Mojatu Magazine Derby D002

the age of 15,

have sex with men

to the UK,

women.

inject

campaign also targets

who are currently HIV-negative, and those who are considered to have high-risk sexual behaviours.

there is a lack of awareness in this age group, so uptake is lower – and 25–44-year-olds. For the 44 + age group, there is some awareness but a need to push to action.

to be eligible for PrEP you must not currently be using condoms. The research has shown that those with multiple partners and not using condoms will add PrEP to their existing risk management strategies, and couples using condoms may consider reducing their use if they took PrEP. However, those with multiple partners and using condoms are likely to remain with condoms and not use PrEP as the former protects against more than one STI.

There is some social stigma surrounding PrEP due to its association with sexual promiscuity and HIV, both of which are still considered social taboos and are a barrier to people finding out more about PrEP and potentially using it. Those having condomless-sex with multiple partners will add PrEP to existing risk management tools. Motivations may vary, but people across different relationships feel PrEP works for their situation. PrEP is accessible to everyone regardless of sexual preferences or gender identity.

HAKUNA MATATA

Pa Modou Faal

Mojatu

The

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expressed in

ensure that

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effort has been made

are accurate but

cannot take responsibility for errors,

nor can we accept responsibility for

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By Christine Nyaga & Jamie Morris

Derby has celebrated the legacy of the Windrush Generation with a day of workshops, presentations and a flag raised by the mayor.

The Britain of over seventy years ago was a profoundly different place to what we know it as today.

On 21st June, 1948, it faced the biggest wave of non-White immigration in the nation’s history, as almost half a million people from the West Indies were invited over by the British government to work in public service.

The immigrants embarked on this journey with hope for a better life, but upon arrival, they experienced a new reality where they were considered “foreigners” and made to feel as if they did not belong.

After much struggle, Britain was not only changed by these immigrants, but by their children generations later.

On 22nd June, 2022, Derby’s West Indian population came together to honour the legacy of the Windrush Generation.

The celebrations began as a flag bearing the image of the HMT Empire Windrush ship was raised

This was followed by workshops and presentations at The Italian Mill, and Windrush stories told at Derby Museum & Art Gallery for the remainder of the day.

A cake, also decorated with the image of Windrush, was cut and shared among attendees.

George Mighty, Chairman of the Derby West Indian Community Association, said: “It’s wonderful that we as a generation are celebrating the Windrush Generation, who have paved the way for us.

“Their achievements are our achievements, and I hope that future generations will continue to celebrate this day.”

In recent years, many people who had arrived in the UK as part of the Windrush Generation as children – who had worked British jobs, gone to British schools and lived in the country for decades – faced deportation.

They were denied access to health care, housing and employment.

The reason for this is the tough immigration rules that were

brought forth by former Prime Minister Theresa May.

Many among the Windrush Generation never applied for a British passport once they got into the country, because back then, children were allowed to travel on their parent’s passports – but when their parents passed away, the younger members of the Windrush Generation were left with no proof of identity.

Those affected by the Windrush scandal can seek out free information and support from the Derby West Indian Community Association by calling 01332 371529 or by sending an email to info@dwica.co.uk.

by Mayor Robin Wood in the city centre at noon.

DERBY HONOURS WINDRUSH STRUGGLES WITH “WONDERFUL” FLAG-RAISING CEREMONY

A protest has been held to amplify young Black voices in response to a series of injustices against Black children across the UK.

Organised by BLM New Gen, the demonstration took place outside of the Council House on 16th July and featured speeches from influential figures within Derby’s Black community, with a view to turn the city into a safer space for all young people. Sophie Nelson, chair of BLM New Gen, said: “We are standing here today in solidarity to take a stand against racism, to amplify young Black voices and to ensure that Derby does not stay silent when racism occurs.

“We at BLM New Gen are set on creating a safe space out of Derby where everyone can feel safe to walk on their own, to go and play football with friends, to go to school, to sit exams, to comb their hair with an afro comb and not have it mistaken for a knife, and not have to worry that the colour of their skin will impact their safety or opportunities.”

Sophie’s speech made reference to a number of recent tragedies involving Black teenagers, including the illegal strip-searching of Child Q by the Metropolitan Police, the merciless bullying of 11-year-old Raheem Bailey in Wales, and the fatal stabbing of 14-year-old Dea-John Reid in Birmingham.

Deputy Youth Mayor Gloria Osei Bonsu was one of the many participants showing their support, and spoke about the impact that these incidents have on the mental health and outcomes of young Black people across the UK.

“Looking through the statistics, you can see that among young people between the ages of 16 and 24, unemployment rates are highest among young Black people,” she said.

“This is unfair, as it is due to racism that young Black people do not feel confident enough to undertake those job roles. I would encourage you all to come together as a community to tackle racism so young Black people can feel confident to achieve their goals.”

People from all walks of life came together for the protest – something remarked on by local entrepreneur Emeka Ejiofor in his speech.

“This isn’t a Black people’s fight – this is humanity’s fight,” said the True Colours Clothing founder.

“One of the things that the system always does is bring everything down to law, but one thing they never do is bring things down to what is wrong and what is right. That, to me, is all that matters.”

In addition to the numerous guest speakers, the gathering featured evocative performances from local talent, including the Nadia Dance Group.

Sophie added that she hopes the event will signal to people that the Black Lives Matter movement is still going strong within Derby, and that BLM New Gen remains a pillar of support within the community.

“We are here for you to talk to, to bounce ideas off or to simply sit with, and we will be the ones that keep pushing for change if you get tired and deflated by it all,” she said.

“We are also making our stand today to demand justice for Dea-John Reid, because in no world should a racist attack be called self defence just because the victim is not White. Today is a reminder that black lives matter, now and always.”

Follow @blm.derby on Instagram to find out more about future events

BLM STANDS WITH BLACK TEENS FOLLOWING DEA-JOHN REID KILLING Words by Jamie Morris & photos by Iyisha Williams

A SUPERSTAR IN THE MAKING: AN INTERVIEW WITH PROFESSIONAL BOXER FRAZER MORGAN

By Tristan Best

Frazer Morgan is living proof that hard work and dedication still pay off, and is currently unbeaten as a professional boxer.

Coming out of Mackworth, Derby, Frazer is truly one of our own. He got his first professional win on 9th October 2021, followed by his second at Harvey Hadden on 26th March this year, and is looking to return to the Harvey Hadden sports village for his third win very, very soon.

It all started when Frazer was seven. “My family loves their boxing,” he told me. His dad was and still is very passionate about the sport, and his older brother Jake is also a professional boxer, so the talent runs through the family. Quite naturally!

I asked him what kind of exercise he prefers to do. “Sparring,” he said, “as it’s the closest thing to being in the actual ring, and I can test my footwork, timing and agility.” To be honest I could not have received a clearer response!

To contrast with the previous questions, I asked the boxer if he believed in lucky charms, and to my surprise he came through. He stated that when he fights, he leaves a little nine-karat gold boxing glove in his room – this seems to be working for him as he is currently two wins up, unbeaten. So i’d say keep up your ritual and practices; to keep up this correlation.

