The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2016 by The Phoenix Newspaper

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JANUARY 2016

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Full 28 Page Special Report starting on Page 9

l Satinder Kaur Taunque DL, HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti, Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL and Jagjit Singh Taunque MBE DL at the opening of PhoenExpo2015

Women are doing it for themselves!

Dr Saroj Duggal received a Lifetime Achievement Award at The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary Gala Awards - read all about it on page 36!

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NEWS

Prison Link rewards latest students with BTPW Certificates

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he latest recruits for the Basic Training in Prison Work (BTPW) received their individual certificates, marking the end of an intensive course of training and raising the awareness of people who have an interested in a variety of jobs relating to prison work. Held at the Wayanns Caribbean Restaurant, in Northfield, Birmingham, the ceremony was in the presence of special guest, Yvonne Mosquito MBE, Deputy Police & Crime Commissioner of the West Midlands. The course, created by BTPW CEO, Rickey Dehaney, in response to a speech made by Director General of Prisons, Phil Wheatley, in 2004, who said that he would like third sector organisations to work very closely with the prison service, as long as they have staff who are trained and aware of prison issues, saw an array of individuals, from all walks of life, be rewarded for completing the gruelling course. Yvonne said: “Our role

is to serve you and I am pleased with all of you who went through the course. As we extend our hand to you, you are now in a position to extend yours to people in need in prison who need help.” “The way I run Prison Link is influenced by Yvonne,” says Dehaney. “The select people who have completed this course have shown that they are prepared to give their time to people in prison who quite often ask for nothing else but a listening ear.” The pivotal point of the Basic Training in Prison Work (delivered at Birmingham City University, Aston Christian Centre and Calvary Community Centre) is the involvement of guest speakers e.g. prison governors, probation officers, law court officers, chaplains, security officers (Prison security and protocol is a vital part of the training) Police Officers and a very essential talk from an ex-convict. One of the sessions features a tour of Birmingham Prison - the second largest in Europe. The course is a great career enhancer and is delivered at least twice a year.

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The Phoenix – January 2016

Meet the World's youngest DJ with dedicated following of thousands of fans

Marcia McLaughlin - Managing Editor Daniel Riley - Head of Production Steve Williams - Sports Editor Owen McFarlane - Business Development Mark Dwayne - Street Cred Magazine Editor Roland Joseph Tetteh - Azuza Street Editor Camara Fearon - Columnist LJ - Community Outreach Executive White Dee - Columnist

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he world's youngest DJ who is just two years old has a dedicated following of thousands of fans thanks to his ability to work the decks. Instead of spinning-tops, 3-year-old Oratilwe Hlongwane is spinning discs, working the decks as the world’s youngest DJ. A.k.a DJ AJ, whilst still learning to put together words, Oratilwe has become a phenomenon in South Africa winning that country’s version of ‘Britain’s Got Talent,’ with $35,000 in prize money and an ever-growing international fan base. The toddler is already able to select and play music and he even earned special appearances and sponsorship deals with fans desperate to hear his bass-heavy house music. DJ AJ, whose father Glen is an amateur DJ, recently performed at a shopping mall in his home of Johannesburg, gathering a large crowd as he

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bopped his head to the beat, with large headphones slung around his neck. Oratilwe’s mother, Refiloe Marumo, credits his astounding success on the decks to his father's decision to buy an iPad for his then unborn son. Gymnastics coach, Glen, had planned to download educational apps to speed up his child's education but also downloaded a disc jockeying app for himself, but, at the age of one, little Oratilwe learned how to use the gadget and started fiddling about with his father's DJ app. His parents were blown away when their son, who still wears nappies, repeated what he had learned on the app on actual DJ equipment, playing with sound effects and bouncing between songs. A mobile phone recording of him playing music was shared online and the youngster now has nearly 25,000 Facebook fans.

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The Phoenix – January 2016

the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) prides itself on providing staff who are constantly on hand to offer support when needed. Many Houses organise kids activities such as arts and crafts sessions, birthday parties or special visits, so the children staying with us feel supported and looked after during their time away from friends at home. Other communal activities such as ‘Waffle Wednesday’ or ‘Film Friday’ bring families together so they can share experiences. Located as close as possible to one of fourteen specialist children’s hospitals across the UK it means that families can be by their child’s bedside in a matter of moments so they can get the love and comfort they need. The Birmingham ‘House’ is located on St Mary’s Row, a short walk from the entrance to the hospital. It is fitted with everything needed to make you feel at home, including 66 en-suite bedrooms, sleeping up to four people, as well as communal kitchens, lounge and mundane-sounding facilities such as a laundry room and a kitchen - which allow families to maintain some degree of normality. House Manager, Libby Aston, says: “I have the best job ever as the power of community is our strength. We like to make everybody’s experience here the best experience ever and no two days are ever the same.”

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RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITY

Bikers provide joy for children hospitalised during Christmas B orn out of a partnership between well renowned oncologist, Dr Audrey Evans, fast-food giants McDonald’s and American gridiron football team, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Ronald McDonald House Charity has been providing families with somewhere to lay their heads at night while their child is in hospital, giving them free accommodation, for as long as it is needed, sparing them some of the financial issues that can arise during a prolonged hospital stay. This enables parents to stay as close as possible to the children and in doing so greatly reduce the need to travel, alleviating the stresses and costs it incurs. Recently celebrating its 25th anniversary in the UK (in 2014),

Where possible they also provide day services for families who either don’t require a room or who, due to demand, are unable to be accommodated. These services run from simply allowing them some space and time to rest away from the ward, to the extension of the laundry and cooking facilities and their inclusion in various RMHC events. Operations Specialist, Emma Rogers, says: “We actually see kids grow-up in the House – one set of twins have been here for the entirety of the first six years of their lives.” House Fundraiser, Natalie Wood, says: “Our aim is to raise £670,000 (which works out at £25 per head) annually, for the upkeep of Ronald McDonald House with ongoing events throughout the year, such as our flagship Gala Dinner at the I.C.C. in Birmingham, in October and major golf tournament at the Forest of Arden, in April. We have also organized a Challenge Event, in Mansfield, in May.” One group who provide endless support is the Bridgnorth Bikers

l Marcia McLaughlin, Managing Editor of The Phoenix with House Manager Libby Aston

l The Bridgenorth Bikers with their donation to Ronald McDonald House Charity just before Christmas

who raises money and awareness for various charities. Just before Christmas, they provided Ronald McDonald House Charity (Birmingham) large Christmas Toy Run to the House and the Birmingham Children’s Hospital, providing a cheque and an endless amount of toys and gifts for the children. Regular visitors to RMH, Biker, Stewart ‘Bluey’ Boggild, said: “This is the very least we can do

for Ronald McDonald House. Last Easter, we brought two van loaded with Easter eggs and presents for the children here on our Easter Egg Run. Just before Christmas, 200 bikers turned up to donate presents for the children.” Fellow-biker, Emily-Rose Sheaf, says: “We can’t do enough for the House. One of the things we have done for them is the ‘Dream Ride’ for a young boy,

Brandon, whose last wish was to ride on a motor-bike. 300 bikes turned-up for him and it was a day that his family still thanks us for to this day.” “This place is the best kept secret – which we want everyone to know about,” says Emma Rogers. Ronald McDonald House opened in 2009. Last year (2014) it provided a place to stay to 1,004 families.

l House Fundraiser, Natalie Wood

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 4

LJ’S COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

The Phoenix – January 2016

Women’s Aid celebrates 35 years

Years ago a project was born out of a women’s movement in the 1970’s to help women fleeing abuse. Would you be surprised to learn that the project had nowhere to put these women, and they had to squat in a building based on the South of the city. Although this was not official, housing officers and the police still referred woman who needed help to the same BSWA. Now known as Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid. It was the end of 80’a when the organisation developed a structured and secured funding for paid staff whilst relying heavily on volunteers. Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid have continued supporting women and children living free of violence and fear for 35 years. I caught up with one of the organisation managers Sally Dennis,

gencies from Jamaican visited the UK to engage the Diaspora and remind them of their importance. With 340,000 Jamaicans living in the UK who still have connection at home, which includes immigration; family matters and business. Therefore Diaspora UK welcomed the Jamaican agencies of Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency, Registrar General's Department, National Housing Trust, Land Agency, Jamaica Customs, Administrator General's Department, Companies Office of Jamaica, and newest agency is the Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies now regulators for charity

I asked her what were thoughts of their 35 years; whilst very delighted to be ‘of service’; that has helped so many women and families; Sally shared her real thought “I wish we were not here”. Sally envisaged this service was set up to help in the short term, and the fact that they are now 35 years old and still growing; confirms the sad reality that abuse of women is on the increase. As the world changes, so has the generations of women of all ages that need the service. This has seen BSWAID engage in with work around gang association, forced marriages, and sex exploitation. With social media, being the most popular way people connect today, it has now opened up another way people can be taken advantage of; no more so than young girls of today. BSWAID runs a Young Women’s IDVA (Independent, Domestic Violence Advisor Support Service).

This service is to support 13-18 year olds with issues around appropriate relationships. This work also includes work on domestic abuse, sexual health, self-esteem, self-harm, cyber bullying and sexual violence exploration of risk of safety. With funding received from Comic Relief to employ a specific worker to this role of working with 13-18 year olds, they then secured further funding Birmingham Community Safety Partnership to deliver their services to schools. Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid wanted to include their work with this age group as part of their 35th Anniversary. They commissioned the services of Birmingham City University and Birmingham City School of Acting led by director Hannah Phillips to raise awareness around issues 13-18 year olds face. On speaking to Hannah who has previously been commissioned to produce a piece of work around sex exploitation, she explained this production again formed part of the students’ performance degree. This production aptly titled ‘The Sext Generation’. Using song, spoken word, sharing researched facts and figures; to the invited schools and colleges, as well as professionals engaging with this age group, to act out a performance of a when a popular boy and a popular girl at school start dating, at his request the girl shares pictures of herself she thinks are between them; until the pictures goes viral. This was an outstanding per-

Thank You!

organisations. The agency started the whistle stop tour at the High Commissions office in London, the event would then come to Birmingham and be held at The Drum; before ending in Manchester. In Birmingham the events host were Jamaica Consulate Office of Wade Lyn and his assistant Monica Coke. Jamaica sent it's finest agency representatives, and they did not disappoint. They were informative and engaging and warmed well to the Birmingham diaspora community, who equally were impressed with their agencies

from home. Jamaica went one step further and sent their media mogul presenter of 'Both Sides of The Story' from Power 106.FM Dervon Malcolm to broadcast back to Jamaica bringing them the UK side of the story. One of the event sponsors were Digicel, with great news that their sim cards are once again available in the UK, along with their on going competition giveaways; confirming them as Jamaica's lead network provider which pleases the diaspora community. On the behalf of Diaspora UK, Thank you Jamaica.

LJ’s y t i n u omm Page C

formance worthy to grace any stage and presented in such a way, I am compelled to see them tour this production. Increasingly women are portrayed as sexual objects for mens sexual gratification, Page 3 may have gone from that famous tabloid, but look at what’s taken it place. It is all online at a price. Research shows boys are viewing women’s magazines from an early age, and now they can view online. They rely on these images and lyrics in songs for sex education. It is clear where, this education, has gone wrong. Here in lies the confusion, when entering relationships, girls want to be respected and not seen as objects., The concerns deepen as young people have text speak that parents and those caring for them do not understand, making it hard to protect them; until it is often too late. With almost every child armed with a smart phone or the latest

technical device, just how much do you know? Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid links with NSPCC who have guidance on ‘sexting’. NSPCC reports ‘sexting’ is more common than you think. Over 1,200 ChildLine counselling sessions mentioned ‘sexting’ in

Text Santa

his year saw Text Santa raise the highest total ever, of £8,383,361 as millions of viewers watched a memorable night on ITV. North Bromsgrove High pupils and their teachers were proud to do their part, the school based in Worcestershire raised £630. TEXT SANTA has become one of TV’s biggest donation charity’s with everyone from the Prime

Minister to big TV Icons such as Simon Cowell, great Entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson and every available pop star and soap star joining in. In five years of fundraising, Text Santa has now raised over £29,000,000. This year’s proceeds will directly benefit three charities Macmillan Cancer Support, Make-A-Wish® UK and Save the Children as 100% of all money raised going directly to the

2014/15. One thing we do know, is that social media by which, today’s young people live their lives, and technology, is growing faster than adults have time to keep up. Help is needed. Some network providers are taking steps to increase awareness around digital media and things parents and adults need to know. The Phoenix newspaper will seek to engage with these providers whilst working with, schools and colleges to, launch a new column to be called ‘The Next Generation’. Women’s Aid commented on the recent ‘landmark moment’ when the government released new laws that will see domestic abusers who control victims via social media and online, stopping short of violence to be brought to justice. This also changes the way cases where there is repeated controlling behaviour will be viewed. BSWAID are here to help. Do you have any concerns around what you’ve just read? Or do you need advice or want to be a volunteer for BWSAID? Contact them on 0808 800 0028 or visit www.bswaid.org.

charities. One of the highlights of the evening live on air, presenter Paddy McGuinness equalled the world record for the amount for the amount of Santa jumpers put on in one minute. He equalled the record of 11 to much delight. Donations can still be made via the following platforms: To give £5 text SANTA5 to 70760; to give £10 text SANTA10 to 70760; to donate by phone call 0300 123 6060; or donate online at itv.com, stv.tv or u.tv.until Janaua 3rd 2016. "Thank you" one and all, Santa is very please with his many helpers! Well done one all Santa is very pleased.

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 339 5885 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – January 2016

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AFTERNOON TEA WITH JACYNTH A IVEY

The Phoenix – January 2016

o o n n r Tea e t f A Wi t

h Jacynth A I v ey

Christian this was out of the question. My faith and yet again my determination won through, as the medical profession found an alternative procedure and I kept my womb.”

Have there been times when you have challenged God and your faith?

“Lots of times. My singleness was a real challenge that brought with it the challenge of not having children. I wanted to know why I hadn’t got a boyfriend. No one asked me out on a date, I was in my twenties, and thirties and still no one had asked me out. I began to question what’s wrong with me. I questioned my femininity, thought something was wrong with me. I questioned God as to why I wasn’t married. It knocked my confidence but through sheer determination I told myself that I am a child of God and that He has someone for me. The first person to ask me out was my husband, I was 44 years old.”

