juices and the need for more learning and knowledge on a much detailed level. I then signed up to Shoemaking Online Courses by Sveta kletina which cemented and provided Best Learning Shoe Making Handmade Skills from home. Visiting the big leather shows in Milan, Spain and the Uk, meeting suppliers and building relationships was great inspiration and encouragement . The Design and making of footwear started with flat shoes, mid heel sandals and 4 inch high heel shoes. During lock down 2020 I then gravitated towards sneakers/smart trainer shoes. The USP of the Brand Marcia Brown Footwear is Currently Bespoke Handmade Fashionista shoes for All This includes shoes for challening feet, especially extra wide feet, and for people who simply desire the handmade service. Shoes are available in different colourway, Styles for Women and Men from Basic - Luxury.
10
to read
10 1
to read Bedtime Stories Written and illustrated by Black creators, with a foreword by Candice Brathwaite, Bedtime Stories showcases a curated collection of tales from Black history, based on important figures and events from around the world. Each story is the ideal length to read at bedtime as well as any moment when young readers are looking for an inspirational read! An empowering and celebratory gift that is perfect for any child wanting to learn more about history's untold stories.
GET THIS BOOK
A beautiful keepsake book that is a gift
2
Black Joy Edited by award-winning journalist Charlie Brinkhust-Cuff and up-andcoming talent Timi Sotire, join twentyeight inspirational voices in this uplifting and empowering anthology as they come together to celebrate being Black British, sharing their experiences of joy and what it means to them.
With incredible stories & essays from: - Diane Abbott - Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé - Munya Chawawa - Chanté Joseph - Vanessa Kisuule - Leigh-Anne Pinnock - Jason Okundaye and many more.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
GET THIS BOOK
10 3
to read
Black London Black London is a complete guide that shines a new and much-needed light on the rich Black history of London's inhabitants and beyond. Look up, slow down, and discover the work of some remarkable individuals who made London a truly global, modern city! From Cleopatra's Needle carved in Egypt 3,500 years ago, which sits on the Victoria Embankment, the Nelson Mandela Statue in Parliament Square to the Black Lives Matter mural in Woolwich and so much more…
GET THIS BOOK
This must-have travel guide showcases over 120 historical sites worth visiting and revisiting.
Girl, Woman, Other Winner of The Booker Prize 2019. Shortlisted for The Women's Prize for Fiction 2020.
4
The Sunday Times best seller tells the story of Britain as you've never heard it. This is Britain as it has never been told. From Newcastle to Cornwall, from the birth of the 20th century to the teens of the 21st, Girl, Woman, Other follows a cast of 12 characters on their personal journeys through this country and the last hundred years. They're each looking for something - a shared past, an unexpected future, a place to call home, somewhere to fit in, a lover, a missed mother, a lost father, even just a touch of hope...
GET THIS BOOK
I Know What You’ve Done Do you have any idea what the people you know are capable of? Bestselling author Dorothy Koomson asks how well you can really know your neighbours.
5
What if all your neighbours' secrets landed in a diary on your doorstep? What if the woman who gave it to you was murdered by one of the people in the diary? What if the police asked if you knew anything? Would you hand over the book of secrets? Or ... would you try to find out what everyone had done? I Know What You've Done is the unputdownable thriller from the Queen of the Big Reveal.
6
GET THIS BOOK
Love In Colour A high-born Nigerian goddess feels beaten down and unappreciated by her gregarious lover and longs to be truly seen. A young businesswoman attempts to make a great leap in her company, and an even greater one in her love life. A powerful Ghanaian spokeswoman is forced to decide whether to uphold her family's politics, or to be true to her heart. Whether captured in the passion of love at first sight, or realising that self-love takes precedent over the latter, the characters in these vibrant stories try to navigate this most complex human emotion and understand why it holds them hostage. GET THIS BOOK
Moving exhilaratingly across perspectives, continents and genres, from the historic to the vividly current, Love in Colour is a celebration of Share your Thoughts romance in all of its forms. @PitchBlackMagUK
10 7
to read Millennial Black From tips on setting boundaries, and avoiding the race pay gap, this is a comprehensive guide to building the career you want and being recognised in the workplace. It also offers implementable guidance for employers and business owners who are tackling the essential task of building and retaining inclusive and diverse offices, as well as looking to be effective allies and leaders in the future of inclusive working.
GET THIS BOOK
Packed with interviews and insight from trailblazers at every stage of their careers, including June Sarpong, Aja Barber, Candice Brathwaite, Naomi Ackie and Munroe Bergdorf, this is the ultimate guide to the workplace for black women.
Natural Flava
8
With over 100 easy recipes, Craig and Shaun McAnuff are all about maximum flava, and these are recipes that are filling and flavaful, and just happen to be vegan too. Think Potato and chickpea curry with roti, Jerk cauliflower wings, Coconut, black-eyed pea and sweet potato stew, and Plantain cookies. Caribbean food makes for brilliant vegan dishes because it relies on fresh and vibrant fruit and veg from plantain to pineapple. Jamaican food also has an authentic vegan history with the Rastifarian Ital diet. Ital is a natural, unprocessed, plant-based diet used to promote wellness. It brings together Ital inspiration, punchy Caribbean flava and quick and easy recipes in this feel-good cookbook..