Frazer’s biggest inspiration in boxing is Floyd Mayweather. Frazer respects the fact that Mayweather has done the most in boxing, with his huge win streak and tonnes of accolades – not to mention the perks of being in a similar position as the boxing great, with the titles and endless possibilities at hand.

Frazer travels to Somercotes to do the majority of his training, and has been working with his coach Jay Shinfield for a year and ten months as of writing. On his own, you can find him running around Mackworth, really putting the work in.

Following this question, I wondered what kind of strike he prefers to use. He simply replied with “a tactical left hook to the body”. The strike would make the opponent open his guard surrounding his head, leaving Frazer with easier access –more than likely leading to a few more strikes.

I asked Frazer for an insight on how he would usually prepare himself for a fight, and he says he steps up the heat eight weeks beforehand. His more precise diet kicks in, he begins to do much more sparring, and he also does a lot of work on his techniques and bagwork preparation. All key to his successes so far!

Day in day out, constant work leads to improvement. Frazer’s constant care and patience has greatly improved his boxing skills and lifestyle. With minor and major sacrifices he has managed to excel!

Finally, I asked if he would ever consider doing any other forms of fighting. “I live for boxing,” he replied. “I don’t really aspire to ‘get into’ martial arts at this time in my life, but who knows where fighting at this high level could take me?” Only time will tell.

With time, I’m pretty sure we are going to witness the fruits of Frazer’s labour. Look out for our future champion, and support him along his journey. I hope he has a long and successful career! Remember to support your local prospects, they deserve it!

By Tristan Best

Cross

the

Victoria Mboko.

take the lead with a

settling at 6-3. The second set produced a great

with the Northern Americans taking a loss at 6-4. Mboko displaced a return shot to give the opposition a vital point, securing the first set for the Kenyan and leaving the score at 1-1.

The last set ended with a close call as Mboko struck the ball into the net, during the match point, as the score was 10-9 this secured the victory. But not for Victoria, but for the Kenyan-Dutch super duo – 3-6, 6-4, 1-0 Angella Okutoyi is only 18 years old.

The superstar has immense potential, and I personally believe if Angella keeps training hard, and putting in hours, she will eventually develop into a household name, like other great female tennis players: the famous sisters, Serena and Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova and many more – but only time will tell.

still has a lot of work to do on her solo techniques. As you’d expect, the difference between solos and duo work is substantial – as playing with a partner would slightly decrease or increase the work you have to do to succeed.

should expect to see more of her, especially competing in the next tournaments coming up.

in the break between now and future events, Angella strives to inspire as much youth as possible; by going to different schools, with a goal to encourage young people to take up sport, and to spread the joy that comes with it.

A LOOK AT DERBY COUNTY’S LEAGUE ONE TRAGEDY

By Tristan Best

Derby County Football Club is a noble and respectable club, known for their striking black and white football kits – and their unfortunately terrible Premier League season in 2007.

They sat at the very bottom of the table with 11 points from 38 games, with one win, eight draws and 29 losses. Since then, the team has nearly managed to get back to the first tier multiple times, but last season the entire city, not just the club, got punished for the previous empowered people’s wrongdoings.

Now the club currently sits 23rd/24 on the Championship table, dropping them down to the third tier, due to the club having 21 points deducted from them, which would’ve helped the club stay in the second tier.

The team were handed a 12-point reduction in September 2021, and a further nine-point deduction on 16th November 2021.

This was due to the club entering administration – cases where the owners/paying sources are unable to pay outstanding debts owed to various individuals like or such as players, businesses and employees.

On 16th November, the nine points were taken due to the club breaching EFL Accounting rules, and these actions ultimately lead to the fall of the club.

Who was at fault, you ask? Most will firmly state it is Mel Morris, who is individually held accountable for

this downfall, but I’d like to point a finger towards the EFL for not partaking in correct procedures surrounding individuals buying clubs and background checks.

All other procedures should be explored before allowing such a prestigious role and responsibility to fall to incapable individuals.

People love their football clubs, whether it’s a non-league team or a giant. So when their clubs start to fall below expectations, they stress.

Imagine how Derby fans feel after having such a turbulent journey with the club recently, especially after seeing their greatest rivals win promotion – Nottingham Forest!

Derby started their league one campaign with a bang, first by beating Oxford United with a highly anticipated Conor Hourihane goal at the 80th minute.

The general stats represent the entirety of the game, but from reading them you would assume Derby dominated, which wasn’t the case. Oxford pressed in the first half, causing Derby’s keeper, Joe Wildsmith, a lot of uncertainty and also prompting Jason Knight to make a great challenge on Matty Taylor as he closed in on goal.

Derby had the better of the chances though, as they had double the shots on target in contrast to Oxford United.

With a 58 percentile grasp, the following match against Charlton Athletic was a disappointing affair

on the Rams’ behalf, a game where they managed to overall dominate the possession stats (60 to 40%).

Unfortunately, they fell short, only landing 2/15 shots on target, whilst Charlton player Corey BlackettTaylor scored the only goal in the 62nd minute – a low blow for the sunken side.

Derby made some changes to try to bounce back, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case; Sibley for Smith 55th, Dobbin for Barkhuizen 70th, and finally Forsyth for Roberts in the 84th minute.

What will the future look like for our local team?

In the first round of the EFL Cup our Derby stood up, fortunately dealing defeat to our neighbours Mansfield Town, 2-1.

An Elliot Hewitt own goal set the Rams off to a good start, 30 minutes in. Following this, The Stags managed to pull the game back, making the score even, 1-1.

After that, Barkhuizen netted for us on the 69th minute, causing an urgency for the Stags to attempt to equalise, which did not happen on this night, with Bowery receiving a Red card on the 80th minute.

Final score, 2-1. The Rams onto round 2!

For us to voice your thoughts on the club’s future fixtures, email tristan@ kutambua.com

Let’s hope for a good season ahead!

TRAVEL & WORK FOR THE PRICE OF TRANSPORT ALONE

The secret behind work exchange -

Travelling has become easier since the introduction of work exchanges.

Also referred to as work travel or voluntourism, work exchange programmes are a great way to travel on a budget while sharing abilities and free time in return for accommodation.

Work exchange is most commonly an informal agreement made between two parties; hosts are in search of workers; travellers are in search of accommodation and life-changing experiences. All the travellers need to do is travel to the place. When you do work exchange, not only are you able to see the world but also to learn the real value of money.

Depending on the host’s specifics, perhaps even food and other benefits like living amongst natives who can provide an authentic experience and the best advice about the best local foods, what to see and where to visit are all included. Getting an authentic taste of life in a new place isn’t all you gain, learning new languages, experiencing different cultures, learning new skills, connecting with other like-minded travellers from all over the world are just some of the advantages. You also get to learn and understand how to manage working life in unfamiliar places that often force you out of your comfort zone. Hosts sometimes require certain qualifications or work experience for the work involved previous references from other hosts also help the host to get a better idea of the traveller and the types of work they’ve done previously. Specialised tasks such as photography/ videography for example, might require a higher level of experience. Receptionist work, cleaning, caring for animals and duties that are easily learned generally do not require any kind of previous experience other than the will to learn and contribute.

