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NOVEMBER 2021
Positive • Informative • Objective News
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he pandemic has claimed many businesses since it started causing nationwide lockdowns, not least many fitness establishments due to the nature of contact surfaces in the gyms themselves, but one gym to buck that trend is Unique U Sport & Fitness, founded by two friends who met while working as Personal Trainers (PT’s).
Continued on Page 4
W E NE UR AT FE
A 'UNIQUE' T STORY
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By Dr Tony Talburt
O
ne of the features of a modern liberal economy is that people have access to, and accountability from, their elected government representatives. Having access to elected parliamentary representatives is today considered part and parcel of Britain’s democracy. However, is this public access to government officials in need of revision in light of the recent killings of MPs in their constituencies by members of the public? Once again, the nation was in shock as news spread of the killing of Sir David Amess. Conservative member of Parliament, David Amess, died after being stabbed multiple times at his constituency surgery in Essex. Amess was 69 years old and had been an MP since 1983 and had represented Southend West in Essex since 1997. He was attacked at a church in Leighon-Sea. He is the second MP to be killed in just over five years, after the murder of Jo Cox. In 2016, the Labour MP Jo Cox was stabbed and shot dead by a far-right terrorist shortly before holding a surgery. In 2010, another Labour MP, Stephen Timms, was stabbed twice at a constituency surgery by a student radicalised by online videos. In 2000, Andrew Pennington,
IS IT TIME FOR US TO CHANGE THE WAY WE HAVE MEETINGS WITH OUR MPS? an assistant to the Lib Dem MP Nigel Jones, was stabbed to death as he tried to protect Jones from an attacker who stormed his constituency office armed with a sword. Of the five MPs killed since 1979, three of them were from bombings and Jo Cox and David Amess involved stabbings. Two other MPs survived a knife and sword attack. This most recent incident will raise further concerns about the safety of MPs, who routinely hold advice surgeries to which anyone can turn up. According to a report in the Guardian.com (17October 2021) the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, wrote that ‘the very essence of being an MP is to help and be seen by our constituents. They are the people who elected us to represent them, so surely making ourselves
available to them is the cornerstone of our democracy?’ Whilst one MP has suggested there should be a pause in face to face meeting until a thorough review is carried out, adding that a great deal could be achieved by telephone discussions, it seems more people still want face to face meetings to continue. If MPs are to be offered more protection against public attacks, this might come with additional costs and also change the way we do politics in Britain. Home Secretary Priti Patel claims that the government is looking into the possibility of police protection at MPs’ surgeries, and even airport-style scanners at the door, though it is unclear how that would work in venues such as the church where Amess was meeting constituents on Friday. She suggested some measures that could be taken
by MPS include the making of appointments, checking the venues they are visiting and ensuring they are not alone. By the very nature of their jobs, MPs are expected to meet with their local constituencies. In fact, one of the most popular complaints against MPs is that they are often invisible until a few weeks before a general election when they are seeking public votes. Following this latest killing, however, it is likely there will have to be some changes in the way MPs meet with their local constituents. Even if there has to be changes in the future over the ways MPs meet members of the public, this important aspect of British democracy needs to continue otherwise MPs might become less visible and perhaps unaccountable.
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NEWS
THE ST BASILS BIG SLEEPOUT MOVES TO MILLENNIUM POINT
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n Friday December 3, the oldest and biggest sleepout in the UK returns to Birmingham. The new venue for St Basils Big SleepOut 2021 is Millennium Point - and the organisers hope to fill it to capacity. Abigail Vlahakis, the CEO of Millennium Point said: “It is a pleasure to support the important work St Basils achieves every year in tackling youth homelessness. Young people, many of whom have not engaged in education, training or employment, are feeling abandoned by our society. “However, with a little support, these very same young people could be the engineers, doctors and computer scientists of tomorrow which drive our local economy forward. Millennium Point is proud to be working alongside the team at St Basil’s to end youth homelessness.” Usually raising over £100,000, due to the pandemic, last years was cancelled. Organisers hope the challenge of sleeping outside for a night, with hundreds of others, will appeal to thise with a willingness to support young people’s challenges of homelessness through these difficult times. CEO of St Basils, Jean Templeton, said: “St Basils aims to help prevent youth homelessness in the West Midlands, advising and assisting over 4000 young people at risk of homelessness each year, housing over 1000 and supporting some 750 young people at any one time. The money raised from this event will go towards ensuring they feel cared about and have a
l (L to R) Jean Templeton - CEO of St Basils, Abbie Vlahakis - CEO, Millennium Point & Professor Paul Cadman BCU, Millennium Point Trustee and St Basils Board Member safe, decent and affordable home, with trusted, skilled support to enable them to develop and move on with their lives.” The Big Sleepout sees hundreds of people from companies, families and groups taking part
by challenging themselves, raising money and having fun; particularly in the much coveted ‘Creative Shelter competition’ with carboard again provided by long-time supporters Schumacher Packaging.
Barrie Hodge, Head of Fundraising and Communications at St Basils said: “The creativity that some people put into the creative shelter challenge is truly amazing and we recognise that with prizes on the night, but we
never lose sight of why we are doing it in the first place. “All money raised will help services tailored support for young residents to build confidence and gain skills, training and employment to ensure they can
break the cycle of exclusion and homelessness. We need the support of our communities and businesses to ensure we can create a brighter future for Birmingham’s young people.”
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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SPOTLIGHT - UNIQUE U SPORTS & FITNESS
UNIQUE U CELEBRATES A YEAR IN NEW STUDIO
l Co-Founders, Daniel Burke and CJ Smith
Continued from Front Page
Despite the best efforts of COVID-19, Dan and CJ have not only survived during the pandemic, but are thriving since moving to their current location just 12 months ago. Both Birmingham born and bred, and with only a year between them in age, the co-founders of Unique U Sport & Fitness are going from strength to strength. 29 year old CJ Smith was always interested in sport from a young age, both football and athletics, which he pursued throughout his education at Sacred Heart Primary School and Fairfax. “Unfortunately I failed most of my A Levels, I wanted to do something that I enjoyed or something that made me happy, and those subjects weren’t that,” explained CJ. “I began my apprenticeship to become a Level 2 Fitness Instructor over in Dudley, and once I’d completed that I ended up
working at Fitness First as a PT.” It was at Fitness First that CJ first met Dan, who had achieved his level 3 Diploma and had started his PT journey after being a labourer. Daniel Burke grew up in Hamstead, attending Dorrington Academy and Great Barr School, where despite not excelling in education, he managed to get some decent grades before starting down a route of Engineering. But it was while looking around the factory he was working in at 17, he had an epiphany. “There was no sunlight in there, and wherever I looked there weren’t happy faces, and I knew it just wasn’t for me,” Dan reminisced. An avid boxer from the age of 14, Dan had had his heart set on a professional career from boxing until he got an injury. It was at this point that he followed CJ down the Personal Training education route, and their paths crossed at
Fitness First. Both of them had similar experiences being a freelance Personal Trainer, with the overwhelming issue being the fees
to work in the gym. “Eventually the money dwindled down and we had more going out than coming in, so we decided to cut our losses and try something else.” “I was about 22/23 at the time, and I spoke to my dad and asked him if he would be ok with us using his double garage and kitting it out as a gym,” remembered Dan. “He had no idea who CJ was, and he put a lot of trust in us, as there would be all these people coming to the house to use the gym.” After visiting the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, the pair managed to secure a loan of £2,500 to start up the business. “So we scoured the internet for cheap bargains on equipment like rubber matting and dumbbells to get us started,” laughed CJ. Dan and his uncle converted the garage, which was only 20ft by 18ft, adding a shower and a toilet to make it fully self contained,
and on July 1st 2013, they opened their doors for the first time. Since that point, they haven’t looked back. From starting with only a handful of clients per week, they put their blood sweat and tears into the company, improving the brand, putting on more services and increasing their workload. After 6 years of working out of Dan’s father’s garage, an opportunity arose for the pair. “We’d been thinking for a while like ‘Is this it’? “We were kinda outgrowing what we had and it felt like we needed a new challenge within the industry,” Dan continued. While they were finalising on a move to bigger, permanent premises, COVID hit, setting all of their ideas back by a year. “The new studio is only about 10 minutes from our previous location, so we decided on moving during the lockdown, and on October 19th 2020, we officially opened our doors with the new
l The team hosted group sessions at Grand Central at New Street Station for National Fitness Day
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gym.” “For 7 years it was just myself and Dan, but now we’ve increased our team too,” beamed CJ proudly, “because the amount of classes and sessions we put on it was difficult for us to run everything alone let alone also have our PT clients.” Dan and CJ are proud that they have cultured an amazing community feel at the Gym, most evident when new people join them. “That feeling is something that can really get lost when you join a commercial gym, so we’re really happy to have that kind of vibe with our members.” Open Monday to Saturday, with on average 2 morning sessions from 6am onwards, and 2 evening sessions from 6pm, Unique U has a huge variety of sessions to join from HIIT, Boxing and Bodyweight Exercises, to Womens-only classes to give their female clients a safe space to work out. With memberships ranging from £45 a month for Off Peak, only limiting you to 3 sessions per week, and Premium at £65 allowing you into up to 8 sessions per week plus receiving a nutrition guide regarding how to eat well, and how to eat for certain goals, there is a plan to suit everyone. “We recently hosted the Hyrox National Games a few weeks ago, and we also hosted group sessions in Grand Central at New Street Station for National Fitness Day which was great for raising the profile of the gym.” CJ and Dan have worked hard to achieve their dreams, battling against all odds and a global pandemic to ensure that Unique U Sport & Fitness stands strong against it’s rivals, and their message to anyone looking to start their own business, and especially become a Personal Trainer is “to be ready to work hard. It’s tough to break into, but if you give it everything, you will reap the rewards.” It was a pleasure interviewing these two young entrepeneurs, and theit passion was avident in their responses. Birmingham has a lot of talent and with the Commonwealth Games just around the corner, these are the types of young positive and inspirational stories that make Birmingham the strength that it is today. For more information or to sign up, check them out at www.uniqueupfc.com, on Instagram and Facebook at uniqueupfc, and on Twitter at @Unique_UPFC.
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ACTION WE’RE RECRUITING FOR A VARIETY OF ROLES AT BIRMINGHAM 2022.
VISIT BIRMINGHAM2022.COM/JOBS TO FIND OUT MORE.
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
S
hakespeare Martineau’s Birmingham office has supported engineering and manufacturing company Avingtrans plc with its £2.5m participation in a £12.9m fund raise by emerging medtech leader Adaptix. In return for the investment and post the closing of the fund raise, Avingtrans – which designs, manufactures and supplies critical components, modules and systems to the energy, medical and industrial sectors – will own approximately 5.9% of the total issued share capital of Adaptix, which focuses on transforming radiology by allowing low-cost, low-dose 3D portable imaging. The collaboration aims to develop a disruptive business offering, which will bring together low-cost MRI, X-ray and, potentially, ultrasound in a solution that can address a significant proportion of all medical and veterinary imaging procedures – giving enhanced diagnostic capability, initially for orthopaedic imaging. Full service law firm Shakespeare Martineau acted on behalf of Avingtrans – marking its 16th transaction for the business over the past 13 years. Corporate partner Keith Spedding said: “We’re delighted to have worked with our longstanding client Avingtrans once again. “For more than a decade, we’ve seen the firm implement and progress its strategy and we’ve been able to support this with
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
Business & Finance
LAW FIRM SUPPORTS COMPANY’S INVESTMENT IN EMERGING MEDTECH LEADER our international, corporate and medtech expertise. "Working together, Avingtrans and Adaptix will be able to create a broader and stronger offering to customers than what they can deliver alone. I’m looking forward to seeing the collaboration develop over the coming years.”
The target markets for the collaboration include around 28,000 US sites focused on minor injuries (urgent care) and private orthopaedic practices (private practices and ambulatory surgical centres). Steve McQuillan, CEO of Avingtrans, said: “As fellow travellers on parallel disruptive
l Corin Crane, CEO of Black Country Chamber of Commerce
medical imaging paths, we believe that working together will deliver cost and market synergies for both businesses to enhance potential shareholder value through better quality and flexible multi-modal imaging, improving the end customer experience.”
Wolves At Work Connecting Jobs To Residents
WOLVES AT WORK is urging city residents to get in touch and take advantage of a range of employment opportunities highlighted during Wolverhampton Business Week. Employers and organisations currently have vacancies in the public sector, construction, hospitality sector and NHS. The opportunities come at a critical time with the national Furlough scheme drawing to a close. Wolves at Work, a City of Wolverhampton Council and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) employment programme, has helped more
than 6,500 local people into work since March 2017. Its online platform offers easy access to support, training and advertises current vacancies. Around 50 per cent of those gaining employment are aged 18 to 29. Individual work coaches are on hand to support jobseekers to secure new jobs or upskill in existing roles, while receiving mentoring support. Wolves at Work also provides tailored ethical recruitment and workforce development business support. City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, said:
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“Now the furlough scheme has ended we expect there will be a rise in the number of people looking for jobs. “The sterling work that Wolves at Work do is therefore needed now more than ever with people losing their jobs due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. "These are hugely challenging times for residents and businesses and in Wolves at Work we are fortunate to have
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an excellent and well-established model of what collaborative working can achieve when it comes to getting people into and keeping them in work, as well as supporting businesses with skills development. "The Wolves at Work partnership is now needed more than ever to help businesses drive our recovery from this current crisis and reconnect people to job opportunities.”
BCBF Brings The Business Community Back Together THERE WAS A relatively even split of in-person (44 percent) and digital (56 percent) events this year, which included an interesting mix of interactive webinars and workshops as well as exclusive tours and the return of the BCBF Golf Day. Nearly 70 percent of attendees had not been to a business event in the 12 months leading up to the BCBF, which is a great demonstration of how the Festival has been able to bring the local business community back together after a challenging period. Interestingly, around 30percent of attendees were from outside the region, which highlights how accessible digital events are, and the benefit they bring to the programme. James Thomas-Horton, Commercial Director at Casino36 said “Casino36 are delighted to have been part of the BCBF 2021 again this year. The Festival has once again showcased the best the region has to offer and we are proud to be part of that.” Over 85percent of attendees said that the events they had attended had positively impacted their business. This is more important than ever, after the difficulties faced recently. Initiatives like the BCBF provide a great opportunity
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to encourage inward investment and economic growth in the region. Corin Crane, CEO of Black Country Chamber of Commerce reflected on the BCBF said: “This year’s festival was set in a backdrop of genuine business challenges around supply chains, energy costs and staff and customer safety and it has addressed all these issues through knowledge sharing, networking and a wide range of events. “I couldn’t be more pleased with the way that businesses have once again risen to the challenge and run brilliant events across the area. Thanks to everyone who has been involved – you’ve been amazing. “We’ll be back again next year – bigger, louder and with even more energy.” The BCBF will be returning in 2022, further information will be shared on the website. The BCBF relies on sponsorship from organisations across the region. Black Country Chamber of Commerce, Talbots Law and Dudley Business First are Partners for 2021.There is further support from Festival sponsors Thomas Dudley, Walsall Council, Casino36, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and Sandwell Business Ambassadors.
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I
t is estimated that the UK Creative Industries Sector (or ‘CIC’) exported £36 billion worldwide, which accounted for nearly 12% of the country’s services exports. According to the Creative Industries Federation, the CIC consists of advertising and marketing, architecture, crafts, design, film, television, video, information technology, museums, galleries, music, performing arts and publishing, among other forms of creativity. Prior to the global pandemic, this sector contributed £115.9 billion gross value (GVA) to the UK economy. This figure is greater than the value-add of automotive, aerospace, life sciences, oil and gas industries altogether. Furthermore, almost 1 in 6 UK businesses are creatives with 95% employing less than 10 persons. The sector growth was manifested in Scotland by almost 55% and 46% in the West Midlands between 2010 and 2018 (Figure 1). During the pandemic restrictions of 2020 and early 2021, this sector was challenged immensely. Firstly, lack of audience participation had a negative impact on the survival rates of sub-sectors of the industry. Secondly, revenue suffocation, as none of the business segments was allowed to function at 100% ‘throttle’. Aside of facilitating artistic and creative productions, the CIC in part, contributes to positive health and wellbeing of disadvantaged or excluded communities across the country. Oxford Economics predicted that the effects of the pandemic left behind ‘the more fragile part of the sector that could cause irreparable damage socioeconomic damage’. That body estimated that creative industries projected a combined £77 billion turnover loss over the course of 2020
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Leading The Way By Signing Up To The Race Equality Code
The Vast Potential Of The UK Creative Industries Sector with Dr Christopher Johnson
The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 7
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ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.
compared to 2019 (-31%). In the last 10 year alone, the CIC sector grew by three times the UK’s average, with a third of the sector’s labour force operating as self-employed persons. An additional million people are expected to attract this sector by 2030. Global talent is important to this sector if it is to remain a leading, reputable and innovative sector for economic success. However, there are several issues affecting the UK CIC and these must be resolved expeditiously. They include the following: • There is little data on the quality of jobs in this sector. • Great demand for high-level skills such as directors and project managers. • More visibility of talent into career progression is required. • Greater opportunities for professional development and learning. • Very little information on productivity in the creative industries. • Diversity is a persistent challenge for minority ethnic groups. • A better understanding of what employers need from their workforce is vital. Like other emerging sectors, the CIC can realise its true potential if a series of measures are taken to safeguard another health crisis. They must involve public, private and community/ voluntary sector agencies and organisations. Measures should include the following (although not exclusive):• Necessary health regimes in place with venue or locational sanitation. • Maintenance of protocols such as social distancing and hand-washing. • Surveillance instituted to manage new infection rates. • Nutrition programme to help citizens cope with their wellbeing. • Exercise regime to sustain vulnerable and other such persons’ resilience. C
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pen College Network West Midlands is strengthening its commitment to promoting race equality in its organisation by signing up to the RACE Equality Code – the first awarding organisation (AO) in England and Wales to do so. Launched in October 2020 by Birmingham-based The Governance Forum, the RACE Equality Code 2020 is an accountability framework A4_PhoenixAD_02_AW.pdf 1 designed by leading governance experts to assist organisations in
tackling boardroom race equality. It provides one set of standards and overarching accountability framework based on current laws, codes and best practice, and streamlines existing recommendations into actions for organisations across every sector. The national AO has submitted an application to adopt the RACE Equality Code and has reviewed its current position on how it manages equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) 14/10/2021 16:52 in the organisation against the 4 main principles of the code: Reporting, Action,
Composition and Education. The process will require the AO to complete a checklist of provisions to determine what they are already implementing in the organisation and how they fare against the principles of The Code. They will also be asked to score the organisation against a benchmark exercise that helps them to identify additional actions that need to be met and whether they will form part of a wider organisational EDI strategy at board level and in the Senior Leadership Team going forward.
l Kevern Kerswell · Chief Executive Officer at Open College Network West Midlands
THE MODERN WAY TO FUND CARE
Unfortunately,
one of life’s inevitabilities is that as we grow older our health starts to deteriorate and our reliance on support for our care needs increase. Sadly, every year over 50,000 elderly people are forced to sell their homes to fund their care. There are few options available to the growing number of the older generation, who need to pay care home fees.
