FAMILY MATTERS NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
Model
Yinka Sunmonu Consultant | Email: ys@cherishcommunications.com
› Welcome (p2) › Adoption stories (p4) › Interiors: (p5) Designing a room for your adopted child
| ADOPTION SPECIAL › page 17 to 32
OF SUCCESS
› Careers (p6) Second Jobbing
› Ebony Reads (p7) Books for children and young people
› Lifestyle (p8) Healthy Eating
› It’s all about the memories
› Celebrity chef (p11) Lorraine Pascale talks food, fashion and adoption
Cover: Lorraine Pascale | Photography by: Myles New
(p10)
Family Matters
18 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
WELCOME Yinka Sunmonu CONSULTANT Yinka Sunmonu specialises in adoption and fostering, literacy and Alzheimer’s spearheading a number of key initiatives in these areas
Plenty to celebrate
N
ational Adoption Week, coordinated by BAAF, is marking its 15th year. We remember the day it was launched – 13th October 1997 at the Museum of Childhood with BAAF, organisers, together with West Sussex Council, NCH Acton for Children and the Catholic Children’s Society. A golden elm tree was planted and we hope that its foundations remain as strong as National Adoption Week, which has grown in strength and continues to raise awareness. NAW gives rise to celebrating adoptions and giving hope to the children seeking forever families. Fifteen years on and The Voice continues to lend its
voice to ask readers to spread the word about adoption and consider adopting a child. Please read our stories with fathers on page 4. Our other models of success include: books that inspire with the heroic story of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British army and a Tottenham Hotspur star; healthy eating the African Caribbean way; ideas for second jobs; and Alzheimer’s awareness through the gèlè. Nobody epitomises the billing of model of success better than celebrity chef and TV star Lorraine Pascale, adopted herself, who gives a welcome home dinner suggestion.
Enjoy the read. Yinka Sunmonu
Let’s talk It is a privilege to write on adoption and fostering, to encourage people to consider fostering or adopting a child or to pass the message on because this form of child care is not for everyone. Passing the message on is important because that’s the way information is given to people who may act on it.
RESPONSIBLE I have been writing on adoption and fostering issues for over 15 years and launched the Voice’s Adoption and Fostering supplements. Through them, I’ve been featured on radio and television, was responsible for the first House of Commons Reception on Private Fostering with help from BAAF and saw results from one of our surveys appear on the Channel 4 Series Adoption on Trial and Channel 4 news. I’ve spoken at conferences and have had people write or call to say that they have adopted or fostered a child because of something I’ve written.
This is gratifying. Yet the best thing to have happened is keeping in touch with many of the people who have been part of the supplements, the social workers, the parents, the children. Two of ‘our’ children are adults now - one is working in musical production and another studying law (watch this space for updates).
APATHETIC I stepped away from the adoption and fostering arena for a while and returned earlier this year to kick start debates in the community through Family Matters. Still, black and mixed race children are overrepresented in the system and need foster carers or adoption. I don’t believe that the black community is apathetic when it comes to caring for its children but I do ask this: is there a need for greater specialization when it comes to African Caribbean adoption and fostering?; is it time to increase the profile of black social workers,
researchers and health professionals so that when they speak, we identify and listen as do policy makers? The black community is not a one size fits all and it seems that different approaches are needed and the more creative they are, the better. I know that some organisations have started to work on this in an effort to increase take up and we hope to profile them in future editions. VITAL It works both ways though. It’s time for the community to become more vocal in this area and have their voices heard and this is something that hasn’t been done in the past. It starts from within. Dr Omobolaji Wilson is doing great work and making a valuable contribution in improving the health of looked after children in North East Lincolnshire. She gave us an interview in the May edition of Foster Care. The Olusanya’s, featured in this edition, are playing a vital role in
raising awareness and have been nominated for an award. And me? I’ve started by finally talking about my contribution. How about you?
ADOPTION: THE FACTS You do not have to own your own home. You do not have to be married You do not have to be rich –people on low incomes can adopt. You can be over 40 Having a disability does not prevent you from adopting Find out more from: your local authority, an independent fostering agency or www. nationaladoptionweek.org.uk FOSTER CARE The Top Project Support the Top Project, which organises a Christmas Day celebration for care leavers aged 16 25, who do not have families or friends to share the holidays with. Twitter: @thetopeproject
020 7592 3923
www.pactcharity.org/info info@pactcharity.org
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Family Matters
NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012 THE VOICE | 19
Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service was formally Adoption Black Families
Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service Finding and supporting families for black, minority ethnic and mixed parentage babies and children
The next event is on Saturday 17 November 12-2 at Action for Children Hackford Walk, Hackford Road Stockwell SW9 0QT. Ring 0207 582 3687 to register for a place.
