The Phoenix Newspaper - May 2024

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By Dr Tony Talburt

CANARY ISLANDS CITIZENS’ PROTESTS AGAINST MASS TOURISM

As we look forward to the summer holidays, certain expectations come to mind. Warmer weather, school closures, cricket, and for many, the summer getaway deals to European destinations.

One of the most popular destinations for British people is the Canary Islands. Last year some 13 million people visited these Islands, which is fine in itself, but just over 5 million of those visitors were British.

When it is taken into consideration that the population of the Canary Islands is 2.2 million, it is little wonder there appears to be a backlash from Spanish citizens about the extent of this level of mass tourism. The key question is whether such protests are justified, and should Brits consider other destinations or be more considerate about the way they go about holidaying abroad?

The tourist industry makes a significant contribution to the national income in the Canary Islands. According to the Independent Newspaper, this sector accounts for 35 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in the Canary Islands. If this were to suddenly disappear the region would probably experience severe economic decline.

The arrival of visitors to the islands each year results in spending in local bars, restaurants, hotels etc. It also contributes to employment of local people. For the visitors they experience good weather, food, nights out and overall relaxation.

However, it seems local Spanish residents and some government officials are questioning this large-scale tourism industry because of the negative impacts on the country. According to a recent report in the Independent Newspaper several thousand people took to the streets in the Canary Islands to protest against mass tourism.

The main argument seems to be that such large-scale visits are

leading to the destruction of local industry. In particular, they are calling for a limit to the number of tourists who can come into the country to stem the apparent boom in short-term holiday rentals and hotel construction that is driving up housing costs which are beyond the means of most local residents. Protestors were seen holding

wealth. Perhaps one way to address this is for the local sector and the British tourist sector to consider working together to promote ways in which visitors can contribute more to the local industry. One British company dedicated to this central mission is Canary Green. According to their website, they seek to promote ‘sustainable experiences,

ate for people who regularly visit the islands for holidays. So, instead of going abroad to have a good time without a care in the world, perhaps some of that good time could be spent engaging in local industries and initiatives. In this way, tourism could benefit the wider cross section of people. Of course, this will not solve the problem of big

placards reading ‘people live here’ and ‘we don't want to see our island die.’ Fernando Clavijo, president of the Canary Islands government called on the sector to support other industries such as agriculture, and to increase wages to better distribute

accommodations, brands and local initiatives such as their ocean clean-up programme.’

More generally, visitors can also try to do more to spend some of their time and money in locally owned small businesses. This would be particularly appropri-

tourist businesses dominating the economy, but it could be a small step towards supporting the wider society which benefits less from mass tourism.

A HISTORY OF AFRICA BY ZEINAB BADAWI

Focussing on the epic history of the oldest inhabited continent on the planet, Africa’s history has long been dominated by western narratives of slavery and colonialism, or simply ignored.

People can join award-winning broadcaster Zeinab Badawi as she sets the record straight and guides us through Africa’s spectacular history from the origins of our species, through ancient civilisations and medieval empires with remarkable queens and kings, to the miseries of conquest and the elation of independence. Visiting more than thirty African countries to interview historians, anthropologists, archaeologists, and local storytellers, Zeinab unearths buried histories from across the continent to give Africa its rightful place in our global story told through the voices of Africans themselves. She is an award-winning broadcaster, journalist and filmmaker and is President of SOAS University of London and is an honorary fellow of her alma mater St Hilda’s College, Oxford. Born in Sudan, she has worked in the British media for decades. Her work has included co-presenting Channel 4 News alongside Jon Snow before joining BBC News, where she interviewed some of the world’s most notable personalities and politicians on the BBC’s Hardtalk and Global Questions.

‘What's Online’ is a series of events delivered by experts and special guests. This event is presented on Vimeo - you do not need a Vimeo account to join an event, and you can join from your browser from a laptop or mobile device. With that, for the best experience, it’s recommended that you use either a laptop or desktop computer.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR CITYWIDE SMALL GRANTS

Applications are now open for public and VCFSE sector organisations in Birmingham to bid for Citywide Small Grants being made available via the Fairer Futures Fund.

A total of £2.46million is available through the new Citywide Small Grants, with organisations in Birmingham able to bid for up to £15,000 per year, or up to a maximum of £45,000 for individual projects over a three-year delivery period. The fund is part of a strategic vision to radically transform how

health and social care services are delivered in Birmingham and Solihull which, over the next five years, will see services become more integrated and delivered as close as possible to citizens’ homes, whilst the focus will shift towards preventing ill-health.

More than 50 voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector organisations have already received over £2.1million of the Fairer Futures Fund across Birmingham and Solihull to date. Projects are wide-ranging - from supporting bereaved homeless people to men-

tal health resilience building workshops for young people in schools in deprived areas.

This latest pot is being distributed in partnership with Heart of England Community Foundation and is being overseen by the Birmingham Place Committee to ensure funding meets the best interests of the health and care needs of the local population. For more information on how to apply, visit the Heart of England Community Foundation website. The deadline for applications for the Citywide Small Grants scheme is 5pm on Friday 12 July 2024.

Starting on Wednesday, 5 Jun 2024 (19:30 BST) you will receive a reminder email, including a link to join in advance of the event. For more information on registering and accessing an event, visit How to watch a live event on Vimeo Talks are available to watch on catch-up for a limited period of 48 hours only.

ENTREPRENEUR, JIVAN, IS CLEANING UP ALL BEFORE HIM

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

By: Steve Williams

FUNDRAISING SUCCESS WITH OVER £27,000 RAISED TO HELP YOUNG

PEOPLE

Offering the best in commercial and domestic cleaning services, locally and nationally, Glint Cleaning Solutions Limited (GCS) have been providing the very best by way of being thorough, efficient, and all with a smile – a first-class result.

Led by its effervescing Director, Jivan Gordon Powell, the business highlights entrepreneurship in power, as he (it) offers a range of services, from mobile vehicle cleaning and maintenance to exterior property maintenance and cleaning, which includes motor vehicles and offices (both of varying sizes). Emanating out of the scourge that was Covid 19, and specialising initially in mobile car detailing, the company has been going from strength-to-strength, with a growing reputation that’s providing great quality service that’s convenient and efficient to a tee.

As the level of satisfaction increases from its ever-growing number of customers, Entrepreneurship & Management Master's graduate, Jivan (26) is, as he says himself, driving growth and innovation in commercial cleaning at an almost industrial scale. “Our services include office and carpet cleaning, as well as mobile car valet and much more”, he says, “with a range of residential and commercial cleaning services in Birmingham, the West Midlands and the surrounding areas.

“We started off by doing detailing – with a lot of people spending a lot of money to have their vehicles detailed. But we ‘go the extra yard’, with my team and I going out to customers, listening to what exactly they want, an, he determines, “we provide the water and the relevant power source for us to do our work.

Products and services include carpet and upholstery commercial toi-

HARNESS CREATIVE POTENTIAL

Birmingham Hippodrome has announced that over £27,000 has been raised through their recent Hippodrome Unlocked fundraising campaign. This total surpassed their target of £20,000, which will increase access to theatre for young people in the West Midlands. The campaign was part of the national Big Give Arts for Impact fundraising chal-

lenge which ran for a week from Tuesday 19 March. The funds raised will enable the Hippodrome to offer over 200 young people the opportunity to develop their creative talents, confidence and leaderships skills through creative workshops in local communities and at the Hippodrome, alongside access to world-class performances on the Hippodrome main stage. Judith

Greenburgh, Head of Fundraising and Development at Birmingham Hippodrome said: “A huge thank you to everyone who generously donated towards our Hippodrome Unlocked campaign.

“We are committed to becoming the most accessible venue in the UK and these vital funds will help give more than 200 young people across the West Midlands a chance to experience theatre and new op-

let, communal and contract cleaners, deep cleaning, driveway and factory cleaning and maintenance, graffiti removal, high pressure jetting, kitchen and mattress cleaning, odour removal services, office builders cleans and sanitizing, patio cleaning, pressure washers and much more beyond that.

Based at the All Saints Industrial Estate, in the UK’s second city, and now with up to six other people working under his ‘GCS’ moniker, Jivan Gordon Powell’s Glint Cleaning Solutions Limited has expanded to include patio, commercial, and industrial cleaning, with a widening circumference to cover – and an increasing number of fellow-operatives on his books. To add to their growing reputation the company has been nominated for an ‘England Business Award, in the ‘Best Cleaning Business’ category for 2024!

portunities. We would also like to thank our charity champion Creative Futures Fund, Hortons Social Purpose Committee and The Grimmitt Trust for their support.” For more information about Birmingham Hippodrome’s work with young people and communities, visit: birminghamhippodrome.com/hippodrome-projects Benjamin Zephaniah mural set to be unveiled

Anew mural celebrating the life and activism of late writer, poet and actor Benjamin Zephaniah is set to be unveiled at a park in Birmingham.

"Proud Brummie" Zephaniah, from Handsworth, died at the age of 65 in December, eight weeks after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. The artwork, commissioned by Black Heritage Walks Network (BHWN) and created by artist Bunny Bread, will be unveiled at Handsworth Park.

Completed in March, the mural has been installed on one side of

the Sons of Rest building and will celebrate Zephaniah as "the people's champion" of the area. Dawn Carr, historian from Black History Arts & More, worked closely with the artist, the local community and Zephaniah's family on the project.

Speaking ahead of the unveiling, she said Zephaniah had shown love and creativity, courage and humanity and that he was more than a poet.

“Benjamin Zephaniah was a son of Handsworth grassroots community and resistance," she said.

"He was always humble and an advocate of the poor and oppressed."

Artist Bunny Bread, from Create

Not Destroy, said Zephaniah was all about the cause and the people at a time where others were about getting followers and likes.

"Benjamin really stood for the people, when you listen to his music and his poetry, his causes were always in front of him," Bunny said.

A ceremony to unveil the new mural will take place at the Sons of Rest building in Handsworth Park from 15:00 BST on 14 April, a BHWN spokesperson said.

The artwork comes after another mural featuring Zephaniah was revealed by easyJet at Birmingham Airport earlier in March.

VMBS Tottenham and Birmingham Rep O ces to close, alternative service options shared

VM Building Society wishes to advise that, as part of strategies to create the best and most e ective experience for its customers, it will be closing its Tottenham Representative O ce located and 520 Tottenham High Road, and its Birmingham Representative O ce located at 174 Dudley Road, Edgbaston, e ective May 31, 2024.

Customers value convenience and personalized service. As such, the Tottenham o ce operations will be relocated to the VMBS Brixton Representative O ce located at 380 Brixton Road, London SW9 7AW. We will also adjust operating hours at the Brixton O ce to give customers greater exibility.

For customers in Birmingham, the team will continue to provide services monthly at a convenient City Centre location in Birmingham. Details about the time and locations of these visits will be shared in the coming weeks. They are designed to ensure that customers’ service needs are met without disruption.

Remember also that customers can take advantage of online services, at myvmgroup.com and via the VM mobile app.

For any immediate queries or assistance during this period of change, customers may contact their local Representative O ce or the VMBS Member Engagement team by phone at 0-800-068-VMBS (8627); email at manager@myvmgroup.com or live chat at myvmgroup.com.

VMBS sincerely appreciates the continued support of its customers and remains dedicated to making this transition as smooth as possible.

V.M. LATEST

‘TOWNHALL’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTING ITS DEVELOPMENT AND GROWING STRENGTH

Led by its UK-based representatives, The VM Building Society, a member company of the VM Group invited its customers and supporters to hear of ongoing developments in its homeland Jamaica and activities in the Diaspora; as it continued its thrust to remain engaged, open and transparent with its customers.

Held at the H-Suite on Icknield Road in Birmingham, the evening was compered by co-director Mrs. Delores Cooper, and in the presence of the Jamaican High Commissioner for the UK, His Excellency, Alexander Williams and Leighton Smith, Vice President of VM Building Society with responsibility for its Overseas Offices, it was the perfect opportunity for the internationally renowned financial institution to let it be known of the ongoing developments that’s keeping it at the fore-font of the minds of Jamaican’s worldwide.

“Jamaica’s practical approach to engage with its Diaspora is ongoing”, said High Commissioner Williams, “and as a High Commission, representing you, we

will continue to keep you abreast of our country’s growing position and interaction on the world stage, our GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is experiencing ever-increasing growth and quite frankly, let me let you know, people from around the world are coming to Jamaica to invest. Don’t let other people invest in your country whilst you stand idly by.”

The High Commissioner further encouraged attendees to attend the upcoming Jamaica Diaspora Conference to be held in Montego Bay, Jamaica between June 16th – 19th with a Day of Service on June 20th.

Leighton Smith during his presentation shared how VM has transformed digitally to not only better serve the needs of customers globally, but to also remain competitive. It was this change he indicated that has contributed to the company making the tough decision to close two of their three offices in the United Kingdom as of May 31, 2024, namely their Birmingham Office in Edgbaston and their Tottenham Office, in Tottenham London.

“Despite the closure of these offices, customers will still be able

to access VM’s services with little to no disruption’ Smith said.

“Your funds remain safe with VM as the 146-year-old institution was not pulling out of the United Kingdom’. Smith went on: “Because of what’s happening globally and improvements in technology, how you bank has changed’.

Mr. Smith shared several statistical reports on how people in the United Kingdom have increased their online banking activity over the years which has contributed to the success of the existence of several online banks in the UK today. He went on to share that, that data correlated to what they noticed in their offices, with the significant decline in footfall of those using the physical offices that are to be closed. ‘Our decision though not an easy one was based on the existing data’.

In closing Smith confirmed VM’s continued support for the Jamaican UK Diaspora “Your funds remain safe and we’re not going anywhere!’ he continued “we will continue to work with and support the Jamaican community as well as host regular events such as promotional surgeries in

Birmingham and nationwide.’ He further stated that ‘the telephone numbers to contact the locations will remain operational and not change”.

It was then time for Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE, OD, founder and Chief Executive Officer of the world-renowned travel agent, Diamond Travel, who went on to say: “We encourage people to invest in ‘The Rock’ (Jamaica) for the future. We are ‘The Rock’ that we must build on.

“I was born in St. Thomas but made by VM” referring to the fact that she was the pioneer on the ground to help start VM in the United Kingdom. Thanks, was then given to the ‘old’ and the ‘new’.

In attendance from VM was Donna Brown, Senior Manager – Operations and HR Services, Birmingham offices’ stalwart, Phyllis Peters and the ‘new-kidon-the-block’, Khori Hyde, Business Development Lead for VM, who then led the open mic Q&A that would follow, which allayed whatever concerns attendees had regarding the direction VM Building Society was going.