If you or your family require help with care funding, our care advice partner My Care My Home offer a free impartial information and advice service informing you of all
For those thinking of selling their Charity owned; Shaw Lifetime Care (SLC) are currently the only home to fund the costs of their care, they may want to reconsider. providers of this solution. The Care and Home Inheritance Plan The recent Government “CHIP®” could help fund your care announcement to cap care for as long as you require without costs in England will not be the need to sell your home. Dr implemented until at least Neslyn Watson-Druee (CBE), a October 2023, and realistically Trustee of The Shaw Foundation may not be the solution for the (TSF), the charity which developed vast majority of those seeking this solution was recently quoted ways to finance their care home as saying “we believe that no one fees today or in the future. should be forced to sell their There is a modern way to home to pay for care. We have pay for care. spent many years developing this solution which we hope will help Leasing your home to a company growing numbers of families is a new solution, where they across England and Wales from become legally obliged to pay an selling their home to pay for care”. agreed contribution towards your The solution is available to all who chosen care home costs, directly meet the criteria and is not to the care home operator. The subject to any medical assessments. great thing is that you still own Each CHIP® is personalised, the property and all future depending on our clients’ increases in its value, allowing circumstances. you to retain ownership within your family.
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
RESILIENCE THE KEY AT WBBN BUSINESS CONFERENCE
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he WBBN (Wolverhampton Black Business Network) 5th Annual Business Conference saw business leaders gather to celebrate their continued creation of opportunities in the region. The Network works with various organisations and business groups, as well as the city council, to maintain economic growth. Held at the Novotel
Wolverhampton, and led by speakers on the night including;– Founder & CEO of Micro Fresh Ltd, Keano Chang – President & Co-Founder of iknowa & former Cognitive Strategist at IBM, Jennifer Samuels of Ferrinje Hair and David Pattison – Chief Operating Officer at City of Wolverhampton Council. “It’s all about resilience,” said WBBN Executive Director, Sam Duru. “And its also about encouraging each other and never quitting. You will get there!” Introducing The Phoenix
Newspaper’s Founder and Editor In Chief Dr Marcia McLaughlin as a very Special Guest, he then introduced Deputy Leader Councillor Simkins, who said: “Wolverhampton is a great diverse place to live and the WBBN Network is a mirror image of that message. "We have a real live programme, especially in diversity, and we want everyone in the city to be part of our economic growth.” David Pattison, the Council’s Monitoring Officer, added: “We have a chance for the council and
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the community to get together and the key for me is that we will listen and look to make good of a real chance to make a real difference." Kevin Davis, Chief Executive of The Vine Group and Director at the Black Country LEP, said: “I’m a social entrepreneur and I want to make a difference. "That’s why I set up 3 secondary schools to pursue justice for disadvantaged children." Anthony Davis (CEO Jamaican Original Patties), highlighted his journey. “I was in alarms first, but ventured into the Caribbean patty business, which recently celebrated 50-years and are now in CostCo, Asda, Iceland Food Warehouse, Farmfoods, Heron Foods, B&M, and independent retailers UK-wide."
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He opened Original Patties first kiosk – in The Bullring, in Birmingham – where the patties are made fresh - and are in talks with other shopping centres in UK. “The key,” he says, “is to have a plan, and stick with it.” Byron Dixon OBE, told the story of his business - Micro Fresh Ltd. Born in London, he grew up in Leicester. He worked at Zenica Shoes, before working for Ecco Shoes, in Denmark, during which he did a “whistle-stop tour of the world,” before returning to the UK, to then start his own Micro Fresh Limited, and work on a project to improve the condition of shoes technology. “Kevin (Davis) massively inspired me to go on the Goldman Sachs Business Growth Programme,” he recalls, “and it was the best thing I ever did for the business. And, for that, I recommend anyone starting business to get involved with it.” Jennifer Samuels told of her invitation to teach hair dressing at Parkfield High School, then Wolverhampton College – before setting up the first recognised African-Caribbean hair qualification course.
After 4-years of teaching; “I decided to set-up my own business – ‘Ferrinje Hair & Beauty’ in 2005. “The way it was set-up allowed me to continue lecturing and, despite several adversities, I remained determined.” She was approached by Avlon (The Science of Hair) to represent the brand and teach worldwide. “The spending capacity is there – especially in the Black community,” she said: “it’s all about ‘resilience’.” Keano Chang - a prodigy of Kevin Davis – said: “It’s all about careful preparation and planning.” After university, he was a Cognitive Strategist at IBM, but; “I wanted a further challenge, so I set-up my own business. “Now I’m independent as president and co-founder of iknowa, with lots of great market places for our business to flow.” The Wolverhampton Black Business Network Annual Business Conference is continuing to deliver – on all angles for business growth.
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IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A BIT LIKE CHRISTMAS…
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irmingham’ Frankfurt Christmas Market has now taken shape, as the city prepares for the festive attraction’s return. The distinctive chalets, bars and landmark Christmas tree, have take shape after work on building the market began last month. The return of the Frankfurt Christmas Market will help bring some festive cheer back to the city centre, after the popular event was cancelled due to the pandemic last year. This year’s event, which runs until December 23, will be smaller - with 56 stalls - with ongoing public realm works in Victoria Square. The market, which celebrates its 21st year, brings with it the traditional festive aroma of hot gluhwein, schnitzel and spicy sausage, which will fill New
Street and Victoria Square for seven weeks. This year’s event comes with the caveat of change or cancellation, should Covid restrictions come back into effect during the winter. Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of Birmingham's great festive events, attracting millions of people to the city centre - so it's great to see it return for its 21st year after it was cancelled due to the pandemic last year. I’d like to thank everyone involved in planning and staging the Market who works so hard, all year round, to make this such a wellrun and special festive event.” Frankfurt City Council’s Director of Festivals and Events, Kurt Stroscher, said: “We are so happy to come back to Birmingham this year and looking
forward to seeing people enjoying the Market’s festive cheer – we’ve missed being part of the city’s Christmas celebrations. “Last year's decision to cancel the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market was made with a very heavy heart. In planning this year's return we've introduced Covid safety measures to ensure
we protect the public, traders and visitors." The big wheel and ice rink also return to Centenary Square (opening from November 4 until 9 January 2022), between 10am and 10pm (except on Christmas Day).
Mayoral Statement On Net Zero Strategy Plus Heat And Buildings Strategy
COMMENTING on the strategies, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “As the home of the green industrial revolution we are already developing the solutions to achieve our own ambitious target of becoming a net zero region by 2041. “So, we welcome the announcement of these two new strategies in which government sets out a clear path on how the UK can reach its national net zero target by 2050. “Our automotive and transport industries are already leading the world in the move to net zero. The further investment announced in the Net Zero Strategy will help support this important sector and our future economic prosperity. “We are also pleased to see the establishment of a net zero forum which will bring together central, regional and local government. We have been working closely with government on this following our Net Zero Summit in July.
“We now look forward to building on this partnership with government. We are hungry to go further and faster towards net zero but regions like the West Midlands will need long-term funding, powers and responsibilities to make that happen. “As regional leaders, we understand our economies best and recognise that ‘onesize solutions’ will not fit all. While some regions will lead on energy generation, the West Midlands is leading innovation on its distribution and use. “The race to zero can generate tremendous economic opportunities for the region, with the potential to create more than 90,000 jobs for local people over the next two decades. The continuing growth of the low carbon and green industries in the West Midlands can play a critical role in achieving net zero and crucially, with the right investment, in the wider levelling-up of the UK economy.”
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EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT
g n i t o Prom xcellence E
As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.
FREE ACTIVITY DAYS GIVE A TASTE OF LEADERSHIP A multi-award-winning education provider is giving primary school children the chance to enjoy a free day of challenges and activities as part of a new initiative. MPCT Young Leaders – devised by Motivation Preparation College for Training - is a specially designed programme for primary schools, to support the National Curriculum. And its aim is to give school children the skills and resilience they need to become healthier in body and mind.
To launch the initiative MPCT is offering free taster days to give primary schools the chance to find out more about the syllabus, which is delivered one day a week, inschool via a choice of programmes. Its aim is to help schools meet Ofsted’s requirements by teaching those in Years 4, 5 and 6 a range of invaluable life skills, from decision making and critical thinking, to teamwork, communication and leadership. Created to be both fun and challenging the Young Leaders programmes also teach pupils the
impact of food and nutrition on health and wellbeing and the skills to adopt healthy behaviours. They are shown how to value the feelings, wishes, and rights of others, learn about honesty and the importance of strong moral principles and develop a strong work ethic and desire to succeed. The programmes are implemented by MPCT’s highly trained instructors who hold a wealth of experience and qualifications in both the military and education sectors and are fully DBS vetted.
Pupils And Parents Encouraged To Put Their Best Foot Forward
Hunt For Next Big Designer BRITISH AWARD-WINNING luxury jeweller, ROX, has launched a nationwide jewellery design competition, Future Makers, to help find the next generation of jewellery makers. The competition is open to all aspiring jewellery designers and makers, with entrants invited to submit a commercial jewellery design which will be manufactured by ROX in their jewellery workshop. The winner will also receive a four-week internship with the jeweller. Founded in 2002, ROX specialises in bespoke jewellery diamond rings and luxury watches. Kyron Keogh, the co-founder of ROX and one of three judges who will help to select the winner of the competition, said: “We truly believe that British jewellery designers are still among the best jewellery designers in the world. Jewellery making is one of the few crafts that remains very true to its roots in the modern world. While modern technology has aided design, the traditional techniques of jewellery crafting have remained consistent from when they first started. In addition to an overall winner, nine runnersup will be invited to a champagne reception where ROX ten favourite designs will be showcased in a gallery format in-store.
PUPILS AND PARENTS in the UK were encouraged to put their best foot forward and to step out for Living Streets' International Walk to School Month which is now underway. Hundreds of thousands of children and families nationwide swapped the school run for a school walk during October, either by leaving the car at home or parking further away from the school or hopping off the bus a stop early and walking the rest of the way. Experts recommend that children are physically active for at least 60 minutes a day to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight – and walking to school is an easy way to achieve some of these active minutes. Children who travel
actively to school will arrive feeling refreshed and ready to learn, and evidence suggests they will do better in class and be happier, healthier and more independent as a result. Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: "A generation ago more than two thirds of children walked to school, but now it's dropped to half. “There are so many benefits from choosing to walk to school rather than driving, from improving the health and wellbeing of children and their parents to helping to reduce congestion and pollution, and so I encouraged all our schools, children and families to take part in this very important campaign."
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EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT
SHE IS A WRITER, illustrator, and graphic design educator at Tennessee State University, an HBCU in Nashville, TN. Kaleena Sales’ research focuses on Black culture and aesthetics, and her recent illustration work has been selected for inclusion in the 2021 Communication Arts Illustration Annual. Kaleena is co-author of the book, Extra-Bold: A Feminist, Inclusive, Anti-Racist, Non-Binary Field Guild for Graphic Designers, alongside Ellen Lupton and a diverse group of other designers. Through her service on AIGA’s Design Educators Community Steering Committee, Kaleena has advocated for a more inclusive view of design history through her Beyond the Bauhaus writing series. She also serves as Director of Diversity and Inclusion for AIGA Nashville.
NEW ENGINEERING APPRENTICESHIPS EMPLOYER KITE MARK LAUNCHED
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ake UK has partnered with support platform Next Gen Makers to develop a ground-breaking Engineering Apprenticeships Employer Kitemark, which will recognise companies who achieve a best practice benchmark, and thus endorse them as an exemplary employer of apprentices.
Launched on National Manufacturing Day, the kitemark will be available to companies that are part of the recently launched Engineering Apprenticeships: Best Practice Programme – a Make UK backed initiative designed to support manufacturers to overcome skills challenges and build talent for future success. It is open to any UK engineering or manufacturing company
that is running an engineering apprenticeship programme. The feedback of current Apprentices and Training Providers is a key part of the criteria in awarding the kitemark to employers, in addition to the company being benchmarked against industry best practice on an annual basis during their journey within the programme. The Engineering Apprenticeships: Best Practice Programme equips manufacturers
with the tools they need to better plan for, attract and retain apprentices. It provides a host of best practice resources and peer to peer discussion forums to enable engineering and manufacturing firms of all sizes to replicate proven methods adopted by others that have successfully run apprenticeship schemes for some time. Stephen Phipson, Make UK CEO, commented: “This kitemark
complements and builds on the programmes that Make UK and Next Gen Makers have already developed which are key to helping place apprentices and enable employers to bridge the skills gap which is currently affecting the sector.” Make UK and Next Gen Makers recently hosted a special webinar for employers who are interested in finding out more about the kitemark, and how their organisation can get involved.
KannehMason
BCU offers Zoom with Kaleena Sales
Isata
Town Hall 25 November Book Online: bmusic.co.uk Box Office: 0121 780 3333
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WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE
THERESA KACHINDAMOTO GIVING CHILDREN THEIR CHILDHOOD BACK
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heresa Kachindamoto could not have imagined ever leaving her job in a college in Zomba, in Southern Malawi. But, after 13-years of dedicated service, and following a 2012 United Nations survey, which found that more than half of the country’s girls were married before the age of 18, she was appointed the paramount chief, or Inkosi, of the Dedza District, with informal authority over more than 900,000 people to dissolve the litany of child marriages – and, in its stead, encourage education for both girls and boys. Malawi - one of the poorest countries in the world, and has an HIV infection rate of 10% of the population - is the 8th out of 20 countries thought to have the highest child-marriage rates in the world and she was disturbed when she found the high rates of child
marriage in her district. She couldn’t persuade the children’s parents to change their long-standing views, but she was able to get the 50 sub-chiefs in the district to agree to abolish early marriage and annul existing unions. Theresa Kachindamoto had the blood of chiefs – Malawi’s traditional authority figures – running through her veins, as the youngest of 12 siblings, a woman, and a mother of five, but she never expected to become a senior chief to the more than 900,000 people. She was told that she had been chosen because she was good with people, and that she was now the chief. Though mild-mannered, he fired four sub-chiefs responsible for areas where child marriages continued, later reinstating them when she had confirmation that these marriages had been annulled
and convinced community leaders to change the civil code to ban early marriage. Since 2019, she has managed to have over 3,500 early marriages (which are customary in Malawi) annulled, with her actions bringing her international recognition from around the world. She was shocked when she saw girls as young as 12 with babies and teenaged husbands, and was soon ordering the people to give up their ways. “I told the chiefs: ‘Whether you like it or not, I want these marriages to be terminated,” she said, adding: “I said to the chiefs that this has got to stop, or I will dismiss them.” A United Nations survey in 2012 found that more than half of the girls in Malawi were married before they reach 18, and ranked the country as having one of the highest rates
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of child marriages in the world, with particularly high rates in rural areas. The constitution and the customary law administered by the traditional authorities still say that children can marry if the parents agree. Presenting a character at odds with her fearsome reputation of being Malawi’s top marriage terminator, mildmannered Theresa Kachindamoto is determined to change a ‘custom’ which denies children of their childhood.