Keeping in mind that life experience is also valued. This means experience gained through spending time caring for younger family members will help when you decide to assist in an orphanage due to previous informal experience. Those carrying out an exchange are often in a foreign country to their own and are

By Ophelie Lawson

looking for a financially friendly experience with local organisations.

Those in search of such an opportunity usually discover them through other travellers, locals, and through platforms such as Worldpackers, WWOOF (worldwide opportunities and organic farms) and Workaway. Through such platforms you’re able to access important details provided by the host themselves so you’re aware of exactly what is required before committing, these companies also enable you to locate fellow members and read previous travellers reviews or contact those who have visited in the past.

The interesting thing about work exchange is that you’re able to gain insight into such a variety of different fields that are otherwise rare to come across unless you’ve studied that specific trade. An example of a typical work exchange is through hostels, in which the traveller would usually be expected to greet guests, manage the checking in and out of the hostel, assisting with advising visitors. Many of the hosts provide really out of the ordinary lodging opportunities like camping, living on a boat, living on a farm or in a caravan.

From learning to build with mud in Thailand, studying multiple species of Mushroom in The Himalayas or building cenotes in Mexico, work exchanges offer many different kinds of experiences. For those who want to discover new continents like Africa, work exchanges are a good way to do so.

Most hosts were travellers before they became hosts, which means they are most able to provide an atmosphere that is beneficial to others and are most able to be empathetic during challenging times that perhaps only a traveller could comprehend. Regardless of the kind of help you can provide or your skill set, the most vital asset you can possess is a genuine desire to contribute and collaborate with your host. This will enable you to get the most out of it, and get you positive reviews from your host, which will help with future opportunities.

Work exchanges are without a doubt, the best way to significantly reduce travel cost and travel on a budget. This is the biggest benefit that ultimately, you can get to travel in exchange for work.

Work exchanges are all about connecting and sharing; connecting with natives, the land and other likeminded travellers who see the importance of giving back to the country that they have the benefit of experiencing. Work exchanges are about adventure, exploration and having the opportunity to share skills, language, culture and ideas that bring us together.

By Jamie Morris & Tristan Best

Academic, activist and lifelong Derby local Cecile Wright shares how the tenacity of the Caribbean community propelled her towards educational success…

Mojatu: What was it like growing up in Derby?

Cecile: I lived in a part of Derby where there were other children of a Caribbean background whose parents, like mine, were of the Windrush Generation. Many of the adults came from the same place in Jamaica, and there was a sense of belonging that cushioned us from some of the negative experiences of living in Normanton, as we experienced a considerable amount of racism and name-calling.

I’m the eldest of nine children and, for periods of time, we were on free school meals. My mother was a nurse and my father initially worked for British Rail before establishing his own haulage business.

Mojatu: What role does your Caribbean heritage continue to play in your life today?

Cecile: It defines my character, my outlook and my values – and how I’ve gone on to achieve educationally and ultimately become the first Black female professor in the East Midlands.

It also provides resilience, which I think is essential for minority communities. In Caribbean culture, education is considered a form of capital currency that can be used to shape one’s life. My academic work has shown that, even though their experience of schooling can be negative, young people from Caribbean communities will continue to pursue positive educational outcomes – so their participation in further and higher education is at odds

with their negative experience during the compulsory educational stage.

Mojatu: When did you decide that you wanted to become involved in politics?

Cecile: It came from seeing the struggles of the community around me, but more fundamentally, seeing the solutions that they were able to garner in order to meet their needs.

In my late teens, I became the secretary of the Derby West Indian Community Association, so through my voluntary work I was able to appreciate that it was a case of not just accepting the situation, but wanting to change and transform it.

My first formal involvement in politics was when I became a member of the National Union of Students –my formal union activism became the impetus to then embark upon politics, and part of that was joining the Labor Party in my twenties.

Mojatu: What makes you proud to be from Derby?

Cecile: The supportive networks in Derby should be acknowledged – certainly within the ethnic minority communities, and indeed the wider demographics within the city.

Derby is a relatively small city, but with greater investment, we can build upon the great cultural venues that we currently have.

Derby has vibrant communities and we are very honoured to participate in some of the spectacular and engaging events that help to build community cohesion, such as the West Indian Carnival and other annual events within the city.

For Put media.

CECILE WRIGHT: AN INTERVIEW WITH THE EAST MIDLANDS’ FIRST BLACK FEMALE PROFESSOR

By Jamie Morris

This summer saw the revival of Derby’s Caribbean Carnival following a three-year hiatus –here’s how the long-awaited day went down…

Radiant sunshine, pounding music, beautiful costumes and a joyous crowd to experience it all with –these are the key components of a memorable Caribbean Carnival. However, this year’s Carnival was more than just the sum of its parts, marking the return of a palpable sense of community spirit that has been lying dormant within our city for the past three years, as people came in droves to celebrate together.

The event – the result of the painstaking efforts made by the Derby West Indian Community Association – has been a summertime staple for nearly six decades, but was a necessary albeit unfortunate sacrifice in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

DWICA board member Cecile Wright, one of the many smiling faces in attendance, suggested that the huge turnout could be a silver lining of Carnival’s extended absence.

“Because there were three years of not having a Carnival in person, it might have galvanised people to come out and participate – and it has been tremendous,” she said.

“This event denotes legacy, unity, multiculturalism and diversity at its best in Derby. I have attended many over the decades, but I have to say, this has been the most spectacular.”

The procession of themed troupes from around the country marched from Cathedral Green for hours before reaching the fair at Osmaston Park, where they competed in a dance-off. (Naturally, Derby’s own Cultural Roots Carnival Troupe came out on top.)

Yet, for the hard-working crew at DWICA, this journey goes back much further than simply what attendees saw on the day.

The preparation process spans months, as volunteers are hired, performers are trained, health and safety policies are carefully scrutinised and a team of designers led by Samantha Hudson – aka Sam Carnival – bring the stunning costumes to life.

Furthermore, Chairman George Mighty explained that bringing back the Carnival for 2022 was not merely a case of picking up where they left off and proceeding as usual.

Over the course of the pandemic, some of the services DWICA has previously relied on went out of business, meaning there were difficulties securing the performance stage and the generators that power the travelling sound system.

Nonetheless, this year has been a success.

“In Derby, we always have a Carnival without problems and I’m pleased to say that this year was no different,” Mr. Mighty said.

“We had to overcome a lot of hurdles – the volunteers and marshals are so committed.

“Sometimes people just look at the end product and ignore the process, but it wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers. I think it went very well and I am extremely pleased.”

BACK ON THE ROAD: CARNIVAL ‘22 HAILED AS BEST IN DECADES AFTER POST-COVID COMEBACK

STABBING SURVIVOR TEE MLAUZI CHANNELS EXPERIENCE INTO IMPACTFUL SHORT FILM

By Jamie Morris

We speak to director Mthabisi Mlauzi, aka Tee, about how growing up around gang violence led to the creation of his debut short, The Gift.

