Mojatu Magazine Derby D006

As a media organisation, there’s perhaps an expectation that all the stories we publish will be about things that are brand new – but with Black History Month taking place while this issue is on the stands, it’s just as important for us to put the spotlight on the old. In fact, you could argue that some of these old stories are new to many of us, due to people of colour being largely absent from the historical narratives that are prioritised by the national curriculum.

A Black story that we should all know here in the UK is that of the Windrush Generation. Travelling from the Caribbean and other parts of the Commonwealth to begin a new life in the UK in the wake of the Second World War, these brave people’s contributions to vital services like healthcare, construction and transport helped us to rebuild our country when we needed it the most. Their history forms part of all of our history, and beautiful tributes have been paid to them in Derby this year via a 75th anniversary ceremony (pages 12-13) and the latest Caribbean Carnival (pages 20-23).

However, Black people’s history in Derby goes back even further than the days of Windrush – as far as the 18th century, even. In this issue – thanks to the help of the Derby Local Studies Library – we’re proud to bring you the fascinating story of Henry Redhead Yorke, the son of a plantation owner and a freed slave who left his mark on the city against the backdrop of the French Revolution. Read all about his life and legacy on pages 16-17. Be it an old story, a new one or something in between, we hope that you enjoy reading whatever catches your curiosity in our sixth issue of Mojatu Derby.

Jamie Morris Assistant Group Editor

Editorial

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Derby Caribbean Carnival

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UK INSTALS FIRST BLACK AFRICAN FEMALE HIGH SHERIFF

- By Peter Makossah

She has done what many people of her kind since time immemorial have tried to do but failed.

Buoyed by her strong will, zeal, tenacity, resilience, and her unquenchable love for mankind, she has reached for her brightest stars and achieved the unthinkable.

For her, impossible is nothing. She has smashed the glass ceiling and twice has made history.

She first wrote her name in the annals of history when she became the first Kenyan and first African woman to be appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Nottingham a decade ago.

Professor Veronica Moraa Pickering, a philanthropist, social worker, and a life coach, who was born in Kisii County in Kenya and moved to England in the 1960’s is the first Kenyan, first black woman and first African to be installed as High Sheriff in British history.

The first black High Sheriff in Britain was Nathaniel Wells, a magistrate and landowner, who was a son of a Welsh slave trader and plantation owner with an enslaved woman, served as High Sheriff from 1779 -1852 in Monmouthshire.

The name Professor Veronica Pickering, who in 2013 was appointed Deputy Lieutenant (DL) of Nottingham, conjures up a focused, dedicated, loyal, regal, kind and warm-hearted professional and humanitarian with a passion for young people.

Highlighting the achievements

Professor Pickering was appointed as High Sheriff of Nottingham in April this year, but YMCA Newark and Sherwood hosted historic installation at glitzy

ceremony marked with pomp, colour, grandeur and reverence at Newark’s YMCA Community and Activity Village.

The office of the High Sheriff is a position of benevolence and is an unpaid, independent and non-political royal appointment, dating back to the Saxon times.

In her keynote address, Professor Pickering said: “I am absolutely delighted and privileged to be taking up this historic role and also to be the first woman of colour in Nottinghamshire to be High Sheriff.”

“In my year in office I will be focusing on highlighting the achievements of young people and the communities and organisations that support them.”

The installation ceremony included music from the RAF brass quintet, Freddie Kofi and SING Community Gospel Choir, live streaming of Gatoto School children’s choir in Nairobi, Kenya, solos from Amninah Hussain and a performance from the YMCA Creative Academy.

A revered champion of charity Professor Veronica is also board member of YMCA RobinHood Group, an ambassador for YMCA Newark and Sherwood, an honourary Air Commodore of the RAF among many other portfolios.

The event saw the unveiling of Professor Pickering as the High Sheriff’s ceremonial robes, which were designed in collaboration with students at Nottingham Trent University to highlight her selfless involvement with nature and to represent her African and Nottinghamshire identities.

The design of the shoes was a collaboration between Simon McMaster and the Nottingham based smart textiles company, Footfalls and Heartbeats.

Professor Pickering says she will use her position to highlight the achievements of young people and their communities in the region.

An absolute honour

The official ceremony was held in the conference and event space at the activity village.

Craig Berens, chief executive of YMCA RobinHood Group, said: “It is an absolute honour to be hosting this important event here at the YMCA Community and Activity Village in Newark.

“When we opened this incredible facility last year, we hoped it would become the heart of the community and act as a space for people of all ages and interests to come together and feel part of something.”

The event provided an opportunity for Professor Pickering to outline her goals for the tenure of office, including raising the profile of Nottinghamshire across the UK and beyond.

As the High Sheriff of Nottingham, Professor Pickering is also responsible for assisting charities and community foundations who work with vulnerable young people, as well as supporting the emergency services and crime prevention agencies.

Guests at the event included Sir John Peace, Lord Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire and his wife Lady Christine Peace, Manoah Esipisu, High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya to the United Kingdom, Paul Southby, outgoing High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, Chaplain Lauren Simpson and Under Sheriff Deborah Hutchinson.

Pricking Professor Pickering

The High Sheriff of any city in the UK including Nottinghamshire takes office in April every year for a term of one year and remains the Sovereign’s representative in the county for all matters relating to the judiciary and the maintenance of law and order.

The Office of High Sheriff is non-political and unpaid, and no part of a High Sheriff’s expenses falls on the public purse - it is a Royal appointment, which is made in the Privy Council by the Sovereign, where the custom of he or she is ‘pricking’ the appointee’s name with a bodkin is perpetuated.

The High Sheriff acts as the Returning Officer for parliamentary elections and maintains the loyalty of subjects to the Crown.

The High Sheriff further undertakes duties to support and encourage voluntary and statutory organisations engaged in all aspects of law and order and provides hospitality and look after the well-being of High Court judges.

Professor Pickering is married to Nottinghamshire born artist Roy Pickering and now works as an Executive Coach and Mentor with several companies and organisations across the UK and she supports several Nottinghamshire charities and organisations.

Speaking during the installation of Professor Pickering, Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Sir John Peace said: “We share many of Veronica’s values when it comes to supporting young people.”

MOJATU, NTU HOLD CONFERENCE ON FGM ZERO-TOLERANCE 2023

- By Caroline Mwangi

Geared up to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) to extinction, Mojatu Foundation in collaboration with the Nottingham Law School at Nottingham Trent University (NTU), held the annual Zero Tolerance to Conference.

The conference, held on June 23rd, 2023, under the theme, ‘Accelerating Investment and Abandonment to FGM at Marcus Garvey Ballroom in Lenton, Nottingham, attracted scores of people from near, far and wide, including local and international experts, health professionals, the police, community and traditional leaders, higher education students, FGM survivors and members of the community in Nottingham city and the county.

Some of the notable people who attended the conference are: Joy Cotton, Programmes Manager, Covid Outbreaks at Nottingham City Council; Cecily Mwaniki, founder of Utulivu Women’s Group; Juliet Albert, Specialist FGM Midwife at Sunflower Clinic, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust; Mahnaz Harrison, President and CEO of Last Mile4D and Mark Dwira, a final-year PhD Nursing student at the University of Nottingham.

Others include: James Sahr Momoh, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Cultural & Ethnic Diversity lead working with Berkshire NHS Talking Therapies and Deputy chair of Race Equality Network (REN); Fredrick Mwawule Wadulo and Community Ambassadors; Jacinta Ijeoma, a Masters student at the University of

Nottingham, pursuing Midwifery Studies, Maternal and Newborn Care; Julia Paul, a Church Pastor; Abdoulie Jah, founding CEO for Sight-tech International and Director of ABJ Security Services Limited.

