Street Cred Magazine - July 2023

CONTINUE THEIR 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

EDITORS NOTE

Yes Street Credders, how are you all!

Have to say 2023 is looking amazing for the world of entertainment as the big old skool artists are coming over to UK and of course we are well in to get the exclusives.

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

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

This is the lifestyle

Always cutting edge and representing the street culture positively!

Mark Dwayne

The Halls Wolverhampton burst back into life as Britpop legends Blur marked the official reopening of the iconic venue with a sellout show.

Thousands of music fans revelled in the sunshine in the new-look space outside The Halls - where major investment by City of Wolverhampton Council has improved the public realm.

They then poured through the doors to take in the multi-million-pound refurbishment completed by the Council and new venue operators, AEG Presents, that will ensure the Grade II-listed halls remain part of the city’s fabric for generations to come.

It kick-starts an Opening Season of shows that will grace the new 3,404-capacity ‘The Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton’ and 1,289-capacity ‘The Wulfrun at The Halls Wolverhampton’.

Following extensive and critical construction work undertaken by the Council, AEG

Presents led on internal renovations to the front of house bars, kitchen, sound and lights systems, creating a venue that offers both the very best facilities, as well as first-rate acoustics and musical line-ups.

Overall, visitors will continue to enjoy more comfortable seats, a greater number of bars and enhanced space to socialise, expanded and revamped toilet facilities, lift access for those viewing from the new balcony level, better access arrangements for disabled visitors (including enhanced wheelchair access), a greater number of accessible viewing points and improved room temperatures through the installation of a new air handling system.

The iconic venue will host leading music and entertainment performers, as well as business events and conferences.

It will attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city, boosting the local economy by £10million annually. Plans will also benefit local businesses, as well as create new employment

Iconic venue bursts back to life as Blur rock The Halls

opportunities, raising the city’s national and international profile.

City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Economy, Councillor Stephen Simkins, said: “It was privilege to be at the official reopening concert on Friday and what an amazing night it was.

“To see The Halls open again

and packed to the rafters with an incredible atmosphere was a very special moment for everyone who’s been involved in the transformation of this incredible venue.” Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the council’s Cabinet Member for Visitor City, added: “These are such exciting times, and the reopening of The Halls is just the start.

“As we saw when Blur

opened The Halls, people will flock to Wolverhampton to enjoy the best live entertainment available. It will help reinvigorate the city centre, not only creating jobs and boosting businesses and the local economy but making Wolverhampton an attractive visitor destination for people across the region and country, as well as our residents.”

Marley’s Retrospective In His Latest Single

INTERNATIONALLY re-

nowned musician Stephen Marley has recently released his latest single ‘Old Soul,’ alongside the publishing of a new lyric video for the same song, which heavily features Marley’s personal history alongside the history of Jamaica.

The video includes a collection of the singer’s personal history with old family photos and vintage album covers and is presented in an interesting collage-style animation. The song is about Marley’s growth, his childhood, and it serves as a tribute to all of those who made it possible. In this, a coming-of-age track, Marley describes how he saw himself as an old soul at heart, whilst living in the body of a 9-year-old.

The single - co-produced by Jamaican pop star Omi - was released alongside the singer’s 51st birthday, with Marley saying on the collaboration: “I had to change up the years to place my life in it… but really, Omi gave me the first inspiration.”

Before the pandemic, Marley toured with his band frequently, constantly honing their abilities and performing a large catalogue of music. During the pandemic, he created a new studio on a remote family Floridian farm. During a jam session at the makeshift studio, “Old Soul” was recorded.

cclaimed Birmingham-born singer and pianist Reuben James today releases the title track from his debut album Champagne Kisses.

Released on his very own Rufio Records on Friday June 23rd, the album features a host of some of James’s most talented friends and collaborators including Roy Ayers, Braxton Cook, Joel Culpepper, Conor Albert, Ric Wilson, Carrtoons and Vula amongst others.

James has previously worked with a rollcall of superstar names including the likes of Stormzy, Sam Smith and Disclosure and it’s these collaborations, alongside influences from the likes of D’Angelo, Erykah Badu and Robert Glasper, that have led to him developing a smooth, slick sound and style of his own.

James is set to sashay further into the mainstream with brand new track Champagne Kisses, which showcases his inimitable mix of jazz-rooted soul and R&B and follows the release of the albums first two singles – Means The World and Love Stoned.

Reuben says: “Here’s my new offering ‘Champagne Kisses’ featuring the incredible Joel Culpepper and Ric Wilson - this is the title track to my debut album and definitely one of my all-time favourites… this jam is one for the summer with its up-tempo, funky, boogie vibes.

Produced by my brother CARRTOONS, and fleshed out with rich instrumentation, I was trying to explore more deep groove vibes so that I could up the energy during my live show and give me the chance to bust some dance moves!”

Releasing his music on his own record label is something that James has sustained and championed the entirety of his career. Allowing him to control every aspect of his music and legacy, he now oversees a back catalogue that has amassed in excess of 50 million plays across all platforms.

JUly Gig Listings

REUBEN JAMES RELEASES HIS BRAND NEW SINGLE ‘CHAMPAGNE KISSES’

Latest Adidas And Wales Bonner Sneaker Collab Inspired By Jamaican Landscapes

WALES

BONNER and Adidas

Originals have another collaborative collection on the way, which focuses on the Caribbean as the British designer explores the Trefoil’s lasting presence within Jamaican culture.

According to the British Jamaican designer, the latest unisex collection for spring ’23 collection, which is called “Land of Wood and Water,” reimagines vintage silhouettes through elevated material compositions and new colour palettes.

Drawing on the Caribbean nation’s landscape and environment, the collection features a matching light-teal nylon tracksuit, signature tracksuit in elevated knit construction, striking silver anorak with matching shorts, and the introduction of a Jamaican icon in the form of a Harrington jacket and flared trouser set. Other highlights include a towelling top and shorts set, knitted geometric patten roll neck, knitted sweater vest, neutral sweater sweatpant set, and two vibrant short-sleeve cotton T-shirts.

TOWN

12 The Beat featuring Dave Wakeling with Bow Wow Wow feat. Annabella Lwin

As for the footwear offering, Bonner reimagines two archival Adidas classics. This season, the WB Samba returns in two distinct makeups: one in a neutral colour palette with a nubuck upper and leather stripes, the other coming replete with a silver leather upper and crochet stripes. In addition, the WB SL72 Knit sees the British designer re-contextualize the retro Adidas runner with a knitted upper and arrives in two distinct colourways which pay homage to Jamaican culture.

The duo’s latest collection is brought to life this season in a new campaign captured by photography and directorial duo Jalan and Jibril Durimel. Styled by Tom Guinness, the campaign mixes traditional portraiture with dreamlike documentary imagery, highlighting the intersection of place and cultural identity.

