Street Cred Magazine - November 2017

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 15

Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

NOVEMBER 2017

GET READY FOR THE AFROBBEAN TAKEOVER /streetcredmagazine

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Editors note

U

K music is definitely at its most high right now especially with the Grime Genre.

There is no denying the massive influence this is having

on young people right now and its prince Stormzy is showing that by being at the judges house on X Factor.

Yes the show is getting a little hip and putting who is hot out there in the forefront. They still need to work on their judging process but that is just my opinion.

Oh and speaking of Stormzy the man was on Grm Daily rated awards and apart from his top notch performance what stood out for me was wen he said ‘Americans can s~~~ck our d*cks, we’re not playing your game any more’.

I was like whoah thats abit

heavy. We think he means its time UK support each other and stop buying into everyone else so if he meant it that way I am backing him 100 percent.

Our cover this month is Birminghams very own Lotto Boyzz who have recently signed a deal with a major label, have a tour on the way and in the MOBO nomination for best newcomer.

Looks like they will be the biggest thing since Lady Leshurr.

Its looking real good out there for urban music, demand is still high and there is whole new wave of young acts coming through. Big up the internet!

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#VELVET SATURDAYS Saturday nights at Velvet are just amazing! Check out the brilliant Halloween photos

where people really made the effort to look er scarily sexy!

DJs on the night were Mister I & DJ Corey, hosted by Mark Dwayne.

WIN TICKETS to bassjam You can win tickets to see Cardi B and Bugzy Malone at BassJam Wolverhampton. All you have to do is answer the simple question on the Street Cred website www.streetcredmagazine.com

l Stormzy

The Rated Awards went OFF! Check out some of the action here!

l Stefflon Don l Stormzy with Krept and Konan

l Mostack

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 17

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Kanye is looking rather well now!

Busta Rhymes ...really?

Y

es everybody is talking about the weight Kanye has put on recently.

There have been memes and words of depression but we see different we think the brother looks good and happiest we seen.

He usually looks miserable but of late you see Kanye with a smile on his face. Hmm whats he up to? Think there will be a jay z reunion? We hope not think they are better off apart.

B

usta we love you but please your attempt at Jamaican Accent is not the best but your reppin yard big so we leave you.

Hot video though, Girlfriend feat Tory Lanes and Vybz Kartel.

Lady Loves Life Lady Leshurr is proud as she brought her mum a new house #workrate #streetcredmagazine

Street Cred Magazine Top 20 Chart 1. Stefflon Don feat French Montanna –Hurting me 2. Lotto Boyz featuring Chipmunk –No Don [remix] 3. Inch featuring Trillary BanksPepper and Spice 4. Kyla feat Popcaan- You aint Mine 5. Mabel feat Kojo Funds –Finders Keepers

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6. Steel Banglez -Money 7. Rihanna feat Bryson Tiller – Wild Thoughts 8. Big Shaq – Mans Not Hot 9. Yungen –Bestie 10. Mabel –Finders Keepers 11. Busta Rhymes feat Vybz Kartel -Girlfriend 12. Wretch 32 ft Kojo Funds – Tell Me

Adina Howard blows away fans at the MVISAs

T

he first US artist to perform at the MVISAs was the legendary Adina Howard..yes we know that T Shirt and Freak in the Morning classics.

Here she is with support from Zara Sykes who was blown away meeting her and performing on stage with her.

13. Donaeo If you let me 14. Lethal Bizzle featuring Donaeo – Celebration 15. Cardi B – Bodack Yellow 16. Wstrn feat Alkaline – Txtin 17. Jay Z feat Damien Marley – Bam 18. J Hus- Did You see 19. Kojo Funds –Warning 20. Stormzy- 4pm in London

Open

The girl that got away from Destinys Child Somebody said that Latavia the original member of Destinys Child got an album out?

Wow we know this will be hot. We imagine that Old Skool R&B!

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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

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Lux Afrique Nigerian Independence Celebrations 2017

T

he super high profile Nigerian 57th Independence bash was organised by Lux Afrique to celebrate positive Nigerians doing great things around the world.

This event was strictly invitation only for the 150 high profile guests from the film, television, music, business, sports, politics and high fashion industries. The event took place at the luxury Claridges Hotel.

The brains behind Lux Afrique is Alex Amosu the young Nigerian sensation who made £6million at the age of 24 from mobile ringtones.

At age 27 he sold the company for £9 million and went into other exciting things. Alex now spends his time designing luxury fashion and technology products to the rich.

Some of you may know he created the world's most expensive suit in laid with pure gold, which is in the Guiness Book of Records as the world's most expensive suit,

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l Lux Afrique, Alex Amosu with his mother, and aunt Ayaba Jana Shodiya

Do you want

l The Amosu brothers and their mom Princess Adenike Kamson-Amosu. bought by a Russian Oil tycoon.

Alex had the first Nigerian independence celebrations last year for only 60 exclusive people, that event was sponsored by Cartier.

However many people were upset they were not invited, so this year he extended it to 150 people.

This year's event was in association with Chopard and First Bank who were the main spon-

sors. There were expensive luxury jewellery on display all over the ballroom.

There was an auction and the money raised were split between two charities, the Lagos food bank, and the AA Green Box, which is the Alex Amosu charity.

The charity focuses on delivering a green box with enough food to feed a family of four for one

week during Christmas.

Chopard had a raffle draw and the winner won a prize of a luxury watch worth £7000. I chose Eniola Aluko, the England International and Chelsea player to draw the winning raffle. The room exploded when the winning ticket was drawn!

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 19

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Agony Aunt

BIGScreen

review

A Rose Between Thorns

l Dr Saroj ‘Rose’ Duggal

I

‘ve been really concerned about a friend of mine, and I’m not sure what I should do.

They have been acting really weird lately, not like themselves.

They’ve been really detracted from the group, not responding to our messages, and just staying in their room at Uni all the time.

They just go to their lectures, then lock themselves in their room, only coming out to shop and eat.

They used to be so upbeat, the life and soul of the party, always out every weekend with us all having a great time.

I think it started when he broke up with his girlfriend, they’ve been together for about 5 years, and since coming to uni their relationship broke down.

I really want to help him, but everything I seem to do just doesn’t work. He doesn’t want to come out, barely even answers his door to us anymore and I don’t think he’s really taking care of himself.

What I can do to help? ~Peter, Edinburgh Dear Peter, It sounds like your friend may be depressed, probably caused by the breakdown of his relationship.

