Street Cred Magazine - November 2022

Depeche Mode announce first live shows in five years

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2020 inductees Depeche

Mode announced today at a special event in Berlin that they will be releasing a new album and embarking on a world tour in 2023.

The Memento Mori Tour will support the band’s forthcoming 15th studio album, Memento Mori, due out in Spring 2023.

In a break from tradition, Dave Gahan and Martin Gore revealed today that the Live Nationpresented tour will begin with a special, limited series of North American arena dates starting

March 23rd, before the band heads to Europe for their summer stadium tour. These limited North American dates will feature stops at New York’s Madison Square Garden, Chicago’s United Center, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum and Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, among others.

The band will then begin their European stadium tour on May 16th, with noted stops including the Stade de France in Paris, Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, Milan’s San Siro Stadium, and London’s Twickenham Stadium.

In speaking about Memento Mori,

Martin Gore commented: “We started work on this project early in the pandemic, and its themes were directly inspired by that time.

"After Fletch’s passing, we decided to continue as we’re sure this is what he would have wanted, and that has really given the project an extra level of meaning.”

Dave Gahan added: “Fletch would have loved this album.

"We’re really looking forward to sharing it with you soon, and we can’t wait to present it to you live at the shows next year.” Tickets are now on general sale.

Food & Fine Dining

Charity V For Life Inviting People To Join Their Monthly Virtual Vegan Luncheon Club

OPEN TO VEGANS, vegetarians, and meat reducers aged 65 and over, the club offers attendees the chance to learn new dishes, get tips from an experienced vegan chef, and meet like-minded people from across the UK. The club takes places through Zoom on the fourth Tuesday of every month.

Recipes are provided in advance, so you have plenty of time to get the ingredients. Cook that morning and then join Vegetarian for Life Chef Justina, along with attendees from across the UK, at 1pm.

Justina is a Culinary Arts Management graduate who brings knowledge and passion for sustainable, plant-based eating. She has managed a variety of groups of chefs and created her own menus, working in both Italian and theatre restaurants.

Pilsner Urquell Celebrates 180 Years

As World’s First Golden

Pilsner Urquell, the world’s original golden pilsner, is celebrating 180 years of putting foam smiles on people’s faces.

First brewed on the 5th October 1842, through its iconic pilsner style, the brand, which is part of Asahi Europe & International, has inspired thousands of other pilsner beers around the world. To commemorate the momentous anniversary, this year’s annual Pilsner Fest will be taking place in the city of Plzeň, Czech Republic, where Pilsner Urquell first originated, on Saturday 8th October. Throughout its history, Pilsner Urquell has been brewed in the same brewery in Plzeň, with the same Czech ingredients and recipe from 1842.

Pilsner Urquell, distinctive for its dense, creamy foam, is reinforced through the Pilsner Urquell Tapster Programme, a global community of trained bartenders who champion beer quality and pour the perfect pint (with three fingers of foam, of course) all over the world.

Pilsner Urquell is dedicated to the goals of Asahi Europe & International’s Legacy 2030 sustainability strategy, working with farmers from the region to maintain the tradition of local cooperation using high quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.

Urquell’s brewery in Plzeň has maintained its perfect recipe and brewing process, whilst responding to the world’s changing climate with a strong commitment to sustainability.

Since 2021 Pilsner Urquell’s bottles use 100% recyclable paper labels, saving 48.4 tonnes of aluminium and 57.6 tonnes of plastic every year.

Ard Bossema, Pilsner Urquell Global Brand Director said: “Our 180th anniversary is an emotional milestone. Our golden pilsner is now the world’s favourite style of beer. It’s also a celebration of the passion, consistency and integrity that’s gone into crafting every drop for over 180 years. In a world where things are evolving at lightning speed, we’re proud to say we haven’t changed a thing –from the way we brew our beer to the way it’s poured with three fingers of foam.”

Kamil Růžek, Pilsner Urquell

Senior Trade Brewmaster added: “The traditional Pilsner foam style is important on many levels. It creates the perfect balance in our beer – the creamy sweetness complements the bitterness of the Saaz hops. It’s also our quality promise to consumers, as good foam can only come from good ingredients. Finally, it acts as a barrier to oxygen, keeping the beer fresher for longer.”

Pilsner

She is passionate about experimenting with different/ unusual flavours and baking. She enjoys travelling and seeking inspiration in cuisines around the globe.