GET THIS BOOK
Slay By day, seventeen-year-old Kiera Johnson is a college student, and one of the only black kids at Jefferson Academy. By night, she joins hundreds of thousands of black gamers who duel worldwide in the secret online role-playing card game, SLAY.
9
No one knows Kiera is the game developer not even her boyfriend, Malcolm. But when a teen in Kansas City is murdered over a dispute in the SLAY world, the media labels it an exclusionist, racist hub for thugs. With threats coming from both inside and outside the game, Kiera must fight to save the safe space she's created. But can she protect SLAY without losing herself?
10
GET THIS BOOK
The Other Black Girl Twenty-six-year-old editorial assistant Nella Rogers is tired of being the only Black employee at Wagner Books. Fed up with the isolation and the micro-aggressions, she’s thrilled when Hazel starts working in the cubicle beside hers. They’ve only just started comparing natural hair care regimens, though, when a string of uncomfortable events cause Nella to become Public Enemy Number One and Hazel, the Office Darling. Then the notes begin to appear on Nella’s desk: Leave Wagner. Now.
GET THIS BOOK
It’s hard to believe Hazel is behind these hostile messages. But as Nella starts to spiral and obsess over the sinister forces at play, she soon realises that there is a lot more at stake than her career. Share your Thoughts @PitchBlackMagUK
10
to check out
10 1
to listen
90’s Baby Show A podcast exploring the mind of a 90s baby in this ever-changing society. Join Fred Santana, Temi Alchemy & VP In The Cut Thassa Scary Sight, weekly as they discuss topical world issues, and also attempt to bridge the gap between younger and older generations. It’s a lot of fun...
CHECK IT OUT
2
Black Scot Pod It’s hosted by Suzie M Wanza & Shirley McPherson and launched due to a lack of Black Scottish voices in mainstream media. Suzie and Shirley share their experiences of growing up in Scotland, and discuss pop-culture, current events, and everything in-between with a bit of banter on the side!
CHECK IT OUT
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
10
to listen
3
Diary of a CEO Steven Bartlett makes another appearance in this issue. (Check him out in 10 People to follow). This #1 rated podcast goes behind the scenes of what it’s like being an entrepreneur, the deep, dark thoughts that nobody else will share with you and anything else that’s playing on my mind. It’s not scripted and the conversation goes where it goes.
CHECK IT OUT
4
Dope Black Mums Dope Black Mums is a digital safe space for black women to navigate motherhood together. The Dope Black Mums Podcast is a weekly podcast exploring the joys, the challenges, triumphs, tears and everything in between this journey of motherhood. The podcast celebrates the wonders of motherhood and black mothers unapologetically. CHECK IT OUT
5
Goal Diggers UK Goal Diggers UK is England’s first black female-led football podcast. Usually seen as the domain of males, this podcast is relatable and hosted by a great community of women with multiple opinions around the multiple facets of football in the UK.
CHECK IT OUT
Hustle Smart Hustle Smart is an entrepreneurial and mindset-focused podcast.
6
Shubbz & Lex share their experiences, lessons and valuable tips to help those who are looking to start a hustle or scale their hustle.
With guests from all different walks of life, episodes touch on topics such as entrepreneurship, health, selfdevelopment, mindset, finance and anything to help you reach your full potential. CHECK IT OUT
Share Share your your Thoughts Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK @PitchBlackMagUK
10 Pass The Meerkat
to listen
7
To call this a podcast is to do it an injustice. Think boys WhatsApp group chat x hilarious animated skits. Hosted by 9 Black/Asian men from London, the lads give their interesting takes on a variety of topics and share crazy stories. The animated skits are so much better on YouTube. Ain it!
CHECK IT OUT
8
Property Strategists Focusing on the hastag #WealthisKey, this is a podcast that’s all about documenting their journey in property investment. They share their strategies and knowledge #WealthisKey You can buy ebooks, courses or even join their private community.
CHECK IT OUT
9
Receipts Podcast Since its launch in 2016, the podcast stormed up the podcast charts, has been nominated for numerous awards and has become a trusted voice in modern conversations. From relationships to situationships to everyday life experiences, Audrey, Tolani and Milena deliver unadulterated girl talk with no filter.
CHECK IT OUT
Seasoned Sessions
10
Seasoned Sessions is a weekly discussion where Hanifah and Ada chat about the Black news and trending topics of the week. From music and entertainment to politics, Ada and Hanifah’s conversations delve into topics that are sometimes overlooked in media, and the Seasoned Sessions podcast will celebrate blackness in spaces where it's often uncredited. CHECK IT OUT
Share Share your your Thoughts Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK @PitchBlackMagUK
Loved the article?
@PitchBlackMagUK
We love it when...
you
@PitchBlackMagUK
it.