This isn’t the first time Bonner has referenced her Jamaican heritage in her collaboration with Adidas. The pair’s spring ’21 “Essence” collection was inspired by the early 1980s era of reggae when dancehall music became a staple in Jamaica.

This collection is a follow-up to their first collab, which was previewed at Bonner’s fall 2020 show at London Fashion Week.

l KISS descend on Resorts World Arena on June 05

Edward Enninful Steps Down As British Vogue Editor

British Vogue editor-in-chief

Edward Enninful will be stepping down from his role after six years of breaking boundaries at the top fashion magazine. The 51-yearold will remain as an editorial advisor to the UK title but move into a newly-created job next year aimed at growing the brand globally.

Enninful’s new portfolio as Vogue's global creative and cultural advisor will also allow him to take on external projects where he will be involved with the recruitment search for his successor. The Ghanaian-British creative is the first Black man to hold the top job at the British fashion magazine.

In an interview last year about his favourite Vogue covers, Enninful said the inspiration behind his first one in December 2017 featuring mixed race model Adwoa Aboah was aimed at resetting the image of modern Britain. "It was important to create a cover that represented the Britain of today, a multicultural society where everyone was welcome - where my family was welcome," he said.

HEY DUGGEE TO PLAY THE BELGRADE THIS SUMMER

Hey Duggee, based on the smash hit CBeebies series, will come to Coventry over the summer, playing at the Belgrade from 3-6 August, with a press performance on Thursday 3 August at 1pm.

Duggee, the Squirrels and some of their friends star in the musical play Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show – named Best Family Show at the 2023 Olivier Awards – which is packed with non-stop fun, laughs, music, singing and dancing.

This is the first-ever stage adaptation of the hugely popular CBeebies series, which brings Duggee and friends to life through extraordinary puppetry and storytelling, with families able to see their TV heroes live on stage.

Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show has been adapted for the stage by Vikki Stone (#zoologicalsociety – Royal And Derngate, Romeo And Duet – ITV) and Matthew Xia (The Wiz – Hope Mill Theatre, artistic director Actors Touring Company). Matthew also directs the production and Vikki is musical supervisor and arranger.

Matthew said: “My daughter was born in 2014, the same year Hey Duggee started, so we’ve really grown up with the TV series, and it’s been an absolute treat to create this new stage show.

“Without any spoilers, the Squirrels have never been to a show before, and they set out to learn about all the things that go into making a show and earn the relevant badges, with some of our favourite Hey Duggee characters helping them along the way. And the children and families in the audience are very much part of the Squirrel gang with some important jobs to do!”

Vikki added: “Hey Duggee is such a special TV series in the realm of co-viewing, where adults are watching it with their

children, not just putting it on to entertain them while they’re doing something else. And it is brilliant to see families come together in theatres on the tour to experience that same magic live on stage – and in many cases it’s the children’s first theatre experience.”

Since bursting onto TV screens in 2014, the BBC Studios and Studio AKA creation has won seven BAFTAs and is an international Emmy award-winning hit. Hey Duggee was the most streamed children’s show on

Jason Derulo Heats Up The Summer With “Slow Low”

MULTIPLATINUM global superstar Jason Derulo has shared his latest summer smash, “Slow Low”, available now via Atlantic Records at all DSPs and streaming services.

BBC iPlayer in 2022 for the third year in a row and is popular among both children and parents; with fans both young and old, up and down the country now able to join the much-loved character on tour.

Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show is presented by award-winning theatre producer Kenny Wax and theatre and live entertainment promoters Cuffe and Taylor in association with Live Nation.

Written by Jason Derulo and Shawn Charles, produced by Pink Slip (One OK Rock, Royal & The Serpent), and Jackson Morgan (Machine Gun Kelly, Sam Fischer), The change of tempo in “Slow Low” is a never-been-done-before creative choice that is sure to get everyone’s attention. Jason is no stranger to being a trendsetter and being first.

Written by Jason Deruloand Shawn Charles and produced by Pink Slip, the sultry track interpolates Dido’s 1999 top 3 hit single, “Thank You,” famously sampled in Eminem’s classic “Stan.”

Food & Fine Dining

Naksha Recipe Kits has taken its first stride into the UK by securing stardust listings of its delicious and beautifully designed recipe kits at Whole Foods Market, Harrods and John Lewis.

Naksha's UK-made range include both savoury and sweet (baking) dishes, encouraging users to discover and cook off-thebeaten-track cuisines in their own kitchens.

First launched by Nisha Ramisetty and her husband Sam Williams in Dubai in 2020, Naksha quickly gained traction by winning the prestigious Spinneys and Waitrose Local Business Incubator and has been listed in Spinneys and Waitrose stores in the UAE ever since.

Naksha's arrival in the UK in June 2023 is shaking up the cooking experience of UK homechefs by redefining store-bought, shelf-stable recipe kits.

With whole, small-batch ingredients, authentic local recipes, and original hand-drawn artwork by emerging artists, Naksha's kits prove that simplicity and convenience are compatible with premium look-and-feel and gastronomic wow-factor. Kits suit weekdays, special occasions and gifting.

According to co-founder Nisha Ramisetty, Naksha is solving the problems of cooking inspiration and accessibility. “Many people want to cook more often but struggle to keep their menu varied”, she says.

“At the same time, many tempting cuisines are perceived to be too complex, expensive or wasteful to cook at home.

"Naksha tackles this by curating recipes from amazing places and giving customers the specialist ingredients needed to cook them without waste or fuss. UK consumers are hungry to cook food with engaging origin stories, and we are feeding that appetite.”

Arranged into regional collections, Naksha's recipe kits give customers an immersive cooking experience encompassing great flavours, thoughtful storytelling, stunning packaging, and simple cooking methodology.

The recipe kits focus on cuisines with strong appeal but limited visibility, looking beyond the predictable world of Mexican, Thai and Indian.

Naksha's kits instead bring to life dishes from countries including Cuba (Ropa Vieja), Singapore (Lemak Cili Padi), Turkey ((Dark chocolate fondant with Turkish coffee), Jamaica (Curried Goat) and Lebanon (Milk chocolate blondies with Lebanese tahini); meeting demand for international food which - according to a recent Waitrose & Partners report – is growing rapidly in the UK.

They are vegan-friendly as they don't include perishable ingredients. Instead, the shelf-stable products include easy recipe cards and specialist ingredients such as spice blends, herbs, grains, noo-

NAKSHA RECIPE KITS LAUNCH IN THE UK

GTA Launches Culinary Partnership With James

Beard Award-Winning Chef Alexander Smalls

KNOWN AS the Spice Isle of the Caribbean, the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched a culinary partnership with renowned Chef Alexander Smalls to raise its profile as a leading culinary destination.

