The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 by The Phoenix Newspaper

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Inside This Edition

New Chapter For Ondo State Page 37

The former John Lewis MD speaks to The Phoenix Newspaper following the launch of his Renewal Plan for the West Midlands.

by Vivek Rajkhowa & Daniel Riley

onservative Candidate for West Midland’s Mayor, Andy Street was very clear in what he holds as his core values: Equality for all regardless of background, respect for one another and for British values, and hard work. These three values are values he said he took from his time at school and from his childhood. Andy’s passion about all things West Midlands came across very clearly as he talked about two issues that are dominating the national agenda. These issues being youth employment and the green belt.

Continued on Page 10

Commonwealth Youth Awards 2017 - Page 39

and much more...

Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

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New Boost To Promote Good Community Relations

ouncil chiefs have backed a new three-year deal with Rights and Equality Sandwell to help promote good community relations and tackle hate crime and discrimination. Councillor Syeda Khatun, the council’s deputy leader, said it was vital to invest in services to support people who are vulnerable, victims of crime or at risk of discrimination, exploitation, abuse and violence. She said: “We have a long history of strong community relations and partnerships here in Sandwell but we need to build on these and strengthen them further. “We are responding to vari-

t’s one of the most harrowing events in modern history, the ‘Partition of India,’ in 1947- when millions of people in the subcontinent woke up to find that they had a new identity. They were no longer part of British Indian; instead they were either ‘Indian’ or ‘Pakistani.’ The social, cultural and emotional consequences form the focus of a major new project by leading Birmingham-based arts and heritage agency, Sampad South Asian Arts. Supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the complex legacy and lasting impact on communities in the West Midlands, and wider afield, will be examined - particularly those of Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi descent as it captures personal memories from people who were directly affected by the sweeping turmoil-recording their first-hand experiences as well as uncovering stories that have been

ous challenges and threats – including hate crime and so-called ‘hidden crimes’ such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and modern slavery. “We’re also working with our communities to promote cohesion, protect young people and prevent the threat of terrorism and people being radicalised. “Rights and Equality Sandwell has been established in Sandwell for more than 10 years. It makes an important contribution in supporting the most vulnerable people in our communities. “Together with the police, NHS and local organisations, we can strengthen our response and further promote good community relations and

equality.” As part of the new agreement, Rights and Equality Sandwell will need to attract funding from other sources to complement the council’s support. It will also need to help other local groups and organisations develop local projects and attract investment. Key aspects of the plan include dealing with hate crime; protecting children and young people from exploitation, abuse and radicalisation; supporting vulnerable migrant

communities; and providing training for organisations about safeguarding, violence, exploitation and ‘hidden crimes’, including FGM and modern slavery. Permjeet Panesar, chief executive officer for Rights and Equality Sandwell, said: “We are delighted to embark on a new three-year partnership with Sandwell Council to carry on playing a leading role in tackling discrimination and inequality and working together to support all communities across the borough.

Revisiting ‘The Partition Trail’ - Voices of 1947

passed down through families. This was a result of monumental political decisions that were taken, as the British Government scrambled to ease its retreat from India and the Empire, against a backdrop of escalating political and social

tensions within the subcontinent, triggering the largest mass migration in human history, forcing the traumatic displacement of more than 14 million people. It provoked horrific violence and resulted in the loss of an

estimated two million lives. For decades since, prompted by a variety of factors, large swathes of people made the move from India and the newly created Pakistan, particularly from the divided state of Punjab, to settle in Birmingham and the West Midlands, with census records building a picture of the indirect influence of the Partition on patterns of migration and settlement in the region, which can still be recognised today. Urmala Jassal, Sampad’s Associate Director and project manager says: “2017 marks the 70th anniversary of India’s independence and people who have first-hand memories are now in their seventies. So it’s vital to preserve their recollections to inform future generations.”

Monthly views with Anthony Kelly

Not so Friendly Games?

t has recently been announced that the city of Durban in South Africa will no longer host the 2022 Commonwealth Games following the one to be held on the Gold Coast of Australia from the 4th 18th April 2018. Several cities including Birmingham and Liverpool are seriously thinking of putting in a bid to host the so called ‘Friendly Games’ in England instead and that fills me with trepidation on different levels. As a child growing up in Jamaica I vividly recall with pride just four years after Jamaica gained independence from Britain in 1962, the capital Kingston had the distinct privilege and still does of being the only Caribbean island to have hosted the Commonwealth Games four years later in 1966. I am a sports fan but Birmingham City Council need to explain to its citizens: Why without a major stadium which is always needed for the opening and closing ceremonies as well as the track and field athletics competition, would it consider such a bid of paramount importance in the current economic climate? It most certainly is not. Why is Birmingham City Council with limited money/resources due to cash cutbacks in after-school programmes/activities, libraries being closed, health and social care amongst the elderly and young children being curtailed, poor sanitation including a rather haphazard rubbish collection to name but a few wanting to get involved in this bidding process? It defies all logic, rhyme and reason wanting to be a potential bidder as this second city has enough to contend with including its current ten year programme of urban regeneration/renewal which is causing several road closures and traffic congestion for most road users. To some 2022 might feel like a far way off to construct a stadium but we should focus on getting the city back up and running from its current topsy-turvy state and get our house in order so to speak. I also remember the 1978 Games in Edmonton, Canada whilst visiting that country for the second time and for many years afterwards the tax/rate payers were burdened with paying off the debt for those Games. I do not wish Birmingham City Council to put us in that position by having to raise council tax in order to meet the shortfall as all one keeps hearing is how they need to save millions of pounds each year in order to balance the budget. Please leave this piped dream alone and focus on matters of more importance especially social care and welfare.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 3

DIAMOND TRAVEL CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Diamond Travel 3 Marks 30 Years YEA0RS Of Excellence

t was celebration time in Birmingham as noted and respected travel agent, Diamond Travel, marked its 30 years of excellence in business with news of them handling a greater number of Virgin Atlantic flights from their headquarters in Winson Green, in the city. Such was the relevance of the ‘30th Anniversary’ that Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Carl Rice, highlighted the fact that he had to

cancel several other engagements to make sure he didn’t miss this one. “With so many invites I was never going to miss this one,” he said. “There’s a synergy between Diamond Travel and I. “At the time when I stood for the Ladywood Ward, in 1987, I remember Beverly Lindsay starting up what was a small operation. “But, looking at it now, Diamond Travel is the leading travel agent, especially for flights to

the Caribbean. And for that, I am hugely proud of her.” Jamaica's newly appointed High Commissioner to the UK, George Ramocan, made a special effort to be present, in honour of one of the country’s ‘favourite daughter.’ With his wife, Dr Lola Ramocan, also at the celebrations, at the H Suite, in Edgbaston, H.C. Ramocan said; “Beverly is a ‘giant’ of a woman. Diamond Travel was so named because she herself was ‘cut’ from a diamond.

“I applaud her because she works so diligently for and with the Jamaican Diaspora in the UK ongoing. Beverly is worth celebrating.” Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL is also the chair of the Association of Jamaican Nationals (Birmingham) and serves as a Deputy

Lieutenant of the West Midlands. With Virgin Atlantic, the Barbados Tourist Board, Sandals, and the Jamaica Tourist Board all giving presentations on the night, as well as entertainment from singer Patricia Panton and limbo dancer Itara Mason, the 400 strong crowd gathered together by Beverly for this auspicious occasion were not left unimpressed. “It’s been 30 years of hard labour!” exclaimed Beverly, “I’ve seen good times and bad. We’ve been through a few recessions and world disasters since 1987 but by some miracle we are still standing.”

The room observed a minute’s silence for Jamaican folk singer Enid Rose Weir who died on March 25th. Virgin Atlantic has increased the number of flights to Jamaica, and the wider Caribbean, as it steps up with its new range of Airbus 350 planes due in service, giving greater comfort and options before, during and after the long hauls. Congratulations to Beverly and Diamond Travel for 30 years of Travel Industry Excellence!

Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

COMMONWEALTH DAY CELEBRATIONS

by Daniel Riley

s beautiful sunshine bore down on Birmingham, the Birmingham Commonwealth Association was in full swing with its Commonwealth Day Celebrations. The Birmingham Commonwealth Association, which has now been running for 3 years under the Chairmanship of Keith Stokes-Smith, once again brought business, community and education leaders together to cel-

Celebrat Culture Common ebrate the Commonwealth on Commonwealth Day on the 13th March. The morning saw the raising of the Commonwealth Flag at the Council House in Birmingham City Centre, which was attended by members of the Birmingham Commonwealth Association as well as local leaders from a number of Commonwealth Countries, as well as the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Carl Rice. As has been customary for the last 3 years, the BCA then moved onto the Birmingham Registry Office, where

a group of Commonwealth Citizens were awarded with their British Citizenship, and also with a congratulatory certificate by members of the BCA. This special citizenship ceremony was also attended by Vice Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands Colonel George Marsh TD. Chairman of the BCA Keith Strokes-Smith. Marcia Lewinson (Chief Executive of W.A.I.T.S.) and Nura Ali (Executive

Director Allies Network) spoke about the importance of equality between men and women and a significance of Commonwealth and UK values. Moving on to the evenings events, and the annual Commonwealth Day Networking Event and Dinner took place at University College Birmingham and was attended by the new Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Mr Crabtree and his wife, the Lord Mayor

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 5

ting the of the nwealth of Birmingham Cllr Carl Rice and Lady Mayoress Deed Curry, Marcia McLaughlin, Editor-In-Chief and Founder of The Phoenix Newspaper, Councillor Brigid Jones plus key representatives from the Birmingham Commonwealth Association. 80 guests were welcomed on the night, including BCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategic partners BCU and Birmingham Airport, plus local businesses, univer-

COMMONWEALTH DAY CELEBRATIONS

sities and BCA supported charities/ organisations, W.A.I.T.S. and Allies Network, who benefitted from a charity auction and raffle. The food and service on the night was impeccable, and was a credit to the students, their lecturers and the University, and was rightly commended with a certificate presentation by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress on behalf of the BCA.

The Birmingham Commonwealth Association Commonwealth Day Dinner was held at the BCU Brasserie, where students from the Hospitality and Culinary courses at the University were the ones who prepared and served the courses on the night.

The incredibly high standard of the food and service on the night was recognised by the BCA with a certificate presentation by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham for every student to receive a copy of in recognition of their hard work and continued effort.

Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

GRACE FOODS UK DOuBLE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Double Celebration

by Daniel Riley

elebrating two company milestones this year, Grace Foods UK and GraceKennedy are celebrating their 10th Anniversary and 95th Anniversary respectively, with the Global Business spanning multiple countries around the world. At a special event at their headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, invited guests were treated to a presentation about the company, new product news and information, and a tour of the facility, as well as a buffet of some of the delicious food that Grace is so well known for creating. Grace Foods UK was estab-

lished in 2007 and comprises of 5 trading divisions, distributing Grace-owned and principal brands throughout the UK, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The group heard from Managing Director of Grace Foods UK, Adam Reader, and Marketing Manager Nyree Chambers as they discussed where Grace Foods UK had come from, and the direction it will be taking in 2017 and beyond. A limited edition Caroilina Reaper Chilli Sauce, the hottest ever to be produced by a mainstream table sauce brand will spearhead the biggest ever new product development drive that Grace Foods UK has ever seen. New soup mixes, in Pepperpot and Tomato and Chilli varieties,

and major marketing drives for Nurishment and the Grace Aloe Vera drinks range as well as other undisclosed plans round off the brand updates. As part of these major brand redevelopments, the company has also pledged to raise £10,000 for charity. £5,000 will be donated to both The Angel Foundation, a UK-based charity providing the Jamaican health care sector with much-needeed medical equipment, and GroceryAid, supporting people in the grocery industry. Including Encona, Grace, Dunn’s River, Nurishment, Brunswick, Excelsior and more, the range and scope of Grace’s reach into the UK market and beyond had expended consider-

ably in the last few years. With Chadha Oriental, and Funnybones Foodservice, Grace are well positioned to continue this growth. As part of it’s 10th anniversary celebrations, Grace has also announced a collaborative scholarship/prize with Brunel University, London. The scheme in conjunction with the Reach Society is looking to address the under-representation of young male British students from a Caribbean background at Brunel, by providing the financial support to fully cover the cost of tuition at the university, as well as providing a paid internship of up to 10 weeks for the student.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 7

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Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Diversity Makes The World Go Round

by Dr Tony Talburt

ince the Brexit vote in June 2016 and the era of Trump’s political rise to power, culminating in his inauguration in January 2017, we have witnessed the resurgence of Far Right political parties and movements in a number of European countries. A common feature of these political initiatives, is their emphasis on an anti-immigration agenda. Proponents of some of these movements claim that the arrival of so many immigrants in their countries is changing the nature of host societies beyond recognition. In addition, according to the Guardian Newspaper online (7 September 2016), the number of hate crimes in England, Northern Ireland and Wales have increased significantly since June 2016. There has also been an increase in the number of violent attacks against Muslin and Jewish establishments in some states in the USA. The implication from such actions and sentiments seem to be, that changes brought about by foreign

immigrants is negative, and certainly not needed. This, however, gives rise to the question, what would have happened if people never left their homelands to venture to distant parts of the world. More specifically, what kind of Britain would we have had, had there been no contacts, whether directly or indirectly, with peoples from Africa, the Americas, or Asia? Far from being agents of negative changes, the position being taken here, is that immigration and contacts and interactions with peoples and societies in distant places, have resulted in significant positive changes for Britain. Whilst many people in Britain are worried about the increased numbers of immigrants arriving in the country, I would like to argue, however, that such diversity or variety is good for Britain. It seems to me, that the more people travel, work and settle in different parts of the world, the more they develop and move on. After all, most immigrants come to Britain to seek employment in order to improve themselves, and in so do-

ing, contribute to our economy. They generally contribute more to taxes than they receive in benefits. My question is however, do we really want, or prefer culturally homogenous societies where everyone looks the same, eats the same, and does the same things? Given the effect of globalisation and the inter-connected nature of our economies, one has to wonder whether countries can exist in a vacuum totally disconnected from one another. If we take the last five hundred years as a starting point, it becomes very evident that Britain’s involvement in different parts of the world, as well as the arrival of different ethnic groups in this country, especially since the second half of the twentieth century, have resulted in changes for the better. A few examples of some aspects of British culture clearly reveal that we are indeed greatly indebted to peoples and cultures from far away countries. In addition, many immigrants from the Commonwealth Caribbean as well as India and Pakistan have helped to diversity some aspects of

British culture. Today, for example, it is almost inconceivable to imagine a British society where no one drank tea or coffee, sweetened with cane sugar. It was Britain’s involvement with far away countries, albeit accompanied by the horrors of the exploitative colonial trades and slavery, that resulted in the introduction of new foods and drinks into Britain. Five hundred years ago, no one in these two islands drank tea or coffee, from Asia and Africa, respectively. If everyone had remained in ‘their own’ part of the world, these developments and changes might not have happened when they did. A similar example can be seen with regard to the British love for, and consumption of, potato. What if the potato, originally from South America (probably Peru), had not been introduced into Britain. A significant aspect of Irish history in the second half of the nineteenth century, would have been completely different. In fact, very few of the foods eaten in this country today, have their origin in Britain. Once upon a time, fish and chips was the most popular meal in Britain. Since the end of the Second World War, there has been a change. The good thing is, fish and chips is still popular, and can be obtained on virtually every high street in the country. The new development, however, is that curry is also popular. As I mentioned in my previous article in this newspaper, I occasionally go out for a meal. One of my favourite restaurants is the buffet type eating establishments, where there is a choice of meals from different parts of the world. Typically, foods can be found which reflect British, Chinese, Indian, Mexican and also Jamaican. This, to me, underscores the significance of diversity and variation brought about by the interaction of peoples from all over the world sharing the same space. One of the effects of the arrival of immigrants in Britain, is that new demands and ideas are introduced and people are presented with more choices. It is this kind of diversity and variation that plays a major role in helping to make the world move on.