Mindset
ways to
build
your
confident
voice
by
Alex Gordon
W
hat makes you nervous?
takes time, developing new habits for alternative experiences.
Public speaking is an Is it the thought, the idea output. It’s something we of a thing or the do everyday naturally until activity, doing something we tell our brains that we you’ve never done before? don’t like this activity. What if I told you, your subconscious mind does not know the difference between what’s real and what’s not real. They are nothing more than signals and impulses to your brain that send positive or negative messages…
Like speaking, confidence is a muscle, it’s the way you feel about doing a particular activity. You keep working on it until you change the way you feel and get the results you’re looking for.
So, here are five things you What you’re experiencing can do that will help you could just be in your head. impact your business or All in your imagination. your professional career in 2022 with your voice. So, what can you do? The anxiety you’re feeling 1. Practice for the anticipated task can be re-labeled. Our online streaming learning styles or our inputs into our minds are while speaking. either visual, auditory or Get your camera out and kinsthetic, the way we feel. press the record button. Go live to the world If we change the visual without worrying how you inputs to something with a look and sound. Just talk positive and empowering your talk, raw and real. energy, that could make a You may not have an big difference to how we actual audience you can feel. So instead of being see watching but people anxious you’re excited will be listening and with anticipation. watching your stream Conditioning your mind to whether live or the replay. create alternative output
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
... your subconscious mind does not know the difference between what’s real and what’s not real.
So you’re thinking what do Social media is hungry for I say... content. The virtual content machinery are All you need is 3 key always looking for articles points to talk on using for Instagram, Facebook, your expertise. LinkedIn, Quora, Reddit or Twitter. Open by saying, “ Hi my name is [Name] and in the next 30 minutes I will be 4. Productise talking about [Title] [Promise]” yourself and Just 3 points.
2. Produce content while you speak.
offer products when you speak.
My coach talks about this all the time and I never understood at first. This allows you to stop This is like creating your exchanging your time for own content creation money in services and sell machine. Use artificial something that can be intelligence software to consumed at the convert audio to text. So purchasers convenience. you’ve given your best Create an irresistible offer Talk, why not convert it to your audience can’t refuse. text to be published later. Solve a problem that your audience is experiencing.
3. Reproduce the content you’ve created for different platforms. Use segments for blog posts on your website.
5. Close the deal.
Stop taking and pause, wait. When we are unsure about something or feeling anxious we can’t stop ourselves speaking. Allow the minds of your
The virtual content machinery are always looking for articles for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Quora, Reddit or Twitter.
audience to digest what you have offered. Recap the benefits and tell them what to do next.
owners, coaches and consultants to build their confidence through public speaking.
My name is Alex Gordon and I help business Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
You’ve got to Speak Up & Raise your Voice Even Though You’re Nervous and Feel Like An Introvert Have you ever considered, that what you know, what you’ve been through, your truth, is enough reason for people to listen to you speak, to be heard?
Find Out More https://theunforgettablespeakerbook.com/
Mindset
[= Control + Alt + Delete] by
Colin Tomlin
W
hen I started using computers back in the day, they weren't as stable as they are now; they were a little more bug ridden and every now and again they would freeze if you taxed the processor too much. The indispensable little trick we used was the Ctrl + Alt + Del command, which would cause a 'hard reset' of the computer and more often than not, it would cure the problem. As I've gotten a little older, I've come to realize that what works for my artificial brain (my computer) also works for my human brain (natural computer).
With the kind of year we’ve all just come through, we may need to utilize this trick to ensure we can process all that's going on without our systems crashing. Here are 3 ways that you may need to reset your natural computer...
1. A while ago, I was asked by my daughter to give her some driving lessons to supplement the lessons
...we may need to utilize this trick to ensure we can process all that's going on without our systems crashing. Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
from her instructor. That's another story in itself! :) One of the things that I used to do was ensure that she started off slow as the car was easier to control at low speeds. If she was driving too fast approaching a junction, I would
encourage her to slow down, which ensured that she could process and respond to what was going on around her.
Let’s go on a journey to...
Discover. Define. Deliver.
your BiG ideas...
.
Download your 2 FREE Chapters
or
In many ways, handling a car can be much like handling your emotions.
2.
In a recent conversation with Judy, our resident psychologist, she Slowing down and reading the mentioned meta cognition; the signs and responding to what's ability that we have as humans to going on around you is an effective think about what we're thinking way to not fly off the handle and about. cause an emotional crash. This is a massively important Mariano Rivera, a PanamanianAmerican former professional baseball pitcher for the New York Yankees, said this, 'If you don't control your emotions, your emotions will control your acts, and that's not good.'
...meta cognition; the ability that we have as humans to think about what we're thinking about. ability. It ensures that we can alter our thoughts and with that alter our behaviour, our words and our actions.
3.
Roy T Bennett, author of The Light in the Heart, Inspirational Thoughts for Living your Best Life, encourages us that, “Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make, makes you. Choose wisely.”
'Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can never harm you!' I'm sure you've heard this growing up. It was meant to be an antidote for bullying words and behaviour.
Here's something to bear in mind, you are never hopeless nor helpless, you have a choice to make. Every. Single. Moment. Choose wisely.
However, I'm not convinced this is always true. Physical scars tend to heal faster than psychological ones. Words are powerful, and have the ability to create or destroy, inspire or incite. The words you speak, to yourself and others, can make or break. It can inspire faith or incite fear. This year, please be mindful when your system starts to slow down or glitch. When that happens, make sure to control your emotions, alter your thoughts and delete your negative words. Have the best year ahead! Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Creative experiential THERAPY
All for the weekly cost of a cup of coffee. And you get eg Magazine for FREE.
DOWNLOAD FREE Chapters
Wellness
The Incredible
Impact of
by
Dr Philippe Douyon
When we focus on negative thoughts our brains will prove us right by increasing our awareness of everything that is wrong around us.
O
prah Winfrey once said, “Whatever our dreams, ideas, or projects, we plant a seed, nurture it – and then reap the fruits of our labor.” To nurture means to care for, to pay attention to and to encourage the growth of something or someone. While it’s a principle that is most brilliantly exemplified in women who choose to become mothers and provide nurturing and stimulating environments in utero and beyond, its applicability goes far beyond the parent child relationship. The concept of nurturing influences every aspect of our
lives and in the process changes our brains. In this article I will share with you how the ideas we nurture affect our lives and the impact that nurturing has on the development of our brains. As I’ve stated before, to nurture means to pay attention to. When we pay attention to something we’re telling our brains that this is important to us. As a result, the Reticular Activating System, a group of nerve cells in the brainstem, becomes activated. It increases our awareness about everything related to our thoughts. When we focus on negative thoughts our brains will prove us right by increasing our
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
But if we focus on the positive, our reticular activating system will raise our consciousness to see all the beauty and opportunities that the world has to offer.
awareness of everything that is wrong around us. But if we focus on the positive, our reticular activating system will raise our consciousness to see all the beauty and opportunities that the world has to offer. In medicine we know the power that the thoughts we choose to nurture have on our ability to heal. Patients who constantly focus on their disease often do worse than those who nurture ideas of health and wellness. Where we place our attention, life tends to follow. What seeds are you planting in your brain? What thoughts and ideas are you nurturing?
The brain evolves in response to nurturing in remarkable ways. In keeping with the brilliant example of women who choose to become mothers, let’s dive into the impact that nurturing has on the brain of expectant mothers and their children. Mommy/Pregnancy Brain Is a Real Thing! In order to nurture a baby in utero and beyond, pregnancy triggers dynamic changes in the brain. Pregnancy is a critical period in brain development. During this time neurons and their connections are changing. New neurons and connections are being created while others are being pruned.
Be mindful of what you pay attention to and what you encourage to grow. It will influence how your brain and life evolves.
The structural and physiological changes occurring in the brain of expectant mothers serves the purpose of paying attention to what is now most important to her, her unborn baby. During pregnancy the brain evolves in order to allow the new mother to nurture her baby to the best of her abilities.
Studies have also found that children benefit from parents who are nurturing. Children whose mother’s nurtured them early in life have larger brain structures associated with learning, memory, and response to stress. Nurturing plays a significant role in our lives.
Therefore, be mindful of what you pay attention to and what you encourage to grow.
It will influence how your brain and life evolves.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Take Control NOW 34 | experience growth Magazine | Autumn 2020
Health
Eat yourself by
Stella Kennard
R
adical factors threaten each and every cell in our body.
Poor diets, increased environmental toxins, exposure to chemicals, a decrease in physical exercise… these numerous and unavoidable factors compromise each and every cell in our body, which in turn presents huge compromise to our overall health and wellbeing.
GMO, vegan, raw and fully digestible food types; flooded with vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes, and the essential fatty acids that help the body
Our cells can’t produce or work appropriately under the strain. These toxic threats cause our cells to react negatively, and that cellular reaction is inflammation. Cellular inflammation is a silent killer! Linked to hundreds of ailments, illnesses and diseases. Our cells can be inflamed and you wouldn’t even know it! We all tolerate this inflammation differently, but we can all control it in the same manner. A good source of nutrition supports positive cellular activity, and in turn can significantly reduce cellular inflammation. Many people are aware that nutrition is of vital importance when it comes to health. Our diet should contain non-
maintain optimal health and wellbeing through cellular rejuvenation. However, our modern world is dictating a need for speed,
resulting in mass farming and fast/convenience food types. Couple this with our sedentary lifestyles and we are unfortunately creating an underperforming, and malnourished society.
journey. Dr Joel Fuhrman talks to us of some of the healthiest, immune boosting, disease fighting food groups that should make up a significant portion of your regular diet.