The partnership will involve a Master Class with local chefs, recipe development showcasing Grenada’s spices and cacao, a Tastemaker event featuring celebrity and influential chefs, a Fireside Chat with Grenada’s leaders in food security, agriculture and sustainability, and the Spice Replanting Program.

Alexander Smalls, both a Grammy and Tony award-winning opera singer, is a James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, author, and culinary activist.

He is the visionary of the restaurants, The Cecil, which won Esquire magazine best new restaurant in America, New York City’s first Afro-Asian-American

Brasserie and its sister jazz club, Minton’s, the birthplace of BeBop in Harlem.

He is the founder and curator of Alkebulan, the first African Dining hall in the world opened in Dubai in 2021, visited by over 24 million people. There are plans to open future Alkebulan concepts in London and Harlem, New York coming soon.

Chef Alexander Smalls commented, “I’m excited because the Spice Island concept is near and dear to the work that I do. I look forward to bringing a congress of chefs to explore the island and to create partnerships on the ground with local vendors and restaurateurs.

"We’ll also be creating a series of engaging and interactive video content that will excite the locals, as well as the global community that should know and celebrate Grenada as we do.”

Dom Pérignon, Liquid Icons And The Gérard Basset Foundation Announce The New Dom Pérignon Golden Vines MW Scholarship

DOM PÉRIGNON, the renowned Champagne House, announced today that it is partnering with Liquid Icons (the fine wine research and content production company founded by the late, great Gérard Basset OBE MW MS and his friend Lewis Chester DipWSET) and the Gérard Basset Foundation to launch a new Dom Pérignon Golden Vines MW Scholarship.

dles, sauces and other extras. The fresh items (i.e., veg and protein) that a customer needs to complete the dish are easily obtainable as part of a normal weekly shop, maximising choice and flexibility.

Customers aren't locked into costly commitments - yet, thanks to Naksha's diverse range, they can access a multitude of flavours. Most of Naksha's recipe kits are also gluten free and contain or-

ganic ingredients. Naksha is based between London and Brighton and has manufacturing facilities in Derbyshire.

The Dom Pérignon Golden Vines MW Scholarship Winner will undertake an intensive, paid training program for 4 weeks at Dom Pérignon, in which time they will work closely with the winemaking team, attaining skills and knowledge which will aid them both with the MW studies and with their future career progression. The Scholarship will fund the winner to undertake the MW Certification.

The Dom Pérignon Golden Vines MW Scholarship is open

to applicants from marginalised communities. Scholars may be situated anywhere in the world but must be willing and able to travel to France for the duration of their internship. The Judging Panel for the Scholarship will consist of Vincent Chaperon, Chef de Cave of Dom Pérignon, and Romané Basset, Co-Founding Trustee of the Gérard Basset Foundation.

Vincent Chaperon commented on the launch of the new Dom Pérignon Golden Vines MW Scholarship: "We will be delighted to welcome the eventual winner of the Scholarship at Dom Pérignon."

l On a recent evening in New York City, the Grenada Tourism Authority hosted an intimate dinner party at the home of Chef Alexander Smalls (right) to introduce a new culinary partnership.

MOTORS

ALL-NEW AEHRA SEDAN BRINGS SUPERCAR LEVELS OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY TO THE PASSENGER CAR SECTOR

AEHRA, the new global ultra-premium electric automotive brand, has today revealed the exterior design of its second ground-breaking model, a sinuously styled Sedan.

Presented to the international media at the Milano Monza Motor Show today, the AEHRA Sedan follows swiftly on from the brand’s first model, an SUV presented late last year.

Based on the same highly flexible ultra-advanced EV plat-

form as the AEHRA SUV, the AEHRA Sedan was conceived in tandem with its sibling without compromise. And while the new model shares the same design language and body surface treatment as the SUV, it is quite different in character thanks to unique graphic signatures at the front and the rear of the car.

A shape inspired by centuries of Italian design and purity of expression

AEHRA’s soft, simple, uncomplicated design language is expressed in the new Sedan to

stunning effect. From the side, the car features just one uninterrupted fluid line.

The brand’s design team resolutely shunned the need to create numerous edges within the body and, instead, amplified the new model’s character through the use of reflection, with the body divided by light and shadow.

The brand has used a similar ‘division’ approach to express other elements of the Sedan’s character, and this approach is particularly evident at the front of the vehicle.

Here, technical elements, such as the active aerodynamic and cooling elements, are amalgamated in the lower section of the car. Combined with a bespoke battery solution developed in partnership with Miba Battery Systems, the AEHRA Sedan and SUV are designed and engineered to deliver optimum efficiency and target an 800km driving range.

By contrast to the more technical lower section, the top portion of the car represents a much cleaner, purer shape, and one

that flows elegantly all the way from the hood to the windscreen and up and over the roofline.

The crafting of this very fluid shape drew inspiration in part from the aeronautic sector, and it exudes a sheer sense of the AEHRA Sedan gliding effortlessly through the air with great efficiency, even when it is parked and not moving.

“With the AEHRA Sedan, we have had the boldness to go even further and fully exploit the exceptional design freedom born out of our founder Hazim

Nada’s philosophy and vision, and AEHRA’s ground-breaking use of only the most advanced technologies that the global automotive and aeronautic industries have to offer,” explains Filippo Perini, AEHRA Head of Design.

“The design of the AEHRA Sedan is inspired by numerous sources. In Italy, it is often said we exist in a living museum. The influence of art and architecture is all around us, and beauty is all around us. A beauty that stems from purity of expression and aesthetic functionality.”

“For centuries, Italian architects, artists and designers have been inspired by the pursuit of the perfection of proportion. That passion and discipline are evident in every line and detail of the AEHRA Sedan. Adhering to AEHRA’s doctrine that form must always follow function; the Sedan is the anthesis to baroque design culture.

Devoid of unnecessary adornments, yet alive with emotion, the AEHRA Sedan represents a new standard of natural beauty for zero-emission ultra-premium mobility.”

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW BMW M2

The new BMW M2 builds on its formidable predecessor’s strengths to deliver an even greater driving experience, taking the formula of a classic high-performance sports car and reproducing it in highly concentrated form with cutting-edge technology.

The new BMW M2 encapsulates the pure joy of driving: its compact dimensions, a six-cylinder in-line engine, a manual gearbox option, rear-wheel drive and an advanced control/ operating concept – allowing the driver to adjust the vehicle setup as desired – are all central to its appeal. Surefooted agility on demand

and handling that remains easily controllable even as the driver explores the coupé’s limits are at its core. The distinct character profile of the new BMW M2 is reflected in a powerful design that conveys its segment-leading power, even before it turns a wheel.

With a maximum output of 460hp – 90hp more than the original BMW M2 – and exhilarating driving dynamics that have been honed during in-depth testing on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit and other race tracks, the new BMW M2 represents another highlight in the model offensive celebrating the 50-year anniversary of BMW M GmbH.