The FGM indaba took place during Refugee week, an umbrella programme of arts, cultural and educational events that takes place between 19th and 25th June every year, to celebrate the creativity, resilience and contributions of refugees and people seeking sanctuary and to promote a better understanding of why people seek asylum.

The timing of the conference was significant and specifically chosen, to give effect to some of the aims of Refugee week which include raising awareness of the reality of refugee experiences and seeking new and creative ways to address issues relevant to migrant communities.

Raising awareness

In her opening remarks, Mojatu Foundation Operations Director said: “We have been raising awareness, sensitising communities and empowering survivors to be the driving force for tackling FGM by giving them a voice and engaging them in discussions, decision making, and events aimed at tackling FGM.

“In our work with FGM survivors and communities affected by FGM, Mojatu Foundation not only actively works towards ending FGM but also helps to raise awareness on FGM. Mojatu also helps

safeguard girls and women at risk of FGM and supports FGM survivors and their communities to cope with the effects of FGM and in becoming the drivers for change towards ending FGM.”

The director of operations explained that Mojatu Foundation engage individuals, communities, professionals, statutory bodies, and other stakeholders in raising awareness and tackling FGM, in the UK and Internationally.

Mojatu Foundation over the past six years has worked tirelessly alongside Nottingham City Council in fighting FGM and their concerted efforts saw Nottingham becoming the first city in the UK to declare zero tolerance on FGM.

FGM Project Manager manager at Mojatu Foundation, Saida Barbar in an interview on the sidelines of the conference, said: “FGM must end, however, this mountaineous and daunting task will require everyone to take part, especially men as men have a significant role to play in ending the vice.

“FGM is criminal and therefore those who do it must face the law and for that to happen, we will need talk about it. Everyone must be involved. Women and girls from FGM practising communities continue to face the risk of FGM in the UK, and abroad.”

According to data, FGM it remains an intractable social problem that continue to pose a great danger to the health and human rights of women and girls from FGM practising communities. Among the delegates were various distinguished speakers who presented at the conference which was graced by over 80 invited delegates from different sectors, professional backgrounds and from all walks of life.

Psycho-sexual assessment

Making her presentation, Reading-based Cecily Mwaniki, said: “To end FGM, we need to involve all stakeholders to take part in the fight against this malpractice. We need to sensitise communities about this practice and ensure that girls and women around the world are safe from this barbaric act.”

London-based Specialist FGM midwife at Sunflower Clinic, Juliet Albert, who made her presentation from Indonesia said: “There is need to establish a national Centre of Excellence that will be offering FGM reconstruction surgeries alongside psychosexual assessment and other non-invasive therapies to FGM survivors.”

LastMile4D president and CEO Mahnaz M. Harrison,

presenting from the USA, explained that FGM is a global problem with far-reaching impact across different regions and cultures worldwide.

Harrison said: “There are political dimensions intertwined with FGM, and the practice continue to be exploited for economic gain. We must end FGM, but for us to do this, we have to be united.” On medicalisation of FGM, she explained: “This a new angle goes against the do no harm oath taken by doctors.”

Taking his turn, Abdoulie Jah, founding CEO for Sight-tech International and Director of ABJ Security Services Limited in his presentation, he said that men need to take a leading role in ending FGM because all this is done to please men.

Said Jah: “If you look deeper as to why people do FGM, you will find out that the practice is all about pleasing men and if men take part, it will be easy to end this evil practice. Men have a significant role to play in this war.”

The speakers’ presentations were followed by round table discussions on various themes and topic which included training, education and research, medicalisation of FGM, ways to support survivors and raise their profile locally, the role of men in

ending FGM, Ways to communicate with a female child, women and their children about FGM.

The conference also explored on how to create more awareness about FGM within communities, Strategies employed in addressing survivors’ needs and possible gaps in the implementation of these strategies.

The table discussions were led by Redrick Mwawule Wadule, Caroline Mwangi (PhD Candidate at NTU, who is also Mojatu Foundation FGM Projects Assistant) Joy Cotton, Mark Dwira, James Momoh, Cecily Mwaniki and Peter Makossah is also, a legal consultant at Mojatu Foundation, respectively. Overall, the conference discussed pertinent issues surrounding FGM bordering on cultural globalisation, a concept of cultural importation, ideas, customs and practices by people migrating from their countries of origin to their countries of destination.

It is through cultural globalisation that FGM spreads to various countries of destination and it was said that it is this that makes FGM a global problem that requires a global approach. A common sentiment amongst delegates was that there’s an urgent need to continue raising awareness about FGM and its various dynamics such as its medicalisation, in addition to employing a culturally sensitive approach, while engaging FGM practising communities.

DERBY’S RAMS TACKLE LEAGUE ONE CAMPAIGN HEAD-ON

- By Tristan Best

Derby look to bandage the loss of prolific forward David McGoldrick in a hurry to obtain League One glory.

The Rams are eager to find solutions in the coming weeks. Their new manager Paul Warne sets to unleash his style upon the squad with new full backs joining the team, such as #2 Kane Wilson (right back 23) and #20 Callum Elder (left back 31).

Kane Wilson is a known dribbler with quick feet, confident when one-on-one with his opposition. He had a rough season last year and found himself struggling due to injury and thus a lack of game time. He replaced Jason Knight who left this summer – an upgrade in intensity and intent. With training in delivery and onetouch football, he will be a force to be reckoned with.

Callum Elder brings maturity and calmness to the defence. Paul Warne forced the move through to ensure that the Aussie would be a really important cog in the machine. Playing off the left, he will produce a reasonable level of stability and understanding of the level of football being played –

especially as he’s won the league twice.

Club goal-scorer (22 goals and 5 assists) David McGoldrick is being replaced by the forward #14 Conor Washington, who the Derby fans hope can fill the void of contributions. McGoldrick had a good season last year, appearing for the Rams a lot to provide both goals and assists.

“No team in the history of football has won 46 games on the spin,” said Warne at a recent club conference. He emphasised on keeping up the great support and applauded the attitude and the unwavering loyalty shown by the fans of the club. “Even after a loss, there are still loads of people waiting to support the Rams,” he added.

Derby County managed to lead the statistics regarding stadium capacity last season, by far, proving that DCFC is a beloved club that’s highly valued by its fans. It is known though, that the squad is in need of a desperate shuffle, with ins and outs among the horizon. Derby has adjusted with new faces and a slight change in functionality.

A new striker is expected to join the squad before the end of the window, with a handful of players being closely monitored.

ONANA IN: AFRICAN GOALIE JOINS MAN UNITED ON US TOUR

- By Tristan Best

27 year old Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana has signed a five-year contract with Manchester United, and is due to join the club on their American tour.

This deal makes the widelyappreciated sweeper the eleventh African representative to play in the Premier League for the Red Devils.

The new number 24 allows Erik Ten Hag to change the way the team plays from the back, which will inevitably make United more press-resistant and tactically competitive when picking apart higher quality teams.

There will be mistakes as the team begins to adjust and develop its style going forward, but if supporters trust in the process,

they may see success ahead for the Red side of Manchester.

If you need a good reference point, just go and watch the superstar’s monumental performance against the team’s local rivals in the most recent UEFA Champions League final.

The 6’3” shot stopper displayed a cool, calm and confident mentality when faced with the toughest striker on the earth, Erling Haaland.

His ability on the ball, when passing, dribbling and controlling the tempo is unique and rarely composed at the high level he plays at, making him one of the most entertaining keepers in Europe.

Andre Onana is set to be the most

influential African player in the history of Manchester United.