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MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS
NOVEMBER 2021
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THE BRITISH VOCALIST IS BACK WITH A GREATEST HITS ALBUM AND 2022 TOUR DON'T FORGET - STREET CRED PODCAST EPISODE 3 - 1ST NOV - 6PM
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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT
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El Gouna celebrating the best of Arab productions
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he fifth edition of El Gouna Film Festival kicked-off in Egypt as a host of stars graced the red carpet at the festival plaza. Disaster nearly struck this year's event after a fire ripped through the red-carpet area around its main open-air auditorium, some 36 hours before its opening ceremony. Emergency services were quick to respond and there were no major casualties. Locals worked through the night to repair the damage. Festival organisers extended
their gratitude to the Civil Defence Forces and the Red Sea Governorate for their tremendous assistance, in a statement released later. Samih Sawiris, founder of the film festival, said that he had never been so proud, adding: "I have seen those 1,600-andsomething people work nonstop - most of them even didn't sleep. As a result, you could see that you could have hardly seen that there was one of the biggest fires in Egypt in the last few years." Celebrating Arab productions, El Gouna – which took place in
the Red Sea resort town of El Gouna - showcased 52 feature films from 36 territories and another 23 short films from a further 34 countries. A total of 16 films competed for the festival’s Golden Star award for the best narrative film as well as other prizes. The festival, the most successful in terms of audience numbers and experiences of the cinema professionals in attendance, saw packed screenings for ‘Feathers’ and Mohamed Diab’s Venice Horizons title ‘Amira’ while regional cinema professionals
were out in force for the CineGouna project platform. It was one of the biggest MENA industry events since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020. Other highlights included a masterclass with US director Darren Aronofsky and a cinema concert conducted by Ahmed El-Saedi, the music director and principal conductor of the Cairo Symphony Orchestra, featuring the music of films such as ‘2001: A Space Odyssey,’ ‘Out Of Africa,’ ‘Amadeus’ and ‘The Mission’.
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FINALLY RETURNS FOR 2021 C
elebrating their 25th LIVE event in 2021, the fabulous Festive Gift Fair has been the #1 event for Christmas shopping in the heart of England for over two decades. Missed by thousands last year, this ever popular 4-day event is back again in November and looking forward to re-uniting 300 stallholders with 1,000’s of highspirited shoppers. Once again offering a fabulous choice of gifts, decorations, food and drink in a jolly atmosphere with live music and festive entertainers. Dedicated to Christmas shopping and catering for all your needs over the seasonal period, the busiest and most established Fair in the Midlands has lots to offer in 2021 ...
FABULOUS FOODIE SECTION
Companies NEW to the fab foodie section this year are Whistler’s Storm – the newest
alcoholic tea brand to hit the market. Campbell’s Chutneys – handmade mustards, marmalades, pickles and preserves. Limpopo Biltong – The snack The Lions could not handle! Schokolat Scotland – unique chocolate gifts made to look like teapots, tools and so much more! Back by demand are favourites including Ace Tea London, The Tipsy Tart, Popcorn Kitchen, Cheshire Cheese, Condessa Welsh Liqueurs and Georgie Porgies Puddings.
GIFTS IN GENERAL
So many wonderful new companies this year it’s been difficult to select just a few! NEW in 2021 include Rebel Records and Toys – music vinyls, cd’s and music memorabilia. Big Chief Studios - licensed character collectables Star Wars, Doctor Who, Only Fools and Horses, Dad’s Army, James Bond, Mr Bean etc.
Wish Upon Threads Embroidered apparel inspired by characters from hobbies and films. Popular favourites returning include Football Stadium Photography, Kensington Collection, MacDonald China and The Perfume Shop.
DÉCOR FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON AND BEYOND!
Always popular, joining us again are favourites including Delightful Decorations, 1 Stop Christmas Shop and The Rugshack. NEW include At Home for Christmas – Christmas wreaths. Finishing Touches – Christmas rugs and cushions. Step Into Christmas – everything LED from Lanterns to fairy dolls! Foy & Co Interiors – luxury cushions and throws.
FOR THE KIDS (YOUNG & OLD!)
More companies than ever before…, seems like the kids are
going to get spoiled this year!!! NEW include Maria Valentina Baby – trendy clothes and shoes for baby and children. Christmas Board Games – Christmas Eve The Race To Help Santa!, Grace’s Book Adventures – kid’s books and colouring activity sets. Be inspired and get your festive preparations off to a flying start at the Festive Gift Fair. With ticket prices so affordable bring friends and family with you for a funfilled day Christmas Shopping. Tickets are available on-line from just £6 per adult (plus fulfilment fee). The Fair is open daily 9.30am5pm from Thursday 18th – Sunday 21st November at the NEC, Birmingham. For much more information, including videos, show highlights, exhibitor list, show offers and all the Live Performers, check out www.festivegiftfair.co.uk
COMPETITION The Festive Gift Fair have given us 10 pairs of tickets for this years event. For your chance to win a pair of tickets to use on any day that the Festive Gift Fair is at Birmingham's NEC, answer this question!
According to the well known Christmas Song, what are roasting on an open fire? a) Marshmallows b) Chestnuts c) Chocolates Just email your answer, with your name, address, and contact number to competitions@streetcredmagazine.com with the subject “Festive Gift Fair 2021”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 14th November 2021. There is no cash alternative.
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Food & Fine Dining BBC Good Food Nation survey reveals influx of kitchen gadgets B BC Good Food Nation, the annual national survey carried out by BBC Good Food, has revealed spending so much time at home during the pandemic has led to an influx of kitchen gadgets, with over half (52%) of people surveyed having bought new cooking or kitchen equipment in the last year. Coffee machines were the most popular gadgets, bought by 13% of people surveyed, and they were the most used purchase, with barista-style coffees being made an average of 5 times a week. The next most popular were air fryers (12%), slow cookers (11%), and smoothie makers (8%) – linked to the onein-four people (26%) who said they prioritised eating healthily over the past year. BBC Good Food Nation also reveals a dramatic shift in our drinking habits over the past year. Almost half of people surveyed (48%) have been drinking more water since the pandemic began, with just over a fifth (21%) saying much more water. The rise in popularity of
alternative milks continues with a fifth (20%) of people surveyed say they have been drinking more alternative milks since the pandemic began. And when it comes to alcohol, almost equal numbers of people saying they are drinking more alcohol (20%) and drinking less alcohol (23%). Christine Hayes, Editor in
Chief of BBC Good Food, said: “Spending time in the kitchen, preparing meals that sustain us and support our health and well-being has been a mainstay for many people throughout the pandemic – it’s great to hear that 40% of people say their kitchen is their happy place.” Top findings – BBC Good
Group Turning Their Food Waste Into Electricity In All Of Their Restaurants
AN INDEPENDENT restaurant group, based in Cheltenham, is starting off their green initiative by making sure none of their waste is sent to landfill. The Gloucestershire group, JM Socials, has made the switch to zero landfill - as part of a sustainability plan. On top of regular plastics, paper and tin recycling, the group will be using a waste disposal company that turns food and packaging waste
into electricity. They do this through an incinerating process by capturing carbon and transferring it into energy. They're now running this green initiative throughout each of their Cheltenham restaurants Holee Cow, Holee Cowless, Holee Clucker, Prithvi, Bao + BBQ and Bhoomi Kitchen (also in Oxford). One half of the JM Socials duo, Michael Raphel said: “This is a great opportunity for us to start
Food Nation 2021 • Over half (52%) of people surveyed have bought new cooking/kitchen equipment in the last year. • A coffee machine (13%) was the most popular gadget bought and the most used – with coffee • machines bought in the last year being used almost 5 times a week. • Over a quarter (27%) people surveyed said they don’t have enough appliances/cupboard space to • accommodate how much they now cook. • 40% said their kitchen is their happy place in their home. • Almost half (48%) people surveyed have been drinking more water since the pandemic began, • with just over a fifth (21%) saying much more water. • A fifth (20%) adults surveyed have been drinking more alcohol since the pandemic began. • And over a fifth (23%) have been drinking less alcohol since the pandemic began.
our new sustainability journey. It's clear that switching to zero landfill is the best first step in our plan. “We've lined up a series of sustainability projects, and these should be announced in the near future. We're really excited to continue on this new green path and we hope that other businesses will follow suit.” JM Socials, started by Michael Raphel and Jay Rahman, are set to open two more sites from the end of this year: Circo Brasserie and For The Saints, an espresso bar in Montpellier.
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l Pushkar won 2 gongs at the English Curry Awards
Birmingham Restaurant Scoops Double Award At English Curry Awards BIRMINGHAM’S PUSHKAR Cocktail Bar & Dining scooped the 'Best of Birmingham' and ‘England’s Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year’ awards at the 10th English Curry Awards 2021. The 10th English Curry Awards took place at the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport-NEC, in a celebration of the English curry industry. Guests from across the country celebrated the best in the curry industry and awards saw curry houses across England recognised for their graft, dedication and hospitality. The black-tie event was hosted by DJ and radio presenter, Tommy Sandhu, who announced that Broad Street-based restaurant, Pushkar Cocktail Bar and Dining, had won the ‘Best of Birmingham’ and
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‘England’s Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year’. Rai Singh, Creative Director at Pushkar commented: “We’re delighted to be crowned The Best in Birmingham, and to also have the crown for Fine Dining Restaurant Of The Year competing against restaurants across the whole of England is the icing on the cake. Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years.” CEO of Oceanic Consulting, Irfan Younis, said: “We are honoured and delighted to have such great finalists and winners representing the English curry industry and enhancing its reputation nationally and internationally. We were very happy to welcome the guests and celebrate with them. Congratulations to all finalists and winners!”
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HANGING OUT WITH HIGGINS
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MONTHLY COLUMN steve@stevehigginsproductions.com www.stevehigginsproductions.com
DETERMINATION – THAT’S WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT! W hat would make a chronic asthmatic, with a serious back injury, decide to test fate and allow her mind and passion to lead her against all odds? This asthmatic had long avoided all sports because of that chronic condition but became heartbroken when her physicians told her that she had to do back surgery. She said to herself “Heck, No!”, then decided instead to do her own research! Shernette Levy is no stranger to hard work and a focused mind set on accomplishing her goals. Whether as a student at Excelsior High School in Jamaica or in her MBA classes in South Florida, she always had grit and
determination, only to be outdone by her own straightforwardness (a.k.a ‘feistiness’ in Jamaican parlance). Shernette met a wholistic practitioner, who advised her to “strengthen my core, which would assist with strengthening my back muscles and help alleviate the pain”. That she did and was making wonderful progress. In fact, she returned to working out at the gym, lifting weights dieting, and in going through her routines, she started seeing a transformation of her body. Well, she loved what she saw and got hooked! The global pandemic caused some of us to reflect on our lives, making us even more determined to pull from within for a cause. For some however, it fueled
depression, and Shernette was no exception. She still had to take care of her injured back, gyms were closed, and she was not even able to leave her house. Things started looking up however, when she became part of a newly formed online exercise group that kept her busy again! A few months later, she was so impressed by her progress that she started inquiring into the possibility of an older woman entering the sport of bodybuilding and was amazed at how many women were actually in this sport. But the audacity of it all- After all, she is all of 50 years old! Well, she found a Jamaican owned gym, and the rest is history. To date, Shernette has competed
in seven NPC body building competitions and have amassed trophy wins in every show in which she has competed. Last weekend (October 16th, 2021), Shernette competed in the Ultimate Grand Prix in Boca Raton, Florida where she won first place in both Masters 40 (open to women who are 40 years and older) and Masters 45 (open to women who are 45 years and older). Additionally, she placed third in Open Class F (She was the oldest competitor among women in their 20s). She walked away last weekend with two swords, two rings, and three medals; a sword, a ring and a medal are presented to the first-place winner of each category.
l Shernette Levy A year ago, Shernette performed very poorly at this same show and was so disheartened. However, she took the feedback for areas of improvement to her trainer and let that loss fuel her drive to achieve her desired objectives. Her 2022 goal is to compete for a professional title and win her Pro-card. Her bodybuilding journey has not been easy, it takes a special kind of dedication and determination to achieve your desired results. There are early mornings, late nights, meal plans, etc. Success is not for the faint of heart! Follow Shernette on Instagram or on Facebook!
MUSIC UNITES JAMAICA FOUNDATION
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or a country so tiny, Jamaica’s influence on the world is nothing short of legendary. We know about Jamaican athletes burning up the tracks in sprint events at the Olympics and World athletic metes and the repeated unbeaten world records. This little dot on the map ‘led’ the charge against apartheid early in the day while Nelson Mandela was in prison, decried social injustice in the world, promoted love for your Brother
as well as positive life lessons; Like many cultures, our stories are told through our music. But are we aware of Jamaica’s classical, patriotic, or church music? Or our composers and those who work tirelessly to promote their work? Meet Austrian-Jamaican musician Rosina Moder (Ashbourne)! Rosina, Austrian by birth, left her homeland in 1985, inspired by close friends Monte Alexander, Lance Lumsden among others to visit Jamaica. Her friend, a US Diplomat
posted in Jamaica, contacted the Director of the Institute of Jamaica, Vivian Crawford, and soon, an Ash Wednesday musical Concert was organized at the St Andrews Parish Church in Kingston. Peter Ashbourne was on the violin and Paul Bicknell on piano. Some time after that soldout performance in Jamaica, Rosina returned home. She was at the high point of her career in Austria, being a recorderlecturer at the Universität Mozarteum - Carl Orff Institut Salzburg, Austria. She specialized in the interpretation of Baroque music under the tutelage of her professor Nikolaus Harnoncourt. At the urging of Olive Lewin, Pamela O’Gorman (then school of music Director) and others, Rosina returned to Jamaica and got busy with Music workshops at the Jamaica School of Music, Mico Teacher’s college, and taught voluntarily at the SOS Children’s Villages (Kingston
& Montego Bay). Rosina noticed that in Jamaica, one heard of “music arrangers”, not necessarily “composers”. This struck a nerve, as she did get married to the very talented composer, Peter Ashbourne. She also befriended JamaicanGuyanese composer, Historian and journalist, Clyde Hoyte, who wrote the beautiful Christmas carol “Jamaica Noel” and Samuel Felsted. Well, she decided to do something about promoting Jamaica’s composers. In 1994 she founded RCM Music Foundation, and in 2009, selected a board and registered an NGO under the name “Music Unites Jamaica Foundation”. Their mission“We seek to expand the awareness of Jamaica's longstanding musical heritage through music workshops and free concerts island wide. We aid in the sourcing of scholarships and instruments for talented students with financial
constraints. We are committed to the research, preservation and promotion of the works of Jamaican composers of Classical, Patriotic, and Church music, as well as music written for Theatre, Dance, Film and Media. Inter-cultural exchange activities and the administration of the Samuel Felsted Chamber Orchestra are also part of our mission”. Special mention: Peter Ashbourne was instrumental in the development of Karen
Smith’s singing career. She was one of the most loved Jamaican singers ever, by people from all walks of life. A scholarship fund was established in an effort to honour her and keep her name alive. This scholarship will be awarded to a student of the Jamaica School of music student. Visit https://www. musicunitesjamaica.com/ and please donate!!!!
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Sam Fender announces 2022 Spring UK Arena Tour
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am Fender has announced details of a new UK arena tour for Spring 2022. The nine shows, Sam and his band’s biggest to date, kick off at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham on 20th March, and ends with a homecoming show at Utilita Arena, Newcastle on 5th April. The run includes a night at the SSE Wembley Arena on 1st April. Sam will also play a Summer open
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air show at Castlefield Bowl in Manchester on 6th July. Pre-sale tickets available from 9am Wednesday 13th October. For early access, pre-order the new album before 5pm Tuesday 12th October. Tickets are on general sale from 9am on 15th October. The remainder of Sam and his band’s (the eclectic six-piece from Tyneside) long since sold out rescheduled shows will conclude this November, with two nights at London’s Alexandra Palace, and
IS BACK WITH GREA
A shows in Glasgow, Cardiff, Leeds, and Newcastle. His return to the live arena this Summer has been explosive, seeing Sam play to hundreds of thousands of fans on festival stages and at his rescheduled headline dates right across the UK. He released his eagerly anticipated and already acclaimed second album, Seventeen Going Under, yesterday (Friday 8th October).
fter announcing details of a ‘Greatest Hits’ tour which commences in March 2022, James Morrison is excited to announce details of his first ever ‘Greatest Hits’ album, which will be released on 11th February 2022. He today launches the album by sharing his new single ‘Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?’, which is one of two new songs that appear on the collection along with ‘Don’t Mess With Love’. Listen HERE. Watch the video HERE. In a twist on the ‘Greatest Hits’ format, James Morrison returned to the studio with his long-term producer Mark Taylor to record new versions of thirteen of his classic songs alongside his regular live band. James calls on fifteen years of experience to breathe fresh life into the songs. Not only has his voice matured - with a richer, deeper, more soulful timbre - but his live performances have uncovered other layers to the material, in many cases emphasising different elements to the original recordings. And just like fans will find their interpretations of his lyrics changing as time passes, so does James. He was just 21-years-old when he first hit the limelight, and he has experienced so much in the intervening years: a long-term relationship, children, the loss of family and friends, huge career highs, and moments of selfdoubt. All of those things have inspired him - sometimes directly, others subliminally to interpret his original lyrics in new ways, and he’s never sounded better as a result. James Morrison commented, “It’s been fifteen years since I started releasing music, and many of my songs over time have taken on a new life of their own: new emotions, new meanings and new feels both from the way I perform them and in the way my band has played them. I’ve also become a better singer and inhabit the songs in a different way now. "I wanted to reflect all of that on this ‘Greatest Hits’ with reworked versions. I love all the original recordings They brought me to where I am today, but I see these new versions as their older siblings, and I really love them too. I’m so pleased with what we achieved here.”