The two-door machine embodies an unadulterated racing passion that owners can enjoy day in, day out, along with a comprehensive specification ensuring it is as comfortable tackling the city as it is the most demanding race circuits.

The advances over the first-generation BMW M2, which became the largest-selling model in the BMW M lineup with almost 60,000 examples sold worldwide, are evident not just from the car’s sharper performance but also its far more extensive standard specification.

A focused selection of options is available for enhancing driving comfort or adding even more visual excitement to both

the exterior and interior.

A standout optional extra is the bespoke M Race Track Package that is designed to maximise the performance experience, its benefits including raising the electronically limited top speed of 155mph to 177mph.

The new BMW M2 is built alongside the new BMW 2 Series Coupé at the BMW Group’s San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico, with prices in the UK starting from £64,890 OTR.

Advanced twin-turbo, high-revving 3.0-litre engine develops 460hp

The powertrain technology in the new BMW M2 brings elite performance to the premium compact segment. It is the only

model in its segment to be offered with a six-cylinder in-line engine.

Developing a maximum 460hp from its advanced engine, the new BMW M2 outguns the base unit used by the original BMW M2 by 90hp.

Indeed, its output is even 10hp higher than that of the special-edition BMW M2 CS from the previous model generation.

The 3.0-litre unit differs only in a small number of details from the engine employed in the BMW M3/BMW M4 models.

The straight-six engine combines the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology with the high-revving characteristics of an M car.

Peak torque of 550Nm is produced between 2,650 and 5,870rpm and maximum output arrives at 6,250rpm. The engine revs to a maximum 7,200rpm.

The design principle behind the engine and its technical details reflects the vast motorsport experience of BMW M GmbH.

A rigid crankcase, friction-optimised cylinder bores, a crankshaft drive with high torsional rigidity and a forged crankshaft with lightweight design enhance the engine’s efficiency, power development and high-revving nature.

The core of the cylinder head is 3D printed, enabling a weight reduction and optimised coolant duct routing.

RINA And Aprilia Racing Start Technical Partnership

RINA, a multinational inspection, certification, and engineering consulting company, and Aprilia Racing, one of the most successful racing teams of all time, have signed a two-year sponsorship and technical partnership to drive the development of cutting-edge technologies in elite-level motorcycle sport.

RINA will offer Aprilia Racing its diverse engineering expertise acquired over more than 160 years in various fields where performance is the key factor for excellence, including aerospace, automotive, advanced material studies, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

The collaboration between two esteemed Italian technological leaders will apply to all aspects of a prototype race design. Leveraging RINA's multidisciplinary skills and cutting-edge technology transfer methods, Aprilia Racing will solidify its leadership and pioneering role, introducing ground-breaking solutions to the track and pushing the boundaries of motorsport and beyond.

BIGGEST EVER MOTORING EVENT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE DRIVES RECORD ATTENDANCE

The Big Event, hosted by the Motability Scheme, saw its biggest ever attendance with a record-breaking turnout of more than 11,600 visitors attending the two-day event at The NEC in Birmingham.

The Big Event took place on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 May 2023 and offered the chance for disabled people and their families, friends and carers to find out everything they need to know about the Motability Scheme.

With over 150 vehicles on display, visitors could explore the latest range of cars, take a test drive and have their questions answered by Scheme experts.

For the second year running, anyone unable to attend the event in person could tune in online to ‘The Big Event Streamed Live’.

There were more than 7,000 live views of the digital content including expert Speaker Sessions – with guest appearances from former Royal Marine and Invictus Games athlete, Mark Ormrod, and British Wheelchair Basketball’s Lee Manning – and exclusive Q&As and videos. All of the online content is available to watch, on demand, for the rest of the summer at motabilityonebigday.co.uk/ the-big-event-birmingham/watchon-demand/

Brand new for 2023 at The Big Event, the Innovation Zone also showcased future technology for cars, powered wheelchairs and scooters. The Motability Operations Innovation Team were on hand to answer questions, showcase their latest initiatives, and sign-up customers for future innovation and product pilots.

Alison Beasley, The Big Event manager at Motability Operations, said: “This is the second year running that we’ve had record attendance at The Big Event and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The whole ethos of the event is to offer an accessible and inclusive day out for all ages to enjoy while they gather all the information they might need about the Scheme, so to see the popularity continue to grow is exciting.

“We introduced ‘The Big Event Streamed Live’ last year so that people can join us online if they can’t make it to Birmingham, and to see the numbers of people joining us digitally almost double in its second year is fantastic. We’re already starting to think about how we can increase the online experience for future years too."

The Big Event was the first in the Motability Scheme’s series of summer events, which are free to attend, with plenty of free parking available. The remaining 2023 One Big Day programme line-up includes:

• One Big Day, Exeter –Westpoint, Saturday 22 July

• One Big Day, Harrogate – Yorkshire Event Centre, Saturday 12 August

• The Big Event, Edinburgh – Royal Highland Centre, Friday 15 and Saturday 16 September

Back In The Hot Seat Once Again

FORMULA 1 legends Mika

Häkkinen and David Coulthard teamed up with the reigning WRC Driver’s Champion Kalle Rovanperä in the first episode of Unibet's brand new video series RIDE. Former F1 drivers got the opportunity to experience the thrill of speed in a WRC rally car when they sat on the co-driver seat of Rovanperä while he was testing for this weekend’s Rally Sardegna. Unibet's new video series RIDE brings together three of motorsport's major names – Mika Häkkinen, David Coulthard and Kalle Rovanperä – for the first time ever.

The trio's first encounter can in no way be described as ordinary, as the two former F1 drivers got to experience the thrill of speed

in the place of Kalle Rovanperä's co-driver Jonne Halttunen. The Toyota Gazoo Racing duo Rovanperä–Halttunen were in Italy preparing for the WRC Rally Sardegna that takes place this weekend.

The experience could be described as surprising. Häkkinen and Coulthard, both experienced in extreme speeds, seemed to find it difficult to whole-heartedly enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard

DOMINICA’S JAZZ ‘N CREOLE DELIGHTS MUSIC LOVERS IN ITS 12TH EDITION

Rapper, actor, television producer and businessman, 50 Cent, will be embarking on a global tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his game-changing debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin’. plans to celebrate bringing along guests Busta Rhymes and Jeremih to audiences.

Fans can expect dozens of fan-favourite and chart-topping hits along with select tracks that have not been performed live in decades. Plus, the tour will feature support from special guest and Fif's longtime friend, Busta Rhymes, across all dates and Jeremih supporting on all North American dates - with more special guests to be announced!

As part of his UK dates, The Final Lap Tour 2023 sees 50’ at the OVO Hydro, in Glasgow, on November 9, AO Arena, Manchester on November 10, The O2 in London on November 11 and Resorts World Arena, November 12.

Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson is hitting the road this summer for a global tour called The Final Lap that kicked off in July with a show at the Maverik Center

50 Cent Announces ‘Final Lap’ World Tour With Busta Rhymes And Jeremih

in Salt Lake City. It keeps him on the road through a planned Nov. 12 gig at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England. Produced by Live Nation and presented by Sire Spirits, The Final Lap Tour will see ‘Fiddy’ head across North America and Europe.

l Phyllisia Ross interacts with a local patron onstage

The curtains closed with another successful staging of Dominica’s Jazz ‘n Creole. With a tropical ambiance following the ‘rainforest fantasy’ theme, the event attracted approximately 1,800 patrons based on preliminary reports. An attractive line-up catered well to a mixed audience of music lovers through the sounds of Black Violin, Island Jazz Collective, Swingin Stars, Phyllisia Ross, Octeto Kanaima and Signal Band.

This year’s Jazz ‘n Creole ensured that its patrons’ exquisite palettes were fulfilled through ample cuisine options, provided mainly by food vendors of the northern communities. For the second year, the fashion of local designers was highlighted through the Fashion Show. Models sported various styles of Dominica’s local Creole wear, international designs, and ‘rain-

foresty fantasy’ fashion. Boutik Domnik offered a wide range of local artisan products such as crafts, health and wellness products, and home décor.

Additionally, musical entertainment was provided to patrons while waiting for shuttles and between the main stage performances, providing a new element to showcase local and upcoming artistry. Patrons particularly enjoyed taking and sharing photos at the rainforest-fantasy-themed backdrop frame located in the shuttle drop-off area. The well-supervised Kids Zone provided a host of family-friendly activities including face painting, basketball hoops, and DIY jewellery beading. For those who preferred to unwind while viewing the festival, the Chill Zone created a relaxing atmosphere with numerous benches and a large screen monitor which carried the event live ensuring nothing was

missed.

Growing in popularity since its inception in 2010, plans are currently underway to provide an even better experience for patrons at next year’s festival.

Jazz ‘n Creole was presented by the Commonwealth of Dominica’s Government through the Ministry of Tourism and Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). DDA expresses its warmest gratitude to VIP sponsor – HHV Whitchurch & Co. Ltd.; gold sponsor – Belfast Estate and Kubuli; silver sponsors

– National Bank of Dominica, Tranquility Beach Resort, Fine Foods, Inc., Pirates Ltd., and National Co-operative Credit Union Ltd.; and business sponsors

– Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., Coulibri Ridge, ShopBox Dominica, Arden Sounds, Insurance Company of the West Indies (ICWI), and Sutton Place Hotel.

Busted’s series of 2.0 remakes of their biggest hits is proving to be one of the most fun concepts they’ve ever embarked upon.

The trio - James Bourne Charlie Simpson and Matt Willis - have relished the opportunity to work with bands they’ve always admired (Simple Plan, Neck Deep and Hanson, with many more to come), while fans have seen their old favourites given a fresh lease of life.

The series now continues as Busted give ‘Crashed The Wedding’ a new vibe with the help of featured artists All Time Low.

This new take on ‘Crashed The

Wedding’ is a classic case of: if it’s not broke, fix it anyway. It’s the song you’ve always loved, just with the guitars cranked up to 11, the drums hitting harder than ever before, and its sweet vocal harmonies have become far more layered and energised.

The original, from 2003, is of course a bona fide Busted classic - a Gold-certified song which became their second #1 smash, and a crowd-pleasing highlight of the band’s countless sold-out arena shows.

Busted’s Charlie says, “I’ve been listening to All Time Low since they released their debut

Ali Wong To Visit London This August For Two Shows

ACTRESS AND comedian Ali Wong has announced that she’ll be returning to the U.K. with her show Ali Wong: Live at London’s Eventim Apollo on Saturday, 12 August 2023.

Making her highly anticipated return to the U.K., Wong, a comedian, writer, actress, and director known for her comedy specials Baby Cobra, Hard Knock Wife, and Emmy-nominated Don Wong, will swing into London for one date only, offering two hilarious stand-up shows across an early and late performance during the middle of her 19-city North America tour before heading back across the pond to complete a run of U.S. dates until December 2023.

An executive produces and the voice of Bertie in Tuca and Bertie, and co-writer and star of Always Be My Maybe, plus director of Sheng Wang’s Sweet and Juicy Ali Wong’s U.K. Tour 2023 shows are on Saturday August 12, at 5.30pm and 9pm.

EP ‘Put Up Or Shut Up back in 2006.’ It’s so awesome to have them on board for reimagining one of our biggest songs.”

All Time Low add, “I had the pleasure of getting to know these guys when we worked together on a couple tracks for the McBusted album.

"Getting the call to come in and help recreate an iconic Busted song was a no-brainer. Loved being a part of this one!”

‘Crashed The Wedding 2.0’ follows the recent news that Busted will play the all-star Radio 2 in the Park event in Leicesteron September 16th.

All evidence suggests that Busted are just as big as they were the first time around. Upon announcing details of this year’s arena tour, they sold almost 150,000 tickets instantly - resulting in numerous shows being sold-out and many more being added to the schedule to keep up with phenomenal public demand, which will see them play to a total of 300,000 fans.

The tour features everyone’s favourite brother pop-trio Hanson at all dates from Birmingham (September 9th) onwards, plus New Hope Club and The Tyne.

It is not an exaggeration to say that the concept of Cayman Instyle Fashion Week (CIFW) would not be what we experienced without the creativity of the remarkable designer Norma Ebanks. Another well organised glitzy Instyle Fashion Week has come to an end in the Cayman Islands. It was a festivity of the ateliers and artistry of the many designers who are no doubt pleased with the final pieces of their collection – crafted from the earnest work, emotional commitment and dedication for each piece to make a statement.

Let’s be brutally candid for a

By Dee Burrowes

The Glitter Glimpse -Lessons Learned from Cayman Instyle Fashion Week

minute - out of all the fashion events on the island, CIFW is one of the most coveted shows to look forward to. Loads of stunning models in the most picturesque attire sashay the catwalk for the audience’s entertainment pleasure. Parading these assorted styles on stage were well known public figures Chloe Powery-Doxey (Miss Cayman Islands Universe 2022), Mariah Tibbetts (Miss Cayman Islands Universe 2020), Georgina Kerford (Miss Cayman Islands Universe 2021) and Rashana Hydes (Miss World Cayman 2021) amongst many others. The collections were out of the closet to the fashion

show catwalk allowing a tiptoed peek into its assemblage. It was impossible not to love the CIFW extravaganza – it was a dazzling, prestigious, glamorous and theatrical backdrop. Some of these beautiful clothing were also designed by other local and international designers. The host hotel, The Ritz Carlton portrayed the theme perfectly - it’s Lights, Camera, Fashion - leaving behind the memories of a fashion event well enjoyed. The most striking fashion show, energetic and mingling parties with the emerging and newest talents to be aware of.