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Why celebrate ‘Migrant Entrepreneurship’?

his can be perceived as both a rhetorical question and or asking the obvious point of reference. Each year, numerous ‘observances’ - from Commonwealth Day to Refugee Week and Enterprise Week are marked by pomp and ceremony. Very little is said about the ‘real’ contribution of minorities to the cultural, economic, educational, faith, social and technological fabric of ‘Great Britain’. And yet minorities, through their industriousness and worthiness, continue displaying loyalty and patriotism, almost fearlessly to ‘Queen and Country’. So again, the question is, why should we celebrate with a sense of dignity, honour and pride, the ‘true’ contribution of migrant entrepreneurship? After all, much [television and radio] air time and [newspaper and magazine] column inches, are spent on, and devoted to, the ‘might and right’ of large mainstream companies, as their ‘exploits’ to industry and the economy are extolled ‘to the rafters’. So why the same ‘reportorial or editorial treatment’ cannot be ‘extended’ to minority ethnic groups or migrant settlers who make up over 500,000 established firms in Britain today. The same number and more comprise nationalities of African, Caribbean, Chinese and South Asian background. Firms consist of diverse sectors such as food and hospitality, technology, construction, engineering, education and training, personal care, manufacturing, healthcare, transport and logistics. They’re spread across the UK involving English Regions; viz., London, the Midlands and Home Counties (DueDil Report 2015). Over the past 40 years, ‘Commonwealth Day’ celebrations have negligibly captured themes on the inestimable contribution of migrants to the British economy and the broader Commonwealth group of nations. It is rather surprising that British young people for instance, know little about the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP). This initiative is aimed at encouraging and promoting youth development including aspects of entrepreneurship, yet even local authorities are unaware of the significance of this tranche of international funding. Much of CYP’s work is familiar to ‘developing countries’ although like Australia, Canada, New Zealand and other Commonwealth states, Britain contributes to this fund. So why, aren’t authorities here, promoting the utility of CYP to resource essential children and young people’s service-activities? Each year, ‘Refugee Week’ focuses largely, on the plight of refugees and the state-sponsored help given to them, rather than their direct input to local economic development. Much of their stories are unknown to the wider public since theirs are part of the ‘cherry-picking’ media scenario. In terms of ‘Enterprise Week’, activities also tend to centre on government flagship pro-

w a r d - w i n n i n g journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

grammes. Information on the number of migrant firms, by sector, ethnicity, faith-based, gender, age, regional locality and start-up or lifecycle phases, are ‘noticeably absent’. Even when high-profile conferences are organised to publicise the work of minority ethnic firms, information and data ‘sets’ are often patchy and unclear. The lack of effective ‘ethnic monitoring’ since 2010, has created a ‘porous’ effect on the organisation and performance of migrant SMEs particularly in inner-cities across the 9 English Regions. Such an ‘excellence model’ is urgent, to stem the levels of underperformance in this vital segment of the economy. There is also large-scale underreporting of enterprise formation rates amongst ethnic women and young people in general. This is symptomatic of a wider problem where anecdotally, reports speak of increasing paucity in the resource capability and resource capacity within institutional arrangements to support minority firm-start-ups. Arguably, celebrating migrant entrepreneurship should not be limited to annual prestigious events, rather, efforts must be made to reconcile the presence of migrants with their tangibility to British society. These citizens affect consumption spending and other lifestyle patterns whilst contributing £billions to wealth creation activities. In short, their ‘sweat equity’ serves a dual, if not multiple purpose. When we factor in migrants contribution to education and training – ranging from 50% to 92% upwards in higher and further education accordingly, this represents more than just a ‘divisible item’ of economic return. It is a cumulative sum of ideas being converted into saleable products and services beneficial to migrant communities and the host society in general. So, the next time we organise yearly auspicious events such as ‘Women’s International Day’ ‘Commonwealth Day’ ‘Refugee Week’, World Health Day’, ‘United Nations Day’ and or ‘Enterprise Week’ for that matter, let’s integrate migrants’ contributory perspective to British economic history. It’s possibly the ‘least’ we can do for those who have been ‘huddled with us’ since time immemorial.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 9

Why Businesses Should Invest in Jamaica

he eyes of the world are fixed on Jamaica for more than its appealing natural beauty and captivating culture. Global investor interest is high arising from the current efforts of the Government of Jamaica to position the island as the next global logistics hub, a move that has won the support of the local Private Sector of indigenous and multinational players. The goal is to transform the Jamaican business landscape to accommodate more international players seeking to locate their operations to a pro-business destination that offers a strong competitive advantage through unique raw material inputs, strategic market access and lower operational costs. An added advantage is Jamaica's extraordinary track record and experience in accommodating large-scale global investments, primarily through JAMPRO, highly regarded as a leading investment promotion agency (IPA) in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region.

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Jamaica H.C. Shines Light on Bristol Expo

lthough it’s not the first of its type in the city, the Bristol Expo proved its unique position as it targeted small to

Council Shock After Zaffar Resignation

medium predominantly African-Caribbean owned businesses as well as those that provide support services to them. An exposition offering exposure and networking to businesses that are underrepresented and underexposed, both in the city and nationally, Bristol Expo 2017 saw the first ever Afro-Caribbean Small Business Expo to take place in the city with the inaugural event, at the Trinity Hall, welcoming over 1000 guests. A good value for money exposure, the event, opened by the city’s Lord Mayor, the Jamaican Consulate and Cllr Jeff Lovell, the expo was one that put Bristol in the limelight, offering the ideal platform to businesses that are underrepresented and underexposed, both in the city and nationally. Newly appointed Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK, Seth

George Ramocan, was present as a special guest, at what proved to be a successful Afro-Caribbean small business expo, as he continued his remit –a nationwide tour to meet and greeting fellow nationals and the wider Jamaican Diaspora in and around Britain. High Commissioner Ramocan was then on hand to, along with Bristol Mayor, Marvin Rees, then close Bristol Expo 2017. Also in attendance was Paul Harrison of PK Media and the Zierlich International Dialysis Centre, promoting the benefits of the centre to the HC and everyone who attended.

ollowing his much published intervention on the issue of a pupil at local primary school being prohibited from wearing an Islamic hijab headscarf, Birmingham City Council’s Councillor Waseem Zaffar has resigned from his post. The resignation of Cllr Zaffar, Labour councillor for Lozells and East Handsworth, shortly after the news of the departure of Council chief executive, Mark Rogers. The resignation by Waseem Zaffar follows the intervention of Dame Louise Casey, the Government’s ‘Integration Tsar,’ following the school uniform row. She wrote to City Council leader Cllr Clancy about the behaviour of his cabinet member for transparency, openness and equality. The pupil, at St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, turned out to be a relative of Cllr Zaffar, who, on his original Facebook intervention, did not make it publicly clear that the pupil was a relative, although he says he informed the school of the link.

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Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

WEST MIDLANDS MAYORAL ELECTION - ANDY STREET

Andy sets out his vision for the West Midlands The former John Lewis MD speaks to The Phoenix Newspaper following the launch of his Renewal Plan for the West Midlands. Continued from Front Page

Mr Street was clear that to sort out the issue of youth unemployment, there needs to be an answer to the problem. Mr Street suggested that the answer lies in schemes such as apprenticeships, used at John Lewis, and digital bootcamps to help young people become more technologically adept. He also suggested assigning a coach for each young person within the West Midlands to help get them back on their feet and into the world of work. When asked about the effectiveness of these schemes, Mr Street sited studies that suggested that due to these schemes, youth unemployment had fallen by fifty percent over the past four years’. He also stated that twenty thousand young people found work in Walsall and other places within the West Midlands through the coach scheme. The coach scheme is one that has received great support from the government and is to receive more funding. The green belt is an issue that has begun to dominate the national conversation, with the growing housing shortage. Mr Street has voiced a desire to build twenty-five thousand new houses in the next three years if elected. He said he was aware that some green belt will need to be built on, but if pos-

sible he would like to build on the less controversial brownfields. Mr Street was clear that he has plans for addressing both youth unemployment and the green belt, and that he hoped that if elected as mayor he could bring the community in the West Midlands together, for the betterment of the region. Mr Street acknowledged that he shared one similarity with US President Donald Trump, in that neither of them are career politicians and both have backgrounds in business. However, Mr Street was clear that whilst Trump ran his campaign on division, he has tried to run his campaign as one of unity and inclusiveness. Earlier in the month, communities came together as approximately 400 people filled the BECC, the guest speaker for the evening, the Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP joined Andy to back the man with the business and leadership experience that the region will need to push itself forward under the new combined authority. Hosted by the inimitable Raaj Shamji, Asian Toastmaster and MC, the amassed peoples heard from influential figures in the community, and from the guest speaker himself, the Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP. “What the West Midlands needs is

someone with many different characteristics, someone who was born locally, raised locally, educated locally, someone who understands business, perhaps even someone who has worked in a business, even one of the most successful businesses this country has ever seen, with a track record of delivering, and someone who cares about people across the country and especially the West Midlands” beamed Javid. “That man is Andy Street.” With an passionate speech by Tony Wouhra MBE, calling on everyone to do their bit to support Andy Street, the support from the BME communities, and especially the Chinese community was evident on a night that saw them turn out en masse in support of the former John Lewis man “I am a proud Brummie, I grew up here,” explained Andy, “but about 5 years ago I came back when the Local Enterprise Partnerships were formed. “I thought maybe I could do something about the state that the region found itself in. The most recent figures showed that Greater Birmingham and Solihull were at the top, with growth of 5% and 7% respectively.” “With just 9 weeks to go, I really do believe that we are going to win this election.” With generous donations of raffle and

auction prizes by Sir Doug Ellis, Mr Wing Yip OBE, Mr Lam Kin Bong, Mrs Dorian Chan, Ying Wah Travel and more, the night was all about raising the profile of their preferred West Midlands Mayor candidate, as well as raising funds for the campaign. With bottles of champagne, vouchers for Wing Wah and Wing Yip, and a signed Aston Villa Football up for grabs amongst others, the biggest success of the night had to be that of a bottle of Remy Martin Grande Champagne Cognac Louis XIII, courtesy of Mr Wing Yip OBE and introduced for the auction by César Lesne of Remy Cointreau UK, which found a new home for the small price of £3,800.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 11

WEST MIDLANDS MAYORAL ELECTION - ANDY STREET

West Midlands MEP gives her vote to Andy Street

by Vivek Rajkhowa

n t h e a McIntyre, The West Midlands Member of The European Parliament (MEP) has voiced strong support for both the Mayoral election and for Andy Street, the Conservative candidate for mayor. Ms McIntyre stated that she believed the mayoral election to be a very important election for the people of the West Midlands. This is because she felt it would “raise the profile of the combined authority and give it more of a chance to truly make the changes needed to raise the quality of the West Midlands.” When asked who, she was supporting for Mayor, Ms McIntyre stated. “I am

supporting Andy Street for Mayor. As I believe that he has a wealth of business experience, both at John Lewis and as the Chairman of Greater Birmingham and Solihull Enterprise Partnership. Which will serve the community well as we leave the EU. Furthermore, he has been very active in travelling to different countries such as Pakistan and India, to get investment for the West Midlands.” Ms McIntyre also stated that she was supporting Mr Street for Mayor as he had run an. “Inclusive and local campaign, that had drawn support from all the different communities within the West Midlands.” Ms McIntyre also stated

CEO of MDTL backs Andy Street for Mayor

by Vivek Rajkhowa

that she believed the key issues that the mayor would need to address for the West Midlands would be: “Improving local infrastructure and getting investment for the community within the West Midlands to help growth and to get trade to spread across the world.”

artin Levermore is the Chief Executive of Medical Devices Technology Limited and Chair of the Trade & Business group of the Birmingham Commonwealth Association, and has a lot of experience in business. Interviewed by Phoenix Newspaper, he had this to say about the elections for West Midlands Mayor. “I think it is a great idea, because for too long Whitehall has dictated the terms to the people of the West Midlands over what they can and can’t do. “This has resulted in the area stagnating as policies are imple-

mented by people who do not know the region as well as they should do. “The election gives the people of the West Midlands the chance to elect someone who has lived and worked in the area, and knows what issues there are facing the people here. “The mayor would then have the power to sort these issues out and provide a new style of leadership and focus to the area.” Mr Levermore voiced strong support for Andy Street as West Midlands Mayor stating. “Andy Street understands business, having worked for John Lewis and having been involved with other business ventures as well.

“He is a successful businessman, not a career politician, who hails from the West Midlands and knows exactly what the issues facing the area are. “He has the focus and the drive to bring structural change to the area, by helping improve the infrastructure in the West Midlands, and by developing schemes that would develop the skills of people within the area. “He has the skills and contacts to promote the region successfully.”

Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT - PROMOTING EXCELLENCE

g n i t o Prom xcellence BCU Student E Artwork Marks Curzon Street Revival 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.

Award-Winning Film Star Backs Alumni Network Campaign

ormer state students helped transform current students’ confidence, motivation and skills when they went back to their old schools in a campaign to build an alumni network in every school and college in their home city. ‘Back to School Week,’ run by national education charity Future First took place in schools across Birmingham which is identified by the government as a ‘cold spot’ for careers support. Future First research shows alumni are crucial in inspiring current state students to greater career confidence and success in the world of work by acting as positive role models, providing connections to the world of work, volunteering as mentors or governors or even helping to raise funds. Events during the campaign week include: 10 alumni return to Kings Norton Girls School in Selly Oak, a workshop for 30 Year 9 students considering career pathways and deconstructing career stereotypes.