As I said in my column last month, long distance relationships are difficult at the best of times, and for young love, especially through all the stresses and strains of university, sometimes it can be the kiss of death for a relationship.

You’re doing everything right by trying to be there for him, but at the end of the day you’ve got to let him sort this out in his own time.

Let him know that you’re there for him, and hopefully when he’s ready he will come back out of his shell.

I wish you and him all the best, he is lucky to have a caring friend like you!

Don’t forget you can contact me by emailing your queries in to rose@thephoenixnewspaper. com. I look forward to hearing from you!

Thor: Ragnarok

W

ith the rise of an all-powerful villain named Hela, Thor finds himself lost in the vast expanses of the cosmos.

Imprisoned on a strange planet on the other side of the universe, the mighty Thor finds himself forced into a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against a former ally.

Lost and alone, Thor's quest for survival leads him in a race against time to prevent Hela from destroying Asgard and wiping out their entire civilisation.

Marvel Studios are known for exploring various genres within their superhero movies - Captain America: The First Avenger is a war film.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier is an espionage thriller.

Ant-Man is a heist-comedy, and so on. Well, it's hard to pin down exactly what genre Thor: Ragnarok is, because it's an amalgamation of every genre you can think of, but whatever it is, it's brilliant.

Hiring the wickedly talented and hysterically funny Taika Waititi to oversee Thor's latest adventure was a stroke of absolute genius, as Waititi is the first filmmaker to tackle a Thor-centric

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

November 01 Rise Against 02 Logic 03 The Spitfires 03 Clean Bandit 04 Kaleo: Express Tour 05 Craig David presents TS5 09 The Undertones 15 Nelly 16 Wolf Alice 18 The Doors Alive 20 The LaFontaines 22 Bryson Tiller 25 The Prince Experience 28 Northlane

O2 INSTITUTE

November 01 Switchfoot 02 AJ Tracey 03 Glasville 04 Cradle of Filth 06 Goldfrapp 07 Boyce Avenue 08 Ride 10 MoStack 11 Newton Faulkner 14 The Lemon Twigs 15 Lucie Silvas 18 Insane Clown Posse

story who fully understands the preposterousness of it all and embraces it, leading to one of the most consistently entertaining Marvel movies to date - and that's saying something.

Littered with colourful and quirky characters, strange and visually stunning locations and a fast-paced approach to its storytelling, Thor: Ragnarok is not only the best of Thor's standalone movies, but it's easily in the upper echelon of this long-running Cinematic Universe as a whole.

By far the biggest movie Taika Waititi has ever made, it's easy to understand the reservations many people had upon his announcement, but his work here speaks of a truly talented filmmaker who can clearly thrive in any environment.

He's made the jump from micro-budget independent films to big-budget blockbusters without breaking of sweat.

He handles almost every element wonderfully, from the comedy to the explosive action. The only time he really falters is during the (admittedly few) dramatic moments within the movie.

You can see Waititi's comedic tendencies screaming to be re-

23 The Back to Africa Roots Tour 23 Yungen 24 The Divine Comedy 29 Lotto Boyzz

NEC

November 02-05 Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts 03-05 Cake International 03-05 Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing Festival 04-05 The National Pet Show 10-12 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show 10-12 Classic Motorbike Show 16-19 Festive Gift Fair 16-18 The Skills Show 18-19 MCM Birmingham Comic Con 18-26 Motorcycle Live 2017 23-26 Antiques for Everyone Winter Fair 2017 24-25 National Engineering & Construction Recruitment

ARENA BIRMINGHAM November 04 Jamiroquai 05 Taekwondo British Championships 07 WWE Live

leased, so in moments the audience could have been left to ruminate and form a genuine emotional connection with the characters, we are instead rushed off headfirst in to more comedy .

While the comedy never disappoints, it sometimes feels like a missed opportunity to make Ragnarok more dramatic and involving.

However, while the film may not bring you to tears in an emotional way, it may very well bring you to tears from laughter, so it's difficult to be disappointed with a movie that's this much fun to experience.

Thor: Ragnarok looks gorgeous, with weird, wonderful and vibrant worlds being brought to life

by Marvel Studio's world class artists, set designers and visual effects teams.

Captured by veteran cinematographer Javier Aguirresarobe (Blue Jasmine, The Road, The Sea Inside), with the movie's energy and enthusiasm being matched by editors Zene Baker and Joel Negron keeping things ploughing along at a break-neck pace.

With every compliment one could throw at Thor: Ragnarok, there isn't enough time in the day

08 Sean Paul 10-12 John Bishop 13 Blondie 14 Alice Cooper 19 Depeche Mode 21 James Blunt 23 Bananarama 24 Enter Shikari 30 Queen + Adam Lambert

GENTING ARENA

November 06-07 The Killers 11 Free Radio Live 2017 17-18 Little Mix 25 James Arthur 27 Elvis in Concert

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

November 01 Reformation Symphony (SH) 02 Collabro 2017 (SH) 03 Star Wars (SH) 03 Jason Byrne (TH) 04 Dudley International Piano Competition (SH) 05 Gospel Goes Charity (TH) 05 Rob Brydon (SH) 06 Maria João Pires (TH)

wORDS by antony brown

to express just how good the cast is.

Chris Hemsworth IS Thor and Ragnarok really cements his place in the history of superhero cinema.

Ragnarok is, in part, a story of Thor finding himself, which is ironic, because Hemsworth truly finds his definitive Thor here and it's a joy to watch him light up the screen with his charisma and new found zest for the character.

Waititi's improvisational approach to the making of this film gave Hemsworth the freedom to become something more than the one dimensional God of Thunder, revealing a truly funny, warm and sensitive character who doubts himself and is starting to question his place in the universe and amongst his people.

There's some fantastic character development here which I'm sure will push the character of Thor closer to the top of many people's list of favourite Marvel heroes.

The same can be said for Tom Hiddleston's Loki, who is as smarmy and belligerent as ever, all while a new found warmth begins to emerge.

Before, Loki was a character we all loved to hate, but you may leave Thor: Ragnarok straight up loving him.

Mark Ruffalo is also funnier than ever as Bruce Banner/Hulk and, for the first time ever, spends the majority of his screen time as his big, green counterpart - who can now talk, ladies and gentleman!

That's right, since the last time we saw him in Avengers: Age of Ultron, Hulk has developed the vocabulary of a three-year-old, resulting in some wickedly funny interactions with many of the characters, most notably Thor.