The Gift is unmistakably set in Derby – but perhaps not the Derby you’re familiar with. The landmarks featured in this 10-minute crime film have been warped almost beyond recognition into a dark and gritty representation of the city’s criminal underbelly, as protagonist Sam makes one final drug deal in order to finance his daughter’s birthday present. Chief among these uncanny echoes of Normanton and the city centre is a sight known to anyone throughout Derby: the neon “TO SEE BETTER DAYS” sign, installed above the Spot as a beacon of hope for a high street still reeling from the impact of lockdown. In The Gift, however, this message could just as easily end with a question mark, as it takes on a more personal meaning tinged by tragic irony. Is a brighter future really on the horizon for Sam, or – as the recurring countdown motifs in the film suggest – is his time almost up?

“I didn’t want it to look normal,” explains 26-year-old director Tee Mlauzi. “It’s not a normal life to be selling drugs and going down that path. A lot of people perceive England to be a dystopia, and it’s completely different to how other people see the world around them. That’s why you see some of these young people going around wearing balaclavas – because their reality isn’t like ours.”

Hill, surrounded by gang violence. “There was a guy who got shot in my area, and I played football with him literally the same day he died,” he says. “I grew up around gang members, drugs and violence, but my family kind of kept to ourselves. It could’ve been language barriers – numerous things kept us locked in our own little place.”

Years later, after moving to Coventry to study civil engineering, Tee came back to Derby to celebrate his 21st birthday and was stabbed in a racially-motivated attack. “I got stabbed twice, so the guy was really going for me,” he recalls. “I went through depression and was questioning a lot of things in my life because I felt like I could have died. ‘Am I in the right place? Where do I need to go?’”

For Tee, The Gift is an expression of the darker side of Derby he was exposed to throughout his childhood. Originally from Zimbabwe, he came to the UK as an asylum seeker aged nine, and grew up in Sunny

Tee instinctively turned to photography for solace. “When I was taking a picture, it was between me and the subject in front of me – and that’s all that mattered,” he says. From there, his newfound passion evolved into a career in filmmaking, as he gradually found opportunities to capture weddings and shoot music videos. What’s more, Tee dropped out of his civil engineering course to study film at the University of Derby, cementing his commitment to this new path. “Trying to convince my family that this was now what I wanted to do was a journey in itself,” he laughs.

Tee tapped into the network he had built from making music videos to assemble the cast and crew of his first narrative short film, The Gift. “I’m used to working with people who are first time actors or people who haven’t got that much experience,” he explains. “The lead, James Nyatoro, is a musician I’ve worked with, and I’ve always seen the potential in him to do film.”

Based on the lived experiences of Tee and those around him, the film is a frenetic, fleeting thriller that draws inspiration from a broad legacy of crime fiction, from The Wire to The Batman – but transforming Derby into his own Gotham City would prove a challenge.

While the owner of the corner shop featured in the film was happy for Tee to use his space, others were less willing. “You don’t know who to ask and most of the

time, as soon as they see you, it’s just, ‘Put your camera away’,” Tee says, suggesting a venue-booking system would be of benefit to Derby’s creative scene. “Getting space is quite tough, and there isn’t really anywhere that can point you in the right direction.”

Despite these difficulties, Tee’s commitment to his artistic vision resulted in a finished product that went down a storm at its Repton FilmFest premiere, with audience members sharing that the film had given them a new perspective. “I’m so happy, especially going to Repton and seeing the kind of area it is,” Tee says. “It was good for me to raise awareness of what people are going through right next door.”

Although the film depicts Tee’s negative experiences of Derby, he still loves the city and wants The Gift to be a vehicle for positive change. “I never thought I’d find another place that I’d call home until I came here,” he says. “Derby’s making good changes, and I hope people who are living the lifestyle that Sam’s living in the film see it and start to go towards a more focused and brighter side of their life.”

The Gift is available to watch on YouTube

We talk to the duo behind the wacky agoraphobia short Aaron and The Wizard, after it won Best in Category at Repton FilmFest…

Mojatu: How did you meet?

Wesley Gee: We were both at uni – I was playing the piano, and Leon came and sat with me, and he says, “What are we playing, then?”

Leon Chrimes: I can’t play any musical instruments, so it was an empty self-invitation, because I knew I wouldn’t be able to do anything – and that’s pretty much how we make films together.

Mojatu: How do you know when you want to turn one of your ideas into a film?

LC: As we’ve gotten older and left uni, we’ve had less chance to hang out with each other. So, when we do have time, it’s like, “Let’s make a film together – and we have today to make this”.

WG: If it’s an idea that I can think about for long enough without hating it, and it makes me laugh as I’m thinking of it, that’s usually a good go-ahead to commit to it.

Mojatu: So you make the films that you’d want to watch?

LC: For me, it’s to make the films I’d have fun making. Most of the creative element comes from Wes – he’s usually the one directing and editing, and I’m just having fun being there.

WG: It’s not necessarily the ones I’d want to see – it’s the ones I’d otherwise never see. That drives me.

Mojatu: What made you decide to include a mental health theme in your latest film?

LC: I found something on YouTube called Puff the Magic Dragon, and I thought it’d be funny to do a spoof of that. How can we get a magical character to interact

MOVIE MAGIC: AN INTERVIEW WITH COMEDY FILMMAKERS LEON CHRIMES AND WESLEY GEE

By Jamie Morris

with a “little boy” character, even though I’m a grown man? So we needed a character that needed help.

WG: The “boys don’t talk” moment was something I pulled out of a hat at the last minute. It’s such a key part of society now that, if you’re making a film, those undertones are going to work their way into it.

Mojatu: There’s a scene where you’re performing a musical number on the bus. Was the driver in on it?

LC: Not at all. Wes, dressed as the wizard, just got on that bus and sang. You got quite a few funny looks, right?

WG: I actually got treated better while I was dressed as the wizard – some guy said, “Good luck, whatever you’re doing”. We got a lot of positive reinforcement.

Mojatu: Where did you shoot the film?

LC: It was filmed in Creswell, where Wes hails from.

WG: It’s a small village, about forty minutes from Derby. It’s a relatively quiet place where you can dress as a wizard without much backlash. The final scene is filmed at an archaeological dig site, Creswell Crags, where I work.

Mojatu: Do you feel like this project has been a success?

LC: This film feels like it’s taken off more than previous ones, and it’s been really nice to have a wider circle of people engage with what we’re making. I hope from here on out, people are more invested in our work.

WG: For me, this film is evidence that you can make a film purely for fun, and other people will watch it and enjoy it just as much. I don’t know if it’ll get any bigger from here, but no matter what happens, it’s symbolic that we’re getting better at it.

Aaron and The Wizard is available to watch on YouTube

KENDRICK LAMAR RELEASES GHANA VISIT DOCUMENTARY ALONGSIDE NEW ALBUM

By Jamie Morris

Rapper Kendrick Lamar has teamed up with Spotify for a short film chronicling his time in Accra.