Alumni careers include forensics, marketing, business management, health, the fire service and computer animation. The former students returned to Ark St Albans Academy, for a workshop for 20 Year 8 students to build motivation and analyse their skills and strengths. Alumni careers include history, law, medicine, art and design, and charity work. At Holyhead School, in Handsworth, alumnus did a workshop with 25 Year 12 students on building motivation with alumni fields including law and history. The campaign week aimed to encourage more schools to see alumni as a valuable resource in broadening the jobs horizons of the current generation and preparing them to navigate the difficult transition from school to work. Private schools and universities have long seen the value of keeping alumni engaged. Future First’s ‘Back to School Week’ campaign was backed by award-winning actress and

star of classic film ‘Educating Rita’ Julie Walters, who went to school in Birmingham and starred in the 1983 film which looked at social mobility. Julie said “Taking alumni back to support current state school students, whatever field they want to enter, is a fantastic idea. The world of work is a difficult place and the more support teenagers have in navigating the move from school to work and broadening their jobs horizons, the better. I wish there had been something like Future First when I was at school. I’d urge everyone to sign up to support their former state school." Future First’s Executive Chair, Christine Gilbert, said: “Every state school student should have the opportunity to succeed in life after school, regardless of their background. If students see ‘people like me’ have succeeded, they are more likely to believe they can too.” Future First is currently working with over 400 state schools and colleges up and down the country to set up ‘old school tie’ networks and harness the wealth of talent and experience of former students in a range of careers, from law and banking to plumbing and catering. More than 180,000 former students nationwide are registered to support current students at their old school.

Birmingham City University Visual Communications student beat off stiff competition to be crowned winner of an art competition marking the arrival of High Speed rail in the city. Sarina Kaur’s design is now on display between the Roman-inspired columns of the former Curzon Street station entrance, in the second city, giving the world's oldest surviving piece of monumental railway architecture a modern makeover. Her original artwork was praised by the design panel, headed up by Sarah Weir OBE – former executive director of the Arts Council, for its ‘thoughtful combination of graphic and artistic style which references both the beginning and end of Curzon Street's previous incarnation as a working railway station.’ It comes as the Government an-

nounced that Royal Assent had been granted for the new High Speed Two (HS2) railway, paving the way for construction of the Phase One line of route between Birmingham Curzon Street and London Euston to begin. HS2 Ltd joined forces with the University in a bid to find a talented artist whose winning design would be reproduced as a centrepiece to celebrate Curzon Street’s important railway heritage and exciting future. Sarina said: “I never expected to win, but I am delighted to have done so. The inspiration behind my design has taken influence by the illustrator and art director Kate Moross. “Using a serif font and reforming the elements of a steam locomotive to represent the 19th century, I have merged elements of both traditional and modern styles, allowing audi-

ences to understand how art has been influenced over the years.” The winning design has been reproduced on to two 8.3 x 4.3 metre banners and is on display on the exterior of the former Grade 1 listed Curzon Street station building, the oldest railway terminus in the world.

group of students were praised for their wise words – after a local politician spent the afternoon at the

l Staff and pupils at with Jack Dromey MP at Stockland Green School

Students Share Wisdom with MP During School Visit

academy. The articulate pupils from the Stockland Green School, in Birmingham, were commended by Jack Dromey, Labour MP for Erdington, who kept his promise – after he previously met the young people in Westminster - to visit the school to talk in greater depth about the issues affecting the students’ lives. During a politically charged question and answer session, the students and MP discussed a number of topical and relevant issues including: mental health in young people, the voting age, refugees, education funding and anti-bullying. Dromey said: “I was impressed when I met these students for the first time. Now, after talking to them at length in their school, I am even more inspired by their level of understanding. “It was wonderful to have the opportunity to discuss their concerns and listen to their suggestions as to how we can improve the lives of those around us.” The young people – who ranged from year 7 to 11– included Lauren Bull (year 11), who sits on the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership’s (ATLP) student leadership team. She asked about education funding and disadvantaged areas, while Jack Dromey spoke about the importance of bringing richly diverse communities – such as Stockland Green – together.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 13

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT - PROMOTING EXCELLENCE

Do you know your History?- Part 4 by Kesa Nkulu

Messenger and Prophets from Kongo Dia Ntotela to the present day.

As the Right Honourable Marcus Garvey taught us `A Race without knowledge of its History, is like a tree without Roots`. Here is the link between the old Kingdom to the present day. But first I cannot tell you about Ne Muanda Nsemi if I don’t tell you about Mfumu Kimbangu, and I can’t tell you about Mfumu Kimbangu if I don’t tell you about Yaya Vita Kimpa, so here we go…

Yaya Vita Kimpa

l Sarina Kaur with her winning design proudly displayed outside the Curzon Street Station Entrance The Curzon Street design competition was supported by the University’s Graduate+ initiative, which looks to identify and develop students’ experience and build on

West Midland school had double cause for celebration after getting positive ‘tick’ marks from Ofsted inspectors. Villiers Primary, in Bilston, was rated ‘Good’ whilst its Early Years provision was given an ‘Outstanding’ rating two years after its previous inspection which found it requiring improvement. Thanks to the hard work of teachers, pupils, governors and parents, Ofsted said the popular school, on Prouds Lane, has made rapid progress since 2015. Following the inspection, in February, in his report, Lead Inspector Steve Nelson said acting headteacher Lisa Maskell and the leadership team had brought about "significant improvements in pupils' outcomes and the quality of teaching" at the school. Leaders and governors have taken "effective action to ensure the school is improving", and have a "clear understanding" of what the school does well and where further progress needs to be made. Good teaching, and the positive learning behaviour of Villiers' pupils, has led to "outcomes rising rapidly, especially in reading, writing and mathematics". A vibrant curriculum gives pupils a wide range of experiences and opportunities which is helping to raise aspirations.

their skills, enhancing and supporting their employment options when they leave university. BCU Graduate+ Programme Manager, Lesley Taylor, said: “We

were blown away by the quality and quantity of work we received in this competition. Although many entries came from students in our Faculty of Arts, Design and Media,

we were delighted to see incredible pieces from those studying building surveying, nursing and radiography, for example.”

West Midlands Primary School Receives ‘Good’ Ofsted Rating

One of the most famous female Nationalists, venerated by the Bakongo people was Yaya Vita kimpa. She was born in 1685 when the country was the Kingdom of Kongo Dia Ntotela. There was a war between the kingdom and Portuguese. In 1702 a woman called Mama Mafuta, taught the people of Kongo Dia Ntotela to unite and stop the war between themselves and return to their God Tata Nzambi Mpungu. The young Vita Kimpa aged just 17, was one of the people who used to attend the teachings of Mama Mafuta and was divinely inspired to continue her work. The news soon reached the Catholic Priests, who were against the emergence of the teachings of Bukongo, so they ordered a total ban of these meetings. Yaya Vita Kimpa also spoke of the era to come when a great Messenger would pave the way for total independence.(Mfumu Kimbangu) Yaya Vita Kimpa was put to death as a result of this, and her family were exiled to Haiti as punishment. She was burned alive on the 2/07/1706. Mama Vita Kimpa was a ‘Great messenger of God Ne Mpungu’ for the family of our people.

Mfumu Kimbangu

l Staff and pupils at Villiers Primary School celebrate their Good Ofsted rating Early Years’ Outstanding provision is ensuring the youngest children "make very rapid and sustained progress" and that they are "well placed to succeed when they join Year 1. "Highly effective" teaching of

phonics is also ensuring younger pupils make rapid gains in their reading. Mrs Maskell said: “We are overjoyed with our Ofsted report. The children, governors and staff have worked tirelessly to make the learn-

ing in our wonderful school better and better every day. Our school motto is ‘Work hard. Be kind.’ It is a privilege to work with such a talented and dedicated staff and children who embody these values.”

Kimbangu was born in 1887 and was a Messenger and Prophet, combatting the injustices suffered by Black People at the hands of the colonialists in the homeland and the Diaspora. Kimbangu had 3 parts to his mission, on hearing about Marcus Garvey’s worldwide vision, his gift began to manifest. He healed the sick and began to give the people the teachings of the ‘Bukongo’, the Solar spiritual tradition and taught of Tata Nzambi Mpungu Tulendo just as Yaya Vita Kimpa did. Like his predecessors, Kimbangu fought to maintain Ancestral ways. Colonialist had no respect for African people, and Kimbangu`s presence threatened them. In 1921, just before Kimbangu handed himself in to the authorities, to begin a 30 year

jail sentence (to avoid the colonialists slaughtering more of the people), he stood before a crowd of thousands and prophesised: - African Independence. - Freedom of Black People all over the world - The coming of a New Instructor who will write a secret sacred book (Ne Muanda Nsemi). - Kimbangu also prophesized of the Diaspora returning to the Homeland. After delivering his speech, Papa Kimbangu handed himself into the Belgium authorities, who colonized Kongo at that time, and began a 30 year jail sentence. He died in prison in 1951.

Ne Muanda Nsemi

In 1986 , he began his public mission with the official launching of the BUNDU DIA KONGO. In 1989, Ne Muanda Nsemi, in his capacity as Spiritual Instructor, decided to write a Holy Book entitled Makongo(as prophesized by Mfumu Kimbangu). At a public lecture on 30 August 1992, Ne Muanda Nsemi presented the Makongo to the Ambassadors of the African countries accredited to Kinshasa.

Currently in Congo

The mandate of Hyppolite Kanambe alias Joseph Kabila terminated at midnight on 19th December 2016. However he refuses to relinquish power after a disastrous 16 year dictatorship and to add to his time in office, the slaughter of tens of thousands of un-armed civilians. Ne Muanda Nsemi a member of parliament has demanded that this tyrant must leave office. However, the corrupt regime supported by his European allies has created obstacles to a fair and independent election. Kabila has recently suggested that he will be President until 2030. The previous Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki Moon received notification that the Bakongo people want to reclaim their ancestral land from DR Congo. This will signify the emergence of the rebuilding of Kongo Dia Ntotela. Recently, Ne Muanda Nsemi gave himself in to authorities (just like Mfumu Kimbangu) after the armed security services tried on several occasions to storm his private residence. During the battle the Police and Soldiers used deadly force against un-armed civilians. There has been protest in Congo, Belgium, France, England and the Caribbean in support of Ne Muanda Nsemi, calling for his immediate release. This reminds me of the a few lines from a Bob Marley song… ’How long will they kill our prophets, while we stand aside and look’…

Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

Celebrating the Life of Henry Ramsey

Gone But No

by Steve Williams

he ‘Home-going Service’ for the life of Henry Ramsey proved everything that represented a true ‘Man of the People’ as a packed New Testament Church of God fully represented all he stood for – and more. With an incredibly wide section of the Borough of Dudley, in the West Midlands, turning out to pay their homage to ‘one of their own,’ a solemn and emotional affair turned out to be a celebration

Eulogy by Paul Ramsey

Good afternoon everyone. First and foremost may I take this opportunity to thank my family, my in laws, my cousins, my Pastors, the elders, the New Testament Church of God, friends and friends of friends of the family for their overwhelming support shown and given to my belated Father since he has passed away. Dad was a formidable figure and character around Dudley. He was an

original ‘Yam-Yam Jamaican’ who was known by many people having been around for many of his 60 years in his adopted town of Dudley. He showed love and respect to people of all nationalities, races and religions. The room here today, reflects just that. We have heard many tributes today about his character, and his love of the common people, I will try my very best to summarise what has

already been said, and to build a picture of my late father, of how I saw and will remember him. Dad was from a family of 11 siblings, he came to England in 1959 from Jamaica after leaving his family bakery business. This is where he met my mother, Ruby, and they married in 1960 a year later. They both came from the same parish of St Elizabeth, in the sunny seaside part of Jamaica. It is fair to say that Dad had a poor education through no fault of his own, but back then work started as soon as you could physically walk. Although pretty much illiterate, and I say that with no shame, he never struggled to read the back pages of the newspaper to place a bet on the horses. Dad was a strong physical man

of man who represented just about every man, woman and child who had their hometown at heart. There wasn’t a spare seat available in the two-tier building as Official Minister, Overseer Powell, set the seeds for what was a ‘celebration of life.’ “There is a sadness that leaves,” he said, “but you, God, are welcoming one of yours – to keep him, sustain him and worship him.” With the emotional undertones set, a long line of family members, friends

and using his God-given abilities, his strength, hit wit and his humour, he used those to get through his struggles. He had this ‘never say never’ work ethic, that I have witnessed from no other, he was actually unstoppable. Many of you know him for walking everywhere he went, he loved to walk. He was given a free bus pass at the age of 65 which he refused to use for many years. On many of his walks he would find things, like old bike frames, and saddle, and plastic birds and porcelain ducks, and he would take things back home. He had this habit of collecting things and leaving them in his back garden hoping one day they would become antiques or be worth something, or he could do something with

and associates lined up to say their piece about a man who had time and love for just about everybody he touched – leaving a legacy, though tangible in the extreme, would prove very difficult to match. A proud and upstanding ‘son’ of Jamaica, Henry’s life was always full. Never afraid to work – and never afraid to share, his life, despite misgivings in his early years in the UK, his overwhelming, upstanding views was a template to follow. “Henry never said ‘no’ to anyone,” said

them but he never did. The garden became overrun with these things, resembling something from the Steptoe and Son TV program from back in the day. That said, when it did all pile up, he would collect all the scrap together, I’d get a phone call and he’d chuck them in the boot of my car saying ‘Lets take these down to the scrap yard and weigh them in.’ This was including all the copper wire that he would pull out of the houses he’d been working on, and many times he’d go to the scrapyard, weigh them in and get £300 cash. We’d go back home, he’d put £200 on the table and said to Mum, “There you go, after all that moaning you’ve given me, there is money for nothing.” The remaining £100, in true father

and son style, he’d split it 50/50 with me. That’s my confession today Mum, he did get a lot more than you were led to believe! I grew up as a young boy often hearing in the household “Work hard, or if you want to do good, your nose has to run.” Naturally that stuck with me and at the ripe old age of 10, after lying about my age because you needed to be 12, I got a paper round, and I have not been unemployed since the age of 10, and I’m now 50, well, 50 something. My success in life to date I can attribute to Dad and his work ethic, and also the encouragement by Mum to do well. Back in the day Dad would always have 2 jobs. He had a job at Simon Engineering where they would build these lad-