I’m confident in his ability and mentality, and strongly believe the team have a genuine worldbeater in the net for next season.

MAN UNITED COMPLETING THE PUZZLE WITH NEW ADDITIONS

- By Tristan Best

Manchester United are making deals around the clock this summer.

With the recent additions to the squad, Mason Mount (#7), Andre Onana (#24) and the short-term return of Jonny Evans (#27), Manchester United have set their sights on the hyped-up Danish prospect Rasmus Holjund. The 20-year-old striker who formerly played for Italian Serie A side Atalanta is keen on joining the Red Devils this summer.

It has been confirmed that the player is a massive fan of the club, and it turns out that he has been following Manchester United fan platforms for a long period of time, which inevitably pours more fuel on the transfer window fire.

The deal could result in a fee anywhere between €50€70 million, including add-ons. Now estimated to be €75 million, with an extra €10 million in add ons. The player has been compared to the efficient Erling

Haaland since his arrival in the men’s game, being 6‘3”, lightning quick and composed with both feet, he is the ideal player to work with. This is especially true for Erik Ten Hag, who excels when moulding younger players in their respective positions and roles.

The squad and staff will have to look out for him, and nurture him appropriately as he’s still young. He will also need plenty of support with adjusting to the new style of football and environment. It is a gamble, but in today’s market, it’s definitely worth the risk.

If United add a more experienced striker to carry the load, and ‘split’ the minutes with Rasmus, Rasmus will be allowed to grow alongside Ten Hag’s plans, developing into the role with a more subtle approach, instead of ‘crashing’ in.

The Danish forward could be with the club for the next decade if he is managed well, and kept on his toes. Who will United sign next?

WINDRUSH ELDERS REFLECT ON CHILDHOOD AT ANNIVERSARY EVENT

- By Jamie Morris

Derby’s Caribbean community has come together to reminisce and celebrate 75 years since the arrival of the Windrush Generation.

On 22nd June, members of the Windrush Generation and their descendants were joined by council officials to commemorate the landmark anniversary at the Sir Peter Hilton Memorial Garden on Corporation Street.

Council leader Baggy Shanker introduced the event by giving thanks to Derby’s Windrush pioneers for their contributions to various workforces in the aftermath of the Second World War, including the newly-established NHS.

“They went into all sorts of professions here, using their skills, knowledge, tenacity and determination to help rebuild Britain after the war,” said Cllr Shanker. “I can’t imagine the sacrifices that those people gave to be able to do that.”

“They also brought with them lively music, fantastic food, and the Carnival,” he continued. “All of these things that enrich our society today.”

Arboretum councillor Cecile Wright, whose parents

came to Derby from Jamaica in the 1950s, joined Cllr Shanker in emphasising the Windrush Generation’s cultural impact on the city.

“Our annual West Indian Carnival is one of the highlights of the calendar of the city and attracts thousands of people annually not only from Derby, but from across the region and further afield,” she said. “We’re here to rejoice and celebrate a population that came to the UK and played a considerable role in developing and contributing to the success that Derby is today.”

Following the speeches, Shirley Howard-Johnson –a member of the Windrush Generation who came from Jamaica to Derby as a child – was invited to raise a brightly-coloured flag bearing the image of the HMT Empire Windrush.

Shirley didn’t come to the UK with her parents, but was instead raised by her aunt in Jamaica – whom she affectionately referred to as ‘Auntie Mama’ –and then her grandmother once her aunt moved to England.

When her grandmother passed away, Shirley moved

here to reunite with her Auntie Mama, who she said had several claims to fame as Derby’s first Black hairdresser, dress-maker and cake-baker.

For many children like Shirley, the Windrush period was something of a waiting game while they remained in the Caribbean. With their parents and other relatives starting new lives overseas, their familial relationships were characterised by vague stories of an unfamiliar land almost 5,000 miles away, and occasional gifts delivered in barrels.

Robert Williams, who was born in Jamaica’s Manchester Parish, recalled what it was like to be away from his mother, who moved to Derby before him. “People would point up in the sky and tell me, ‘Your mum’s on that plane,’” he said. “Up the road from where I lived were the Spencers, who had three kids, and all of them had gone to England, too. So, when I was told I was going, I was excited to go somewhere new where all my friends were, and be with my mum.”

Lorna Simpson, another child of the Windrush Generation, lived with her grandmother until she came to Derby at the age of six and met her dad for the first time. She was happy to meet him, but her transition to life in the UK was not an easy one.

Lorna came in February and was met with cold, snowy weather – something she was entirely unaccustomed to. More challenging still, on her first day at school, a girl pointed and screamed ‘What’s that black thing?’ at her, and similar comments persisted for the remainder of her time there. “It was traumatic,” she said. “And I have never forgotten any of it.”

Sadly, bullying was a regular occurrence for Windrush children, who were not always made to feel welcome in their new home. Robert, who also came during winter, was pelted with snowballs at school by the other children and had to stick up for himself when they wouldn’t listen to why he found the sensation jarring as someone from a warm country. Eventually, the other pupils came to respect him.

“To be honest, they couldn’t mess with me at school,” he laughed. “Because of all the chores we had to do at home, we came here with muscles aged eight. And when the headmaster decided to cane my hands, I told him ‘Come on…where I come from, when you get caned, you can’t write for the rest of the day!’”

Similarly, Shirley recalled a time when she and two other Black children were excluded from playing netball, and took it upon herself to bridge the gap.

“Every time they threw the ball, I came and took it away,” she said. “Eventually they said we could play, and I even became captain.”

Reflecting on the hardships faced by Black children within education, Cllr Wright said: “The Windrush Generation came as aspirants, so when their children struggled in the schooling system, they established supplementary schools.

“For them, education was seen as a passport to success, so it is not surprising that in this country today, one of the groups that disproportionately enter higher education are those from the Black community. The centrality of education is still within the community, and we are now seeing the results of that come to fruition.”

WINDRUSH 75 AND ME

- By Tristan Best

Community journalist Tristan Best compares his own experiences with those of the Windrush Generation, and reflects on the younger generation’s perspective…

On Thursday 22nd June, the Windrush community and people from Derby came together to exchange great stories from the past. In the morning we witnessed a flag-raising ceremony, in order to pay our respects to the many people who sailed and flew from overseas to come and work, learn and live in the UK – the place their families have called home for over 75 years. The event was wellattended and organised, with great hospitality and friendliness.

Comparing memories

A panel of Jamaican men and women, who were part of the Windrush Generation came to tell their stories on how they had coped with the change in their lives, such as how their cultures were different from the UK and how they felt during each of their times against prejudice and discrimination. This enlightened the wider audience and myself, as some of us including myself had never been attacked, degraded or judged in that manner.

The ladies and gentlemen spoke of the community back home being together and whole, with the schooling being much better in Jamaica, as the teachers really understood their pupils, and worked well with them to allow them to succeed.

The individuals also struggled with the new routines they had adopted since making the move. And on top of that, they also had more mighty challenges such as learning the English

language, as they were often misunderstood, and their questions would go unanswered in the new British schools that they attended.

The expectations the generation had laid out for them weren’t lenient, as back home they’d have to get up extremely early to do chores and maintenance work at home before school, proving how hardened they were as a collective. For them to struggle on arrival, means they were really up against the odds at hand.

Stories of the ladies and gentlemen imagining the snow and winter period, reminded me of my own thoughts, as a child. Moving from the warm, beautiful country of South Africa, I imagined the UK having snow so thick and full – like the great Alps, being able to snowboard or even surf on the snow in between the houses.

Of course, I was over exaggerating in my imagination, but that’s okay as a child. What myself and the other people found was a freezing cold, small England with loads of ‘slush’ , snow that had been rained on.