The new single ‘Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?’ shows that his songwriting talents are as strong as ever. The rugged soul of James’s voice hits the essence of the song’s pained subject matter, while its instrumentation captures the turmoil of its emotions. Opening like a 21st century Motown track, it then rockets to life with huge thumping beats that place it directly in the present day, without losing any of the warmth that’s a key hallmark of his style. James’s powers of reinvention take on varying forms throughout the ‘Greatest Hits’ album. Stripped of its popleaning production and Nelly Furtado’s featured vocal, ‘Broken Strings’ is a far more sombre experience that gains a deeper emotional impact. His breakthrough ‘You Give Me Something’ has a more nuanced live feel, not only within the music but also with his now huskier, bluesy tone, while ‘I Won’t Let You Go’ takes on a fervent, gospel-tinged energy. And ‘You Make It Real’ is a particularly stellar example of James channelling all of the ups and downs that come with longterm relationships to sing a love song that comes straight from the heart. Both versions of the songs co-exist very naturally together. The originals still have the freshness that they first had, but now they have a wealth of memories attached to them. Meanwhile, the newer versions show that a great song can evolve very organically over time, especially as an artist’s ability grows in tandem. ‘Greatest Hits’ is now available to pre-order here. James Morrison’s official website offers signed copies of the album on CD and cassette, as well as a signed printed lyric sheet. There are also a selection of bundles compiling your choice of those three items as well as a new t-shirt design. HMV offer an exclusive CD which adds two bonus tracks, while an exclusive signed Amazon version of the album on CD and cassette is also available.
The ‘Greatest Hits’ album recalls many of the landmark moments of James Morrison’s career, with new versions of all five of his Top 10 singles included. His #1 albums ‘Undiscovered’ (5 x Platinum for 1.5 million sales) and ‘The Awakening’ are both strongly represented, but it also includes selections from ‘Songs For You, Truths For Me’ (#3), ‘Higher Than Here’ (#7) and ‘You’re Stronger Than You Know’ (#14). After winning the BRIT Award for British Male Solo Artist early in his career, James was recently invited by the iconic songwriter Diane Warren to feature on her current album ‘The Cave Sessions, Vol. 1’ with Leona Lewis. It represents James’s second big collaboration of 2021 after his songwriting hero Paul Weller asked him to duet on ‘Broken Stones’ as part of his Live From The Barbican show, a collaboration with Jules Buckley and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Their performance was released as the lead single from Weller’s upcoming album ‘An Orchestrated Songbook’, which will be released on December 3rd. He has also previously worked with Gary Barlow, Nelly Furtado, OneRepublic and Joss Stone.
l Photo credit: Parri Thomas
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The Phoenix Newspaper Countdown To The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Celebrating All Things Commonwealth
Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
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Lilian Bader: An Armed Forces ‘First’ Signs Race at Work Charter l Lilian Bader ONE OF THE very first Black women to join the British Armed Forces, Lilian Bader was born in Liverpool to Marcus Bailey, a merchant seaman from Barbados who served in the First World War, and a British-born mother of Irish parentage. In 1927 she, and her two brothers, were orphaned when their father died. At the age of 9 she was separated from her brothers and placed in a convent, where she remained until she was 20. Bader has explained that it was difficult to find employment 'because of her father's origins: "My casting out from the convent walls was delayed. I was half West Indian, and nobody, not even the priests, dare risk ridicule by employing me." In 1939, at the onset of the Second World War, Bader enlisted in the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes (NAAFI) at Catterick Camp, Yorkshire. She was dismissed after seven weeks when it was discovered that her father was not born in the United Kingdom. On 28 March 1941 she enlisted in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), after she heard that the Royal Air Force (RAF) were taking citizens of West Indian descent. She trained in instrument repair, which was a trade newly opened to women. Lilian Bader then became a Leading Aircraft Woman and was eventually promoted to the rank of corporal.
l Celebrating the winners of the third round of the You Matter Communities Community Fund
BIRMINGHAM GROUPS BENEFIT FROM YOU MATTER COMMUNITIES SCHEME
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he winners for the third round of the You Matter Communities Community Fund have been announced. McLaughlin & Harvey, the lead contractor for Birmingham City Council at the Alexander Stadium Redevelopment, has finalised ten community projects that will each receive a grant of up to £1,000 to support their work within local communities. Launched last year, McLaughlin & Harvey’s You Matter Communities initiative provides support to local communities through volunteer time, small grants, and the use of excess materials from the construction process. The initiative is focused on supporting community organisations, in particular those facing disproportionate challenges, to recover from the
impact of COVID-19. Small grants are offered through the You Matter Community Fund and provide a direct way for McLaughlin & Harvey to make a positive impact locally and provide much needed support to communities. The latest round of successful applicants takes the overall number of organisations to benefit through the Community Fund to 42, with a total of £37,711.46 awarded. Community Development Worker for Birchfield Big Local, Andrew Simmons, said: “Birchfield Big Local is delighted to have been awarded a grant from the You Matter Community Fund. "It will enable us to add a shelter to the Secret Garden – a community garden and outdoor play space – providing a covered space for arts and crafts activities. Parents visiting the garden
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for recent play sessions have commented on the difference that getting out of the house and interacting with other families outdoors has made to their children’s physical and mental health, especially post-COVID. This grant will help us enrich that experience even more.” Projects were selected based on their ability to meet McLaughlin & Harvey’s social value objectives and the Partners in Communities measures of the city council’s Birmingham Business Charter for Social Responsibility. Operations Director, McLaughlin & Harvey for Alexander Stadium, Martin Keys, added: “We are delighted to offer our support to more local community projects in Birmingham through the third and final round You Matter Communities. It has been huge success and has allowed us to
leave a lasting legacy from the redevelopment of Alexander Stadium.”. Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “From the outset, we’ve been clear the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium needs to be about much more than the delivery of a world-class sporting and community facility. “Through the council’s spending power on this project, we have secured in McLaughlin & Harvey a construction partner that understands what it means to be a good neighbour in the community – not just in Perry Barr, but Birmingham as a whole. The You Matter Communities scheme is making a positive difference for many organisations in the city and securing a deeper legacy for the new stadium than just the facilities or events that it stages in future.”
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BIRMINGHAM 2022, the organisers of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, which will be staged from 28 July to 8 August 2022, has officially signed the Race at Work Charter. An initiative, which is designed to improve outcomes for employees from ethnically diverse communities, the Race at Work Charter was launched in partnership with the UK Government in 2018 and builds on the work of the 2017 McGregor-Smith Review. The charter, which has now been signed by more than 750 employers, sets out five actions for signatories like Birmingham 2022 to take: • Appointing an Executive Sponsor for race • Capturing data and publicising progress • Ensuring zero tolerance of harassment and bullying • Making equality in the workplace the responsibility of all leaders and managers • Taking action that supports ethnic minority career progression Birmingham 2022 is already working to deliver on these actions and work to date has included launching an internal network for employees from ethnically diverse communities, appointing an executive sponsor, capturing diversity data and publishing this on the Birmingham 2022 website, developing an EDI framework for all teams within the organisation, and rolling out a mentoring and young leaders programme, which employees from ethnically diverse communities have been encouraged to join.
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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT - STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM
STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM
QUEEN’S BATON RELAY MARKS COMMONWEALTH GAMES COUNTDOWN
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er Majesty Queen Elizabeth II launched the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay, a Games tradition that celebrates, connects and excites communities from across the Commonwealth during the build up to the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022. The Relay began at Buckingham Palace, where Her Majesty placing Her message to the Commonwealth into the Baton. It, now, will be taking on an incredible 294-day journey through all nations and territories of the Commonwealth, arriving back in England in July 2022. The Baton will be travelling an epic international route, spanning an impressive 269 days, spending between two and four days in each nation or territory, covering approximately 90,000 miles (140,000 kilometres), having over 7,500 Baton-bearers trusted with the oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to carry the Baton. It will then visit all 72 nations and territories of the Commonwealth yet will travel almost half the distance than the previous Gold Coast Queen’s Baton Relay in a bid to reduce the carbon footprint. After stopping off at the Falkland Islands, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle
of Man in first three weeks of June 2022, the Relay will have an extended duration of five days in Scotland, four in Northern Ireland, five in Wales and 25 days covering the length and breadth of England. The global journey will conclude at the Birmingham 2022 Opening Ceremony where the final Baton-bearer will return the Baton to Her Majesty The Queen. The Baton was conceived in an innovative West Midlands collaboration that fuses art, technology, and science and champions the individuality in humanity and celebrates bringing people together. With Birmingham 2022 making history by being the first major multi-sport event to award more medals to women than men, the strength and fortitude of women across the Commonwealth is celebrated throughout the design of the Baton. Enhanced with cutting-edge technologies, the Baton will capture data and stories from across the Commonwealth, shining a spotlight on grassroots innovation and celebrating the people driving change within their communities. The Baton features LED lighting and a heartrate sensor that display the heartbeats of Batonbearers.
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Australian Footballer Cavallo Speaks Of Overwhelming Support After Coming Out
l Josh Cavallo AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALLER Josh Cavallo said that he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of global support after coming out as the only known gay men's footballer playing in a top-flight league. On social media the 21-year-old, who plays for Adelaide United in Australia's A-League, said: "I'm a footballer and I'm gay." His decision to go public won plaudits throughout the footballing world and beyond, with legendary Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic tweeting, "You are a champion. Football is for everyone. Big respect." Antoine Griezmann, ¬Marcus Rashford, Raphael Varane, Gerard Pique and David de Gea all tweeted their support. Major clubs including Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan all applauded Cavallo, as did world governing body FIFA, while Spanish giants Barcelona thanked him for taking the huge step. The club said: "Your courage contributes to normalising diversity in the world of sports."
Carnival En Punta Cana Weekend Set For December
NEW VACCINE TO PROTECT AFRICAN CHILDREN AGAINST MALARIA
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hildren across much of Africa are to be vaccinated against malaria in a historic moment in the fight against the deadly disease. Malaria has been one of the biggest scourges on humanity for millennia and mostly kills babies and infants. Having a vaccine - after more than a century of trying - is among medicine's greatest achievements. The RTS vaccine was proven effective six years ago. Now, after the success of pilot immunisation programmes in Ghana, Kenya and Malawi, the World Health Organization says the vaccine should be rolled out across sub-Saharan Africa and in
other regions with moderate to high malaria transmission. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, called it a historic moment, saying: "The longawaited malaria vaccine for children is a breakthrough for science, child health and malaria control. “It could save tens of thousands of young lives each year." Malaria is a parasite that invades and destroys our blood cells in order to reproduce, and it's spread by the bite of bloodsucking mosquitoes. Drugs to kill the parasite, bed-nets to prevent bites and insecticides to kill the mosquito have all helped reduce malaria.
But the greatest burden of the disease is felt in Africa, where more than 260,000 children died from the disease in 2019. It takes years of being repeatedly infected to build up immunity and even this only reduces the chances of becoming severely ill. Dr Kwame Amponsa-Achiano piloted the vaccine in Ghana to assess whether mass vaccination was feasible and effective. He said: "It is quite an exciting moment for us, with large scale vaccination I believe the malaria toll will be reduced to the barest minimum." Constantly catching malaria as a child inspired Dr Amponsa-Achiano to become a doctor in Ghana. "It was distressing, almost
every week you were out of school, malaria has taken a toll on us for a long time," he said. There are more than 100 types of malaria parasite. The RTS,S vaccine targets the one that is most deadly and most common in Africa: Plasmodium falciparum. "From a scientific perspective, this is a massive breakthrough, from a public health perspective this is a historical feat," said Dr Pedro Alonso, the director of the WHO Global Malaria Programme. "We've been looking for a malaria vaccine for over 100 years now, it will save lives and prevent disease in African children.
FOLLOWING great anticipation after their safe and successful Cancun, Mexico edition, the promoters of ‘Carnival En’ are gearing up to activate an intimate, premium all-inclusive Caribbean Carnival weekend this December in the picturesque resort town of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The event ‘Carnival En Punta Cana’ is best described as a Hyper-Inclusive CarnivalInfused Vacation Weekend Experience. With all of the buzz following April 2021’s ‘Carnival En Cancun’ the organizers (known for popular Caribbean Diaspora event staples such as Silent Morning and Water Colours J’ouvert Boat Party) have pulled out all of the stops to bring forth a creative yet authentic Caribbean Carnival experience in a controlled environment complete with all of the beloved elements commonly associated with the festival. And with the pristine, lush Barceló Bavaro Grand Resort lush as its setting, the upcoming weekend of events will offer eager attendees the right mix of class, cuisine, cocktails and Caribbean-style party vibes. Boasting 10 themed restaurants, 5 Buffet, 16 Bars, 7 swimming pools, 7 tennis courts, 2 paddle tennis courts, a bowling centre, an 18-hole golf course, shopping centre, 24-hour casino and spa in addition to many other wonderful facilities and activities, this adultonly beachfront resort located at one of the top 10 beaches in the world presents several amenities for those patrons seeking some leisure and down time in between the excitement of the weekend’s events.
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FORMER ENGLAND STRIKER, LUTHER BLISSETT, FREEMAN OF WATFORD
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l Luther Blissett DL (Deputy Lord-Lieutenant for Hertfordshire)
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ormer England footballer Luther Blissett DL (Deputy Lord-Lieutenant for Hertfordshire) has been made a freeman of the borough of Watford in recognition of his charity work and fight against racism. For over 40 years, he has been strongly involved with the community, championing many projects across the town and tirelessly giving his time and support to local people. Scoring 186 goals in 503 games for Watford, over three spells between 1975 and 1993, he has been involved in countless community projects. Mayor Peter Taylor says of him: "If anyone deserves to have the honour of freedom of the borough, it is Luther Blissett." Overwhelmed by the honour, Luther, 63, said: "From the age of 17, I played for Watford FC, I was their first full England cap and won a golden boot for Europe," he said. “But what made that time even more special was our town and the wonderful golden-hearted people in
it. My football family is right here in Watford.” Scoring a hat-trick on his England debut, Luther, who also played for AC Milan, became the fourth person to currently have the freedom of the borough honour, joining former Watford chairman Sir Elton John. Recipients of the honour are held by the council and people of the borough. The man who mentored Liverpool legend John Barnes during his early career, Blissett's community involvements include making Watford a dementia-friendly town by promoting Golden Memories, a reminiscence programme for people living with low to moderate dementia and their carers at Watford Football Club. Since the Covid pandemic he has also worked with the town's Mayor to promote various appeals, including raising awareness of prostate cancer, and fundraising for the Watford & Three Rivers Trust. The council said: “Luther has also become a leading figure in the fight against racism - not just in football
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but within the whole community in Watford". The first Black footballer to score a hat-trick for the English national team, he became involved with the Show Racism the Red Card charity in the late 1990s, when he was assistant manager to Graham Taylor OBE at Watford. Blissett said: "I was taught by ‘The Boss’, (Graham Taylor), that the debt you owe people for supporting you as a footballer cannot be measured. “He brought us up to understand that everything we did was for the local community, from when we stepped over that white line to enjoy the privilege of playing a match - to the way we conducted ourselves. So, to receive this honour, as he did, to follow in the footsteps of that great man and manager who did so much for our town and our football club is simply a dream come true.” Blissett holds the Watford club record for the most appearances (415) and most goals (158).
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Windrush Monument Chosen To Stand In Waterloo Station
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statue designed by Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson was chosen to stand in London's Waterloo Station as a tribute to the Windrush generation. The 12ft-high (3.6m) statue, selected from a shortlist of four designs, will be of a man, woman and child dressed in their ‘Sunday Best.’ The design will go on display at the station from Windrush Day, on 22 June, 2022. "I feel privileged and truly honoured that I now have this opportunity to express the aspirations, vision and courage of my parents, who took the long sea voyage to England in 1952,” said a proud Basil. “I look forward to bringing my design to life, because I know how much this means to the Windrush community." It is the first public artwork in the UK by Mr Watson, with the sculptures including one of Usain Bolt in Jamaica and one of Martin Luther King in Atlanta. The Jamaican government
awarded Mr Watson the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) in 2016 in recognition of his artistic accomplishment. Backed by £1m of government funding the monument, according to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, will stand as a testament to those who stepped ashore to lay a foundation for their families and their future, influencing and contributing to every aspect of our
society. Watson's design was selected by the independent Windrush commemoration committee, chaired by Baroness Benjamin, a Liberal Democrat peer who said: "This Windrush Monument represents the past, present and future and I hope it will be the catalyst for other monuments commemorating the extraordinary contribution of the Windrush generation to this country."