It’s time to sit up and take control of our health - a good source of nutrition can be a life changer here! There has been so much research over the years. The combined knowledge of food stuff and ancient tonic herbs, will strengthen your cellular activity and so your immune system, and so will determine how you react to illness and disease. In plain terms the stronger you are the better chance you have of overcoming illness, and the very least, reducing the impact of symptoms of illness/disease.
It’s very important to create a sustainable dietary regime to promote optimal health, balance hormones, boost brain power, effect natural detoxification, promote fitness … the list goes on! Let me share just one nutrition lesson I have picked up from my own Living Nutrition
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
He calls them GBOMBS, which are:
Greens
Leafy greens are the most nutrient dense of all foods, but unfortunately are only consumed in minuscule amounts. Raw leafy greens contain only about 100 calories per pound, and are packed with nutrients that protect blood vessels, and are associated with reduced risk of diabetes. Greens are an excellent tool for weight loss, as they can be consumed in virtually unlimited quantities. The majority of calories in green vegetables, including leafy greens, come from protein; and this plant protein is packaged with beneficial phytochemicals. Green vegetables are rich in folate (the natural form of folic acid - to improve depression, forgetfulness, and sleep disorders), calcium, and contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Leafy greens are also rich in antioxidant pigments called carotenoids, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin, which are the carotenoids known to promote healthy vision.
Beans
Beans (and other legumes as well) are a powerhouse of superior nutrition, and the most nutrientdense carbohydrate source. They act as an anti-diabetes and weight -loss food because they are digested slowly, having a stabilising effect on blood sugar,
which promotes satiety and helps to prevent food cravings. Plus they contain soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol levels.
Onions
Onions along with leeks, garlic, chives, shallots, and scallions, make up the Allium family of vegetables. This family has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as antidiabetic and anti-cancer effects. Onions also contain high concentrations of healthpromoting flavonoid antioxidants, predominantly quercetin, and red onions also contain at least 25 different anthocyanins – acting as antioxidants and fighting free radicals.
Mushrooms
Consuming mushrooms regularly is associated with decreased risk of
breast, stomach, and colorectal cancers. White, cremini, portobello, oyster, shiitake, maitake, and reishi mushrooms all have anticancer properties - some are antiinflammatory, stimulate the immune system, prevent DNA damage, slow cancer cell growth, cause programmed cancer cell death, and inhibit angiogenesis. Keep in mind that mushrooms should only be eaten cooked, to avoid toxins.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are true superfoods. Naturally sweet and juicy, berries are low in sugar and high in nutrients. They are among the best foods you can eat. Their vibrant colors mean that they are full of antioxidants, including flavonoids, and antioxidant vitamins. Berries are some of the highest antioxidant foods in existence. Berries are an excellent food for the brain - berry consumption improves both motor coordination and memory.
Greens are an excellent tool for weight loss, as they can be consumed in virtually unlimited quantities.
Countless studies have demonstrated the cardiovascular benefits of nuts.
Seeds
Seeds and nuts contain healthy fats and are rich in a spectrum of micronutrients, including phytosterols, minerals, and antioxidants. Countless studies have demonstrated the cardiovascular benefits of nuts. In addition, nuts in the diet aid in weight maintenance and diabetes prevention. The nutritional profiles of seeds are similar to nuts when it comes to healthy fats, minerals, and antioxidants, but seeds are also abundant in trace minerals, higher in protein than nuts - and each kind of seed
is nutritionally unique. Flax, chia, and hemp seeds are extremely rich sources of omega-3 fats. In addition to the omega-3s, flaxseeds are rich in fiber. Sunflower seeds are especially rich in protein and minerals. Pumpkin seeds are rich in iron and calcium and are a good source of zinc. Sesame seeds have the greatest amount of
calcium of any food in the world, and provide abundant amounts of vitamin E. Also, black sesame seeds are extremely rich in antioxidants. The healthy fats in seeds and nuts also aid in the absorption of nutrients when eaten with vegetables. My own take on the GBOMBS program of food types is that Dr Fuhrman spells out the bottom lie - about reclaiming balance (health), energy, mental clarity,
the smooth operation of all body systems, bright eyes/skin and to have a lean and trim body. Don’t take my word for it, add a few of the whole foods from the GBOMBS program into every single meal this quarter, and notice how you feel. Remember to protect the gift of your health - treat your body right by making good food choices. Let’s start this year by making some healthier food choices.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Connect with us
@PitchBlackMagUK
Faith
by
Colin Tomlin
S
o, here we are in 2022.
To say it's been another interesting would be an understatement. As you look forward to the end of the pandemic and getting back to some kind of normalcy, I bet you’re saying, “2022 will be so different to 2022!”… …but will it? I mean, last year we were at this same point and many of us made the same resolutions, and we now know how it turned out. So, what will you do different in 2022? Here are 3 things that, I am convinced if you cultivate them, will make all the difference this year despite the challenges...