Stigma around the term ‘Windrush’

Some of the younger generation that were born in the UK following their parents and grandparents’ move away from the Caribbean and wider Commonwealth have expressed a dislike for the general community to be mainly associated with the HMT Windrush, a boat.

Even though the vessel was a major part in the migration, it shouldn’t be the tag applied to the many young people, as it diminishes the passion and culture that the wonderful people bring to the table by reducing them to the mode of transport in which they arrived.

In fact, some argued it may add a bundle of stigmatisation and misinformation to the topic, as a lot of people if not most of the people in subsequent years accessed the UK via aeroplane – ‘BOAC passengers’ was a term heavily used in the session that was held. None of the panellists had actually come over via the HMT Windrush or even a boat.

COMMUNITY HERO TAKES A BOW FOLLOWING DECADES OF LOCAL SERVICE

- By Jamie Morris

A hardworking and compassionate council employee described as ‘a stalwart for the community’ has retired after 23 years in the local authority.

Pam Thompson, former Community Development Officer for the City Council, has been a major figure in supporting ethnicallydiverse communities in Derby, and was celebrated at a surprise send-off held at the West Indian Centre on 17th August.

Her colleague Gary Robinson, a Community Safety Officer for the council, said: “Pam has been instrumental in her work in keeping the Black, Asian and minority ethnic agenda alive within local government. She has a passion and deep understanding of the communities she served and has empowered many people to achieve.”

Pam’s role has involved working closely with members of the council to shape policies and strategies, as well as monitoring their impact and hosting events to engage directly with the communities whose lives she has endeavoured to improve. Pam’s achievements also include supporting young people, over-60s, and those living with disabilities to enable effective and meaningful change across a range of different demographics.

“Pam has introduced some thought-provoking and

inspirational speakers into the fore, enabling the public sector to hear the ‘what about us’ voices,” Gary added. In recent years, this has included BBC Radio Derby DJ Devon Daley, author Richard Reddie and the late Stephen Lawrence’s younger brother, Stuart. This year, she also organised and hosted a panel consisting of local people from the Windrush Generation who came to Derby from Jamaica as children, which you can read more about on pages 12-13.

On Stephen Lawrence Day in 2022, Pam said: “The biggest room in the world is the room for improvement. If you see a level where there’s no representation, ask yourself the question: ‘Why, and what must I do?’ We’ve got to do these things, and then we’re on the road to equality. It doesn’t mean that we’re there, but we’re on the road – and there is much to do.”

While the time has come for Pam to enjoy a welldeserved break, her friends and colleagues in the council and beyond will have a high standard to live up to as they pick up the torch and strive to continue her impactful community work.

MEET THE CARIBBEAN RADICAL WHO CAUSED A STIR IN 18TH-CENTURY DERBY

- By Jamie Morris

We look at the life of Henry Redhead Yorke, the son of a plantation owner and a freed slave who left his mark on the city against the backdrop of the French Revolution…

While the Windrush period saw huge numbers of people from the Caribbean start new lives in the UK between 1948 and 1971, material collected by the Derby Local Studies Library shows that there were Black people living in Derbyshire as far back as the 1790s – including activist HR Yorke.

Until recently, most discourse around HR Yorke has only related to the evolution of his political views, with his Black heritage being largely overlooked. It wasn’t until 2017, when local genealogist Anne M Powers joined up the dots of his family history, that the full context of his fascinating life story was revealed.

HR Yorke – at this point just called Henry Redhead – was born in August 1772 on the Caribbean island of Barbuda to wealthy plantation owner Samuel Redhead and a formerly enslaved woman named Sarah Bullock, who herself was also the offspring of a white man and a slave. Samuel purchased Sarah’s freedom a year before Henry’s birth, and they moved to England in around 1778 to begin his schooling.

While this may conjure up romantic notions of Samuel falling in love and changing his ways for the good of his wife and child, make no mistake about his character – he owned 264 slaves before his death in 1785, and was said to have had many other

children with different enslaved women. Two years after Samuel’s death, Sarah remarried to a linen seller named Edward Henstock, and she and Henry moved to Little Eaton in Derbyshire.

Inspired by the ongoing French Revolution, Henry Redhead would go on to become an active figure in the reform movement in his early twenties, campaigning for changes to the proportionally unrepresentative parliamentary system and against the monarchy. He travelled to Paris in 1792 on behalf of the Derby Society for Political Information and witnessed the trial of King Louis XVI of France, but had to escape back to England at short notice when he was accused of being a spy. Although he had to leave behind nearly every physical possession he took with him, he returned with something intangible: a new, more radical outlook than that of his Derby Society peers.

Before going to Paris, he had written in defence of slave ownership – which had likely been normalised to him during his early years in Barbuda – but switched to an abolitionist view in 1793 in a letter addressed to the people of Derby. It was also around this time that he began using the additional surname Yorke, and while this may sound like a way to distance himself from his father, Powers notes that he kept the Redhead name and maintained a rose-tinted view of him in later writing.

Most surviving copies of HR Yorke’s letter to Derby have had the publishing firm’s name cut out of them, which, as Mark Young from the Local Studies Library

suggests, was likely due to a government crackdown on any meetings or writing perceived as inciting rebellion. Not long after its publication, he became chief spokesman of the Sheffield Constitutional Society and gave speeches at reform meetings in London, Manchester and Edinburgh to rally troops to supposedly help the French revolutionaries overthrow the British monarchy. In November of that year, he even made the bold claim that the King would be beheaded by Christmas.

HR Yorke’s controversial statements eventually led to an arrest warrant being issued against him for treason, and he was detained in 1794 at the age of 22 after a failed attempt to flee to Switzerland. His charge was later reduced to ‘misdemeanour, conspiracy and seditious words’, and he was sentenced to a minimum of two years in Dorchester Castle prison.

At this point, HR Yorke felt as if his allies in the reformist movement had abandoned him, claiming that there wasn’t a single person in Sheffield ‘who would step forward in support of their supposed seditious champion’. He subsequently went through another ideological metamorphosis behind bars and emerged a Conservative.

HR Yorke wrote a letter addressed to England’s reformists upon his eventual release in 1798 that denounced his former views and expressed favour for the war against the French, who he used to idolise. However, his fellow Tories were reluctant to

align themselves with someone who’d made such a stark U-turn in opinion, and his standing as a political commentator never reached the heights it enjoyed in his reformist days.

In 1799, he married Jane Williams Andrews, daughter to the keeper of the very same jail he was imprisoned in the year before. They went on to have five children together but, tragically, Jane would outlive all of them – including her husband, who passed away after a period of illness in 1813 aged 40.

Nonetheless, sparks of HR Yorke’s legacy lived on through his eldest son, Henry Galgacus Redhead Yorke, who was ten when his father died. HGR Yorke also went down a political career path and joined the Whigs, a now-dissolved liberal party that brought about the parliamentary reform that HR Yorke campaigned for in his youth, by passing the seminal Representation of the People Act in 1831. In 1841, HGR Yorke was elected as a Member of Parliament for York – making him one of the first MPs of Black heritage – and he held the position until his death by suicide seven years later, aged 45.

Although HR Yorke changed his views significantly several times throughout his life, he was an influential figure whose enthusiasm for politics introduced new ways of thinking to people in Derby and beyond. The son of a freed slave who temporarily lost his own freedom in an impassioned fight for democracy, and whose reformist ideals would indirectly live on through his son, his story is one to remember.

This programme is split into two sections:

1. Participants undertake Accredited Music Production training course to fully develop their technical skills and will also be coached by experienced industry professionals to help them fully embrace their creative side.