Business & Finance

NEW BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP SET UP FOR DUDLEY TOWN CENTRE

Anew multi-stakeholder partnership has been formed with local businesses to stimulate the local economy and improve the vibrancy of Dudley town centre.

The Dudley Town Centre Partnership Group is supported by Dudley Council with national government funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will work in conjunction with key stakeholders including Dudley Council. The business-led steering group

has an allocated budget and meets monthly to drive change, working collaboratively to deliver projects recommended by businesses to activate and improve the town.

The group will give Dudley town businesses a voice and platform to come together while identifying ways to improve the vibrancy of the town centre. Positive change has already been made in the town centre, including improved cleaning with the introduction of a dedicated full time neighbourhood services operative.

The group will also hold quarterly open focus groups on particular topics and town centre businesses are encouraged to get involved in the coming months. Dudley Council appointed independent advisors Heartflood and Save the High Street to facilitate the formation of

the partnership.

Julie Holden, Community Director at Save the High Street, said: “Now more than ever we need to encourage collaboration and work together to strengthen and improve our town centres and high streets.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Heartflood to deliver this valuable project, and to be continuing our work to support Dudley town centre businesses.” Businesses in the town centre are welcome to join the group and can find out more by contacting the Dudley Business First website.

Local businesses can also access business support, including a free diagnostic, by registering their interest with Business Growth West Midlands online.

Sompo announces leadership changes for Asia Pacific region

Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, have announced leadership changes to support the further growth of its insurance business in the Asia Pacific region.

Kenneth Reilly is appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Insurance, for the Asia Pacific region, subject to appropriate regulatory and immigration approvals.

He will also retain his current role as Head of our Tokyo office.

Mr. Reilly (pic) will continue to report to James Shea, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman for Sompo. The appointment is effective April 1, 2024.

Mr. Reilly succeeds Daniel Neo

who has announced his desire to retire. Mr. Neo will remain with Sompo until the end of the year as Senior Strategic Advisor to assist with the transition.

In his new role, Mr. Reilly will be responsible for all of Sompo’s insurance business across Asia Pacific. James Shea said: “As we invest and further develop our business across the Asia Pacific region it is fundamental to build our team to support our plans for continued growth.

“With more than 25 years of international experience, covering both commercial and consumer insurance, including time spent in the region, Ken is perfectly placed to oversee and execute our

The Importance of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to Industry

In today’s world of business industry, the need for formalities is more urgent than ever as technology becomes a perceived challenge and opportunity to circumvent proper ways of conducting business transactions. Micro to small firms including not-for-profit firms, are finding themselves ‘wanting’ as they trade formalism for informal means of doing business including funding or investment endeavours. Having a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) can provide great dividends for companies or firms of any composition, size or stature. Besides service level agreements (SLAs) and other legally-binding contracts, MOUs are worth their ‘weight in gold’ based on a set of widely-held principles.

Firstly, there are two types of MOU -bilateral and multilateral. The bilateral deals with an agreement between two Parties while the multilateral is an agreement comprising over two Parties. They represent implic-

it agreements where mutually inclusive and beneficial expectations and interests that are reflected in such agreements. Specifically, using covenant/ statute formats, MOUs usually include approximately nine areas of concern including:

• Names of Parties involved in the citation or being named in MOUs.

• The mutual interests they have in the provision of periodic goods and services.

• Roles and responsibilities of each Party.

• The process of dealing with confidential information including data.

• Level and type of financial commitments involved.

• Manging the non-solicitation of goods and services by third Parties.

• The process of implementing the agreement.

• Secondly, although an MOU is not legally enforceable, it defines the resources (financial, human and technical) that are needed to ensure that goods and

strategic plans in this important region for our insurance business. Having been a pivotal leader in our Tokyo office for almost two years, Ken has demonstrated a commitment to promoting best practices and reinforcing strategic alignment between Sompo and the other Sompo Group insurance companies.”

Sompo would also like to thank Daniel for his contribution to Sompo and the Asia Pacific region where he has held several leadership roles. He has made a significant impact on the development of both our brand and insurance business in the region and we wish him well in his future endeavours.

services are delivered to specification. For example, if there is an agreement to deliver X amount of goods and Y unit of services, and one party fails to deliver, then such action may constitute a breach in an MOU. Thirdly, an MOU is different to a traditional contract. The former is based on a common understanding involving different Parties and it is legally binding. Most of interests have economic and financial implications or ramifications for either Party. If for example, contracts are not met, there are certain penalties that can be administered to ensure contract compliance. MOUs on the other hand, can be seen as ‘gentleman’s or gentlewoman’s agreements. They rely on qualities such o-operation, dedication, honesty, flexibility and intent – of all Parties concerned.

Fourthly, there are costs and benefits of establishing MOUs. The costs comprise risk reduction and a sense of surety, laxity of concluding agreements and they provide a framework for future transactions. The downside pertains to confusion and

double-meaning about the legitimacy of MOUs in general, bearing in mind that they are not enforceable. Then there are the unrealistic expectations if Parties are unable to deliver or perform. In the end, companies and charities can use MOUs to navigate their way through rather complex or tortuous legal agreements. Everything of course, depends on the honest intentions of all Parties concerned. Some will even say; the rest is up to GOOD FORTUNE!

by Dr. Christopher A. Johnson

INVESTMENT AHEAD TO GET EUROPE'S POWER INFRASTRUCTURE READY FOR NET ZERO

The EU has recognised the need to future-proof its power infrastructure to connect masses of new renewables and accommodate the increased electrification of industry, transports and heating.

It is time for national authorities to follow suit and allow system operators to make anticipatory investments to get our grid up to speed. The electricity industry's new report shows how to effectively enable such investments

across Europe. Today around 3,000 GW of renewable projects are queued up for grid connection worldwide. In Europe, current regulatory frameworks allow distribution system operators (DSOs) to invest in building out the power grid only after a connection request is made. With faster decarbonisation and long lead times for grid buildout, addressing future electricity needs at the required speed and scale will be extremely chal-

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has announced the appointment of a new head of policy.

Emily Stubbs (pictured) has been promoted to the role, having been part of the Chamber’s policy team since 2017. In her new position, Emily will have full responsibility for development of the organ-

isation’s policy, campaigns and research activity.

The University of Birmingham law graduate joined the GBCC in 2017 as policy and patron advisor and earned a promotion to policy and projects manager four years later. In her most recent role as senior policy and projects manager, Emily managed the delivery of research and engagement projects

lenging. Grid investments cannot lag at a time when the EU is calling for electrification to reach 50% of final energy consumption by 2040. Changing course is however possible. Anticipatory investments can address the expected future infrastructure needs by looking beyond immediate requirements of generation and demand.

This was recognised in the EU electricity market reform and Action Plan for Grids but must

be urgently translated into national implementation. Eurelectric's Secretary General Kristian Ruby said: "National regulators must transition to a forward-looking mindset and allow DSOs to proactively invest in the infrastructure needed for net-zero.

“The cost of inaction for society will be much higher than temporarily investing at a higher level to ensure our grid can deliver all necessary services to society in a decarbonised economy." For

GBCC APPOINTS

NEW HEAD OF POLICY

with specific focus areas including education, employment and skills and business productivity.

During her time at the Chamber, Emily has also spearheaded the annual Growth Through People campaign, as well as delivery of the Birmingham Economic Review in partnership with the University of Birmingham’s City-Region Economic and Development Institute (City-REDI). In the past 12 months, Emily co-authored the West Midlands and Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), funded by the Department for Education and produced by Coventry and Warwickshire Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Greater Birmingham and Black Country Chambers. She said: “I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead the GBCC’s policy activities. My predecessors in this role have left big shoes to fill but I am immensely grateful for the support, knowledge and experience they have shared throughout my time at the Chamber.

“The Chamber serves a pivotal

role as steadfast advocates and the foremost voice for Greater Birmingham's businesses. I am committed to maintaining this legacy and look forward to working with my talented team to conduct independent, business-led research, facilitate the sharing of best practice between local businesses, and engage stakeholders on behalf of our members.”

Director of external affairs at the GBCC, Raj Kandola, said: “Since joining the Chamber in 2017, Emily has played a crucial role in shaping our policy output, with a particular focus on growing the reach and profile of the Birmingham Economic Review and Growth Through People campaign over the years. I’m delighted that she will be stepping up to lead the team that is responsible for our policy, campaigns and research activity.

“Under Emily’s leadership, I’m excited to see the development of the team as we continue to drive forward the Chamber’s External Affairs activity in the months and years ahead.”

this to happen, national regulators must remove barriers and incentivise DSOs to invest ahead with fair remuneration and a stable investment environment.

Given they are the ones managing delivery of electricity, DSOs should be entrusted to plan grid expansion and digitalisation.

This means stronger cooperation with transmission operators and local authorities in infrastructure planning in line with decarbonisation objectives.

To avoid complexity, anticipatory investments should be included within the existing tariff framework and incorporated into EU countries network development plans to ensure coordination and clarity. It's time to ensure society can benefit from decarbonisation in the long term, rather than solely focusing on short-term cost reductions. Eurelectric calls on policymakers and national regulators to swiftly enable anticipatory investments.

The following statement has been provided on behalf of all of the shareholders of Thames Water: "Shareholders and Thames Water have been working with the regulator Ofwat for over a year on how to address the complex challenges facing the business.

“These include both meeting current funding demands and the urgent need for substantial investment to improve performance. These discussions led to the submission of a business plan which included the largest ever investment programme by any UK water company – over £18 billion – to improve customer service and environmental standards.

“To support such unprecedented investment, shareholders committed to supporting a further £3.25 billion of investment on top of the

£500 million provided last year, and pledged to take no cash out of the business until a turnaround was delivered. This was a solution which addresses the root cause of Thames Water's challenges without the need for any taxpayer funding.

"However, after more than a year of negotiations with the regulator, Ofwat has not been prepared to provide the necessary regulatory support for a business plan which ultimately addresses the issues that Thames Water faces. As a result, shareholders are not in a position to provide further funding to Thames Water.

"Shareholders will work constructively with Thames Water, Ofwat and Government on how to address the consequences of Ofwat's decision."

PromotingExcellence

As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.

BLUE LAGOON ISLAND SPEARHEADS COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN THE BAHAMAS

Blue Lagoon Island continues its commitment to educational and sustainability initiatives, collaborating with the U.S.-based Iowa State University, The Bahamas’ First Step Academy, and The Bahamas Environmental Stewards Scholars (BESS) program.

Recently, 11 students from Iowa State University, primarily studying Events and Hospitality, embarked on a transformative educational journey at Blue Lagoon Island, part of a long-term partnership. Guided by Te-Shalla Clarke, Education and Sustainability Officer at Blue Lagoon Island, the students participated in interactive programs with dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. These encounters were designed to deepen their understanding of marine species and ecosystems. Additionally, the students participated in team-building exercises and discussions focused on the significant role of sustainability in the tourism industry.

“Our enduring partnership with Iowa State University, which began in 2013, underscores our shared commitment to environmental education and conservation,” Clarke remarked. “These initiatives not only enrich the educational experience of participating students but also reinforce the

importance of responsible tourism practices.”

John Kramer, a faculty member in the Hospitality Department at Iowa State University and the field trip organizer, emphasized the trip’s broader purpose: “We aim to expose students to diverse cultures and industries, preparing them for global experiences. We want them to recognize the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of tourism and hospitality.”

The collaboration extended beyond the field trip. Students participated in a beach cleanup at Jaw’s Beach in west Nassau, collecting over 600 pieces of trash, totalling over 175 pounds. This hands-on experience underscored the direct impact of human actions on coastal ecosystems, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship.

Blue Lagoon Island has embraced virtual learning to expand its educational outreach to First Step Academy, a primary school in The Bahamas. Te-Shalla Clarke recently hosted a marine education and conservation class in one such session.

The students connected via Zoom with trainer Keva Gifford, who taught them about dolphins and sea lions. These virtual classes expose students to marine education and conservation, bridging the

gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Furthermore, Blue Lagoon Island’s partnership with the BESS program, held by The Bahamas Reef Environmental Educational Foundation (BREEF) and The Cape Eleuthera Island School, offers immersive learning experiences for aspiring environmental stewards like Bahamian Chris Clarke, a high school senior from Loganville, Georgia. During his two-week internship, he learned about water quality, animal husbandry practices, and fish preparation.

He also achieved StarGuard Elite lifeguard certification while providing guests with educational information about marine species.

“These initiatives are instrumental in cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders.

“By nurturing a sense of stewardship and instilling a passion for conservation, we aim to empower students to become agents of positive change,” added Te-Shalla Clarke. Blue Lagoon Island remains steadfast in its commitment to education and sustainability. It continues to build partnerships with educational institutions and organisations that inspire environmental stewardship and promote conservation efforts.

PUPILS DON HARD HATS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CONSTRUCTION OF LATEST

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Primary school pupils this week swapped the classroom for a construction site in Sutton Coldfield for a lesson in housebuilding and health and safety.

31 children from Maney Hill Primary School were invited to McCarthy Stone’s Retirement Living development, Powell House on Holland Road, which

is currently being built. On the day, in Sutton Coldfield, in the West Midlans, the pupils met site manager, Lexi Kirby, to see how new homes are built and ask any burning questions about the construction process.

Highlighting the importance of site safety, the Year Four class, who are aged between nine and ten-years-old, were given high-

vis jackets and hard hats before watching the crane in action and hearing how it is used on-site. They were also given a demo on bricklaying and even had the chance to try it out for themselves.

To cement their legacy as part of the construction of Powell House, each the children from Maney Hill Primary School

brought a drawing or photo of the things they love in 2024 to place into a time capsule that has now been buried in the area of the building site that will become the garden of the development. It will be opened in 20 years’ time.

NEW PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT EXTENDS INTERNATIONAL REACH TO UZBEKISTAN

The University of Wolverhampton has further extended its international reach after signing a Partnership Agreement with a university in Uzbekistan.

The agreement was signed and sealed by the University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ebrahim Adia, following a visit to the country recently. The official Partnership Agreement with the International Digital University (IDU) will offer students the opportunity to study for degree courses in Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security and IT Technology.

Professor Adia said: "During the

course of my visit I met with the British Ambassador to Uzbekistan, the Deputy Minister for Higher Education and the Deputy Minister for Digital Technologies.

"It was a pleasure to discuss the Country’s 2030 Strategy and to explore how the University can contribute to the strategic priority of environmental sustainability and economic growth, particularly supporting the development of a global digital hub. We are confident that the level of IDU graduates will be at the same high level as our other students in different countries.

“Today, around 6,000 students around the world study on our

courses outside of England. Studying and diplomas at partner universities in France, Hong Kong, China, Nigeria, South Africa, and now Uzbekistan, go through the same quality control system, thereby ensuring their full compliance with the high level of British education."