Lamar spent a week in Ghana’s capital ahead of the release of his fifth studio album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, and held a private listening event there alongside Ghanaian artists Black Sherif, Amaarae and Stonebwoy. While only four minutes long in total, his new documentary, A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar, gives us an idea of how the Humble rapper chose to spend his first ever trip to the West African nation.

“I couldn’t even tell you what day it is,” says a laid-back Lamar in the film. “I’m just being in the moment.”

The footage, available for free on Spotify’s YouTube channel, includes the Compton-born MC watching street boxing, playing board games and taking photos with locals. He also visits Freedom Skate Park, a disused hospital transformed into a young people’s hub by American fashion designer Virgil Abloh before his untimely death due to cancer in November 2021.

“Virgil, what he means to them, as far as letting them have this creative

space to enjoy themselves – that’s special,” he remarks.

In the following scene on Laboma beach, Lamar opens up about the themes of self-care present across his latest album.

“To challenge myself to go to therapy…that’s like a whole new step in a whole new generation,” he shares with the locals. “That’s growth.”

With this being his first solo album since the Pulitzer Prize-winning Damn in 2017, anticipation would easily have been high enough to warrant listening events on the same scale as those held by Kanye West in 2020 – but it’s possible that Lamar’s decision to spend the album rollout in an idyllic setting 7,400 miles away from home was another means of him looking after his own mental health.

Lamar isn’t the only star from the US to recently find solace in Ghana. R&B singer Ari Lennox said she woke up every morning with “peace and happiness” when she went last December, and Chance the Rapper is already planning his return after also visiting for the first time earlier this year.

It’s not the first time that Spotify has put the spotlight on the

country, either. In March, the music streaming giant released a short film about the Ghanaian music scene, alongside a 48-track playlist titled Free Forever.

At the end of Lamar’s film, he suggests that his pilgrimage has given him a sense of kinship with his Ghanaian brothers and sisters. “Everything that we do out here –everything that we say, everything that’s been done – it’s all a representation of all of us.”

Kendrick Lamar is currently on tour in promotion of his new album and will be playing at venues across the UK from 2nd-16th November

UP-AND-COMING ARTISTS GET THE SPOTLIGHT AT REIMAGINE FESTIVAL

An indoor, locally-sourced music festival was held by BLM New Gen at the Tramshed on 23rd July.

Although the venue was particularly tricky to find, it didn’t disappoint – the room was calmly lit, with a welcoming, familyorientated vibe. The sound system was great, loud and clear. Most of the instrumentals held great clarity, with the odd one or two needing a few minor adjustments.

The vocals were matched equally as good for each individual artist and all were unique in their own way. The seating arrangement was also good, allowing everyone to have space, and even a chance to dance.

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By Tristan Best

The second artist was Loue Marc, a bold and lively character. He came onto the stage wearing an England print balaclava, and his music orientated around mental health and how the modern atmosphere can affect young people; mainly in a grimy hip-hop sense. With confidence, he brought punchy lyrics and his beats were memorable and catchy. His third song was a good vibe for all, and it clicked more with the audience.

a dance for his first song and got everyone on their feet. He brought loads of energy to his performance – he had a good, clear and direct voice, which made it enjoyable as his lyrics were great. He did himself a great favour getting everybody involved as it helped him stand out and made everyone feel great and ready for whatever plans they might have for the evening ahead.

The fifth artist was Mase J, who brought a slower tempo and a nice change of style into the room. His instrumentals included vibrant instruments that set a dark tone. He and his sister performed the second song and her higher vocals matched the feeling and aura of the music, which I thought worked very well.

However, I do believe the artists should create their own kind of business card(s), allowing people to easily access their social media accounts; Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and Twitter.

The first artist was Niamh Toner, who performed hip hop and R&B music. Niamh was confident and seemed to be comfortable singing and performing in front of a crowd. She had a strong, clear voice, and she delivered directly to everyone in the room. This talented singer managed to pull the audience in and was a great opener.

The third artist was Pheenix, who performed original songs with a melodic tone, with them mainly being party songs and love songs. They were catchy and could be seen as similar to some of the modern mainstream music played everywhere (afrobeat style). He used his spotlight to show his love, as his last song was a love song dedicated to his girlfriend near the front of the crowd.

The sixth and final artist called herself Cheeb. She had a really nice voice, she performed two of her own songs followed by a cover of Baby One More Time by Britney Spears, which made for a perfect twist for the night. She performed with her guitar, so the whole room enjoyed the switch in tempo and tune.

DJ Sapphire finished off the night with some modern mainstream music, topping off a really good night overall. It was very energetic and worth the watch and listen.

Everyone was really kindhearted and the hosts of the night did a great job – the atmosphere was welcoming and good for new people to adjust and make new friends. I look forward to attending any future events!

The fourth artist was Tdot, a 20-year-old rapper. As soon as he got his chance, he taught everyone

ZERO HIV CAMPAIGN URGES PEOPLE TO “STAY PREPARED” WITH SIMPLE PREVENTION TABLET

By Jamie Morris

A new campaign has been launched to raise awareness of a lesser-known yet potentially lifechanging means of preventing HIV.

Titled “Stay PrEPared”, the project is centred around a tablet-based medicine called pre-exposure HIV prophylaxis – or PrEP, for short.

The campaign forms part of Derbyshire Community Health Services’ wider goal of achieving zero HIV transmissions by 2030.

Who is PrEP for?

PrEP is intended to be taken by people who do not have HIV, but could be at risk of contracting it.

These at-risk groups include men who have sex with men, transgender women, sex workers, people who inject drugs, and anyone with a HIV-positive partner.

In addition, Black heterosexual people and migrants to the UK may also both be at risk.

But don’t worry – if you fall into any of these groups and are over the age of 15, you could be eligible for a free prescription from your local sexual health clinic.

How can I access PrEP?

At your appointment – which can be booked via phone – you’ll be asked about your sexual and medical history before doing some tests to check if you’re eligible.

You’ll be given a follow-up appointment around two weeks later and, if you’re eligible, PrEP tablets will be supplied by the clinic for free.

Normally, you’ll be asked to attend further appointments every three months for follow-up tests, where

you’ll receive three more months worth of PrEP tablets. It’s also important to still have regular STI screenings every three months.

Why should I use PrEP?

PrEP is accessible to everyone regardless of your sexual preferences or gender identity, and works for a whole range of different relationships – be that long-term or short-term, exclusive or open.

The small, blue tablet is easy to incorporate into your sex life, and can even lead to greater intimacy between partners by reducing any anxiety either of you may have around contracting HIV.

For more information on PrEP and to book an appointment to discuss starting a course of PrEP, please call the information and booking line on 0800 328 3383

FIVE TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER & HAPPIER RELATIONSHIP

By Jamie Morris

Mojatu is teaming up with FMB Radio, Fearless Youth Association and Utulivu Women’s Group to launch a project promoting healthy relationships among young people. The eight-week social media campaign will cover a different key aspect of healthy relationships each week, encouraging people to treat themselves and their partners with respect.