Seeing one of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel universe with the mental capacity of a toddler is a wonderful juxtaposition and it's impossible not to smile

07 Stephen Fry (SH) 11 Billy Bragg (TH) 12 Gok Wan Naked and Baring All (TH) 13 Martine McCutcheon (TH) 15 Festival of the Spoken Nerd (TH) 18 Jimmy Carr (SH) 22 The RAF in Concert (SH) 24 Moneypennys Night At The Proms (SH) 27 An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

November 01 Jimeoin 02 Itch 04 Craig Campbell 05 Funny Things Comedy Club 07 Embrace 08 Arcane Roots 09 Lynch Mob 10 Grave Pleasures 12 Flo 14 Newton Faulkner 16 King Parrot 17 H.E.A.T. 19 Daniel Sloss 21 Echobelly 25 Midlands Metal Crusade

watching him lumber around like a stroppy child.

The new cast members are also fantastic - Tessa Thompson as Valkyrie looks like she's having an absolute blast playing the character, which is always fun to see and she is a very welcome addition to the ever-expanding universe.

She's tough, she's funny and she may very well become a new favourite amongst young girls and boys.

Then, of course, there's Jeff Goldblum who is as "Jeff Goldblum" as you've ever seen him before. He's charming, he's quirky and he's hysterically funny - so basically Jeff Goldblum plays himself, which is exactly why you hire somebody like Jeff Goldblum because, well, who doesn't love Jeff Goldblum?

Cate Blanchett also emerges as the film's primary villain, Hela a deeply powerful character who accomplishes more in Thor: Ragnarok than most villains accomplish across multiple movies.

While Blanchett's performance is fun, one couldn't help but wish they had taken a different approach with her character.

Thor: Ragnarok, at its core, is a comedy through and through, so it stands to reason that they'd take a comedic approach with the character, but it's hard not to wonder what this character could have been if she was given the freedom to be truly nasty.

It could have been a nice balance to have the comedy everywhere else, but allow the villain to remain intense and threatening.

So, even in a franchise that includes two exquisite Guardians of the Galaxy adventures, Thor: Ragnarok now holds the distinct honour of being the quirkiest, wackiest and funniest Marvel movie to date.

It's big, it's strange, it's unwaveringly weird and it's hysterically funny from beginning to end.

What it lacks in emotionally involving drama, it makes up for with pure joyous entertainment.

Thor: Ragnarok will no-doubt be up there with the most fun you'll have in a cinema all year.

2017 29 Electric Boys

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

02 Rich Hall (Wulfrun) 03 Jimmy Carr (Civic) 03 Lee Nelson (Wulfrun) 04 Milton Jones Is Out There (Civic) 04 Midlands Calling (Wulfrun) 07 John Bishop (Civic) 08 Black Star Riders (Wulfrun) 11 Grand Slam Of Darts (Civic) 20 Robert Plant And The Sensational Space (Civic) 21 Placebo (Civic) 22 Sean Lock (Civic) 23 Goldie (Civic) 23 Mr Big Plus The Answer & Faster Pussycat (Wulfrun) 24 Fleet Foxes (Civic) 24 Paul Chowdhry (Wulfrun) 26 Joe Longthorne (Wulfrun) 29 Mark Lanegan Band (Wulfrun) 30 Chris Eubank’s One Man Show (Wulfrun)

Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

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FUTURE AND YOUNG THUG RELEASE NEW MIXTAPE "SUPER SLIMEY" Future and Young Thug, Two of the most innovative rappers in the world, have released a brand new mixtape, "Super Slimey".

Tracklisting: No Cap Three All da Smoke

Chris Brown brags about being the best writer

T

his young guy there is no stopping him and he will tell you himself that half the other artist ain’t got nothing on him.

Well you could say that he is the most consistant R&B star since R Kelly fell off. This guy has over 800 songs and he is releasing 45 songs on this new album.

Yes you heard that right, 45 songs!

Fans are in for a treat.

200 Cruise Ship Patek Water Feed Me Dope Drip on Me Real Love 4 da Gang Killed Before Mink Flow Group Home

LAST OF THE

T

his is the future of pop, Afrobbean is the sound everyone is bopping to!

Young people have spoken and bringing the flava representing the streets. We have never seen anything like this coming from the UK, especially Birmingham.

You may have seen these guys on Link Up TV with videos reaching up to millions of views. It is unheard of with underground artists to have such a following and the unique thing with this is its not grime, we have a mix of R&B and Hip Hop with this duo.

We spoke to the urban duo who came to the Street Cred Offices to talk about their fans, touring and their new major record deal.

The Lotto Boyzz are truly a new breed and are not following in the footsteps of anyone, they are making their own history!

Underground artists usually are not seen, it’s just the tracks that do the talkin, but in this internet era artists have had massive videos, and Lotto Boyzz have been smashing the university scene all over the country, as well as festivals before even being signed.

Ash X Lucas are from Aston, Birmingham who met in a local community centre. So with a name like Lotto one would assume it would be that they stumbled into big cash but what it really means is ‘Last Of The True Ones’.

Lotto Boyzz’s huge hit ‘No Don’ is the single that blew up big and it looks like its set to be even bigger as the legendary Chipmunk has jumped on the remix and video.

They are proud to be from Birmingham as you know from their song actually titled ‘Birmingham’ featuring Jaekae, another up and coming Brum MC.

Dressed absolutely fresh and and chilling in our board room the nicest guys you could ever meet.

The Lotto boyz aged 20 were ready to reveal their champagne rockstar lifestyle that many would only dream of.

If its the women the cars, Bling, you see Lotto.

MD: How I first heard of the Lotto Boyz was I was in the office and No Don came up and I saw guys popping bottles with models and I saw that it was filmed in Birmingham Mailbox and first thing I thought was that you guys were from London. I wanted to be in the video.

Lotto boyz: [laugh] Yes it’s important that we come with quality.

Lucas: We want to solidify the sound and for Lotto Boyz to be really respected for the music.

MD: Who are your fans?

Ash: We get a lot of girls but recently weve had a lot of men push to the front ha!

MD: What was it like touring with JHUS and Mist?

Ash: Definately a good experience for us and eye opener. We also toured with Cardi B and that was heavy as they asked us to do that.

It just goes to show how far we can go.

MD: What was it like working with Chip?

Ash: Chip is legendary and someone who we look up to and it was mad as we saw him sharing No Don on Twitter so when it happened where we got in the sudio and it connected from there.

We knew the chemistry would be as good and it was!