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 15

Celebrating the Life of Henry Ramsey

ot Forgotten

one deeply emotional speaker. “As an Asian-born couple, coming from Kenya, he made us welcomed at all times and was always willing to help whenever it was in need. He and my late husband were like ‘brothers.’ On hearing of his passing, my son, Malkit, simply said; ‘He’s gone for a drink with dad now.’ He was a vital member of our community.” “He’s taken out his life insurance with God,” said Overseer Powell. “No 3rd Party – His policy was Fully Compre-

ders on the back of fire engines as an engineer, and also a second job on a nighttime at a local bakery at the top of Black Acre Road, Champion bakery. He started that job at 10pm until 6am in the morning and would then start his engineering job a few hours later. He did that for many years until the actual bakery closed down. After that he found another second job working with his Asian friends who were buying lots of properties in the area to let them out. He would go in and prepare them to be rewired and replumbed. He did this for many years and built up quite a reputation within the local Asian community. Speak to any of his work mates here today and they will tell you of the work ethic in this man. Dad wouldn’t

hensive with Christ.” Henry’s nephew, Marcus, followed simply by saying; “My Uncle is ‘going home’ in style.” But it was son, Paul, who really summed it up; “Dad had ‘God-given’ abilities,” he said. “Always a worker from a young age, that’s one of the most precious values he instilled in me. A multi-McDonalds franchisee, he went on; “He always said to us (his children) ‘Yu nose ha’ fe run.’ With that I’ve always worked – since school.

see anyone let down, despite the earbashing he would get from Mum, he would always get up and go out to help them. He gave it his all. Not putting a price on his skills or efforts, his out of hour call outs or hard labour, but just doing it for the love of the community and people just like him trying to better their lives. Despite his poor education, he was a politician. He was a football pundit, a scientist, a historian, and he knew his Bible inside out. He was a master builder, despite it being Jamaican style building, and he had an opinion on everything. It’s just as well he went before Donald Trump really made his mark on the world. He loved his wildlife programs, spending many hours watching chimpanzees messing around in the trees

His work-ethic was second to none – as was his love of people, which is just two of his traits that I like to think I’m contusing. A ‘scientist,’ ‘politician,’ ‘theologies,’ ‘pundit,’ ‘master-builder,’ ‘MP,’ and general all-round great dad - it’s a privilege to carry on his name.” Henry Ramsey; a husband (to Ruby), a father, grandfather and friend to all he met – was 81.

having a good laugh at them, and he also loved watching Songs of Praise on a Sunday, but his favourite program was News at 10. Sitting at home with my 2 sisters watching TV, and Dad would come in from work and straight away say “Put on the news, I want to watch the news.” He’d flick it over, and then proceed to talk all the way through it, you couldn’t hear a word that Trevor McDonald was saying. He was a Dudley legend. Back in the early 1960’s, he and his friend fought off the racist Teddy Boys of Dudley, this was known as the Dudley Race Riots. These guys would go around terrorising many of the early Jamaican settlers here at the time. His first house on Vicar Street was

attacked and the windows smashed by these individuals who only envied the presence of the Jamaican men in the town. Dad was a lion, and he had a lioness and his cubs to protect, and he did that in true Malcolm X style, by any means necessary. I’ll say no more, but the Teddy Boys never called again. He had a big house at Vicar Street, and he rented the rooms out to Jamaican families, one family per room, and these were to many of his friends from Jamaican who came after he got here. He would do this just to help them out to help them to save up for their own properties and also just for the love of his own common people. His Christian beliefs took him back to join the Church, with Mum in the mid 1990’s. After years of coasting

along he found Jesus was missing from his life and he got baptised. Unfortunately over the past few years due to ill health, and the deterioration of his mobility, he missed out on a lot of his Church going on a Sunday morning, but it didn’t stop his belief. As you’ve heard from many here today, Dad had a weird dry sense of humour, which was unique to him only. You’d often find yourself laughing at him, and not at one of his corny jokes he had just told. Trust me he is probably lying there now with a big grin on his face. As he would often say at the end of the night, following the News at 10, “I’m going to bed. Do you know why? Because the bed isn’t coming to me!” I’m looking down on him now and

thinking to myself, Jesus got the last laugh on you Dad, and stopped you going to bed, and although the bed never came to you, Jesus did. Your borrowed time is up on this Earth with us but it is about to begin again with our Creator. As you always reminded me when we were growing up, we are all living on God’s borrowed time, and that can be collected at short notice or sometimes even no notice at all. It’s a priviledge for me to carry the family name in your name, God bless you. You were a true die hard. A legend not just to your family and friends, and not forgetting the common people of society that you did so much to help. We will all miss you dad, God Bless you, may you rest in Eternal Peace.

Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

Lighten Someone Else’s Dark Sky M

lity a u q High om r f e ld car o d s l i r h a c ye e v i f th to

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arina Nani is Founder of the Academy of Significance™, Radio W.O.R.K.S. World and The Hotel Alternative. The author of the best-selling Away From Home and The Simple Truth book series is a phenomenal woman. Marina was born in Romania and she has three children. Marina firmly believes that each one of us can make a significant difference in other people’s lives. Digging into what Marina stands for she says: “While others see me as an accomplished writer, I see myself as the Good News Channel, the ‘Why Not?’ person who helps you deliver your unique gift, that could make your life a better place. “From where I stand, the only story that matters is the story you tell yourself when nobody is listening and unless you embrace your truth and endorse your own Vision, nobody could benefit from your Inner Greatness, from your uniqueness you were gifted at birth.” She goes on to say “I do not teach anything you don’t know already, I share your story, wherever you are in the world. “I am intrigued by who you are and not by what you do. I interview people daily, we have great conversations. “While I learned to listen to your un-told story, I become the map maker, the cartographer, who understands really well the struggles you are facing when publishing your book and what doors you need to open next, what is possible when you become your own spokesperson.” Without a pause Marina shares: “I believe that the secret of living your purpose is sharing the good

news: You! “Make the news, step into the spotlight and lighten somebody else’s dark sky! “The only dreams coming true are the great dreams you dream awake. I am here, right now, to deliver the message for you. “You hold the unique talent that the world is waiting on! Your strength could only come from within, from your resilience, your patience, your passion, the winning algorithm while reaching for the stars to change the world for the greater good!” Marina never planned to do any of the things she is doing now, or be who she is; it wasn’t the experience but her desire to help others feel worthy, understand their inner beauty, what brought them where they are, their unique truth. She explains; “In many ways, I am just a child amazed by the wonders of our world, I don’t really care where I am going, I just follow my heart. “I am nothing but a vessel of Light, and my journey is part of a divine plan.” Marina’s only priority is delivering her vision. “I consider that my purpose is my responsibility and I feel this urgency to re-unite people with their own worth. “Relationship capital starts with yourself, and I don’t like to go out and meet new people for coffee. “I drink coffee by myself. I focus on what needs to be the next small step towards the big dream. “Dreams are not worth dreaming if they are not big enough to serve your community. There are many things that Marina is grateful for in her life; “I am grateful beyond words: my children, grand children, living in a beautiful country, with extraordinary leaders in extraordinary times.”

“Creating Radio W.O.R.K.S. WORLD - interviews and broadcasting series worldwide is my contribution, paying forward. “At present we are developing few exciting projects, which I could never envisage few years ago: Make The News- Red Carpet and Gala Events Series, The Quantum of Light- Glossy Magazine for Authors and Authors-to-be, and SovereignMagazine for Heart Centred Entrepreneurs.” Everything that happened in her life has brought her to be where she is at and it doesn’t make sense to skip anything. “There is no lift to success, you take the stairs. I wish I told my mother how much I loved her. I learned that you don’t need a reason to tell others: I LOVE YOU!” Marina believes in turning challenges into opportunities, rejection into love, solitude into greatness. The new generation is important to Marina, as she explains; “Each young person is a star child. We borrow the time from our children. “The planet is not ours to take with us but to leave it behind as a better place. “Helping them to grow confident, discover and understand their worth from an early stage in their life, becoming aware of their unique talent, feeling abundant and kind, are empowering tools for a healthy society. What is Marina’s advice to someone wishing to start out? “Open the doors to your own heart. Those doors never close again! The most important story you will ever hear, is not the story you want others to hear but the story you tell yourself, about yourself, when nobody is listening. “Don’t let other people tell you who you are. You tell them.”

Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 17

20 YEARS AS THE EYE OF ENTERTAINMENT

APRIL 2017

www.streetcredmagazine.com

ALL EYEZ ON ME

As the world gets ready for the release in june, we take a look at the man behind the moVie

Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

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It’s time to ‘Show What U Got’

by Steve Williams

WUG is the word as singer/songwriter/ magazine founder/editor/promoter/dj/producer Mark Dwayne’s latest single; ‘Show What U Got’ is already proving a massive hit with its play on social media portholes and YouTube channel. It’s been a while since his album ‘Hustler’ created instant hits like ‘In Love Again,’ ‘Barber Shop’ and ‘Get Down,’ but his new fresh, uplifting banger is a reminder – to the ol’ skool – of what they’ve been missing for so long, whilst opening the doors to a new era of fans who, instantly, have fallen for ‘one of their own’ whose dulcet, always meaningful lyrical tones have touched the hearts a n d

minds of people of all ages, generations, genres and cultures. For multi-talented Birmingham-born Dwayne, Founder/ Managing Editor of award-winning lifestyle and entertainment magazine, Street Cred, it’s been a journey of ‘discovery’ as his life-long determination for success as a solo singing entity is now bearing fruit – on a personal level as the catchy single marks a ‘comeback’ for one of the city’s all-round favourite sons. Immensely proud of his hometown, for the always affable MDG, ‘This Is The Time’ to Show What HE’S Got...in no uncertain way. He’s been singing since the age of five, sampling, covering and appearing as legends like the late Michael Jackson, who he covered alongside Peter Andre at the Clothes Show at Birmingham’s NEC in support of the British Heart Foundation back in 2001 when Michael came out with ‘Rock My World’. All in his quest for that ultimate ‘goal’ of becoming a succesful singer/songwriter in an industry that has been his raison d'etre for so long. But, as is his effervescent ‘always-giving’ nature, Street Cred took

over his life as he put his own singing career on hold as he pursued his ‘job,’ his ‘responsibility’ to uplift those around him and give his fellow-Brummies their deserved platform to shine – as it was always felt that the city was ignored by major labels – both home and abroad. Mark also collaborated with Pato Banton and Phoebe One, on ‘The Real Moneymaker’ with the latter. But it wasn’t just Birmingham based artists that used the platform, as it was national and international artists such as Destiny’s Child who he brought to Lozells Road, Beenie Man, Jessie J, Buju Banton, Joe, Usher, P Diddy, Jermaine Dupri, Teddy Riley, Missy Elliott, Shola Ama, Richard Blackwood, Trevor Nelson, Damage and many more who graced the front cover of the Street Cred Magazine. After twenty dedicated years of serving Birmingham’s untapped talent, “It’s time for me to show what I’ve got,” he says. ‘Show What U Got?’ He’s been doing it for years, with his tracks getting prime-time, regular play on the likes of Radio 1 Xtra, where he got record of the week twice on Dream Teams Sunday Show by Timmy Magic and DJ Spoony, and appearing on Ministry of Sound album listings to great response. His mum, Marcia McLaughlin - herself a multi-awarding winning Founder/Managing Editor of The Enterprise Newspaper and, for seven years, The Phoenix Newspaper, is an ever-present inspiration and guiding light in his life. Mark would like to thank Simon Cowell for the work that he has done to put talent on the map and for recognising him as the ‘R Kelly of the UK’, Gordy Pix for being one of the most supportive friends that he has ever had, and Paul Kennedy for believing in him, and giving him a great insight into the industry and the future of it. Now Mark Dwayne is on a platform of his own as he can, himself, now expose his own, personal life experiences and overwhelmingly natural talent to the masses as he creates his own Birmingham-led ‘#SWUG’ movement to show the world what his city’s got, and to pass on the legacy of Street Cred Magazine to the next generation.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 19

www.streetcredmagazine.com

One Love: The Bob Marley Musical F

by Paul Ramsey

irstly I must give credit to director Kwame Kwei-Armah for this wonderful production. Growing up as a youth back in the late 70's I recall my older sister coming back home one Saturday afternoon with the Bob Marley album Rastaman Vibration. Back then Woolworths was the biggest seller of music on the High Street! How times have changed, which leads me on to discuss the chosen venue for the show - The REP Theatre. This was one of my old haunts growing up as a teenager. The REP bar was a trendy bar a little ahead of its time in comparison to many Birmingham bars back then. Wow a Bob Marley musical at this prestigious Birmingham location, how times have progressed since the early eighties when anyone sporting dreadlocks would seem out of place around this particular area of Broad Street let alone inside The Rep. As I entered the building the foyer was busy with people of all nationalities which represented the great legend himself. Robert Nesta Marley had a magical appeal that reached out to people all over the world from every country you can think of. After collecting my tickets, the friendly staff directed me to a bar area where I could get a pre show drink. I was very impressed to see the bar well stocked with my favourite Jamaican beverages of Wray and Nephew white rum and Ting - a popular Jamaican carbonated grapefruit drink. I got my drink and made my way

to my seat which was half way into the auditorium with slightly restricted side view but not that bad as to spoil my evening. As I expected with the huge Marley playlist the show started with music from the stage band, the acoustics were impressive and confirmed the quality we were to expect for the evening. The acting was on key as an array of budding actors of all backgrounds with some of our own local talent being on stage made it even more special. Bob was played by Mitchell Brunings making his UK debut, he carried off Marley to a tee. His singing was more impressive than his attempt to master Marley's strong Jamaican patois, same can be said about the majority of the key actors. Alexia Khadime plays Rita Marley, Cat Simmons plays one of Bobs many girlfriends Cindy Breakspeare. Impressive performances by two of our own Birmingham boys Thomas Vernal who plays Claudine Massop and Delroy Brown who plays Bob's manager Don Taylor. It's fair to say I was there for the

love of the music and not the story of political mayhem and civil war that scarred the island of Jamaica in the elections and would tear the islands communities apart. The story line shows the struggles that Marley faced whilst trying to establish himself as a singer of peace, love and harmony. He was duped by Manley into performing a concert which many saw as his support for the PNP party. The consequences of performing the Smile Jamaica concert provoked a political backlash and an attempt made to take his life. This resulted in Bob fleeing the Island for England. He initially struggled to make his music be taken seriously by the British music industry as he competed with Punk Rock which was fashionable at the time. Bob had an opportunity to return back to Jamaica to stage the 'One Love' concert which would see Manley's People's National Party and Searga's Jamaican Labour Party call a truce in public orchestrated by Bob on stage. The musical had a pleth-

ora of vibrant scenes acted out with great thought to an initially skeptical crowd of people. The show features all of Marley's classics including 'No Woman No Cry’, ‘Jamming’, ‘I Shot the Sheriff’, ‘Exodus’ and finished with a grand finale which saw Mitchell Brunings slip on the stage steps whilst trying to mingle with the audience. This would have been fitting for him to sing 'One Drop' but instead he got the whole audience on its feet singing his all time classic 'One Love' supported on stage by some of the audience! I don't think the Rep Theatre has done itself any harm for staging this great performance and bringing a large section of the public into the world of theatre who may never had thought it had anything to offer them.