Erin O’Donoghue of FYA said: “It’s vital that young people can recognise an unhealthy relationship.

“We’re hoping this campaign will give young people the skills and confidence to remove themselves from those relationships.”

Terry Njoki of FMB Radio added: “People who have healthy relationships are more likely to feel happier and satisfied with their lives, and less likely to have physical and mental health problems.”

“The strength of community lies in the strength of the connections that we have with each other. Building these connections takes time, but it is worth it.”

Here’s an introduction to five of the campaign’s topics that you can incorporate into your own relationships.

1. Respect each other’s values

One of the topics at the core of the campaign is that of our individual values: the (often intangible) things that we consider to be important to us.

Our values shape how we see the world and how we behave, and research shows that people are happier when they pay more attention to the things that they value than when they are being influenced by external factors such as materialism or status.

Therefore, it’s crucial that we don’t feel pressured to go against

our values in a relationship, nor pressure others to do the same.

2. Be a positive bystander

Another key concept addressed by the Healthy Relationships project is what it means to be a ‘positive bystander’.

At some point in our lives, we will all bear witness to something that goes against our values.

A positive bystander, however, takes it upon themselves to be more than just a witness and actively tries to improve the situation.

How we react will vary depending on what is possible and what is safe.

Sometimes, we aren’t always able to immediately challenge the person at fault, but we can help afterwards by supporting anyone who has been affected, telling someone we trust or reporting illegal activity to the police.

3. Know your rights

From the moment we are born up until the day we die, all people are entitled to a series of fundamental human rights, regardless of our age, gender, ethnicity or sexuality.

Under the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, you have the right to an identity, privacy, an opinion, relaxation and protection from abuse or exploitation.

We may often take these rights for granted, but some things – such as strong emotions and stress – can lead us to undermine the rights of ourselves or others in a relationship. It’s important to take a moment to notice if anyone’s rights are being violated, to consider how we can change the situation, and to talk about finding a solution with our partner or someone else we trust.

4. Don’t conform to gender stereotypes

Although they might often seem

harmless, expectations around how males and females should behave can be harmful. They can prevent people from expressing themselves and cause problems in relationships, and many people will go along with them without questioning them. It can be difficult to challenge gender stereotypes because we are often exposed to things that reinforce them, whether it’s something we’ve seen portrayed in the media or the behaviour of our peers and family.

As part of the campaign, we will be urging people to approach depictions of gender with a critical mindset, and – if you feel safe and comfortable enough to do so – speak more openly about what we really think about these stereotypes.

5. Communicate effectively Good communication creates an environment where we can be respectful of each other’s feelings and helps us to avoid misunderstandings.

Unfortunately, strong emotions and fears of how people might react can serve as a barrier to effective communication and lead us to bottle up how we really feel. When communicating with our partners, it is important to give them our full attention, take time to reflect and use sympathetic, non-accusatory language.

Learn more by following @ mojatuderby, @mojatu_foundation, @fya_notts, @fmbradio and @ utulivurdg on Instagram

LONELINESS AND MENTAL HEALTH

By Karen Modupe

Peplau and Perlam in 1982 suggested that loneliness is the disparity between one’s intended interpersonal relationship compared to the actual relationships they already have. Humans are inherently social beings that thrive in small units hence loneliness is an unpleasant emotional response to the feeling of being isolated or alone.

Most times loneliness creates a feeling of emptiness, unwantedness, unworthiness, and the feeling of not being loved. It is described as the equivalent of physical pain, hunger or thirst which yearns for social connection in order to maintain the formation of social connections needed for the survival of our genes. Hence when one feels lonely, there is usually the urge to reach out to or reconnect with someone.

In 2018, Cigna conducted a national survey, and it was discovered that the level of loneliness had reached an all-time high. The research indicated that almost half of 20,000 U.S adults sometimes or always feel alone. Forty per cent of participants also mentioned that the relationships they have with people are not meaningful and often feel isolated.

If loneliness is not attended to, it could affect our physical health; for example, hypertension, coronary heart disease (mainly amongst women) and our mental health, leading to certain mental health conditions such as depression, sleep problems, anxiety, and low selfesteem, low self-confidence.

What can cause loneliness?

Low self-esteem is often characterised by a lack of selfconfidence and feeling bad about oneself and often exhibiting the feeling of being unlovable or incomplete or awkward. These ill feelings that one thinks about themselves often make them hesitant to engage with other people, and even if they do, they do not feel worthy enough of other people’s time and attention this brings about having fewer intimate relationships with people thereby increasing loneliness.

Lack of self-assertiveness; being self-assertive is to be able to stand up for one’s rights and that of others politely without passively accepting wrong. When an individual lacks assertiveness and decides to be passive-aggressive instead of

assertive, then it is difficult to build or maintain intimate relationships which invariably increases the feeling of loneliness.

Social anxiety is also known as social phobia. It is the feeling of being nervous in engaging in social behaviours such as going out on a date or attending a party, etc. Feeling nervous about certain activities such as giving a presentation is normal, but when one begins to feel anxious, self-conscious, embarrassed, or overly worried toward everyday interactions depicts social anxiety. Being anxious around people all the time makes it more difficult to make new relationships or maintain existing relationships, thereby increasing loneliness.

Trauma is an emotional response sustained like anxiety or fear due to a distressing event such as bereavement. Losing a loved one can suddenly induce the feeling of being lonely. Due to fear of losing a loved one, people also find themselves detaching from people they love because of the hurt of experiencing loss. Again, if a child was abused by a specific gender, there is every tendency for that child to withdraw from similar genders hence reducing social connections and in turn becoming lonely.

Values confusion: personal values go a long way to defining who we really are. They are the characters and behaviours that motivate and guide our decisions and actions. Being around people with whom we share the same values is a way to engage with people, which helps to reduce loneliness. In the event that one’s values are confusing, it is easy to identify with people who have conflicting values thereby feeling disconnected and very lonely.

Poor self-awareness: self-awareness is the ability to be conscious of one’s individuality, thoughts, actions, and emotions. With poor self-awareness, one begins to experience more negative emotions due to the inability to properly align one’s reactions or thoughts to a situation. Feeling disconnected from oneself due to poor self-awareness could increase the feeling of loneliness.

Read the full article here: https:// mojatufoundation.org/mental-health/

From lemons to gem squash, these tasty foods are abundant in health benefits.

The key to a healthy life is finding things you enjoy that will also make you function better. As a human being, you cannot possibly function purely on sources that have been processed. You need a natural source of vitamins and minerals to make you more content, and to therefore perform better, whether it’s for physical activities or simply your workplace endeavours. Below are just a few of the vegetables I like to try to fit into my diet on a regular basis.

Sweet potato

Sweet potatoes are free from cholesterol, fat and gluten, and are also a good source of fibre and low in sodium. They are said to help strengthen your immune system, support your digestion, and contain anti-inflammatory properties.

The sweet potato is cultivated in tropical and warm temperate climates, closer to the equator –especially in places like Central and Southern America. However, you can more than likely purchase a hybridised type of plant that’ll suit the UK temperature better, meaning you’ll be able to grow the plant over here.