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 21

CTO STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

SPECIAL REPORT Despite Hurricanes Irma and Maria wreaking havoc on the region, the industry as a whole continues to look forward, to

The Future Of The Caribbean

Recover, Rebuild, Remarket The Caribbean is open for business!

If you take away just one thing from this report, let it be the statement above.

What has been abundantly clear in the reporting of the recent tragic natural disasters to hit the Caribbean has been the lack of knowledge, even by some media outlets, of the geography of the Caribbean.

The overarching sentiment of a lot of people, both in the US, UK and beyond, is that due to these hurricanes, the Caribbean is a nogo area for a while until it rebuilds.

If something happens in London, it doesn’t stop people in Birmingham going about their daily business.

A disaster in Florida won’t affect California from welcoming visitors to its hotels.

So why, when some islands in the Caribbean, which can be double or even triple the distance apart compared to a Birmingham to London commute, are struck by a natural disaster, do people feel that the

region as a whole is out for the count?

Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, Mr Hugh Riley said it most prominently in his opening speech of the conference.

“The best way to help the Caribbean, is to visit the Caribbean.”

Yes, there has been very heavy damage to some of the islands in the Caribbean, but there are so many other islands that were untouched by the recent disasters.

While the rebuilding efforts are ongoing, and donations and aid are coming in from across the Carib-

bean, and indeed the world, the sense of unity, and shared burden between the nations of the Caribbean is evident.

Together, the region is stronger, but it needs the help of everyone to do it. Don’t change your plans of a Caribbean holiday, just change which island you are going to visit.

There is so much to see, so much to do, and so much to experience in the Caribbean. While parts may be on the back foot right now, they will soon be back and ready to welcome you with the legendary hospitality that visitors have come to expect.

“The best way to help the Caribbean, is to visit the Caribbean.”

- CTO Secretary General Hugh Riley

l A view of St George’s Carenage in the beautiful Spice of the Caribbean, Grenada, which played host to the 2017 Caribbean Tourism Organisation State of the Tourism Industry Conference.

Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE 2017

Welcome to the Spic

Gren D

estination tours were arranged for members of the media to experience a bit more of what Grenada has to offer.

Taking part in the Black Gold Tour, we were treated to the history of the spices of the region, including the amazing claim that every spice that is grown anywhere in the world, is also grown in Grenada.

Spice by name, spice by nature, Grenada truly is the Isle of Spice.

Starting the day at the Clarkes Court distillery, the group was taken through the processes that used to all happen on the island, although due to a lack of interest in farming Sugar Cane, the molasses are now imported into the island.

The tour explained the distilling process from sugar cane, syrup and molasses, to rum, and also the aging, blending and bottling processes of making rum.

As well as getting a fill of rum, the tour also took us to the Dia-

mond Chocolate Factory, where the process of making up to 100% Dark Chocolate was explained, and we even had a chance to not only taste the finished product, but see a lot of the ingredients growing in the area around, including a Nutmeg tree.

We were then taken to a nutmeg processing plant, where we discovered that nutmeg originates in a fruit, which opens and a shell

C

ontinuing with the local theme, there was a film screening in the local Camerhogne Park, where a number of local traders were invited to treat the delegates to a bit of local hospitality.

Featuring mouth watering food and drink options, including a number of stunning stews, chicken and sweets, no one left with an empty

that is covered in mace is freed, this is then dried, and processed until you have the little nutmegs you see in the picture.

The last stop was the Spice Market, which smelt amazing with so many locally sourced spices, as well as the young gentleman above, who made beautiful items from driftwood.

Grenada truly is an interesting and diverse island.

BB’s Crabback

B

B, this larger than life character who made his name in London for many years looked after our empty stomachs so well.

With a beautifully cooked Mahi Mahi, fluffy Rice and Peas served in a piece of Bamboo, and cocktails that hit the spot just perfectly, BB had something for everyone.

Finished off with sumptuously creamy Nutmeg ice cream, everyone left BB’s Crabback with a smile on their face, and a very full stomach.

belly.

Alongside those stalls were local tradesmen and women, including carvings, woven baskets, spices, sauces and syrups, soft furnishings and much more.

It was a lovely way to see more of what the island has to offer, something that the regular tourist would like to see and be part of, that authentic Grenadian experience.

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 23

STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE 2017

ce of the Caribbean

T

nada

his year, CTO’s SOTIC was held at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort which offers the complete Caribbean experience with beachfront rooms, a rejuvenating spa, a dive shop and four island-themed restaurants on site.

You are able to relax on your private balcony before exploring the enchanting Grand Anse Beach, just steps away.

Sailing Savvy

D

anny Donelan from Sailing Savvy Tours took a group of the media out for the afternoon in one of his beautifully hand crafted vessels.

Starting in St George’s Harbour, the group sailed up the coast to the site of the Underwater Sculpture Park.

With snorkelling gear on

board, and one of the best tour guides money could buy, the group experienced the beauty of these underwater art pieces.

For those wanting a more authentic sailing experience in Grenada, look no further than Savvy, with great prices, a warm welcome, and amazing memories, you can’t go wrong.

The variety of local dishes on offer to the delegates was astounding and delicious!

The final night saw everyone gathered on the beach, eating beautifully prepared

Building History

Continuing with the local art of boatbuilding, while on Grenada’s sister island, Carriacou, we met with Anthony McLawrence, who has over 48 years of experience, having started when he was just 20.

The vessels he creates are beautiful, but take him upwards of a year per boat to painstakingly handcraft.

Retailing for approximately $300,000, the boat you can see here should be ready in January 2018.

food and drinking as the waves lapped at their feet.

It was a great way to round off what had been an intense schedule of conference sessions.

With beautiful local dishes available for all meals throughout the day, as well as a wide variety of beautifully created dishes on offer, the Radisson really had it all, although do not let that stop you from exploring the rest of the island!

While there may be brilliant amenities on site, tastefully decorated rooms and friendly staff, there is so much more to see outside of the resort!

Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE 2017

State of the Tourism Industry Conference Sessions

D

espite the black cloud of the recent Hurricanes hanging gloomily over the heads of all delegates, there was a lot to look forward to, celebrate, and learn at this years conference.

Delegates heard from highly skilled panels experts and peers, who highlighted some of the things about the Caribbean region as a whole that may prove to be exactly what is needed.

‘Who are the new travellers?” heard of the niche markets that are growing rapidly, be it the new female traveller, over fifties, or even hipsters, there was something for everyone to take away and put into practice to attract these new travellers.