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NEW LEGACY PROGRAMME FOR YOUNG PEOPLE GEN22
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he Gen22 programme provides employability boosting opportunities for young people from the West Midlands who might otherwise struggle to access the many opportunities arising from the Games. Participants are supported to undertake 30 hours of volunteering, connected to the physical activity and wellbeing, creative, and digital sectors. They will receive support before, during, and after the programme to ensure they are able to maximise the benefits from the opportunity. The initiative has been co-designed by young people to ensure it best meets the needs of the participants
and is something they will enjoy and benefit from. The Gen22 Consultation Group is currently made up of 12 young people from across the West Midlands who face a range of barriers. Participants can be nominated to take part and Birmingham 2022 is looking to work with local organisations who can signpost their young people to the programme as well as providing volunteering opportunities. As part of the launch, the Gen22 team at Birmingham 2022, alongside some members of the consultation panel and people from the local community, transformed a basketball court in Victoria Park,
Smethwick. Nicola Turner MBE, Director of Legacy at Birmingham 2022, said: “Young people told us that some of the opportunities available at the Games, like jobs and volunteering, could be hard to access if you were under 18, had caring responsibilities, or had a criminal conviction. Others said that they had lost confidence during the pandemic and would discount themselves from making an application. “Gen22 was built in partnership with young people, for young people, to offer 16 to 24 year olds a flexible, accessible way to join in with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Starting now, we aim for 1,000 young people to each
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Classes Offered To BAME Businesses BLACK, ASIAN, and Minority Ethnic business founders across the West Midlands are being offered free places on workshops to help boost their businesses as the region continues its economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Coinciding with the launch of Black History Month in October, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is running a series of workshops covering topics such as how to launch a business and creating a better online presence.
take on 30 hours of social action. Assignments might include taking photographs for a local business or volunteering at a sports club. “We know the Games can bring people together and our goal is that the young people taking part in this programme will gain confidence and feel included. "I think 2022 will prove to be a turning point for Birmingham and the region and that people here are ready for it. It is inspiring to imagine the thousand individual legacies and journeys that we can spark with this scheme, and the benefit our communities will feel from the 30,000 hours of social action.” Councillor Millard, cabinet member for culture and tourism,
said: “We were excited to be part of the Gen22 launch at Victoria Park in Smethwick earlier this month. The Gen22 project is part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and will provide an opportunity for thousands of young people in Sandwell and the wider region to gain employability. “I look forward to working with partners on this initiative which will leave a lasting legacy for young people in Sandwell beyond the Games.” Tom McNeil, Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, said: “We believe in the potential of all young people across the West Midlands and are excited to be supporting the Gen22 project
After taking the workshops the business owners will know how to develop a better understanding of their customer profile and journey, as well as how to make their business stand out from their competitors and how to better sell their business. Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands and former managing director of John Lewis, said: “Even despite the pandemic the West Midlands remains one of the leading areas in the country for start-ups, with someone of our best success stories coming from
in helping to create a meaningful legacy from the Games. "Our partnership with the Organising Committee will focus on providing opportunities across the creative, digital and sports sectors to young people who most need them.” Sian Allan, a member of the Gen22 Consultation Group, is taking part in the programme herself. She said: “As someone who sometimes struggles with confidence, it’s been amazing to be part of the Gen22 project from the start. I’ve already started my volunteering hours and can already see the difference it will make for me and my future.”
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diverse backgrounds. “But if we want to keep up our momentum we need to ensure that business owners are being given the support they need to flourish. "That’s why we are running these workshops to help small businesses owners from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds improve their skills to help their enterprises flourish and ultimately make an important contribution to the wider West Midlands economy.” The classes, which started on October 19, will run until December 7 with each start up owner using their new knowledge to deliver a professional business pitch in front of a panellist. Professor Monder Ram OBE, director of the Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship at Aston University, said: “It’s excellent to see expert ‘hands-on’ support being provided to the region’s Black and Ethnic Minority businesses. “We know that they contribute upwards of £25 billion to the economy. Black and Ethnic Minority businesses are also more productive, growth-oriented and likely to trade internationally than their white counterparts.
Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
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ONE STOP SHOP TO HELP MORE THAN 6,000 LOCAL PEOPLE GET COMMONWEALTH GAMES RELATED JOBS
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‘one stop’ shop has been launched to give people the skills they need to land thousands of jobs at next summer’s Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The bespoke, on-line portal has been set up by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to offer valuable information on training courses that are matched to Birmingham 2022 jobs. The Jobs and Skills Academy portal is part of the WMCA’s commitment to train more than 6,000 local people for jobs that are available right now, as well as during and after the 11-day sporting spectacle. It will offer access to a wide range of courses in sectors which are expected to see large numbers of jobs created by the Games, with courses free to West Midlands residents who have an annual income of less than £18,135. Commonwealth Games contractors are also part of the initiative so local people can be connected directly to those companies helping to stage the Games. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “The Games and the legacy they will leave could create
up to 35,000 jobs which is why myself and other leaders were so determined to land this global event for our region. “Now, following the impact of the pandemic on local workers, the opportunities offered by the Games are more important than ever and it’s crucial local people have the skills needed to fill the jobs being created – not just during the Games themselves but also in the months leading up to them and in the years afterwards. That’s why the WMCA, working closely with our partners, is funding this comprehensive training programme ahead of next summer and I would urge people to use this ‘one stop shop’ to find out how they can get trained for an exciting new career.” The Commonwealth Jobs and Skills Academy is an umbrella brand for all employment and skills programmes linked to the Games. It also includes Birmingham City Council, Birmingham 2022, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the Department for Education, Jobcentre Plus and the Department for Work and Pensions. Other partners include local authorities across the region, Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and further education colleges.
Africa Needs $50bn A Year For Climate Change Fight
A NEW report says Africa needs to invest up to $50bn (£36bn) a year in order to cope with the growing threat of climate change. The African Union and World Meteorological Organisation warn that about a 120 million poor people face floods, drought, displacement, and extreme heat by the end of this decade if nothing is done. It also warns that all of Africa's remaining glaciers are on track to disappear by the 2040s. Africa has warmed faster than the global average but has been responsible for just 4% of the world’s greenhouse emissions.
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EVANJELIN ELCHMANAR TO REPRESENT THE UK AT 60TH MISS INTERNATIONAL
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ecent Acting and film graduate Evanjelin Elchmanar will be representing the United Kingdom at the 60th Miss International stage where she will be competing with more than 65 countries and regions in Japan in the fall of 2022. She works as a model, philanthropist and is the director of her charity organization, ‘E. Francia Community Welfare LTD’, where she has raised over £75,000 over 7 years for numerous charities that support the homeless, children and women who have suffered sexual and domestic violence. She has recently raised £15,000 to fund the build of a new home for a single mother of two in Sri Lanka. Evanjelin plans to visit Sri Lanka in March where she can help build a community centre where children have a safe space
that offers tuition, food and extracurricular activities. Through her philanthropy, she is in the process of creating a sustainable fashion line where 20% will go to charitable causes. Miss International is one of the most prestigious pageants in the world, they have established the "Miss International Fund" which donates money to underprivileged children around the world, through Unicef and other charity institutions. “Becoming Miss International UK was one of my goals ever since starting my journey in 2015.” Evanjelin entered her first pageant - Miss Teen Inspiration UK - placing top 8 at the age of 14. She then went on to compete at Miss Junior Teen Great Britain where she placed 1st runner up in 2016. At the age of 16, she won the title of Miss Teen Great Britain
2017/18. She was the youngest and the first woman of colour to win the prestigious title. "As a British Sri Lankan woman, I want to champion the voices of inclusiveness and diversity now more than ever. "Growing up I tried to hide my culture and change my appearance to fit into societies unrealistic Beauty standards. "I entered at the beginning of 2020 and I was thrilled that I got through to the finals and was given the title of Miss West Midlands International. "Balancing studies and pageantry I would volunteer my time to work with the homeless shelter in Birmingham by making and serving food every other weekend as well as attending events in person and virtually. "The pandemic was a difficult time for all of us however we were able to push through and see the light at the end of the tunnel. The 21-year-old created her campaign during lockdown called art that tells our story to celebrate accomplishments and spread awareness about different charity organizations through art. During the lockdown, Evanjelin was moved to write her song called Breathe, to shed light on the difficult times we all faced and to motivate us to continue to strive for our goals no matter what challenges come our way. She is an ambassador for Women and single mothers with children who have experienced domestic violence and has recently raised £15,000 to fund the build of a new
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home for a single mother of two in Sri Lanka. She plans to visit Sri Lanka in March where she can help build a community centre where children have a safe space that offers tuition, food and extracurricular activities. The finals of Miss International UK were held on the 23rd of July. "Building up to that day I knew that I did everything I could and wanted to enjoy every moment. "My amazing sponsors Ekaj, Yasmin Accent Dental Care, Hybrid Personal Training and LucythuyBeauty made my journey even more special by getting me ready to achieve my goal. "It was amazing to be able to see familiar faces and make new friends. "When my name was called out as the winner I couldn’t help but look out into my family and friends especially my mother Santhi Rajakaruna, "It was her birthday and I was so happy to give this present to her. She had given me and my two brothers, Walter and Jonnes everything to succeed and reach our goals. "As a titleholder I want to showcase that Pageants are not solely based on beauty, yes it Is accelerating to be on stage,dressed in beautiful gowns and hearing crowds scream and cheer. "It’s about how you use your voice and your platform to create change and inspire others to do so as well."
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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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MEET MAUREEN AND MELANIN AND MENOPAUSE MOMENTS
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aureen Anderson is a proud Brummie, born in 1966 the year that England won the world cup but more importantly and very proudly, the year her parents bought their family home in Harborne, Birmingham. They were the first black family to live in the area for several years before the Ballantine’s, Laing’s and Menns’ families moved in. Maureen smiled as she remembered their names and states that she is still in contact with the Laings and the Menns families. "We may not share blood, but we share a long history and family memories including supporting the family in 2020 when my parents passed away within one month of each other. "I left Birmingham at aged 19, had my son at 22 then left full time employment to be a student at Goldsmiths studying
Anthropology at aged 30. "I became a grandmother at 50 and missed my first period at the average age of 51, it came back periodically over three years and finally stopped on 31st December 2020 aged 54, the year I
also became an adult orphan." Also in 2020 – Melanin And Menopause Moments (MAMM) was born and is now thriving - MAMM is an inclusive and supportive space and all are welcome provided they are genuinely interested in supporting and understanding the menopausal journey from the melanin-rich woman’s perspective which in turn will assist them to understand their own journey or give support to women. The course was jointly created with Samantra Ellis, a Wellness Practitioner, who focuses on holistic health. The comments from women that have attended the courses range from ‘transformational’ and ‘I am no longer alone’, to ‘I didn’t know that black women experienced menopause’, ‘I have finally been able to talk about more than being hot’, and ‘Maureen and Samantra provide a safe space for women to be heard and supported in the sister circle’
MAMM’s mission statement is to ensure that Black and Brown women are represented in the menopause space online, in magazines and in the media. MAMM aims to represent, educate, and empower Black and Brown women as they traverse their menopause journey. MAMM run courses online (and in person subject to Covid restrictions) and support women internationally via Zoom Events and other social media platforms. It’s called MAMM Learning – First Aid for Menopause. For more information or to get in touch, Maureen welcomes your enquiries via her website: www. maureen-anderson.co.uk and looks forward to supporting you.
l Maureen Anderson
Study Aims To Help Domestic Violence And Abuse Survivors In COVID-19 THE UNIVERSITY of Birmingham is leading a new study to identify the impact COVID-19 has had on domestic violence and abuse survivors and the best support packages that can be remotely accessed by survivors or those at risk. Funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the research is being carried out in collaboration with Oxford Brookes University and two charities working to end domestic abuse - Women’s Aid and WE:ARE Women’s Empowerment And Recovery Educators. Dr Joht Singh Chandan, NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Public Health at the University of Birmingham and Co-Chief Investigator of the study, said: “Reports from international governments and charities have demonstrated lockdowns have led to increased rates of police callouts and helpline calls relating to domestic violence and abuse. Also, it appears that whilst face-to-face interactions are
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limited due to pandemic, we must consider investing in good remote interventions to support survivors or those at risk.” The researchers will carry out a systematic mapping exercise to identify and assess existing remote interventions for domestic violence and abuse in the UK, and will then compile a freely accessible online guidebook of these solutions. They will then rank them to identify the best and most cost-effective existing remote solutions. Co-Chief Investigator Caroline Bradbury-Jones, Professor of Gender Based Violence and Health at the University of Birmingham, added: “Considering the urgency of the matter as the UK navigates its way out of the pandemic, undertaking research which identifies suitable solutions, which could be implemented around the country, will provide immense benefit to survivors and ultimately save subsequential societal costs.” Sarah Davidge, Research
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l Dr Joht Singh Chandan and Evaluation Manager at Women's Aid Federation of England, said: “This research project offers a much-needed opportunity to understand how technology is used to support survivors of domestic abuse.” Jacky Mulveen, a survivor of domestic abuse, is Project Manager at WE:ARE Women’s Empowerment and Recovery Educators which supports women who have been subjected to domestic abuse by providing a pathway of traumainformed psycho-educational awareness and empowerment programmes alongside a range of workshops and creative activities. “I am incredibly proud to be playing a key role in this vital research,” she said. “We hope it will provide the information for local government and policymakers to make the most informed commissioning decisions in order to provide survivors the highest quality support possible.”
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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT
Celebrating The Historic CARICOM Africa Summit
IFAD Calls For Increased Investments Ahead Of World Conservation Congress AHEAD of his participation in the IUCN World Conservation Congress, in Marseille, the President of the IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development) said: “If we do not invest more in protecting biodiversity, development cannot be sustainable and we will not eradicate hunger or achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. “Biodiversity is a cornerstone of healthy and sustainable food systems,” said Gilbert F. Houngbo. “From protecting pollinators, to improving soil fertility and building resilience to the effects of climate change, biodiversity is fundamental to addressing global hunger. But the clock is ticking. “We need to increase our investments to protect biodiversity before it is too late. Our future depends on it.” As part of its own increase in biodiversity investments, IFAD announced a commitment to focus 30 percent of its climate finance to support nature-based solutions in rural small-scale agriculture by 2030. Nature-based solutions promote the proactive conservation, management and restoration of natural ecosystems and biodiversity to contribute to addressing the challenges of climate change, food and water security, and human health. “Rural communities and smallscale farmers have a vital role to play. They are dependent on biodiversity, but are also important custodians of it, growing a wider range of species and varieties than large-scale farms.” IFAD’s investments in naturebased solutions aim to promote a healthy biosphere, increasing productivity and improving food security, nutrition and resilience to climate change.
BID NOW FOR SECOND ROUND OF CELEBRATING COMMUNITIES FUNDING
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l Community groups and residents alike can apply for funding to help their area celebrate the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. esidents and community groups now have a second chance to bid for a slice of a £2million council fund created to help people celebrate the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The Celebrating Communities Small Grants Funding Scheme has been assembled by Birmingham City Council to maximise the benefit and legacy of being the Proud Host City for the Games. Ideas are being welcomed from all 69 of the city’s wards to ensure everyone feels involved with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games – regardless of whether they have a competition or cultural event in their neighbourhood or not. Grants will be available to run initiatives which deliver against one of three themes: ‘Get Active’, ‘Ready, Steady, Fun’ and ‘Celebrating Culture’ - which are
described as follows: Getting Active – encouraging communities to get out and get active by participating in sports and recreational activities. The overriding aim should be to encourage residents, of all abilities and ages, to engage in physical activity and improve their health and wellbeing. This could, for example be anything from running to gardening and walking – it isn’t restricted to traditional/organised sport. Ready, Steady, Fun – delivering community projects to ensure a local area is Games ready (e.g. by improving communal space, and hosting community celebrations to connect people and foster civic pride). Celebrating Culture – developing community-led cultural events and initiatives that encourage intergenerational activities. Proposed schemes
should harness the power of culture to bring people together, celebrate their identities, Birmingham’s place in the Commonwealth and the culture, heritage and stories of their communities. The scheme will allocate funding across the city’s wards using a formula that considers local deprivation data and the size of the ward. Wards with one councillor will receive between £11,100 and £17,500. Wards with two councillors will receive between £22,200 and £35,000. Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Our aim is for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games to be a Games for everyone, bringing people and communities across the city together. “Through this fund residents and community groups can play a big part in a city-wide celebration.
"We hope Celebrating Communities will help unlock some of the local excitement and help make the events of 2022 memorable for the people of Birmingham.” The deadline for Round Two applications is 30 November 2021. Ward Forums and community voting will then take place to select the successful bids between February and March of next year, with projects then commencing in April 2022. The successful Round One applicants are set to be named in the coming weeks – those who have bid in Round One are welcomed to resubmit their initial ideas, but if successful in Round One, the same scheme will not be considered again when finalising the Round Two awards. This means an organisation could be successful with two different bids in the two rounds.
HISTORY was made when the inaugural CARICOM-Africa Summit was held virtually under the theme 'Unity Across Continents and Oceans: Opportunities for Deepening Integration'. The meeting, which was delayed by a year due to the pandemic, aimed at 'Promoting closer collaboration between Africa Diaspora, People of African Descent and the Caribbean and Pacific region and institutions.' Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta led the summit with leaders of 69 countries between Africa and the Caribbean. Among matters discussed were greater economic trade and investment opportunities between Africa and the Caribbean and solidarity in addressing global challenges, including climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. "Colleagues, we have it within our power to demand change in the international system and to fight for it and to make it happen. But only if we act harmoniously," said President Kenyatta. "We are a population of approximately 1.4 billion people, with great natural and wealthcreating resources including oil, gas, agriculture, minerals, forestry, tourism, fisheries and much more." Dominica's Prime Minister, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, said urgent progress was needed on all that was discussed, and his island nation stood ready to play its part. He shared the excitement and expectations across the Caribbean and Africa for closer cooperation and contact between the continent and the region – and supported the call for an annual summit. Meanwhile, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett said the cycle of history has brought the Caribbean and Africa into a new union "that is freely entered into."