Gem squash

HEALTH IS WEALTH:

Six fruits & vegetables you should incorporate into your diet -

is a very good source of protein, vitamin A, thiamine, niacin, phosphorus and copper, just to name a few.

There’s a plentiful range of gem squash cultivars, but my favourite in particular is the rolet gem squash. This particular heirloom strain comes from South Africa, and is a hard-working plant which grows massive and yields rapidly in the correct climate.

Unfortunately the gem squash is a seasonal treat that can be hard to find, and the last time my family were able to have this was this summer when my mum had been able to grow some in our back garden with all the hot weather.

The gorgeous plant has bright yellow flowers of which blossom into dark green tennis ball-like fruits, and is sought after due to its texture and forgiving flavour, which you can adjust yourself to become either sweet or savoury. This makes it a treat guest in any roast dish. This fabulous fruit is grown in the Americas and in other tropical climates, so if you ever get the chance to try it out, don’t turn it away. The great food is undoubtedly a super source of vital vitamins and mega minerals.

Bell pepper

This vegetable is low in saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol, and

There seem to be hundreds of varieties when it comes to peppers, whether they are spicy, sweet or even somewhere in between. You

By Tristan Best

have your common bell peppers, chilli peppers and jalapenos…I could go on and on.

Your average red bell pepper has never really been average – in fact, it’s as exotic as it gets. This packed fruit is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and fibre, and is known to be an excellent antioxidant said to help protect the human body from cardio-vascular disease and some types of cancers.

Peppers of all sorts are grown all over the world, especially in constant warmer climates in places such as China, Indonesia and Mexico, while also being grown in the USA, Spain and Turkey. It’s good for a plentiful range of different meals and specialties, pizzas, stirfrys and even just stuffed bell peppers.

According to FreshProduce.com’s top 20 fruits and vegetables list, bell peppers alone are the 5th most consumed vegetable in the USA.

Lemon

Did you know lemons are a super healer? They are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are essential for human health. Researchers suggest that the fruit’s flavonoids – a type of phytonutrient that protects cells from oxidative damage which could lead to diseases – are great at combating dementia and cardiovascular disease.

Lemons are really underrated, and can be used in many different ways,

including on fish and in herbal remedies. Let’s not forget that its rind is used in a plentiful array of dishes – in baking, cooking and even in cocktails.

Banana

with ulcers and colitis. Bananas are a crazy, expandable fruit. I know people who even eat bananas with bacon – an exciting sweet and salty combination, which I myself would not experiment with! Versatile fruits will always be more relevant due to the presence they have in your household. Bananas are more than likely in your smoothies too, as they blend together well with most fruits and other supplements added, like cucumber and flax seeds.

C, just like your usual citric fruits. However, they also contain large traces of vitamin K and potassium, along with many other great contents hidden beneath and in its skin.

Funnily enough, grapes are also full of water which may help you keep hydrated. Additional benefits include reducing high cholesterol, helping to maintain brain health and slowing down ageing. And don’t forget, they are high in sugar!

Bananas are renowned for containing a great amount of potassium, which helps your body control your blood pressure and heart rate. At the same time, the fruit contains a good amount of fibre which will ease and assist in your bowel movements, and helps

Grapes

But enjoy them as you would! Rather indulge in sweet natural treats like grapes and pineapples rather than a synthetic sweet/ candy from the store!

Grapes are also high in vitamin

& WORK WITH

Come and join the Estates and Facilities Team! We are a vibrant and diverse team, responsible for looking after the beautiful campuses of University of Nottingham and are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and customer focused people to provide an excellent experience to our wide range of customers.

We have a mix of positions available for cleaners, catering assistants, bar staff and many other roles in our halls of residence, university buildings and Café’s, over a range of hours and days that are flexible and could fit around your family and other commitments.

The University of Nottingham has been providing an outstanding student experience for over 140 years and is a leading university of worldwide significance with established campuses in UK, China and Malaysia. Our award-winning sites at University Park and Jubilee Campus are only 15 minutes by bus or tram to Nottingham city centre.

THE ULTIMATE PARED Down Skin Care Routine with Only 3 Products

By Beth Ann Maye

The skin is you r body’s largest and most visible organ. No wonder so many people prioritize skin care. According to Statista, 1.68 million people in the U.S. spent at least $500 on skin care products during the last 3 months of 2020. But what if experts told you that it doesn’t take a vanity full of pricey products to give your skin exactly what it needs?

“We don’t believe in dumping the kitchen sink at people’s skin,” says Morgana Colombo, MD, FAAD and a co-founder of Skintap. “We believe in using things that are needed and have good active ingredients that have proven efficacy.” Though those ingredients may vary from person to person, the building-block products remain the same.

Here’s what a pair of dermatologists say everyone needs to care for their skin. They also dished on niceto-haves and items you can skip.

Must-have skin care products

Angelo Landriscina, MD, FAAD, says it’s easy to complicate things with so many products out there. When it comes to skin care, more isn’t always merrier. You “can actually make your skin worse by using too many products,” he says.

A morning skin care routine is as easy as 1-2-3 (products). Landriscina advises people to apply the following three products in this order in the morning: cleanser, moisturiser, sunscreen Landriscina says you can ditch the sunscreen at night and simply reapply cleanser and moisturiser.

Cleanser

Landriscina and Colombo agree that it’s essential to wash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser before applying any other products. This allows you to start with a clean slate and prevents other products from washing off.

Landriscina suggests keeping it basic and avoiding something that strips the skin. However, figuring out what that means for you may not be an exact science. “It’s a trial and error thing,” he says. Plus, what works now may not be best for you in 10 years.

“The right fit may change,” Landriscina says. “As we get older, our skin gets drier.” He says your best bet is to

start with something designed for sensitive skin, as that’s least likely to cause irritation. If you know your skin type, Colombo suggests opting for something designed for it.

For example, people with oily or acne-prone skin often do best with a foaming cleanser, whereas people with normal or dry skin typically prefer gentle, nonfoaming options. Colombo suggests Cetaphil Dermacontrol Foaming Cleanser for oily skin and Cerave Hydrating Cleanser for dry skin.

Moisturiser: Landriscina explains that the skin is designed to keep the outside out (dirt, bacteria) and inside in (organs, bones, and joints). However, it can lose water. That’s where moisturiser comes in.

“Using a good moisturiser repairs skin barrier function and holds in water,” Landriscina says.

Landriscina recommends: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 for those with dry skin. | Naturium Multipeptide Moisturiser for people with normal skin. | Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel Cream for those with oily skin.

Sunscreen: Though some moisturisers have SPF 15, Landriscina and Colombo say it’s essential to apply sunscreen and reapply it every 2 hours if you’re exposed to the sun.

They recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks both harmful UVA and UVB rays. Look for one that is at least SPF 30.

“UV rays and UV radiation are the primary modifiable risk factor when it comes to skin cancer risk,” Landriscina says. “Using sunscreen every day consistently the correct way is one of the best things you can do to prevent skin cancer.”