“Spicing up the Caribbean brand” had a brilliant range of speakers, talking on everything from gastronomic experiences tailor made for guests, to multi-destination tourism initiatives,

and finally on the attraction of Comic Con, the massive gaming, anime and comic convention in the United States, and the Barbados-based AnimeKon which has seen a massive increase in participants year on year, as well as creating another new target market, the “geek-cation”.

The main topic underlying most of the sessions at SOTIC2017 was that of Rebuild and Recover: The Future of Caribbean Tourism.

These sessions on the middle

day of the conference spoke of the cold hard truth of the state of the Caribbean following hurricanes Maria and Irma.

Calculating the real economic cost of disaster, looking towards defenses, sustainability and rebuilding, and educating the world about the Caribbean, were all major points brought to light.

With over 70% of the Caribbean unaffected by the hurricanes, the reality of the situation is that the Caribbean is truly open for business, but with a severe lack of media presence, and misinformation by a number of alleged ‘reputable’ news sources, the region was effectively ‘out for the count’.

Whatever needs to be done in the Caribbean to bring it back to its true glory, it needs to be done now, and it needs to be done

quickly. Pledges of aid from across the world are brilliant, as are donations, but if the people on the ground don’t see the benefit of those pledges and donations, what really was the point?

There needs to be a balancing act between being sensitive to those areas affected by these natural disasters, both now and in the future, but there also needs to be an element of each nation that is able to stating proudly that it is open for business.

Without these unified voices, of ALL the nations of the Caribbean promoting themselves as well as the CTO doing its part, the loss of tourism to the region is something that will massively affect everyone.

There were massive positives to take away from the SOTIC, and

with recent issues still fresh in the mind, you can bet that everyone is set on moving forward together.

As always one of the final sessions was the Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress, which saw some of the brightest minds from across the Caribbean step forward as Junior Ministers of Tourism.

In the face of everything that has happened to the region over the last few months, the bright, articulate and knowledgable Junior Ministers enthralled the audience time and again, with their quick thinking and brilliant presentation skills.

This years winner was Francis Alexander from St Lucia, who climbed above the rest of his Junior Ministers to come out on top.

Congratulations!

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 25

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

TRUE ONES MD: Who have you grown up admiring?

MD: What makes you guys different to other urban acts?

Lucas: Yes it was Ash’s turn this time around, he ‘Facetime Me’!

Ash: have to say Michael Jackson and Usher as I just love the impact and tunes like Confessions ah man.

Ash: You cant be negative when you’re in the room with us, we bring that positivity that makes people smile. When you’re around us you will party!

MD: What was the most memorable festival you have performed at?

Lucas: For me it has to be 2pac, & Biggie; just what they stood for and the work ethic inspired me.

MD: Who would you love to work with?

Ash: It would have to be Ed Shereen as I just couldn’t believe how lyrical he was.

When he came with the lyrics its too cold for angels to fly I was like wow thats next level!

Also have to do a tune with Drake that would be the goals, them two man there.

MD: Do you think there are many artists from Brum that deserve recognition, and if so who?

Ash: Defo got a lot of talent in the city and all we needed is just the eyes. We have the eyes but they are on Sefone, Jaekae and I know everybody wants to hear what Mist is going to come with next.

MD: Was it hard coming up or easy?

MD: You say you got a lot of guys who follow you and I’ve noticed that you have a lot of guys singing your songs which you don’t see much. Same think with Drake, you guys seems to be opening up male emotions!

Lucas: I defo say it was hard.

We started as Ash x Lucas and no one was feeling us but then we changed our name that was given to us and thats when things started to shift.

Ash: Ha ha yeh we just sing lyrics guys can relate to. I mean everyone sometime in their life had been blanked [starts singing the lyrics from No Don] I used to call up Lexie, Alisha and Paige and never get an answer.

MD: I notice you have the bling in your videos, is it important to have you in the jacuzzi with hot women?

Lucas: It’s true every man can relate to that and sing it ha ha!

Ash: Nearly all of them but Reading festival was mad like 15,000 people singing the songs!

Lucas: For me it was made in Birmingham that festival was live.

Ash: I love performing Birmingham to out of town as you see everyone showing love for our city its mad.

SEE MORE OF THIS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW ON STREETCRED MAGAZINE TV WITH MARK DWAYNE AND HEAR WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY ABOUT LADIES, ED SHEREEN AND ER SMOOTHIES..ITS AN INTERESTING WATCH!

C

atch the new generation of Reggae Roots artists RANDY VALENTINE, J BOOG, SEVANA & BLACK AM I, as they explore the music based journey Back To Africa.

As reggae enjoys a fresh renaissance with a spiritual and roots theme, this tour brings together artists from Jamaica, UK and Hawaii for a night of positivity, love and good vibes.

Based in the UK, Randy Valentine has garnered a strong following across Europe with his quality writing and superb delivery.

Grammy Nominated J Boog has recently completed touring with Morgan heritage, and his album "Wash House Ting" has seen him elevated to the reggae elite.

Sevana is part of the impressive camp which includes Protoje and producer Winta James and was one of the vocalists on Protoje's hit "Sudden Flight" Part of Damian Marley's team, Black Am I is one of the leading lights in the new roots movement, who has worked alongside Damian for the last four years.

Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

TEEN FLAIR

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WHAT CAN I LOOK FORwARD TO?

Welcome to another edition of Teen Flair!

B

lack history month has arrived! I recently took part in a music performance in the crescent theatre in Birmingham.

The #blackhistoryexperience was a great success! How did you celebrate? I encourage you to go watch a play, or maybe a movie, or even try to get involved in your school/ college production.

As some might know, I study level 3 performing arts, and the topic for this month is the

windrush ship.

Maybe start a convo with your grandparents, how did they come to the UK? Use black history month as a chance to educate yourself with

friends or family, no matter if you’re black, white, blue, pink or purple, celebrate with us!

I encourage you all to take a visit to Oaklands centre, in Birmingham, Handsworth.

The Centre was established in the 70’s and has been running since and is now a purpose Youth facility as part of Birmingham Youth Service.

Since the age of 14 I used to visit the Oaklands centre after school to make use of facilities such as the studio, the gaming section, and talks and projects that were run by various people.

I think it’s so important for giving teens something to do, whether it’s after school, weekends or summer!

Oaklands centre provide mentors if in need of advice or just someone to talk to.

My 5 Personal statement tips!