2. The final product will be a powerful sound collage that participants will take away with them with the possibility to showcase their work at a series of venues, events and on the radio.

Fearless Youth Collective

Fya Notts

fya_notts

FYA_Notts 0115

An exploration of thoughts, feelings and energy through the creative power of written prose and rhythmic beats.

Writing & Recording Songs

Spoken Word Poetry Production

fyaonline.com

info@fyaonline.com

Unit 8, Howitt Wing Building, Lenton Blvd NG7 2BY

CARNIVAL 2023: TROUPES BRAVE TURBULENT WEATHER TO CELEBRATE WINDRUSH 75

- By Jamie Morris & Seif-el-deen Abushkhaidem

People came en masse to attend a special edition of Derby’s annual Caribbean Carnival commemorating the Windrush Generation.

Taking place 75 years after the HMT Empire Windrush brought hundreds of passengers from the West Indies to England, the event was a jubilant celebration of the Caribbean community’s contribution to the country.

Derby connected Arts & Culture

Carnival is already one of the city’s most significant summer events, and this year organisers from the Derby West Indian Community Association pulled out all the stops to mark the landmark anniversary, said councillor and DWICA board member Cecile Wright. “We need to acknowledge that this event originally came about because of the creativity of those who came here as part of the Windrush Generation,” she said. “This is their legacy to Derby and to the entirety of the United Kingdom.”

Arts & Culture

DWICA chairman George Mighty – who came to Derby from Jamaica in 1961 – said he felt grateful for the opportunity to honour his peers and predecessors at this year’s Carnival. “Our theme this year is the Windrush Generation coming to rebuild Britain, and that is reflected in the costumes,” he said, referring to Derby’s gold, red and greenclad troupe. “We also won the regional queen costume competition, which is a brilliant thing for us.”

Derby’s costumes this year were designed by 23-year-old Niaz Stephenson, who has been volunteering at DWICA since he was only ten. “There’s loads of hidden meanings,” the up-and-coming designer explained. “The flags at the bottom of the costume symbolise the generation planting their roots into the ground, and the triangle shapes represent bunting, with little logos inside to show what they helped rebuild, including the NHS, factories, coal mines, trains and buses.”

Watch our video of the event:

“I made the queen and troupe costumes in a very short amount of time, so I was scared of stuff going wrong,” he continued. “After the day finished and I got home, a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders and I felt proud. Seeing everyone in stuff I made doesn’t seem real – it still hasn’t hit me.”

The costumes were especially put to the test this year due to a series of short-lived torrential downpours that took place at numerous points during the fourhour procession. Nonetheless, the Derby crew and their nine supporting regional troupes – a record high for DWICA – kept dancing through both rain and shine until their arrival at Osmaston Park.

“Rain never stops Carnival,” insisted Mr Mighty. “The crowd looked reasonable, and people seemed to be enjoying themselves, so we couldn’t ask for much more. We had faith and we carried on.”

The park was brimming with people who had come to celebrate, many of whom had followed the procession from various points along the way. Although some of the troupes had to head home early – Rampage Mas Band travelled all the way from Luton, for instance – guests flocked around the main stage to enjoy the dance performances and live music acts.

Likewise, traders were out in full force to supply everyone at the park with great food, drink and souvenirs, noted DWICA’s Nezrine Hudson. “The stall holders who had pre-booked have all turned up,” she said. “We were worried that, seeing the rain, they may decide not to come – but they’re all here, so I hope they’ve had a very pleasant and profitable day.”

Cllr Wright added: “May we go from strength to strength. We’ve been doing this for decades and we’re so pleased that people think so highly of the community and trust us to put on something that is spectacular on an annual basis.”

Born in Maryland, USA and currently living in Uttoxeter, England, Raphael Tate’s life has been one punctuated by giant leaps. When I call him via Zoom, the vocalist answers from neither location,

ITV STARSTRUCK CONTESTANT SHARES HOW MUSIC HELPED HIM REBUILD HIS LIFE

- By Jamie Morris

and disables his virtual backdrop to reveal a pristine beach in Cyprus, where he’s come to unwind after a gig. “Whenever I need to relax, I just park up here,” he tells me. “It’s just so beautiful and so inspiring.”

In spite of his numerous relocations, an unwavering constant in Raphael’s life has been his passion for music. Long before his record deals, live gigs and appearance on ITV’s Starstruck, the seeds of his career were sown in a music-loving Christian household in the Mid-Atlantic. “We were just engulfed by music – it was our everything,” he says. “If I got into a fight with my siblings, my mom and dad would bring us together to pray and then we’d sing, beating pots and pans, and stomping our feet.”

Raphael’s childhood was soundtracked by gospel, funk, R&B and soul, and chief among his musical icons was David Ruffin of The Temptations. “Ruffin had the full range of his voice from the top all the way down to the bottom,” he explains. “He could sing like a bird but also like a distorted speaker –either way, it’d sound so sweet.”

However, cracks began to form in Raphael’s idyllic upbringing when his parents split. The heartbroken teen started to get into fights with his peers, until the school band director provided him with a new outlet for his anger. “He pulled me to the side and said that instead of beating on people, we should

American singer-songwriter Raphael Tate tells us how music has shaped him, and what it was like to portray James Brown on prime-time television…

beat on drums,” Raphael recalls. “He mentored me through music and saved my life from going down a path of destruction.”

Raphael played in the marching band for three years and was offered a tuba scholarship before pivoting to pursue his aspiration of becoming a singer – but it would be some time before his career really took off. After getting married and having a son, Raphael found less time to dedicate to music, and his dreams went on hold. “It’s kind of like the story of Neo in The Matrix,” he says. “He’s sitting there every day in his job like, ‘This can’t be all there is’.”

This period in Raphael’s life also coincided with a growing discontentment with living in the United States, and the subsequent breakdown of his marriage. “My dad’s side is Native American, so I wanted to go somewhere else in the world to escape the injustices of America and how they treat our people,” he explains. “These cultural differences came between me and my wife, and to this day I don’t have a relationship with my son.”

Raphael moved to Egypt for a fresh start as a music teacher and singer-songwriter. “The pain, the sorrow, the heartache – all these things started to shape me,” he says. “I believe that I started to get really good, really fast.” He was later invited to do live shows in Cyprus, and after performing an original song on a cruise line, was asked by an agent to record a cover of Taylor Dane’s With Every Beat of My Heart, which charted in both the US and UK in 2017.

In 2020, Raphael travelled to the UK for a concert and ended up staying much longer than originally planned when the Covid-19 pandemic affected international travel. “My gig was shut down and they weren’t letting people back into Cyprus,” he says. “I was stuck.” But that didn’t stop Raphael from sharing his music with others – he started performing from his back garden where he was staying in Uttoxeter, and went viral online for bringing joy to his neighbours during the lonely lockdown period. Once the world started to open back up, Raphael’s music caught the attention of ITV, who asked if he would audition to impersonate Marvin Gaye on their new talent show, Starstruck. He was unsuccessful, but was given the opportunity to audition again as James Brown, and ultimately performed I Got You (I Feel Good) on the show’s second season. “We had to tear James Brown’s voice apart,” he tells me of the intense vocal training. “But after many workshops, I really felt I was able to master that song.”

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Raphael, however,

was to look like James Brown. While his dreadlocks could be tucked away beneath a cowboy hat, the producers told him that his beard had to go. “That was one of the major sacrifices that I had to make, because I haven’t seen my face since I was 16 years old,” he laughs. “I looked in the mirror like, ‘Oh, who is that?’” Millions of viewers tuned in, and although he didn’t get through to the next round, Raphael received high praise from the judges, especially Adam Lambert.