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

All Eyez On Me T

he legendary biopic we have all been waiting for is finally com-

ing out. We have literally waited 20 years for this and its still hearsay how he was killed in gunfire in 1996! Up to this day we can not believe and like a die hard Elvis fan would believe he is not dead! Questions not answered, stories untold; who exactly was 2Pac? Are we going to hear the truth? Who was 2Pac? What was his mission? The appeal was so broad, many say he was a thug, leader, poet, rap god, gangster, actor, or all of the above. He was everything so he was soooo hyped; there has never been such a hype for a rapper since. At only 24 he was a feared man. 2Pac created the ultimate movement. Son of panther

Afeni Shakur who is now resting in peace, could these leadership qualities have come from this background? He had the ability to relate to all walks of life although he came from a lifestyle that not many could understand. So many legendary things to talk about; how he bodied the biggest MCS at the time on one record, how many times he went to jail? He shot the police and he brought gangs together, but why was he so angry? Many would understand, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been shot by his own community, police shot him, he had his mother in prison, he was poor, this was the hungriest and angriest man in the music industry. A very interesting guy and an example of broken home, violence and much more. The positive with 2Pac is he faced all what he did and

Homeland_A6_2017 aw.pdf

came out on top..what was it all for? There has to be an answer. Word has it this film will give you the 2Pac we need to know, the loving caring husband leader with a mission to have all of black America rich. All Eyez On Me, originally titled Tupac, is an upcoming American biographical drama film directed by Benny Boom, produced by LT Hutton, David C. Robinson, James G. Robinson and written by Steven Bagatourian, Stephen J. Rivele, Christopher Wilkinson, Ed Gonzalez, and Jeremy Haft. The film stars Demetrius Shipp, Jr. (Tupac Shakur), Danai Gurira (Afeni Shakur), Kat Graham (Jada Pinkett), Dominic L. Santana (Suge Knight), Jamal Woolard (Biggie Smalls), Annie Ilonzeh (Kidada Jones), Lauren Cohan (Lelia Steinberg),

20/03/2017

SNAPPED! DJ Jay Mac hooks up with Stormzy in Bristol who came to support Birmingham hiphop star Mist.

SNAPPED! DJ Jay Mac hooks up with Stormzy in Bristol who came to support MY_A6_Birmingham aw.pdf Birmingham 1 23/03/2017 hiphop 13:28 star Mist.

18:10

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The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 21

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Good Bye and Walk Good Spicy A fter 44 years celebrated performance poet, Spicy Fingers, said ‘goodbye’ to his adoring UK fans with his ‘Walk Good Spicy’ party jam – a night that was full of entertainment, education, art, music and extreme emotions.

The Spicy Home Going Show, at the Mango Lounge, in Birmingham, provided family, friends and fans alike with what would be the last major opportunity to hear and see one of Britain’s greatest, multi-facetted artist at work – in the flesh, up close and personal. “I’m heading back home,” his

underlying mantra, the much-loved and highly appreciated Spicy was a bundle of nerves, at the outset, before he sat down, djembe drum in front of him, friends either side, and mic to the front. He was ready to say his goodbyes in the best way he knows. “Poetry has always been my way

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of communicating,” explained ace storyteller Spicy. He will return to Jamaica to help the country’s children and young people to understand the beauty of the written word. “I was always aware of the power the written word and that is what I want to pass on to youngsters in Jamaica. It’s never too late to learn.” Spicy cycled the entire length of Great Britain - from Land’s End to John O’ Groats - to raise funds in order to republish his anthology ‘Reflecting Black,’ which he distribute across the island. “I am heading back home now,” he declared, as those who know him and love him replied; Walk Good, Spicy.”

SPICY FINGERS SEND OFF

really want Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper -“IApril 2017

people to see where my influences come from - it will make me www.streetcredmagazine.com grow” TERRI WALKER

ENTERTAINMENT BFI Player “I want to show people what the culture premiere for is about, and how it blends with my music” DIZTORTION Homelands

”I want to discover more about myself and shine a light on the true origins of UK music” SHAKKA

l Terri Walker

“I’m hoping to advance as an artist and I’m excited to experience the cultural clash” SASKILLA

n Thursday 30th March 2017 BFI Player launched the MARCH 2017 BFI PLAYER (player.bfi.org.uk) WILL LAUNCH THE COMPLETE HOMELANDS complete Homelands Documentary, following four WING FOURofOFthe THE UK’Smost MOST EXCITING UK’s exciting blackBLACK ARTISTS SIGNED ONTO HOMELANDS, A artists signed onto homelands, ADVENTURE WOULD CHALLENGE THEM ALL ARTISTICALLY AND PERSONALLY. anTHAT International music adventure that would challenge them all artistically and personally. Homelands was a year-long series of global tours, artistic residencies and worldwide explorations that involved each exceptional musician revisiting thony@punch-records.co.uk | 0121 224 7444 their unique personal roots in the UK and their shared cultural roots overseas, as they all created and performed new music in response to their homeland journeys. This documentary is a culmination of each story.

co.uk | punch-records.co.uk | @punchrecords

ER premiere for HOMELANDS film with Saskilla, Terri Walker and Diztortion “I really want people to see where my influences come from - it will make me grow” TERRI WALKER

l Diztortion

“I want to show people what the culture is about, and how it blends with my music” DIZTORTION

● Terri Walker is a Mercury Music Prize and four ”I want to discover more about myself times MOBO award nominee, singing with TNT, 187 Lockdown and shine a light on the true origins of UK and Shanks & Bigfoot. She was music” signed to Def Soul in the UK, and worked in Jamaica. SHAKKA ● Diztortion has his own recording studio in London and is signed to Universal Records, “I’m hoping to advance as an artist and working with Lethal Bizzle, Stylo I’m excited to experience the cultural G, Wiley, Tinie Tempah and others. Diz headed out to Suriname, clash” South America. SASKILLA ● Shakka is a double MOBO winner and has millions of YouTube hits on his Shakkapellas. He’s worked with Wretch 32, MARCH 2017 BFI PLAYER (player.bfi.org.uk) WILL LAUNCH THE COMPLETE HOMELANDS Basement Jaxx and angel, and headed out to Dominica. WING FOUR OF THE UK’S MOST EXCITING ● Saskilla began MC’ing at theBLACK ARTISTS SIGNED ONTO HOMELANDS, A age of 15 , and played a major part ADVENTURE WOULD CHALLENGE THEM ALL ARTISTICALLY AND PERSONALLY. in THAT the UK’s Grime scene, forming nu brand Flexxx and also as a member of Roll Deep. He travelled to Senegal. Ammo Talwar MBE, CEO of Punch, the agency behind the homelands documentary said: “This is a groundbreaking docthony@punch-records.co.uk | 0121 224 7444 umentary that really challenged each exceptional artist uniquely. They all traveled alone, with a small film crew following them, to a nation at the root of their sound and cultural identity. They made new compositions with local musicians, and met up with family in each Homeland country”

co.uk | punch-records.co.uk | @punchrecords

rom the 1st year at the Ricoh Arena, Conventry, 3 years ago it cemented itself as a must attend annual event. Its great to see that there is careful thought into who deserves awards and really just to see something with meaning. This year saw Lenny Henry present the prestigious event at the Hilton Hotel Park Lane and how fitting it was that by far this was their biggest turn out of dignitries and major celebrities such as Tessa Sanderson, David Hayes, Wstrn, Kash The Flash and many others all out to support the cause in seeing the recognition given to those that deserve it most. Sir Mo Farah and Kadeena Cox were the winners of Lycamobile Sportsman and Sporting Equals Sportswoman of the Year respectively. Sir Mo Farah, who was unable to attend on the night commented;

WIN

Youth Sport Trust Young Sports P of the Year Alice Tai

British Army Unsung Hero Inderpal Singh Cheema

Sport England Community Spo Project of the Year Spring SLR

England Athletics Coach of the Y Chris Hughton

Spirit of 2012 Connecting Comm Al Madina Centre Mind Wellbeing Award Sonia Smith

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 23

www.streetcredmagazine.com

“Thank-you to the Lycamobile British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards and a very special thanks to everyone who’s voted for me. “It really means a lot to be named as your Sportsman of the Year! And congratulations to my fellow nominees as well. “It’s so great to see everyone come together this evening to celebrate the incredible achievements of our diverse sporting communities” Kadeena, who was delighted with her win, said “I’m very honoured to have won this award and would like to give a massive thanks to Sporting Equals for all the work they do in BAME communities” Most awards shows feel the same but this really is one to attend. A massive congratulations to all the winners who as you can see were genuinely happy to recieve their awards. Lenny Henry did a grand performance and wont be surprised if he will be the hiost again next year

NNERS

Person

Tennis Foundation Special Achievement Shapla Sports FA Recognition Award Rashid Abba

orts

UK Sport Inspirational Performance Ruqsana Begum

Year

Sporting Equals Sportswoman of the Year Kadeena Cox

munities

Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year Mo Farah Lifetime Achievement Award Jason Robinson OBE

BRITISH ETHNIC DIVERSITY SPORTS AWARDS

Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

Agony Aunt

A Rose Between Thorns

l Dr Saroj ‘Rose’ Duggal

recently found out that my boyfriend of 5 years has cheated on me with one of my best friends. What should I do? I still really love him but I can’t stand my best friend anymore. I don’t want to lose him. - Stacey, Wolverhampton Dear Stacey, Get rid of both of them from your life yesterday. They are not good for you or anyone around you, and you won’t be able to trust either of them ever again. If he truly loved you he would never have strayed, and if she was truly your best friend then she would never have gone with him. Get rid of the deadweight in your life and move on.

s a gay man, I have recently been wondering why as a homosexual, we have to ‘come out’ to people. Why doesn’t a heterosexual person have to profess who or why they love someone else. Surely what is important is that two people love each other and what they do in the privacy of their own home is up to them? If being homosexual is considered ‘normal’ nowadays, why is there still this pressure to let everyone else know what you like? - Dave, Preston Wow Dave, this was a really deep question! I don’t truly understand the whole thing around ‘coming out’ personally. Regardless of which side your bread is buttered, as you say, it is your business who you like and why should you have to say anything on the matter to anyone else? Continue to be a strong role model and decide how you want to live your life for yourself. Don’t work to anyone elses rule if you are not happy with it. Good luck!

www.streetcredmagazine.com

BIGScreen

hen her father Maurice goes missing, his daughter Belle, a strong and independent young woman, goes in search for him, only to discover that he has been taken prisoner by a hideous Beast. After trading her life for his, Belle finds herself trapped in the Beast's castle with only his servants to keep her company. As time passes by, Belle grows close to those around her and even begins to see a warmer side to this cold-hearted Beast. However, back in her village, Belle's father Maurice has spread word of the Beast's existence, forcing an unscrupulous hunter named Gaston to unite the village and embark on a warpath to kill the Beast and rescue Belle. Bill Condon, a director perhaps best known for Dreamgirls (2006) and the final two instalments of The Twilight Saga, Breaking Dawn Part One (2011) and Breaking Dawn Part Two (2012) has teamed up with Disney to deliver the latest live-action adaptation of one of their animated classics. Beauty and the Beast is arguably, perhaps undoubtedly, one of the greatest Disney movies of all time, so it had some very big shoes to fill and, like Cinderella before it...the shoe fits pretty darn well. The exact same story from the original is used, only it is fleshed out, extended and modified, giving more prominence to certain characters and allowing everyone to shine brighter than they ever did before. The Beast's servants, for example, are given genuine backstories and character arcs that only serve to add to the overall

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

April 01 Crossroads Band 01 Ghost 01 Jorja Smith 04 Attila 05 Tory Lanez: I Told You Tour 06 Ne-Yo 07 Road Trip 08 Yungen 10 You Me At Six 11 Stormzy 13 Kasabian 20 Jake Miller 22 The Kooks 24 Rag’n’Bone Man 30 Rewind & Fast Forward: David Rodigan & Mighty Crown

O2 INSTITUTE

April 02 Temples 06 Toseland 08 Jon Bellion 09 The Tide 09 Melanie C 13 Chris Bourne 15 Cardi B 15 ICW Fight Club 16 Giggs 20 The Shimmer Band 25 Deafheaven 27 Jamie Lenman 28 Keywest

review

Beauty and the Beast

experience. The movie has not simply been padded out with unnecessary nonsense; every change that has been made and every piece of information that has been added is done so for the benefit of the movie as a whole. Beauty and the Beast does something most "remakes" fail to do - it feels like more than a shameless attempt to cash in on an existing property; It almost feels like an entirely new experience. Everything we love about the original animated classic remains intact, but there is more than enough new material to warrant Disney's latest venture into the world of live-action, and with the resounding success of their pre-

vious live-action movies such as Cinderella and The Jungle Book, there seems to be absolutely no sign of them slowing down, so this is an exciting time for Disney fans. The exquisite Emma Watson is stunning as Belle, a casting choice many were unhappy with when it was first announced. She proves herself here and delivers a tender and emotional, yet strong-willed and feisty performance as the wonderful Belle. There's an innocence and purity to the character that makes you instantly fall in love with her; she has a warmth and light to her that is completely absent in the rest of her little village. She's a big-minded outcast, desperate for more than the confines

wORDS by antony brown

of her small-minded village has provided her with. Enter...THE BEAST! Dan Stevens, of Downton Abbey and The Guest fame, brings life to The Beast through motion capture - meaning he had to walk on stilts and wear a 40-pound muscle-suit covered in grey Lycra and marker dots for months on set and his hard work pays off. Under all of the CGI-enhancements lies a charming performance that is equal parts dark and full of humour. A lot of the comedy featured in Beauty and the Beast stems from The Beast's relationship with the likes of Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs. Potts, which is often tumultuous but seeping with an underlying affection that is deeply en-

28 Japandroids 30 The Saw Doctors

(TH) 17 The Solid Silver 60’s Show (TH) 19-23 Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games (SH) 23 Brum Bands Unite Celebrating St George’s Day (TH) 24 Kristiina Rokashevich in Recital (TH) 24 Chris De Burgh & Band: A Better World Live 2017 (SH) 27 Henning Wehn: Westphalia is Not an Option (TH) 28 Friday Night Classics: British Blockbusters (SH)

BARCLAYCARD ARENA

April 12 The Who 14 Harlem Globetrotters 15 E3UK Live 20 Richard Ashcroft 22 Diversity 24-25 Bruno Mars 27 2017 Betway Premier League Darts 28-29 Ed Sheeran

GENTING ARENA

April 05-09 Good Mourning Mrs Brown 12-16 Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic 20 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