A tsunami came into my life and wiped everything away

he may not be famous, she may not be well known, but her story is a story of inspiration and

hope. A story of hope when we feel there is no hope, a story that transmits light when all around appears dark. What do you say when asked ‘who are you?’ Do you just give your name; perhaps you might add your position in the family, as wife, mother etc., perhaps you tell the person your job tittle? Today I am having afternoon tea with Sharon Clarke. A phenomenal woman of immense character and strength. A woman who most definitely knows who she is. I began our time together by asking ‘who are you?’ What an interesting question. First and foremost I know I am a child of God and because of that I’m a confident woman. Growing up I wasn’t always a confident person, I was very quiet and would often place myself in the background. I really don’t know where that came from because I wasn’t mistreated in any way, I just lacked confidence. As a youngster I wanted to be a nurse, I told myself I wasn’t intelligent enough but I wanted to be a nurse and in spite of the lack of confidence. I was a determined to achieve my goal and so I pushed myself to study. I was told I didn’t have the capacity or ability to study to be a nurse and was encouraged to do a secretarial course, I was told that would be best option for me. I remember respectfully saying, it doesn’t really matter what you say sir I’m going to be a nurse. His refusal to accept my career

choice made me even more determined to succeed.

Success wasn’t an easy road

I could sense that here in front of me was a woman who would say ‘I will find a way no matter what you say’ I asked her where that determination come from. “Going back to my childhood I was bullied at school, for silly little things. When I went to secondary school I made a conscious decision that I was not going to be bullied any more. I don’t know what happens but once I make up my mind to do something then I’m determined that I will do it one way or another. I can’t say the journey to become a registered nurse was easy, nor the road straight. I struggled and cried along the road to my destiny, but eventually I succeeded against the odds. I became the nurse that I wanted to be. My determination has spilled over in my spiritual life, because I know if I want to do something then I am determined and committed to it. The Word of God tells me ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ so I’m both determined and committed to succeed, even if the road is hard.”

What are some of the big challenges that you have faced as an adult?

“At a young age the medics wanted to remove my womb, I wasn’t married, nor did I have any children. Both of which were a real desire of mine. I had to stand on my faith and argue with the doctors, I told them they were not taking my womb to which they replied that if I wanted children then I needed to get pregnant soon, as a committed

Determination and commitment were the keys

I’m beginning to see and get the sense that your determination and commitment to your faith has got you this far. You’ve shared a couple of your life’s challenges, what more could you possibly endure? “Last year I noticed that my legs weren’t doing what they were supposed to do. I watched them for a couple of months but I knew something didn’t feel right. My GP referred me to a neurologist. The MRI scan came back clear however my husband noticed that my mobility was worsening. Further trips to the GP, and after a number of tests I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. My first thought was, am I going to end up in a wheel chair? I didn’t know how I would tell my husband, was it going to affect all our dreams? Our future and our wonderful marriage? All I could see was the wheelchair. My husband was an amazing tower of strength reminding me of our vows, in sickness and in health. Once again in the midst of my tears, my faith and Trust in God increased. I decided to let my situation go, and I choose to trust God, and when I finally finished crying an indescribable peace surrounded me, I no longer felt worried or stressed, I let go of it all.

Looking at this wonderful woman in front of me no one would ever know that she had been through the trials that she had been sharing. Her eyes and her smile would absolutely light up any dark corner.

As if that wasn’t enough…

Three days after learning that I have MS I received a letter from the breast clinic, asking me to come back following my routine mammogram. They saw little white spots on my left breast, nothing to worry about, but they wanted to do a biopsy to check. I thought nothing of it, just three weeks ago I had been diagnosed with MS and now here I was again

Jacynth A Ivey

being diagnosed this time with breast cancer. This came completely out of the blue. It was like a tsunami that came into my life and wiped everything out. I went back to that place, saying to God I choose to trust you. I had grade three cancer and needed a mastectomy, it was so difficult to comprehend that the doctors wanted to take my breast off. My breast was removed and reconstructed in the same operation. I am so thankful that I don’t need chemotherapy or radiotherapy. As Sharon tells her story there is an undeniable peace that flows from her. She is an incredibly

strong woman, a beautiful woman and a true inspiration. When life decides to throw up obstacles and barriers, or take you down a road that you would rather not go, you have a choice about how you respond. Sharons story demonstrates her strength, her determination and commitment to persevered through life’s trails and tribulations How many of us can truly say that we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope. Sharon demonstrates such hope.

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The Phoenix – January 2016

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

P New CEO for WCCC

arwickshire C o u n t y Cricket Club has appointed Neil Snowball as new Chief Executive. He will commence the role in January 2016, replacing outgoing CEO Colin Povey. Neil is currently Chief Operating Officer of England Rugby 2015 Ltd, the Organising Committee for Rugby World Cup 2015. He was Head of Sport Operations at the London Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and was an Executive Director at Goldman Sachs for eight years. He is a lifelong cricket sup-

porter, and has been involved with Guildford Cricket Club for many years, as a player, coach and administrator, including three years as Chairman of the Club and of the Guildford Cricket Festival. Neil also has a long association with Surrey County Cricket Club and in 2012 was invited to be a member of the Surrey CCC Business Advisory Group, and also served on the Surrey Championship committee. Warwickshire CCC Chairman, Norman Gascoigne, said: "Neil was the outstanding candidate for the role. He will bring a wealth of relevant experience as the Club strives for greater success on and off the field.”

wC has announced a UKwide initiative to advise and support organisations and authorities on devolution and regional economic growth. Led by Stephanie Hyde, PwC Executive Board head of regions, the Devo Delivery Network has more than 350 local and central government experts and specialist advisors spread across PwC’s 31 UK regional offices. The Devo Delivery Network draws on PwC’s international and national experience in advising public and private sector organisations on regional economic strategy, tax, finance-raising and public sector modernisation and reform. PwC is already working with a number of local and combined authorities, including advising the West Midlands Combined Authority Programme Office since April this year. Announcing the initiative, PwC head of regions, Stephanie Hyde said that the acceleration of devolution has fuelled demand for a single source for specialist advice and guidance: “Over the past five years, we’ve seen devolution from central government to local regions rise up the political agenda; over the next five, devolution will begin to drive the UK growth agenda. “But the very nature of devolution is that there is no one-size-fits-all

Page 7

PwC launches new support network in the Midlands l Matt Hammond, Regional Chairman of PwC in the Midlands blueprint. Regional settlements are determined by a combination of local need, the strength of the case and Westminster’s confidence in the ability of local politicians, citizens and business to deliver. Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) indicate that regional cities including Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle, and Greater Manchester have seen improved GVA growth, but the prosperity gap between London and the regions remains. PwC’s recent Good Growth for Cities report set out the potential role devolution can play in unleashing the potential of UK plc and

rom a simple Facebook post charitable project’ Helping Handbags Worldwide’ has fuelled the imagination and generosity of women in the UK and across the globe. Formed in October 2015, the emotive image of a woman's open handbag with a message to donate to a homeless woman has sparked an outpouring of love and action. Within minutes of it being posted numerous messages of support followed and so began a national and international campaign began. From London to the Midlands, Wales to Scotland, Australia to Denmark; Helping Handbags bloomed. In the space of 10 days, it consequently had hubs around the UK which have been set up to help with the logistics and organisation. These hubs gather women to donate bags work with local women’s groups and set up vital collection points. The idea is simple - fill unwanted, unloved handbags with snacks, sanitary and hygiene products which are then collected regionally. What really caught the imagination is that it deals specifically with women’s issues; such as the menstrual cycle - something that is often forgotten about. Whilst being busy donating clothes, sleeping bags and food, women’s natural needs, like sanitization for homeless women can be overlooked. HMW West Midlands Coordin-

closing the prosperity gap between regional cities and London. The PwC Devo Delivery Network follows last year’s City Growth Commission report, Unleashing Metro Growth which concluded that devolving powers from Whitehall to city regions could boost economic output in the UK’s 15 largest metropolitan areas by £79bn per year around 5% of GDP. Matthew Hammond, regional chairman of PwC in the Midlands said: “The West Midlands is a region that works together collaboratively across Local Authority and LEP boundaries, and while councils are

undoubtedly under financial pressures, there has never been a better opportunity for local leaders to really deliver for their local communities and economy. “Our team at PwC in the Midlands has been advising the West Midlands Combined Authority Programme Office over the last six months, but negotiating a devolution settlement is just the beginning. Delivering successful devolution is a very different challenge that demands very different skills, and this new Devo Delivery Network will support local players in driving the economy of the region further forward."

Helping Handbags Worldwide helping women’s everyday needs ator, Santosh Kumari, says:” Helping Handbags Worldwide is an initiative that seeks to highlight the number of homeless people, particularly women. In transcending cultures, religion, gender and all other manmade divisions we also deal with periods, which are of course naturally occurring hence the call for sanitary towels to be included in bags. With collections soon closing we are focusing more extensively on distributing donations and request that organisations contact us directly about the number of bags they would like.” A very emotive, humbling and amazing project to have been part of; they have already distributed over three thousand bags in the West Midlands alone and are looking to continue with it in 2016.

“To quote my lovely friend Brenda Dempsey, who started this whole journey,” says Santosh; "This is just the beginning!" For more information, go to: www.facebook.com/groups/HelpingHandbagsWorldwide

l Santosh Kumari

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 8

ENTERTAINMENT

BIGScreen

www.streetcredmagazine.com

REVIEW

wORDS by antony brown

that good. First of all, we have to acknowledge JJ Abrams, who has absolutely directed his ass off with this movie. You can actually see it was made by a person with a deep seeded love for Star Wars and every single frame oozes with that love. From the opening scene (more on that later) to the re-introduction of the Millennium Falcon to the action-heavy finale, this is a pureblooded Star Wars adventure, the likes of which we haven’t really seen on the big screen since 1983’s Return of the Jedi. Back to that opening scene; talk about coming back with a bang! The scene in question involves a village being brutally attacked by Stormtroopers. We meet some characters, some dialogue is spoken and the scene ends with the complete massacre

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens

he year is 1977 and a film by an up-andcoming director by the name of George Lucas was about to be released. Plagued by problems during production, with re-writes and a ballooning budget causing distress at 20th Century Fox, everyone – including George Lucas – had already written the movie off as a disaster that would completely flop at the box-office. Apparently, Lucas had such little faith in the movie that he skipped the World Premiere and instead went on holiday to Hawaii with

The Phoenix – January 2016

his good friend Steven Spielberg. Fast-forward to 2015 and Star Wars is the biggest, most successful and instantly recognisable franchise of all time. This brings us to December, 2015 and the release of the newest episode in the Star Wars saga – Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. Now, forgive me if you feel I’m over-selling it a little here, but imagine everything you wanted from this movie, then throw in a whole bunch of other stuff that didn't even cross your mind and then you'd arrive at The Force Awakens. It’s

of every captive villager. It’s pretty dark stuff, but it’s a bold opening and one that immediately has you hooked. From that moment on, the movie kicks in to high-gear and never really stops for breathe. One of the biggest concerns many fans had going in to this movie was being introduced to new characters that wouldn't capture our hearts as much as the likes of Luke, Han, Obi-Wan, Leia, Chewy, R2D2 and C-3PO did... but we were wrong. By the end of the movie, it feels like these characters have been a part of this universe far longer than the few hours you’ve been watching them. It's a phenomenal achievement and a true testament to the actors and actresses. British actor John Boyega is instantly likeable and impossibly charming as Finn – the Stormtrooper with a conscience. While he spends most of the movie as the comic-relief, spouting off hilarious quips and oneliners to win our hearts, he is also heroic and brave, never flinching when things get serious. The stunning British actress, Daisy Ridley, is an absolute revelation as the feisty, yet quietly tortured Rey. Having only appeared in a few small-scale British dramas, it’s truly shocking to see how confident and assured of a performer she is. Ridley looks as if she’s a veteran of the business and if her performance in this movie is anything to go by; she’s going to be huge. Oscar Isaacs is also great as the cockyin-a-charming-way X-Wing pilot, Poe Dameron. His role isn’t a huge one, but it’s a very memorable one. Rounding off our new band of heroes is loveable droid, BB-8. It’s

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

January 10 Future 22 Cancer Bats 23 Eradikator (CD launch party) 23 Quadrophenia Night 26 MUTEMATH 29 Minus the Bear 30 Massive Attack 30 Awake by Design

BIRMINGHAM INSTITUTE

January 06 Alien Ant Farm 15 Jamie Lawson 16 MC Nutcracka’s Spectre Birthday Ball 19 Jeremih 20 Daughter 25 The Temperence Movement 27 Jeremy Loops 29 Mayday Parade

TOWN HALL

January 10 We’re Going on a Bear Hunt: Relaxed Performance 15 Henry Rollins: Charmingly Obstinate European Tour 2016 16 New English Orchestra and singers 40th Birthday Celebration Concert 17 Dr Martin Luther King Celebration - Part 6 23 The Story of Ronnie Scott’s 30 The Classic Rock Show 31 Diva Wedding Fayre’s

amazing how a robot we cannot understand can capture an audience’s heart. It happened with R2D2 and it’s happening again with BB-8. I defy you not to fall in love with him. Now, no other new character has divided opinion quite as much as villain, Kylo Ren. Many have complained that he is too emotional and that they wanted something closer to the sinister composure of Darth Vader, but my question to those people is “Why?” Darth Vader is a one-ofa-kind and trying to emulate him would be a foolish task. Other fans have expressed their disappointment at Ren removing his helmet, revealing nothing more than a fresh-faced young man. With this much praise, you’d be forgiven if you’re sitting there thinking “The Force Awakens must be perfect!” but it isn’t. It’s difficult to ignore the fact that many of the plot elements from this movie have been borrowed from previous entries. There’s a droid with important information, a bad guy who wears all black, a young person coming to know the truth behind their unusual powers and yes...another Death Star; only this time, its way bigger. Size matters, people!

SYMPHONY HALL

January 02 The Glenn Miller Orchestra 03 CBSO 2015-16 - The Magic of Vienna 07 CBSO 2015-16 - Henry V 14 CBSO 2015-16 - Scheherazade 16 Musical Picnic 16 Scheherazade 17 Black Dyke Band 19 KS3 Schools’ Concerts 19 Spend an Evening with Chris Hadfield 21 CBSO 2015-16 - Serenade to Music 22 KS3 Schools’ Concerts 23 Sax In The City: The Notebenders 23 Rebecca Ferguson - Lady Sings The Blues Tour 2016 28 Moscow State Circus 29 CBSO 2015-16 - Friday Night Classics: Smooth Classics 30 Anton & Erin 31 Nigel Kennedy

However, if you look at the bigger picture, this is only the beginning of a new series of movies, so there’s plenty of time to tread new ground. Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens is consistently fun, yet it's not afraid to get dark when it needs to. The stakes are high, the action is visceral and intense, the story is engrossing and it's full to the brim of shocking twists and turns that will absolutely blow you away and I truly mean that. It manages to be brilliantly nostalgic without suffocating itself in the shadow of what came before it; striking a perfect balance between old and new, meaning lifelong fans will love it and newer fans will still be able to engage with it. Equal parts fun, silly, action-packed, frightening, intense and heartbreaking, The Force Awakens is the Star Wars sequel fans have been waiting for. After already shattering almost every box-office record imaginable, Episode VII is destined to be one of the biggest, most successful movies of all time and to be quite honest, it deserves it. The Force Awakens is a phenomenal first step on what could be a long and wonderful new journey to a galaxy far, far away...