One of Raphael’s primary goals going forward is to pay tribute to his family through music. He has a new album out that’s dedicated to his mother, who passed away in 2020, featuring contributions from two of his brothers. The singer also has a new baby daughter to take care of, and hopes to raise his profile enough worldwide that his son will one day recognise him and reach out.

“I want to continue to tour the world, to bring cheer and love with my music and help people get through heartache and pain,” Raphael says, looking out at the sea. “I believe that God gave me something special, and I just want to share it.”

CONFIDENCE IS KEY AT REAL TALK SPOKEN WORD EVENT

- By Tristan Best

Held at Bunk, Sadler Gate in August, this open mic event featured Dempsey Grinion, Eloise Landers and other talented individuals, with an insight on different medical conditions and ‘disabilities’.

As a novice poet, I look to find and break down different styles and approaches in spoken word – with the off-chance to listen to the individuals who may have rapped, rhymed or even sang a song for the audience. Here are some of the highlights:

Dempsey Grinion

Dempsey is a renowned spoken word artist who seamlessly paints pictures in 4K – you can see the scene set as if it was an illustration. Powerful, moving, full of realism, his work is eye opening. Dempsey Grinion operates with a unique stance, and his work can

make you feel the very pain and pressure intended. “I’ve got a face covered in scars like I’m Scarface,” he said. “Marks woven within the skin like a shoelace”.

Dempsey uses spoken word to spread awareness on topics and subtly draws the audience in with ease. Using his dark and unfortunate past experiences to spread awareness and empower people like himself, he says that you shouldn’t be ashamed of your story and instead should use it to fuel your craft, and therefore to your advantage. I find listening to his work multiple times is the only way to go about it, as certain subtexts may allude you.

Eloise Landers

Eloise’s witty poem, called ‘Chronic Fatigue is ME’, gave a detailed approach regarding CFS/ME and how the health condition changed her life at such a young age, with heavy detail and structured wordplay. Throughout her performance, she was confident, full of energy and ready to preach.

According to the NHS, Myalgic

Encephalomyelitis, also called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or ME/CFS for short, is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and a range of other symptoms. Treatments for myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/ CFS) include talking therapies, managing your energy levels and medicines.It’s not clear what causes myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS). “Not who I was, not who I want to be, not what I can be,” said Eloise. “But chronic fatigue is ME!”

Who the F*** is Alice

Intimately orientated but really funny, Alice seemed to be very experienced and knew how to draw the audience in. With an adult-oriented performance ready to hook you in, the set had subtle intelligent jokes laced

throughout from the start – “I support teachers strikes and sex workers rights”. This star’s work reminds me of Brwn Girl in the Ring, who we featured in issue D004.

At first I didn’t understand the reason for such detailed art, but this type of work is usually intended to encourage and spread women’s empowerment over their minds and bodies alike. A key factor in this particular poem was the included details – it all comes down to the pictures she paints with her delicate words. As a whole though, it was one of the best pieces I heard – it made me laugh, smile and think.

Richard Banker

A darkly detailed poem read with an intense and direct approach, relaying realism and the reality of the past and present, displaying Derby in some of its truest forms. The under-developed and underprivileged scene was painted for us in exquisite detail – enough to almost place your physical self in the scene.

Richard followed this by playing the guitar whilst singing and adlibbing. He smashed his set and it clearly showed that you should never judge a book by its cover, as you’ll miss the great contents within. It’s a pleasure working with such people, as they can often influence you when you least expect it. I learned a lesson from watching: don’t lose yourself, and hold onto your confidence, as it amplifies your character.

True Colours Poetry

Being the host for the night, TCP smashed it. He pushed the atmosphere and gave each performer a boost. He also added his own seasoning throughout the night, effortlessly ripping jokes whilst also managing to keep everyone on the same page. He was comfortable too, which ended up boosting everyone’s confidence – and then, he performed my favourite poem of the night, one that I myself could agree with and relate to. It was about good and bad times, and about the people who did or didn’t stick around through them. “Funny thing or a money thing, who knows what a coincidence is?” he asked. An all-round solid performance.

His poem then made it clear that he is only human, and he suffers and struggles just like anyone else. He mentioned that times can be tough, and that he’ll get through it, no matter what. He made it clear that men can be sensitive and that they shouldn’t be judged, especially when it comes to them sharing their emotions and trying to be open with others. We need more spokesmen like him to raise awareness on these broad and important topics.

Richi Lyle

Richi is a well-spoken individual, with clear and direct communication skills. He engaged with the audience and drew them in. To me, his voice sounded really familiar and comforting, like James Corden with a Northern twang – “But what about the bogey pie?”

Against all odds, Kye set out to perform for the first time. He told the crowd that he was recently diagnosed with autism, but he wasn’t going to allow it to dampen his performance or even his dayby-day life. He made it clear that he had always felt different, and struggled with his emotions and social skills, but now things are starting to add up and he now knows why he feels this way.

His comedic approach lathered the audience with laughter. Another magician with whose words painted illustrations galore, he really unveiled his poem well, with vocabulary, structure and barrels of confidence. Although his performance was short – or shorter than I’d have liked – he used his time well, kept the audience engaged and held his own for sure. I look forward to hearing more of his poetry.

Kye Berry

STRONGER

TOGETHER: DERBY’S

CREATIVES CONNECT AT NETWORKING EVENT

- By Tristan Best

Mojatu was one of several groups and projects represented at the Connecting Creatives event, held at Derby’s Dubrek Studios.

My colleague Jamie Morris and I attended the evening, and would most definitely attend the next event. It was a great and very productive night. We managed to establish new relationships with creative people from in and around Derby, such as poets, artists innovators and many more well established individuals and representatives for local groups.

The atmosphere was welcoming and allowed the people to feel confident in expressing themselves. The organisers did great, as they made sure each

individual had been heard and cheered on, with good timekeeping and efficiency.

We at Mojatu Derby found the event online, when Tanvir Akram from Connecting Creatives kindly invited us via Instagram. The arrangement in the building allowed around a hundred people, which was rather impressive. I didn’t expect that, but it really showed how important the community is in this great city.

After the event, we managed to continue to build and create with many of the individuals introduced at the evening, and we are looking forward to the possibility of having them all in future editions of Mojatu Derby.

During slavery and colonisation, the West forced its colonies to abandon their own languages, mainly to maintain its dominance – because of this, many languages have gone extinct.

The dominance of the colonisers’ languages – such as English and French – has put the languages of some of the world’s smaller ethnicities under threat. Due to our need for conformism, it becomes more challenging to continue to pass down languages outside of the dominant ones.

UNESCO data indicates that if no efforts are made to conserve them, half of the languages currently spoken today might go extinct by the end of the 21st century. Of the world’s 6000 languages, an estimated 2000 are in Africa – but on the continent, as a remnant of colonisation, English and French still dominate.

Mali recently decided to demote French as its official language to a working language. With its new constitution – which was passed with 96.91% of the vote – they decided to let go of what has been their official language since 1960.

70 other local languages are being spoken in Mali. Amongst them are Bobo and Bambara, which were granted official status in 1982, setting an example to follow for other African countries.

Although other countries have made significant efforts to prioritise the use of indigenous languages in education, English and French are still governing most African educational institutions. In some countries, pupils are forbidden from using their own language at school.

Whether or not you can speak English or French can also have a significant impact on someone’s life trajectory, especially professionally. There’s a

HOW DO WE SAVE ENDANGERED LANGUAGES?

- By Ophelie Lawson

common prejudice against those who do not speak the dominant languages in which they are perceived as being uneducated. In Ghana, primary school children now learn in Twi, Ga and Fante which are local languages in addition to English – a move that consolidates pupils’ home languages and keeps them alive.