NEC

April 06-09 Antiques For Everyone Spring Fair 06-08 Who Do You Think You Are? Live 14-17 Insomnia60 - The UK’s Biggest Gaming Festival

grained in the decades of history they share with one another. It's delightful to see them all interact. The entire cast brings their A-game and chew the scenery with their theatrical performances, but perhaps the most perfectly cast role in the entire movie is Luke Evans as Gaston. He brings the smarminess by the bucket-load and becomes the living embodiment of the classic Disney douchebag we all love to hate. He's good looking, he's charming, he's funny, he's crude, he's dastardly, and he tackles the role with a playful facetiousness that's an absolute joy to behold. All of the classic songs of our youth remain intact and are beautifully performed by our great new cast, but there are also a handful of brand new songs written specifically for this remake and they fit in brilliantly. One new song in particular stands head and shoulders above the rest, and that is The Beast's powerful and emotional solo reprisal "Evermore" which is a gorgeous addition, not only to Beauty and the Beast, but to Disney's entire back catalogue of classic songs. All in all, Beauty and the Beast is a remarkable experience. With some of the most gorgeously realised production design in recent memory and the most exquisite song-and-dance numbers this side of La La Land, it truly feels like you're watching a grand West End stage show, so much so that in the screening I attended, when the movie cut to black for the final time, the audience erupted in applause. It's one of the only times I've ever experienced anything like it in a cinema. Perhaps the simplest recommendation I can give is this; if you love Disney's original 1991 classic, you'll love this enchanting remake of a tale as old as time.

l Stormzy will be blowing Birmingham away at the Academy on the 11th

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

April 01-02 Caro Emerald (SH) 02 AT LAST: The Etta James Story (TH) 03 Billy Ocean (SH) 04 London Grammar (TH) 05 Murray Perahia performs Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto (SH) 06-08 Rachmaninovs Third (SH) 06 Femi Temowo featuring Engines Orchestra (SH) 07 Saint-Saëns’ Organ Sym-

phony (SH) 08 Naomi’s Wild & Scary (TH) 08 Rob Beckett - Mouth of the South (TH) 09 Azadi Celebration Classic (TH) 12 Laura van der Heijden plays Tchaikovsky (TH) 12 10cc Greatest Hits & More (SH) 13 Mahler’s Fifth (SH) 14 Good Friday St John Passion (SH) 15-16 Rick Astley (SH) 15 The Night Owl and Town Hall Birmingham present - The Big Birmingham Soul Night

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

April 01 Fires That Divide 06 Marcel Lucont’s Whine List 08 The Annual Mayors Charity Rock Festival 14 Superstar Comedy - USA Special 15 Richard Herring - The Best 16 VITAL’s 21 Tax The Heat 28 PORK 29 Pink Floydian 30 Raymond Froggatt

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 25

www.streetcredmagazine.com

£325m Electric Taxi Plant Opens in Coventry

he London Taxi Company has opened a new £300 million car plant in Coventry, the first to be dedicated to producing electric vehicles. The site in Ansty, is the first vehicle manufacturing facility to be built in Britain for more than a decade. In 2013, the London Taxi Company faced administration before China's Zhejing Geely Holding Group stepped in to rescue the firm. Designed for, and dedicated to being ultra-low emission commercial vehicles, more than 1,000 jobs, including 200 engineers and 30 apprenticeships, have been created by the opening of the plant. The new electric taxi will go on sale in London towards the end of this year, and then around the world in early 2018. Carl-Peter Forster, London Taxi Company chair, said; “The opening of our new plant sets a number of records: it's the first brand new automotive manufacturing facility in Britain for over a decade, the first dedicated electric vehicle factory in the UK, and the first major Chinese investment in UK automotive.”

PSA confirm takeover at GM’s Vauxhall and Opel

Small cars to face VED costs A

here’s a significant change in the way that road tax is being paid with anyone buying cars with low CO2 emissions facing a highest relative rise in the tax. Before, any such vehicles didn't incur the charges, known formally as Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), but cars registered on or after April 1 will be charged linked to carbon emissions, with three bands - zero, standard and premium - determining how much will be paid on the car each year. However, if you have a car already, the rule changes do not apply, with the VED remaining under

fter weeks of speculation, French car giants, PSA Group, is to buy the European operations of General Motors, including Vauxhall in the UK, for £1.9bn. But the announcement about the deal and its impact on thousands of jobs at Vauxhall plants in Ellesmere Port and Luton has the Unite union calling for assurances over the longterm future of the UK factories and their 4,500 employees. Unite’s general secretary, Len McCluskey, said thousands of workers at the UK plants had endured a "nerve-racking" few weeks. "While initial discussions with the PSA Group have been relatively positive, our priority is to ensure a long-term future for our plants and the tens of thousands of workers depending on them." Gavin Shuker, Labour MP for Luton South said: "Our plants are among the most efficient of any in the new company so the Government now needs to play its part by delivering a Brexit deal that keeps Vauxhall building in the UK. They deserve a bright future."

the existing rates. As more cars get cleaner, the existing rules have cut back the Treasury's income - hence these changes, with now only newly registered cars with zero emissions escaping VED - that means electric and hydrogen cars. The changes reflect the fact that car manufacturers have cut many car models' CO2 emissions leaving a sliding scale of charges for the first year of ownership and after that petrol or diesel vehicles are subject to a ‘standard’ rate of £140 a year. Cars registered before 1 April, 2017 are not affected by the VED changes.

ADVERTORIAL

The One-Stop Car Shop T here’s a new car spares and accessories store that is attracting attention from near, far and even further afield that has just about everything you need to keep your vehicle on the road and in tip-top condition. Hockley Car Spares, in Birmingham, is the little shop with a massive array of choice for all major car makers – and much more in between. From providing MOT, diagnostic, battery and alternator testing – at 26A Hamstead Road, in Handsworth - to light bulbs and brake pads, car software programming and servicing to free oil checks, floor mats and liners; big names like Audi, BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Vauxhall, Peugeot, VW, Toyota and many, many more are covered and catered for – and all at very competitive prices. In fact, they will match any price, for any item, from any other car spares store. They also supply a recognized number-plate service too. In addition, you have the latest technology in the electronic option to cigarettes. So, for discount prices on all your

MOTORING

car needs – and more, Hockley Car Spares is the one-stop shop to keep you motoring. For all your vehicle needs, at affordable prices owner, Qasim Virgo says; “Bring any quote, from any

recognised car store, to Hockley Car Spares, and we will match any genuine price.” Open 7days-a-week, there’s also their out of hours number (07872942-718) for that all-round service.

Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

The Challenge is an exciting knockout grand prix taking place at Teamwork’s Karting, Digbeth, one of the fastest and best equipped tracks in the country, right here in Birmingham. The heats will run monthly starting from April 26th, flowing into the semi-finals in September and October building up to the spectacular Grand Final finish in November. This is an exhilarating indoor kart racing competition, using superfast – state of the art machines with over 500 competitors and up to 10 drivers on the track at any one time, each team will be battling it out for a place in the grand final, it’s a fun party style event with live entertainment from our featured band “The Dead Sea

#RRaaiscee To ds Fun

We Want You !

The Race is ON!! First Heat April 26th “The Superkart Charity Challenge” the most adrenalin fuelled – fun busting, knock-out charity event to take place in Birmingham during 2017. Come down and party with us and help in raising £20,000 for each of the nominated charities and give your support to our local community groups taking part.

Skulls”, cheeky banter and invigorating race commentary from our very own “MC Raaj”... plus surprise appearances from our local and national celebrities who will be dropping in, performing and generaly having fun, mingling freely amongst us for selfies, autographs and more. Theres going to be delicious fine food and drink within our VIP hospitality area with tasty snacks and refreshements available to all, there’s also a licensed bar for those who are not driving... Its all about fun, about breaking down barriers and creating an awareness of just how much time and effort these individuals put in to help and support our community. Come on down, join in the party, get to meet and know our local businesses, make friends and create partnerships that will bring everyone together for the benefit of our community helping to build for the future as this fantastic city of ours evolves into the great cosmopolitan centre of the 21st century it intends to be.

A Warm Welcome To Our First Teams Up On The Starting Grid Representing Our Local Business Teams: Akaal Ltd - Oldbury MotorservUK - Solihull Premium Meat & Poultry - Bham Portland Eyecare Group - Bham The Phoenix Flyers - Celebrity Guest Team And Representing Our Local Community Teams: Amirah Foudation JABS B8 AIM Academy SCCB Bordesley PLUS .. a very special private entry racing on behalf of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity & Cureleukeamia. AG13 Racing - Chris Cleaver We have limited places left for spectators and VIP tickets so get in quick if you want to be part of this great fundraising spectacular.

If you’re a business you can get involved in a variety of ways, by entering a team yourself, by sponsoring one of our local community groups or by becoming one of our event sponsors promoting your brand to a wider audience - Get in touch now for a great opportunity !

hello@superkartltd.co.uk Tel: 0121 516 7128

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 27

Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

ST PATRICKS DAY FESTIVAL 2017

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St Patricks Day Festival 2017 Celebrates Cultural Diversity

s the world celebrated St Patrick’s Day, the UK again proved a leader with one of the most diverse and united acknowledgement in the heart of the country. Britain’s second city-Birmingham-was again head and shoulders above all with passion, variety and overall excitement yet again in great abundance. With this year’s event having not one, but two stages of live music on Parade Day, some BIG names, plus some of the finest up and coming emerging talent to party the day away. Organisers put around 75,000 people – the third biggest in the world - turning up to the city’s Digbeth district which saw an a sea of green, white and gold as the streets were bathed in the Irish tri-colour to mark one of the biggest outdoor events on the calendar. From traditional folk ensembles to the compendium of colour that is a typically Caribbean carnival

tropes, St. Patrick’s Festival 2017 celebrated cultural diversity, plus complex and brave social cohesion as it weaved through a full programme of events to honour the rich Emerald heritage while shining a bright green light on the contemporary Irish culture, both at home and abroad. Again St. Patrick’s Day, in Ireland, the UK and throughout the world, proved to be one of the best social events on any calendar - with so much, for so many, to get involved with.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 29

www.streetcredmagazine.com

CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT

3RD ANNIVERSARY SPOTLIGHT

Welcome to my column where I feature some of the most Welcome to my column where Iand feature some of the most special Charities, Organisations People I have come across. special Charities, Organisations andbeing People I have come across. Be a part of my journey and enjoy inspired... Be a part of my journey and enjoy being inspired...

n this months’ spotlight, I would like to CELEBRATE! April 2017 is the 3rd Year Anniversary of Camara’s Spotlight. I can’t believe how quickly time has flown by but it has been such a powerful time. I completed sixth-form and decided to take a year out to work and progress further, this giving me a little time to reflect on my 15 years in education. School helped me to develop academically and socially and the last years in sixth-form proved to motivate me to be, “the best that I can be” - this is in fact, my High School’s motto! A month after leaving school, I was offered a great role within Word 4 Weapons, a Charity which helps to make communities safer, installing secure weapons bins which collects knives and guns. I said yes and went on to train as a coordinator for the Charity. We now carry out School

l I Will Tell International Film Festival red carpet

l Smiling with my Phoenix team! Mark Dwayne, Me, Daniel Riley Workshops which highlights dressing its root causes. I am currently an ambassador some of the myths, facts, laws and issues surrounding gun and for a number of Organisations knife crime and the effect it has and Charities including: Spirit Of London Awards, Through on people. Having previously attended Unity, Descendants, Angel years of meet- Foundation JA in partnership ings, I decided with the Jamaican High Comit was time to mission in the UK. Each of these roles require do less talking and more do- some sort of communication whether it be via email, over the ing. I am now telephone, networking, public also a youth speaking or performing. Each role has helped me to observer to a cross-party grow in different ways. I conParliamentary tinue to remind my mentees that campaign to speaking can be fun! It doesn’t have to be all overend youth violence in the whelming and serious and alUK, part of the ways remember to end your aims - to reduce conversation on a positive note. Being positive can lighten serious youth violence by ad- someone’s mood and who

l Spirit Of London Awards Ambassadors

l Celebrating with Bianca Miller, my ‘Wise Women Award’

l With Retired Police Superintendent and friend, Leroy Logan MBE

Marcia McLaughlin - Founder & Editor-In-Chief, Daniel Riley - Assistant Editor, Steve Williams - Sports Editor, Mark Dwayne - Head of Promotion and Marketing. – Love to you guys, Cx I look forward to sharing more with you all this year. HAPPY APRIL! Love, Camara x A big thank you to the Featured, who have made their positive mark: Street Cred Magazine, Spirit Of London Awards, Through Unity, Word 4 Weapons, FFC Haringey, Descendants, Robert Levy Foundation, Transformation Powerhouse, Streetwyze Music Youth Academy, Angel Foundation JA, The Jarret Foundation, Jeanette Arnold OBE AM, Nathaniel Peat, The Chris Donovan Trust, Mandalina Stepniewska, Give Blood UK, Chelsea Kwakye, Desmond Jaddoo, Andrea Corbett, Ms Sheri Adegbsan, Boldstitch Handmade, Anti-Knife UK, Waltham Forest Twinning Association, The Nurses Association of Jamaica, LVE Foundation, Esha Ilyas, Robin Lockhart, I Will Tell International Film Festival, Dr John Roberts, Mark Johnson Designs, Jamaicans Inspired UK, Dream Nation.

l Catching up with Steve McQueen (director of 12 Years a Slave) mummy would not want to be re- of the most kind, courageous, membered as someone positive? funny and hard-working people Another thing I have focused I have come across. Through the ups and downs, on in the last few years is, to set a goal! Setting a goal is like hav- they continue to stay so strong. So this month, my 3rd year aning a road map. You can work towards some- niversary, I would like to thank The thing whether it be little or large, buying a pair of shoes or buying Phoenix Newspaper team - for being so special: a home! Reaching the goal is sweet, so why not enjoy the steps leading towards it. I have learnt overall that the journey is no less important than the goal. camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com Camara’s Spotlight would not have a platform without the www.camaraofficial.com support I get from The Phoenix www.linkedin. com/CamaraFearon Newspaper team. mara (aka mizzcamara for websearch) Ca This team of people are some

l Standing strong with Jeanette Arnold OBE AM at her International Women’s Day event at City Hall

Get in Touch with Camara

l Speaking and singing at I Will Tell International l Word 4 Weapons winning a Premier Love Film Festival Britain + Ireland Award

Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

WEDNESDAY MIC FEVER

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Catch Your ‘Wednesday Mic Fever’ A

bumper crowd heralded its 1st anniversary as some of the regions finest spoken word artists continued to deliver speech in all its fineries. From poems to rap, song and dance, ‘Wednesday Mic Fever’ was yet another variable ‘mortise board' of mid-week live entertainment that, as always, left all wanting more. Hosted by celebrated writer and performance poet Ita Gooden and Judith Rowe - aka Miss Emeline – who recently returned from hosting and performing in the 'Big Bands' show in Switzerland’s (similar to the X Factor) and has released a CD entitled ‘Judy Emeline 10 years live.’ It was one of those not-toooften seen nights where people of different ages, genders, and cultures got together, at the Mango Lounge in Birmingham, to enjoy a myriad of entertainment, and education, through the afore-mentioned art forms, plus; jazz, reggae r&b, lover's rock, dance and drama. “This very cultural, yet multicultural Wednesday Mic Fever celebration is,” says Ita aka Miss Culture Jam, “a non-funded community project that allows established and new artists to showcase their talents to a live audience of all cultures, genders and genres.” A spectacular anniversary night saw what will be one of the last ever appearances of one of the city’s greatest ever poets,