30 Vitality Netball Superleague Super Saturday

NEC

January 14-17 Performance Car Show 14-17 Autosport International

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

January 07-24 Battle of the Bands 16 Andrew Lawrence: Uncensored 23 Nahko and Medicine For The People 26 Isy Suttie: The Actual One 27 Voodoo Glow Skulls 29 Evil Scarecrow 30 Flash of The Blade

BARCLAYCARD ARENA

January 15 Kevin Hart 17 BBL Cup Final 22-24 Strictly Come Dancing Live 27 The Libertines 30 Jason Derulo 31 TNA Wrestling

GENTING ARENA

January 19 The Corrs 23-24 The Monster Energy Arenacross Tour

l Jason Derulo come to Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena on the 30th

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 339 5885 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – January 2016

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SPECIAL REPORT

A Whole Day Celebration 5th Anniversary T

l The Award Winning Birmingham Community Gospel Choir performing during The Phoenix Newspaper’s 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation Ceremony. Photography by Jesse Gerald of JG Photography

Gala Dinner & Awards Presentation Ceremony

he Phoenix Newspaper is celebrating five years of serving communities with positive, informative and objective news. To mark this milestone we had four events in one day; all unique in their own individual style. Already established as one of Britain’s’ leading national newspapers being able to cut across cultures and celebrating excellence in our com-

munity. Sandwell was the chosen borough to host the first of a predicted annual celebration. The Bethel Convention Centre in West Bromwich was the venue chosen for its unique setting and ambiance. The main sponsor of the Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary was fastfood giants, McDonald’s (Sandwell) along with Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited.

Saturday 5th December 2015

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The Phoenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 2016

Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited ONE OF THE FIRST PUNJABI/INDIAN INSURANCE UNDERWRITERS IN THE UK

Providing Insurance Solutions For The Last 44 Years

CONGRATULATIONS FOR 5 YEARS! Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited is proud to sponsor The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation, and wishes them a hearty congratulations on celebrating their 5th Anniversary. We hope you all have a great evening and enjoy the festivities! As a long established family run business, we at Crownsway are passionate about the service we provide to all our clients. We are able to provide insurance as a Commercial Combined to suit your business requirements or as a package where all your business insurance is met under one policy. For further information, friendly advice or a quotation, please contact a member of our team who will be happy to help

Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited DJS HOUSE, 183 HOLYHEAD ROAD, BIRMINGHAM, B21 0BD Tel: 0121 554 3566/9788 Fax: 0121 523 2992 Email: info@crownsway.co.uk Website: www.crownsway.co.uk Authorised & Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

The Phoenix – January 2016

A Message From The Managing Editor

would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your kind support over the past 5 years and the The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary day long Celebrations. We attempted and executed four events in one day in order to give our audience a bit of what can be achieved if we all work together for the same goal. If you tried and fail at a task, do not blame your tutor, life is all about taking responsibility for your own actions. We have had overwhelming support from all sectors of the community, locally, nationally and internationally., over the past 5 years with the passion and intention to continue for years to come. Personally, this has been a remarkable journey for me so this is my way of showing re-

spect and my testimony to the Almighty God for giving me the opportunity to provide a newspaper with that promotes Unity community cohesion and well being with a positive message, being able to cut across cultures and be picked up and read by a mainstream audience. The 5th Anniversary is a very important milestone as we celebrate the foundations laid over the last 5 years, simular to the growth of the Bamboo shoot that grows deep down in the earth, it is never up rooted whatever storm comes its way. I see The Phoenix as a young bamboo plant that has grown beneath the surface, securing itself before blossoming into a vehicle that is Positive informative and objective, giving hope to not just one community but rather the community as a whole.

Bad news sells, but good news comes free with The Phoenix Newspaper in print and online. As with anything in life , it is the hard work that you put in that makes what you do a success. We must remember that the younger generation needs to be inspired we owe it to them to give them a platform of hope. Creating role models and a positive atmosphere that will allow our young people to feel good about themselves is our responsibility. The awards are by the people, for the people, and voted on by the people and why not, its has been one of the most inspireing journey shared doing this event, I thank you for your input. We have been overwelmed with the support as the awards showcase recognised the

l Marcia McLaughlin, Founder & Managing Editor of The Phoenix Newspaper many different talents that are in abundance within our communities. The winners on the night are truly deserving of the awards and recognition as we

look forward to seeing you next year 2016 for the 6th anniversary Gala Dinner & awards Presentation Nomination starts again in March 2016. There will be

A Message From Our Sponsor I t was one of the most joyous evenings that we enjoyed as a family on the 5th December 2015 for the 5th Anniversary celebration of The Phoenix Newspaper with the Royal King of Ghana, distinguished guests and a fantastic multicultural audience. Our heartiest gratitude goes to a lovely and a very humble lady Marcia the owner of The Phoenix Newspaper and the entire team who organised this wonderful event for the full day mixed with the multicultural atmosphere and the awareness in society and unity. I personally appreciate the thoughts of a very compassionate and hardworking lady Marcia to

whom I would like to thank as she inspired my hard work for being a wife, a mother a business woman and devoting myself for the needs of the community at the same time. Climbing each step of my life was not easy and seemed a challenge for me each time I climbed. However had it not been for these challenges that I succeeded with pride I would have not achieved the results of my hard work this evening. In hind sight, with my lifetime experience of 45 years in business arena, these achievements are only realised with hard work, determination, dedication and the courage to confront all the challenges that are faced. The Phoenix Newspaper put

together a prestige event which bought together communities of all cultures under the one roof, recognising their hard work and appreciating the success within their field of work. This was a celebration for everyone, the 5th anniversary of The Phoenix Newspaper and the nominees as well as the support by the public and associates in attending. My support for The Phoenix will continue as this is one newspaper that publishes positive stories and people together as one. I have no doubt that The Phoenix Newspaper will continue to be a success in the foreseeable future.

l Dr Saroj Duggal, Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited

A Message From Our Sponsor A t McDonald’s we take great pride in our support for the communities we

serve. Whether it is support for local events, sponsoring grassroots football teams or helping to keep our neighbourhoods clean for everyone to enjoy, we are committed to being a hub for the community. As a McDonald’s franchisee for the last 15 years, with three restaurants in West Bromwich

employing nearly 300 local people, I am committed to investing in the Sandwell community which is why I am delighted to be sponsoring this year’s The Phoenix Newspaper’s 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Presentation. The Phoenix Newspaper is always a source of balanced, positive news for the area and I’m a big fan of the way that they highlight the vibrancy, diversity and talent our community has to offer.

So, when they approached me to support this event, I was only too happy to oblige. On behalf of McDonald’s I want to extend my congratulations to all of the winners of the evening’s awards. You are all fantastic role models for this community and I hope that others see your achievements and dedication, and take the opportunity to follow the fine examples you set.

l Paul Ramsey, McDonald’s Franchisee

the inclusion of a few extra categories, so if you missed out last year its your time to Rise With The Phoenix!

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The Phoenix – January 2016

A day connecting

communities from right across the Commonwealth

hoenExpo2015 was held at the Bethel Convention Centre, it was a day for celebrating Connecting Communities & Community Cohesion, including Health & Wellbeing, Community Safety, Communication & Education, and Travel & Tourism. In the presence of Royal dignitaries, High Commissioners, Consular members and other special guests, the day-long celebration was officially launched with a special ribbon cutting and a royal blessing by very Special Guest, HRH Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak, the Aduana Head of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti in Ghana, with Ms Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL Deputy Lord Lieutenant to Her Majesty the Queen. HRH led dignitaries along the exhibition – to the vibrant sights and sounds of King G Mall and the

Dhol Blasters, before the tropical sounds of the Jamma Steelpan filling the air to get everyone into the right mood. The Tewahedo Drummers, in the presence of HRH, brought their own unique take on the African ancestors inspired Junkanoo dance routine, a street parade with music, dance, and costume - derived from slave master and trader, John Canoe, whose slaves were not allowed much freedom so would hide in the bushes when they had the chance - dancing and making music while covered in costumes that they made from various paints that they made and leaves that they found. The inaugural PhoenExpo 2015, was a business exhibition which provided the ideal opportunity for businesses to raise their profile by showcasing their products and services to an audience of Phoenix readers and a ‘Family Fun’ day,

which included refreshments and entertainment for all. A hub of thriving activities, with an eclectic mix of businesses and organizations, big and small, showcased their wares to the general public, with international food magnate, Fenky Jane Handmade Gourmet Patties, providing her services to feed the attendees with some of the most sumptuous cocktail patties ever and spreading the love of authentic Jamaican patties throughout. Despite strong competition from local Premier League team, West Bromwich Albion – they were playing at home to Tottenham Hotspur – there was no stopping the stream of people who turned out to be part of what was a great day for The Phoenix Newspaper, its readers, sponsors and stall holders.

The Phoenix – January 2016

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The Phoenix – January 2016

The Jamaican Grand M

ringing the spirit of Christmas, in Jamaica, to the UK, the renowned Grand Market was brought to life at the Bethel Convention Centre with the opportunity for people from all walks of life was able to exhibit and sell their wares just in time for the big day. Seen as the most exciting day for children in the Christmas season, the Grand Market is where ‘Country Comes To Town’ and that ethos was set out to be repeated here, for the first time, in the UK. Also known as the Christmas Market, the Grand Market is probably the most exciting day in the Christmas season on the island where people dress in their best clothes and travel together, to the Market, to sell goods, whilst having fun in doing so.

It dates back to slavery, when slaves would get all dressed up and meet at convenient locations where they could socialize. Other slaves would sell all kinds of homemade items, like straw hats and baskets made from bamboo. They entertained themselves by singing and playing drums which were made from the the skin of animals like goats and cattle, despite what they were going through they still manage to have some fun. The Tewahedo Drummers, in the presence of HRH, provided their inspirational take on the African slave-inspired Junkanoo dance routine, fit for a King The pouring of libation, by HRH, heralded the launch of PhoenExpo 2015, as he blessed the event and heralded a day set fair for vendors to sell everything from Caribbean food, cultural

The Phoenix – January 2016

Market ‘Comes To Town’ artifacts and traditional clothing. Other stalls included Leave it to Esme, Hector Shakes from Reach One Teach one the official organizers of the Jamaica Grand Market for 2015 only, with his beautifully cooked and presented food for the soul, information centres, health and wellbeing, arts and crafts, sweet stalls, books and more were set fair for a day of buying, selling and general exhibiting. There is much room for improvement and we have listened and taken on board some of the ideas our supporters have put forward for next year. All stall holders who exhibited in the Jamaica Grand Market this year will be invited to next years 2016 exhibition as a VIP guest stall holder compliments of The Phoenix Newspaper for believing in us and coming out in full support.

The devotion and passion showed by all for a very heart felt part of every Jamaican born childhood experience. Look out for date time and venue for the next year’s event. We would like to thank Hector Shakes and Edwina King of Reach One Teach One for bravely taking on the organizing of the 1st Jamaica Grand Market. They must be commended for rising to the challenge. They are an organization that is dedicated to supporting youth development and charitable work in Jamaica. The organization is still looking for support so please continue to send in any computers desks clothes or any item that can be used to support the organization and its charitable work for young people in their after school activities.

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The Phoenix – January 2016

A Message From HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak

n the behalf of the ADUANA clan in Kyebi NSUTA ASHANTI Ghana, I take time out to thank the founder and managing editor of the Phoenix Newspaper in the UK. In 1997 the elders gave you your ASHANTI name AMA (girl born on Saturday) AGYEMANG (defender of the community) which you have truly truly lived up to. You and your newspaper has uplifted your community especially the youths whom are our future tomorrow. To come to Birmingham to be apart of your grand launch and meet the Jankunu group of Maskerade as we call it in Africa is truly reviving our

culture and roots for the people of Birmingham and the world to see. And for recognising the importance of us as a people to regain our culture so they can once again have identity of who we are and where we come from. I could see the spirit of Nanni the maroon in you on the day. I would love to see our brothers and sisters in Jamaica start learning the TWI language alongside French, Spanish and Latin in schools as part of the curriculum in Jamaica. We have Maroon town in Jamaica which trace their roots to the Ashanti in Ghana and also our national hero and heroine in Jamaica has TWI names Kojo and Nanni which we can find in

the ASHANTI language (TWI). I also welcome you to my home town in ASHANTI Kingdom in Ghana and fully crown you as one of the Ohemaa (queen mother) of the Ashanti. So as you have desire to build a community centre for the youths and people of my home town in ASHANTI Ghana so you can make your mark in the continent also You have proven over and over to live up to your name given by the elders of the town AGYEMANG (defender of the community) we will give you the land you need to build your Community Centre. May Oyankupong (God) and Nananum (all the ancestors) bless your days til old age. Your name will never be

forgotten just like when water touches the ground it makes its mark. We say in TWI medowase paa (thank you very much) and see you next year in Ghana. Yours sincerely HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana hene of KWAKYE Dida NSUTA ASHANTI. Anyone who wants to find their roots, needs spiritual help, traditional wedding or naming ceremonies, blessings for self and business or lectures and teachings about our traditions, you can contact me on my UK mobile 07894505740.

A Message from the Representative of Her Majesty The Queen’s Lord Lieutenant

Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL

Owner of Diamond Travel, and Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands

l Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL

congratulate The Phoenix Newspaper for its 5 years as a successful and dynamic enterprise. I would also commend Ms Marcia McLaughlin and her team for their vision, hard work and determination to create a successful publication that has served as an inspiration for the community, local, national and international. The Phoenix Newspaper is a genuine example of the kind of entrepreneurship that is important within the Diaspora. Its success has been and will continue to be an

encouragement to our young people, providing them with positive examples of what can be achieved and opening their eyes to the possibilities of advancement that exist

beyond the playing field. My warmest congratulations to all tonight’s awardees for the significant contributions they have made to the community.