1. Conviction… in your HEART!
King Solomon said, 'Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life'. (Proverbs 4:23 NLT) He was suggesting that our heart state was a great determinant of where we end up in life. In other words, if our hearts not in it, it's not likely to happen. We will only have a casual approach
and a loose affinity so when obstacles come, as they invariably do, we will easily walk away. Without a conviction we are just performing a series of tasks. After a while it gets boring, gets mundane and simply loses it’s appeal. A conviction infuses passion. And passion is the foundation of persistence. So this year make sure your goals are fuelled by your convictions. When you feel like giving up, bolster your conviction by reminding yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing and this will release fresh commitment despite the circumstances.
2. Conception… in your HEAD!
When Dr Martin Luther King Jnr delivered his famous, ‘I Have A Dream’ speech he wasn’t just delivering a great speech, he was sharing his ‘conception’ of what his conviction of a racially tolerant society looked like. A concept transforms an idea into something tangible! What are the obstacles you're facing? What is it you want to see happen this year? What do you want to change?
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Without a conviction we are just performing a series of tasks. After a while it gets boring, gets mundane and simply loses it’s appeal.
Discover Essential
7Principles
to ignite your BiG ideas
Download your
or
Articulate a concept of what it looks like and you will be well on your way to making it happen. If you are starting a business this year, then one of the first things you must do is to work out your product or service: What is it? What does it look like? Who is it for? This brings your BiG idea alive.
3. Connection… in your HAND!
One of the most memorable statements from my Dad growing up is this, “No man is an island. No man stands alone.” It was a simple reminder that we need people. A well known businessman famously observed that, ‘he would rather 1% of the efforts of 100 men than 100% of his own.’ Leadership expert, John Maxwell said it another way, ‘Teamwork makes the dream work’. You’ve got to make sure that you are connected to the people who you serve and the people who you serve with. If they don’t understand your conviction, they won’t be connected to you and
your mission. A great way to do that is to simply stretch a hand into someone’s world… “Hey I’m Colin, how can I help you this year?” Let’s cultivate these 3 things to ensure that we make some massively impressive, important & impactful stuff happen this year. As the pandemic ends, we're going to need each other more than we can imagine!
You’ve got to make sure that you are connected to the people who you serve and the people who you serve with. If they don’t understand your conviction, they won’t be connected to you and your mission.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Bold. Beautiful. Black. British. The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Business
Business by
Judy Tomlin
W
elcome 2022 and all the opportunities you hold!
A new year typically begins with resolutions, aims, targets and goal setting as we apply information we’ve gained through reflecting on the previous season.
Within education, the academic year starts in September with a flurry of activities around new beginnings and then a fresh look at progress in January -Spring Term. Whether you’re a student with entrepreneurial ambitions, a business owner supporting your child/children’s education, a focused new start-up or seasoned entrepreneur, we all benefit from on-going education and an attitude of life-long learning that supports growth. So, what tips can we share to achieving a gold star in business? Know and cover your bases. Whether you’re just starting out or launching into another new year you need to know and review your bases. Base resources can be categorized into finance, human, education, physical and support resources.
Base: Finance
I know I don’t need to tell you that you’re going to need money! Whether you’re just beginning or beginning a fresh project within your existing business, start-up and ongoing operational costs need to be known. Yes, I’m all for ‘starting with what you have’ but even the humblest beginnings need to consider business registration, business cards, phones/ communication costs. What is the financial cost and your plan to finance it? Many dig into their own personal finances trusting their projections will pay off. Family and friends are often sought for loans and investment, please exercise the same courtesy, and caution you would afford any investment or loan from a banking/ financial institution. Increasingly popular are crowd funding
sites, again whatever process, or platform you choose, count the cost.
remain as just you or will you need to employ people as plans progress? Think longer term.
Base: Human Resources & Education
Are you a sole trader? A limited company of one? Will your human resource needs
What people do you need to cover areas for development and skills gaps?
Reflect and review your own knowledge base and training/ skills needs of all the people
Whether you’re just beginning or beginning a fresh project within your existing business, start-up and ongoing operational costs need to be known. Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
involved to start and maintain your business.
Base: Physical & Support
The type and size of physical space and equipment you need will vary depending on the product and/or service you provide. Make sure you know and stay up to date with all regulations applicable to property and equipment you need. Think about available support should necessary equipment fail, or you face staff shortages. If it’s just you, what happens when you need to take a break? Emotional support from family, friends and team is also vital. Starting and running a business is immensely rewarding and satisfying when it’s going well, but there is no denying the stressors involved when the buck stops with you. The wellbeing of your business starts with the wellbeing of you and your people. An emotional support base cannot be stressed enough! Often the fear of failing and adding to the data of ‘closed business’ statistics stops people from actioning an idea, but nothing is wasted.
The wellbeing of your business starts with the wellbeing of you and your people.
Cover your bases wisely, if you fail, you will fail forward - refine your next step from the information gained, then get up and try again. As in life, business is a journey, and you cannot progress if you don’t make a move. Start. Get going and Happy New Year!
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
GET THE BOOK NOW!
Finance
Fix
your
by
Sharon Wint-Gordon
S
o, 2022 is here, you survived 2021!
Physically you are here, but how about financially?