We’re with you every step of the way Could you share your life with vulnerable children who may not get the chance to be adopted such as older children or brother and sister groups? If so, Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service will provide you with extensive training and support from an experienced, friendly and responsive team, for as long as it takes. Our passionate team reflects the ethnic diversity of the families we work with.
Call 0845 603 3398 or visit actionforchildren.org.uk/adoption
Transform a child’s life and yours. Adopt Registered charity nos. 1097940/SC038092 Company no. 4764232 Produced by Action for Children 09/2012. 12/13/0128
20 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
New families: Stories of adoption Tell us about your adoption and settling your child at home?.
We adopted our first son in November 2005. He was two years old. As we had no children when our adopted son came home it was easy to settle him in and we had taken him home several times during the introduction process. It was amazing - everything just felt right when he finally arrived home. What’s the most challenging thing about adoption?
The questions. The amount of information our social worker required. The interviews. How does adoption test relationships?
It tests how much you love each other as a couple and how much you want a child. What qualities do you need to adopt?
A big heart, a love of children and loads of patience. Do you think there is still a stigma attached to adoption? Shegun Olusanya and his wife Seyi
Yes, there is in our community. The work we
have done since 2005 has gone a long way to erase this stigma. We have been very open about our adoption. We have taught our son to celebrate his adoption and we tell him that he was chosen. What’s the greatest satisfaction you’ve achieved from adoption?
Media work we’ve done for BAAF, publicising adoption within the Afro Caribbean community and helping a lot of children find stable homes. We’ve been shortlisted for the National Adoption Champion 2012 award in recognition of our work. GREG Greg is of Caribbean heritage and was adopted himself. He is in a civil partnership with Scott. They adopted a little boy, Danny around five years ago and adopted a little girl, Rose, three years ago. Both children are of African Caribbean heritage and are not birth siblings. This is his adoption story. We adopted because we wanted to start a family. Adoption for the right people is bringing together a mix of patience, love, and laughter allowing a child to grow and thrive in that environment. Our reservations were around acceptance by friends, family and our local community but, fortunately, I’m pleased to report that on all these fronts our children have received the best support network possible.
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ADOPTION HAS ITS REWARDS IT Consultant Shegun Olusanya and his wife Seyi, a successful events planner, opted for adoption after trying for several years to have children of their own. They adopted a son. Three years later, the Olusanya’s were blessed with two birth children. They are adoption champions.
Family Matters
Changing Lives Interview with BAAF CEO David Holmes
be adopted by someone who shares that child’s ethnic and cultural background. But we do believe that anyone adopting a child from care should be able to promote and support that child’s identity and that this is an important part of on-going adoption support.
BAAF is celebrating 15 years of coordinating National Adoption Week. Yinka Sunmonu took a minute with BAAF Chief Executive David Holmes. Yinka Sunmonu: What does National Adoption Week mean for you? David Holmes: For me National Adoption Week is all about collective effort in order to make a really big difference for children waiting for adoption. The most amazing part of the Week for me is when we find a family for a child who has been featured in the national media. It means that together we are changing a child’s life for good, forever. YS: How does BAAF push the agenda for BME children and young people needing adoption? DH: We work hard to continue to raise through campaigning, training and consultancy and publications that we need adopters from all ethnic backgrounds to consider whether they could adopt because there are children from all ethnic
What are BAAF’s plans for 2013?
David Holmes
backgrounds in care and needing adoption. We know that children from some BME backgrounds (particularly Black and Asian children) are less likely to be adopted than White or Mixed Heritage children and we know that some BME children wait far too long for adoption. BAAF believes that a child’s heritage and identity is important and needs to be recognised and appropriately celebrated. We don’t believe that a child can only
Last year through our family finding services we found families for more than 700 children needing adoption across the UK. I want to do even better next year. Whenever people need advice, support or information about adoption BAAF will be there. The policy and political spotlight will be firmly on adoption throughout 2013. As ever BAAF will ensure that we are at the centre of thinking to ensure that the proposed reforms work well for children needing adoption as well as for everyone else involved.