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Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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IS BACK WITH GREA
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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 31
ENTERTAINMENT
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EATEST HITS ALBUM BACK ON THE ROAD
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astille have announced the first leg of the, ‘Give Me The Future tour 2022 - a headline tour for April 2022 with a run of shows across major cities including London’s The O2, Manchester AO Arena and Birmingham O2 Academy. The shows will give fans the opportunity to hear the band’s hugely anticipated fourth album, Give Me The Future for the first time live. Dan Smith says, “We’re all massively excited to head out on tour with this new album that we love. After everything that’s happened over the last couple of years, we’re
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buzzing to play for everyone at these brilliant venues and can’t wait to have some fun back on the road again… here’s to gigging in 2022.” ‘Give Me The Future’ is set for release on February 4th 2022 and explores both the opportunities of new technology and the dark side of lives lived online, it’s as playful and fun as it is thoughtprovoking, as dystopian as it is dancefloor-friendly, and as electronic as Bastille have ever been. The album takes us into a sci-fi wonderland free from restrictions – each song a different danceable dreamscape, a place where you
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can travel back and forward in time to be anyone, do anything and embrace a new wave of technology which enables us to get lost inside our imagination The Brit winning four-piece have built their reputation as one of the world’s most captivating live bands. Over the summer the band headlined not one but two UK festivals -Latitude and Standon Calling, and played a further two sold-out shows at Hampton Court Palace Festival. With over 11 million records sold, 6 U.K. Top 40 singles, and 1.5 billion video views, Bastille continue to be one of the world’s most streamed bands.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS
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ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE: BORN FROM HERITAGE
The UK’s First Flying Taxi Hub Set To Be Built In Coventry THE WORLD’S first urban airport dedicated to electric airtaxis and drones has received funding from the UK government. Called Air-One, the transport hub is set to open - as part of Coventry’s ‘City of Culture’ celebrations - in November. Its creators, a new company called Urban Air Port, will use the event to demonstrate how an off-grid, hydrogen-powered urban airport would work. In essence, the site would provide a space for the charging and loading of drones that would ferry deliveries around the city. This could ease congestion in city places packed with delivery vans and therefore improve air quality. The project also has ambitions to host electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), which could shuttle passengers into the city centre and back. Urban Air Port aims for the Air-One to be a hub at the heart of a network of drone traffic corridors – with one of the proposed ‘highways in the sky’ being the 15km route between Coventry and Kenilworth, which is currently being mapped out.
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he desire for selfexpression is fundamental to the human condition. It is one of the principal reasons clients are drawn to Rolls-Royce, which offers matchless opportunities to push boundaries, redefine what’s possible and challenge established convention. Our Black Badge series of motor cars captures this spirit in extremis. And today, we look at how individualism, iconoclasm and even outright rebellion pervaded the marque’s history from its inception and continues to inform the unique offer Rolls‑Royce extends to its
contemporary clients. Although their backgrounds could hardly have been more different, the company’s founders both successfully challenged norms and conventions that might otherwise have bound them to unthinkable mediocrity. Henry Royce overcame poverty, deprivation and a lack of formal education to become a world-class engineer who created ‘the best cars in the world’, eventually being ennobled for his achievements. Cambridge-educated The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls was born an aristocrat: he could have chosen a life of ease, indolence and privilege, but opted instead
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for the grease, grime and frequent peril of early motorracing and aviation, becoming a leading pioneer in both fields. Today, we would call them ‘disruptors’ – outliers, visionaries and subversives who shape the world by doing things in ways no one else ever dreams – or dares – to try. No wonder then, that the marque has always proved so beguiling to others who share their rebellious nature. The Black Badge family of Rolls-Royce motor cars, launched in 2016, is the ultimate expression of this spirit of individualism, self-expression, creativity and iconoclasm.
And while clients have a virtually unlimited choice of exterior finishes, one colour above all still consistently exerts a special fascination and powerful allure when applied to our motor cars – just as it has throughout the marque’s long history. Black. The colour black has long been associated with power, strength and authority. It is intense and substantial. Black also speaks of elegance and confidence. Over the decades, there have been many notable examples of bespoke Rolls-Royce motor cars finished in black.
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Conrad Energy Signs 104MWh Battery Energy Storage Order CONRAD ENERGY, the UK’s largest flexible power producer, and GE Renewable Energy have announced the signing of a major framework agreement for the design, manufacture, and supply of GE’s battery energy storage system in the UK. This agreement reflects the commitment of Conrad Energy and GE to supporting the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy and is the next step for Conrad Energy in the build out of their growing 500MW battery pipeline “Battery storage systems are starting to play an increasingly important role in enabling the proliferation of green energy across the UK,” says Steven Hardman, Conrad Energy’s Managing Director. “Their ability to not only store energy but provides grid stability products such as frequency support, contribute to ongoing energy security as the UK creates a future fit power infrastructure.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 33
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MOTORS
150,000 Motorists Now Insured
ZEEKR 001 GOES INTO PRODUCTION
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he most anticipated electric vehicle of the year has entered into production. The first production-ready ZEEKR 001 rolled off the production line earlier today at a special ceremony in ZEEKR’s Intelligent Factory in Ningbo, China. The ZEEKR Intelligent Factory is one of the most advanced vehicle facilities created to date thanks to a 5G+ system that allows for agile and transparent production management. Areas such as the welding section are fully automated with
over 300 robots carrying out the work with limited human intervention thanks to the factory utilizing an industrial grade 5G+ intelligent internet system that allows production to be planned, tracked and checked in a fully transparent manner. In addition, the ZEEKR production process allows for continuous self-optimization, ensuring the quality of each ZEEKR product. For example; the welding production line adopts monitoring systems such as glue application visual guidance, online measurement, and ultrasonic self-inspection, and
uses intelligent self-adaptation for welding control to continually improve the welding process. The ZEEKR 001 was first unveiled in April 2021 prior to the Shanghai Auto Show. Based on Geely Holding Group’s Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA), the vehicle is able to create 400kw of power with max torque of 768 Nm through a twin motor system capable of sending the 001 from 0-100kph in just 3.8 seconds and from 100-0 kph in just 34.5 meters. The 100kWh Z-Battery is able to charge from 10% to 80% within 30 minutes.
Birmingham City Council And ESB Energy Launch New Electric Vehicle Charging Network BIRMINGHAM’S first ESB Energy multicharging hub for electric vehicle (EV) users has been officially opened at a flagship site located on Navigation Street. The hub includes four rapid (50kW) multi connector chargers and two fast chargers (22kW), allowing eight EVs to charge at any one time. Last year, Birmingham City Council announced that it had secured funding through the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to roll-out 100% renewable energy electric vehicle
charge points across the city. The site on Navigation Street is the first of 394 fast and rapid charge points that will be rolled out across the city over the next two years by EV infrastructure provider and specialists ESB Energy. The Council’s Route to Zero Action Plan, published last year, identified electric vehicle charging as a key priority action, with an ambition to have more than 9,000 charge points installed in Birmingham by 2030.
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OP TUTELAGE – a national policing initiative where police forces issue advisory letters to drivers that appear to have no motor insurance - has encouraged over 150,000 motorists to drive insured. The initiative, led by the NPCC’s National Roads Policing Operations, Intelligence and Investigation (NRPOII) and supported by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), was introduced in January 2020 to help reduce uninsured driving levels across the UK. By using MIB’s Motor Insurance Database (MID) – a central record of all active motor insurance policies in the UK - police forces can quickly identify any vehicle that appears not to have insurance and send the registered keeper an advisory letter. Results have been highly successful with 151,464 drivers correcting their insurance status to date following over 215,000 advisory letters issued thus far, which equates to around 3 in 4 people.
BEAULIEU UNVEILS NEW BOND EXHIBITION FOR NO TIME TO DIE
NO TIME TO DIE filmmakers gathered at Beaulieu as Lord Montagu made a Bond-style entrance by driving into the National Motor Museum in an Aston Martin DB5 to launch the new Bond in Motion – No Time To Die exhibition. Dressed in a black tie and dinner suit, Lord Montagu unveiled the display of the iconic cars, gadgets and costumes from No Time To Die with the film’s Special Effects Supervisor, Oscar-winning Chris Corbould. Guests and Beaulieu visitors saw the first glimpse of Bond’s iconic silver birch Aston Martin DB5, as Lord Montagu pulled back its cover to reveal the stunt
car’s sensor-activated machine guns and rolling LED number plate. Tim Browning also stood with fellow guests beneath the submersible glider he designed for the movie. The glider, named ‘Stealthy Bird’ by Q, now perches in its new home overlooking the exhibition. Lord Montagu said: “Exhibiting Bond cars in the National Motor Museum is a great way of combining our subject – the history of motoring right up to the present day – with one of the best known themes from the world of entertainment. "I am delighted that Eon have given us the opportunity to stage
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this exhibition as I feel sure it will be very popular with our visitors.” Chris Corbould said: “The Bond in Motion – No Time To Die exhibition sums up everything we did in the film. "The original vehicles are all there in one place to see – from the classics to up-to-date and even state-of-the-art cars. It’s a wonderful collection.’’ Bond in Motion – No Time To Die follows in the footsteps of Beaulieu’s popular Bond In Motion exhibition, which opened ten years ago showing 50 original vehicles from 50 years of Bond.
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ENTERTAINMENT
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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THE SOUND SYSTEM CULTURE LIVES ON Y ou do not realize the importance of sound system culture, the true importance of it and how it has been a platform for many stars of today. Joining us on our podcast is the internationally successful and Birmingham’s very own Winston Mexican, founder of Luv Injection Sound and comedian John Simmit who celebrates 29 years of putting bums on theatre seats. You will hear in the interviews the relevance of sound system and how for many it was their social media and only way to be heard. Log onto the Street Cred Magazine podcast and get a true insight into the world of old skool before the YouTubes, the facebooks, the MTVs. How to be heard and seen was on the streets! Music truly is power
and we are honoured to have these legends of Birmingham share their stories about the culture and how relevant sound systems were to their lives. Nothing beats the real old skool, it’s a true feeling and so good to know that there are still people highly successful doing things the old fashioned way. Speaking of old fashioned, even down to the CD’s nothing beats when you buy an album, take the music and place into the player and let it roll. Pr reading the lyrics on a vinyl. Seems its all still here and even stars like Craig David, Elton John and Sting are realizing that this is missed by many to have a CD for your memories and collectors item. Hardcore promo by celebrities are pushing to get music lovers to have physical copies of music. The old skool lives.
l PMark Dwayne with the founder of Luv Injection Sound, Winston Mexican, and right, legendary comedian John Simmit
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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 35
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ENTERTAINMENT Aakash Odedra Company’s Virtuoso Solo Show Returns
RISING is the solo show that launched the extraordinary performer and choreographer Aakash Odedra onto the dance scene. On November 17, it will return to Birmingham Hippodrome where Odedra is also an Associate Artist. First performed in 2011 at Birmingham Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio, Rising notably featured solo works by three of contemporary dance’s biggest stars; Akram Khan, Russell Maliphant and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui – alongside work by Odedra himself. As critic Judith Mackrell said at the time, it was: “the dance equivalent of a redcarpet event”. Each of the choreographers used Odedra’s background in the classical techniques of Kathak and Bharatanatyam to explore process, aesthetics and a new way of looking at the solo dancer. The result was an exceptional contemporary programme which won Odedra his second Bessie nomination for Outstanding Performer and a Dora Award (Canada) for Best Male Performance.
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Coventry University host Korea Day Festival
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oventry University and the Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) staged an exciting programme of fashion, dance and music to celebrate Korea Day last month at the university’s Coventry city centre campus. The Korea Day Festival, which celebrates the friendship and understanding between Korea and the UK, was hosted by Coventry University’s Korea Centre kicking off at Square One inside The Hub building. The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, His Excellency Gunn Kim, opened the event alongside Ian Dunn, Coventry University’s Provost. Hosted in collaboration with Korean societies in the UK, the day-long celebration of Korean culture, from the traditional to the contemporary, comprised live performances, great food and Korean cultural experiences, with attendees being treated to a Hanji Hanbok Fashion Show (traditional Korean paper costumes) supported by the Jeonju Fashion Association and performances by Y Dance Project, KDSCU (K-Pop Dance Society Coventry University) and Korean Senior Citizens UK, before renowned Royal Opera House stars Haegee Lee and David Junghoon Kim take to the stage. A Korean Day Festival Art Exhibition was launched, with
The Name's Bond... Beva Bond - 0007
Birminghams Top Secret Super Agent!
works from artists including; Young Sook Park, Chan Hyo Bae, Mee Kyoung Shin, Dong Won Lee, Kum Young Kown, Byung Chan Kim, Hyun Jung Koh and Young Hun Ham. The exhibition will be on display until October 30 at CU Coventry. Ian Dunn, Provost, Coventry University, said: “We were delighted to host the Korea Day
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Festival together with the Korean Cultural Centre to celebrate Korean culture in Coventry at a time that we are also celebrating being the UK’s City of Culture for 2021. The event was open to all and we looked forward to welcoming everyone who attended.” His Excellency Gunn Kim, Ambassador of the Republic of
Korea to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, said: "I was delighted to be invited to the Korea Day Festival. “The event gave everyone a chance to learn about Korean culture through various performances. I hope everyone who attended the festival fully experienced the charm of Korea."
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He may have a soft side though...
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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Michael Willis
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double-lung transplant recipient, after being diagnosed with sarcoidosis - a rare lung condition - in 2016, following his transplant he raised nearly £12,000 for the NHS. Since then, he and his wife Patricia founded The Michael Willis Foundation to raise awareness about organ donation. A successful jewellery maker, every year, to mark his transplant anniversary, the couple organised
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a black-tie event to raise funds for the NHS and promote organ donation - previously having Royal Papworth staff in attendance. A multi award winner for championing the awareness of organ donation, continuing to raise funds for the Royal Papworth Hospital and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital to the bitter end, the husband, father and grandfather died, age 64.
James Michael Tyler
tarring as Gunther in the sitcom, Friends, he remained a hugely popular character among fans having appeared in almost 150 episodes of the comedy show. Born in Greenwood, in Mississippi, USA, he graduated from Anderson College (now Anderson University) with a twoyear degree in 1982 and Clemson University with a degree in geology in 1984 - during which, he was a member of the Clemson Players theatre group. He received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Georgia in 1987. After moving to Los Angeles, in 1988, he became an assistant film editor and production assistant before getting the part of Gunther, the coffee shop worker at Central Perk. During when, he supported many charities, including; the Lili Claire Foundation and AIDS Project Los Angeles.
He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018, but did not publicly disclose his illness until June this year. Survived by his wife Carno, he died at his home, aged 59.
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he former football manager was best known for his two spells leading Glasgow Rangers, where he won 13 major trophies in seven years, including seven league titles in succession, after serving the club as assistant manager to equally-successful Graeme Souness. He was also assisted over a long spell at Dundee United, after a playing career there. He achieved legendary status at Ibrox, with 21 trophies in two spells making him the second most successful Rangers boss ever behind Bill Struth. He also managed the Scotland national team and Everton in England. He also had a short spell as Assistant Manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. Born in Lanark, he was married, to Ethel, with two sons, Neil and Steven and underwent an
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unspecified medical operation that required him to stay in hospital. He died, age 73.
Corporal Billy
hey turned out in their numbers to pay homage to the legend that is Corporal Billy - a musicians, producers, radio presenters, artist manager, sound system DJ and family man - as friends, colleagues and the family paid their respects to a legend! At his ‘Nine-Nights’ - a tradition practiced, ostensive, in the Caribbean – they came to say: “R.I.P. Corporal Billy” as one of the leading figures of the multi-award winning and internationally respected Luv Injection sound system – which included Winston Mexican, King Zukie, Tin Tin, DJ Mexy, CoCo, Remy T, Vybrant Yute, Daddy King, Colin Little and Fry – he stood tall in the reggae music scene, in general. Highly respected by his peers; including fellow legends like sound system “Don” David
Rodigan, fellow NewStyle Radio 98.7 presenters, led by Wayne Ire, plus many more – in and out of the music industry. As his family’s wishes for privacy and space, as they grieved, Corporal Billy will be remembered, by one-and-all, for years to come.
Agnes Jebet Tirop
Avi Barot
orn in Ahmedabad, in Gujarat, he was an Indian cricketer who played for Saurashtra, he played 38 first-class matches, 38 List-A matches, and 20 Twenty20 matches during his career, including 21 matches in the Ranji Trophy, 17 List A and
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11 domestic T20 matches for Saurashtra. He played as a right-handed wicket-keeper-batsman and scored 1,547 runs, 1,030 runs and 717 runs in first-class, List-A and T20 respectively. He died in Ahmedabad, from a cardiac arrest. He was 29.
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orn in Uasin Gishu County, in Kenya, she was a professional long-distance runner who mainly competed in the 5000 metres and cross country running. At the 2015 IAAF World Cross Country Championships she became the second-youngest ever gold medallist in the women's race after Zola Budd. She was also a medallist at junior level at the World Cross Country and World Junior Championships in Athletics. She was the junior champion at the African Cross Country Championships in 2014. She held a 5000 m best of 14:50.36 minutes and won the bronze medal in the 10,000 metres events at the 2017 and 2019 World Athletics Championships and, at the time of her death in 2021, was the world-record holder in the 10 kilometres women's only event. A 5000m finalist at the Toyko Olympics, she finished in 4th place. She was stabbed to death in Iten, age 25.