"As always, there is no need to cook all of the recipes," she says. "You can choose just one or two,

or simply join the lunch club with a cup of tea or what you're having for your lunch that day".

Attendees have told the charity, which supports older vegans and vegetarians: "It was a lovely lunchtime meet up, with lots of pie!" and: "It was really nice to attend for the first time yesterday. Thank you."

Recipes take a different theme each month and are The next club is on: 25th October - Bake Off take 2.

Birmingham Voted As Britain’s Most Exciting Food Destination

BIRMINGHAM WAS recently voted as Britain’s “most exciting food destination” at a ceremony at The Groucho Club, in Soho. The Good Food Guide’s awards put the second city ahead of second-place London for best food venues.

Three restaurants in the city were ranked in its Top 20, with the highest ranked West Midlands restaurant being The Wilderness, in the Jewellery Quarter placed tenth. Michelin star, Carters of Moseley, finished 18th.

In its 70th year of publication, at The Good Food Guide: Top 20 Most Exciting Restaurants of 2022 the 20 most exciting restaurants in Britain saw L’Enclume in Cumbria take the top spot, followed by Ynyshir, in Ceredigion, mid Wales. Bronze was taken by Lancashire’s Moor Hall, Lancashire, while the Raby Hunt, in County Durham took fourth.

The Good Food Guide said: “No other English provincial city is as well served with such

a range of unique and frequently exceptional restaurants right across the price range. At the top of the scale, three exceptional places from the Birmingham area feature in our 20 most exciting restaurants in Britain – an extraordinary feat.

“But getting the balance just right extends to others including Opheem, with its unmistakably curry-based but uniquely modern-British approach, and

Harborne Kitchen, where Jamie Desogus pulls off a real coup, making the restaurant a bit of a holy grail in terms of packing mass-appeal into posh nosh. Nowhere but in Britain – and perhaps even more specifically in Birmingham - could this cooking occur”.

The top five was rounded out by the UK’s first-ever Michelinstarred pub, the Sportsman, which sits just outside of Whitstable.

All five frequently appear in UK food and restaurant award lists; the three medallists all picked up the Good Food Guide’s “world class” title.

The highest performing London restauant was Jason Atherton’s Pollen Street Social at number eight, with Tom Sellers’ Restaurant Story (11), Da Terra (17), Kol (19) and Endo at the Rotunda 20th.

l Brewmaster Kamil Ruzek at Pilsner Urquell brewery in Plzeň

Pilsner

Tony Iommi Receives Unique Picture Of Black Sabbath Bench

Aunique work of art that captures Black Sabbath’s ‘heavy metal’ bench in Birmingham has been created for and delivered as a special gift to Tony Iommi, the band’s lead guitarist. And now a limited edition of 250 prints of the painting have been produced for die-hard metal fans to purchase.

The picture, created by local artist Paula Gabb, looks down on the canal from the Barajee Indian restaurant opposite the bench on Broad Street, which has become a major landmark for tourists to the city.

Westside Business Improvement District (BID), where the bench is located, spotted what was originally a digital picture on the web and then commissioned Gabb to reproduce and refine it as a one-off work of art.

The BID has now delivered it to Tony Iommi’s Midlands home as a ‘thank you’ present for the star’s continued support for the district.

Iommi, who unwrapped and viewed the picture for the first time on a bench in his back garden this week, said: “Thank you Westside! It’s a great painting and I’m so chuffed to see the Back Sabbath bench depicted in such colourful art.”

Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, said: “Tony has shown fantastic commitment with his willingness to turn out in person on Westside over the years, and we

wanted to find a special way of saying ‘thank you’.

“When we first saw this painting by Paula, I shared an image of it with Tony and he expressed his delight and pleasure at the work and how it had so accurately depicted the bench.

“I knew then that this would make a great gift for him and am delighted that the picture is now hanging in his home studio.”

OLLY MURS WITH MARRY

Don’t believe everything you see on TV: Olly Murs has been away. After recently signing to EMI Records, the chart-topping star is back and now returns with the release of Marry Me, his first new studio album in over four years, and the 7th of his illustrious career, on December 2nd.

'Die Of A Broken Heart' opens the album, and arrives as the first single. From the opening notes, you can hear why – it’s an instant ear-worm, a one-listen-andyou’re-hooked pop-reggae outlier - listen here.