¢ Your views
Tweet about adoption and fostering in the community: @adoptionnoire
Family Matters
NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012 THE VOICE | 21
Designing a Bedroom for your Adopted Child We caught up with sought after interior designer Toks Aruoture, owner of Punkin Patch Interiors, the luxury furnishings boutique for infants and children, who gives five tips on decorating a room with an adopted child in mind. Designing the bedroom 1) Decide on the theme Try to work out your child’s character. What do you know about their background that could help them settle quickly? Do they have collected treasures such as jewellery, a photo, teddy bear, doll or blanket? Any of these could be the starting point for decoration. Another idea, depending on age is to have any would-be siblings paint one another’s hand prints on their walls and have the adopted child return the favour when they arrive. A fun picture of all the children together framed in different colours - one for each room - is another way to create togetherness and harmony. 2) Colour Colour can be used on the walls, which will make a big difference to the room. Alternatively you can keep the walls neutral and add accessories like beanbags, or fun shaped cushions. When picking colours, choose harmonious hues - colours that lie next to each other on the colour wheel, for example blue and green or green and yellow. These colours are pleasing to the eye.
3) Get creative At this point, you can involve the child if this is an option. If not, try to discover their favourite hobbies or activities. I recommend using a hint or suggestion of an activity that they are already involved in. If you’re planning a room for a boy who plays football, then a painting of a worn, muddy pair of football boots, would personalise it, especially if they’re the type of boots he or his favourite footballer wears. For a girl, the shadow of a ballet dancer taking a bow, a daisy chain or beaded bracelets could suffice. You can even use a 3-D or boxed frame and frame an actual pair of boots, ballet slippers or chain, and, of course, treasured items can be framed too. 4) Furnishings & Decor Think about the activities that would be taking place in their new room. Boys’ furniture should be rustic and reflect nature, as they typically prefer the outdoors, so choose natural finishes of wood. For girls, go for painted surfaces in softer colours like white, cream or pastels. A table or bedside lamp not only adds style to the room but also added comfort incase
Bring colour and texture to a room
they are afraid of the dark. As for bed linen, find out about allergies and skin conditions like eczema. If in doubt, use hypoallergenic linens and synthetic-fibre filled duvets and pillow cases. Organic mattresses are also available and they are fantastic for children with allergies or sensitive skin. Beanbags and cushions are another winning addition to the room. They’re great for punching around in frustration and for pillow fights! 5) Finishing touch A welcome home sign painted with the child’s name and placed on the bedroom door
Afrocosmopolitan home
Laurence Kanza, founder of La Petite Congolaise, the contemporary interiors company whose products are in the most fashionable homes, invites you to the world of Afrocosmpolitan style. “Afrocentrifying” ones home is about creating a home that is a reflection of one’s personal style and taste with cultural references. This can be done by personalising with colour, texture, accessories and art. For example, take a basic neutral living room then start to layer with colour. Liven up a sofa with a selection of cushions. Use a coffee table to display a collection of beautiful books or arrangements of treasured personal possessions.
Create balance and texture with wood: masks and statues come in all shapes and sizes, while wooden stools can act as display surfaces when not being used for extra seating. VARIATIONS Use simple everyday objects, displayed in unusual ways – such as collections of shells, beads, or bowls. Have fun experimenting. Eventually, you will develop an eye and an opinion on what works and doesn’t work for you.
Cushions are a great way to bring colour, texture and visual interest to a room. There are so many variations and combinations available depending on your style, mood and personality: from the size of the cushion itself, to the choice of fabric, to the colour, and the number of cushions. Colour doesn’t have to be bold and bright, it can also be beautifully understated with a subtle palette of neutrals and earth tones. Experiment and see what works in the room.
Inspirational
books and manuals for more effective communion by Ferdinard Senyo Lawson.
Go to Our Books at www.memoirspublishing.com or Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, www.waterstones.co.uk. See our blog www.ferdinardlawson.org
Coming soon Just A Matter of Time, The Spirit and the Sacrifices of a Pastors Armour Bearer, Surely! Your dream Seed Will Grow, and Overcoming the Hurdles of Life
Family Matters
22 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
Careers
Ideas for second jobs
SECOND JOBBING
With an increase in the number of people taking part time jobs and the rise of Slashies, young people who have more than one job, we speak to Esther Alade, an HR Advisor and a successful TV presenter who talks about juggling two roles and Vanessa Agyemang, an interior architect who is mapping out a career path.