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OBITUARIES
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Colin Powell
he former US Secretary of State was a highly decorated army officer who saw service in Vietnam, becoming a trusted military adviser to a number of leading US politicians. The son of Jamaican immigrants and born in New York, he was a brigadier-general commanding the 101st Airborne Division before taking up an advisory role in government. He worked for a time in the Carter administration and then became senior military aide to Caspar Weinberger, the Secretary of State for Defence appointed by the incoming president, Ronald Reagan. In 1989, he was appointed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest military position in the US Department of Defence, at 52, and the first African-American. In another
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“first”, in 2000, he was appointed as Secretary of State by George W Bush. He left the army in 1993 and devoted time to writing his autobiography and in 2008 endorsed Barack Obama for the US presidency. He died, age 84.
Sir David Amess
orn and raised in Essex, he studied economics and government at Bournemouth University before a short careers as a primary school teacher. He was also an underwriter and recruitment consultant. He was elected as a Conservative councillor for Redbridge in 1982 and MP for Basildon in 1983 before being the MP for Southend West from 1997. He previously served as MP for Basildon from June 1983 to April 1997. A socially-conservative Roman Catholic who opposed abortion and same-sex marriage, he supported the reintroduction of capital punishment and Brexit. Away from the world of politics, as an animal-lover, his family had several pets. In 2016, these included a rescue dog Married to Julia Arnold, he had five children, including actress
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Katie Amess, he was stabbed multiple times at his constituency surgery. He was 69.
Rick Jones
orn in London, Ontario, in Canada, he began his television career as one of the original co-presenters of Play School, in which he played guitar and sang. While appearing in Spoon River at the Royal Court Theatre in 1964, and then, in 1972, became the host of Fingerbobs, a show for younger children, in which he created characters from finger puppets made of paper. He also wrote and performed the English theme for the French TV series The Aeronauts. He was one of several entertainers who took turns to present We Want To Sing, a musical variety series made by BBC Manchester, in which a young live audience was invited to sing along with songs performed by the host and various guests. Other BBC TV programmes in which he appeared included Watch and Play Away.
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Moving to the United States, with his wife, Valerie, and daughter he wrote stage musicals, before dying from oesophageal cancer. He was 84.
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THE FUNERAL OF MOMMA JEN
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TEARS AND JOY FLO
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ears and joy intertwined as family and friends gathered to mourn the passing – and celebrate the life – of Momma Jen. A woman who gave her all to help those around her, her death caused huge ructions as, as a woman with what people said was the “biggest heart”, was remembered for the life she lived, and the impact she made on those around her. Born Jeneta Adina Benjamin in Kingston, Jamaica, she was a woman of strong values, morals and principles, who didn’t stand for any injustice. She was always fighting to defend these principles, and at her funeral service, at the St. Mary & St. Ambrose Church in Birmingham, people were packed – both inside and out – looking for their opportunity to tell of the relevance she had in each and every one of their lives. Wherever she went, Momma Jen was always the life and soul of the party. More so, the party wouldn’t start until she walked in - and it didn’t end until she left. A woman with a unique style of dressing, her elegantly tall posture and small physique always guaranteed that she looked spectacular – so much so as she highlighted this as she would also be seen with her own fancy hair styles, ‘boasy’ nail designs, with lots of jewellery – she was often referred to as ‘Mrs T’, in reference to the Mr T character from the A Team who was noted for all the jewellery he wore. Also known as The Queen of Balsall Heath, Sister Jen, Auntie Jen,
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Mommy Fruits, Nanny Bengie and The Great One, the line was long as people took this sombre occasion to tell of her importance to their lives. As her cousin, Marcia, read a touching heart-felt poem written by Mamma’s carer Vicky, it was the prelude to everyone beginning to learn of just how ‘great’ a woman she really was.
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“When I pass, I want people to celebrate,” she was quoted as once saying. The life and soul of every party, this service in her name proved more a celebration, and not a mourning, of a life that was so rich in character and substance. “Tek it easy…Do,” Reverend Dr Carver – who was the Overseer for the service - reminded everyone of
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OW FOR MOMMA JEN
what she was always known to say. Taking it easy, she always did. “In my eyes, she was always a woman of laughs,” said NewStyle Radio presenter Wayne Irie. “Growing up, as I did, around her area in Balsall Heath, she was always like a second mother to me. "If I was ever in a bind – of any sort – and my mother wasn’t there,
she would always step up and made sure that my mom would never have anything to worry about. “And it wasn’t just me…she acted like a mother to everyone she met – no matter of their age, cultural differences – man, women, and/ or children. She was ‘mommy' to everyone, not just her own. “She was all of our African-
The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 39
THE FUNERAL OF MOMMA JEN
Caribbean Queen”. Providing a wide range of services over many decades, which led to her being regarded as one of the most prominent women in Balsall Heath, Momma Jen set up her own childminding service, which catered for all members of her community from all different cultures, which ran for more than 10 years. It was one of the first registered childminding services in the area, which had over 350 children who passed through her care. It was during this role that she acquired her many pseudonyms. “Her love was iconic,” said another of her ‘children’ and godson, Clint Dunkley, who is the well-renowned owner of More Secure Ltd - one of the UK’s leading security firms. “Goodness and mercy will always follow Momma Jen,” Rev. Dr Carver said, as many will testify that she will always continue to inspire others in their hearts - with her unique style and fashion. And, as people shared their tears and joys of one of THE icons of any community, those of Balsall Heath and surrounding areas will remain united in the knowledge that Jeneta Adina Benjamin will always be their ‘Momma Jen’. The Phoenix Newspaper is a publication that connects with the community. We were honoured to support the family at such a difficult time, and we wish them all every comfort that the creator can offer at a time such as this. Love and light always from the hearts of everyone at Team Phoenix.
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Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
HEALTH AND WELLBEING NHS Announce New Treatment For Sickle Cell THE FIRST new sickle-cell treatment in 20 years will help keep thousands of people out of hospital over the next three years, NHS England has said. Sickle-cell disease is incurable and affects 15,000 people in the UK. And the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence said the hope of reducing health inequalities for Black people, who are predominantly affected and often have poorer health to start with, made the drug worth recommending. The drug, crizanlizumab, made by Novartis, is injected into a vein and can be taken on its own or alongside standard treatment and regular blood transfusions. And in a trial, patients taking the crizanlizumab had a sicklecell crisis 1.6 times a year on average, compared with nearly three times a year normally. The painful episodes, which can require hospital treatment leading to other health issues, are caused by sickle-shaped red blood cells blocking the small blood vessels. The charity Sickle Cell Society said the new treatment brought "new hope" for people living with the world's most common genetic blood condition.
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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY S PROVIDERS ASKED TO COMPLETE ‘HEALTH CHECK’
port and physical activity providers are being invited to complete a short 'health check' survey to show what impact, if any, Covid-19 has had on them. As part of its ongoing work to support the local sport and physical activity sector, the City of Wolverhampton Council wants to take stock of where local providers are as a consequence of the pandemic. By completing the short survey (at: https://bit.ly/3iHzWci), providers will be able to give the council insight into which areas of the sector may need further support and how the council can enable this to happen. Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "The Covid-19 pandemic has affected organisations in different ways, and we are keen to understand the impact it has had on our city's sport and physical activity providers so that we might better help them in their recovery. "I would encourage all providers to complete this short survey and share with us any issues they are facing at this time." After completing the survey, sport and physical activity providers will also be able to sign up to an e-bulletin to keep the sector up to date with training courses, funding opportunities, local campaigns and community engagement opportunities as well as consultations and surveys relevant to sport and physical activity.
Maternity Service Open Day Kicked Off At Villa Park
OPPORTUNITY awaited midwives at a West Midlands Healthcare Trust which held a recruitment event at the Aston Villa ground. The jobs fair at Villa Park showcased roles across the maternity department at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust. Interviews took place on the day and candidates who were successful were given an on-thespot conditional job offer. The organisation is currently building the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital – a multi-million-pound healthcare facility in Smethwick, where the maternity department will be based. The Trust is also focused on developing staff by offering a range of training courses. Villa Park was picked as the venue for the event as some maternity clinics have been operating out of the ground since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
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T l Sherril Donaldson – NU:GEN CARE CIC
Voice For Our Black Elders
The Trauma of Black History Month
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ctober is hailed as a month to think about Black History and it’s also a month where Lupus and Menopause is brought into focus via social media, campaigning organisations and other marketing or educational outlets. This year, in particular, I have been very conscious of the call for our elders to relive their experiences of coming to Britain in the name of ‘Windrush’. I suppose its no surprise as there has been a focus on the immigration of that time and the legitimacy of their status in recent years. I have been astonished as I have inundated by various organisations and individuals wanting the ‘contact details’ of elders so they could record their stories. It seemed there was an insatiable appetite for ‘Windrush’ tales from academics, community projects, schools and ‘old Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. Now, for a number of many years it has become increasingly apparent that the Black Community, especially our elders, has been asked to relive some dreadful experiences and be happy to do so. I have, on many occasions, educated those asking for ‘contact details’ that I was not prepared to encourage the habit of expecting us to take part in research projects that offered no financial or community benefits to those taking part. This time I have been far more vociferous in my negative responses. Why more so now? Well, a couple of months ago I had a conversation with an elder about her early years in the country. She spoke of the pain of raw racism, the pain of the cold weather and attitudes of the people she worked with at a hospital and the agony of wanting to return to her home in the Caribbean and feeling trapped. She had endured and internalised all the pain and anguish and felt traumatised
every time she reflected on that period in her life. The trauma she, and many others of our elders, especially the women, appears to never be acknowledged or spoken of, yet, for many it remains close to the surface of their emotions as they reflect on the years they have spent in the country that promised so much and delivered so little. At this time when mental health is at the forefront of many initiatives it appears those women, and their children, will again be invisible to those proposing services for the community. The question of the trauma faced by those women should be written in huge letters as those same women have to deal with so many other traumatic health issues that have been raised recently, namely, child birth, menopause, pain threshold being higher than their white peers, sickle cell anaemia and more. So, as a community do we protect our elders from the ‘pimps’ who would happily take part in research and projects with no thought of who benefits from them reliving their pain or do we continue to freely give others our stories without any regard or respect for their trauma? How do we make sure our needs form a part of the health agenda for future services? I believe we need to take a very close look at how we and others treat our elders when it comes to looking back to their early years in this country and make sure we are not adding to their trauma. WE need to work together to identify our pressure points and the existing organisations in a position to lead a movement to alleviate those challenges. So, I ask you to contact me with your thoughts on the way forward and topics for discussion in this column to ensure we change the landscape of care for our elders.
he British Society for Surgery of the Hand is excited to launch the crowd funder for its first ever book, Hands Re:Worked - a stunning montage of photographs celebrating hand patients, their inspiring stories and their hands, reclaimed with the help of surgery. Hands Re:Worked showcases a wide variety of inspiring patients' stories, from para-triathletes to stonemasons, Archbishops to survivors of terrorist attacks. The project will be financed by crowd funding, and any additional money raised will be used to support the charitable work of the BSSH. BSSH Hand Surgeon Ryan Trickett said on the launch: "We could not be more proud to acknowledge the amazing work of our surgeons in this book and we are so grateful to the patients who let us feature their stories. Hands Re:Worked aims to raise awareness of common hand problems and injury, as well as the countless operations
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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 41
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
INSPIRATIONAL PATIENTS' STORIES CELEBRATED that are performed every year by skilled hand surgeons, to restore comfort and function to this most important of human tools. “We use our hands to feed and dress ourselves, to express our feelings and communicate, to touch and care, to scribe, to play, to work. "Loss of hand function threatens our independence, our well-being and our livelihoods; hand surgeons
are dedicated to restoring these after what are often life-changing injuries or diseases." The British Society for Surgery of the Hand is a medical charity, supporting education, training and research in hand surgery, to improve treatment of patients, both in the UK and globally. The official launch of the crowd funder for Hands Re:Worked took place at The Royal College
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of Surgeons where copies of the book were originally available to purchase via https://crowdfunder. co.uk/handsreworked. Individuals or companies were invited to donate to the project, or purchase rewards ranging from copies of the book itself, to bespoke artwork by a hand surgeon, or a professional print of one of the images from the book.
Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
AZUZA STREET
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new Hindu temple has opened in Birmingham to serve as a place of worship, as well as working as an advisory for youth, educational and healthcare activities in the wider West Midlands area. With an increasing congregation over the years, the need for a purpose-built temple became more apparent. Previously, celebrations were held over the weekend before a senior Hindu priest from India presided, with other swamis Hindu monks - from London. Vasantlal Parikh, lead volunteer at the temple, said: “This is a momentous occasion for us." Before moving to the new home in Hall Green in 2002, worshippers used houses, as well as hiring halls throughout the city. "This is a momentous occasion for the entire community of Birmingham,” Vasantlal continued. "Following the difficult 18 months we have all experienced, this has arrived at the most opportune moment. “We look forward to welcoming everyone of all ages, faiths and background when we fully open to the public early next year." An inauguration ceremony for BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Hall Green was held earlier ahead of it formally opening to the congregation in 2022.
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NEW HINDU TEMPLE OPENS IN SECOND CITY l BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Hall Green
Trainee Vicar With Rare Muscle-Wasting Condition To Skydive
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woman who can no longer run or walk long distances signed up for a skydive from an airplane at the Whitchurch Parachute Centre, in Shropshire. Lisa Mitchell, 50, said: “There is a family history of FSHD (Facioscapuloperoneal muscular dystrophy) the signs were there from probably my early teens, with fatigue and weakness, hidden through humour. “At that time, I was told I would be in a wheelchair by the age of 50. I had two young sons, was totally exhausted and had physically given up.” Following the diagnosis, she started working for her local church as an administrator. Eleven years later she found herself exploring ‘ministry’ and finally in 2019, she was ordained in Lichfield Cathedral and is currently a curate in a ’training parish’ and will hopefully have her own church next year. She said: “I was a bit late to the party but I got there eventually. Thanks be to God that I am not in a wheelchair. To be honest I feel the best I ever have, both physically and mentally.” The West Bromwich vicar said
l Lisa Mitchell
it was finding faith which helped her to turn a corner. There is no cure for FSHD, but research has come a long way. Scientists have now found a possible treatment to slow down the progressiveness of the disease. “While I cannot physically run or walk a long distance to raise money,” she says, “I always felt that I could jump out of an airplane.” It is a first-ever fundraising event for Lisa but her parishioners absolutely love having a skydiving vicar.
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Survey finds young more likely to pray than over-55s YOUNG PEOPLE in the UK are twice as likely as older people to pray regularly, a new survey has found. Some 51% of 18 to 34-yearolds polled by Savanta ComRes said they pray at least once a month, compared with 24% of those aged 55 and over. It also found 49% of the younger age group attend a place of worship every month, compared with 16% of over55s. Associate Director of Savanta, Chris Hopkins, said the numbers could reflect the move to online worship during the pandemic. He added that there were a few theories as to why young people made up such a large proportion of the religious landscape. He said: "As the demography of the UK changes, minority faiths do tend to have a larger proportion of practising young people, and therefore as the population of these groups increases within the UK, so will the prayer habits of the population at large. "It is possible,” he added: “that the pandemic opened up more avenues to prayer to young people, and this is reflected in the findings."
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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 43
OVERSEAS NEWS
COSTA RICA AMONGST FIRST EVER ENVIRONMENTAL ‘EARTHSHOT PRIZE’ AWARD WINNERS
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osta Rica was awarded the first ever Earthshot Prize award, granted by The Royal Foundation to encourage change and help protect the planet. The country won the highest prize for the ‘Protect and Restore Nature’ category. Costa Rica was amongst 15 other countries selected as finalists, three for each of the five categories announced by Prince William and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. After two years of work, the project launched with an aim to find proven solutions for climate change and other environmental challenges as the next ten years is a critical decade for change. The organisation explained that Costa Rica won the distinction - which entitles it to receive £1million - for its Environmental Services Payments (PES) initiative for communities and farm owners that began in 1997, led by the National Forestry Financing Fund of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE); and for its successful
conservation model, which has allowed a high percentage of biodiversity to be safeguarded today in the Wildlife Protected Areas (ASP). Carlos Alvarado, President of the Republic of Costa Rica, said: “The country demonstrates, once again, that we are pioneers in developing successful conservation models on land; and thanks to this we are winners of the Earthshot Prize award. 92% of Costa Rica’s territory is marine, but only 2.7% is under marine protected area schemes, so we will invest these resources in replicating and strengthening this model in marine conservation. We know that we must be diligent and act now to counteract the impacts of climate change.” Minister of Environment and Energy, Andrea Meza Murillo, commented: “Wildlife Protected Areas have become an engine of economic development in the territories and one of the main tourist attractions of our country, so we must make greater efforts to achieve the financial sustainability of those, both on land and at sea."
GXO LOGISTICS, Inc. the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, have announced plans to hire more than 9,000 logistics employees across the U.S. and Canada ahead of the peak holiday season. Globally, GXO is recruiting more than 20,000 employees and will continue to expand its use of advanced automation to boost productivity, enhance safety and improve the employee experience. “We’re proud to offer opportunities to thousands of people across the U.S. and Canada ahead of the busy holiday shopping season,” said GXO’s Chief Human Resources Officer Maryclaire Hammond. “When you come to GXO, you can expect to work with terrific colleagues and use our industryleading technology in an inclusive environment where we invest in your success." The open positions include salaried, hourly, and contractor roles with flexible shift options and full- and part-time employment opportunities.