S

o, as some maybe struggling to write personal statements, whilst trying to juggle school work, personal life, if there’s a will… there’s a way so here are my

1. Start with a opening that will make them continue to read

JOBS

From the first line of my personal statement I wanted the reader to glimpse of who I was straight away.

To write a great story and for the writer to continue reading it’s important you build character that the readers will connect with.

Think about it like this, this is your story, but it’s not finished yet and the chosen course you choose, will be the great ending you’ll need to finish your story!

2. Be honest

Honesty is key! If you’ve been through challenges, and learnt from them the speak them.

Now i’m not saying tell them your whole life story, however many of us throughout education have went through a lot of hard times, but what qualities of your character did you develop through those times?

What is it that’s gonna keep you pushing through the difficult times of university or your apprenticeship?

3. Confidence not cockiness

Okay so I think it’s safe to say, a lot of people can get over excited, and confidence is important, but mostly I want to say it’s important to show belief in yourself whilst writing your personal statement, because if you don’t believe you, they definitely won’t believe you.

Maybe, it’s that growing up

4. Read book blurbs or the first sentences in a book

I feel this is better to do then reading personal statement examples, so that it it will stop you from copying them or from structuring your personal statement exactly the same.

Read books and blurbs mostly the books that are trying to sell you something, or even pay attention to adverts on TV.

5. Teachers are there to help!

Utilize the people around you, including teachers and family, surround yourself with likeminded people, preferably with same vision that want to see you succeed!

Joshua 1:9

Temporary Christmas Sales Associate (Part-time)

Temporary Christmas Sales Associate Contact - 020 8579 3935 (Part-time)

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, including sales related commission scheme and a staff discount.

you have always been the ‘shy one’ but maybe there’s experiences you’ve been through that’s helped to push you out your comfort zone, mention them!

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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

KEEP IN TOUCH As we are all aware there is power in social media, I will be using these networking sites, to promote this newspaper page, and #TEAMFLAIR which will not only advertise, but will promote what to look forward to in the newspaper.

I’m not only hoping to create just another column, but a movement, for young people of all races.

Young people will also have the opportunity to see what jobs are hiring; jobs create independence and not only jobs but free online educational courses, that young people could access.

This is the place to be November 4th, a free event, for all you singers and rappers out there.

You don’t want to miss this one!

There will be opportunities to network as well

Go and check out new twitter page #TEAMFLAIR twitter page! To keep updated with activities, polls and more, do not forget to hashtag #Teamflair

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 27

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Getaway Stars T

he capital’s biggest and best classic car spectacular – the record-breaking London Classic Car Show – is growing yet again.

For 2018, organisers are lining up a number of special displays, one of which will be Getaway Cars – an evocative homage to those vehicles as used by infamous criminals in headline grabbing robberies, with some of those made famous in films joining the display.

Car Club Square is another welcome returnee and, now with more space, and over 30 clubs. The country’s leading one-make clubs will be staging displays of their favourite ma-

chines, with club members onhand to discuss the merits of their chosen marque or model.

Another feature to make a popular return is The Grand Avenue, a ground-breaking all-action roadway running through the very centre of the show and along which some of the world’s greatest classic road and competition cars will be driven.

It means The London Classic Car Show is no mere static exhibition but a living, breathing tribute to the automobile… where else can you see Le Mans winners, Grand Prix racers, classic supercars and century-old veterans in action in the centre of the capital?

DriveSafe Calls for Action

B irmingham - based DriveSafe & StaySafe has called for a national focus on road safety education after a big rise in the number of children killed on Britain’s roads.

The not-for-profit organisation behind ‘The Conies, a family of cartoon characters that provide safety role models for children, has been shocked by the steep rise.

The number of under-15s killed on UK roads rose to 69 in 2016, up 28% on the previous year and the highest number since 2009, according to Department for Transport figures. The Government has stated that these show “no clear trend.”

Fay Goodman, DriveSafe Director, said: “This is shocking news. Contrary to the Government’s response, the annual figure for child deaths and serious injuries on the roads has been rising in recent years following 20 years of year-on-year falls since 1995.

“We urgently need to do more to keep our children safe particularly in the face of dangerous driving behavior and parking around school gates.”

She says she created The Conies as a registered charity to help keep children safe: “We wanted to educate primary school children in road safety with the help of fun characters they could identify with.”

Discovery Expedition Beams The Desert Into The Classroom

T

housands of children will explore the vast Jordanian desert and learn about water conservation thanks to a unique Land Rover Discovery expedition.

The specially prepared Discovery family SUV will support the recipients of the 2017 Land Rover Bursary, administered by the Royal Geographical Society (with the IBG).

The ‘Water Diaries’ expedition will cross one of the driest countries on the planet to investigate how the population manages its most precious resource, water.

The three-man team, led by geography teacher Fearghal O’Nuallain, was waved off on its month-long journey by year

11 pupils from St Peter’s Catholic School, Solihull.

The pupils will follow O’Nuallain’s regular online broadcasts to support their geography studies and thousands of others across the UK and Ireland are expected to join in Team leader Fearghal O’Nuallain said: “The Discovery is going to be critical to the success of our trip. It will take us across the vast sand dunes and rocky terrain of Jordan while carrying everything we need.

“Beyond simple transport, the specially enhanced SUV will also be our accommodation, laboratory, classroom and broadcast studio for four weeks.”

MOTORING

Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

GADGETS AND GAMING WITH DANIEL RILEY

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BlizzCon Promises To Be Hotter Than Ever Before

B

lizzCon, Blizzard Entetainment’s two day gaming convention returns to Anaheim California from November 3rd to the 4th.

It is quite a way to go, especially if you’re not already in the USA, so Blizzard have expanded the Virtual Ticket offerings massively over previous years.

For the first time ever, all stages at BlizzCon will have a live feed, as well as special events involving streamers, community creators and voice actors, and an all-access channel.

Anyone who wants to enjoy BlizzCon from the comfort of

their own home can purchase a Virtual Ticket now through the Blizzard Shop.

“BlizzCon is a celebration for our entire community, including those joining us from their homes around the world. With that in mind, we’ve updated this year’s Virtual Ticket experience to cover even more of the show—including expanding our live coverage to all the stages,” said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. “We’re excited to bring people closer to BlizzCon than ever before, and we can’t wait for everyone at home and attending in person to join us.”

The new BlizzCon All-Access channel will serve as the official Virtual Ticket tour guide all weekend as hosts take viewers around the show floor, behind the scenes, and deeper into the games through exclusive interviews.