Happy 5th Anniversary and best wishes for successful and enjoyable evening Beverly Lindsay OBE, OD, DL

The Phoenix – January 2016

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The Phoenix – January 2016

Glitzy Gala D Anniversar

he black tie Gala Dinner, in support of Acorns Children’s Hospice and the African-Caribbean Leukemia Trust (A.C.L.T.), kicked off the evening’s events which was filmed by BOOM TV and Big Centre TV as guests, from all across the UK and communities across the globe included gathered. As the Master of Ceremonies led the guests, Her Majesty’s Representative, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL and HRH Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak, the Aduana Head of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti were at the head of the dignitaries along the red carpet, for a drinks reception where Ms. Lindsay highlighted the importance of The Phoenix, the huge impact it has made throughout the past 5 years and her gratitude for the support it has given her and her business Johnson JohnRose, Communications Specialist from the Caribbean T o u r i s m Organisation, who came in direct from Barbados was the keynote speaker, as well as Dr. Tony Vendryes, founder of the Vendryes Wellness Center headquartered in Montego Bay, author and radio presenter on Power FM in Jamaica, who both

spoke about the connection with The Phoenix Newspaper which has opened so many doors for Caribbean islands as holiday and trade destinations, as well as flagging up the impact that the newspaper has made throughout the UK, the Caribbean and further afield. As a show of the strength of the Commonwealth other speakers included: Satinder Kaur Taunque OBE DL Her Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Keith Stokes-Smith, Chairman of the Birmingham Commonwealth Association, Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh OBE, Chair of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha, Garry Peal, Business Development Manager at Birmingham City Council, Deborah Leary OBE, Director of Commonwealth Businesswomen’s Network, Olusegun Dosumu, Professor at Newman University Birmingham and Paul Harrison of PK Media, who all highlighting the massive importance the newspaper has made on their businesses. During the dinner, after the guests were seated, they were serenaded by the exquisite Birmingham Community Gospel Choir, along with performances by Melika Queely and Ronald Dewit. Also present were Syed Ahmed Maroof, Consul General of Pakistan representing Pakistan High Commissioner, Costas Petrouis representing the Cyprus High Commission, Bangladesh High Commission representative, Nadeem Qadir, and Mr. Golden Neswiswi and Mr Oarabile

The Phoenix – January 2016

Dinner Marks ry In Style Motlaga both representing the South Africa High Commission. Michael and Grace Sturridge - the parents of Liverpool and England striker, Daniel - attended as founders of the Sturridge Foundation charity which supports recreation and education activities for children and young people. Former Aston Villa, Rangers and Liverpool England star, Mark Walters, Amrik Singh Ubhi, Centre Director at the Nishkam Civic Association, Councillor Paulette Hamilton added to the impressive list of dignitaries present, along with our very own Councillor Jackie Taylor. Following the dinner was the part of the evening that everyone had been waiting for, the Awards Presentation. Everyone moved into the main auditorium, joined by those who had come just for the awards ceremony, and there was an audible buzz in the air as the Dhol Blasters returned, taking the main stage and welcoming everyone in the only way they knew how. Following the Dhol Blasters, Gospel Central, with Mark Dwayne and Sticky Toffee Dancers produced an amazing performance that got everyone revved up and ready to go with ‘Every Praise’, setting the tone for the evening. The awards were punctuated by performances from Camara Fearon, Daniel Riley, Lucy Tennyson, Bianca Martin, Miss Aliyah and Peter Spence, as well as the fantastic Flame Lily Arts, as the best of Birmingham and beyond were recognised by the

people for their hard work and acheievements. This year’s raffle prize was donated by the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, Shen Yun Performing Arts, representing the old Chinese custom and style of dance. They are on their world tour in 2016 due in Birmingham at the ICC on March 5-6 and chose The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary celebrations for a very special showing. It was won by the A.C.L.T. which was one of the charities supported on the night. Shen Yun raised almost £400 on the night to split between both charities along with £10 from every dinner ticket sold to be shared equally with both charities It was a very charitable atmosphere on the night that made sure both Acorns Children’s Hospice and A.C.L.T. will benefit from the glitz and glamour that also marked 5 years of The Phoenix Newspaper and the representation and celebration of the Commonwealth and connecting of communities both locally, nationally and internationally. We can’t wait to bring you the best of our communities in style again in 2016, and we look forward to seeing you all there again!

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The Phoenix – January 2016

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The Phoenix – January 2016

The Phoenix Newspaper G

Business & Enterprise Award Cleo Morris presented by

Dr Duggal of Crownsway Insurance

Lifetime Contribution to Music Award Love Injection presented by

Miss Lily’s Flowers

Outstanding Commitment to Education Award

South And City College presented by

DJ Countryman

Beauty & Lifestyle Award Beauty In U presented by

Ken Grey of Ginger Tree Boutique

Best Place of Worship Award The Rock Church presented by Jacynth Ivey

Special Recognition Award Rose Thompson presented by

Paul Ramsey of McDonald’s

Best Eatery Award Mellows Catering presented by

Deborah Leary OBE

Sports Achiever Award Rushian Hepburn-Murphy

presented by

Michael Sturridge of the Sturridge Foundation

Special Achievement Award Clint Dunkley presented by

Paul Ramsey of McDonald’s

The Phoenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 2016

Gala Award Winners 2015

Best Retailer Award Hatman

Community Outreach/Volunteer Award Mykal Brown presented by

Neena Gill MEP

presented by

Sarah Jane Hamilton of Fenky Janes Patties

Best Radio Presenter/DJ Award Little Richie presented by

Charles Small of The Drum

Lifetime Achievement Award Winners

Lifetime Achievement Award Willard Wigan presented by

Gary Hudson

Lifetime Achievement Award Dr Saroj Duggal presented by

Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL

Lifetime Achievement Award Lloyd Blake

presented by Johnson JohnRose of the

CTO

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The Phoenix – January 2016

Managing Editors Special Awards

Peoples Award Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL

True Veteran Award Wayne Irie

presented by

Connecting Communities Paul Harrison

Employee of the Year Daniel Riley

Best Marketing Concept Sarah Jane Hamilton

HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak

arcia, I am so very proud of the work that you have done over many years to develop the Phoenix Newspaper into the quality newspaper it is today. I regret I was unable to join

you on this very auspicious occasion, but I want to really extend my gratitude to you for this Special Community Person award. I look forward to receiving it in Jamaica, congratulations once again, and God bless you.

Special Community Person Award Camille Ade-John

would like to thank Phoenix Newspaper for awarding me with this prestigious award. I am humbled to be the recipient of “Young Entrepreneur of the year”. Being presented with the award came as a total surprise but was received with of an overwhelming amount of gratitude. What I have achieved this year could not be done without the inspirational people I have around me. I would additionally like to take this moment to say a special thank you to my

Young Entrepreneur Award Jelani Brown

Mum, Dad, siblings, extended family members, Aneka Salmon-Ryan, Jahmi Williams, Andrew Maye, Derek Webley MBE, Patrick Warde, Audrey Bathley, my friends and colleagues; your continuous support, advice and guidance have inspired me to be the man I am today. 2016 is promising to be a very busy year. We will continue to achieve in producing high quality events, marketing campaigns and live club/ theatre events in venues near you.

Humanitarian Award Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh OBE presented by

Ninder Johal, Black Country Chamber President

Citation by Ninder Johal

e is the first Sikh in 2012 to receive the Papal Knighthood of St Gregory the Great in recognition of his dedicated work for Roman Catholic and Sikh relations, and for his commitment to inter-faith dialogue on peace amongst people of all faiths. Very recently made an OBE in recognition of his unrelenting work over 40 years to promote world peace.

Incredibly articulate individual, and a retired civil and structural engineerwith 27 years of practice across 3 continents in the fields of engineering, town planning and housing. He is passionate about empowering individuals and organisations with common religious values through selfless service, education and exposure. Ladies and Gentleman, the Humanitarian Award goes to Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE Bishop Dr Neville Wolliston flew over from Connecticut, USA in support of Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh’s Humanitarian Award, following their meeting last year during the Bishop’s return to the city. The relationship formed between the Bishop and the Chairman was one of respect, humility and unity of faith.

The Phoenix – January 2016

Messages of Acceptance Cleo Morris

t is a pleasure to acknowledged for such a prestigious award such as The Phoenix Award for Business And Enterprise, even more so, it is an honour to win to win it. I would firstly like to thank my parents and two sisters, Natalie and Cheyenne. Never forgetting to mention my close friends for their love, support and encouragement throughout this business journey. I have seen my company, Marketingmaker LTD, grow and develop at a rate

that has exceeded my expectations in such a short time. My vision with this company was to take my passion for marketing and make it accessible to businesses of all sizes. Winning The 2015 Business and Enterprise Award has topped off what has already been a successful year for the company. I look forward to doing more of the same in 2016 with the same vigour and determination that has taken us to this point thus far.

Rushian Hepburn-Murphy

hank you for having me at your awards. I would like to say thanks to all the people who voted for me this is most appreciated.

I would like to thank my family for the support and motivation which has helped me to achieve what I have so far. It's just the start! this journey has not

NTCG The Rock

n behalf of NTCG The Rock I would like to thank the Phoenix news paper and all who saw fit to nominate us as a great place of worship in Birmingham. We realise that three things create a great church experience our welcome

our worship our word. We are a valuable place to experience worship preaching and education that has African Caribbean and British cultural distinction. We have become a great place for families to settle and grow our ministry are continually evolving to meet

finished I still have a long way to go. I'm going to keep working hard to keep achieving My motto Dream it Belive it Achieve! Rushian

the needs of our day. The award is a testimony of great team work driven by our mission from God to share the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. We give all the honour to our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ God bless Bishop Jonathan Jackson

Charity of the Year Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation We caught up with SACMHF with Trophy Sponsor Clint Dunkley of More Secure Ltd to award them their trophy.

Mellows Rose Thompson M Catering

feel so blessed to announce that Mellow's Catering has been awarded Best Eatery 2015. I just wanna say a big thank you to everyone who voted for us, and to everyone that has supported us throughout the years. Big shout to my team without you lot we wouldn't have that excellent service we provide, also I wanna say a big thank you to the Phoenix Newspa-

per team for putting on such a wonderful occasion. Most of all I want to thank God for blessings me with this gift/ talent that I love doing and will keep on doing. What a way to finish off a very busy and exciting year for the business. I want to dedicate this award to my son Reece Rawlins hope I'm doing him proud in heaven..Thank you all once again.

any thanks to Phoenix Newspaper and all those who kindly nominated me for the Special Achievement Recognition Award. I accepted the honour on behalf of all my supporters; including the wonderful team of selfless volunteers and staff at BME Cancer Communities and my family. All made sacrifices to allow me to fulfil what I believe is my purpose in life, i.e. to raise Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) cancer awareness, reduce cancer inequalities and save lives. It was black men’s unacceptable higher death rates from prostate cancer that drove me to write the Hear Me Now Prostate Cancer reports. HMN is now a

national campaign, influencing positive national change for many men. It was both humbling and an honour to accept the award and quite a challenge to attend the event. I recently became the fifth member of my family to be diagnosed with breast cancer and am currently undergoing treatment. Thankfully the journey was not too far from my home in the Midlands, so we made it, despite the Gale force winds that night. All the nominees and those who supported them along their journeys, made sacrifices to achieve great things for greater good. Well done to all the nominees and the team at Phoenix Newspaper for highlighting seldom heard BME work done.

Mykal Brown & SCCB

t was a pleasure to attend this event and share your 5th Year Anniversary celebrations. I feel honored to receive my personal award for my work within the Community and the award on behalf of South and City College Birmingham which excels in its commitment to Education. Mykal Wassifa Brown Heritage Foundation (MWBHF) working in conjunction with South and City College Birmingham and Birmingham Arts Museums has been devised as a touring exhibition and online site consisting of oral histories, music, film, pub-

lications and photography, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Wassifa sound system. The importance of this heritage project is aligned with Wassifa’s 40 year history; during which time Wassifa has been instrumental in the development and rise of reggae music in the city of Birmingham, regionally, nationally and internationally. By working with young volunteers to research and develop a touring exhibition and digital site, Wassifa aims to share the story of how and why reggae music and sound systems, essentially a Jamaican phenomenon, was transported to and developed in cities like Birmingham in early 1970s. We have more projects in the pipeline such as a Canal Project with Wassifa Inspire, local museum showcases which are all part of the Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC, in the New Year there will be opportunities for youngsters to showcase their talents, including artists and heritage workshops.

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The Phoenix – January 2016

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The Phoenix – January 2016

Garry Peal - Birmingham City Council

’d like to thank Marcia and the team for organizing all the days activities and wish the paper continued success for the next five years. It is my personal belief that the paper stands for everyone, and it contributes towards a comprehensive coverage of news from the rich and diverse communities within Birmingham, Greater Birmingham and indeed around the world. The paper truly is a local paper, with a global heart. As a member of Birmingham

Dauda Awwal

City Council, I am so honoured and proud to support and be associated with The Phoenix Newspaper. The papers good news stories contribute towards greater community cohesion across our society and I wish it longevity in its pursuit of these principles for many years to come. I’d like to congratulate all the nominations for the awards and I wish everyone every success and hope you all enjoy the rest of the night.

Camilita Nuttall

Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh

Olusegun Dosumu

Y Gilda Rose

Deborah Leary OBE

Dr Tony Vendryes

Karen Bailey

Keith Stokes-Smith

e are , certainly in Greater Birmingham, a multicultural family, and many of us Brothers and Sisters having a Commonwealth bond. The BCA will build up this bond, working with individuals, communities, the state and overseas governments where necessary, recognising what we have in common, and, notwithstanding the challenges, engage together in a positive and proactive way.

In conclusion, can I say that the BCA is grateful to the Phoenix newspaper in promoting informative and objective news and are very appreciative of the positive coverage given to the BCA’s endeavours, and in turn, to those working hard in the BCA's Forums and Focus Groups to 'make a difference', to make things happen, for the betterment of Birmingham, greater Birmingham and its Commonwealth Communities

our Royal Highness, Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Distinguished ladies and gentlemen. It is with great joy for me to be present at the 5th year Anniversary of the Phoenix Newspaper. My name is Olusegun Dosumu, I am a lecturer at Newman University Birmingham and the president of the BUACK and African club in Birmingham. With me here tonight is Dr Toye Ajeigbe the president of the Nigeria community in Birmingham and Chief Stephen Babasanya the president of Yoruba community in Birmingham. I have known Marcia for some time before the rebirth of Phoenix Newspaper because the paper is older than five years in actual fact. It was only relaunch five years ago with a greater and better focus. The very first time I met her in her former office in Lozells road, I could see a very gargantuan potential

in her. She told me of her challenges and I resolute in my mind to help her out in whatever means I could as a professional chartered accountant. Since the journey has started she has been growing from strength to strength. She has used the newspaper to connect people together. I got phone calls from all over the place early this year as a result of the coverage I was given in the newspaper on my 50th birthday party. That shows how far phoenix newspaper has spread around the country. The paper has brought the Africans closer to the Caribbean as we are brothers and sisters. It has connected the black race in the Midlands. Marcia has given us a column in the newspaper to write about our activities Once again I rejoice with Marcia and the phoenix newspaper team for a great job they are doing.