As Olly describes it: “It has that steel drum at the intro, which just gets in your head straight away. It has a very Gotye, ‘Somebody I Used to Know’ feel to it, with a touch of The Police – and just a coolness to it. That really excited me.”

He jumped in, committing to writing and recording the album solely with David Stewart and Jessica Agombar, who between them have had roaring success writing for BTS securing a Billboard number one - a number one in over 100 countries. One album, three writers and no features. “I've never done this before. It felt weird writing with the same people constantly. But I loved the routine, and the consistency. We just kept writing good songs. They had a great

vibe and an enthusiasm, and a hunger”

The singer, songwriter and solid-gold pop star has been all over our screens recently. He’s been front and centre as host of ITV’s Starstruck, then, he returned to the big swivelly chair on The Voice. But in the artist world – the world that forged him, Olly has been off the radar for over four years. Now, the musician who had four Number One singles and four Number One albums in a near-back-toback run after bursting onto the scene with his double-platinum self-titled debut in 2010, is well and truly back.

The joy and energy of that creative process ripple and radiate out from Marry Me. Case in point: ‘Go Ghost’. The playfulness of the lyric is matched by the very Eighties bounce of the track, like peak

IS BACK MARRY ME!

A-Ha for the social media age. Murs met his partner in 2019, an other big change. This life-chang ing jolt is reflected in another new song. ‘I Found Her’ is a big tune with big energy and a big, soaring synth line.

Also bringing the good-time party vibes is ‘Dancing on Cars’, a tune with an exuberant ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ feel. And if

DESTINATION: GHANA

not dissatisfied with the delivery and attention to detail of the entire staff on hand at Movenpick, in particular Valentine Sena, their Meetings and Events Executive.

We could not have asked for a more accommodating establishment, for our Be Bold! Conference on the 29th September, and the Gala Dinner and Awards on the night of the 30th September.

We also had invited special guests and our team staying at the hotel, who enjoyed a luxurious and more than comfortable stay.

Nana Addo Dankwa AkufoAddo visited London to unveil the launch of Destination: Ghana, where he once again invited the world to visit The Gateway.

While this was marketed as a hassle free, covid-unhindered process, this was unfortunately far from the truth.

EDITORS NOTE

Welcome to “The Phoenix Africa” an exclusive FREE quality Newspaper for the people and business community of Africa.

The Phoenix Africa is a fresh and vibrant publication bringing quality content to the masses. The first free newspaper to be published in Africa by Africans. Leading the way and setting trends.

This is a sister publication to the successful “The Phoenix Newspaper UK” which has stayed true to its focus in providing a regular mix of Positive and Informative articles with an honest and unbiased viewpoint that have a direct connection to its growing readership of 8million worldwide.

This newspaper is birthed from a positive perspective with the intent of showcasing the true state of events ranging from three cardinal perspectives, which are places, events and people.

These promote culture, discovering of talents, and achievers, (traditional, political, career, and academics).

Events - drawn from three main perspectives, festival, carnival and shows, as well as personal celebrations, birthdays, weddings, graduations and more.

Places - what are the reasons behind the attraction of people, of which invariably people will take advantage of in creating business opportunities thereby addressing the issue of poverty eradication.

When The Phoenix Newspaper decided to stage its 10th Anniversary in Ghana this year, we knew that we would face certain challenges.

However, with faith, determination and the will to win, we were optimistic of a positive outcome.

The people of Ghana were generally very welcoming and accommodating, and the Mampong connections in Ghana that the newspaper already enjoyed, dating back to 1997 with its previous title, 'The Enterprise' made navigating this new space a lot easier, especially thanks to

Choosing a venue that would reflect the standard of the venue The Phoenix Newspaper regularly used for its annual awards in the UK, The Internatinal Convention Centre, was a difficult task until we discovered Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra.

Perfectly positioned in the capital city of Accra, and truly a 5-star offering, in it's location, vibrancy, professionalism, hospitality, once they found it, Movenpick was the obvious choice.

They felt that the people of Ghana deserved the best, and were

From the warm and welcoming greetings from the doormen and porters, to the chefs and the culinary masterpieces they created, the stay at the hotel was top tier.

Thanks must go to the chef also, for upgrading the fish option to salmon, to give a more accommodating selection to suit every palate.

It's true what they say about the spiritual aspect (if you are that way inclined) of entering Africa for the first time. It truly felt like a homecoming, and you felt the need to kiss the ground upon your arrival.