Shhh… No one is judging.
Reset
Why not reset and adopt new habits for future gratification?
Are you one of the millions who wasn’t going to overspend at Take stock of where you are at now. Christmas, but the weight of COVID’s Omicron surging provided You need to be brave and check those balances. the best excuse to live life NOW? The reality is there are several fundamentals we cannot get away from when it comes to money and our finances. You see, regardless of whether you are here or not… there will be financial consequences to be faced by you, or those you leave behind. January provides the perfect opportunity to reset, refocus and realign your income and your expenses. For those of you who may have mistaken this for setting a resolution! STOP! No, this is about forming new STANDARDS, forming new HABITS. Strava’s researchers analysed more than 31.5 million fitness records from its users and found that the second Friday in January is the fateful day when most of our annual commitments start to crumble. Also known internationally as ‘Quitters Day’ sadly that was Friday 14th January 2022.
Where are you today with your Earnings? Debt? Savings?
How does this compare with 2020? Compare this to 2019 pre pandemic, are there other obvious trends, poor or positive habits?
When it comes to planning your financial future map your wish list, speak to anyone else who will or might be directly affected by it – be intentional about what’s in and Write them down, keep a financial what’s out and have a strong why. growth journal, it will help you to Understand that these plans could define what changes and challenges change over time as ‘life happens’ the you have overcome or are facing – stronger the why, the greater what worked and what didn’t – trust probability of success. me it will be cathartic.
Refocus
Realign
You are now in good position to Then refocus on your immediate, realign your finances using the ‘10 10 short-term, medium-term, and long- 10 70’ strategy made popular by the term financial plans. late Jim Rohn. I was introduced to this strategy 10 years ago, the What do your plans look like, this is concept changed my thinking, it your Clear Concise Mental Picture motivated me to form new habits CCMP, or Vision board. that have developed and stayed with me. The concept allows you to budget for now and the future, whatever, your income –
What do your plans look like, this is your Clear Concise Mental Picture CCMP, or Vision board.
10% of income on Giving (Charity, Faith based giving or wider family support).
70% of income on monthly expenses (Rent, Mortgage, Utilities, Food etc).
10% of income on Savings (before saving you MUST have an emergency fund 3-6 month of your expenses or a min of £1,000).
This is about getting into a new habit and may not be possible immediately. How about starting with 5 5 5 85?
10% of income on your future (Retirement, Investment portfolio).
I hope you can see why it was vital that you check-in with your current
and long term spending before getting to this point. Giving part of your income away might appear strange if you believe you have insufficient for yourself, trust me, it can be one of the harder habits to form.
community a better place – this judgement is fundamentally up to personal choice.
You must have an Emergency Fund before medium term saving can start – it’s for those divine mishaps called car malfunction, fridge/freezer disasters or the school trip you forgot This is about taking responsibility for to pay for - you would normally run your community, for those less for the credit card, pay day loan, or fortunate than yourself making your need to rely on friends and family.
An emergency fund also gives a measure of security should you be between employment or business is slow. How long can you survive? My final and bonus offering to realign your finances must be to encourage you to set up a PLAY
that special item – it does not affect your 70% and when its gone, stay home with Netflix and homemade popcorn till you top up.
10% of income on Giving. 10% of income on Savings. 10% of income on Your Future. 70% of income on Monthly Expenses. ACCOUNT – its personal just to you, each month squirrel away a small amount of your income, or do something to bring in additional funds, if its your birthday and family, friends and colleagues don’t know what to get you, invite them to add to your ‘play account’ now when you want to have fun, go to that special restaurant, enjoy a spa or purchase
This is so true, ‘we never plan to fail, we just fail to plan’ when you need to make your next major financial decision you will be glad you did.
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
Loved the article?
@PitchBlackMagUK
Politics
the Benny Hill the Churchill (a story of intrigue) by
Dr Floyd Millen
F
rom hanging precariously over London on a zip wire; nearly losing his life to Covid 19; losing his most trusted adviser Dominic Cummings and revelations to the Health Select Committee; presiding over numerous lockdown parties; investigations and news stories about wallpaper and donations; supporting ministers who have bullied staff, continued disquiet at his apparent spasmodic relationship with the truth; his Conference of
Boris Johnson is ‘a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma’ (Winston Churchill: 1939). the Parties 26 (COP 26) speech sighting Kermit the Frog and his CBI Peppa Pig speeches; his ‘slip of the tongue’ which has seen Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s continued imprisonment in Iran, his description of Muslim women as letter boxes and his various derogatory comments about Black people to upending British politics by winning Labour strong hold seats to honouring the referendum and taking the UK out of the European Union. Boris Johnson is ‘a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an
enigma’ (Winston Churchill: 1939). With accusations of incompetence, poor decision making and allegedly being glib about the lives of the over 80’s to Covid-19, Boris’s ability to hang on after the Owen Patterson debacle, and his minister’s willingness to defend
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
him as he sought to rewrite the rules to protect Paterson has served to further prove the indefatigable and irrepressible phenomenon that is Boris Johnson. Boris has hitherto emerged relatively unscathed from his numerous self-inflicted skirmishes. Even when Conservative MPs refused to back him, Boris was able to convince Sir Keir Starmer and Labour MPs to support his new Social Care
Bill. Indeed, Boris Johnson is a force of nature, defying political gravity and executing political pirouettes at will.