JUGGLING: Esther Alade
MODEL DESIGNER: Vanessa
Esther Alade The benefits of a second job is that… it can be extra income. Second jobbing is also good if you’re looking to change jobs or careers and want to test it out. The implications of second jobbing on your main job… coping. It’s about time management, priotising your work and getting the balance right. If in doubt about the implications, check your employment contract. An HR adviser becomes a “part time” TV presenter… by being in the right place in my case. I was at a conference several years ago when approached by BenTV owner Alistair Soyede who asked me to do a quick introduction to camera. I did! Vanessa Agyemang Modelling is linked to my work in a way. I’ve always had
a strong passing for design and the way objects function and how they can be developed. I bring this concept to modelling. I’ve had numerous jobs including the ‘Afro Hair & Beauty Show 2012’ It’s a great second job especially as a student. I modelled for Stage Coach while studying at the University of Kent. Interior architects should not be confused with interior designers. The work can range from renovation to reconstruction and can involve carpentry and joinery. Interior architecture plus modelling means business one day. My main interest is in furniture (I’ve designed three pieces to date) and I hope to open my own furniture design studio. Modelling enhances my communication skills, gives me networking opportunities and shows me the potential of design in so many ways.
(L-R) CHOCOLATE AMBASSADOR: Paul Wayne Gregory started business from home HOST: A make up party, Bespoke jewellry, JODELYNLONDON: Creative folk utilize skills
BECOME A VIRTUAL AGENT Instead of taking customer orders or answering queries from the shop floor, find a company that will let you do it from home. Keywords for internet search: virtual customer agencies. Consultancy Use your skills/knowledge to become a consultant. Do your research, prepare a business plan/ package, tap into your network, apply.
Food If you’ve an interest in food and want to become as influential as Paul Wayne Gregory, Levi Roots, Marcia Brown or Elizabeth Solaru – go for it. The first steps to building a business from home are: research/product development; food hygiene certificate; and contact with your local authority environmental health department (if cooking/preparing food). Don’t forget that you can hire commercial kitchen space. Fitness or personal trainer
Work in a gym or get clients via word of mouth. You can even tell colleagues at work and get them to spread the word. Direct selling from home Traditional Tupperware parties, make-up (Avon and Mary Kay), jewellry, fabrics and even shoe parties can bring extra income. JOB SEARCHING Utilise social media such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn and never underestimate the power of the network.
Thinking About Adoption? Wednesday 7 November 2012 6.30pm – 8.30pm (panel discussion starts at 7pm)
If you would like to hear all about adoption from the true experts, adoptive parents, adopted people and a BAAF representative, come along to our event at:
The Assembly Hall, Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, London N1 2UD www.adoptionnorthlondon.co.uk For more information text Adoption followed by your email address to 66777 or email your name and address to info@adoptionnorthlondon.co.uk
You don’t have to live in north London to adopt through us
Family Matters
NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012 THE VOICE | 27
Ebony Reads...books to inspire From Black British War Hero Walter Tull to New African Fashion and Chocolate Me,about self image, we look at books to inspire. Chocolate Me, Taye Diggs, published by Feiwel & Friends, 2011 Chocolate Me is a book about a young boy ridiculed for the color of his skin, texture of his hair, shape of his nose. Feeling different to his peers, he wants to fit in – even wishing for a name like theirs. His mother, through the use of food imagery, tells him how special he is, which the turning point. A batch of chocolate muffins at the end helps to break the ice.
he received a recommendation for the Military Cross for his bravery and leadership in the trenches during the First World War. The use of photos, documents, pictures, records brings life to the story showing the social history of the times, and prejudices. Children who prefer visuals rather than text should adore this book. We’re positive it will be used in schools, national curriculum even, and will be shortlisted for many prizes.