A remarkable proudness coupled with a sense of belonging enshrined this connecting of communities, with the aim of enspiring the next generation.

AKWAABA!

In July of this year, President

From confusion over vaccination and visa requirements, to testing and screening on arrival, there were far more barriers to entry than we were lead to believe, and a lot of people who had intended to visit Ghana for the event were unable to do so, after parting with their hard earned cash for flights and accommodation.

It would be prudent for the embassy to consider updating their sites to allow a more user friendly accessibility so that those who are interesting in taking up the invitation to return, will have an easier and more streamlined visit.

That being said, upon arrival in Ghana, we were welcomed with open arms. One of the things that we weren't expecting was the juxtaposition of high humidity, decent temperatures and torrential rain, although it was desperately needed!

Ghana was a fantastic experience, and we can't wait to return, look out next year for the Phoenix Africa Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation!

The Phoenix Newspaper is renowned as the “voice of the people” truthful and professional journalism, in depth reports and interviews, facts and not fiction, presented in a bright and refreshing publication that attracts and captivates its audience.

Now these exciting developments are coming to the people of Africa in this Exclusive Free Newspaper & Online Publication.

Working with the people and communities of Africa, starting in Ghana, which is seen as the Gateway, The Phoenix Africa will be connecting with senior government departments and embracing the leaders of major business enterprises, we will be bringing something for everyone, in this new and exclusive publication providing a platform for the Role Models that the next generation will aspire to be.

Building upon our success “Phoenix Africa” will contain exclusive news and developments from across the continent of Africa and the world, bringing detailed and authoritative reports and reviews of matters that reflect and affect both the lifestyle and prosperity of the African people.

People - discovering of individuals who stand out in their area of work .

Discovering of, and the empowerment of young talented youth and showcasing them to the world as well as older people who are achievers especially in the traditional institutions.

This is a platform that will create employment for many young people who aspire to be within this type of industry.

It will invariably give them the chance to write their own narrative to reflect a more inclusive attitude when representing themselves, their culture and their people.

It is important to note that we do NOT report sensationalised news, only uplifting and nonbiased apolitical journalism.

Welcome to The Phoenix Africa, your one stop shop of everything positive.

Finally, may I give my warmest thanks to the children of St Peter's Lutheran Church and School, who were absolutely phenomenal on the night, serenading everyone with the utmost professionalism, from their entrance to their exit, they were the pinnacle of perfection.

We hope they all continue to rise like Phoenixes.

l Valentine Sena & Paul Harrison

l Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin, Editor In Chief, The Phoenix Africa

HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti.

A Special Message From Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh, And Our Partners For The Be Bold! Conference, The Nishkam Centre

The Gala Dinner was a delight to attend. Distinguished guests, dignitaries, and His Royal Highness Nana Agyemekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye were welcomed with much enthusiasm by drummers, dancers, and traditional entourage.

A wonderful sight for all to experience and enjoy. Even more heart-warming was the appreciation of the entry of Dida Nsuta Ashanti, the Queen Mother and the ladies in her entourage.

They were shown such deference and respect – a reminder to us all of the importance of our parents.

We were treated to such beautiful music and songs with thought-provoking lyrics. The children from St Peter’s

Lutheran Church and School sang ‘Something inside so Strong’ and ‘Lean on me’ with such enthusiasm and great gusto. We were moved by their perfect renditions of both songs – such an impressive performance from the children.

We were treated to a short film that showed the achievements of the Phoenix Newspaper across the World as they go from strength to strength in building relationships and partnerships – all for the advancement of communities that are in need.

A shining example of keeping positivity and optimism at the fore front of all you do. Smiling in the face of adversity as you keep on trying despite the setbacks. Their strength and determination has helped them become a real

positive force – one that will surely be seen and felt across Africa very soon indeed.

The awards ceremony recognised some of the hardworking individuals that are going above and beyond to help others through education, industry, and community matters.

The thank you speeches conveyed such humility and modesty that you knew the right people had been chosen to receive the accolades. Such inspiring individuals that you felt proud to be sitting amongst them and sharing their special evening with them.

A huge thank you must be said to Marcia McLauchlin for inviting myself and GNNSJ Team to Africa, the continent of my birth. It has been an honour

to visit Ghana – a very warmhearted nation with a rich-legacy and the first country to achieve its independence from colonial rule. It has since flourished and become one of the peaceful nations in Africa – a huge achievement given its multitude of people with over fifty spoken languages.