Blair & Boris, the Teflon Men
Boris argued for and against Brexit. With his finger on the pulse along with a dose of opportunism, he led Britain’s exit
from the EU but has now lost his chief BREXIT negotiator, Lord Frost. Boris prorogued parliament, led chaotic Brexit negotiations, supported nurses with hand claps then only offered a 1% pay rise; overruled independent reports concluding that his home secretary was a bully; described the prospect of 20,000 Covid-19 deaths as being unthinkable; but now has presided over 150,000+ deaths, numerous false stops and starts with lockdowns at the beginning and during pandemic and a plethora of mix messaging, obfuscation on PPE and the use of VIP lanes to award PPE contracts.
his government performed, until Iraq, very little mud stuck to the former Prime Minister Teflon Tony. Boris has taken Teflon Tony to a whole new paradigm, where publicly and internationally; the office of the British Prime Minister is being brought into disrepute on matters of integrity and honesty. Nevertheless: Boris has had more comebacks than JR Ewing.
Tony Blair was the most successful British Prime Minister of our time. Under Blair and Brown people felt better off as a result of his, and Brown’s premiership. Irrespective of how
Boris’s former journalist colleagues are contemptuous of him and there are many in the parliamentary party who wish to see the back of him.
The Benny Hill of British politics
The comedian Benny Hill would be proud of the effortless way our great leader gaffs, blunders and recovers. Boris’s former journalist colleagues are contemptuous of him and there are many in the parliamentary party who wish to see the back of him. The Kraken has now been released on Boris. Supporters of Boris maintain that the constant drip feeding of stories are being generated and pushed by the media and those who dislike him: it is also reasonable to argue that the checks and balances in our system are acting without fear or favour. Detractors of the prime minster and others who are demanding openness and
transparency argue that this line of discussion/inquiry is irrelevant because the office of prime minister must be above reproach. Benny Hill was flawed, but funny; at his peak he entertained the world. Benny Hill’s Day came and went. Like Benny Hill, Boris Johnson is comedic, is clumsy, irreverent, unpredictable, populist: but Benny Hill wasn’t running the country. The world loves to laugh and in these desperate times, we do need to lift our spirits: but at what cost? When the show ends and the comedian exits stage left with the applause still ringing in his ears and he goes reaping the benefits of his rumbustious and rambunctiousness; what will we be left with? We will be left with? We will be left with huge energy bills from April 2022; tax
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
increases including the 1.25% National Insurance levy; more people being brought surreptitiously - into the higher rate tax band; lack of face-to-face GP
of living in modern Britain- warts and all. Boris/Churchill reluctant heroes To some, Boris is a hero because he has rolled out a hugely successful vaccine programme. For many who have lost family, friends and livelihoods, he has squandered his time in office - maybe his pride and privilege has got the better of his humanity. To many others, he is everything but a hero, because whilst his govern is flexing its muscles with the EU and engaging in culture wars at home, the great British public are about to be financially worse off. The survivor, The winner Yet with all this upending, irregularities, and idiosyncrasies the man that is Boris continues to defy political logic and continues to entertain and disappoint with equal measure. Winston Churchill went on to state, that the key to understanding Russia was National Interest: similarly, the key to understanding Boris Johnson is ‘Self Interest’. Boris Johnson is simultaneously, Winston Churchill, Tony Blair and Benny Hill
appointments; longer NHS waiting lists; real terms erosion of benefits due to interest rate increases; underfunding of police services resulting in crimes not being investigated; reduction in police officers. The real lived experiences
...There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood can lead to great fortune omitted, the voyage is bound in shallows and in miseries. Is Boris now afloat on such a low sea?
Share your Thoughts
@PitchBlackMagUK
The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Connect with us
@PitchBlackMagUK
The UK’s Black Enterprise & Experience Magazine
Get the exclusive
print copy offer FREE GIFT of
Artisan Chocolates
WE’LL PAY for your postage
+
FREE Artisan
EARLY ACCESS to digital editions
Hand Crafted Chocolate Julea Tomlin Chocolate/Our Communitea create quality products for people and purpose. It’s all about social impact. www.ourcommunitea.com
Bundle worth over £56
All for ONLY £28* • ONE YEAR print issues. Full value £28
• EARLY ACCESS to digital editions
• FREE Home Delivery. Full value £16.80
• FREE GIFT*. Full value of chocolates £12
www.pitchblackmagazine.com/printoffer *This offer is limited to UK addresses and is subject to availability. The free gift will be sent to the payer. RRP at the discretion of retailer. For privacy notice and permissions, visit www.pitchblackmagazine.com/privacy.