The fashion show had young models parading in children’s

wear designed with different pattern making skills in comfortable, colourful and playful designs. Haute couture was graced with a symbol of individualism, character and humour with the evocation of the most stirling soul of happiness decked out. Local and international designers Khylo Butler – Khylo Paris Designs, Carlton Jones - Uzuri International and Adrian Alicea to mention a few.

It was all about elegance and glamour for local designer Khylo Butler – Khylo Paris Designs with sophisticated, beautiful embellishments that were red-carpet inspired, literally turning fashion on its head. As an emerging designer, she embarked on her very first fashion show at CIFW. She hopes to achieve her ultimate goal of wowing the crowd as her collection develops and continues to build her fashion business. No such thing, wholly in particular as a fashion show – in the thick of the elegant and grandiose setting in place to the lavishly appointed front row to the attire. It’s an inexpressible fondness of pure excitement that overtakes the ballroom. Circumambient, by palpable fashion magic, in admiration by virtue of how the whole deal colluded - what happens next exactly for CIFW?

As a top-notch fashion designer, Norma Ebanks' dreams were brought from a thought to commercial sewing machines, inspiration mood board, fabric store, thread, needles and thimbles. Her passion for fashion has been never-ending for all her life which provided a route to mentor several of the highest quality

fashion experts in the industry. Having studied at the prominent Parsons University in New York City and trained in Fashion and Design at the Howell School of Fashion in Jamaica.

Returning to the Cayman Islands with her many years’ of experience the renowned Creative Fashion & Design was founded – a busy and fruitful fashion entity serving the classy stylist demands of customers both locally and internationally in addition to home interior decorating.

Norma Ebanks’ mission is to encourage the youths in the Cayman Islands through fashion is the ultimate form of empowerment and self-expression of art and design. Being an advocate for mental ill-health, her organisation collaborates with the Alex Panton Foundation adding to both their already impressive impact with the community.

Here are lessons gleaned from Cayman Instyle Fashion Week. Hard work does pay off - Hard work is the key to success - for a variety of distinct motivation. Success doesn’t come with ease in any venture and the fashion industry is no exception. As far as fashion goes, persistence in whatever you do certainly pays off. Many times, it's drawing an all-nighter in assembling elaborate pieces or revamping a style to have it perfected.

It's all about the walk - Models are clad in clothing by a designer showcasing an imminent clothing line. Strutting the catwalk with charm, swagger and flawlessness - their bravery stands out with confidence and there’s nothing more magnificent.

Figure out who you are. The clue to clean-cut isn't always conforming to the latest

fashion trends. It's really cleaving to your personal style to evolve with your unique style by searching for inspiration (starting with the runway), and exploring with fashion. Never adapt to every look because it is in season or trendy.

Networking is crucial - The most affluent fashion designers are often supported by a superb team of business partners. Similarly, the most successful entrepreneurs need a boost on the creative side as well. The fashion industry in all parts, alliances and networking on various levels is really everything. Your network is your network kind of mantra.

Presentation is everythingHow you flaunt your design and collection matters as a profound presentation goes a very long way. The smallest of details are always the key. Likewise, adorning yourself in an irresistible outfit and that dazzling best pair of shoes will enhance your outward appearance and brand – be a head turner.

Teamwork - An astute fashion designer knows or should know, there are many benefits of teamwork within their team or industry. Engaging in a influences each team member to be resolute, productive and perform their best to achieve results.

After the fashion creators take their last dip amidst the postshow high, social platform buzz and desire with a lot of work needs to be completed. Welcome to the World of fashion, beyond everything — the hustle never ceases.

Featuring Dee Burrowes

HAC Veronica Pickering

Birmingham Black Business Show

By Steve Williams

It was the perfect platform for too-often unacknowledged businesses, organisations and C.I.C.s to shine a light on their growing successes, as the Birmingham Black Business Show returned to the NEC Birmingham. With some of the biggest, and ever-growing names in their respective fields on hand, it proved to be the perfect platform to connect with professionals and businesses across a number of industries.

Participants registered for this year’s exhibition included Amazon, HSCB UK, Lloyds Bank, Aclt, African Co-Operative Union, Bibinee Dolls, Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, City of Wolverhampton College, Deutsche Bank, Legacy Centre of Excellence, Federation of Small Businesses, Johnson Jamaican Spyrup, Roots to Froots Financial Wellness, Shea Coco and Technis Academy. Many more were determined to be part of this ever-growing event.

The biggest market place for Black

CREATING A PLATFORM FOR A NEW WORLD

businesses, also saw the likes of Lady Anne Welsh, founder and CEO of Painless Universal, Dragons Den icon, the renowned entrepreneur, sauce manufacturer and chef, Levi Roots, Justice Williams MBE, the founder of 'Dream Plan Launch', legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald, journalist and fellow-broadcaster Marverine Cole, Bianca Miller-Cole and Byron Cole, who have written two books to help aspiring entrepreneurs, film director Labi Odebunmi, presenter, producer and DJ,

MLavontelle and advertising guru

Marvyn Harrison be very much part of a full day of business showcasing, and shining a light on just what is – and, in many ways, what always has been – out there in the everyday, forward-thing world of business.

It was a chance to be inspired, as a select number of established names stood side-by-side with a new generation looking to get their own names ‘implanted’ into the psyche of today’s everyday living with in-depth workshops, seminars

and talks. And, with its exclusive headline partner being the afore mentioned HSBC, at this year’s Birmingham Black Business Show, the latest expert designs gadgets and tips were on hand as an ever-growing crowd of people – from throughout the UK, and further afield – learned so about what, and, more particularly, who, was moving-and-shaking in today’s world. And that, especially, in a climate where too many Black businesses and organisations feel “held back” – for a litany of reasons!

“I pay homage to our entrepreneurs, professionals and allies of Black communities,” said Entrepreneur and author Raphael Sofoluke, founder and CEO of UK Black Business Show, UK Black Business Week, Birmingham Black Business Show and the Black Tech Achievement Awards. UK Black Business Chief Operating Officer, Michael Adeniya, would go on to echo that before host, Marverene (Cole) introduced the likes of Daniella Genas MBA of Be the Boss International, whose inspiring

speech of her success against huge odds was just the start!

“Being Black in business is a ‘superpower’” she endorsed before going on to tell of her steep rise to prominence. “It’s all about ‘mindset and discipline, structure’” she went on. “It’s about letting go of mediocrity. And, it’s not about having a clear vision – it’s about having a BIG vision.” Trade Finance Director at HSBC, Stefan Johnson, then took the stage for an ‘In Conversation

With …’-style debate to tackle the issues faced with many Black entrepreneurs and start-ups in today’s world of business. He and his panel would continue the subject of ‘mindset, integrity and discipline.’