Whether you’re joining BlizzCon® in person or online, There is an epic finale—Muse is coming to BlizzCon 2017! The Grammy Award–winning band

will close out the 11th BlizzCon on Saturday, November 4, delivering a stage-shattering conclusion to Blizzard’s two-day community celebration for everyone attending in person and joining from home with the BlizzCon Virtual Ticket.

Widely renowned as one of the best live acts in the world, Muse—Matt Bellamy, Dominic Howard, and Chris Wolstenholme—have won numerous music awards, including two Grammy Awards, an American Music Award, five MTV Europe Music Awards, two Brit Awards, six NME Awards, and six Q Awards.

B

attery life on smartphones is always a point of contention and it’s inevitable that the battery will decrease as time goes by.

Leading smartphone retailer Mobiles.co.uk have come up with a few options to keep you juiced up.

Andrew Cartledge, Mobile Expert at Mobiles.co.uk, said: “Even now, it’s tough to go any longer than a day without needing to charge your battery.

“Although technology is getting more advanced, making the most of your battery life is still somewhat dependant on user management.

“The key to the most effective battery life is to look after your device – which can be harder said than done when you don’t always

The No Juice Diet know what’s draining the juice.”

It’s getting hot in here

Just as when we get too hot we become tired, so does your smartphone. When your smartphone is left in a place where the sun is shining on it, or in a hot car, it heats up which can damage the battery.

Dim for the win

Our eyes are extremely intelligent, and can adjust to different light and brightness, which we should use to our advantage - especially since maximum brightness on your smartphone is one of a battery’s biggest daily drainers.

By turning the brightness down (or opting for the recommended ‘power saving’ level) it’ll help take some of the glare off your eyes, and you will also notice your battery will last much longer.

Call timeout

It happens to us all - we’ve been on our phone, thought we locked the screen, and realised several minutes later that the screen never locked.

In fact, you’ve left a lengthy and confusing voicemail to your mum.

Not only do you have to explain your voicemail, but your battery power has also decreased.

To save from this happening again, enable the ‘screen timeout’ option on your smartphone.

Important notifications only

This tip not only helps your battery life, but also your productivity.

Opt to only receive notifications from apps that are of absolute importance, and leave the rest for when you have some down time to ‘drop in’ for the latest updates.

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017 - Page 29

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From Forced Marriage to Ms. Galaxy Rubie Marie Shares Her Story of Empowerment

A

t 15 she was forced to marry a complete stranger twice her age, but today she has been crowned as one of the most beautiful women in the world and is poised for film stardom.

Rubie-Marie’s life story to date is the stuff of Hollywood-proportions itself.

She has won beauty pageants – both here in the UK and abroad – which has led her to being scouted by internationally renowned companies in LA, in the United States. “It was something I had to do,” she said.

“Having gone through so much abuse – physically and psychologically – friends of mine said I was so beautiful I had to use it for the positive.

I thought that this would be an ideal ‘vehicle’ for me; to turn my life around and be in a position to do my best and make sure other women do not go through what I did.”

It’s a far cry from her early days living in her place of birth – Swansea, in Wales.

“As a schoolgirl, I was forced into marrying a man in Bangladesh, by my father. The man was at least twice my age and I had never seen before – in fact the first time I met him was on the day of the wedding.

I was 15 years old and in school and enjoying time with my friends,” she recalled. “I was just learning about life and marriage was the last thing on my mind.”

So young and far from informed, she had to endure a period of physical and mental torcher from who turned out to be an ogre of a ‘man’ whose soul

intention was to treat her as a slave- in every aspect Once back in the UK and already forcibly made pregnant (at 16) – giving birth to a baby girl, with whom she bravely upped and ran away from home to start a new life in the Midlands and a new partner.

But, after 5 violence-filled years and a second child, a boy, she fled again.

With no support, and no life skills to fall back on, she had an ‘epiphany’ moment which so ab massive change in her.

Now a mother of two she took it upon herself to sit her previously missed GCSE exams.

Self-esteem and self-confidence gained, she, after being pushed by her friends, began entering beauty pageants; winning Ms Galaxy UK 2017 and then going on the books of the Los Angeles-based Model Mayhem, the number one casting website for professional models, photographers, makeup artists, stylists, designers and digital artists: “You here so much of the stereotype when it comes to modelling,” she said, “but they wanted mothers and I was cool with that.”

She raised her own funds to go to the Philippines – the ‘capital’ to develop and take-part in major events over there.

Her daughter was born with severe learning difficulties, which was a catalyst for her to dedicate her life to raising awareness situations like that (especially mental health) worldwide and also works for Karma Nirvana an award-winning Human Rights charity supporting victims of honour-based abuse and forced marriage.

“Now that I have turning my negatives into positives, I’m in a position to tell my story so that girls who relate to it can tell their story.”

Now 34, and in a stable, happy relationship, Rubie-Marie stands proud as she is revered throughout the world, for her beauty – both outside and in.

And, as part of her life-affirmance, you can read her experience in ‘Beyond The Scars: Real Life Accounts Of Women Who Overcame Adversity’ you will be inspired to take back ownership of your life by going on a journey with remarkable women who were defiant in conquering harsh life challenges including domestic violence, prejudice, illness, suicide attempts and abuse.

Rubie-Marie’s life.

That’s Rubie-Marie; Internationally-crowned beauty queen, mother, mentor and world-wide charity champion.

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2017

CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT

www.streetcredmagazine.com on the violin, someone banging on the table like it’s a drum, singing loud and out of tune… just having a ball. Camara is emotional…

Who is Reggae Fraternity UK?

Lorna Sutara Gayle

Welcome to my column where I feature some of the most Welcome to my column where Iand feature some of the most special Charities, Organisations People I have come across. special Charities, Organisations andbeing People I have come across.

Be a part of my journey and enjoy inspired...

Be a part of my journey and enjoy being inspired...

I

n this months’ Spotlight, I would like to introduce you to a woman I met this summer.

A dynamic, charismatic and passionate woman who recently starred as Miss Pross in Tales Of Two Cities at Regents Park Open Air Theatre – meet singer, songwriter, actress and award-winner Lorna Sutara Gayle.

In between her auditions and performances, I managed to interview Lorna via Skype. Don’t you just love technology…

I applied to study Performing Arts aged 35, auditioned and was accepted!

I mentioned special teachers earlier, I met another one at college - Mark took a liking to me and honed in on my talent. I graduated with 16 distinctions.