Gregory Alleyne, ACLT

The Phoenix – January 2016

Keynote Speech Johnson JohnRose -

Comminications Specialist; Caribbean Tourism Organisation

’d like to acknowledge the presence of my friend and Colleague Carol Hay, our director of Marketing for the UK and Europe based at our London office. Those of us who work with colleagues who are talented, skillful, smart, professional, passionate and committed can count ourselves lucky. Many of you at the Phoenix will put your hands up and say you know someone like this. I work with one such person in Carol Hay. But Carol is a lot more to me. She’s someone I can go to war with, - not that war is a popular word these days - Someone who has my back no matter the circumstances, no matter the cost; Someone who can and will look me in the eye and tell me, ‘Johnson, you’re an idiot’ and does it without an ounce of remorse. This is why I love Carol. This is why I call her my friend. Sounds very much like the Phoenix, doesn’t it? You can call the Phoenix your friend. It’s the sort of newspaper

that will go to war for you, in its own peaceful way; that will stand by you no matter the circumstances, no matter the cost; that will look you in the eye and with a beaming and radiant smile and say to you, Birmingham, you are so beautiful. Carol will tell me I'm an idiot, the Phoenix will say you’re beautiful. You can't help falling in love with it. I had to throw in UB 40 in there somewhere. Next I’ll be singing Red, Red Wine. I speak of a paper that wants to make you strong again, and independent again, and great again. I speak of a publication led by a team that’s burning with the desire to make you proud, to make you wholesome, to lift you up higher and higher; a team whose burning passion is matched only by the coolness with which they approach their duty. So understated, so unpretentious, so humble And they’ve only just begun! After all, they're only five years old. Imagine the power to inspire they can be, the influence to challenge they can exert, the force for change they

will become when given time. In five years time they may even be famous. In the five years since the Phoenix began operation a lot has happened. The queen celebrated her Diamond Jubilee, Daniel has become a superstar, we all heard him sing, didn’t we? And Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg has had a baby so he's giving up 99 per cent of his wealth. But more importantly, owned by a woman with nothing but a dream, the will and the drive, in the five short years the Phoenix has become one of the most respected regional newspapers in England. To cut across all cultures as you've done; to have become such a role model as you have, to achieve such growth as rapidly as you did; To reach these heights that you’ve reached; touched the lives that you've touched. To make such difference to Birmingham; And to do it in five short years is nothing short of miraculous. Maybe you do indeed have divine powers, Marcia. May I ask you to walk on water? You and the team at the Phoenix should stand and take a bow. The Caribbean Tourism Organization is the Caribbean region's tourism development agency. We comprise some 30 countries - Dutch, English, French and Spanish. Our

Vision is to position the Caribbean is the Most desirable, year round, warm weather destination. our motto is One sea, One Voice, One Caribbean, in very much the same way the Phoenix is about one community. We shamelessly promote the Caribbean as the best place so take a holiday, not because we are paid to do so - actually, partly because we are paid to do so- but because it's true. In carrying out our functions we form partnerships with reliable and reputable organizations and institutions. About three years ago we began one such relationship with the fledging Phoenix. We flew Marcia to Trinidad and Tobago for one of our Conferences. She was a rather shy little girl back then -or so I thought. Neither Marcia, nor the Phoenix has been the same since. Suddenly it crossed boundaries it had never crossed before, walked roads it had never travelled before, saw the Caribbean like it had never seen it before, provided coverage it had never provided before. This was an opportunity to be broader than it had ever been, go further than it had ever gone, reach deeper than it had ever reached. And Marcia and her team have not disappointed. Whatever bright light that popped

into her head during that first visit to Trinidad, this paper has continued to shine brightly. Of Course, the CTO has benefited from this relationship as well. It has brought us audiences we otherwise would not have had, exposed us to the Midlands in a manner we otherwise would not have been, given us an ally we otherwise would not have had. And for this we thank you. For selflessly lifting the community whenever it’s down, for highlighting the good when there’s so much that’s bad; for giving so much and expecting so little; I’m sure Birmingham thanks you. We at the CTO took forward to strengthening our relationship with you, to be next to you as you continue to grow, to applaud your every success. Because your success is this community’s success. And as the journey to the next five years begins, we eagerly anticipate you'll be blessed with the respect that you've earned, be given the recognition that you deserve and attract the level of support and funding that will make you comfortable. I thank you.

Satinder Taunque OBE DL

Her Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands

RH of Ghana, Deputy Lieutenant Mrs Lindsey HM's representative, Deputy Lieutenant Dr Taunque, Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh ji, Marcia Mclachlan, distinguished guests, brothers and sisters, Sat Sri Akal, Sadar

Pranam, As-salamu alaykum & a very good evening to you all. It is my great honour and privilege to attend the 5th Anniversary of the Phoenix Newspaper showcasing the best form of Commonwealth and beyond. The theme of today's celebration is

connecting communities and community cohesion, including health and wellbeing, community safety, communication and education, and travel and tourism. Today’s celebration is showcasing the five years of serving the community through the excellent Phoenix Newspaper. Secondly a great act of kindness during this festive season Phoenix Newspaper is supporting the Acorns Children's Hospice and the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust. Marcia and her hard working team deserve a big round of applause for supporting children and adults in need. Today’s celebrations grand inauguration of Phoenix Expo 2015 and the Jamaican Grand Market will go down in the history of Commonwealth and beyond. I could see the

glow of happiness on children's and adults faces celebrating and enjoying life in a peaceful cohesive and enjoyable atmosphere. That's what life is all about, a great celebration of life. To live and let live is our motto and is very close to dear Marcia’s heart, which is vividly and diligently portrayed in the Phoenix Newspaper and today's celebrations, showcasing the inspirational role models, a great opportunity for young people, their talents, services available and projects in operation. The Phoenix Newspaper is the brain child of Marcia and came into existence when Marcia saw a spark in the dark which ignited the flame of her thoughts to start publishing a newspaper called Phoenix. It is not only changed her life but the life of many delivering the

message of love, harmony, and peace. The success of the Phoenix Newspaper is mastered by Marcia's thoughts, words, actions, hard work, dedication and passion. The Phoenix Newspaper is read locally, nationally and internationally on hard copy and on line. Marcia and her multifaceted team ooze with energy to publish the daily news in a positive manner to promote peace, harmony and goodwill in the community. Marcia is a beacon and epitome of strength and grace which deserve a great round of applause. I congratulate Marcia and her grand team for the 5th Anniversary of the Phoenix Newspaper and continued success. My best wishes to you all for the festive season. God Bless, & Thank You

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The Phoenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 2016

l Mark Dwayne with Gospel Central

The Phoenix 5th Anniv Gala Awards P l Camara Fearon

l Flame Lily Arts

The Phoenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 2016

l Daniel Riley with Gospel Central

Newspaper

versary

Presentation l Dhol Blasters

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l Flame Lily Arts in full flow

l Shen Yun picking the winner for the raffle

l Jamma Steel Pan

l Lucy Tennyson

l Peter Spence

l Gospel Central

l Bianca Martin

The Phoenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 2016

The Phoenix – January 2016 Page 33

Lifetime Achievement Award Winners

Dr Saroj Duggal

t was one of the most joyous evening we enjoyed as a family on the 5th December 2015 for the 5th Anniversary celebration of The Phoenix Newspaper with the Royal King of Ghana, distinguish gusts and fantastic multicultural audiences. Our heartiest gratitude goes to a lovely and a very humble lady Marcia the owner of The Phoenix Newspaper and the entire team who organised this wonderful event for the full day mixed with the multicultural atmosphere and the

awareness in the society and the unity. I personally appreciate the thoughts of a very compassionate and hardworking lady Marcia to whom I would like to thank the owner of the Phoenix Newspaper for the nomination who inspired my hard work for being a wife, a mother a business woman and devoting myself for the needs of the community at the same time. Climbing each step of my life was not easy and seemed a challenge for me each time I climbed. However had it not been for these challenges that I succeeded with

pride I would have not achieved the results of my hard work this evening. The Phoenix Newspaper put together a prestige event which bought together communities of all cultures under the one roof, recognising their hard work and appreciating the success within their field of work. This was a celebration for everyone, the 5th anniversary of Phoenix Newspaper and the nominees as well as the support by the public and associates by attending. My support to Phoenix will continue as this is one newspaper that publishes positive stories and people together as one.

Lloyd Blake A very big thank you goes out to Marcia, her lovely son, Mark Dwayne, and the team at The Phoenix Newspaper, for putting on this prestigious event and Awards Ceremony. One can only imagine the amount of hard work that went into getting the concept to the point of realisation and delivery. Bringing a touch of the Jamaican Christmas Market feeling, and bringing a cross cultural cohesive community feel to the day and night segments, had a good feel, and was good to see. When you make whatever contributions that you can in your community across disciplines of socio-economics, education, community development, youth development, entertainment and business, you do what needs doing, without the thought of being awarded for

Willard Wigan MBE Citation by Gary Hudson

istinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – I’m honoured to be introducing Willard Wigan MBE for a lifetime achievement award. Willard Wigan MBE – micro-sculptor – sometimes described as the eighth wonder of the world. But I’m not sure about that. Is he really of this world? Genius or alien, that’s the question. He was born in the 50s – the Atomic Age when horror films told of genetically-mutated giant man-eating ants terrorising the world. Maybe the baby Willard was similarly mutated. He was rejected at school because of his learning difficulties. The dyslexic child played truant, and took refuge in watching ants, and then building and furnishing houses for them. He never imagined that more than half a century later those real life, tiny little ants would tower over his work like the monster ants in the movie. His sculptures nowadays would fit comfortably within the full stop at the end of a sentence. Some of the detail is smaller than a human blood cell, it has to be measured in microns, micrometres, a millionth of a metre – a thousandth of a millimetre. It’s so unbelievably tiny some people don’t believe it. There are conspiracy theorists who say it’s all a hoax. The same nutcases who say man didn’t land on the moon. And in a way Willard’s work is a much a triumph of human achievement as the moon landing that so

captivated us in our youth. Willard has sculpted Buzz Aldrin of course in the eye of a needle. The eye of a needle is his trademark setting. However many camels you want passing through it, he’ll do it. And when I say a needle, you’re probably thinking about one of those big fat darning needles that gnarled old seafarers use to mend sails. Otherwise how he could he fit in Henry the Eighth and all six of his wives, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and the Wicked Queen, or everyone – all thirteen of them – at the last supper? Well no actually, it is a regular sewing needle, not even a darning needle. You probably won’t even see there’s something inside the eye when you look at the needle. You might be wondering why I’m here at all, rather than someone from the Guinness Book of Records or Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Fair question. Well, Willard likes to say I discovered him. That makes me a sort of Colonel Parker to his Elvis. But I’m no Colonel Parker I never ripped him off for a start, and I didn’t discover him. He was always there, like a force of nature. And yes he has carved Elvis – on the head of a pin complete with microphone cable. I’m more Angelo Dundee to his Muhammad Ali – a sideman but part of the story. He’s definitely the Greatest. The Ali of microsculpture. He’s done the match of the century, by the way, the complete boxing ring with the fight between Cassius Clay and Sonny Liston on a match head.

it. You do it because, at the time, it needed to be done. However, when, like tonight, you are the recipient of an Award, such as a Lifetime Achievement Award, it means that, upon being considered, your contributions, efforts and work over the years, have been acknowledged, appreciated, and being recognised. It’s a good feeling. In business, when you have an idea, conceptualise, create and develop a business, the hardest thing that follows, is sustainability. The Phoenix Newspaper is a very good journalistic conduit, through which people can express and communicate their feelings and ideas, advertise their businesses, and to allow the public to know what is happening in their community and the surrounding. It’s hard to sustain a business without

Match of the Century – nice title. I’m proud to have known Willard when he was Cassius Clay. Proud too that he once made me a guitar. It’s a Fender Telecaster with six strings on it. A solid gold body. Platinum pickups. I can’t play it though. It’d get caught under my fingernail if I tried. It’s the smallest guitar in the world. On my travels I’ve occasionally seen microsculpture exhibitions advertised. In Spain, there were fairy figures riding on the backs of insects. Dead insects. Gruesome. And BIG. In China I visited an exhibition of so-called miniatures. There’s a chap who wrote the complete text of the Constitution of the Chinese Communist Party on a chip of ivory 2.8 cm square. I dare say they’re working on the contents of Chairman Mao’s Little Red Book on a grain of rice - next to a portrait of Jeremy Corbyn perhaps. But I couldn’t resist asking the attendants: “Where can I find something small?” Some people say what’s the point? Well it’s that bit at the end of his scalpel. But seriously, he’s brought pleasure to millions, whether on The Tonight Show With Conan O’Brien,

support long term. I would people to support The Phoenix Newspaper so that it can continue the work that it’s doing so well, so far. Like The Phoenix Newspaper, when I was at The Hummingbird and being under attack and pressure, I, too, published my own newspaper called The Hummingbird News. Although it was only five issues, it allowed people to read and understand what was really happening. That is the power of a newspaper. It offers the opportunity of exposure of creativity, communication, information and business development through marketing and advertising mediums. Finally, I say congratulations to all fellow Awardees. And, to all Nominees, you are all winners, by being firstly considered, and Nominated. The 6th of December, would have been my mother’s 105th Birthday. She left me when she was 85 years old. With your permission, I dedicate this Lifetime Achievement Award, to my Beloved Mother. Thank you.

the top US talk show, on YouTube, in a TED lecture or in exhibitions around the globe. He’s raised thousands of pounds, dollars, and euros for charities. In a world where life seems increasingly cheap, he brings awe, wonder, joy and no malice. He represents the best of human achievement in a way that reassures me he is of this world and not an alien. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you – the genius Willard Wigan.

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Luxury Residential Neighborhood for Jamaica's North Coast Amaterra Jamaica Limited, the developers behind the mixed-used land project, in partnership with British based entity Global Development Consortium (GDC) has unveiled plans to establish the Tamarind Ridge development which will be one of Jamaica’s premier luxury residential neighbourhoods, overlooking the proposed Amaterra Resort Township & Golf Course development.