CHOICE ‘Walter Tull scrapbook’, by Michaela Morgan, published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, 2012 This fictionalized scrapbook depicts the life of Walter Tull, the first black British professional outfield football player who signed for Tottenham in 1909 and the first black officer in the British Army. Born in Folkestone in 1888 and raised in a children’s home 10 years later, it’s the powerful history of a care leaver who endeared racism and overcame the odds to achieve. In 1918,
The Herd Boy, Niki Daly, published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books In this fictional story of life as a herd boy in South Africa, Malusi dreams of a better life and becoming president. By chance, he has a meeting with Nelson Mandela, who was a herd boy in the Transkei and went on to become a lawyer and President of South Africa. MUSIC Singer songwriter Lánre hits the spot with debut album, ‘Pen Voyage Chapter 1: Singing for Change’.
It’s a reflection on life that tells stories of pride, inspiration, empowerment and change. Dubbed as acoustic soul, it has elements of folk, African rhythms, gospel and the lullaby. Beautiful, Inspiration and Ma Gbagbe (chosen for Lufthansa Airline’s playlist “Sounds of Africa”) are standouts. New African Fashion, by Helen Jennings, published by Prestel, 2011 With biographies of some of African’s finest designers, snazzy shots and a potted history of design, it’s a welcome read. Billed as a coffee table book, it goes a bit further than that and is a classic already. We look forward to the sequel. Know Your Care Leaver A-Z’, published by The Who Cares Trust? Lists famous people raised in care including: civil rights activist Malcolm X, Olympian Kriss Akabusi and actor Eddie Murphy. ‘Crowns: portraits of black
women in church hats’, by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry, published by Doubleday, 2000. Classic pictorial book on hats that includes interviews with women who talk about their significance. Fashion – The Hat Lady Award winning milliner Lyze Bamigbola designs bespoke hats for clients and royalty. She trained at Kensington & Chelsea College where her creations were among those chosen to sell for the Royal Ascot Season. Her hats have also appeared in Peter Jones. We asked three questions. What’s the difference between a hat and a fascinator? A hat covers at least ¾ of the head, a fascinator is a frivolous head décor, usually tilted and worn the side of the head. They are also lighter and do not take as much storage space as a full hat. What’s the most unusual hat you’ve ever made? The most usual hat I have made is from a Traffic Cone. It was made for the Worshipful Feltmakers’ De-
sign Competition, which I won. Do you believe in going after things you want? Most definitely! What we want out of life does not just fall into our laps. It all starts with a dream, and in pursuit of that dream, one most have a clearly defined mission, statement and strategy. In so doing, one must have passion, dedication, and a focused drive that enables one to go out there and realize all that has been set out in that strategy. Frog’s Breathtaking Speech: How Children and Frogs Can Use the breath to Deal With Anxiety, Anger and Tension, by Michael Chissick, Singing Dragon, 2012 Frog has to give a speech and is nervous about it – a situation many of us can identify with. He copes by learning to breathe effectively. It’s a wonderful story that children with several talking points and a good read. Lovely illustrations too.
Adopting for Coventry Michael and Aisha are brother and sister aged 5 and 4 years respectively. They are African Caribbean and have been waiting for an adoptive family for a long time. Michael is an active, outgoing and confident little boy who is very chatty and sociable. He loves going to school where he has made many friends and doing well. He has an inquisitive mind and loves learning new things. He has a healthy appetite, sleeps well and has very warm and affectionate relationships with his foster carers. He is caring and protective over Aisha. Aisha is a bubbly, happy and endearing little girl who enjoys cuddles with her foster carers. She is a bit more shy and reserved than Michael especially with people she doesn’t know very well. She has settled well at school, has made many friends and is making good progress. She loves princesses and anything pink. Like Michael, Aisha has a good appetite and sleeps well. Both children need the stability of having a loving and nurturing family. They want a family of their own where they can put down their roots and belong to for the rest of their lives. *Not their real names
For more information, please ring Viva Perumal at Coventry City Council on: 024 7683 1873 or email viva.perumal@coventry.gov.uk
www.coventryadoptionandfostering
Family Matters
28 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
HEALTHY EATING
The Amazing properties of African Caribbean food
A
ANGELA TELLA
ngela Tella is a registered dietitan, lifestyle expert, founder of Illumina Lifestyle Consulting and author of two successful books: Healthy West African & Wise™, which contains healthy recipes and Healthy West African & Wise Food Guide™, which provides nutritional information on foods eaten in both African and Caribbean communities. Yinka Sunmonu asks her about the health benefits of our food and why it pays to eat healthily. Yam, for instance, is a versatile starchy food that provides readily available energy and aids bowel health due to its fibre content. Okra is a vegetable with soluble fibre that can reduce cholesterol levels and also aids bowel health, while Callaloo (also known as African Spinach) is high in fibre as well as calcium, which is needed for bone and tooth health. Plantain is a good source of iron and also contains vitamins A and C, both powerful antioxidants.
stickystars rev TC_Layout 1 01/10/2012 13:28 Page 2
Yinka “ Sunmonu: With
shopping list in hand, am off to the market but have no idea about the nutritional value of staples such as yam, okra, callaloo or plantain. Help.