International Digital University was set up in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in September 2021. The University’s Global Opportunities Office is the first point of contact for International and Transnational Education students going through the application process to becoming a student.

MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS

From the cellar to the world

CELEBRATING years

Adedicated sound selector championing Reggae Music now celebrating his 50th Anniversary, Wayne Irie has been a sensation from the late 60s right until now! of legendary Reggae sound selector

WAYNE IRIE WAYNE IRIE

Born and raised in Balsall Heath, in Birmingham, the Reggae music icon is now celebrating his 50th Anniversary. He began his love for music at the tender age of 8-years-old!

When asked about the first record he played, it was like pressing ‘play’, with 2 hours of gems coming from that one question. A talented selector, Wayne is a man who has been through many eras, creating some of the biggest mo-

ments in Reggae Nightlife. He started playing at Blues parties at his godmothers house - witnessing legendary sound clashes from the get-go. Irie was destined for a career in Reggae music - gone from playing in a cellar, blues and nightclubs, to now touring the world. His legendary interview with Etana reached over 10million viewsthe biggest in history for a reggae interview coming from the

UK. Wayne Irie has achieved massive recognition by the biggest Jamaican stars, with exclusive dub plates from the likes of Dennis Brown, Freddie Mcgreggor, Shabba Ranks, John Holt, Ken Booth, Bounty Killer and so many more, and the accolades soon followed - from The Phoenix Newspaper, where he was presented with a special award by Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni (King) of the Western

State of Ile-Ife, in Nigeria and he also received a Stereograph Foundation UK award. Not only has Wayne received awards, but presented them too, including to the iconic Bounty Killer. Wayne Irie’s life experiences should not only be a book, but a but a movie. Just imagine his first record that got the forward he still has up to this day!

MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH

Street Cred Magazine’s Mark Dwayne delved into the life and achievements of multi-award-winning Wayne Irie.

Mark Dwayne: So, Wayne, tell me about the time you first put the needle on the record?

WAYNE IRIE: I was 8 years old, and it started at 15 Oakfield Road, in Moseley – living, and growing up, with my godparents and my stepbrother, Tatta, who was the one who selected the sound system for Lord Collie. We’re talking 1968.

Imagine - a sound system in a basement. It was a cream amplifier, with some lights on it, and Tatta and I went down the cellar and started to play the sound because no-one was there. The smell was like a dungeon.

I can still smell it now. The family would come down, Tatta, his friends and I were there as young men playing music there, before it moved up into the living room. That’s how I really got to play the sound.

Saturdays used to be Blues night in that very room, before I moved to weddings, my first wedding. I wasn’t supposed to play there, and I tell you why.

As the DJ was taking a break, and the music cut, a family members scream: “Eh, Wayne, we know you love your music you can’t play a record?”

I looked into the record box and when I put the tune on, the place erupted. I found a next song before my brother took over. It was from that experience that my godparents brought me a record player.

Mark Dwayne:Tell me about the Blues party life.

WAYNE IRIE: My godmother Aunt Ida would keep Blues with Lord Collie Sound which my stepbrother Tatta & his friend Spanish Town played, sometimes there was another sound from Handsworth called Duke Sonny. I’ve still got the record I first played, my brother said this is the first tune you got the forward so you must keep it and up till this day I have it with Lord Collie name on it. I remember coming downstairs out my bed as a youth and seeing Lord Collie and Duke Sonny having a musical war. Duke played a song called ‘Cuban Blockade’ that was a big inspiration for me to become part of the Blues Dance Sound.

Mark Dwayne: How was school and growing up around music for you?

WAYNE IRIE: Growing up, all I wanted to do was play music.

I was a popular school disco DJ - at Bishop Challoner – where I played the big songs, like ‘Liquidator’ and many big tunes every week.

I had little interest in school back then. Every time a teacher told me to do an essay, I would blank out. But ask me about music - my knowledge was always there! I became a school class comedian, which got me into a lot of trouble.

Mark Dwayne: What was it like playing on Sound Systems?

WAYNE IRIE: As a youth, I gravitated to anywhere there was a sound system in the Balsall Heath-Moseley areas, like the Coach and Horses, New Inns, and The Cannon, on Edward Road.

I played Fletcher Sound, at the Coach and Horses, with Babyface, who all encouraged me. On the Blues scene, I was a part of Lord Merritone Sound, in late ‘73/74 where I met the late great Benjaman Zephaniah, who was my ‘mic-man’ at the time. This is where I really got recognised in the 70’s.

I remembered him telling me that he was going to London to pursue his poetry. He was the only Rasta I knew who had a spitfire at the time. He said he was going to sell that and pursue his dreams. RIP!

Mark Dwayne: What were the dangers of Blues life?

WAYNE IRIE:

Members of Lord Merritone Sound left and I ended up playing the sound on my own from 14 to 15 years old. I was locking down Balsall Heath. Here is where Quaker City, Studio City and Sir Christopher were ‘locking it’ down. I remember playing at the Carlton cinema and a big tune at the time; ‘What’s Happening’, by Boris Gardner, played, and, not even 30 seconds into song, the police raided the place - something I experienced so many times as a selector. Police raids because regular as we all know Blues parties were illegal back then.

Mark Dwayne: How important was being a Resident at legendary Front Line?

WAYNE IRIE:

It was playing at Front Line that really took off for me. I played 7 nights a week there. And, it was there where I met superstars like Cutty Ranks, Ninjaman, Sanchez and Frankie Paul.

Another place was the Crown and Anchor, where I met greats like Tenor Saw, Sugar Minott, Courtney Melody, amongst oth ers. I would also play with the late great Corporal Billy.

Mark Dwayne: Tell me some more about the Wayne Irie 50th Anniver sary Tour.

WAYNE IRIE: I’m set to play Cardiff, Shef field, London, Canada, Japan, the U.S.A. and 13 Caribbean islands in celebration of my 50th Anni versary. We celebrate 50 years of the man that started in cellar to now tour ing the world. Wayne Irie is a true inspiration and guide to show ded ication to a much-loved art form, and not giving up any time soon.

Mark Dwayne: Congratulations to Wayne Irie on 50 years of contribu tion to the Reggae culture.

ADOPTION & FOSTERING

FAMILIES URGENTLY NEEDED TO ADOPT CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS

Children with additional needs wait an average of 11 months longer in care than their peers and voluntary adoption agencies are urgently looking for people who can offer them a permanent and loving home.

Kent-based Diagrama Fostering and Adoption is among 21 Voluntary Adoption Agencies from all over the UK that have together created a guide for people considering adoption containing helpful information and advice from parents who have already adopted children with additional needs.

Kate Patel, Head of Fostering and Adoption at Diagrama said:

“It may sound daunting for people thinking about adoption to consider a child with additional needs but our adoptive parents

who have done so say it is incredibly rewarding. It gives a child the chance to flourish and to grow up with the love and security that every child deserves.

“All children can have additional needs at times. These could be to do with their development, learning, communication, behaviour or emotional well-being. There are also children with physical disabilities.

“Many of the thousands of children waiting in care who have additional needs, wait nearly a year longer than other children. We want to change that.

“We are excited to be part of this project sharing first-hand, heartfelt experience and advice from families who have already done this incredible thing of adopting a child with additional needs. If you live in Kent, Surrey, Sussex

‘Depression inspired me’ says foster mom

currently looking after a 15-yearold foster child.

or South London and would like to explore adopting, please do get in touch.”

Voluntary Adoption Agencies are specialists in finding families for children who wait the longest in care. They work in partnership with regional adoption agencies and local authorities to find families for children waiting for a permanent home.

Voluntary Adoption Agencies are independent, not-for-profit organisations that have intensive services to provide families with vital support both when the children are placed and into the future.

Satwinder Sandhu, Chief Executive of the Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies which represents Voluntary Adoption Agencies across the country said:

“We are so grateful to the adoptive parents who have contributed

to help people who weren't supported, to advocate for them," she said.

"In a way (depression) kind of helped me to understand and help others." According to The Fostering Network, there were more than 57,000 children in England living with foster families on 31 March 2022.

The charity said thousands of new foster families were needed every year. Ms Telfer began fostering after a friend, also a foster parent,

to this new Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies advice guide to share their personal experiences of the reality of adopting a child with additional needs.

“What is clear from their advice is that there may be challenges but they are far outweighed by pride, joy and love. And so prospective adopters should not rule themselves out of being able to achieve the same in their own families.

“The voluntary adoption sector are specialists in finding families for children who wait the longest to be adopted and being there for them with bespoke, lifelong packages of support.” To find out more about adopting with Diagrama, visit: www.diagramaadoption. org.uk.

suggested it.

When she met with recruiters in 2006, she said she immediately felt a pull. "I thought, this is what I want to do. Kids and animals are my passion," she said.

Her first foster child, a teenage girl, arrived six months later.

Over the years, Ms Telfer has challenged social workers, sheltered toddlers and been a mother to them all - all while working and raising her own family.

She has had a bedroom wrecked,

How to strengthen community-based foster care for children in need in India

An estimate says that over 140 million children globally are experiencing the loss of one or both parents.

In South Asia, India has the largest number of orphaned and vulnerable children. Around 39 per cent of the country’s population — 472 million — are children below the age of 18 years, according to Census 2011. India has an estimated 29 million orphaned children.

In 2022-23, 57,940 children received support through CCIs and 62,675 through non-institutional care, MWCD said December 20, 2023 in response to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

The National Family Health Survey-5 reported that three per cent of children in India were not living with a biological parent and five per cent were orphans with one or both parents who have died.

The percentage of children who are orphans rose rapidly with age, according to the report, from less than 1 per cent among children under age 2 years to 9 per cent among children aged 15-17 years. The northeast region had the highest percentage of orphaned children (6 per cent or more in every state except Tripura).

The Juvenile Justice Care and Protection Act, earlier the Integrated Child Protection Schemes and now Mission Vatsalya, is emphasising it. However, due to several bottlenecks it hasn't taken off at the expected pace.

In India, foster homes hold up to only 500,000 children at a time

with the average duration of stay for each child being around two years. Under the MWCD guidelines released in 2016, children in the age group of 6-18 years, whose parents are unable to take care of them due to reasons such as mental illness, poverty or imprisonment, and those staying in childcare institutions, can be placed in foster care.

The lack of proper awareness involving village-level child protection committees, non-availability of frontline workers dedicated to child protection, less emphasis on identifying eligible foster parents and making them interested to apply for foster care, apathetic attitude and lack of patronisation by the appropriate authorities are the major stumbling blocks.

CWC (Child Welfare Committee) and district child protection units are the major stakeholders to facilitate the foster care process. Every child has unique potential and they deserve love, affection and care of a family. Foster care is one such mechanism which offers a family-based support to those children who are not with their biological parents. Community centric family-based care significantly improves the situation of the children in all aspects.

Schemes like Mission Vatsalya have enough opportunities and scope to expand support, protection and care to the children in terrible need through foster care mechanisms. A collective effort of civil societies and government will bridge the shortcomings in implementation of the scheme.

toddlers screaming in her ears, been sworn and shouted at, a seven-year-old who refused to sleep and spent hours worrying about a placement who tried to run away.

"Don't come into fostering thinking it's all fairytales," she said.

"You need to come with a blank slate. Every child is different. You can't think any one child is the same. You're setting yourself up for failure if you do that." Ground rules are a must. She tells every child who walks through her door

to be honest and be happy.

The bonds she has formed with her placements are what has kept her fostering, she explains. She has been invited to birthdays, births, is sent messages and photos, and gets called mum.

Ms Telfer has called the fulfilment she gets "unparalleled". But after almost two decades of fostering would she do it all again?

"Without a doubt," she said.

56-year-old, from Earl's Court, west London, has been fostering for 18 years and has looked after 14 children. She is

Ms Telfer, who has two adult daughters and grandchildren, said it was her own experience with depression that inspired her to foster. "I saw how people were treated when they were ill and that's when I realised I wanted

Foster mum Sharon Telfer has been shouted and sworn at, had a bedroom trashed and worried about a runaway child - but would do it all again.

The

EDITORS NOTE

Yes Street Credders, how are you all! Have to say 2023 is looking amazing for the world of entertainment as the big old skool artists are coming over to UK and of course we are well in to get the exclusives.

We celebrate 25 years of Street Cred a true Birmingham legacy, a magazine that has been the eye of entertainment and letting you know whats hot and not whats not because that doesnt matter, if its in Street Cred you know its the top flavour.

Look out for the best places to go right here from Restaurants, to Bars and Concerts.

This is the lifestyle Always cutting edge and representing the street culture positively! Mark Dwayne

PIXIE LOTT PLAYS SURPRISE CHARITY SUPPORT GIG AT BATTERSEA POWER STATION

Pixie Lott wowed unsuspecting Battersea Power Station shoppers when she and her band played a surprise pop-up charity gig.

The surprise 'Life Lounge' performance was in conjunction with Cancer Research UK helping launch their new 'Plays for Life' playlist - a new initiative alongside their famous Race for Life charity run. She was heard singing classics like Boys and Girls, All About Tonight plus a sneak peek of her new hits. Cancer Research UK has invited the nation to submit their favourite songs to the 'Plays for Life' playlist to mark the launch of the Race for Life 2024 season. Pixie said: "So many of the im-

portant moments in my life have a particular song linked to them, evoking a memory which takes me straight back.

“Music is such a powerful tool and I'm excited about adding my track to the Plays for Life playlist and hearing what other songs are being added. Every time I hear Everybody's Talkin' I think of my Nan. "I love that it is an emotional song, but that it has a positive feel, that's why I thought it would be a great addition to the playlist. Race for Life is such an important event, helping to fund vital life-saving cancer research, so I'm delighted to play a small role in getting the message out there."

The gig was held less than

a mile from where the first Race for Life started in 1994. The new Plays for Life scheme is twinned with Race for Life after new research found the majority of British adults who listen to music find it motivates them when they exercise (92 per cent), and that music makes them feel that they have a boost of energy when doing so (91 per cent).

So, the playlist aims to inspire people to sign up for a local Race for Life event and provide some extra motivation for those who may be training for a Race for Life near them this year, with the message that every step taken helps to fund life-saving cancer research.

All of Hong Kong is a stage for Art March

and

More than a dozen major events, including

Kong, the Asian debut of ComplexCon and the inaugural Hong Kong International Cultural Summit, as well as various open-air programmes transformed the cityscape into a colourful canvas.

Art Basel Hong Kong returned to pre-pandemic levels featuring with 243 elite galleries from 40 countries and territories around the world, while Art Central welcomed over 41,000 visitors to view around 500 contemporary artworks by local and international emerging talents.