Spicy Fingers – who is returning to his homeland, Jamaica, after some 40-years of entertaining and educating his mass following here in the UK and further afield. It was also a night for up-andcoming artists; like fresh-sounding home-based rapper, Hayda Richards, much sought-after saxophonist Samantha Jayne (back from a successful tour with her Whitney Houston Tribute Band), Michael George – a veteran of observational and spiritual enlightenment, female rapper Zara Sykes – she’s worked with the likes of Joss Stone and Mary J. Blige, one of the finest dub artists and organiser of ‘Power in Poetry’ More Culture, unique spoken word artist and figure head of Writers Without Borders Sue Brown, inspirational spoken word artist Joe Cook and drama by Chester Morrison and Ita portraying the iconic Jamaicans Louise Bennett and Eric Coverlly. There was also the 8-piece Sabrosa Salsa Dancers, who kept one and all on their toes all night long. “I'm very proud to be facilitating this project,” says an overwhelmed Ita. This has turned peoples Wednesday night into their Saturday nights!" Ita is part of the ‘Writers Without Borders’ writing group and was one of a dozen people from across the United Kingdom who was selected to write a special poem to celebrate the London 2012 Olympics. Her other accolades include;

writing a poem for Olympics sprint legend Usain Bolt, performing at the Symphony Hall, in Birmingham, for the Jamaican London 2012 Olympics Athletes Team and sharing the stage with international singing star Beverley Knight and world-renowned performance-poet Benjamin Zephaniah and has recently featured on the BBC Television programme ‘The Hairy Bikers’ the Chicken and Egg show. That notwithstanding, Miss Culture Jam also hosted the 2016 Caribbean Food Festival in Birmingham Centenary Square, performed on the Birmingham leg of Jamaican dub poet Mutaburuka’s UK tour in 2016, was one of the headline artists at the ‘Power in Poetry’ UK tour and the author of the book; 'On The Face Of It.' and a CD entitled La Fire. ‘Wednesday Mic Fever’ - Supported by artistic stalwarts like; Chester Morrison, Sue Brown, Michael George, DJ Chicken George, Predencia Dixon, John Bailey and Spicy Fingers - takes place on the first Wednesday of every month at the Mango Lounge in Perry Barr, Birmingham. The Mango Lounge is a wonderful venue for this community project which has only been made possible by the owners Justin and Juliette who generously allowed the use for the benefit of the community. So, if you want to make your Wednesday night-out a Saturday night-out, where better to go?

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 31

TONY SEALEY 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Birthday Celebrations Abound For Tony Sealey

ou wouldn’t have noticed to look at him but it really was – Athelston ‘Tony’ Sealey OBE celebrated his 60th, yes, 60th birthday. As family, friends and close associates gathered at the Park Regus Hotel, in Birmingham, to see if they could get any of that

‘alexia of life’ that has made one of the city’s most prominent and busiest figures look so young...for so long. As the setting for a sumptuous, luxurious and unforgettable night was all in place and so it was as all present paid homage to one of Birmingham’s favourite sons. From the Caribbean, to Britain,

back again and far beyond, one of Barbados’s proudest was given a night to remember for some time to come. With business interests in abundance, here in the UK – he has a string of McDonald’s franchises and other worthy businesses throughout Birmingham, as well as his stake in the economy of his

homeland, this was a night not just to say ‘Happy Birthday Tony,’ but to also say ‘Thank You’ for your erstwhile contribution in making yours, your family’s and others’ lives a whole lot better for just being there. We say again ‘Happy Birthday’ Athelston ‘Tony’ Sealey OBE.

Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE WITH DR NESLYN WATSON-DRUée CBE FRCN FCGI

Leadership Excellence

with Dr Neslyn Watson-Druée CBE FRCN FCGI

Working Effectively With Difficult People Behaviours

eople with difficult behaviours have learnt those behaviours that they have used to work best for themselves; they have found the choice that works for them. Difficult behaviour patterns are predictable behaviour patterns. As a leader you need to be smart in handling people difficult behaviour patterns. Often persons with difficult behaviour patterns are unaware of the impact they are having on other people and in some cases their patterns defy logic. In contrast other persons with difficult behaviour patterns are aware of their impact and they seem to derive satisfaction from creating havoc and they know exactly when to push other persons’ stress buttons. Difficult behaviour patterns within the workplace needs to be handled because those patterns create stress for others and studies have shown that stress can have a negative impact on the brain. Exposure to even a few days of stress compromises the effectiveness of the neurons in the part of the brain that is responsible for reasoning and memory. As a leader I encourage you to develop your emotional intelligence inclusive of your ability to manage your emotions and remain calm under pressure. The other side of that is that you are also required to enable coaching for your teams to handle difficult people behaviour.

So how do you stay on track with difficult people behaviour?

I begin with drawing on my vast experience in healthcare, teaching, business psychology, observations within my many leadership roles and I offer you 7 approaches that have been proven to be effective as follows: 1. Know what you want to achieve or ex-

to the behaviour to which you are responding - their words and tone of voice – what works and what does not work. 3. Im-

prove your communication skills and enable improvement in the communication skills of your teams. Build rapport: A relationship of trust and co-operation. Reduce conflict – remember a source of conflict may arise when you move someone on without the person’s co-operation. So set a tone for problem-solving and co-operation rather than conflict generation. Develop common ground and meet the person with the difficult behaviour pattern where the person is at. Show understanding and reduce the difference between you and the other person and above all show integrity – do what you say and say what you do. 4. Apply Performance Improvement Process with the following in mind: (a) Listen to the person with the difficult behaviour pattern in a way that you have never done before – at the root of a difficult behaviour pattern is the seed of a hurt an emotional wound that has not yet been healed. (b) Give spe-

haviour and performance and agree the review rewards at intervals. 5. Set limits – people with difficult behaviour patterns tend to focus on their problems and fail to focus on solutions. So ask, what would you like to do about the situation? How might I help you to find a solution? 6. Maintaining emotional balance requires awareness. You cannot stop someone pushing your emotional buttons if you don’t recognise when it is happening. So let go of what is happening, move on and monitor what you are saying to yourself. When you absorb the negativity of other persons you enter a self-defeating downward spiral, therefore, avoid negative selftalk at all cost. 7. Establish clear boundaries. This is an area where a number

of leaders tend to sell themselves short. It is necessary for you to establish your boundaries consciously and proactively. When you set a boundary and decide why and how you will engage a person with difficult behaviour pattern, you often find that you can control the havoc and chaos that the difficult behaviour patterns elicit. Focus on solutions – Where you focus your attention determines your emotional state – when you focus on solutions you create a sense of personal efficacy that produces positive emotions and reduce stress in contrast to fixating on problems that create negative emotions and stress.

Improve your emotional intelligence with:

perience and be clear on how the difficult behaviour patterns impact on that which you want to achieve or experience. Then state what you want effectively and assertively. Pay attention to the specifics of what you want, your assumptions and what you are seeing. Work on building Trust – Remember Trust is the glue to the bonding of effective relationships. 2. Pay attention to the specifics of what the person with the difficult behaviour pattern is being or doing –

cific feedback and form a performance agreement and check that you have been listened to. (c) Support the person with the difficult behaviour pattern to do a self-analysis – Ask the person with the difficult behaviour pattern from your perspective, how do you see and understand the situation? How do you feel when ….? What do you experience? What would you wish to feel and experience instead? (d) Give feedback on work performance – specify rewards for new be-

DR NESLYN WATSON-DRUÉE Neslyn@Neslyn.com

There is a limited offer on Leadership Breakthrough Coaching at

http://neslyn.com/breakthrough-coaching you can contact Neslyn at

Email: Neslyn@Neslyn.com http://Neslyn.com

Facebook: https://goo.gl/7HGTu0

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 33

OBITUARIES AND COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

Obituaries

Former Lord Mayor Ray Hassall

Sister Sledge, Joni

A popular former Birmingham Lord Mayor, Councillor Hassall served Perry Barr, for the Liberal Democrats, since 1990. A keen jogger, he was a massive supporter and patron of sport and the arts in the city before serving as a cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture from 2006 to 2009 - launching and taking part in the Birmingham Half Marathon. As Lord Mayor, in 2015, he ran the Great Birmingham 10k. Despite being publically known for his sense of humour, his personal life was blighted by sorrow when he lost his only son Jonathan and was left without any immediate family. He died suddenly, aged 74.

Along with her three sisters Debbie, Kim and Kathy, Philadelphia-born Joni, formed R&B group Sister Sledge of ‘We Are Family,’ plus the Nile Rodgers/ Bernard Edwards-penned ‘He's the Greatest Dancer’ and ‘Lost in Music’ fame. The daughters of a Broadway dancer and an actress and the granddaughters of an opera singer, second eldest Joni was found unresponsive by a friend at her home in Phoenix Arizona. At the time no cause of death was determined. She was 60.

Chuck Berry

One of ‘founder fathers’ of rock & roll, Chuck was its greatest exponent. Spanning six decades, he was its greatest songwriter, with some great names including George Harrison, Keith Richards, Bruce Springsteen and Eric Clapton proudly admitted that they honed their style and developed their styles by copying him. The St. Louis native had more influence on the formation and development of rock & roll than anyone else with his infusion of country, blues and R&B influences to creating a singular guitar technique. Pairing his skills with dashing charisma, magnetic stage moves, an expressive voice and fantastic songwriting, for generations, Chuck was rock & roll’s first great hitmakers. He was 89.

Sir Derek Walcott

F1 and GP world champ Martin McGuinness John Surtees CBE

Regarded as one of the finest individuals in motor racing history, he remains the only man to win world championships both in Formula One and motorbikes. Surtees took the F1 world championship win for Ferrari in 1964 and also won the GP motorcycle championship four times in the

Ryan McBride

Derry City captain, McBride, was found dead at home a day after he led his side in a 4-0 League of Ireland win over Drogheda United. His death is the latest tragedy to befall the club following the death of striker Mark Farren who died at the age of 33 after battling a brain tumor and the Buncrana pier tragedy, in Donegal, which claimed the lives of winger Josh Daniels’ mother, sister, brother-inlaw and nephews. Ryan was 27.

A republican figurehead, who worked at the heart of the power-sharing government following the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the Sinn Féin politician and former Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister had been suffering from a rare heart condition. The former IRA leader turned peacemaker, together with Gerry

years 1956, 1958, 1959, and 1960. He founded the Surtees Racing Organisation team that competed as a constructor in Formula One, Formula 2 and Formula 5000 from 1970 to 1978 and was also the ambassador of the Racing Steps Foundation. He was 83.

Education Awards Ceremony

at Warwickshire County Cricket Club nd Edgbaston Cricket Grou Birmingham on July 7, 2017 Nominations now open

urprise!

p, Big S Little Sho

To Advertise

Adams, was the main republican architect of the move towards a political solution to Northern Ireland's problems. Born into a large family living in the deprived Bogside area of Londonderry he died early in a hospital in his home town with his family by his side. He was 66.

FIFA Beach World Cup 2017

A Saint Lucian-born poet and playwright, Sir Derek Alton Walcott, KCSL OBE OCC received the 1992 Nobel Prize in Literature. He was Professor of Poetry at the University of Essex with works which include the Homeric epic masterpiece ‘Omeros.’ The most prominent citizen of the eastern Caribbean island nation, Walcott received many literary awards, including an Obie Award in 1971 for his play ‘Dream on Monkey Mountain,’ a MacArthur Foundation "genius" award, a Royal Society of Literature Award, the Queen's Medal for Poetry, the inaugural OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature, the 2011 T. S. Eliot Prize for his

book of poetry ‘White Egrets’ and the Griffin Trust For Excellence In Poetry Lifetime Recognition Award. He was 87.

‘Lisbon Lion’ Tommy Gemmell

FIFA Beach W will take pla orld Cup 2017 ce in the ca of Bahamas p , Nassau be ital tween 27th of Apri l and 7th of May 2017.

Moomriens at AdvenGtuardens Kew

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If you’ve got an event, notice or information that you’d like to advertise on our community notice board, get in touch with us on:

0121 339 5885

Gemmill was a member of Celtic’s ‘Lisbon Lions’ scoring in the famous 1967 European Cup win against Inter Milan - the first British club to win the competition. He was capped 18 times by Scotland and also scored in the 1970 final when the Hoops were defeated by the Dutch side Feyenoord. He spent 10 years at Parkhead between 1961 and 1971 - winning six league titles, three Scottish Cups, four League Cups - making 418 appearances and scoring 63 goals. He died, aged 73, after a long illness.