”
YS: What are some of the most nutritious African and Caribbean fruits and vegetables? AT: Cassava leaves, sweet peppers, African spinach (callaloo), chocho (christophine), mangoes, guava and bananas are examples of popularly eaten African and Caribbean fruits and vegetables which can all aid good health. YS: What are your top 5 vegetables? AT: African spinach/callaloo is rich in iron and folic acid, both essential for a healthy pregnancy. Baobab leaves are high in calcium which is particularly significant as dairy foods (which are known to be calcium sources) do not feature much in some African diets. They also contain beta-carotene (the plant version of vitamin A) which is essential for eye health. Cassava leaves are rich in protein which is required for growth and tissue repair. Okra is rich in soluble fibre which aids bowel health and
nationaladoptionweek
rule yourself in... 15th anniversary: 5–11 November 2012 www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk
Every
hild deserves a family
The British Association of Adoption and Fostering is a registered charity number 275689 (England & Wales) and SC039337 (Scotland)
the seeds contain an oil, which is similar to olive oil making it a very heart-healthy food. Scotch bonnet peppers are rich in vitamin C which can substantially boost iron absorption from other ingredients in a meal. YS: What tips would you give to somebody planning a healthy diet and is it the end of fried plantain or salt cod fritters? AT: A healthy diet is about balance, variety and proportion. It’s also about enjoying food and making informed choices. This means including foods from all food groups, watching portion size and considering how frequently you eat certain foods. Fried plantain and salt cod fritters would feature in a healthy diet but in small quantities and eaten occasionally, as both these dishes are fried. It would also mean perhaps using healthier cooking methods, such as grilling plantain instead of frying. YS: How can we ensure that we, children especially, get enough vitamin D in our diets and why is it an important vitamin? AT: Vitamin D is required for bone health and the few good dietary sources include oily fish (like mackerel, sardines, herring), eggs and foods with added vitamin D, such as some margarines and breakfast cereals. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight which reacts with exposed skin to produce vitamin D. There has been concern that about 25% of the UK population have low vitamin D levels. In severe cases this can lead to bone problems, such as rickets in children, and weak, painful and tender legs in adults (a condition known as osteomalacia). Due to darker skin tones, Africans and Caribbeans are an at-risk group for vitamin D deficiency. As such, the
Angela Tella: “Many African
and Caribbean foods including the ones you mentioned have amazing, yet unsung health benefits.
”
Department of Health recommends a daily vitamin D supplement. People on lower incomes may be eligible for free vitamin supplements through the Healthy Start scheme. YS: What are the benefits of a healthy diet and is it dependent on income? AT: A healthy diet is one which ensures your body gets all the nutrients it needs and has many benefits including better energy levels, improved concentration/mood, and better immunity. Eating healthily also reduces your risk of disease conditions like heart disease, diabetes, obesity and certain cancers, all of which have a high prevalence in African and Caribbean communities. There is a misconception that healthy eating is expensive. It is possible to eat healthily on a budget and here are a few top tips:
Frozen fruit and vegetables are as healthy as fresh varieties, cost less and count towards your 5-a-day intake. Beans and pulses are excellent sources of protein, don’t contain saturated fat and are cheaper than meat. Base meals on starchy foods like rice and pasta, which are relatively cheap and filling just mind portion sizes.