Iconic Victoria Harbour served as the focal point for "Art@Harbour", which comprised five large-scale projects. Among them, the art-tech installation "Resonating Life which Continues to Stand" featured hundreds of colourful luminous ovoids in Admiralty. Across the water in Kowloon, "Voyage with Van Gogh" (pic) delighted visitors at the Cultural Centre Piazza, while the West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade hosted "Ephemeral", a world-class international light and sound installation of giant translucent rainbow-hued bubbles.

Hong Kong's strong tradition of film was in focus at annual events such as the Asian Film Awards, and the Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART) that gathered renowned industry players and over 750

worldwide exhibitors. Martial arts fans were treated to tribute exhibitions for late legendary martial arts novelist Dr Louis Cha (aka Jin Yong), with giant statues and sculptures of characters from his novels presented at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum "A Path to Glory - Jin Yong's Centennial Memorial, Sculpted by Ren Zhe" and The World of Wuxia at Edinburgh Place in Central.

The International Cultural Summit at West Kowloon Cultural District drew over 1,000 arts and cultural thought leaders globally. Speaking at the occasion, Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee highlighted the city's appealing cultural diversity, and the commitment to develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange.

"Hong Kong is the only city in the world that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage," Mr Lee said.

LIZZO TO 'QUITS' AFTER BEING TARGETED FOR HER LOOKS

It has been announced that US pop star Lizzo has said that she is quitting because she is fed up with being targeted for her looks and character online.

In a post on Instagram, she wrote: "I'm starting to feel like the world doesn't want me in it."

She did not clarify if this meant she was leaving the music industry or social media. "I'm getting tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the internet," Lizzo wrote. Her post comes a day after a lawyer representing her former dancers criticised the decision to choose the pop star to headline a fundraising event amid accusations made against her last year. The dancers' allegations included sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment, which Lizzo has denied.

"All I want is to make music and make people happy and help the world be a little better than how I found it. But I'm starting to feel like the world doesn't want me in it," Lizzo wrote in her social me-

dia post.

The singer, 35, said that she was constantly up against lies, which she said were being told about her for "clout & views". She added that she felt she was the butt of the joke every single time, because of how she looks, and her character was being picked apart by people who don't know her.

"I didn't sign up for this," she concluded. "I quit."

Stars were quick to show their support for Lizzo. Commenting on her post, reality TV star and entrepreneur Paris Hilton wrote:

"We love you queen."

Destiny's Child singer LeToya Luckett added: "You are deeply loved."

Lizzo is known for celebrating her body and self-love but has also spoken out in the past about hurtful online comments about her looks. Last year, she said that she had received a new wave of body-shaming comments on X, formerly Twitter, that included speculation about her diet and whether she eats a lot of fast food. "Y'all don't know how close I be

to giving up on everyone and quitting," she wrote at the time.

Last August, three of her former dancers sued Lizzo over claims including sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez are the former dancers bringing the case against the singer, her dance captain and her production company.

The legal action includes accusations of sexual, religious and racial harassment, discrimination, assault and false imprisonment. Lizzo is also accused of fat-shaming Ms Davis on tour.

The singer claimed the allegations to being "false and as unbelievable as they sound". Lizzo was last seen when she performed at Radio City Music Hall in New York for a fundraiser for US President Joe Biden.

Lawyer Ron Zambrano, who represents the three former dancers, reportedly said: "It's shameful that Lizzo would be chosen to headline an event like this amid such egregious allegations."

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPECIALISTS COLLABORATE TO

Solus Power, a leading innovator in electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with global defence and security company, QinetiQ. The strategic partnership aims to research and develop advanced EV charging solutions, appropriate to fleet charging and infrastructure, as well as to the specific needs of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), by leveraging the respective expertise of the two organisations. Solus Power is embarked on development of a cutting-edge mobile EV solution centred around modular, stackable and easily transported power units, each of which is the size of an attaché case and which can be both easily deployed and shared between users.

In parallel, QinetiQ has been working with customers in the defence and security industry to understand the challenges, threats and opportunities posed by cli-

mate change. One such challenge is how to flexibly charge EVs across diverse locations and infrastructural settings, in some aspects mirroring challenges experienced in high demand civilian applications such as airport parking, car hire management and the general operation of car parks.

The collaboration between the two companies sees QinetiQ supporting Solus Power to understand the needs of defence and security customers globally, in addition to providing their expertise in power sources and electrification. This collaboration underscores QinetiQ's ongoing efforts to partner with SMEs and academic institutions to tackle pressing customer challenges, including those related to climate change and energy transformation.

The focus on mobile EV charging highlights the evolving landscape of defence and security infrastructure, recognising the importance of sustainable and adaptable ener-

gy solutions. In November, Solus Power showcased its technology at QinetiQ's 'Understanding Tomorrow's Sustainability Technology Today' event, highlighting its potential to contribute to a more sustainable, efficient and flexible energy future for defence operations.

"Solus welcomes the opportunity recognised in this MOU to collaborate with an organisation of QinetiQ's standing and experience in the defence sector, and with its exceptional record of innovation and solutions development", said Solus Power CEO, Stas Leonidou. Victoria Doherty, Head of Electrification, QinetiQ, added: "Enabling the flexibility to provide electric power wherever and whenever it is needed underpins future operational advantage.

“By working across sectors to transfer existing solutions, we will accelerate success in this area."

“Sales of electric vehicles are still

despite the

earlier

week,” Ian Plummer (pic), Commercial Director at Auto Trader, said.

“While the fleet side of the market is driving the growth, more needs to be done to stimulate electric vehicle demand among private buyers where affordability remains the #1 barrier.

That said, manufacturers are fighting harder than ever to tempt customers, as more than three-quarters of new EVs are now advertised on our website with discounts, with the average discount applied increasing to 11% last month.

“That trend only looks set to accelerate as manufacturers struggle to meet strict ZEV mandate targets in a much more competitive landscape. The arrival of

new Chinese entrants is likely to continue to shake up the market and bring down prices for consumers.

“Their share of new car advert views on our platform has more than tripled since March 2021. Underlying demand from consumers also remains strong after a record 89.1m visits to our website last month.”

rising,

gloom from Tesla

in the

MOTORS

DUBAI-BASED COMPANY TAKES FLIGHT WITH LANDMARK ORDER FOR OVER 100 FLYING CARS

Aviterra, a Dubai-based company concluded a deal with PAL-V to bring flying cars to the Middle East and Africa. Aviterra is acquiring over 100 PAL-V Liberty flying cars, making an investment, and formalizing a partnership for the Middle East and Africa.

Aviterra, run and backed by one of the founders of Jetex, a global leader in executive aviation, sees PAL-V's appeal in its last-

mile solution and regional air mobility offerings. Mouhanad Wadaa, Managing Director of Aviterra, explains, "The PAL-V is the perfect tool for our customers' regional travel requirements, offering a combination of flying and driving. It's truly an innovation that will change mobility as we know it."

The PAL-V Liberty, known as the world's first real flying car due to the combination of a gyroplane and a car, addresses the need to travel independent from

(congested) roads and enhance travel flexibility. With a flight range of 500 km and a maximum airspeed of 180 km/h, the Liberty shortens commute and travel times.

"While running a business aviation company, we've always kept a close eye on the emerging Advanced Air Mobility industry," notes Wadaa, highlighting the unique opportunity PAL-V presents.

"PAL-V's long-standing presence and adherence to existing

regulations allow our customers to safely FlyDrive using existing air and road infrastructure.

Furthermore, PAL-V is the only player that combines flying and driving into one vehicle.

“No other player in the market offers this combination and can realistically deliver the vehicles in the near future." Loggia Investment, the investment arm of Aviterra, has made a strategic investment in PAL-V and established partnership for the Middle East and Africa region.

PAL-V's CEO and Founder, Robert Dingemanse, welcomes the partnership, after going on to say: "Aviterra and Mr. Wadaa have vast experience in aviation, understand our certification process, and have an excellent reputation in the business aviation industry.

“They are a strong partner to support our sales and marketing activities in the Middle East and Africa, which is headed by our VP Middle East, Khalil Malaeb." PAL-V is setting up re-

gional offices around the world to grow its flying car business. These regional offices are hubs for PAL-V's sales, maintenance, flight training, and assembly locations. Dingemanse teases forthcoming highlights, saying: "In the coming months, we have more updates on development and certification successes, confirming our lead in the emerging AAM market."

Food & Fine Dining

A FATHER AND SON SEE THEIR HOMEMADE JAMAICAN PATTIES NO ALDI SHELVES

Afather and son duo, from London known for serving homemade Jamaican patties to the local community, have won a televised competition that sees their authentic products making their way onto the shelves of Aldi superstores.

Flake Bake was launched in 2012, four years after Mike Williams’ dad, Paul, bought the retail unit housing the original bakery he worked in when he moved from Jamaica in the 90s. Since then they have sold over six million patties but since entering Channel 4's 'Aldi's Next Big Thing' the scale of the business has skyrocketed. Mike, 33, said that the victory felt 'surreal'. "I was just a guy making patties in a bakery in Peckham and selling them to anybody that wanted to buy and now we are going to be on a supermarket shelf,” he said.

“It’s such a great accomplishment!"

Flake Bake handmake 20,000 patties a week in their premises and have now partnered with a big manufacturer to keep their authentic look and flavours and supply them to over 1,000 Aldi stores.

Mike first heard about the show when his friend sent him a link to an application in June 2023.

"We had a lot of debts coming out of Covid and I thought closing was probably the best thing to do,” he said. “My friend sent me a link to the application and I thought if I am going to close up then I've got nothing to lose.

"Four days after I applied, I heard back from the production company. My dad was in Jamaica and we had a Zoom call with them and they liked the idea of me and my dad working together."

The following months were crazy for the duo, as they had to present

their product to Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, work on their packaging and branding and figure out how to expand the shelf life of their patties. "When we realised that we had won, it was just surreal!

"I think me and my dad barely spoke on the drive home because it meant we were going to be on a supermarket shelf. We didn't have any clue and knew we couldn't do that."

Mike explains how since October it has been non-stop making sure the patties are ready and expanding Flake Bake. "After the win the work tripled as we weren't in a position to manufacture the amount of products needed,” he said.

"I worked with a large manufacturer, and we have worked with food influencers. We have gained so many followers and I am getting messages every single day and people coming down to our

Qatari food company Baldana is signing an agreement with the Algerian government to establish a farm to produce powdered milk in the North African country, a source familiar with the matter told Doha News.

The Qatari agricultural company plans to inaugurate a farm that extends over 100,000 hectares and produces 200,000 tonnes of powdered milk annually. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune disclosed that the North African country is on the verge of signing an agreement with an "Arab partner" to start producing milk powder locally in pursuit of "self-sufficiency," revealing that the farm will be made in Adrar, southwestern Algeria.

Qatar's Baladna is the largest com-

Chef Biswal announces Morocco culinary tour

bakery to buy individual patties." Flake Bake co-owner, Paul, 54, says: “We have a great relationship, running the business as father and son. The beauty is my son coming alongside me and making it a better business. I love what I do, I love baking, it’s a great product.

“I cannot explain how happy I am right now. I am very proud of my son, without him, it couldn't have happened.” Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “You can’t help but fall in love with Paul and Mike, and their product tastes beautiful. It’s clear how much care goes into making the product.

“The pastry is unbelievable, every part of it is delicious - I just love it!” Mike and Paul appear on Aldi’s Next Big Thing on Channel 4 on Tuesday, April 9. The series airs every Tuesday at 8pm until May 7.

pany in the country for milk and dairy production, emerging in the global market after the 2017 GCC crisis shifted the Gulf country's production objectives. Trading on the Qatar Stock Exchange since October 2019, Baladna has expanded its brand both locally and globally and is home to one of the largest cattle farms in the region — spreading over an area of 2.6 million square metres.

Last year in July, Baladna bought another division of shares in Egypt's Juhayna Food Industries. The acquisition comes after the wholly-owned Qatari firm first raised its stake in Juhayna Food Industries to 10.1% in May 2022 in a deal worth QAR 2.5 million. Publicly listed, Juhayna produces and markets dairy and juice products and has four production facilities across Egypt.

Dev Biswal, owner of The Cook's Tale restaurant in Canterbury, in Kent, has announced 10-day culinary tour to Morocco (27th September to 6th October).

The tour costs £3250, with a nominal £200 additional charge for solo travellers, including flights ex Gatwick, wine tasting, cooking class, guided visits and 19 sumptuous meals. The trip comprises 4 nights in the vibrant city of Marrakesh, another 4 in the charming coastal town of Essaouira and a night in the magical Agafay Desert.

Dev will also be leading a return visit to Croatia and one to his native India in 2025. Details to be announced. The Cook's Tale is a fine dining Anglo-Indian venue, offering “modern Mumbai dining” on a “hyper local culinary journey”.

Restaurant diners have the opportunity to sample Biswal's unique take on Moroccan food, with a special 8-course Seafood Tasting Menu which highlights the commonality between Moroccan and Indian food. The menu features: Mango sharbat lassi; Turmeric seafood soup with stuffed cocktail paratha; Crab samosas/brouiats; Tandoori sardine; Prawn kofta in a spicy Harissa sauce served with saffron rice pilaf; Wild bass tagine with garam masala and naan; Warm semolina halwa with orange blossom and cinnamon ice cream; and Moroccan chai with handmade biscuits.

“Visiting Morocco for the first time was a real eye-opener,” said Biswal ,who grew up in Kolkata, “I was amazed by the similarities in Moroccan and Indian cuisines,

our food and cultures have more in common than I could have possibly imagined.” Biswal rebranded his restaurant (formerly The Ambrette) and closed his outlying two restaurants of the same name in Margate and Rye, to refocus his attention on guided culinary tours and cookery masterclasses. The name pays homage to the character of apprentice Perkyn Revelour, in Geoffrey Chaucer's C14th 'Canterbury Tales' anthology, who is “rather fond of wine, women and song.” Closer to home, Dev also runs Canterbury Experiences which offers tailored 'culinary pilgrimages', taking in the local area's beautiful countryside, working closely with local partners and Visit Canterbury tourist office.

He grew up in Orissa, was educated in Calcutta and trained at the Dubai Sheraton, before moving to London, aged 26 in 2003 for spells at Mangoes and Eriki before he was a partner in The Indian Princess, in Margate, in December 2006, then patron in 2010. His restaurant is recommended by all the country's top restaurant guides, including Michelin, AA, Good Food and Harden's. Dev was the resident chef on Channel 4 TV's 'Superscrimpers', showing how to prepare gourmet meals on a budget. Other awards have included. 'Best Restaurant' at the coveted Taste of Kent Awards; 'Best Indian Restaurant' by Morrisons magazine; 'Best Restaurant in the South East' by the Cobra Good Curry Guide.