Amaterra Development Amaterra, a spectacular mixed use development sits on over 865 acres of prime property overlooking the Caribbean Sea, which boasts over 3.5km of scenic oceanic frontage ranging from white sand beaches to majestic limestone cliffs. Amaterra will include a combination of ocean front properties designated for five-star hotels, providing over 2300 rooms to the booming tourism sector in Jamaica. Among Amaterra’s planned luxury amenities and attractions are an 18-

hole championship golf course including a clubhouse, covering over 7500 yards in length from the championship tee. The par 72 course plays from virtually sea level on the 15th and 16th holes to 60 metres in elevation on 4. The scenic clubhouse will offer guests and diners an unparalleled panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea. A Water park, two homeowners’ beach clubs and a conference center with Amphitheatre are some of the other planned features of Amaterra’s offering, ideal for the ‘residence club’ concept. The Amaterra project is expected to transform the landscape of resort development in Trelawny and change the face of the tourism industry in Jamaica. Other major developments in the Trelawny area has boosted the demand not just for housing but luxury accommodation and resort type living. Amaterra property is in close proximity to Silver Sands Villas and the proposed Harmony Cove project on the eastern border, while on the western side of the property, a recent announcement was made for the development of two 5-star properties by international hotel chain Ocean by H10. These along with planned expansion of the already world class cruise ship port in Falmouth, the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium (venue for the annual Jazz & Blues festival) will in the short term bolster economic and recreational activities including entertainment in Trelawny, destined to be the mecca of Jamaica’s tourism industry in coming years. Neighbourhoods by Amaterra South of the highway and the Amaterra Resort development, are the neighbourhoods by Amaterra which include Tamarind Ridge, Fern Hill and The Summit, ideal for the professional, executive and retired clientele. Nestled on the north coast between Jamaica’s two largest tourist centers, the development is less than half an hour from Montego Bay (and the

The Phoenix – January 2016

For further information, Please contact: Global Development Consortium Ltd 152 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX T: 0203-6933820 sales@globaldevelopmentconsortium.com www.globaldevelopmentconsortium.com Sangster’s International airport) via the north coast highway and less than forty minutes from Ocho Rios. Mr. Darvin Appanah, one of GDC partners, expects neighbourhoods by Amaterra to transform the luxury residential landscape in Jamaica based on the planned residential of-

ferings beginning with the Tamarind Ridge community. The combination of stunning lot views and villa designs, private beach club membership and other amenities including the residential clubhouse, which will include tennis courts, a 4g turf, an infinity pool and

1st class dining and shopping experiences combined with state of the art architecture will make Tamarind Ridge and other adjoining neighbourhoods (Summit and Fern Hill) stand far above other developments currently on the way on Jamaica’s north coast. Tamarind Ridge lots, which are sized at minimum 1/4 acre, are priced at a starting at £290,000. Depending on size and design specifications along with select premium finishes. The construction system being employed by Appanah and his GDC team is patented technology which offers flexible solutions for modern living spaces and guaranteed rigidity to withstand earthquakes and tropical weather conditions prevalent in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Capital appreciation Aside from gracious living, this one of a kind residential project will be synonymous to other premium developments in the area offering great prospects for returns on investment for home buyers and investors alike. Projects along the Jamaican coastline were either mid-income housing or resort development, but what is being offered here is a place for executives and professionals, and returning residents looking for their dream home with a resort feel. “Apart from the gracious living, what is to be found at Tamarind Ridge cannot be found along the coast, a project that has significant capital appreciation, one not available anywhere else or not even the bank returns can better," Mr. Keith Russell, Amaterra Jamaica Limited’s Director boasted. The location will offer residents fantastic shopping and great variety in the Amaterra commercial and town center across the road, noting that not only is the development halfway between two major locations - Montego Bay and Ocho Rios - but with the completion of the North-South leg of the highway will make Kingston less than an hour and half away. Prices starts from £290,000 for a 5bed, 5bath, 3000sqft detached house. Completion of the first phase is set for April 2016

The Phoenix – January 2016 Page 35

Special Thanks To Johnson JohnRose for flying in from Barbados

Mark Dwayne for Promotions and Stage Management

and representing the

Caribbean Tourism Organisation to be our Keynote Speaker Dr Anthony Vendryes, Founder of the Vendryes Wellness Centre in Montego bay & radio show host on Power FM for flying in from Jamaica to be

Deborah Leary OBE - Commonwealth Businesswomen Network

Toastmaster Des Richards

Crownsway Insurance Brokers

Camille Ade John

with us

HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana Hene Of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti from Ghana for

Dauda Awwal

Michael Sturridge of The Sturridge Foundation

Raphael Williams Bethel Productions

Sarah Jane Hamilton of Fenky Jane Patties

Garry Peal of Birmingham City Council for guidance and support

Roland Joseph Tetteh for ongoing work and

Olusegun Dosumu and the Nigerian

being in attendance

Mcdonald’s & Paul Ramsey for believing

holders in

PhoenExpo 2015

and the Jamaican

community

Grand Market

in us and standing

with us, this is much

Bobby Syed

appreciated as we both work for the benefit of the community

Sharon Xu from The Epoch Times & Shen Yun

support

All the stall

Tewahedo Drummers for coming specially to dance for the Ashanti

King

More Secure Limited - Sponsor of Trophies

Andrew Green - Black Links UK

Bethel Convention Centre

for providing the raffle prize

K Wines - Sponsors of the Wine

Ken Grey of Ginger Tree Boutique, Sutton Coldfield

Gospel Central for being the Host Band for the night

Owen McFarlane for Strategic Distribution & Building Partnerships

GT Promotions for your Support

charitable individuals and organisations

Joan ‘LJ’ Hunter for

media

Syed Ahmed Maroof, Consul General of Pakistan

your ongoing work

Chantelle Gillespie

Marcia Spence of Success Makers

for management of models and hostesses

Cleo Morris MarketingMaker

representing the

Pakistan High Commissioner

Costas Petrouis representing

Cyprus High Commission

the

inspirational and

guidance

Paul Harrison from PK

contribution

Camara Fearon Columnist supporting

Jahmi Williams of Wassifa Showcase for

Alison Bajaican for her

Mr Abdi of Abdi Optometrist for being my longest serving advertiser

Bangladesh High Commission

Bishop Neville Wolliston for travelling from

representative

Connecticut USA to support Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh

Nadeem Qadir

Mr. Golden Neswiswi and Mr Oarabile Motlaga both representing

South Africa High Commission the

Gideon Osei Kankam for your help and support

Thank you for coming to celebrate with us, and we wish you and your friends and family a happy, healthy and blessed New Year Special Thanks to Miss Lily’s Flowers for the Decoration of the Venue, Table Flowers and Presentation Flowers. Studio 15, Northside Business Centre, 1 Wellington Street, Birmingham, B18 4NR 0121 454 4455 07766 651 942

5th Anniversary DVD £10 per copy Relive the grandeur of the night with this commemorative DVD To Order your copy of the 5th Anniversary DVD, email your details to anniversary@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject ‘DVD’ and a member of our team will be in touch

th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Presentation Ceremony Saturday 5th December 2015

Bethel Convention Centre, West Bromwich, B70 7JW

Page 36

The Phoenix – January 2016

l Marcia McLaughlin, Managing Editor of The Phoenix Newspaper, Dr Saroj Duggal of Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited, Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE, Dr Dharam Duggal and Neelam Duggal of Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited

Champion of inter-faith relations honoured with Humanitarian Award at Nishkam Centre

he Phoenix Newspaper was honoured to be invited to the Nishkam Centre to present the Humanitarian Award to one of the most humble and gracious champions of inter-faith relations in Birmingham and beyond. Bhai Sahib (Dr) Mohinder Singer, OBE and Dr. Saroj Duggal were both present at the impressive Nishkam Centre, in the city, to receive their crystal-cut trophies and mark deserved reward for their outstanding achievements in the community. Bhai Sahib, chair of the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha Birmingham, was awarded the Humanitarian Award, by The Phoenix

Newspaper Founder/ Managing Editor, Marcia McLaughlin, which he received with huge pride, saying; "To receive this award is truly humbling for me.I am a modest worker here and am totally humbled by receiving this award. This award is not just for me, but for the Nishkam Group of Organisations. We are truly humbled." After receiving his Humanitarian Award, Bhai Sahib Ji then presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Duggal, owner of Crownsway Insurance Brokers Limited, who were one of the sponsors of The Phoenix Newspaper Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation Ceremony. It proved a double ‘award’ for her, who said; "I am

fantastically proud to receive this award from The Phoenix Newspaper. To then receive it from Bhai Sahib was very special for me and my family and a true blessing." Bhai Sahib went on to say; "Dr. Duggal is a woman of immaculate substance – a true winner in every sense." Crownsway Insurance l Marcia McLaughlin, Managing Editor of The Phoenix Newspaper presenting Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh Brokers Limited is a firm of OBE with his Humanitarian Award insurance brokers who seek various insurance deals for clients. Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha Birmingham provides a place of worship for the Sikh community and also serves as a hub of activities for the vast and diverse communities and faiths in and around the city.

l Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE presenting Dr Saroj Duggal with her Lifetime Achievement Award

The Phoenix – January 2016

Page 37

FASHION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Miss India UK launches for 2016

he official Miss India UK Launch for the 2016 global pageant took place at the Hilton Hotel in London Olympia as part of Miss India Worldwide which is in its 25th year. Held by Samerah Elisa, 29, Entrepreneur and National Director of Miss India UK the glamorous

red carpet evening was attended by Desi Rascal’s Owais Khan and Singing Sensation Jay Kadn who performed live on the night. The current Miss India UK, Nandini was also in attendance along with former Miss India UK who also went on to win the Global Competition, Nehal. There was also a fashion catwalk

showcasing two of the Miss India UK Sponsors, Malika Boutique & Ideebs by Aaliyah as well as B4U Music and VC London. Miss India's 2016 live auditions take place in January and is open to women aged 17-27 of Indian origin living in the UK.

The Search Is On For Birmingham’s own Cinderella

eading celebrity hangout EF MEDISPA has launched a search to find the city’s very own ‘Cinderella’, after hearing about a mystery shopper purchasing Jimmy Choo’s latest creations from Selfridges Birmingham. The shoe sold for a whopping £3,000 and now London’s top medispa is acting as Fairy Godmother by offering the

buyer the ultimate ‘top to toe’ package at one of its clinics. For one lucky lady, the shoe fit, and now she can continue her Cinderella story thanks to EF MEDISPA. With three clinics in Kensington, Chelsea and St John’s Wood, and a second Drip and Chill™ bar in Canary Wharf, the leading medi-spa is inviting the mystery shopper down to London for the ultimate fairytale package. The award-winning chain of aesthetic clinics is a favourite with the world’s elite, offering a host of beauty treatments; including facials, massages, cellulite treatment, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, hair removal, and eye lash tinting and shaping. In addition to its highend treatment menu, which includes acne scarring, rosacea, pig-

mentation, skin peels, anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, and extensive spa packages. The owner of the stunning Jimmy Choos will be invited down to their chosen London clinic for an extensive ‘top to toe’ selection of treatments. “We thrive on luxury at EF MEDISPA; from our locations and environment, to the treatments and personal service that you receive. The buyer of these stunning shoes is clearly on our wavelength so we want to find them and give them the ultimate VIP treatment. We want the city of Birmingham to spread the word and help us find Cinderella – if that’s you, get in touch and take a picture of your sparkly Choos, and we’ll whisk you down to London for a Fairytale day at EF MEDISPA.”

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 38

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Dr Vendryes

consider soy to be a super food and I have been recommending this humble bean to my patients for many years. Scientific research has shown that eating soy protects against heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis while helping hormone related problems like the menopause. It also is an economical and complete source of protein that can safely replace animal protein in the diet. Yet, from time to time, readers have expressed concern about any potential dangers from soy. Like many good thing, soy has been blamed for all kinds of ills. To my mind, most of these accusations are based on anecdotal reports or shoddy research. The bulk of the medical evidence confirms the valuable role of soy in preventing disease and supporting health. Let’s look at the most common concerns.

SOY AND CANCER

Much of the worry about soy has to do with naturally occurring compounds called phytoestrogens, the most abundant being the isoflavone, genistein. As their name suggests, phytoestrogens have chemical structures similar to that of the hormone estrogen, but they are not estrogen. This similarity in chemical structure enables these isoflavones to fit into estrogen receptor sites on various cells, much as a key fits into a lock. Thus they exhibit an estrogen blocking or anti-estrogen effect in the human body. Far from causing breast cancer, this ability to bind to estrogen receptors allows phytoestrogens to control the effects of the much stronger estrogens that are either produced by the body or come from toxic chemicals like insecticides or industrial chemicals. This is one major mechanism by which soy is thought to protect against diseases like breast and prostate cancer, uterine fibroids

and breast lumps and cysts. The majority of research as well as the experience of Asian populations where soy has been a dietary staple for thousands of years confirms the protective role of soy. A report published in the May 2001 issue of Cancer, Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention provides compelling evidence of the anti-cancer effects of soy foods. This study found that, with an increase in soy intake during adolescence, there was a reduction in the risk of breast cancer. Women with the highest consumption of soy had only half the risk of those with the lowest intake. Other studies have also shown a reduced risk of cancers of the prostate and colon with increasing soy consumption.

SOY AND THE THYROID

Another charge against soy is that it contains “anti-thyroid agents” that can disturb the function of the thyroid gland. This is largely a theoretical concern. A number of healthy foods like cabbage and soy contain substances called goitregens. These substances in very large amounts can affect thyroid tissue in test tube studies, but this does not appear to be the case in live human beings. In research on animals once there is sufficient iodine in the diet, no such problem occurs. Population studies show no increased prevalence of thyroid disease in countries with a high intake of soy, and the research on patients with thyroid problems has been inconclusive.

The Phoenix – January 2016

To Soy Or Not To Soy...