Because family matters Specialist legal advice and support for individuals and businesses
A Message Of Peace Delivered To Ethiopia By Fellow African Leaders AFRICAN LEADERS speaking at the inauguration celebration for Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for “peace” following his election victory. They also spoke about bringing the nation together at the public ceremony in the capital, Addis Ababa. The civil war in the north of the country, now about to enter its 12th month, has killed thousands and led to a humanitarian crisis. Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said that the prime minister had been given a mandate to bring peace, a mandate to build stability and to bring all the people of the country together. He said: "For all of us on the African continent, Ethiopia is our mother. As we all know, if the mother is not at peace, neither, too, can the family be at peace." Speaking to the crowds in the city's main square, the President of Djibouti, Ismail Omar
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l Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Guelleh, added that he hoped that he would see Ethiopia at peace with itself. In his speech at the ceremony, Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari said that he was aware of the many challenges facing Ethiopia and encouraged all parties to come
together in the interest of the unity, progress, and wellbeing of Ethiopia. In his address, Mr Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, said: “My administration will work towards an inclusive and participatory political landscape”.
For further information, please contact Chris Longbottom on 0345 209 1775 or chris.longbottom@clarkewillmott.com or Rayner Grice on 0345 209 1382 or rayner.grice@clarkewillmott.com
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Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
Holiday and
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Travel
CARIBBEAN TOURISM FARING BETTER THAN THE REST OF THE WORLD
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s Caribbean tourism destinations continue their journey towards some semblance of normality, preliminary data from member countries of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) reveal that the region outperformed the rest of the world in the first half of 2021. During this period, international tourist arrivals to the Caribbean reached 6.6 million, representing a 12.0 per cent decline when compared to the same period last year. By the end of May arrivals were
at 5.2 million, down 30.8 percent for the corresponding period in 2020, considerably better than the global average of a 65.1 percent decline. Of the main regions analysed, The Americas, which included the Caribbean, registered a 46.9 percent drop, otherwise, no other region performed better than a 63 percent fall in arrivals. While the tourist arrivals continued to lag pre-pandemic numbers, the first half year performance was boosted by a second quarter spurt when overnight tourist visits to the Caribbean jumped between ten and 37 times greater than those
in the corresponding months in 2020. In absolute terms, there was a steady improvement, as arrival numbers increased from one million in April to 1.2 million in May to 1.5 million in June, according to data compiled by the CTO's research department. Among the reasons for the strong second quarter was a rise in outbound travel from the region's primary market, the United States, from which tourist visits reached 4.3 million in the first half of the year, a 21.7 percent increase. Other contributing factors included the easing of some travel restrictions and an increase in airlift.
U.S. To Accept Travellers With WHO-Approved Jabs
THE U.S. CENTRES for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday travellers will be able to fly to the States if they’ve received
shots of vaccines approved or recognized for emergency use by the World Health Organization or the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration. It did not say whether that included people who had received a mixed-dose regimen of approved
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U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Commissioner Calls for Caribbean Cruise Collaboration
"These are encouraging signs that the hard work our member countries have put into adapting to the changing environment of the pandemic is beginning to pay dividends," said Neil Walters, the CTO's acting secretary general. "Even as we embrace a recovery mindset and the opportunities the pandemic has given us, we must continue to be mindful of the challenges we currently face and the potential challenges a dynamic situation like the pandemic can present. The Caribbean tourism sector is known to be one of the most resilient in the world." vaccines. “CDC will release additional guidance and information as the travel requirements are finalized,” said a statement from spokeswoman Jasmine Reed. The agency began informing airlines of its decision last week, she added. Last month, White House officials said international travellers would be allowed to visit beginning in November as long as they were fully vaccinated. They did not say which vaccines would meet that criteria. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved three COVID-19 vaccines, and AstraZeneca was not among them. It is, however, approved by the WHO. It also does not allow for mixing doses of Pfizer and Moderna. The COVID-19 vaccines approved under the WHO’s emergency use listing have only been assessed as single product regimens, meaning people receive the same vaccine for both shots.
l U.S.Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte (right) with Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation, and Michele Paige, President of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, at Seatrade Cruise Global “ONE DESTINATION does not make an itinerary,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte as he highlighted the importance of greater collaboration among Caribbean destinations and cruise line partners to ensure the safe and successful return of cruises to the region. Speaking at the 35th edition of Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami last week, Commissioner Boschulte said it is important for travelers to feel safe at every destination they visit, and working with other destinations is essential to ensure that happens. “There has to be a collaborative effort amongst us in the Caribbean on health protocols because if
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a destination does not have effective protocols in place, that impacts not only the ship but also the next destination as well,” he commented. Commissioner Boschulte reflected that while the stayover sector performed well for the U.S. Virgin Islands throughout most of the pandemic, the destination and the region suffered a setback in the cruise sector. “We didn't have ships arriving for about 15 months before welcoming Celebrity Edge to St. Thomas in July,” he recalled. "What we have on the books for this year is obviously better than when we were at zero, but next year we expect to have significantly more calls,” an optimistic Commissioner Boschulte noted.
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HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL
NO TOURISTS ALLOWED IN AUSTRALIA UNTIL AT LEAST 2022
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oreign tourists won’t be welcomed back to Australia until at least next year, the prime minister said as he outlined plans for lifting some of the toughest and longest COVID-19 travel restrictions imposed by any democracy. The country will instead prioritize the return of skilled migrants and students after it hits Prime Minister Scott Morrison's benchmark for reopening its external borders: the full vaccination of 80% of the population aged 16 and older. The news comes just days after Morrison announced plans to allow vaccinated citizens and permanent residents to fly overseas from November for the first time since March 2020. The severe travel restrictions, which have trapped most Australians at home and kept
most foreigners out, have led to the lowest level of immigration since World War II. Australian universities, which rely heavily on fees paid by international students, have been particularly hard hit, and many fear students will go elsewhere if they are not allowed in soon. While many countries imposed strict lockdowns that shut down large portions of the economies, Australia's travel restrictions have kept life fairly normal for much of the pandemic — though it is now experiencing shutdowns in the biggest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, as well as the capital Canberra. The rules imposed a high emotional burden in a country where half the population was born overseas or has at least one immigrant parent. Families were separated, and some grandparents have been barred from meeting
grandchildren in Australia who are now approaching 2 years old. After lifting restrictions on Australians, Morrison said the next priority would be skilled migrants and international students — before tourists. He did not specify when those groups would be allowed in. The Australian Tourism Export Council, which represents a sector that made 45 billion Australian dollars ($33 billion) a year from international tourists before the pandemic, wants international visitors to return by March. Australian tourism operators — which have suffered not only from the ban on international tourism but also frequent internal pandemic border restrictions — are frustrated that there aren't more details of how leisure travel will resume.
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Page 46 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021
PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE
Council Supporting Tenants With Money Worries Caused By The Pandemic A REPORT APPROVED by City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet shows how the Council is continuing to support its tenants in rent arrears or with money worries caused by the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. There are currently almost 22,000 Council homes in the city, with 91 per cent managed by the Council’s arms-length management organisation, Wolverhampton Homes. The remainder are overseen by Tenant Management Organisations – Bushbury Hill Estate Management Board, Dovecotes Tenancy Management Organisation, and New Park Village Tenancy Management Cooperative. Support services have been ramped up to ensure tenants hit hard by the pandemic and struggling to pay rent have been given help and guidance to keep them in their homes. Wolverhampton Homes has also managed to reduce the overall amount of tenant arrears during the first quarter of the financial year thanks to the efforts of its Money Smart team. Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, Cabinet Member for City Assets and Housing, said: “The pandemic has brought untold pressures on people. “Through the excellent work of Wolverhampton Homes and our tenant management organisations we have been able to help people who are facing rent arrears or money worries."
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INVESTMENT AND JOBS BOOST FOR BLACK COUNTRY URBAN VILLAGE EMPLOYMENT SITE
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l Computer generated image showing aerial view of the industrial/commercial units at Bilston Urban Village ity of Wo l v e r h a m p t o n Council have announced its preferred developer for its Bilston Urban Village employment site. It has selected commercial property company Goold Estates to develop top-grade units ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 sq ft on almost 15 acres of vacant brownfield land. The £17.6 million construction of the new industrial and commercial units in Bilston could deliver up to 400 jobs and support demand for a range of commercial units from new and existing businesses. The site is situated to the rear
of Morrisons supermarket and borders the Midland Metro to the east and Bankfield Road to the west – with quick connections to Junction 10 of the M6 via The Black Country Route. Goold Estates already has experience of working in the city after constructing six industrial and warehouse units at Steelpark Trading Estate in Wednesfield, generating more than 150 jobs. The news comes during Wolverhampton’s annual Business Week and is another significant boost for Bilston Urban Village. Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Economy, Councillor Stephen Simkins, said: “The disposal of this land
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for employment use is another critical piece of the Bilston Urban Village jigsaw. “The urban village offers extensive areas of open space to enjoy on the doorstep, new schools for kids to learn in, a top-class leisure centre nearby, a new family pub/restaurant on tap and further investment planned for the town centre. “It also shows why our work towards establishing a National Brownfield Institute at the University of Wolverhampton’s £120million Springfield Campus is so critical. "This will help get more former industrial land ready for development, creating future employment sites and homes.”
Dominic Goold, Managing Director of Goold Estates, added: “We’re excited to get started on our proposals for an industrial multi-let estate and look forward to working with the Council on its delivery.” The land has been assembled by the Council following a transfer of ownership from Homes England (formerly Homes and Communities Agency) and the acquisition of neighbouring scrapyards. Full site investigations on the employment site have already been carried out thanks to funding through the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership.
0208-865-1922
The Mansion Gap: Where Priciest Home For Sale Is 72-Times The Cost Of Average Pad
ANGUS IN Scotland has the biggest Mansion Gap in Britain, with the most expensive house currently for sale costing more than 72-times that of the region’s average home – according to home move platform Just Move In. The UK's second most unequal region is the London borough of Westminster, where the priciest home for sale is a £54 million Mayfair townhouse with 12 bedrooms measureing 1,348 sqm - more than 14 times larger than the average 92 sqm home. It boasts one of the area’s largest private swimming pools, a fitness studio, spa pool, sauna, and a private screening room. Gwent, Surrey, Essex, Hampshire, North Yorkshire, Northamptonshire, Kent and Cheshire complete the top ten of Britain’s most unequal regions. The costliest homes are 23 times more expensive than the average home in England, 16 times more in Wales, and 13 times higher in Scotland. At the other end of the scale, inequality is at its lowest in Orkney and Shetland, where the most expensive property for sale is £595,000, just three times more than the region’s average of £183,000.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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Pioneering Walter Tull Inducted Into Hall Of Fame ONE OF ENGLISH football's first Black players, Walter Tull, has been posthumously inducted into the National Football Museum's Hall of Fame. Originally signed for Tottenham Hotspurs in 1909, he moving to Northampton Town two years later, where he played more than 100 games between 1911 and 1914 before he was killed in action during World War One, aged 29. "As a family we are absolutely delighted on behalf of Walter," said Tull's great-nephew Edward Finlayson. Subjected to insurmountable racist abuse during his football career before enlisting with Middlesex Regiment, part of a 'Footballers' Battalion' that recruited professional players from clubs after the outbreak of World War One, he became Britain's first Black army officer to command white troops, and was recommended for a Military Cross - a medal for gallantry - but did not get to receive it as he was shot on the battlefields of France.
BIRMINGHAM ANNOUNCES BID TO HOST THE 2024 EUROGAMES
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ride Sports, part of the Pride House Birmingham 2022 legacy programme, are have announced that they are bidding to bring the European Gay & Lesbian Sports Federation (EGLSF) EuroGames to Birmingham in the summer of 2024. EuroGames is Europe’s largest annual LGBTQI+ inclusive sports event. Birmingham 2024 will see an estimated 5,500 participants joining together across the city to compete in 23 different sports. The programme aims to be the most diverse yet and will include parasport as well as opportunities for all gender identities to compete. Pride House Birmingham,
is an LGBTIQ+ community welcome space for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, one of the world’s largest multi sports events coming to Birmingham in July next year. Pride House Birmingham is being developed and delivered by a local team, which includes local LGBTIQ+ community leaders Piero Zizzi and Neil Basterfield. Lou Englefield, Director of Pride Sports leading the bid said: “We have worked together with Birmingham City Council, UK sport’s national governing bodies and local LGBTIQ+ sports clubs to bring together what we believe is an extremely strong bid. We want, not only to host a fantastic, well organised event,
The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2021 - Page 47
SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS
Two new IPL franchises announced for 2022 season
as a celebration of LGBTIQ+ sporting enjoyment and excellence, but also to build the participation in sport and physical activity of LGBTIQ+ people in the West Midlands”
Birmingham will compete against Vienna for the rights to host the event and the winning bid will be announced by December 31 2021.
Two new franchises will compete in the Indian Premier League from 2022 after the RPSG Ventures conglomerate bid more than $930m (£675.2m) at an auction in Dubai to set up a team in the Indian city of Lucknow. CVC Capital partners promised more than $690m (£501m) to set up a team in Ahmedabad, home of the world's biggest cricket stadium - a 132,000 capacity. The 2022 IPL season will have 10 teams and 74 matches, with each team having seven home and seven away matches. Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), said: "The IPL will now go to two new cities in India in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. "It's heartening to see the inclusion of two new teams at such a high valuation, and reiterates the cricketing and financial strength of our cricket ecosystem. The auction process included two interested bidders from outside of India, which strongly emphasises the global appeal of the IPL as a sports property. "The IPL is proving to be a wonderful instrument in globalising the game of cricket. I'm keenly looking forward to IPL 2022."
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Pioneering Walter Tull inducted into Hall of Fame - Page 43
Birmingham announces bid to host the 2024 EuroGames- Page 43
EDGBASTON TO HOST INDIA TEST AND T20I FOLLOWING CHANGE TO 2022 SCHEDULE
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ne of Test cricket’s biggest fixtures is coming to Birmingham in 2022 with the England men’s team meeting India at Edgbaston Stadium from Friday 1 to Tuesday 5 July in a Test series decider. Following discussions with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Edgbaston has agreed to step in and host the rearranged fifth LV= Insurance men’s Test match, which was originally scheduled to be played in September 2021, due to the unavailability of the original venue. India hold a 2-1 lead in the Test series and will look to win their fourth outright series victory on English soil, and a first since 2007. As a result, the need to accommodate the India Test Match has had a knock-on effect to Edgbaston’s schedule: • The scheduled ODI between England and India at Edgbaston on Saturday 9 July will now be
played as a T20I, start time to be confirmed. • The Test match between England and South Africa in 2022 will now be held at Emirates Old Trafford. All tickets buyers for the originally scheduled South Africa Test match or India ODI will be contacted via email shortly regarding their tickets. Chief Executive, Stuart Cain said: “Following extensive discussions with the ECB, Emirates Old Trafford and BCCI, it was clear that the only way this Test could be played in the window available was if it moved to Edgbaston, so this is the right thing to do for the game. “It means that the finale of what’s already been a pulsating Test series will be held in Birmingham which is a great opportunity for the city to host another global sporting event. "This decision wasn’t taken lightly, and we know that there will be some cricket fans disappointed
by the fact that South Africa will no longer be coming to the city, but we will welcome them with open arms in future years.” India returns to Edgbaston for the 21st time in their history, looking to win their first Test and T20I at the venue. During their last Test series visit in 2018, Joe Root’s side edged a classic as Ben Stokes took four wickets in the final innings to give England victory in their 1,000th Test by 31 runs. Their solitary T20I also went the way of England with Captain Eoin Morgan crowned Player of the Match as England won by three runs. In total, India have played seven Tests, 12 ODIs and one T20I since 1967. These two matches against India will kick-off an exciting summer of cricket at Edgbaston. They will be followed by a sell-out Vitality Blast Finals Day, the inaugural women’s T20 tournament at the Commonwealth Games and The Hundred.
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John Barnes tells ‘The Uncomfortable Truth’
Cain added: “With India and the Commonwealth nations taking centre stage next year, this is a great opportunity for Edgbaston to show to the world what a vibrant, diverse and cohesive city Birmingham is, as well as the wider West Midlands and Warwickshire regions. “It’s also a brilliant showcase for women’s sport following on
from the success of the Hundred. So, we will work with the City Council and local communities to make sure we don’t waste this opportunity to promote the region’s diversity and inclusion to the 500,000 people who will be taking their seat at Edgbaston to watch cricket of one form or another over the summer months.”
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AN ELOQUENT and thought-provoking book on racism and prejudice by Liverpool and England legend John Barnes. He spent the first dozen years of his life in Jamaica before moving to the UK with his family in 1975. Six years later he was a professional footballer, distinguishing himself for Watford, Liverpool and England, and in the process becoming this country's most prominent Black player. Barnes is now an articulate and captivating social commentator on a broad range of issues, and in ‘The Uncomfortable Truth About Racism’ he tackles head-on the issues surrounding prejudice with his trademark intelligence and authority. By vividly evoking his personal experiences, and holding a mirror to this country's past, present and future, Barnes provides a powerful and moving testimony. He wants readers to have a more honest conversation about racism in Britain. In his new book he argues that we focus too much on sensational incidents — football fans racially abusing Black players, for example — at the expense of the bigger picture. “Football,” he writes, “can do nothing about getting rid of racism until we get rid of racism in society generally.” Racism in society is not about divisions between races. It is about a division between elites and non-elites, he argues. “The only way to truly destroy racism is to destroy capitalism,” he says. “And the only way to achieve true equality for all is by creating a socialist society, and that’s not about to happen just yet.” ‘The Uncomfortable Truth About Racism’ will help to inform and advance the global conversation around society's ongoing battle with the awful stain of prejudice.