Between 1950 and 2010, 230 languages went extinct, according to the UNESCO Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger. Today, hundreds of our languages are on the brink of extinction. It’s more than words that we’re at risk of losing – it’s also culture.

Languages reach the point of crisis after being displaced by a socially, politically and economically dominant one. English and French are widely spoken in the West and therefore people associate them with being key to accessing jobs, education and opportunities. In migrant communities, parents tend to prioritise teaching their children the dominant language. If their children were only to speak their languages, they might perceive it as a potential hindrance to their success in life.

We can help to preserve endangered languages by insisting on speaking our native languages at home and teaching them to our children and grandchildren. We also need to create and maintain language resources for endangered languages so that people can learn them. Using social media to promote indigenous languages is also a good way.

Language is one of the most important ways through which a culture promotes and preserves its heritage. Languages have been used for centuries as a way to pass down some of the best stories of our ancestors, the generation that have come before us and other rich cultural histories.

MENTAL HEALTH AND STIGMATISATION

- By Angelo Moletta

Through recognizing the importance of this issue, here at Mojatu, we strive to support positive mental health initiatives.

Through comprehensive programs and a community driven approach we aim to offer light for those in times of darkness. For far too long, mental health has been a topic swept under the rug, viewed as something shameful or a sign of weakness.

Those struggling with mental health issues often faced discrimination, exclusion, and ridicule. The fear of being labelled as unstable; prevented many individuals from seeking the help they needed. This stigma perpetuated a cycle of silence and suffering, leaving countless people feeling isolated and misunderstood.

One of the primary drivers of change has been the increasing visibility of mental health in popular culture. Movies, television shows, and documentaries have shed light on various mental health conditions, offering new views that challenge stereotypes and misconceptions.

These depictions help humanize individuals with mental health struggles, fostering empathy and understanding among viewers - by presenting relatable characters who confront and overcome their challenges - these stories encourage open dialogue and promote the idea that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness.

On a smaller scale, here at Mojatu, through a variety of campaigns, workshops, and events, we strive to create a safe environment where people can discuss their struggles openly and seek support. Frequent events and activities are held and blog posts host discussions, to promote awareness around mental health. Through the provision of platforms for individuals to share their experiences we can empower those individuals and foster a sense of solidarity within the community.

The importance of accessible mental health services must be recognised so that our country can ensure that enough is provided for individuals, and ultimately that waiting lists aren’t preventing those in need from seeking help promptly.

We offer 1-2-1 drop-in sessions alongside emotional support that can be accessed both online and in-person. Support groups are also hosted at our premises to encourage and allow individuals to connect with others facing similar challenges. This provides a sense of belonging and is a step towards destigmatizing the conversation around mental health.

Regardless of genders, races, ethnicities, and religions the stigma surrounding mental health must be broken down.

Here at Mojatu it is a priority for us to offer an abundance of help to ensure that our local community know they don’t have to suffer alone.

OUR RACE FOR LIFE: RUNNING 10K FOR CANCER RESEARCH

- By Tristan Best

Community journalist Tristan Best takes us through his personal journey through running a 10K race for charity.

Together, my friend Kaylan Grandon and I raised over £180 for various charities linked to Cancer Research UK. We ran two laps of Markeaton Park, Allestree on the 9th July. With each lap being 5K, we managed to run the 10K with ease. Kaylan and I trained and prepared for this race for months. Our goal was to run a 10K, as we wanted to test ourselves – which we definitely did.

I was certain the race was at the end of July, but in fact, the Cancer Research UK Race for Life – which can be completed by running or walking – was set up for the 9th, giving me three or so weeks less to train than I thought at first. This made me incredibly anxious – “Maybe I haven’t done enough runs, maybe I’ll struggle to make the finish,” I thought. But even with these doubts in my mind, they still wouldn’t stand in our way, nor affect our performance.

Three days before the run

Due to my mind racing away, and the slight intrusion of anxiousness, I pushed myself into going to the gym to up my confidence and self belief. It worked well, and I then let loose, eating plenty of snacks, followed by a huge dish of sweet potatoes and steaks, which inevitably contributed to the performance further on.

On Saturday I rested. After a good night’s sleep – not a great one – with an early unjust awakening from the body clock, I felt terribly anxious throughout my day. I spent the day writing and watching movies and videos. I had a full day of ‘carbing-up’ – getting ready by stocking up on a mixture of slow and fast release energy based foods such as lasagne, steak and pizza.

Building up to the run, I had only been for a roadrun once every two weeks, which allowed time for my body to heal and repair. I found having the gap made my everyday life better and my deadlines easier to meet. When I did my runs, I found out, each time I went for that run, I was better at it. My stride was stronger, my breathing rhythm was better and my overall cardiovascular system had grown stronger.

I also insisted on maintaining my current body weight of 160 lbs, as that would encourage an ‘easier ride’. I’m currently on a bulk now though, looking to get closer to my 180 lbs goal, which I had set myself to reach by the end of the year, last month. I’m trying my best to only eat lean protein and consume better products for the long run – fish, beef, chicken and a whole load of healthy carbs, as it’s harder to cut down to a leaner physique when getting ‘hooked’ on the unhealthy processed foods.

Derby connected

The big day

On the day of the run, I woke up early and proceeded to stretch. Fighting the anxiousness, I prepared myself in an appropriate manner: a warm shower, a cup of coffee and a cup of tea.

Just after my stretch, I ate a serving of eggs benedict – to be honest, I was certainly obsessed with the breakfast dish around this time, as I had recently eaten it the weekend before.

Kaylan and I were running late, but we managed to arrive at Markeaton Park just in time for the race. Unfortunately, however, we had to start at the back of the bunch, meaning we had to side step around the walkers.

This would not faze us, as we marched on. We both found the run amazing – it led us around the park

twice, with a scenic view along the back end.

I managed to run the 10km in 50 minutes, and Kaylan came in at the hour mark. I was utterly shocked and proud of myself – I even managed to fit in a sprint finish, which I didn’t expect.

In the future, I aim to take part in more runs, both for charity and pleasure. I would also like to eventually train for a marathon, which is equal to 38.6 kilometres. The possibility of going for runs in new places in new cities also tends to encourage me to continue further.

I would love the opportunity to go to places like London, Manchester and other destinations to take in the scenic routes, and meet new like minded people in the UK. The next run on my agenda is the Carsington Water 10K – one of the most scenic routes in the UK.

‘EMBRACE YOUR INNER EMPRESS’: AN OVERVIEW OF DERBY’S BUSINESS BRUNCH

- By Tristan Best Photos By @Minnie.Media

Empress Revolution CEO Rufaro Hwindingwi celebrates her seven-year reign with a bespoke business networking event.

Makeup artist and entrepreneur Rufaro specialises in makeup for special occasions and also luxury brow services, such as brow wax and shape and henna brow tints. The superstar is located in a modern salon on London Road.

Many sophisticated members of our community joined together to celebrate Rufaro’s journey. The event was held with class, passion and flair, perfectly displaying admiration for the hostess and her massive achievement of staying in business for so long. Hers is a true show of strength and determination – not every journey is as easy as it seems.

Lectures were given by special guests regarding business, including sharing their many ups and downs and elaborating on business strategies and tactics – the dos and don’ts. They clarified the steps at the start, such as seeking guidance, knowledge and officiation from governing officials or even business and legal consultancy, which all helps a budding entrepreneur flow into the stream of business and innovation, having their back covered and protected furthermore. .