Family Matters
NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012 THE VOICE | 29
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Family Matters
30 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
1A
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Glorious gèlès
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Introducing Gèlèpoque: a new dawn for Gèlè
G
èlè Tea, the annual afternoon tea and fashion show that raises awareness of Alzheimer’s through the Gèlè (headtie/headwrap). It showcased exclusive designs for Gèlè Tea from award winning couture designers: Adebayo
Jones; Kosibah; Mayfair Couturier Clariscia Gill; Evelyn Nwajagu of Ijeve Designs; and milliner Lyze Bamigbola. Gèlè Tea is about memory and remembering people we care about. It uses Gèlè as a powerful symbol without tak-
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HOUSE OF CORRECTIONS
Supported by Hospital & Prison Action Network
ing away the cultural significance of the headtie for one looks at beauty. Gèlè Tea introduced four women acknowledged as some of the best gèlè stylists around: Juliet Esiri, Lara Extravaganza, Bolanle Okunsanya Feyita and Juliet ‘Onyeka’ Osodi. Make up artists were: internationally acclaimed Grace Ibukunoluwa of Facequizite; Juliet ‘Onyeka’ Osodi; Makeuppro, Faces of Bodin and TosynMak. One of the gèlès, The Sinem, is trending and will be used by a bride for her Caribbean wedding in December. Look out for Gèlè Tea initiatives in the year and launch of the website: www.geletea.com Engage with us on twitter: gèlè_tea Interact on Facebook: gèlè_tea 1A. Victorious in purple Model Vicky in Adebayo Jones and purple gèlè – traditional style. Jewellry: Funke Creations 1B. Butterfly collection Colourful and vibrant, the introduction of butterflies symbolises transformation, freedom and beauty. It’s for women who want to soar in the fashionista stakes. Picture: Toyin wears a blouse and high waisted trousers by Clariscia Gill. Jewellry: Dapri Jewels 2. Posh Elegance sums up this look of a posh gèlè matched with a Kosibah gown in kente oke and silk. Jewellry by JoDelyn London. Both exclusive to Gèlè Tea. Picture: Symara 3. Drama Queen It’s all good as model Samar makes a bold statement in this hat from Lyze Bamigbola and striking outfit from the Adebayo Jones collection 4. Gloriana Model Yinka in Gloriana, the glorious gèlè for the woman who is vivacious, gracious and
October 31 - November 4 )V_ 6ɉJL www.riversidestudios.co.uk
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5 proud. She wears a gown by Ijeve Designs, exclusive to Gèlè Tea Picture: Gloriana 5. The Lobho Model Siobhan, in an Ijeve designs gown, exudes confidence in this gèlè that represents timeless elegance. It’s for the woman who knows how to make a statement. Picture: lobo
FURTHER INFORMATION ON TWITTER: @alzbooks - Alzheimer’s books Posts book suggestions on Alzheimer’s and dementia. Asks for recommendations @Irememberbetter - Hilgos Foundation Posts information on arts and creativity for people with Alzheimer’s and general information. Credits photography: Segun Olotu and Studio MO. Additional credits: Lape Kannike, Abimbola Oso and Tope Kannike Martins
Family Matters
NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012 THE VOICE | 31
Model of success Beauty and brains do go together and Lorraine Pascale is a model of success, writes Yinka Sunmonu who interviews the former supermodel turned international best selling cookery writer, Chef and TV personality with two hit cookery shows behind her.
A
dopted by a white family in Oxfordshire at the age of 18 months, Lorraine Pascale has experienced a childhood that has given her experience of the foster care system and adoption. At around seven, she was placed in foster homes as her mother became ill. She says of that time, “It was fine. It could have been better but I coped.” When the subject of transracial adoption is broached and her experience as a child, she says, “It was never an issue all through my childhood. I know it sounds weird, but I wasn’t even particularly aware that I was black until I was about 7 or 8.” STABILITY Lorraine is philosophical about the matter and when asked what it takes to make a transracial placement successful, she responds, “Same as all placements - love and support.” Although she accepts that her adoption has given her a unique outlook on life, she adds, “but every child’s upbringing gives them a unique outlook on life.” It’s something to digest. What is important to her is for a child to have stability. Something she sees as “everything”. A bright child, Lorraine won a full scholarship to a boarding school in Devon. At 16, she was discovered by a talent scout in Covent Garden and before you could say hummingbird cakes, she was modelling for some of the world’s most famous designers including Chanel, Karl Lagerfield, John Galliano, Versace and Donna Karan and appearing in mega campaigns. She has modelled with Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell and has made modelling history in her own right. In March, 1994, she became the first British Black model to grace the cover of American Elle magazine. But what makes a successful