“Sessions like these are paramount to business growth,” he said pointedly, as Denise Myers, founder of Black Talent Awards, also highlighted his “journey” to the top of

his field. And, so it was, as other participants took to the stage to highlight their respective rises to the top, and gave relevant tips on how to do so.

But it was the again, the afore mentioned Sir Trevor (McDonald) who would draw the greatest attention as he told story - of how he struggled, fought and rose to prominence in the British and world psyche, him being the first person to interview the late, great Nelson Mandela, and how he sees himself in the eyes of the world today. That, in itself, was just another ‘coup’ for an event which is very much getting into position to be the greatest of its type in the not-too-distant future.

For the Birmingham Black Business Show, well, already, people are planning for 2024!

VERONICA PICKERING: A BEACON OF LIGHT

Born in Kenya, in a small place called Kisii, a young Veronica Pickering grew up with her sister Florence, with a very headstrong and entrepreneurial mother who was keen to make things better for both herself and her children’s future.

“Women didn't really go to school, didn't study and then married, and that was really their career in a sense, as it was for a lot of women back then and she was also a single parent.

“She raised both me and my sister, then brought us to England and remarried in the late 60’s and we ended up in in Kent.”

Living on a farm in her early years, Veronica remembered working and playing on and around the farm with her cousins and their families, “We could always move around with lots of rural activities. We grew tea, and coffee and corn, even pineapples and passionfruit.

“We didn’t have a sense of any poverty, besides poverty of aspirations perhaps. When my mother travelled around for work to the

cities she would see what the world had to offer and I think that changed her perspective.”

Live for many families in the Windrush Generation, it was the norm for the parents to come to the UK first, and then send for their children to join them, which is what happened to Veronica and her sister.

“I remember arriving in December 1968 and being greeted by snow! We were in Summer clothes as Kenya is hot in December. We were wrapped up in blankets by the stewards looking after us and it was so exciting to me.

“My mother married a British Engineer in the Royal Navy, so we ended up in Kent in military housing, before he got a job with an engineering company in Nottinghamshire, and we moved up there.”

Not being able to speak English very well meant that going to school in a small town school had its own difficulties. “I got into a lot of scrapes, fights and arguments with other children. I just grunted at people, and I remember kids presenting me with things and because I didn’t know what they were doing

or what they wanted, I’d just push them away which would get me in trouble.

“My stepfather was very good though, he was focused on getting us settled and making sure we learned English and Maths so we had lessons.”

Upon moving to Nottinghamshire Veronica completed her primary education and continued to sec ondary where she was particularly good at sport but not very good in the classroom.

“I was great at all things physi cal – I could run, jump, play hock ey, everything that is sporty, but I couldn’t really do Maths or Eng lish very well or anything that meant writing. But I was good at Art, so I left school and thought what am I going to do now?

“All I knew was I wanted to be the best at something. I was bright and knew I was better than I was being told at school.”

Now High Sheriff of Notting ham, Honorary Air Commo dore Professor Veronica Moraa Pickering DL has certainly done just that.

When her mother became a single parent again, she started working in a factory as she had no qualifications, meaning Ve ronica went through school she was on free uniforms, free school meals and benefits. “The fact that you were poor in a predominantly white school when I was black, that element of not being good enough was really pushed in our faces.”

l Working with the SAMBURU community in Kenya

l High Sheriff of Nottingham, Honorary Air Commodore Professor Veronica Moraa Pickering DL

people seemed to lack confidence in the idea of going to Africa and not knowing anyone. I’ve always felt that I’m a global person belonging to a global family.”

This lead to Veronica ending up on a UN Protection Conference in Nairobi, and realising that she could do so much more if she was actually based in Africa. Persuading the head of child protection for the UN working through UNICEF to talk to her about it.

“Unfortunately then the world changed for Kenya, and there was a lot of post election violence in 2007, following one of the general elections. And I felt really, really torn and very upset by what I was seeing on the news. I took a career break of three months to go and help out in Kenya with the children who had been separated from their parents. or were homeless.”

Holding a fundraising event to get her out there, somebody paid for her flight, while somebody else paid for her water. “Somebody else paid towards my travel whilst I was in the country and I persuaded the UN really and UNICEF to let me come as a volunteer.”

Veronica advised on the Child Protection Act for the Kenyan Government, and then inspecting and reviewing Kenya’s children’s homes, “I've seen more of Kenya than most people have because I'd then be flown around on and off planes to go and visit remote places where children were being abused,” Veronica winced. “It was dreadful and their mothers were expecting that because they had no money. They prepared their children to do this, it was shocking stuff.”

After a few months, time and funds were running out, and Veronica realised she had to go home, much to the sadness of the UN who wanted her to continue her work and offered her a consultancy role.

“So I went home for a month and thought about it, spoke to my

husband and he said the only way you can do this now is if you resign from your very comfortable job after 20 something years. The kids were going to Uni, so I handed in my resignation, and started my new position.

“Long story short, four years later I was still consulting around Africa and training in refugee camps, and negotiating with companies to introduce them to communities and ensure they were paid fairly for their work.”

“Nottingham Trent University had a relationship with Nairobi, and I’m not a qualified coach but suddenly everyone was telling me to qualify as one.

“So I went off and did the Masters programme at Sheffield Hallam, which was where I said I think I'm dyslexic and they said let's assess you and they did. Two assessments later they said, ‘Oh my God, you're so dyslexic. I don't know how you've ever written anything down!’

“Credentials were really important to me, having worked in the field that I had done all my career. Then I started coaching which is something I still do today, and alongside that always, always working and championing issues around diversity and talking about that. And how did the rest? Happen. I don't know. It's just life, really!”

While she admits that she will never be ‘rich’, she always says that she is “the richest person you’ll ever get to meet” because of the relationships she’s formed with people and the authenticity of what she believes if right.

“I’ve always been asked to do things, and take on roles, including the Deputy Lieutenant in May 2013, because of the work I’ve done with communities across Africa and the UK.”

“As DL, I’ve ended up supporting the Lord-Lieutenant Sir John Peace, and have had the opportunity to see my county in a new light.”

Five years ago, Veronica was approached by the RAF to become an

Honorary Air Commodore for 504 (County of Nottingham Squadron), and although something she had no experience in, she has grown into the role, all despite feeling out of her depth, “It’s an honour to represent my squadron, particularly this time of change and this reframing and focusing on diversity and people.”

“And I still feel that they need a lot more help and support than they're able to access. I also still think diversity is a major issue for the RAF and the military in general, and a lot more work needs to be done around people, but we're on a journey and I'm helping, I hope, with that.”

Following 3 years of preparation, Veronica took up the position of High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire after being vetted and voted into the role. “It’s exciting, different, unique and mind-blowing because you don't know some of this stuff exists.”