And he was named Asian Chef of the Year at the Asian Restaurant Awards in 2019.

UK COMEDY FESTIVAL INKS NAMING RIGHTS DEAL WITH COBRA BEER

One of the UK's largest open-air comedy festivals has announced a partnership with Cobra Beer, with the popular brand taking on naming rights for the major event taking place between Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May 2024 at Warwick Castle.

The festival, Cobra Beer presents Comedy at the Castle, will feature 13 of the UK’s best comedians as seen on TV and film including Simon Amstell, Rory Bremner, and Nina Conti, taking to the stage at the historic and iconic English landmark in Warwickshire. Cobra Beer, designed to be paired with food, will be available at the festival site alongside award-winning street food from eight acclaimed food traders, cocktails, and fizz bars.

Beef on the Block, Brum Mi, Cleopatra’s Kitchen, Leave It To Esmie, Libertine Burger, Only Jerkin’, Thats Amore and Urban

Cheesecake have all been confirmed to serve up at the weekend celebration of food, drink and comedy. Cobra Beer presents Comedy at the Castle, presented by Midlands-based comedy promoters Closeup Comedy, Digbeth Dining Club and Warwick Castle, promises an unforgettable experience within the breathtaking surroundings of the riverside medieval heritage site.

The 2024 line-up will see 13 of the UK’s best comedians Maisie Adam, Eshaan Akbar, Simon Amstell, Stephen Bailey, Angela Barnes, Matt Bragg, Rory Bremner, Nina Conti, Gary Delaney, Janine Harouni, Spencer Jones, Matt Richardson, and Freddy Quinne (pic) take to the mic. Jack Brabant, director of Cobra Beer presents Comedy at the Castle said: "With just over 10 weeks to go until the festival, we're so delighted to be able to announce Cobra Beer as headline sponsor for the weekend.

“Cobra is one of the most popular beer brands in the UK - we've seen firsthand at our venues just how popular it is via tap and fridges. Given how synonymous Cobra Beer is with eating quality authentic food, particularly Asian food, working with the team there seems like the perfect fit to enjoy some of the best outdoor dining offers in the UK alongside the best comedians in the world at Warwick Castle this May." Since launching in 1989, Cobra has become the go-to beer in the market for its unique ability to accompany Asian food; brewed to sit neatly between a lager and an ale - Cobra is less carbonated than regular lager in order to complement a broad range of cuisines. The beer's distinctive low carbonation and smoothness make it the perfect accompaniment to dishes from around the world.

K-POP STAR KARINA AND ACTOR LEE

JAE-WOOK SPLIT AFTER GOING PUBLIC

AK-pop star who had to issue a grovelling apology to fans for having a boyfriend is single again.

Karina and actor Lee Jae-wook

rocked the K-pop world when they went public with their relationship in February, with some

angry fans accusing her of "betrayal". Lee's agency C-JeS Studio confirmed the break up, saying he wanted to "focus on his filming projects".

They added that the duo would "continue to support each other as colleagues". The backlash - which also saw Karina criticised for be-

She pledged to show fans a "more mature and hardworking side" in future. Some fans drove a "protest truck" to her management agency when the news broke.

"Is the love given to you by your fans not enough?" blared an electronic billboard on the vehicle.

aespa, which debuted in 2020 with the single Black Mamba, is expected to release a new fulllength album this quarter.

Lee, 25, gained prominence after starring in the hit fantasy period drama Alchemy of Souls. He also stars in the Disney+ original series Royal Roader which was released in February.

Karina's apology and now, breakup, offer a glimpse into the

world of South Korea entertainment's super fans, who are increasingly trying to dictate their idols' private lives. Theirs is not an isolated incident.

Days before, South Korean actors Han So-hee and Ryu Jun-yeol had also announced that they have separated - just two weeks after publicly acknowledging their relationship. The couple parted ways following a backlash from fans, who accused them of being in a "transit relationship", noting that Ryu had recently ended a seven-year romance with his Reply 1988 co-star singer-actress Lee Hyeri.

Han, who most recently starred in the Netflix period thriller Gyeo-

ngseong Creature, took to Instagram last Friday with a lengthy and emotional message disputing the allegations. "Any more of these groundless speculations and it will really wear me out," she wrote in the post, which has since been deleted.

After the split, Han's agency 9ATO Entertainment said: "The two both found their roles as actors to be more important. They promised to no longer be emotionally exhausted with their personal life."

Last October, Blackpink singer Jisoo and actor Ahn Bo-hyun ended their relationship just two months after they said they were dating.

ing an irresponsible frontwoman of her four-woman group,

aespa - prompted her to issue an apology on Instagram, where she vowed "to heal the wounds" she had inflicted.

"I apologise for surprising you greatly," wrote the singer, whose real name is Yu Ji-min.

The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Jamaica

May 13, 14 and 15

The Gambia Experience supporting 'Sunshine with Smiles' to deliver new mammogram machine

The Gambia Experience have just announced its collaboration with the UK charity ‘Sunshine with Smiles’ in delivering essential components for a state-of-the-art mammogram machine set to be installed at Banjul Hospital in The Gambia.

Once operational, it will significantly enhance healthcare services for Gambian women in the fight against breast cancer. This initiative was spurred by a recent visit from Mr Steven Bick, a dedicated representative of ‘Sunshine with Smiles,’ while on a holiday arranged through The Gambia Experience.

Having identified the need for specialist parts to complete the installation of the mammogram machine, he approached The Gambia Experience to facilitate the transport of vital components received from the USA on to The Gambia via the tour operator's Gatwick charter flight. Delivered to Banjul on Friday, April 5th, The Gambia's British High Commissioner, Harriet King, is overseeing the components swift delivery to Banjul Hospital. Expressing her gratitude, she remarked: “This will make a huge difference to women in The Gambia. “We are thrilled to receive the shipment, thanks to the work of 'Sunshine with Smiles,' and to The Gambia Experience for its continued support."

Ms King went on to highlight the importance of the advanced mammogram machine's installation in offering a premier facility for breast cancer detection and diagnosis, thereby providing crucial support to Gambian women in their health journey.

GYM EXPANDING INTO COFFEE MARKET WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE WORLD'S FIRST FIT-CAFÉ CONCEPT

GymNation, the homegrown UAE fitness brand, has today announced that due to unprecedented growth, it is reaching capacity across its 12 UAE gym locations and diversifying into a new market, brewing up a storm with the launch of its first-ever branded coffee shop.

By creating weighted coffee cups and utensils that double as dumbbells, The Daily Grind FitCafé aims to promote active lifestyles by turning every sip and every bite into a rep. Other features include a queuing system

that pushes you to run while you wait and espresso's that require some pulling power to grind down fresh coffee beans.

Loren Holland, Founder and CEO, GymNation said: "GymNation launched because we felt for too long UAE residents had been overcharged for substandard gym facilities.

“We've now grown to 12 locations, with twelve more in fit-out and over 65,000 members, becoming the UAE's largest gym.

However, as we continue on our ambition to make going to the gym less intimidating, more affordable, accessible, and fun for

everyone we are reaching the limits of our ability to take on new members."

"Core to GymNation's DNA is to challenge tradition and coffee is ripe for disruption with the UAE's coffee sector expected to grow to over $325m by 2028*.

The Daily Grind café will do for coffee culture what GymNation has done for health and wellness.

Some might think this is a tall order, but we're serious about giving this our best shot.

“It's a frothy market, but as we have done with the gym industry, we are ready to roast the competition by making even going

for a coffee an opportunity to stay active and improve health and well-being, with the world's first-ever Fit-Café concept."

GymNation is offering unlimited free coffee for 1 year to the first 100 people to register on https:// gymnation.com/coffee.

As the region's leading gym operator, it has 12 UAE locations and 65,000 members, who aims to become the largest gym chain across the GCC with further expansion planned across the region including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

New Laser Skin Clinic to open with world’s first FDA approved technology

Laser Skin are just about to open their newest clinic in Birmingham’s famous, Jewellery Quarter, located on Fredrick Street - with the creation of three new jobs.

The new clinic will be using the most advanced laser technologies to treat hair removal, sun damage, facial and leg vessels and fungal nail. It’s the world’s first FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved technology that is used within the NHS.

The refurbishment has cost in excess of £110k directly spent with local contractors. Jewellery Quarter Clinic Owners, Jeevan & Jas Tiwana, Comments: “We're thrilled to become part of the Laser Skin family and are looking forward to the exciting journey ahead as we join forces with this esteemed laser hair removal brand, delivering quality treatments to our valued clients.”

The Jewellery Quarter launch is following on from the outstanding success of Laser Skin’s first clinic in Edgbaston, which opened less than 20 months ago and clinic number two which was launched in Lichfield recently in January 2024. Laser Skin Franchise and Edgbaston Clinic Owner, Davinderjit Bhandal, said: “It’s a pleasure to see our third clinic open in the Jewellery Quarter, being a brummie myself it’s an area I know well, it’s busy and offers great potential for businesses.

“I know the clinic will grow quickly and support the local community with more jobs and sponsorships very soon.”

GUYANESE-AMERICAN ACTRESS, DAWN LEWIS,

TO BE HONOURED IN NYC

Caribbean-American

actress Dawnn Lewis

will be honoured at the upcoming annual Schneps Media Caribbean Impact Awards, known for recognizing exceptional individuals of Caribbean descent. A distinguished Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and acclaimed actor, Lewis has made a significant impact on the entertainment landscape while dedicating herself to philanthropic

initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged youth and grassroots organizations. Born to Guyanese parents and hailing from the vibrant neighbourhoods of Bedford-Stuyvesant and Flatbush in Brooklyn, Lewis exemplifies

excellence and compassion in all her endeavours.

“Being honoured at the Caribbean Impact Awards is deeply meaningful to me as it recognizes my journey of empowerment and service as a proud representative of the Guyanese community,” said Lewis.

“As an actor, storytelling has been my tool for inspiration and social change, while my philanthropy directly impacts those in need. This

recognition reinforces my belief in the power of unity, resilience and collective action for positive change.”

As founder and CEO of A New Day Foundation, Lewis advocates for underprivileged youth and supports grassroots nonprofits globally. Her charitable efforts have impacted communities across the United States, as well as in Guyana and India.

Dawnn holds an Honorary Doc-

torate in the Humanities, recognizing over four decades of dedicated service. She is currently participating in a historic reunion tour with the cast of A Different World, marking 37 years since the show’s inception.

They are embarking on a 10-city tour, visiting a series of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation to share their experiences and memories.

Small and medium-sized businesses in Dudley can access financial support from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II will deliver £400 million of new funding to small and medium-sized businesses across the Midlands.

The fund aims to build on the success of the first Midlands Engine Investment Fund and will drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating opportunities for new and growing businesses in the Mid-

lands.

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II offers a range of commercial finance options with debt finance from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million. The fund covers the whole of Midlands, including the West Midlands, East Midlands and South East Midlands.

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is increasing the supply and diversity of early-stage

finance for smaller businesses across the Midlands, providing funds to businesses that might otherwise not receive investment and helping to break down barriers in access to finance.

The new fund has embedded Enivronmental, Social and Governance (ESG) awareness into its design and will help support the UK economy’s transition to net zero.

In conversation with Dee Burrowes

Transforming Entrepreneurship and Shaping Our Future with AI Revolution.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and redefining the way entrepreneurs operate. This technological revolution is not only transforming the way businesses function but also presenting new opportunities and challenges for aspiring entrepreneurs.

One of the most significant impacts of AI on entrepreneurship is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. Entrepreneurs can now leverage AI-powered software to handle mundane activities such as data entry, scheduling, and customer support, allowing them

our values and principles. Moreover, AI is revolutionizing the way businesses interact with customers. Using chatbots and virtual assistants, companies can provide personalized and immediate assistance to their clients, enhancing the overall customer experience. AI algorithms also enable businesses to analyse vast amounts of data to gain valuable insights into consumer behaviour, preferences, and trends, empowering them to make data-driven decisions and tailor their products or services accordingly.

The impact of the AI revolution on entrepreneurship is the

ment, the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront, reshaping industries, economies, and societies in trendy and transformative ways. From personalized recommendations on streaming platforms to autonomous vehicles navigating our streets, AI has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, revolutionizing how we work, communicate, and even entertain ourselves.

In the realm of finance, AI-driven algorithms are optimizing investment strategies, detecting fraud, and enhancing customer service experiences. From robot-advisors to algorithmic trading, AI is

virtual assistants to provide personalized and round-the-clock customer support, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. By leveraging AI algorithms to analyse customer data and behaviour, entrepreneurs can also tailor their products and services to meet evolving consumer preferences, ultimately driving business growth and profitability.

The retail industry has also been transformed by AI, with personalized shopping experiences becoming the new norm. AI-powered recommendation systems analyse consumer behaviour and preferences to offer tailored

to focus their time and energy on more strategic initiatives. This increased efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also enables entrepreneurs to scale their businesses more effectively. As the World continue to witness the AI revolution unfold, it is essential to approach its integration with caution and foresight, ensuring that it serves to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. By harnessing the power of AI responsibly, we can create a future where technology enriches our lives in innovative and trendy ways while upholding

democratization of technology. AI-powered tools and platforms are becoming more accessible and affordable, allowing entrepreneurs to leverage advanced capabilities that were once only available to large corporations with substantial resources.

Whether it's predictive analytics, natural language processing, or computer vision, entrepreneurs can now harness the power of AI to enhance decision-making, streamline processes, and gain valuable insights into their target markets.

With technological advance-

democratizing access to financial services and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their money. With the benefits of AI come ethical considerations and societal implications. Concerns around data privacy, algorithmic bias, and job displacement have sparked important conversations about the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.

Moreover, AI is revolutionizing customer experience and engagement. Entrepreneurs can utilize AI-driven chatbots and

product suggestions, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, AI is transforming the landscape of e-commerce and digital transactions. Advanced algorithms are powering recommendation engines, allowing

businesses to suggest products or services to customers based on their browsing history, purchase behaviour, and demographic information. Additionally, AI-driven predictive analytics are helping companies optimize pricing strategies, inventory management, and supply chain logistics, leading to improved profitability and competitiveness.

However, the widespread adoption of AI in entrepreneurship also raises important questions about ethics, privacy, and job displacement. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into business processes, entrepreneurs must prioritize ethical considerations, ensuring that AI technologies are used responsibly and transparently. Additionally, there is a growing need for policies and regulations to safeguard consumer data and mitigate the risks associated with AI-driven decision-making.