model, a supermodel, suddenly swap the catwalk and beautifully manicured fingernails for a kitchen and, in all probability, cast iron hands? “It wasn’t that sudden. I tried various other things before I discovered my love of cooking. Interior design, hypnotherapy, even car mechanics! But as soon as I enrolled at Leith’s School of Cookery, I knew I had found my passion. I loved my modelling days but I was never that passionate about modelling. It was just so exciting to find something that I was completely and utterly passionate about.” Armed with a Leiths Diploma, followed by a foundation degree in International Culinary Arts in Pastry, Lorraine furthered her experience in the kitchens of notable hotels including The Mandarin Oriental and The Wolseley. Even though her favourite ingredients are lime, mint and chillies, she says she loves “strong, bold flavours”, celebration cakes is how she started her own business after leaving the hotel industry. The long hours did not suit, nor did they fit in with caring for her daughter. She worked for a cake company and set up on her own, winning a contract in 2008 whereby her cakes were sold in Selfridges. In 2010, she returned to Covent Garden and opened up Ella’s PROMISE Bakehouse, now The Cupcake Bakehouse, where she sells beautiful cupcakes. A multi tasker, Lorraine recently completed a degree in Culinary Arts Management, graduating with first class honours. A storyteller would say that she has gone in a circle. She has returned to her fashionable home of Covent Garden, fulfilled her academic promise and is giving back to adoption and fostering. In May, she wrote a blog about her experiences for the Fostering Network during Fos-
ter Care Fortnight. A month later, she became fostering and adoption charity TACT’s first celebrity patron. “They approached me and I liked what they are doing.” She says. “I was particularly impressed by their emphasis on helping children once they get to 18 and have to leave the foster family. It can be a very isolating experience for these children. TACT helps.” TEACHING Lorraine has been busy fundraising for TACT and using her love of food to communicate with children. “I love teaching children to cook. It teaches them so much - not just about nutrition but it’s very mathematical too. I hold occasional classes for groups of children through TACT.” And now, with National Adoption Week approaching, it’s time to celebrate what is and what can be. “Do you agree that there is a between fashion and food?” I ask. “Absolutely”, is the reply, “and like fashion, food has definite trends” There is also a link between food and welcoming people and so I ask the inevitable question. What would you suggest as a two course welcome home meal for an adopted child?” “Something warm cosy and homely. “Perhaps the Slow roast, fast prep leg of lamb with Aussie Chardonnay followed by little warm Bramley apple pies.” She says. At this point, a burning question springs to mind about kitchen worked hands. What’s a good hand lotion or moisturiser? She suggests, Palmer’s Cocoa butter. COOKERY Back to food. There are plans to syndicate her show in America. “Exciting things are happening in the U.S”, she says.
And why not? Nigella is there, Jamie is there and Lorraine has made history again by becoming the most successful debut cookery writer in Britain. The Americans might compare her to B.Smith, the first African American model to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle in 1976 who has been named by Elle Décor as one of the top 10 non professional chefs in America or Giada de Laurentis who, reportedly, by some, was seen
as too much of a beauty to be a qualified chef, though she is. But ultimately, there is no comparison. Lorraine is a supermodel and a chef for real. SUCCESS Things are looking good for this celebrated chef who just keeps rising and she could return to fashion in some way. She hasn’t ruled it out saying, “Who knows? If the right thing came up, I might be tempted.” For now, she is back on
BBC2 with a new food series, ‘Fast, Fresh and Easy Food’, which is already a success. The tie-in book is doing brilliantly too. “What’s your motto?” I ask. The answer? “You can make a difference. Keep looking for it”. Lorraine Pascale’s Fast, Fresh and Easy Food, published by Harper Collins, is out now and her recipe suggestions for a celebratory adoption meal are featured in the book.
Family Matters
32 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 1 - 7, 2012
Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service Finding and supporting families for black, minority ethnic and mixed parentage babies and children
Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service was formally Adoption Black Families
We’re with you every step of the way Could you share your life with vulnerable children who may not get the chance to be adopted such as older children or brother and sister groups? If so, Mosaic Adoption and Permanency Service will provide you with extensive training and support from an experienced, friendly and responsive team, for as long as it takes. Our passionate team reflects the ethnic diversity of the families we work with.
Call 0845 603 3398 or visit actionforchildren.org.uk/adoption
Transform a child’s life and yours. Adopt Registered charity nos. 1097940/SC038092 Company no. 4764232 Produced by Action for Children 09/2012. 12/13/0128