This teacher urged me to apply for Drama School. I had no idea about the world of Drama School. I ended up applying for five different schools.

Eventually I got in to Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art! I graduated at 40. Life truly does begin at 40.

Where were you born and raised?

Born and raised in Brixton in London – I’m a born Brixtonian. Still living in South London. It’s a little saddening when you see memories that you had are no longer there.

Memories of going to Brixton market with your mum and her chatting with everyone you come across – waiting ages for her to finish her conversations… the area has changed a lot - the community feel has died out and people are ‘fragmented’ especially since Brixton became gentrified.

It’s time to name drop… what artists have you worked with?

Madness, Sade, Maxi Priest, Gill Scott-Heron, Boy George, Junior Giscombe, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, John Holt, Frankie Paul, Beenie Man, Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Supercat, Ninja Man, Nicodemus, Shaggy – so many people.

What are some of your favourite performances to date?

How did you do in school?

In her best cockney accent – “Well I was a bit of an old rebel you see.”

We both laugh. Growing up on Brixton streets, I was surrounded by colourful people, colourful life, vibrancy and creativity and that’s what I was interested in – not school necessarily. I didn’t enjoy school.

I was a class clown and eventually I was thrown out of school.

I was placed in different learning facilities and didn’t get on well with the systematic environment but having said that, I loved English and I excelled in writing and poetry and anything creative.

There was always one special teacher that saw the creativity in me and saw that I was at my happiest in these moments.

How did you get into music, especially with the British Reggae genre of Lovers Rock music?

I attended a number of drama clubs, taking part in productions at youth clubs.

I started from an early age going to blues parties, that was a life-changer for me – feeling free with reggae music and watching the guys on the sound system doing their toasting and rapping. It was amazing.

I started writing lyrics and although it took a while for the guys to take me serious – I began chanting on the mic at these parties and raves.

The reactions were great. I found my niche and haven at 14 years old.

Did your mum know you were going to these parties at 14?

No! My mum didn’t know! My mum was a very strict Seventh-day Adventist. Abiding by the rules from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, there wasn’t much you could do.

My mum was a powerful and mighty strong Jamaican woman who worked 3 jobs yet still looked after 8 of us by herself, she was a beautiful woman who installed love in us all.

Sadly she passed away a few years ago.

When did you start releasing your original music?

I featured on an album recorded at my old Youth Centre. It was a live album with Smiley Culture, Saxon and Tippa Irie. Sir Lloyd contacted The Mad Professor, who was mixing the album and expressed that he wanted to record with me.

I then recorded, “Three Weeks Gone And My Giro Nuh Come”.

I was frustrated. Employment was low at the time, I couldn’t get a job, signing on and I was waiting 3 weeks for my giro to come.

3 million were unemployed in the UK. The song blew up! At first it was a joke but it seems like a lot of people were going through the same thing – next minute I was on LBC and touring Europe!

Have you ever had any other jobs?

I‘ve had loads of jobs - from a chambermaid to flipping burgers, I’ve done it all! My most favourite job is teaching ‘Performing Arts’ to young people. I’ve also worked in prisons and youth offending groups teaching Shakespeare!

How did you get into acting?

I went to live in America for 6 years doing music. When I came back to England, my son was about to start secondary school and I wanted to be a better role model for him. I was singing and felt like I was going around in circles.

I knew there was something more out there for me. My friend was doing a course at Lewisham College and said to me, “why don’t you do acting, they have courses at my college!” as soon as she said it, it actually made sense.

There are too many to mention but I will tell you one that sticks out in my mind. A few weeks ago, I performed at a fundraiser for Grenfell Tower survivors.

It was led by a beautiful survivor named Mya. This was an event for the survivors and by the survivors. I can’t remember going into a room or a space and feeling that much emotion, power and love - for people that have gone through so much.

Some of the survivors stood on stage and gave their testimonies, the children on stage performing too.

I sang my song “Gotta Find A Way” and it brought me back to when I wrote it following the Brixton riots in 1985.

There was so much racism, brutality and unfairness and I saw it all first hand. I remembered the feelings

that I had when writing this song.

It wasn’t till I did this event for the Grenfell Survivors, I felt what I hadn’t – for so long.

At that moment, we all had a ‘knowing’ that there is hope and that everything is going to be alright.

Love is a powerful thing.

Have you got any performance events coming up?

I have just finished Guys and Dolls the Musical – I performed with Rebel Wilson (well known for her role in Pitch Perfect) so that was a good laugh.

I will also be in a Musical which will be out in March 2018 – I don’t want to say anything just yet... keep an eye out.

I have been commissioned by the Hackney Showroom to write my ‘One Woman’ play. It is my story - I bare it all. It’s the backdrop of growing up in Brixton.

It’s one woman’s journey, always searching for unconditional love and realising you are searching in some ridiculous places and eventually finding unconditional love…

Can you name your top 3 favourite songs?

Rick James and Teena Marie - Fire and Desire, Dennis Brown – No Man Is an Island, Al Green - For The Good Times.

What would be your dream gig?

Playing with all 8 siblings and my mum again. One on the piano, one

RFUK was set up by a number of Reggae artists and industry professionals - including myself - aiming to support up and coming Reggae artists in the UK. I have met many of these artists who feel discouraged because there is no real pathway created for them, they create their music and they don’t know what is next – because there is no real Reggae industry at the moment.

There was an industry in the 70s and 80s but now we would really like to see Reggae music back and big on the map in the UK. There is an event coming up called “Legacy” on Sunday 26th November in London. It is going to be a special one.

Do you have any words of advice or a special message for up and coming performers?

Do what you love, from your heart.

If you want to do what you love as a business, treat it like one and make sure you own your work. I would also recommend having a stable job on the side.

Is there anybody you would like to thank?

All the people that believed in me, all the teachers that took the time to listen to me and not see me as a problem child.

I would urge any parents who have creative children, to push, nurture and support them. If you don’t utilise your creativity, it can kill you inside.

I would also like to thank my brother Mooji, for saving my life.

I think it is safe to say we had a good laugh during this interview, I love the ‘realness’ that Lorna brings.

Thank you Lorna Sutara Gayle.

To my readers - look out for Lorna’s One Woman play where she will be “bearing it all”, through creative performance.

Twitter: @lornageeuk Facebook: Lorna Gayle aka Sutara Ji Instagram: @LornaGayle

Get in Touch with Camara camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com www.camaraofficial.com www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)