That debate aside, most researchers agree that consuming soy at the level needed to get its health benefits (about 25 to 50 grams per day) is most unlikely to impair thyroid function. After using soy with hundreds of patients, I have detected no disturbance of thyroid function that I could blame on soy. However, if you have an underactive thyroid, a bit of caution may be in order. Try to keep your soy intake fairly consistent, take an iodine supplement and have your thyroid function monitored periodically. Also be aware that taking thyroid medication at the same time as foods (soy or otherwise) may decrease the absorption and effectiveness of drug. Take thyroid medicines on an empty stomach.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Include some soy products in your daily diet. Soy is now available in many, many forms: soymilk, soy based shakes, soy cheese, soy nuts, soups, drinks, protein bars, tofu and tempeh. There are also textured vegetable protein products like veggie mince

and soy burgers. My favorite way to have high quality soy each day is with a soy protein shake. As this is actually a very nutritionally balanced meal in a convenient drink, it provides all the basic nutrients (including some iodine) for optimal nutrition along with the additional benefits of soy Enough healthy protein is a vital part of your diet. Select high quality soy products as not all soy foods are of equal value. Many so-called soy products have low levels of the substances that provide the health benefits of soy. Look for the term ‘soy protein isolate’ and check the protein content on labels as a guide in assessing soy products. It also makes good nutritional sense to consume other forms of healthy protein like peas, beans, fish and even organic eggs and organic poultry. Let your food be your medicine. You may email Dr. Vendryes at tonyvendryes@gmail.com or listen to An Ounce of Prevention on POWER106FM on Fridays at 8:15 pm. Details of his books and articles are available at www. tonyvendryes.com

Spire South Bank Hospital and Worcester Wolves unite

ritish Basketball League outfit, Worcester Wolves, have announced a new partnership with Spire South Bank Hospital in the city, having recently signed a sponsorship agreement to support the professional basketball team. It means that the Wolves players will receive care and support from one of the hospital's leading Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons, Mr Nadim Aslam throughout the season, with the added benefits of University of Worcester Sports Therapy students in getting highly sought after learning opportunities. Tthe Wolves’ support comes at an important time as they plan for the season ahead with the new look team. They have an established rela-

tionship with Spire South Bank Hospital, yet this is their first formal agreement between the two parties. Hospital Director Simon Milner said: "The Wolves have enjoyed tremendous success in recent years and are fast becoming one of the UK's leading basketball teams. We are delighted to be sponsors as they are a great asset to the city and we will continue to provide a high standard of care to players who need us." Worcester Wolves Managing Director, Mick Donovan, added: "We are absolutely thrilled to have the support of Spire South Bank Hospital. The opportunities that are being afforded to our students at the University clearly enhance their experiences on the Sports Therapy course and make this partnership even more worthwhile.”

Join Cure Leukemia for Birmingham's favourite pantomime in January

his Christmas the Birmingham Hippodrome will be hosting the spectacular pantomime showing of 'Aladdin' and there are a limited amount of tickets available at a special, discounted rate for Cure Leukemia supporters. Packed with sensational special effects, a magical 3D flying carpet ride, laugh-out-loud comedy, and an Aladdin’s cave of lavish sets and costumes, this year’s pantomime will be everything you could wish for - featuring stars

Marti Pellow as Abanazar, Julian Clarey as Slave of the Ring, Lee Mead as Aladdin and Matt Slack as Wishee Washee. For a performance on Thursday 28th January 2016 Cure Leukemia will be able to offer supporters tickets for just £15 - a saving of up to £10 - but you have be quick. To book your perfect stocking filler or family night out, email: laura@cureleukaemia.co.uk The show starts at 7.15pm prompt

The Phoenix – January 2016

reetings from Ghana to the beloved people of Great Britain. My name is Roland Joseph Tetteh. I am your brother in the Lord. I was born in October 3, 1966 in Ghana. I now work as a logistics manager at William Pitt construction in Accra Ghana. I love the lord and the lord loves us all, every month I will be bringing to you God’s News from various different perspective.

PRAYER A

prayer is a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or another deity. Prayer may take the form of a hymn, incantation, formal creedal statement, or a spontaneous utterance in the praying person. There are different forms of prayer such as petitionary prayer, prayers of supplication, thanksgiving, and praise. Prayer may be directed for the purpose of worshipping, requesting guidance, requesting assistance, confessing transgressions (sins) or to express

one's thoughts and emotions. Thus, people pray for all kinds of reasons such as personal benefit or for the sake of others. Prayer that involves some kind of request, have arisen some interest in connection with the traditional monotheism shared by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. According to traditional monotheism, God is omniscient (knows everything that can be known), omnibenevolent (perfectly good), omnipotent (can do everything that is compatible with the other attributes mentioned above), impassible (unable to be affected

by an outside source), immutable (unchanging), and free. Prayer seems to be a prominent feature of every great events involving everything in the world are preceded by attempting to communicate with special entities , such as a God or gods, or dead relatives, or exemplary human beings who are believed to occupy some special status. Prayer is essential and tedious, something that is much needed and very hard in live. There are many types of prayers that are being channel to it sources of power for help. Prayer is a sign to study and to show thyself-approved unto God. The heartbeat of the spiritual life is prayer.

Prayer in Hinduism Perspective

Prayer or worship is considered to be an integral part of the Hindu religion. The chanting of mantras is the most popular form of worship in Hinduism. Yoga and meditation are also considered as a form of devotional service towards the Lord. The purpose of Hindu prayer is to cleanse the mind and soul of impurities and to bring balance and harmony to one's self and the world. Through this process, Hindus believe a person can come close to God. Hindu prayer involves the concentration of the mind to eradicate negative

thinking and to open the soul up to the healing and enlightening properties that are contained within prayer. Therefore, a prayer session may contain a variety of mantras, yoga or meditation, each one playing a role in giving the devotee a closer connection to Aum. Prayer is achieved through puja (worship) done either at the family shrine or a local temple. We can see from Krishna's injunction that prayer is fundamental to Hinduism, that to dwell constantly on God is key to enlightenment. Mahatma Gandhi stated that "prayer is the very soul and essence of religion, and therefore prayer must be the very core of the life of man."

Islamic Perspective

Prayer is one of the central elements of Islamic practice and worship. The five daily prayers (ṣalāt) that constitute the second pillar of Islam deeply pervade the everyday life of observant Muslims. It is an obligatory religious duty for every Muslim, from the pre-dawn Morning Prayer to the night prayer that precedes sleep. Except those who are prepubescent, menstruating, or are experiencing bleeding in the 40 days after childbirth. There are spiritual conditions and aspects of prayer which rep-

resent its essence. Prayer represents the individual’s affirmation of servanthood before the Lord of Creation and submission to His Omnipotent Will. It also represents a willing acknowledgment of our weakness and neediness by seeking Divine Grace, Mercy, Abundance and Forgiveness In Islam, there are two forms of prayer. One has ritual, formal requirements and manners, which are essential to its correct observance. In this ritual, the worshiper starts standing, bows, prostrates, and concludes while sitting on the ground. During each posture, the worshiper recites or reads certain verses, phrases and prayers .This is called šalāt. The other form is supplicatory prayer, and in its more general sense, represents an open-ended conversation with Allah, which may occur at any time or place, with few restrictions or requirements. It is called dua.

Page 39

AZUZA STREET Prayer in Christianity

Prayer is an important activity in Christianity, and there are several different forms of Christian prayer. Prayer can take on different forms such as verbal, written, or silent communication. It can consist of petition, confession, lamentation, and other expressions of faith. The most common prayer among Christians is the "Lord's Prayer", which according to the gospel accounts (e.g. Matthew 6:9-13) is how Jesus taught his disciples to pray, that God may be glorified, and that for this purpose men may be worthy citizens of His kingdom, living in conformity with His will. This is a model for prayers of adoration, confession and petition in Christianity. Christian Science teaches that prayer is a spiritualization of thought or an understanding of God and of the nature of the underlying spiritual creation. Scientists believe that prayer does not change the spiritual creation but gives a clearer view of it, and the result appears in the human scene as healing. Part 2 will be coming in February so watch out!

Gospel star, Franklin, surprises shoppers with gift card giveaway

Birmingham Choirs Sing Their Hearts Out For Heart Charity In The Midlands

ocal choirs and bands from Birmingham raised nearly £500 by singing for shoppers and passers-by in Birmingham City Centre as part of Midlands-based national charity, Heart Research UK’s annual “Sing for your Heart” campaign. Hosted by Heart Research UK in the Midlands, the Brindleyplace event was led by the Sutton Coldfield Community Choir along with performances from the City of Birmingham Brass Band and Vivat! Choir. There was also Christmas stalls,

a tombola and free gifts at the event to get people into the festive spirit and to support local research projects. Jan Evans, a member of the Sutton Coldfield Community Choir, said: "Heart disease affects so many of our lives and without events like Sing for your Heart, the charity wouldn't be able to fund important research." The concert is one of many events taking place in the Midlands throughout December as choirs, singers and performers flex their vocal chords in support of the charities annual campaign. All money raised at Sing for your

Heart events will be spent locally to support research projects in the West Midlands. Over £500,000 has been spent in the region over the last 10 years to help people live healthier, happier lives. John Lloyd, Midlands Regional Manager at Heart Research UK, said: “Everyone has a voice inside them. The good news is, “Sing for your Heart” in December, can help bring out the potential in people. “What you can accomplish, the love and the knowing that you are “Helping Hearts Near You”. Many people think they don`t have a voice, but that should not stop them from trying. Please support

HRUK in the Midlands during the festive season.” Singing is also shown to be good for your heart. Professor Graham Welch, Chair of Music Education at the Institute of Education, University of London, has studied developmental and medical aspects of singing for 30 years. He says: "The health benefits of singing are both physical and psychological. Singing has physical benefits because it is an aerobic activity that increases oxygenation in the blood stream and exercises major muscle groups in the upper body, even when sitting.“

ne woman shouted “Bless me, Kirk!” at a Walmart store after GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist Kirk Franklin announced he would be “blessing some folk.” Just before Christmas, the singer gave away gift cards worth fifty dollars to holiday shoppers. Franklin originally planned to purchase and distribute free copies of his latest chart-topping ‘Losing My Religion’ CD and also buy gifts, and groceries. Once discovering the albums were not in stock, he altered his plans in favor of an impromptu gift card giveaway. “Excuse me, ladies and gentleman, y’all might not want to leave. I got a blessing for a lot of people and I feel like being in the giving mood,” said the 45-yearold on a megaphone. “I feel like blessing some

people this holiday season, so if you are in line and about to spend some money, you’re about to get a little bit of a blessing, because I feel like blessing some folk,” he announced. Franklin chose military veterans, a home-schooler, teachers, a Walmart employee, single mothers and some random individuals as recipients of his generosity. There were no shortage of appreciative smiles, cheers and laughter throughout the process. He went on; “Before I leave, let me say, thank y’all for the opportunity to put a smile on your faces.” After which, he sang; ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas.’ The big-hearted Gospel veteran then posed for more fan selfies before expressing his gratitude to the team at Walmart for their assistance in pulling off the mass giveaway.

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Page 40

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

The Phoenix – January 2016

Who will be the authors of Black history?

l Brookvale Primary School’s Jenny Maskell, deputy headteacher and pupils Laksh (left) and Miya, now in Year 2.

Brookvale Primary among England’s top schools for two years running

taff and pupils at Brookvale Primary School are celebrating for a second time after being placed in the top two per cent of schools in the country for the successful teaching of early reading. This year 100 per cent of Year 1 pupils passed the phonics test screening and their outstanding results have received ministerial recognition. This is the second year in a row that Brookvale– which fea-

tures in Birmingham’s top ten most sought after school – has achieved a high level of success for phonics. In 2014 it was placed in the top five per cent of primary schools in the country, with a 97 per cent pass rate. Across the country 600,000 five and six-year-olds took part in the Phonics Screening Check. All children are tested to ensure that they are able to read phonetically - this means they recognise the sounds that are said when they look at the letters and can blend

the sounds to read words. In a thank-you letter from the Department for Education, Nick Gibb, MP, the minister of state for school reform, praised Brookvale Primary School on its successful results. He conveyed his ‘warmest congratulations for the very high standard of achievement.’ He wrote: ‘We want to ensure that every child develops a firm grasp of phonics, which is why I was so delighted to see your results. With 100% of pupils

at Brookvale Primary School reaching or exceeding the pass mark in the check, your school is in the top 2% of all primary schools in the country. “I am pleased to learn that you have ensured that all Year 1 children in your school have a firm foundation in reading, from which they can develop further and become increasingly fluent readers.” Jenny Maskell, deputy head of Brookvale Primary School, which is part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, said: “The use of Read Write Inc. has enabled us to ensure that phonics is taught in a systematic way, supporting all of our children to learn to read quickly. The success of our children in the Phonic Screening Check is testament to the hard work, commitment and enthusiasm that all of our children and staff put into the teaching and learning of phonics."

ill it be written by intellectuals from colonial backgrounds, who have their own interests at heart, the miseducation of our children or at the least they enforce a pseudo notion that we as a people did not create anything, however if we take a quick glance at a few Black inventors for example; Garrett Morgan, Inventor of a traffic signal and gas mask, Daniel Hale Williams pioneer of open heart surgery, Patricia Bath created a laser surgical device, Granville woods Telegraph Device developer Thomas Mensah Pioneered field of Fibre Optics, the list goes on and on! Spiritual history is akin to spiritual science, which built the great pyramids and is a total science, as opposed to research science whose advancement is slow and experimental. Scholars have unequivocally proven that Black history and culture are the oldest on the planet, and that we gave the gift of civilization to the world. The spiritual book; Makaba, was given to people of African descent by the modern day spiritual leader Ne Munada Nsemi. It represents a major contribution to the spiritual patrimony of mankind, beginning with the creation of our Galaxy. Scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop gave us “The African origins of Civilization”, Ashra Kwesi, lectures from the book’s in stone (the pyramids). Dr Henrik Clarke, wrote “African people in world History” and Robin Walker wrote “When we Ruled”, to name but a few. My question to you now is; do you know your history?’ In this part 1 of a 3 short synopsis, I will begin with: Our 1st Ancestors, Ne Nzala Mpandu and Mama Nkenge Lufuma… The Bakongo, or Nzilla Kongo, is the initiatory Spiritual Religion of the Bena Kongo, of the Kongo. The Bakongo teaches that in prehistoric times, Space Beings, called the Bana ba Zulu, the Sons of Heaven, from the luminous planet Kakongo, which is in the periphery of the great star

by Kesa Nkulu

Sirius, came to earth where they disembarked on the Ethiopian Plateau”. (We are “spiritual” or “energetic” multi-dimensional beings who come to earth for a physical experience and to achieve a cosmic mission.) In Ethiopia, the Sons of Heaven mixed their blood, by marriage, with the Bana ba Tami, (people from the earth) giving rise to a new people called the Bana Kongo, the children of Ne Kongo Nimi”. Author, Ne Muanda Nsemi founder of Bundu Dia Kongo. Now if this sounds pretty farfetched, then what do you say when Tom Cruise a spokesman for the religion of Scientology suggests that, beings arrived on planet earth trillions of years ago. In the Hindu tradition, the Bhagavata Purana (one of their sacred books) Krishna possessed a Vimana a ‘space vessel’ or in the Sumerian tablets, translations speaks of the space beings called the Anunaki who came to earth. Additionally, the Bible states that the Sons of Heaven married the women of the earth, whilst the Koran states 53:49 “The Lord is the Lord of The Mighty Sirius Star. The Yoruba of Nigeria and Ghana speak of the Orisha who came from the sky, The Dogons teach us about the Nommo’s from space, the Zulu’s also say they came from the sky. History is one of the soul’s great healers; it can reconnect an individual to their language, practices, and prophecies to name a few. To add, an African scholar once wrote “history develops your immune system”, which provides a mental barrier against pseudo ideas, philosophical viruses and religious dogma that have become custom heritage in our community. To be continued…

The Phoenix – January 2016

Page 41

CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT There are so many gifted designers waiting for you to discover them. I recommend making the most of your community and to start personalising your shopping experiences.