AI revolution also poses challenges for entrepreneurs, particularly in terms of competition and workforce transformation. As AI technologies become more widespread, entrepreneurs must navigate an increasingly crowded market and differentiate their offerings to stand out. Additionally, the integration of AI may require entrepreneurs to upskill their workforce or even restructure their business operations, leading to potential resistance and organizational friction.

One of the most prominent areas experiencing the AI revolution is healthcare. With AI-powered diagnostic tools, medical professionals can now detect diseases earlier and more accurately, leading to better patient outcomes. Additionally, AI algorithms are streamlining administrative tasks, enabling healthcare providers to focus more on delivering quality care to their patients.

Despite these challenges, the AI revolution presents immense opportunities for entrepreneurs to innovate and disrupt traditional industries. By embracing AI technologies and staying agile in their approach, entrepreneurs can gain a competitive edge, unlock new revenue streams, and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly digital economy. Furthermore, AI is revolutionizing transportation with the development of autonomous vehicles. From self-driving cars to drones delivering packages, AI is reshaping the way we move goods and people, promising safer and more efficient transportation systems for the future.

In conclusion, the AI revolution is fundamentally changing the entrepreneurial landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges for aspiring business leaders. AI revolution is not just a trend; it is a transformative force reshaping our world in ways we never thought possible. Embracing this revolution with open minds and thoughtful consideration will pave the way for a future where AI enhances every aspect of our lives, making our world a better and more connected place.

It is essential for businesses to approach AI adoption thoughtfully and ethically, recognizing both the opportunities and challenges that AI presents in the modern business landscape. By harnessing the power of AI to enhance decision-making, improve customer engagement, and drive innovation, entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in the dynamic and ever-evolving business environment of the 21st century.

Contributor’s BioDee Burrowes, Certified Professional Coach, NLP Practitioner, Speaker, Trained Teacher, International Awards Judge, Associate Governor, Mental Health and Behavioural Disorder Coach. In 2020, Dee was featured in global publications, awarded for her work in Life Coaching and Hotel, Tourism Education 2022. Newly awarded winner in the Caribbean Global Awards in the category of Journalism and Literary September 2023.

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” —Princess Diana.

Holiday and

Travel

When does a holiday begin?

Many would say the moment you step off the aircraft and feel the breeze of a new climate, however the new London to Bolzano route with SkyAlps ensures that the journey is very much an important part of the travelling experience, with South Tyrolean wines and local treats on board, a closer look at the Dolomites at lower altitudes and guaranteed no middle seats. With a brand-new London Gatwick to Bolzano route, the Italian boutique airline is only just getting started.

• New Summer Schedule: SkyAlps are delighted to announce the launch of the spring/summer schedule from London Gatwick to Bolzano, commencing on 17 April 2024. SkyAlps will continue to bring the Dolomites closer than ever to the UK market, after successfully launching the connection from Stansted this winter. The new schedule can be found on their website.

• Guaranteed 80% Snow: The Dolomites have some of the best snow machines and can guarantee 80% of slopes open even if little snowfall is planned. Fly out from London Stansted to Bolzano until the spring/summer schedule begins from Gatwick.

• Never Stuck in the Middle: Unlike regular jet planes, you'll never be stuck in the middle, because on this prop-plane, there isn't one! Two seats each side and a

ITALIAN BOUTIQUE AIRLINE SKYALPS TO FLY FROM GATWICK TO BOLZANO FROM APRIL 17

spacious aisle ensure maximum comfort and only ever a window seat or an aisle.

• The Sky's Ski Lift: Bolzano is a small, quick and efficient airport with very little queues, if any. Whisk through security and straight onto the slopes, cutting some transfer times from other airports, such as Innsbruck or Venice, nearly in half.

• Reach for the Mountains: SkyAlps' propeller plane flies much lower than regular jets, never exceeding 25,000 feet. This means that the passengers can

experience the Dolomites from a perspective rarely seen. Flying at a lower altitude can help with tiredness upon touch down. Moreover, it results in less emissions and thus a reduced climate impact.

• Local Delicacies: Travellers can relax and enjoy a premium experience aboard the about 2 hours flight with a wine menu in hand, comprised of South Tyrolean wines, all complimentary. SkyAlps have handpicked 48 producers of wine to feature in their rotating menus, including

four awarded quality wines every month. The in-flight complimentary snacks are also local delicacies with Italian flare, including full-fat yoghurt and fennel-flavoured Schüttelbrot, a regional bread.

• Lesser-Known Bolzano: A city in the northernmost region in Italy and one of the lesser-known destinations – Bolzano offers valleys, culture, vineyards and delicious cuisine. The new Gatwick route allows travellers to enjoy warmer temperatures in spring.

VisitEngland has announced Pete Chambers as the winner of its Tourism Superstar 2024 competition.

Pete from the Coventry Music Museum, a volunteer and the museum’s director and curator, secured the highest number of votes from the public and takes the crown from last year's winner Geoff Colvin. Second place goes to Robert Dennis Brown from the Dalby Forest Cycle Hub in the North York Moors. In third place is Emily Williamson from Pub Tours Ltd in the Peak District.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “Tourism Superstar is all about recognising those people within England’s tourism industry who go the extra mile for visitors and whilst all the fi-

Lío Mykonos brings the ultimate immersive experience back for 2024

Lío Mykonos, the renowned entertainment destination nestled between the seaside streets of the vibrant island, is returning to its Mykonos home once again for the 2024 summer season with doors open on 6th June with a brand-new show direct from Ibiza - 'Back to The Future'.

Set to redefine the island's nightlife experience once again with its unparalleled fusion of fine Mediterranean dining, mesmerising performances, and immersive storytelling, this new season promises to take guests on a journey through time and music, where past, present, and future collide in a spectacular display of musical mayhem, astounding artistry and showstopping performances.

"We are thrilled to bring the magic of Lío back to the shores of Mykonos," said Artistic Director Joan Gracia "With its unparalleled blend of innovation, artistry, and spectacle, the show represents a new chapter in Mykonos' nightlife scene, offering guests an im-

mersive entertainment experience unlike any other."

Head Chef Alkis Vardaramatos has curated a menu that celebrates Mediterranean cuisine with the essence of Mykonos; each dish honouring the island's rich culinary heritage. Paired with the world's finest wines and champagnes, every bite is designed to excite the palate.

And Lío doesn't end at dinner as the venue transforms into the Lío Club, immersing guests in a party where they can dance the night away to the best local and international DJs.

Reservations are now open on Lío's website at liomykonos.com. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday in June, every night in July and August, and from Wednesday to Sunday in September. After the show, Lío Club opens to the public at midnight. Tickets for the nightclub can be purchased separately, through the website, offering guests the option to go to the club without attending the dinner and show.

nalists are superstars there can be only one winner and we extend our huge congratulations to Pete.

“In the Coventry Music Museum, he has created a magical place for music lovers to connect with the region’s rich contribution to England’s musical heritage. His relationships with local musicians have brought unique exhibits to the museum, also drawing both domestic and international visitors to the wider area.

“Congratulations again to Pete and many thanks to all our wonderful finalists and to everyone who got behind Tourism Superstar this year and voted.” Chief Executive at the West Midlands Growth Company Neil Rami said: “I want to extend a hearty congratulations to Pete Chambers from the Coventry Music Museum, whose nationally significant achievement exemplifies the passion and expertise of the region’s tourism sector.

“The dedication of our tourism representatives contributes significantly to the region’s reputation within the UK and abroad – and fundamentally – helps to sustain an important aspect of both our economy and our culture. It’s encouraging to see their hard work recognised through VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar Awards, and even better to see a passionate West Midlands-er crowned the overall 2024 winner.”

This year’s Tourism Superstar competition ran from 19 February to 24 March and coincided with English Tourism Week (1524 March) with the public voting for their favourite amongst 10 finalists. Pete will collect his award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence event on 5 June at the Rum Warehouse at The Titanic Hotel in Liverpool. Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, supporting hundreds of thousands of small-to-medium sized businesses, employing 2.6 million people and, in 2022, generating £66 billion for the economy in domestic visitor spending.

DISCOVERING NEW HORIZONS WITH ROAD TRIPS ON THE CANARY ISLANDS

Calling all adventurers! Prepare to delve into the heart of the Canary Islands, where every road trip promises a new adventure and a fresh perspective.

Tenerife: Car Route Through the Heart - embark on a journey through Tenerife's vibrant centre, exploring Anaga Rural Park's ancient laurel forests and picturesque villages like Taganana. Marvel at the panoramic views from Mirador de Cruz del Carmen and immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage site of La Laguna, known for its colonial architecture. Conclude your adventure in the charming town of La Orotava, where beautifully preserved mansions and botanical gardens await.

Gran Canaria: Unveiling the

Southeast - discover the hidden treasures of Gran Canaria's southeastern region, starting in the capital of Puerto del Rosario. Explore the traditional architecture of La Oliva and soak in the coastal charm of Corralejo. Dive into the Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo, where towering sand dunes and beautiful beaches await.

La Palma: Exploring Santa Cruz and Beyond - begin your journey in Santa Cruz de La Palma, wandering its historic streets and marvelling at its colonial architecture. Head inland to Roque de Los Muchachos for panoramic views and stargazing opportunities at the observatory. Explore the coastal town of Tazacorte and nearby Los Llanos de Aridane, where vibrant markets and festivals celebrate the island's rich culture.

Fuerteventura: Coastal Charmsdrive through Puerto del Rosario's bustling streets before exploring the traditional villages of La Oliva and Corralejo. Discover the rugged coastlines and pristine beaches of Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo, offering a glimpse into Fuerteventura's natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Lanzarote: Journey Through the Centre - explore the heart of Lanzarote, starting with the otherworldly landscapes of Timanfaya National Park. Visit the picturesque villages of Haría and discover their rich cultural heritage, before venturing further inland to uncover the island's volcanic origins and unique charm.

La Gomera: Serene Southbound - embark on a tranquil journey through La Gomera's southern region, exploring the villages

of Valverde, La Dehesa, and La Frontera. From verdant valleys to rugged cliffs, each stop offers a glimpse into the island's breathtaking landscapes and traditional way of life.

El Hierro: Discovering the Northwest - uncover the hidden gems of El Hierro as you drive through Valverde, La Dehesa, and La Frontera. Explore dramatic coastlines, lush forests, and traditional villages, immersing yourself in the island's unique beauty and rich history.

These meticulously curated routes promise unforgettable experiences, from stunning landscapes to rich cultural heritage, inviting travellers to embark on a journey of discovery through the captivating Canary Islands.

The Bahamas shatters tourism records with over 9.65m arrivals in 2023

In an extraordinary display of the strength of our country's tourism sector, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is proud to announce record-breaking visitor arrivals for 2023, which exceeded the forecasted projections. Surpassing all previous records, the nation welcomed a total of 9,654,838 visitors in 2023, marking a historic milestone in its journey as a leading global tourism destination. Surpassing all previous records, the nation welcomed a total of 9,654,838 visitors in 2023.

This figure represents a 38% increase over 2022 and a 33% increase compared to the previous 2019 record. The 2023 result reveals a remarkable 17% percent increase in foreign air arrivals, totalling

1,719,980 visitors, compared to 1,470,244 in 2022.

This significant growth underscores the increasing appeal of The Bahamas as a premier air travel destination. Sea arrivals also saw an unprecedented surge, with 7,934,858 visitors in 2023, up 43.5% percent from the 5,530,462 who visited by sea the previous year.

The distribution of visitors across the 16-island destinations further illustrates the widespread appeal of The Bahamas. New Providence attracted 4,441,540 visitors, up 36%, compared to 2022. Grand Bahama welcomed 559,812 visitors, marking a 44% increase. The Family Islands saw an impressive 40% rise, with 4,653,486 visitors arriving by sea and air.

Canada-based Jamaican author, Kimberly Morgan, inspires with latest book release

Jamaican-born author Kimberly Morgan is hopeful that her book will continue to inspire readers.

The Canadian resident said that her faith-based book, ‘You Are Not Alone’, is geared towards getting her readers to step away from doubt and worry in the face of uncertainty. “Many times when people are going through low periods, it actually allows them to settle in that state,” she said.

“So, the book is actually to get them to get out of that mindset of doubt, worry, and fear and remind them that regardless of what’s coming to them, they can still be successful. It’s a faith-based book, so it’s not solely for those who are Christians, but also for non-believers and how they can lift their work in their journey.”

She hosted an official launch of the book (published by DayeLight Publishers) on January 5, at the Fellowship Tabernacle in Kingston, Jamaica. Morgan discovered her passion for writing when she wrote meditation pieces, which were read during some of the Sunday morning services at her church in her homeland.

Since 2017, she has also been a member of the Laud Dance Ministry and her passion and craft of dancing were enhanced under the leadership of Nickeisha Jones, founder and director of the dance school. In 2018, the Convent of Mercy Academy alumna went to Canada to pursue higher education and subsequently graduated from Durham College in 2020.

She has since been enrolled at the Canada Christian College to pursue studies in Theology and Christian counselling. Noting that the book—which is her first published work—took six months to complete, Morgan said she tried her hand at writing during the free time which stemmed from the coronavirus lockdown.

“I had just completed my studies in Canada and the only thing that was left for me to do was walk to the park and I love writing, so, I used the opportunity to pen how I was feeling…” she said. “In my time of loneliness, I decided to put pen to paper so that’s actually how it all started.”

Ms. Morgan has also gotten the opportunity to touch the lives of those around her through her current employment as a Shelter Supervisor at the Doors of Compassion—a 50-bed co-ed emergency housing focus shelter in Ajax, in Canada.

AMN utilises SpaceX's Starlink

Constellation to connect rural villages in Nigeria

AMN is pleased to announce that the first AMN base station is now live using LEO backhaul from SpaceX's Starlink.

In 2023, AMN announced a commercial agreement to use Starlink, SpaceX's constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, to connect AMN's mobile network base stations with high-speed, low-latency broadband services. By utilising Starlink terminals to provide low-latency satellite backhaul, we are able to deliver the full capability of AMN's unique multi-carrier radio access node (the ARN) with 3G and 4G as well as 2G, with ever-increasing amounts of bandwidth and data volumes demanded by subscribers whilst remaining economically sustainable.

The LEO backhaul also paves the way for AMN to deliver 5G services, targeted before the end of 2024. AMN began rolling out rural base stations in Nigeria in 2018, and the company now owns and operates 1600 base stations across the country.

Yebu was the first rural community to be connected using AMN's ubiquitous solar powered base station. The village is located approximately 80km from Abuja but can take four hours to reach due to road conditions.