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).

“It has to form an even film over the skin,” Landriscina explains. “Putting skin care products on after it can disrupt it.”

Follow this link to read more on skin care: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/ the-ultimate-pared-down-skincare-routine

GRENFELL, FIVE YEARS ON: Property developer

Shack Baker demands overdue industry reform

By Jamie Morris

A London-based property developer who grew up in a tower block has called for more accountability within the “extremely dated” construction industry – we speak to him about how his company, the Property Shack, is taking action to bring about change.

Mojatu: First of all, could you talk us through your journey from growing up in a tower block to actually becoming a property developer?

Shack: I was always interested in property – I just never really understood how it worked or how to get into it, and assumed that it was for rich people.

My parents never owned their own homes and we lived in blocks, so the way we grew up, there wasn’t a lot of understanding around how owning assets or generating wealth really worked. I think because of that, it drove me to learn more about it and to level up.

Mojatu: Now that you’re in this position, what steps do you take at the Property Shack to ensure that your properties are safe to live in?

Shack: When I look at housing, I look at it from a perspective of, “Would I live like that?”. I’m one of six children and we grew up in very tight conditions, so I’ve always got a humane and holistic approach to everything. At my company, everything we focus on is sustainable to begin with, and we always make sure that everything is built as safely as possible.

It’s a very competitive market and sometimes margins can be very tight, so I see where people try to save costs and maybe try to scrimp on materials. You get it with a lot of the volume householders – I feel with them, it’s very much all about profit and making money. But I think there’s a way to create a profitable company that still focuses on quality and giving people a decent home to live in.

Mojatu: Of course, the reason that we’re talking today is because this year marks five years since the Grenfell Tower fire. Do you believe that the tragedy left as much of an impact on the construction industry and on policy as it should have?

Shack: If I’m being honest, I think more needs to be done. There’s definitely been a shift on the health and safety side and the fire side, but in regards to preexisting buildings, I don’t think there’s been enough. Generally, when things don’t happen, it often comes down to sheer neglect or money. The only real way to make some people care in this world is for them to suffer loss themselves or for them to lose money or be held accountable in some way. If there was more accountability, then more would have been done.

Mojatu: How do we hold people accountable? Would

you say that falls upon the government or is that within the industry?

Shack: It’d be good if it was both. Why would certain materials be allowed to be sold if they’re not safe? It doesn’t make sense. I don’t know if it’s black and white – i.e., that’s flammable, so it shouldn’t be sold – but on the construction side, these things need to be reviewed.

The construction industry is extremely dated. There are so many modern methods of construction and modern materials that we could use, but the giants within the industry aren’t necessarily motivated to change, even though change is inevitable and it affects us all. So I feel like the only way to make them change would be to hold them accountable – there’d have to be some sort of reprimand. Our job is so important. We house people, and if people’s lives are potentially in danger, then there should be some risk of going to jail. If you don’t pay taxes, then you could go to jail, so if you’re building something that you’re made to know is unsafe, you should be held accountable. It’s no different to dangerous driving.

Mojatu: You’re a very socially-conscious company and we’re keen to hear more about your community outreach work in tackling issues such as unemployment, youth crime and homelessness. Could you tell us a bit more about those programmes?

Shack: A few years ago, we started focusing more on off-site construction, which is where elements of the building are pre-assembled in another location before it’s moved to the site. That meant I could create jobs for people without them having to be highly skilled. I could hire somebody that’s maybe homeless or has been in prison.

Sometimes the government or local authorities don’t always move as fast as we would like them to. So as creators, as entrepreneurs, and as people, if we come together, we can make real change – and that’s essentially what we’re trying to do here at the Property Shack.

BEWARE OF LOAN SHARKS!

You might think that loan sharks can only be found in television soaps and movies - but they are much closer than you think. Loan sharks are a menace in all communities, including here in Derbyshire. We want to warn residents of the dangers and what they can do to avoid getting caught in their trap.

Loan sharks are illegal lenders who target vulnerable people and make huge profits from charging extortionate interest rates. They’re known for sometimes using violence and intimidation to enforce repayment on loans, but the shark could be anyone – another parent at your children’s school, your nextdoor neighbour or a work colleague.

Loan sharks are very cunning and manipulative people. They will often befriend their victims, offering to help them out with a quick fix loan, but the consequences of borrowing from these unscrupulous lenders can be devastating. Don’t be fooled by these predators – they can quickly turn nasty and threaten you with violence if you don’t meet their demands.

Warning signs to indicate that you could be dealing with an illegal lender include giving no paperwork upon the agreement of a loan, refusing to give detailed information about a loan, intimidation and threats,

taking items such as a bank card or passport until the debt is paid, and taking things from you if you do not pay on time.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is a dedicated team of specialists aimed at tackling loan sharks across England and providing specialist support to their victims. Working alongside police forces and local authorities, they have helped thousands of people escape the clutches of these criminals and wiped out nearly £90 million worth of illegal debt.

If you have borrowed money from a loan shark, or if you have been paying back such a loan, you are not in trouble for this. It is the lender who will have committed a criminal offence, not you.

If you or someone you know is affected by illegal money lending, you can contact Stop Loan Sharks for support on 0300 555 2222 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk Live chat is available on the website between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Credit unions are a safe ethical option for borrowing and saving money. They’re local, friendly and not-forprofit.

Find out more at www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk.

By England Illegal Money Lending Team with compliments to Vinnie Jarman – Liaise Officer

FUTURE LEADERS PROJECT DEVELOPS CAREER SKILLS OF DERBY’S YOUNG POPULATION

Words by Jamie Morris & photos by Tee Mlauzi

A skills development programme has offered invaluable leadership training and experience to young people within Derby.

“I couldn’t be more proud.”

The programme – which held its official launch event at Derby University on 28th June – took place over the course of two months, and was a big success.

Niamh Toner of BLM New Gen described the programme as “a whirlwind nine weeks of growing, learning and breaking boundaries”.

An awards ceremony was held at Derby College on 23rd August in which the cohort delivered speeches about their journey, and also demonstrated their newfound confidence and public speaking skills.

Organised by Empowered Youth, the Future Leaders Project gave a diverse cohort of over a dozen 16 to 25-year-olds the opportunity to attend workshops, gain accredited qualifications and take part in a three-day residential camp to boost their employability.

The project was supported by several local partners, including Derby College, YMCA, the City Council and young activists group BLM New Gen.

It was funded by Derby Opportunity Area, led by Local Programme Manager Alix Manning-Jones.

“This project has supported young people to become the leaders of tomorrow,” Alix said.

“The Future Leaders are now taking their first steps into turning the theory of leadership into reality,” she wrote in a blog post for Empowered Youth.

Empowered Youth CEO Dene Botha, who was recognised as one of the 100 most influential young South Africans in 2019 said: “We at Empowered Youth couldn’t be prouder of the results of this programme.

“It has been an honour to not only work alongside the inspiring organisations to build such strong foundations for the youth of today, but also to have the opportunity to play a role in the evolution of our Future Leaders.”

Find out more at empowered-youth. com