Jasmine Naomi, described as ‘a beacon of inspiration for individuals and entrepreneurs seeking to unleash

their full potential’ is a business performance coach who has been transforming lives and businesses with her unique approach and profound insights. Renowned for her commitment to clients and their personal growth and professional excellence, Jasmine asked “What is it that I want, that isn’t monetary?” before unravelling the truths of fulfilment. She said it was essential to prioritise what goes on in your mind and life to allow space for all the positive and negative lessons you’ve already applied to your way of living. Later Jasmine said living from month to month is a common occurrence in the UK, but you wouldn’t assume having your own business could also lead to such stressful times. It’s not what anyone wants for themselves. Comfort is enemy number one. Comfort kills dreams.

Ayo Odusanya, representative of the distinguished legal consultant firm Lead Collective, delivered exceptional legal guidance. The firm strongly believes in building strong and lasting partnerships between themselves and their clients, with deep understanding of the unique underlying principles and needs of each individual and business, ultimately providing guidance that correlates with their goals. “Sign the contract”, she said, urging attendees not to allow what goes on in your personal life to affect your business. Certain stipulations will cover your back, especially if things hit the pan.

The classy event, held at Spondon Village Hall, included a wide variety of stalls and also a phenomenal food display made fresh from scratch by Art Food Kitchen – owned by another excellent female innovator Marta Knapek – who are specialists in creative catering and food styling. The entertainment and engagement was at its peak, and the environment was welcoming and emphasised togetherness in our community. It was also great for networking too, as many talented like-minded individuals had joined together.

Rufaro surprised the audience with an announcement in which she unveiled her new joint organisation at the well-attended business brunch, which was named, ‘My Sisters Wealth Org’. She said: “The organisation aims to help ignite the passion in entrepreneurs and empower business owners especially in the start up stage. Through our events, workshops, members club and business mentoring.” Bear in mind this has taken years of planning, preparation and consideration – almost seven years, in fact.

Jasmine Naomi Ayo Odusanya Munsanda Kasanyinga

NAVIGATING WORKPLACE DIFFERENCES

- By Angelo Moletta

It is critical to recognise and address the persistent workplace discrepancies between men and women as we progress towards an equitable society.

Gender gaps still exist in a variety of professional settings despite tremendous advances in recent decades.

One of the most visible manifestations of workplace differences is the gender wage gap. Despite legislation and increased awareness, women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for similar roles.

This disparity not only affects women’s financial security but also perpetuates systemic inequality. It is essential that efforts to promote pay transparency, encourage fair compensation practices, and eliminate gender-based wage discrimination are supported.

Leadership representation is another factor that can present discrepancies in the workplace. In executive and senior management positions throughout industries, women are still underrepresented. Innovation is hindered, perspectives are constrained, and gender stereotypes are reinforced by the lack of diverse leadership. Organisations must put proactive measures in place, such as mentoring programmes, networking opportunities, and fair

promotion procedures, to open doors for women to hold leadership positions.

For many women, finding the right balance between work and family obligations is a huge problem. Women frequently bear a disproportionate share of the responsibility for caring and domestic responsibilities due to traditional gender roles and societal expectations.

Women might face obstacles to career growth and struggle to strike a good work-life and to support women in achieving their personal and professional goals, it is crucial for employers to implement familyfriendly policies such as flexible working hours. Women often encounter unconscious biases, microaggressions, and stereotyping that hinder their professional growth.

Mojatu offers a number of training programmes for women in order to help them grow and flourish and while progress has been made in reducing the gender gaps between in the workplace, there is still more work to be done.

It is imperative that we build workplaces that value diversity, provide equitable opportunities, and enable women to realise their full potential by working together.

Let’s work towards a time where gender is no longer a barrier to success, and everyone can prosper.

HOW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS EMPOWERING AFRICAN YOUTHS

- By Willy Kamau

Artificial intelligence (AI) makes it possible for machines to learn from experience, adjust to new inputs and perform human-like tasks.

Through this mind-blowing technology, AI today can be trained to accomplish specific tasks by processing large amounts of data and recognising patterns in the data.

In the heart of Africa, a transformative wave is sweeping across the continent, unlocking new possibilities for its youth – the forefront of this wave is the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technological force that holds immense promise for the future.

According to recent statistics, Kenya has witnessed a rapid growth in internet connectivity and smartphone adoption, with over 85% of its population having access to the internet.

This connectivity has laid a strong foundation for the integration of AI into various sectors, providing unprecedented opportunities for the youth to harness the power of this technology.

As the world witnesses the rise of AI, Kenyan youth are embracing its potential, positioning themselves as trailblazers of innovation and change.

AI is not just a technological marvel; it is a gamechanger for young individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as the Mathare and Kibra communities.

These communities, often plagued by limited access to quality education and economic opportunities, are finding hope in the potential of AI.

Empowering communities

With AI-powered tools and platforms, the youth can transcend barriers, acquiring new skills, and exploring novel avenues for personal and professional growth. Enter the Youth Future Lab (YFLab), an organization committed to empowering Kenya’s youth with cutting-edge technologies.

The YFLab team recognizes the transformative impact of AI and is actively encouraging the youth to venture into this domain. Sarah Wanjiku, a talented young coder from Mathare, honed her programming skills through AI-focused courses and mentorship provided by YFLab.

With her newfound expertise, she developed an AIpowered chatbot that helps farmers in rural areas access crucial information on weather patterns, crop management, and market prices.

Sarah’s innovation not only earned her recognition but also demonstrated the potential of AI to address real-world challenges and empower communities.

In Kibra, Francis Otieno, a young entrepreneur, tapped into the power of AI to revolutionize healthcare access - armed with AI-driven algorithms, Francis developed a mobile application that uses image recognition technology to diagnose common ailments and provide relevant treatment suggestions.

This groundbreaking innovation has brought affordable and reliable healthcare to underserved communities, reducing the burden on overburdened healthcare systems and empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being.

Female Genital Mutilation FGM – FACTS , HELP & ACTIONS

Facts

• FGM is any procedure that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.

• FGM has been illegal in England and Wales since 1985.

• FGM is a form of child abuse and violence against women and girls.

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• FGM is Non-Islamic, against the teachings of Islam and brings Islam into disrepute.

• FGM is putting the health of our daughters, sisters, mothers and wives at great risk.

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• Over 200 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM.

• 103,000 women aged15 to 49 are living with consequences of FGM in England & Wales.

• In the UK, an estimated 20,000 girls under the age of 15 are at risk of FGM each year. • 1,230 cases have been reported in the Midlands from April 2020 to March 2021

Help

Are you concerned a girl or woman is at risk or need of support?

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• Join the Community FGM Steering Group: Contact us

• For emotional & peer support for survivors in Nottingham, join the FGM Survivor’s club: Contact us

• Refer survivors needing medical attention to FGM medical specialist in Nottingham: Contact us

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• Drop in sessions at Mojatu Office Unit 7, Howitt Bldg, Lenton Blvd, Lenton, Nott`s NG7 2BY

• Call 0808 028 350 for a 24/7 anonymous FGM helpline or email: fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk

• Call Nottingham City Council Children and Families Direct: 0115 876 4800

• Ring the police on 999 if FGM has just happened or about to happen

Actions

include:

To help end FGM and support survivors, join one of our campaigns or projects

• FGM Survivors Club

• FGM Steering Group

• FGM Global Faith Ambassador

• FGM Global Young Ambassador

• Request for training

• Volunteer with us

• ‘Adopt a tree’ project

• Donate to support our work

• Fundraise to support our work

• Women Skillshare Group

For more information, contac t Mojatu Foundation

Phone: 01158457009 Mobile: 07759 927671

Email: info@mojatufoundation.org | Website: www.mojatufoundation.o