Yebu is predominantly an agricultural community, with a market offering local farmers the opportunity to sell their goods. Since connecting the community in November 2018, AMN has processed more than 9 million voice minutes in Yebu, with significant growth in 2022 and

2023 following the BTS upgrade to AMN's own radio node (ARN). AMN became an OEM for RAN equipment in 2020 following the acquisition of Range Networks, and now operates more than 1200 ARN across Africa and Latin America. The impact of this strategic move is clear in Yebu. In 2023, the site processed almost three times the amount of traffic than it did in 2020.

On behalf of the Yebu community, Salihu said: "Yebu community was left behind and blind but the coming of Africa Mobile Networks in 2018 has made us to achieve a lot of things like police division station, 24 hours solar light and steady communication all over the world.

“Before then there was nothing like those things listed." AMN believes that all communities of any significant size should have access to telecommunication services to benefit the population educationally, economically and socially.

AMN has deployed over 4000 base stations across Africa and Latin America. Installation of new sites continues throughout 2024 in Nigeria, DRC, Cameroon, Madagascar, Ivory Coast, Benin and Rwanda.

At AMN, we appreciate that any solution to close the digital divide must be economically sustainable and offer a service of the same quality as in urban areas. From designing and manufacturing our own BTS, uniquely developed for the solar-powered rural site, to offering cutting-edge backhaul solutions, we are committed to bringing high quality connectivity to those living in rural and ultra-rural areas.

Indian woman, 99, granted US citizenship

An Indian woman has been granted US citizenship at the age of 99.

Daibai was born in India in 1925 but has been living in Orlando, Florida with her daughter. On X, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the news and described Daibai as a “lively” individual.

A picture featured Daibai proudly holding her certificate alongside her daughter and the officer who swore her in as a US citizen. The tweet read:

“They say age is just a number. That seems true for this lively 99-year-old who became a #NewUSCitizen in our Orlando office.

“Daibai is from India and was excited to take the Oath of Allegiance.

“She’s pictured with her daughter and our officer who swore her in. Congrats Daibai.” USCIS is tasked with handling immigrant visa petitions, naturalisation applications, asylum

applications and green card applications. The agency also handles petitions for non-immigrant temporary workers such as H-1B visas, which are used by hundreds of Indian techies to work in the US.

On social media, some netizens praised Daibai, with one commenting: “Finally! Congratulations to Daibai.”

Another said: “Awesome.”

However, Daibai’s story sparked a discussion over why it took so long for the US to complete the naturalisation process, especially since Daibai has been living in the country for years. One user sarcastically wrote: “Rumour has it that Daibai was in the Indian green card backlog, renewing her H-1B every three years, and now can finally retire.”

Another said: “Most Indians in employment-based green card backlog would look like this by the time they get their green cards.”

Many highlighted the waiting time to obtain a H-1B visa in

the US. Working professionals such as engineers, scientists and journalists face a minimum wait of 500 days for visa approval, with some waiting times exceeding 100 years.

One user said: “I think Indians should avoid pursuing studies in the USA.”

“Upon passing the exam, you receive a three-year work visa, but if you fail to secure an H-1B visa in the lottery after three attempts, you’ll be required to leave the country with an education loan burden.

“Consider other countries.”

Another said: “But most Indians who are employed in H-1B, unfortunately, won’t even get their green cards when they are 99 or even when they are 150 years old.” One comment read: “Of course, the people who are waiting in backlog currently may get citizenship at the age of 99 or might have died.”

A user asked: “What about people who have been paying lots of taxes and are Masters degree holders working tech jobs?”

CHTA remembers Warren Binder, a champion of Caribbean tourism

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is deeply saddened by the loss of Warren Binder, a cherished board member, who recently passed away at his home in Florida.

BRAZIL TO REQUIRE TRAVELLERS FROM THE U.S., AUSTRALIA AND CANADA TO HAVE VISAS

Starting from Wednesday April 10, travellers holding passports from the United States, Australia, and Canada will be required to obtain a tourist visa to enter Brazil via air, land, or sea, as reported by Agencia Brasil.

This change comes under Decree 11.875/2024, which extended the initial January 10 deadline by three months to mitigate negative impacts on Brazil's tourism industry during peak season.

This visa requirement reverses a decision made by former President Jair Bolsonaro, who had lifted such restrictions in March 2019 for travellers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan in a unilateral move, while

Brazilians still required visas for travel to those countries. Consequently, Itamaraty explained that the new measure is based on the principle of reciprocity.

In May 2023, Japan was removed from the list when Brazil and the island nation signed an agreement to waive visa requirements for tourists from either country for up to 90 days. Brazil's International Tourism Promotion Agency (Embratur) has launched a campaign through tour operators and airlines in the affected countries to remind their customers of the new visa requirement. Travelers from these countries intending to visit Brazil must apply for an electronic visa, known as the e-Visa, through the platform: https://brazil.vfsevisa.com,

at a cost of US$ 80.90, as highlighted by Agencia Brasil. The entire application process is conducted electronically, eliminating the need for applicants to visit a Brazilian consulate.

All required documentation can be uploaded digitally, and the visa is delivered via email. A printed copy will be required along with a valid passport for entry into Brazil. Travelers are advised to apply for the e-Visa well in advance to avoid potential delays or missed connections. The e-Visa allows multiple entries and has the same validity period as conventional visas: ten years for US nationals and five years for Canadians and Australians.

Global Aviation software specialist, Ramco Systems announced its strategic engagement with Korean Air, a flag carrier of South Korea and its largest airline, to implement its flagship aviation software, Ramco Aviation Suite at Korean Air's Engine Maintenance Centre.

The implementation of Ramco's Aviation Software will replace multiple legacy systems to streamline operations across current engine shops and planned expansion sites. With comprehensive MRO-specific functionalities, and integrated e-publications, Ramco Aviation will be the technological foundation for Korean Air.

Ramco's robust Engine MRO solution will cater to the current and future expansion plans

of the airline, thereby strengthening its aircraft engine maintenance capabilities and solidifying presence in the MRO segment. Chan Woo Jung, VP & Head – Maintenance & Engineering Division, Korean Air, said: "Airlines today are grappling with the need for efficient engine maintenance.

“These needs prompted us to embark on our ambitious journey to build Asia's largest engine maintenance complex and expand our capabilities to service more engine types. The implementation of Ramco's Engine MRO capabilities will help us enhance our facility's efficiency and precision and set new standards in engine maintenance, positioning us as a top MRO provider."

Commenting on Ramco's suc-

cess in MRO segment, Sundar Subramanian, CEO, Ramco Systems, said: "We are thrilled to join forces with Korean Air and support them in their expansion journey to emerge as the leading MRO provider, globally.

“Our relentless focus on building a best-in-class MRO Suite, complete with specialized Engine MRO functionalities has proved to be a game-changer."

Ramco Aviation Suite is trusted by 24,000+ users to manage 4,000+ aircraft globally. With 90+ Aviation organizations onboard, Ramco is the solution of choice for top Airlines, 3rd party MROs, large Heli-Operators, leading Defence organizations, and major Urban Air Mobility companies around the world.

Over the decades, Binder, who was named CHTA’s Caribbean Allied Member of the Year in 1999, made stellar contributions to the Caribbean tourism industry, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s hospitality landscape. He began his journey as a tour operator with Lee Cygelman in Cavalcade Tours.

He later established Certified Tours, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to advancing the sector. Binder’s passion for promoting the Caribbean led him to various roles within CHTA where he played a vital part in contributing to the organization’s strategic direction.

Vanessa Ledesma, CHTA’s Acting CEO and Director General, said Binder – a long-time member of the Executive Committee and former chairman of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace Governing Committee – was a dedicated volunteer and consummate professional who “will forever endure in the hearts of those who had the privilege of working with him.”

“Warren was a long-standing supporter of CHTA; he was a witty character that was very engaged and committed to the Caribbean,

the industry, and CHTA,” said Ledesma. “He was a committed and passionate volunteer at all levels across the organization and always available to support and lend his voice as a mentor. He was involved in major decisions across the organization over the years.”

Ledesma recalled Binder did not need to be front and centre to have his voice heard and was always working tirelessly behind the scenes. During the ’60s and ’70s, he worked closely with the legendary hotelier George Myers on marketing initiatives for The Bahamas.

Together, they helped establish the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board and the Paradise Island Tourism Development

Board, which set new standards for destination marketing, management and development in the Caribbean. “Warren’s legacy lives on through his countless contributions to Caribbean tourism and his enduring commitment to excellence.

His wit, wisdom and unparalleled dedication will be sorely missed,” reflected CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig. In lieu of flowers, Binder’s family requests donations to the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Education Foundation (CHTAEF) in his memory. Contributions can be made online at https://chtaef.com/index. php/2024/04/02/support-chtaefin-memory-of-tourism-expertwarren-binder/.

Creative Initiative

Plasma of Hope Sickle Cell Charity working in collaboration with RAF Museum Midlands.

Marie-Claire Kofi – CEO Plasma of Hope Sickle Cell Charity

Luke Perry – Artist/Sculptor Industrial Heritage Stronghold

Paula Kovacs – Community Engagement Manager, RAF Museum Midlands

Donald Campbell – Veteran RAF & CEO The Forgotten Generations CIC

Marie-Claire and Paula met in late 2021 at a One Walsall networking session, they connected and thought it would be a great idea to work together. Marie-Claire then approached Paula and they worked together to bring a group from Plasma of Hope to the Museum as part of their Heritage Trips for Young People, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Everyone really enjoyed this, and they stayed in touch, wanting to work together again.

Donald was introduced to speak about his experience of serving in the RAF and his view of life from a military perspective, especially as a person from a minority ethnic background. There were numerous questions from youngsters and adults, showing an intrigue into various aspects of aviation in the RAF. The group was later given the opportunity to dress in RAF uniforms and equipment such as clothing and aircrew helmets.

The opportunity arose when the Museum was successful with gaining funding from Arts Council England to engage with underrepresented groups. Paula approached Marie-Claire with the idea of a creative initiative. They wanted to work in a co-creation way. Marie-Claire wanted the young people connected to Plasma of Hope to have the opportunity to work with an artist in clay. Paula wrote a brief and put a call out for artists. There were quite a few applications, and these were passed to Marie-Claire and the group so they could choose who they wanted to work with. Luke’s application stood out and he was asked to be our artist.

The children were encouraged to draw the most interesting thing that they saw in order to start the creative initiative.

This was was followed by a tour around the museum looking at old and modern military aircrafts, including images and stories of WW2 veterans. The group also had the opportunity to visit and interact with some more modern aircraft and equipment in the National Cold War Exhibition.

The first session of the creative initiative at the museum went exceedingly well. This left the whole group very excited and engaged to continue to the second session.

The project consists of 3 workshops sessions with the group and the first session, was at the Mu

seum. The first session, Saturday 13th April 2024, at RAF Museum Midlands, where all met for the first time for viewing and experiencing the museum with drawing and photography. After an introduction to Paula Kovacs and her colleague Liz Chilver the group was led to a classroom for a group chat from Luke and Donald.

The second session, 20th April 2024, was in Walsall, Paula, Luke and Donald met the group again. Here the group modelled their favourite aircraft out of clay then covered them with Modroc. This was left to dry and in the final session the models will be painted.

Luke presented a very interesting and educational discussion about physical monuments and statues around the country, their history and importance, including those who are for and against their existence. This was very informative and interesting particularly after the Black Lives Matter movement and protests against some monuments and statues.

They also, using an armature, chose a picture of a person from the RAF that inspired them, then modelled the figure out of clay. These will be worked on in the final session, which will culminate in the group working on a pop-up exhibition that we hope to tour in local libraries.

Blog by Donald Campbell 20th April 2024

For decades, Rastafari have been prosecuted for their ritualistic use of marijuana. Some of those laws have eased, granting Rastafari sacramental authorization to grow the marijuana they deem sacred.

The Rastafari faith is rooted in 1930s Jamaica, growing as a response by Black people to white colonial oppression. The beliefs are a melding of Old Testament teachings and a desire to return to Africa - both of which are crucial worldview.

In ‘The Bible and Bob Marley: Half the Story Has Never Been Told,’ author, Dean A. MacNeil, writes that Marley’s personal Bible was a King James version, which included on its cover was a photocopied image of the late Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, who is worshipped by most Rastafari. The Rastafari message was spread across the world in the 1970s by the likes of Marley and Peter Tosh, another Jamaican reggae legend and globally known Rastafari - whose personal relationship with “Jah,” or God, is considered central to the faith. Rejecting materialist values and practicing a strict oneness with nature.

With the red, gold and green colours of the faith, Rastas followers believe the use of marijuana as a direction in biblical passages, with the “holy herb” inducing a meditative state bringing them closer to the divine - smoking it as a sacrament in chalice pipes or cigarettes called “spliffs,” adding it to plant-based organic stews and placing it in fires as a burnt offering.

For decades, many have been jailed and endured racial and re-

ligious profiling by law enforcement because of their marijuana use, and treated as second-class citizens across the Caribbean islands, and looked down on for their dreadlocks and use of marijuana.

“Ganja,” as marijuana is known in the Caribbean, has a long history in the Caribbean, and its arrival predates the Rastafari faith. Indentured servants from India brought the cannabis plant to the island in the 19th century, gaining popularity as a medicinal herb.

As public opinion and policy continues to shift across the world toward the legalization of marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes, Rastafari are demanding for broader relaxation to curb persecution and ensure freedom of worship. Some nations, including the Caribbean nation of Antigua & Barbuda, have granted the Rastafari authorization to grow and smoke the herb that they deem holy.

Many Rastafari sects worship Selassie, which is rooted in Jamaican Black nationalist leader Marcus Garvey’s 1920s prediction that a “Black king shall be crowned” in Africa, ushering in a “day of deliverance.” When an Ethiopian prince named Ras Tafari, who took the name Haile Selassie I, became emperor in 1930, the descendants of the enslaved in Jamaica took it as proof that Garvey’s prophecy was being fulfilled and when Selassie visited Jamaica in 1966, he was greeted by adoring crowds, with some Rastafari insisting miracles and other mystical occurrences had taken place during his visit to the island.

GSR, NCR REPORTING HONOURED BY RELIGION NEWS ASSOCIATION

In awards announced April 20, during the association's annual meeting held in Pittsburgh, GSR staffers Chris Herlinger, Doreen Ajiambo and Rhina Guidos, along with GSR freelancers Patrick Egwu, Thomas Scaria and Tawanda Karombo won third place in the Renner Award for Excellence in Enterprise and Serial Religion Reporting for the series 'Hope Amid Turmoil: Sisters in Conflict Areas.’