BOLD STITCH HANDMADE

till on the talking post is The Phoenix 5th Anniversary Gala Awards held on the 5th December 2015. I had a great evening due to the wonderful atmosphere and nature of the event. It was a pleasure meeting with many wonderful inspirational people that had travelled from all over the West Midlands, the UK as well as Internationally. One thing that always comes to mind with events such as The Phoenix Newspaper Gala and Awards ceremony, is the impact we have when we come together, the importance of building a strong link with the community and of course supporting local businesses. The red carpet certainly bestowed the most beautifully and elegantly dressed ladies and smart gentlemen in their gala regalia if I do say so myself. I also thank all of your responses with regards to my dress and enquiries as to where I purchased it. Well as promised I have no problem in recommending Mwape & Chanda a family run tailoring business called ‘Bold Stitch Handmade’ which you can find on Facebook.

FEEDBACK and MESSAGE FOR 2015/2016

Welcome to ‘Camara features’ a new column where I will be spotlighting some of the most amazing charities, organisations and people I have had the privilege of working with. Be a part of my journey and learn and enjoy about being inspired.

I first met the Bold Stitch team when I sang at an event called ‘Party On The Pitch’ alongside Alexandra Burke , Cover Drive, The Saturdays and Scouting for Girls which was a massive free community event run by Waltham Forest Council in Lon-

don. Although we haven’t kept in touch on a personal level for the past 3 years, my mum went to yet another community event in September she met them and after inspecting (yes she used to make my clothes) the perfect machine and hand

stitching on their merchandise and the incredibly reasonable prices she enquired about making me a dress. It was when Chanda asked my name she remembered me and said she had been following my career and she even showed mum a picture of my-

self and her nephew on her mobile! Well that was the start of a brilliant correlation. We spoke again closer to the Gala, I went for a fitting and allowed Mwape to share our design vision together. Hence my beautiful dress. They have a bright collection of men’s, women’s and children’s wear as well as accessories. My introduction of Bold Stitch Handmade is to encourage you to try local services/ products first and to try and get to know the people behind the business you are using, this enabling you to enjoy a connection you would not otherwise have by trying to keep your community unique in embracing its talent and diversity.

Do not be afraid of “networking”. I remember whenever I heard the word networking I would start to feel slightly uncomfortable and a little frustrated as I am not fond of small talk. It is only in the last year that I realised “networking” doesn’t have to be all that bad. I had the pleasure of attending a conference with a number of motivational speakers and influential leaders in November, one of the speakers named Matt Bird. Matt covered “networking” and I immediately had a “lightbulb moment”. I now try to think of networking as genuine and authentic conversations between people and that makes me feel at ease. A message which was very powerful from Matt, “How we treat those people who we think can do nothing for us, is the test of authenticity”. Of course we would love to connect with people who can help us with our careers but what is it that we can do for others? It takes a good person to listen and build genuine connections - without thinking about personal gain. This links with my 2015 experience. The last year has been a year of release and growth for me, from taking my exams and leaving school to taking on a job which I love alongside performing. 2015 was a year of “connection” with family, different individuals and organisations. 2015 was a year of “decisions” and a year of “growth”. So as I continue to build on the powerful year I personally have had, I wish every one of you the same - a year of “decisions, growth and connections” for 2016! I look forward to connecting with you all throughout the year, love and blessings! Cx

Get in Touch with Camara camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com

www.camaraofficial.com

www.youtube.com/camaraofficial www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)

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Page 42

HOLIDAYS, TRAVEL AND OVERSEAS NEWS

The Phoenix – January 2016

Emirates A380 draws in over 18,000 visitors at the Dubai Airshow

Hands Up Holidays Scoops Three Awards I t’s been a busy few months for eco-luxury family travel specialist Hands Up Holidays, as in rounding off the year it has won three awards: Highly Commended Award for Best Family Educational Holiday – Family Traveller Magazine, Highly Commended Award for Best Family Tour Operator – Junior Magazine, Runner Up Award for Best Volunteering Travel Organiser in Thailand – Thailand Green Excellence Awards. The founder of Hands Up Holidays, Christopher Hill, says

“These awards have capped off a stellar year for us, and we are thrilled to get this recognition: in two of the main family publications, Family Traveller Magazine and Junior Magazine, and from one of our most popular and favourite destinations: Thailand. Winning the Highly Commended award for Best Family Educational Holiday highlights our key strengths of family trips that educate, inspire and enrich the lives of our family clients and those they help. And winning the Highly Commended award for Best Fam-

ily Tour Operator in the Junior Magazine Design Awards was a tremendously encouraging start for our new look website, as the judges received a sneak peak of the designs.” The Family Traveller Awards were judged by Jane Anderson, Family Traveller Editor, special columnists Mariella Frostrup and Simon Reeve, Jane Knight, Travel Editor of The Times, Sue Ward-Davies, Travel and Lifestyle Editor of Elle magazine, and readers, who voted in their tens of thousands. During its rich 15 year history,

gers have the choice of over 2,000 channels. Emirates was the first airline to order the A380 and is the largest operator of this aircraft. The A380 fleet has flown over 52,000 round trips and has travelled over 700 million kilometres. Over 47 million passengers have travelled on the aircraft to date. The Emirates A380 currently flies it to 34 destinations around the world from Dubai. The airline currently has 68 A380s in service and has a further 72 on firm order. At the 2015 Dubai Airshow, Emirates also displayed its smallest aircraft – an Embraer Phenom 100E and a Cirrus SR22, representing the fleet of 27 new aircraft which will be used by cadets at the new Emirates Flight Training Academy when it opens in 2016. On the sidelines of the show, Emirates officially inaugurated Emirates SkyCentral, its stateof-the-art cargo terminal at the Logistics District in Dubai South, dedicated to the airline’s freighter operations.

Nigerian, Jighere, Africa’s 1st World Scrabble Champion

N l Wellington Jighere becoming World Champion

Junior has strived to celebrate the best designer and high street children’s fashion labels, the luxurious hotels and fine restaurants that can cater to a family’s every whim while retaining high standards, the funkiest and most child-friendly interiors, and the top classic and modern toys and books. The Thailand Green Excellence Awards UK highlight Thailand’s dedication to the conservation of its natural and cultural resources, and support sustainable tourism development.

ver 18,000 people visited the new two-class Emirates A380 at the Dubai Airshow. That is the equivalent of filling up 30 full flights on the two-class A380, which debuted for the first time at the show. The aircraft on display was Emirates’ 68th A380 and was ferried from Hamburg to the show site, allowing Dubai Airshow visitors a first glimpse on-board the brand new double-decker. The aircraft began flying to Copenhagen on 1 December. It also flies to Bangkok. The Emirates’ two class configured A380 features 58 flatbed seats in Business Class and 120 Economy Class seats on the upper deck, with another 437 seats in Economy Class on the lower deck. The aircraft also features Emirates’ renowned Onboard Lounge. The newest version of Emirates’ A380 features among the widest individual in-seat Economy Class screens in the industry, measuring in at 13.3 inches, where passen-

igerians have been congratulating countryman Wellington Jighere, who has become the first African to win the English-language World Scrabble Championship. The 32-year-old beat English-

man Lewis MacKay 4-0 in the final in Australia. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was among those to congratulate him, saying he has "done the country proud". Mr Jighere who graduated university earlier this year, was said

to have felt that he played with the "whole continent" behind him. He added that it "still baffles" him that he managed to win, given how tired he felt as he had "not slept well in about a week". Wellington and the five other members of the Nigerian team

only arrived Down Under the day before the tournament started, so didn't really have much of a chance to get over the 20-hour flight or the seven-hour time difference.

The Phoenix – January 2016

Page 43

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Spalding on course to be Britain’s first Asian Professional Golfer

irmingham golfer, Daanyal Spalding, is being marked as the biggest name in the game since Rory McIlroy MBE and he is now on the verge becoming one of the biggest British Asian golfers in the world. The 18-year-old, from Hall Green, is making strides to emulate his hero, Tiger Woods, and in doing so, become Britain’s first Asian professional golfer and has got the wheels well and truly in motion by signing with renowned sports agent, Shehneela Ahmed. Daanyal, who turned professional in 2013, at the age of 15, was touted as a future star in the game ever since the age of 4, when he first took

Orlan Jackman joins the Wolf Pack in Worcester

he Worcester Wolves have swooped to sign one of the UK's most exciting talents as Orlan Jackman joined the Wolf Pack. He left CAB Madeira in Portugal and is delighted to be joining the Worcester outfit and make a return to the BBL, where he last played for London Lions in 2012 as one of the League's most impressive rookies and was named in the All-British BBL team. The explosive forward/guard has an impressive pedigree with a college career in the United States at NJCAA Division 1 Seminole State in Oklahoma for two years, before transferring to Oklahoma City University, where he spent a further two seasons. He was included in the Great Britain senior squad for the first time in 2013, having previously featured for the GB under 16's and 20's in European competition. He then signed for German Regionaliga side, Iserjohn Kangeroos for two years, where he led them to the play-offs for promotion to Pro - A in 2015 as their player of the year and averaged 15.9 points per game and 8.1 rebounds. "I am extremely excited for the opportunity to win silverware in my own country, that's the dream, and the reality is that they are working towards that at

Worcester," said Jackman on his move to Worcester. Wolves Head Coach Paul James was thrilled with his latest signing, saying: "I'm delighted that we have been able to secure the exciting talent that is 6'7"Orlan Jackman for the remainder of the season. "He is a versatile player who can score in many different ways and can play in multiple positions. Orlan will also will also bring added toughness to the team at both ends of the floor. I'm very excited to have him on the team and really appreciate the hard work undertaken by the Directors of the club in helping to make this possible." Despite his absence recently from the UK during the regular basketball season, Orlan has enjoyed a high profile as a leading figure in the prestigious Midnight Madness competition and has been a true role model for youngsters in his home city of London. Wolves Managing Director Mick Donovan added: "There are many qualities that Orlan will bring to Worcester as a person and a player and it is significant that a very talented UK player has opted to play in his home country's professional league." Jackman will make his debut next Friday, December 11 when the Wolves host Leicester Riders.

New FA-led head injury guidelines follows Albion hero family campaign

he FA have issued new guidelines on the treatment of football-related head injuries following a high profile campaign by the family of former West Bromwich Albion and England forward Jeff Astle. Ruled are that footballers who sustain a suspected concussion, either during training

lessons at the Ryder Cup venue, the Belfry Golf Club, in Warwickshire, winning his first tournament, at the age of 6, in 2005. He made his professional début at the Jamega Professional Golf Tour at the Burnham and Berrow Golf Course. Shehneela said: "I'm delighted to have signed Daanyal, He could be a future star for sure, he's talented and a unique role model for many youngsters across Britain." Daanyal’s childhood dream has finally come true by becoming a fullyfledged professional golfer and is poised to share space in the upper echelon of the game, with the likes of his hero, Woods and 3-times Masters winner, McIlroy.

Dr Ian Beasley, the FAs Head of Medical Services, said "The paramount priority for The FA is player safety, and so the publication of these concussion guidelines is integral to achieving an unprecedented high level of care and safety for players at all levels." His widow, Laraine, and her daughters Dawn and Claire, launched the Jeff Astle Foundation aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of brain injury in sport securing support from a number of high-profile patrons, including Gary Neville, Frank Skinner and Gordon Banks OBE. Jeff, who scored Albion’s winning goal in the 1968 FA Cup final and was a member of England’s 1970 World Cup squad, died in 2002 from a brain condition normally related to boxing, at the age of 59, He was the first British professional footballer confirmed to have died from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) - a progressive, degenerative brain disease found in individuals with a history of head injury, often as a result of multiple concussions.

or in a game, are to be immediately removed from the pitch and not allowed to return until the appropriate treatment has been administered. The new guidelines have been drawn up after consultation from a panel of leading professionals in head injury and concussion.

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Orlan joins the Wolf Pack - Page 43

World’s Fastest Man To Race At London Anniversary Games

he world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, is set to compete at the world-class London Anniversary Games next summer. World record holder Bolt will take to the track at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London in what will be his final race before the Olympic Games in Rio. Part of the IAAF Diamond League series, the London Anniversary Games is one of the best athletics meetings in the world and one of the showpiece events in the British sporting summer. Staged at the Olympic Stadium in Stratford, East London on 22-23 July 2016, the event will provide the final races for many of the world’s best athlete before they head to Rio for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Bolt is a sportsman who transcends track and field and is a global icon. In 2015, he successfully defended his 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles at the Beijing World Championships and is the double Olympic Champion at 100m, 200m and 4x100m. He said: “I am pleased to announce my return to the Olympic stadium in London for the 2016 Anniversary Games. I know the athletics fans in London are very knowledgeable and

Boys and Girls both Winners at School Games

rk Boulton Academy students celebrated after winning both the girls football and boys badminton finals in the School Games. Year 8 and 9 girls football team beat Washwood Heath Academy 2-1 to win the final of the School Games tournament with student Yasmin Kamal voted Player of the Match. The Boulton boys badminton

team then beat Yardleys School to win the badminton final, after it being the first time that they had entered the tournament. Both teams have now qualified to play in the Birmingham Winter Games in February. Lisa Huckstep, Director of Health and Wellbeing at Ark Boulton Academy in Small Heath, said, “We were absolutely thrilled with both of these wins. All of the students worked

passionate about track and field and will come out in force and create a great atmosphere like they always do. I first competed in the London Grand Prix in 2005 when the event was in Crystal Palace, this will be my ninth time to compete in a city I know very well. There are a lot of Jamaicans living in the UK and I always get great support – it is like my home away from home. See you in July.” The London Anniversary Games will also provide a value opportunity for British sprinters to face the best athletes in the world on home soil so close to the Olympic Games. Niels de Vos, Chief Executive of British Athletics said: “Usain Bolt is a global sporting icon. This will be one of the last opportunities for families to attend the Anniversary Games and see him compete. The London Anniversary Games is one of the very best sporting events in Britain and will be even more special this year as it is staged so close to the Olympic Games. I expect the British sprinters to rise to the challenge of facing Usain Bolt and anticipate some electrifying performances from a range of world-class athletes.”

incredibly hard in the run up to their competitions and it showed on the day. They all played with confidence and an incredible level of skill. We couldn’t be prouder of them.” The tournament was organised by the Schools Games Central Partnership with 65 schools involved in the partnership which is based at Small Heath School in Birmingham. The School Games is a national initiative to motivate and inspire millions of young people across the country to take part in more competitive school sport. The School Games are delivered locally by schools, clubs and county sports partnerships, and are supported nationally by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Sport England and Youth Sports Trust.