0121 339 5885 or 0208 865 1922

Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

10-a-day for Longer Life

Support Column

Reproductive Health vs Sexual Health

ast week I was asked to speak at a conference in London on Reproductive health and I was reminded of a quote which sums up reproductive health perfectly. “Sexual and reproductive health and rights are universal human rights! They are an indivisible part of the broader human rights and development equation. “Their particular power resides in the fact that they deal with the most intimate aspects of our identities as individuals and enable human dignity, which is dependent on control of our bodies, desires and aspirations.” - Babatunde Osotimehin – Previously Minister for Health in Nigeria This quote is by a man, “who gets it!” and I would argue that it encompasses a real understanding women’s rights as well as dignity in the face of a subject typically taboo. Whilst it is assumed by most that sexual and reproductive rights are universal human right, it is not practised. Women naturally, due to social pressure and cultural taboos waive these rights. Reproductive rights and sexual health are in their very nature two separate entities. The World Health Organisation describes them as such. Reproductive health refers to a state of physical, mental and social wellbeing – and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity – in all matters relating to the reproductive system and to its functions and processes, and across all stages of life. Reproductive health, therefore, implies that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so. Implicit in this is the right to be informed of, and to have access to, safe, effective, affordable and acceptable methods of fertility regulation. Also the right to access health care services to support a safe and healthy pregnancy and childbirth, and to provide parents with the best chance of having a healthy infant. Sexual health refers to a state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach

to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. While sexual health is vital for (and therefore a part of) reproductive health, it is important to also consider sexual health in its own right. So why would I argue that both of these are used (wrongly) interchangeably? Well for one, how many women openly use to the word “vagina”? – (Yes I said it!). The negative connotation of this word makes it harder for women to talk about any issues around reproductive health. I openly hear people using obscenities in their day to day life and this has become the norm. Yet the word Vagina is still up for debate as a sexualised word, provocative almost. There is a real need for a cultural shift in the way we address women’s reproductive health. Without this women are at risk of allowing these rights to be waived. It is also important that reproductive health organs, such as the vagina aren’t just displaced by popular euphuisms and vague hand gestures. This only adds to the mindset that reproductive health is linked to promiscuity and not important. It devalues the underlying issues of the conversation in the first place. The way reproductive and sexual health is portrayed in the media and in popular culture impacts on self-image, on society’s view of the role of women and girls, and on what is deemed to be socially acceptable treatment of women and girls. There is also some evidence to suggest that the sexualisation of women’s health has an influence on three of the most common mental health problems of girls and women: eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression. So, lets start taking these issues seriously, lets talk about the real issues underpinning the conversation. Are you ready to join the Reproductive revolution? Join us on our weekly #CystersChat Love, Neelam. Facebook: Cysters Support and Awareness Group Twitter: @Cystersbham Email: info@cysters.co.uk

Is a Lack of Sleep Killing You? T he death of a young businessman, who died after a massive cardiac arrest shortly after returning home from his regular gym session and workout, eight years ago, was a wake-up call for corporate India, at first, and worldwide thereafter, with the immediate question that came up as to why an exceptionally active athletic person succumbed to a heart attack at that age. Ranjan Das, from Bandra, Mumbai, was MD and CEO of SAP Indian Subcontinent, one of the youngest CEOs of an MNC in India, was a very active sportsman, a marathon runner and a known fitness fanatic. He collapsed with a massive

heart attack - the cause of his death, at 42, puzzled many since. But, after investigation, one given reason which contributed massively proved a shock to many people’s system -the lack of sleep. Das did everything right: eating proper food, exercising - maintaining proper weight. But he missed getting proper and adequate sleep - usually managing somewhere between 4-5 hours a time. While he did mention that he faced a lot of stress, a common element in most people’s lives, he used to think that by being fit, he could conquer the bad effects of stress. Dr. N. Siva Prasad Naidu, a Senior Cardiologist, said; “In-

dividuals who sleep less than 5 hours a night have a 3-fold increased risk of heart attacks. “We are playing with fire if we are sleeping less than 7 hours even if we have low stress.” Short sleep duration, 5-6 hours, increases risk for high Blood Pressure by 350% to 500% compared to those who slept longer than 6 hours per night. Sleeping for a maximum 5 hours per night leads to 39% increase in heart disease whilst 6 hours per night leads to 8% increase in heart disease. Just one night of sleep loss increases very toxic substances in body such as Interleukin-6 (IL6), Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and C-reactive protein (CRP). They also cause cancer, arthritis and heart disease. Young people (25-49 years of age) are twice as likely to get high BP if they sleep less. Dr. Siva concluded; “Sleep is composed of two stages: REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and nonREM. “The former helps in mental consolidation while the latter helps in physical repair and rebuilding. “If you sleep for less than 5 hours, the body will be in a complete physical mess (lack of nonREM sleep), you will be tired throughout the day and immunity will be way down.”

Heading a Football Hazardous for Kids?

fter a number of players were being reported with suffering from concussions the issue of head injuries in football is at the forefront of the minds of world players’ union Fifpro. During the last World Cup, in Brazil, studies have suggested that even lightweight balls can wreak lasting brain damage. Evidence, in fact, seems to be growing that children may be susceptible to brain damage, with the US Soccer Federation banning headers for under-11s. Dr. Michael Grey, a reader in motor neuroscience at the University of Birmingham’s School of Sport, said; “Increas-

ing evidence suggest there may be a problem with head injuries in football and particularly in younger players. Even if a player doesn’t suffer an obvious concussion from heading the ball (or going for a header – more often concussions occur from head-to-head or elbow contact with other players, or hitting the ground), the cumulative effect of repeatedly heading a ball could be damaging.” We call these sub concussive events that might not lead to [an obvious] brain injury each time but a little bit of damage builds up over time. “There is some belief that these subconcussive blows may lead to neuro-degeneration.”

study, by Imperial College London, says that eating fruit and vegetables 10 times a day gives you a longer life. The research identified specific fruit and veg that reduced the risk of cancer and heart disease, calculating the revised eating habits could prevent 7.8 million premature deaths each year. The teams’ analysis showed even small amounts had a health boon, but more is even better. A portion counts as 80g (3oz) of fruit or veg - the equivalent of a small banana, a pear or three heaped tablespoons of spinach or peas. The study’s conclusions were made by pooling data on 95 separate studies, involving two million people's eating habits. Dr Dagfinn Aune, one of the researchers, said: "Fruit and vegetables have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and to boost the health of our blood vessels and immune system. Chief Nutritionist at Public Health England, Dr Alison Tedstone, said: "The five-a-day target is the foundation of a healthy balanced diet and is an achievable way to help prevent a number of diseases.”

l Eastenders Star, Ellen Thomas

Eastenders’ Claudette is Sickle Cell Patron

E Former West Bromwich Albion and England striker, Jeff Astle, died in 2002, and, after 12 years, it was ruled that his death was due to brain trauma and its degeneration - caused by heading heavy leather footballs.

astEnders star, Ellen Thomas, has recently becomes a Sickle Cell Society patron. On the announcement of her patronize, the actor who plays Claudette Hubbard in the long-running BBC soap said; “I’m excited to be working with the Sickle Cell Society as a Patron. “Supporting the sickle cell community is a cause close to my heart, and I’ve been a long-time supporter of the Society’s work. “To me, it’s really important to raise awareness of sickle cell disorder and the specific needs of families affected by it. Ellen, who has previously appeared in other BBC dramas including; ‘Teachers,’ ‘Holby City’ and ‘Doctor Who,’ said further; “I’m looking forward to doing what I can for the Society and helping out where possible.”

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 35

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING

ith a national shortage of Foster carers across the UK, there are more children than ever who need a caring and loving environment, which every child has the right to experience. Whether a crisis in the family, illness or relationship difficulties could be some of the reasons why a child is placed in care.

There are already so many fantastic individuals who foster and adopt children into their families- but we need more! At the Phoenix, all of our team are committed to raising awareness of fostering and adoption through our campaign not just for the month of May, but for an entire 12 months!

We will be highlighting the inspiring work of current carers, the extensive support and training that is available and the difference that you could be making in a young persons’ life. If you feel that you can offer this, or even if you would like to find out a little bit more – don’t hesitate! It could make the greatest difference to a child’s life.

Adoption & Fostering Our ongoing campaign to help the children in need in our communities

Projects to Get £36m Funding Boost

he Minister for Vulnerable Children and Families has announced that thirty-six million pounds will be awarded to projects across the country that helps improve the lives of vulnerable children with 11 ambitious plans to help children who have been exposed to domestic abuse, support young disabled people living in care, and back care leavers as they get ready to start their adult lives. The projects are part of the Children’s Social Care Innovation Programme, which is backed by £200 million of government funding. The Minister, Edward Timpson, said: “Childhood should be a

happy and safe time in all our lives. We must do all we can to make sure this is the reality for every child. By harnessing the passion and expertise of those who care for children, we can provide them with life-changing support. By giving professionals the freedom to develop new and innovative ways of working, these fantastic projects will help make a real difference to children’s lives. I look forward to seeing them deliver great results in the future.” One of the grants will go to Lifelong Links - run by the Family Rights Group. This project brings together as many people as possible who care

Foster refugee children 'turned down’ by Home Greater Call Office

t was recently muted that the UK could have taken in a greater number of refugees - through fostering agencies – but a leading charity has said that up to 100 child refugees a week were it not for a Home Office veto, a charity leader has claimed. TACT Care, the UK’s largest fostering and adoption charity, stated that officials met with foster agencies as long ago as September 2015 about the potential for carers to provide extra capacity on top of local councils’ offers of spaces for refugees. Andy Elvin, the chief executive of TACT Care said that the Home Office never took up the

deal. He said: “We were talking to the Department for Education, because they were having meetings with the Home Office, and saying we can offer this fostering capacity now if you want it. They were aware of this throughout, but never engaged with it.” The Home Office responded that housing the children was the responsibility of local authorities, Mr Elvin said. He has previously described the Government’s claim that councils lack the capacity to house the 3,000 child refugees designated by the Dubs amendment – its reason for backing down on implementing the plan – as a “lie.”

for More Black, Asian and Mixed R Heritage Parents

about a child in a meeting called a family group conference. The aim of this is to help build a lasting support plan with the child, from helping them with their homework to taking them to a regular after-school club. Everyone will be able to offer something slightly different, and evidence suggests that this structured approach results in better placement stability and wellbeing for children in care. Family Rights Group Chief Executive, Cathy Ashley, said: “We are thrilled that the Innovation Programme has funded us to work with 7 local authorities to trial a transformative approach to creating life-long support networks for

ecent figures have revealed that up to 25 per cent of children in the care system in the UK are of Black, Asian or Mixed Heritage – which has prompted the need for more fosterers and adopters from those community to come for-

children and young people in care. “Lifelong Links involves professionals using a variety of innovative ways of searching for and connecting with family members and other adults who care about the child. “This network is then convened through a family group conference to make a lasting support plan with, and for, the young person. “By starting early in a young person’s care journey, Lifelong Links aims to ensure those social networks can be available for them in care, providing stability to their care experience and support through the transition into independent living and beyond.”

ward and provide these children with the love and stability that they deserve. With over 6,000 children currently waiting in the care system, a number of organisations are encouraging prospective parents to consider adoption as a way to build their family.

Changes to the assessment process for prospective adopters mean that more children can be adopted with fewer delays and adoption and fostering teams up and down the country can tell you all about the new process and how start, or expand on your family.

Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

AZUZA STREET

UK Christian Diaspora Alliance Launches with ‘Operation Save Jamaica’ and the UGC

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eld in collaboration with the Umbrella Group of Churches and the Jamaican Diaspora the inaugural Jamaica Christian Diaspora Conference, in Jamaica, led to the launch of the UK Christian Diaspora Alliance with the coming together of a committee at COGOP HQ in Birmingham, UK. Headed by Bishop Wilton Powell OBE, the committee, consisted of church leaders, business leaders, and representatives from NGOs. With the support of Bishop Llewelyn Graham (Nehemiah Housing), Bishop Derek Webley (New Testament Church & former West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner), Rev. Les Isaac (Ascension Trust & Street Pastors Initiative UK), Martin Levermore MBE, FRSA, Pastor Ray Veira, Beverly Johnson and Pastor Ricardo Christopher, with the objective to build upon the successful event in Jamaica, which was themed; ‘Engaging our youth, securing our future.’ By engaging with government, corporate and civil society in proactive discussions, the aims of the conference were to collaborate through cross-denominational partnership of the Church, a range of interventions to improve the engagement and inclusion of the Caribbean’s young people in the socio-economic wellbeing of the nation. Churches in the Diaspora are

exposed to a wealth of knowledge on workable solutions and projects that could be adopted and serve as support mechanisms for children’s future. Some of the ways to achieve this would include the establishment of a trust fund or foundation to support future entrepreneurs; youth diversion from prisons; educational interventions in schools and recruitment of better teachers. To also provide support for families and health training; development of performing arts initiatives and investment in business projects and youth employment schemes such as ‘Hands to Lands;’ an agri-business initiative allowing our youths to utilising unused lands, supported by the land owners in growing crops for the hospitality industry, exports, food processing and local consumption; putting idle hands to work on idle lands. Bishop Powell said; “The Church is a critical element of community involvement in national development, in promoting strong family values, participation in school gov-

ernance in giving support and advice to governments.” The Committee also recognises that issues impacting young people are real and to find a solution, ‘listening and engaging youth leaders’ has to be the first port of call. This initiative represents one of the most significant developments in the Caribbean and Britain in recent years and promises to have a significant impact on the fortunes and prospects of the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs in the Caribbean. Some projects identified are; The Street Pastors Initiative, Youth Diversion from Prisons – Rehabilitation and Reintegration, Hands to Lands – Getting young people into productivity and Building Financial Structures to Sustain Church. The Christian Diaspora Alliance is an ‘Operation Save Jamaica’ initiative.

The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017 - Page 37

OVERSEAS NEWS

New Chapter for Ondo State Greatness is Now

l Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State (L) takes Oath of Office before the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice O. Sanda, during his inauguration in Akure, while the daughter-in-law Chinelo and her baby watch national leader of the party; Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, members of the National Assembly led by Senate President, Bukola Saraki, APC stalwarts including the national chair; John Odigie-Oyegun and the people of the State. The oath of office was taking; Special parades and guard inspection by the governor, inaugural speech, and dance goodwill messages were part of activities that took place. In a final note, Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu promised to deliver on his five cardinal campaign promises.

l Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN) takes salute

luwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu and Mr. Alfred Agboola Ajayi recently took over the leadership of Ondo State as the Executive Governor and deputy Governor respectively in Akure - both taking their Oath of Office before the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice O. Sanda. At the ceremony, President Mohammadu Buhari GCFR was thanked for his leadership and unwavering stance to support what is just and noble - the celebration, it was thought, would, perhaps, have been impossible without his steely disposition to always stand against all acts not in consonance with decency, probity and justice. A genial and highly urbane personality, Akeredolu also thanked the senate president, Dr. Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara as well all APC Governors who stood to be counted with the state in their hour of needs inclusive of eminent Nigerians too numerous to be mentioned he remarked. Fondly known as ‘Aketi,’ his record of service spans almost three decades - serving the Nigeria Bar Association in various capacities at both the branch and national

l Former Governor of Anambra State and now Minister of Labour and Productivities Dr. Christ Ngigi and close associates at the Dinner Party levels meritoriously. Married to Betty Chioma Anyanwu Akeredolu of Emeabiam Owerri West Local Government, in his inaugural, speech he was humbled by the uncommon kindness of the almighty God and an unequivocal expression of preference by the good people of Ondo State “We are grateful to almighty God for granting this state such a beautiful day,” he said, “and a beautiful moment like this. I thanked the president of the federal republic of Nigeria and leader of our great party.”

Urging the people of Ondo state to see hope the way he see it, Agboola Ajayi said; ‘’I see hope for progress, stability and prosperity for people of Goodwill who are willing to contribute their quota to developing our sate foe a land of honourable, contented, smart, honest, diligent and patriotic people. I see hope for self-confidence, job security and increased commerce and economic production. I see hope for redemption and renewal of our broken infrastructure, and social values. But make no mistake about it; our journey to redemption will not be without stress and undulating curves.” Later, a gala night was put together as part of the event to mark the ceremony, with the event attended with top leader of the party APC; the Minister of Labour and Productivity, and one-time Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Christ Ngigi, Minister of Mines and Steel and former Governor of Ekiti State, the Governor of Pleatue State and others too numerous to mention. Also in attendance at the inauguration was state governors, the

l The Governor and his wife taking the national anthem

l Taking the Oath of office by the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr Agboola Ajayi (L) at the presence of the Chief Judge of Ondo State in person of Justice O. Sanda, during his inauguration

Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2017

OVERSEAS NEWS

Harry and Meghan Attend Friend’s Jamaican Wedding