Brian Roewe, NCR's environment correspondent, won third place for magazine/nondaily newspaper religion reporting. In addition, NCR senior correspondent Heidi Schlumpf was named a finalist in the analysis and commentary categories.

The judges said of the yearlong series, which focused on the ministries and witness of sisters in countries riven by conflict: "The breadth of these stories about Catholic women religious serving in different communities around the world takes this series far beyond the focus of a single religious tradition to highlight the range of issues facing people of faith and the way they live that faith through service.

“The choice of stories, the writing and the photography make

for a complete package of superb journalism." Of Roewe's environmental reporting, the judges said:

"This sweeping portfolio of stories follows the Catholic Church's continuing call to action on climate change.

“As NCR's environmental correspondent, Brian Roewe takes us to school on how to cover a beat. This entry includes stories on the recent United Nations global climate summit, the politics behind the fight over using a company's faith-influenced environmental record to judge its investment appeal, and Honduras' problematic 'Dry Corridor,' now a migration catalyst for citizens fleeing the agriculturally ravaged land."

Founded in 1949, the U.S.-based Religion News Association is the premier professional association for journalists reporting on religion in American news media. The awards showcase reli-

gion journalism excellence in the news media among 13 categories of print, online, multiple media, broadcast and book entries, attracting entries from both secular and nonsecular publications that include National Public Radio, The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, the Associated Press, CNN, The Christian Science Monitor, Sojourners and Religion News Service.

The Religion News Association awards are the latest honours for GSR. The ‘Hope Amid Turmoil’ series was recently awarded highest honours in the Religion Communicators Council's 2024 DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards.

Contributions by Chris Herlinger, GSR's international correspondent, won Best in Class in the "Periodicals" category during the council's recent convention, held April

4-6 in Louisville, Kentucky. In addition, a story by Doreen Ajiambo, GSR's Africa/Middle East correspondent, has been longlisted in the One World Media Awards. Ajiambo's 2023 story, ‘Sisters foster healing for survivors and perpetrators of Sierra Leone's civil war,’ was also part of GSR's ‘Hope Amid Turmoil’ series. Ajiambo's story was one of 540 entries from 117 countries vying for the award and is among 10 publications included in the longlist print category, including international publications such as The Guardian, Reuters and The Economist, with the finalists named on May 8. The Religion News Association awards were announced at the 75th Anniversary RNA Conference banquet at the Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh.

PIC - Chris Herlinger, international correspondent for Global Sisters Report, accepts an award from the Religion News Association on behalf of GSR staff for the series "Hope Amid Turmoil" at an April 20 ceremony at the Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh.

HIGHLIGHTING THE BEST CARIBBEAN ISLANDS TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE

There are many beautiful paradisiac islands to look at when you’re ready to acquire new property.

For example, paying attention to the laws and restrictions for non-residents, the location in regard to tropical storms, whether the area is up and coming, and what kind of crowd it’s draws are all essential items to consider. The best Caribbean islands to invest in real estate will depend

on what you’re looking for.

For example, locations such as the Dominican Republic have a highly developed sector for tourism that welcomes visitors from overseas. It’s considered by many to be one of the best Caribbean islands, so due to a large number of tourists, new resort developments are always on the horizon.

If you are looking to acquire real estate and gain citizenship to a country, there are several island

nations that offer Citizenship by Investment programs. Some of the best places to buy in the Caribbean to take advantage of this offer include Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Lucia.

There are other islands that offer foreigners the ability to reside there with very few hoops to jump through. For example, you could easily buy Barbados real estate, as they welcome overseas buyers looking for invest-

ment property in the Caribbean and provide them with the same rights as Barbadian citizens. Additionally, the 12-month Welcome Stamp program they have in place makes it easier for people to visit you for up to a year (if they are accepted), and you can reapply after the year is up. When searching for fine homes and luxury living surrounded by idyllic golfing, shopping, and restaurants—all without losing the privacy that comes with a beachfront property—some of

the best Caribbean islands to invest in real estate include places like St. Barts, Turks and Caicos, or Barbados. With breathtaking beach views paired with ultra-luxurious homes, there is much to be said about these options being some of the best islands to buy property in the Caribbean. Be sure that as you look to purchase island property, you’re accounting for the type of area, the growth potential, all while finding a place that caters to your needs.

With many island offering its own unique features, when you’re creating your list of possibilities, people are considering the likes of Barbados as a candidate in a search for the best Caribbean island to buy a home, with its amazing amenities, growth potential, and opportunities to make money on investments.

It makes an exquisite backdrop for a luxury property while making dream of living on an island come true.

HOUSING MARKET SHOWING SIGNS OF PICKING UP

Signs of life were seen in the UK housing market in the new year with a rise in the number of mortgages being approved.

Activity remains weak overall, with potential buyers still nervous about high interest rates. But the latest Bank of England data shows approvals for house purchases rose to 55,200 in January from 51,500 in December. This was the highest level since October 2022, with borrowing on credit cards also picking up recently. People took on £1.9bn more in credit on cards, car finance and other loans than they repaid.

Mortgage lenders have been shifting the interest rates charged on home loans at a rapid rate since the start of the year. This started with some significant cuts to the cost of new fixed-rate deals.

However, in recent weeks, these rates have started to creep back up. Many potential buyers have put plans on hold in the hope that the Bank of England will cut the benchmark interest rate later in the year, which would influence lenders' decisions.

The upheaval over the past year is shown in the Bank's figures, which show homeowners actually repaid more money on mortgages than they took out in new lending in the year to January - the first time this has happened since comparable records began 30 years ago. This was mainly due to people being reluctant to borrow when mortgage rates were so high during mid-to-late 2023.

Mortgage repayments still outstripped new lending by £1.1bn in early 2024. Separately, property sales at the start of the year were slightly up compared with December, but 12% lower than

January last year.

Karim Haji, head of financial Services at KPMG, said: "While the rise in mortgage approvals offers some green shoots of hope for recovery, the housing market remains weak.

“With interest rates still relatively high, affordability will remain stretched." He said the increase in borrowing on loans and credit cards was a sign of people using their income to pay for Christmas, and then borrowing money to get them through January.

"Households will be looking to the Bank of England and the Budget for a cost-of-living lifeline,” he said. “And with credit defaults expected to rise further, lenders must ensure customers have the right support to weather the months ahead."

The housing market is a major factor in the performance of the UK economy as a whole.

MELBOURNE TO HEAR THE ROAR OF BRITISH & IRISH LIONS IN 2025

Melbourne, hailed as the sporting and events capital of Australia, will be hosting the much anticipated British & Irish Lions face off against Australia’s national rugby team, the Wallabies, on 26 July 2025.

This is the perfect opportunity for rugby and sports fans to explore and enjoy the many attractions and experiences Melbourne and Victoria have to offer. Tickets for the match are now on sale.

Played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a cultural icon and one of the most recognised cricket

grounds in the world, the match is one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the global rugby calendar as the British and Irish Lions only tour in Australia every 12 years. It marks the first British & Irish Lions Australian tour since 2013, where the UK national rugby team beat the Wallabies 2-1 in the Test series.

The British & Irish Lions match is a great addition to Victoria’s packed calendar of major sporting events for 2025, which includes the Australian Open (tennis), F1 Australian Grand Prix, Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup Carnival (horse race),

Australian Football League

ve Dimopoulos, Victoria’s Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events said: “Melbourne’s strong track record for hosting global sporting events makes our city the perfect location for a sporting contest of this magnitude.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming the British & Irish Lions squad next year, alongside the tens of thousands of diehard fans from all over the world that join them in experiencing our world-class city.”

Those thinking of visiting Melbourne to see the British & Irish Lions should consider extending

their trip to make the most of

Visitors can explore Melbourne’s iconic laneways and the Australian Sports Museum at the MCG before going off on an exciting road trip around Victoria. The compact state features a wealth of authentic Australian attractions on Melbourne’s doorstep: from pristine beaches and national parks teeming with wildlife to sweeping coastlines and one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road – plus superb wineries and dining options.

London Lions beat Besiktas for historic EuroCup win

London Lions became Britain's first European champions when they defeated Besiktas 81-70 to claim the EuroCup at a packed Copper Box Arena.

The Turkish side held a seven-point lead from the first leg in Istanbul and had a two-point aggregate advantage heading into the final seconds. But Holly Winterburn's three-pointer and two free-throws from Megan Gustafson sealed a famous Lions win.

Karlie Samuelson scored a gamehigh 19 points and was named the final's MVP. "I'm so proud of us,” she said after.

“We didn't come out how we needed to in the game in Turkey but we fought there, and that fight led us to this trophy. When Holly took that shot I felt in my soul it was in; we're a really close team and everyone stepped up."

Having lost the first leg in Istanbul 75-68, the Lions needed to win the second leg by eight points to claim the trophy. No British side had reached the final of a European basketball competition before, with the London Lions men's team eliminated in the semi-finals two weeks ago.

The Lions took a 23-17 lead into the end of the first quarter as they

started the match strongly and extended that to 45-35 at halftime. But Besiktas had pulled it back to a five-point game at 6055 by the end of the third quarter, knowing that gap would be enough to win them the trophy. But Winterburn and Gustafson's late scores in an incredible end to the match sealed the comeback win. Winterburn, 23, who will leave the club at the end of the season, said: "It went down to the final possessions - they made some big shots at the end, but we earned this.

"We deserved this, we've practiced hard every single day. The group has stuck together, I don't think I'll ever play in a team like this again.

"With the funding situation, it's not an option [for me] to stay and I'm sad about that. I can't thank London enough for what they've done for me and British basketball."

Winterburn and Great Britain captain Temi Fagbenle are among the players who will leave the club at the end of the season, with the Lions now unlikely to play in European competition next year because of a lack of funding.

the

Grand Final and The Ashes. Ste-

Melbourne and Victoria.

CRICKET TOURISM FLOURISHING IN THE U.S.

Cricket tourism is gaining momentum in the United States, spurred by a large diaspora population from cricket-loving nations like India, Pakistan, the Caribbean and Australia.

Florida-based Cricketbuster, founded by an Indian-American couple, is capitalizing on this trend by offering customized travel packages for international cricket tournaments and T20 leagues worldwide. Vinny Kumar, Cricketbuster's COO, explains their approach: "We're

Nike's Team USA track and field kit for women is needlessly revealing and sexist, women athletes have said after the U.S. sportswear brand unveiled its outfits for this summer's Olympic Games. Images recently made public of the women's kit on a mannequin, showing a very high-cut pantyline, triggered criticism from several athletes for what they saw as a decision to prioritise skimpiness over function.

developing sports e-commerce, offering all-inclusive packages with match tickets, accommodations, and more."

The company, endorsed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), ensures fans have a seamless experience, addressing concerns like accommodation and intercity transfers. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, Cricketbuster successfully organized trips for hundreds of fans to Dubai in 2021.

With the upcoming T20 World Cup in the US, the company aims to ensure fans secure tickets

from legitimate sources, preventing scams in the process. Kumar emphasizes the diverse fan base, highlighting the excitement around events like the India-Pakistan match in New York.

Cricketbuster offers comprehensive packages catering to fans from various regions, enhancing accessibility to these coveted matches. As cricket continues to grow in popularity across the US, Cricketbuster stands at the forefront, providing cricket enthusiasts with unforgettable experiences and reliable services.

Olympians criticise Nike for skimpy women's kit

Germany's women's gymnastics team wore full-length bodysuits at the Tokyo Olympics, in what they said was a stand against sexualisation in the sport, whilst Gymnastics New Zealand recently updated its attire rules to allow women and girls to wear shorts or leggings over their leotards. Nike said that it was offering athletes unitard options with both a brief and a short for this Olympics, whereas it only offered the brief for the Tokyo Olympics.

Nike's track and field kits for men and women include nearly 50 apparel pieces and 12 competition styles for specific events,

In a message, U.S. steeplechaser, Colleen Quigley, said: "They are absolutely not made for performance." Debate has raged for years over more revealing outfits for women Olympians in disciplines from beach volleyball to gymnastics, and some rules on competition wear are changing.

the brand said when launching the outfits. Meanwhile, in a post on X, Nike-sponsored pole vaulter, Katie Moon, said the kit shown on the mannequin was "concerning", but added that women athletes are given many options on what to wear, and that she prefers briefs to shorts.

A spokesperson for USA Track & Field said: "Athlete options and choices were the driving force for USATF in the planning process with Nike." U.S. middle-distance runner Athing Mu and the country’s sprinter, Sha'Carri Richardson, were among the athletes modelling Nike's Olympic kits at the launch show in Paris.

While Mu (pic) wore briefs, Richardson wore a version of the outfit with shorts. Quigley said Nike should also offer athletes who make the team custom tailoring to ensure the kit fits perfectly.

The biggest stars in women’s cricket kick-start a huge summer of sport in 2024, with a joint series alongside the men verses Pakistan.

Taking place on home soil at some of the biggest stadiums across the country, it starts right here with the first IT20 in Birmingham at Edgbaston on Saturday 11th May. England Women Captain Heather Knight will lead a talented line-up at Edgbaston including Nat Sciver-Brunt, the number one ODI batter in the world, Sophie Ecclestone, the number one bowler in the world, and some exciting young talent including Sophia Dunkley, Alice Capsey and Lauren Bell.

Fresh off the spectacle of last year’s ground-breaking joint

Summer of sport starts as women’s cricket takes centre stage

Ashes, the Pakistan series promises more unmissable action for fans from the Midlands. Following an unprecedented year in 2023 in both performance and fan attendance, England Women return to Edgbaston hungry for victory after narrowly losing to Australia last summer in front of a record-breaking crowd.

With the Birmingham fans roaring them on, expect next level cricket as England's women look to build momentum ahead of this year’s IT20 World Cup in Bangladesh. In the heart of a cricket mad, passionate local community, the Edgbaston match will not be one to miss, as the England and Pakistan fan communities unite for the ultimate celebration of cricket on what’s set to be an unforgettable afternoon.

To close out a big summer of sport, The Hundred returns to Birmingham for its fourth year on Saturday 3 August, with its fusion of action-packed cricket and unmissable entertainment which

generated record attendances in 2023. The tournament promises even more world-class men’s and women’s cricket and blockbuster entertainment, with live music performances through the ongoing partnership with BBC Music Introducing.

Issy Wong, Moeen Ali and the rest of the Birmingham Phoenix squad will return back to their stomping ground to compete against stars of the national teams and other huge names from around the world to be crowned champions in August.

England Women and Birmingham Phoenix wicketkeeper and batter, Amy Jones, said: "Birmingham is my home and I know how electric the Edgbaston crowd is.

“It’s going to be another incredible summer of cricket for both England Women and Birmingham Phoenix and I can’t wait to see packed out crowds cheering us on.”

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