As the first black African/Caribbean and Kenyan woman in the role, she said it is a huge honour to take up the role. “In that year, my focus is young people and elevating and celebrating the achievements of young people because that's what helped me when I was young.”

“The installation was hosted by the YMCA, and the Lord Lieutenants came, the Kenyan Ambassador, people flew in from across the world to come to it, and the RAF did the fanfare and band, it was amazing.”

Veronica was also awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear by his excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya in 2022 for her services to Kenya. She was flown to Kenya by the RAF to meet and greet those who had supported the award, and to collect her award from the Cabinet Office. “The RAF do training in Kenya and they’ve had a base there for hundreds of years, it was a huge honour to receive this award that only a small number of people receive each year.”

“I couldn’t have done most of what I have done in the last 30-40 years without a lot of help from my husband. He’s an amazing man who really pushes me to do everything I can, he’s fought for me and supported me through everything.”

A National Ambassador for the Woodland Trust, and trustee for RSPB and Nottinghamshire YMCA (Robin Hood Group), Veronica continues to give her time where she can.

One word sums up Veronica’s

outlook on life. Persist. “If you don't do it now, plan to do it at some point. If you think you're not good enough? Persist. Persist and you'll find somebody that does encourage you to be what you want to be. It's never too late. I didn't get there until I was in my 40s because I was too busy looking for security and stability and I still think, gosh, if I started now, there's so much I could do!” We look forward to seeing everything you can do!

Veronica was awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear by his excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta

l Greeting the The Kenyan High Commissioner HE Manoah Esipisu on Kenyan Independence Day

With HAC Dr Marcia McLaughlin at the recent renaming of a Battle of Britain Class Locomotive to commemorate 100 Years of Volunteer Reserve Service in the RAF

In conversation with Dee Burrowes

5 EFFECTIVE WAYS TO EMOTIONALLY DETOX DURING THE SUMMER SEASON

Now that summer is in full swing, it is the absolute best time of year to do an emotional detox to eliminate impurities in the body and prepare for your best summer ever.

Many have grown accustomed to detox as a physical involvement rather than a psychological one.

The summer season is the perfect means to eliminate pollutants consumed, puffed, infused and soaked up and in some cases maltreated between your typical lifestyle and circumstances.

Emotional detoxes is a common and sensible practice for cleansing putrid and over pro-

cessed waste of feelings emancipating us from unsettled thoughts that work against us.

The summer of life brings plenty of fresh choices, a peculiar blend of blessings, nostalgia and potential that relinquishes the harvest of seeds sown within a lifetime. Braces us to buckle up for any emotional storms that resonate with seasonal cycles by throwing out the garbage taking control of your thoughts.

All too often, the physical body experiences cleansing and detoxification, but yet emotional cleansing is left by the side unaccounted for and begs for a bit of tender loving care because of the lack of compassion. An emo-

tional cleanse will never be an easy feat, it takes dedication but it gives the ability to take a jump forward in crafting a fondness towards emotional wellbeing.

A key ingredient to honing in on emotional and spiritual growth, is detoxing as a means to internally cleanse and open the consciousness of the mind as to grant permission for higher self to infuse without exception. Detoxing is a process of cleansing of the mind that will make you feel light hearted and connected – feeling as you’ve gotten life’s mojo once again.

Bottling up any form of emotions is a burden that many tend to practice almost religiously

that at times resulting in anxiety with powerful outbursts. In setting healthy boundaries, negative emotions can be squashed before they have the chance to fester and explode.

Life’s burdens tend to weigh down the strongest of individuals which gives rise to emotional turbulence that internalise mental tension. Routines that are executed for instance terrible sleep patterns and consuming the wrong diet as well as alcohol and hanging out with negative people that saps your emotional competence taking a toll on your wellbeing exhaustively.

Flow into this season with a clean sweep and rebirth of your

emotional mindset. A popular mantra for commitment is “Out with the old and in with the new.”

In a similar manner, a new season sends us to a clean spree of our mind, body and spirit - making it the right moment to detox the body and emotional weight. We've all heard of detoxes for your body, but what about for your emotions?

Summer is the perfect season to detoxify your mind, re energising your routine and having a more robust mindset is the first step for change. New freshness with your purpose filled life as you let go of any habits or beliefs of your life that are no longer serving you and clear space for rejuvenescence.

“The wounded mind must be reset like a fractured bone. It cannot heal itself without spiritual realignment” - Anthon St. Maarten

It’s about being in tune with your deepest emotions by coming to terms with your pain moving forward in the direction of healing and renewal. The trees dump their leaves in order to turn their focus inward and generate the energy they need for new growth – humans need to undergo the same. Following this rhythmical glide of nature, disconnecting from what no longer serves us or brings about joy even if it is relationships or self-criticism, this will filter a space to create new things to be born and flourish. Similar to over processed and undigested foods that drain our energy, so are our emotions which after an extended period become very unnatural. Feeling stuck, unmotivated and depressed put an enormous amount of constraint and often snowed under by what is identified by lack of breakthrough from symptoms of anxiety, stress and physical pain.

Rather than a juice cleanse flushing out highly acidic foods - think of an emotional detox as a reaction cleanse, where you forced out copious levels of anger, worry and defensiveness.

Emotional detox is not only to rid the body of what is considered to be negativity but rather

to clear out the ones that have been highly stagnated.

Here are several steps to navigate an emotional detox in making your way through these flushing and rebirthing periods.

1. Make clear – Decluttering the mind so that you can clearly work through your emotions. Being cognizant of what triggers you, making you aware of what mostly makes you reactive in your life. Noticing the patterns that blow up your sympathetic nervous system with the fight or flight mode. Adopt ways to calm yourself through exercise, yoga, prayer, hugging or a good belly laugh.

2. Do not sweat the small stuff – Not reacting to insignificant issues that potentially could be blown out of proportion. The less we indulge in the blame game we desist from misconstruing things when our emotions are in flow.

3. Setting Intentions – Listen to the signs of emotional stress by means of setting intentions for the next chapter of your life. Why am I detoxing emotionally and what am I releasing? This will support you to step into a dynamic and more conscious way instead of leaving the results to mere chance. Taking an inventory of how you desire to grow in life and having audacious goals for your dreams.

4. Looking on inward – Having self-reflection is an emotional and mental journey giving importance in being in a place of self-awareness. The looking inward strategy is bridging the gap as you face up to your inner bully accepting to experience the blessing of the raw emotions. Create positive and healthy dialogue with your daily self-talks.

5. Meditate and Journal – There are at least 50,000 thoughts daily which equates to a new thought every 1.2 seconds. Easily, the mind follows random thoughts getting us distracted from keeping our focus. Sit in silence by journaling and writing down what has been waning on your mind.