I would also like to thank Dr Haruna and Professor John Azumah of the Sanneh Institute without whose support and collaboration our trip would not have been the huge success it has been.

May we all be inspired to search our traditions for those practices that bring the mind, body, heart and soul into synch, to establish a wholesome, lasting peace within the self and others.

l

Bhai Sahib Bhai

Dr Mohinder Singh

BE BOLD! CONFERENCE

Aroyal procession, led

by HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye

Amlak Aduana

Hene of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti, preceded an eventful, though-provoking prelude to The Phoenix Newspaper 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show, which came under the theme of ‘Be Bold! Conference’. It was also time for the unveiling of the ‘bold’ Phoenix Africa!

The multi-faith Conference began, by welcoming Professor John Azumah, Executive Director of the Sannah Institute, in Ghana, who talked of the advance of the country – on a worldwide basis – as more and more people are turning to the country, for many reasons.

Within his speech, he said: “As one of the first countries – south of the Sahara region - to gain independence from our former colonial masters, we are also one of the leading west African countries blessed with on-going peace, in the region – something that we don’t take for granted. We take pride in being so uniquely multireligious”, he went on, “and as such, there is no better place in west Africa”.

An ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church and associate professor of World Christianity and Islam, Prof. Azumah is one of the leaders in Islam and Christian–Muslim relations and he is currently working on research in the area of World Christianity and Islam.

Following this, was the introduction of the ‘Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ by its director, Dr Josef Boehel, a Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham, UK, who talked about his vision “is that the process of forgiving is vital if healing and reconciliation are to take place, as part of our collective efforts to seek justice, harmony and sustainable peace.

“Fostering and practising forgiveness,” he continued, “has the power to transform memories and deep-seated responses to legacies of injustice, conflict and war. It can liberate people from being imprisoned in their pasts and long ingrained mental and emotional conditions.

“Faith and spiritual traditions guide and inspire us to awaken the best of our human potential,

by practising compassion, mercy, kindness, love, forgiveness and reconciliation, and to positively reshape our destinies. We, people, mindful of our shared humanity, commit to practise and nurture forgiveness and reconciliation, to foster healing, harmony, justice and sustainable peace in our world”.

His presence, which was live screened, pre-empted a panel, which included Sheik Anyawo Shaibu, who is the spokesperson for the National Chief Imam of the Republic of Ghana, the Head at the Department for the Study of Religion at the University of Ghana, Professor Rose Mary Amengo-Atego, Ambassador Mussie Hailu of the United Religions initiative, Global Peace Foundation and the General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Reverend Dr Cyril G.K. Fayosa.

The theme, ‘Building Towards Peaceful Communication’, highlighting the challenges faced on ground level and the relevant steps to take to solve the issues, and what’s working well? And what is not?

The panel went on to discuss the ‘Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ and its worldwide movement of people seeking forgiveness, reconciliation, justice and sustainable peace – as well as being aware of the oneness of our human family. This, before the focus turned on to what mechanisms were needed to address whether enough have been, and will be, done to address the significant issues and move forward.

After facing a barrage of questions from the floor, and allaying queries and doubts, and adhering to the collective drive forward, for Ghana, Africa, and indeed, the world-at-large, a

second panel discussion – ‘The Primacy of Forgiveness and Reconciliation for Peacebuilding in Africa’ – included the chair of the National Peace Council, Rev, Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi, academic Hajia Fatima Sulamanu, who is a National Trustee at the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Ghana, Prof. John Azumah and Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh Ji, chair of the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sevak Jatha, in Birmingham, Co. President of the Gandhi Foundation, the Hon. Ela Gandhi, who is the granddaughter of Mahatma (Gandhi) gave a recorded message, which was a continuation of the anti-colonialist and political ethicist message once lauded by her grandfather.

She highlighted the idea of mobilising communities – in all aspects for an easy transformation for forgiveness and reconciliation, to facilitate change in others.

“The biggest challenge,” she said, “would be to convince others that change is the only way forward.”. the panel then went on to discuss ‘The Primacy of Forgiveness and Reconciliation for Peace in Africa’ which, as one point, was the role of women in society as a whole.

“One thing is vitally important,” said one speaker from the floor, “and that is -regardless of sex, faith, or age, it’s about bringing people together. If we really want to make a change, we must engage with young people if we want to make a change for the future.

So, please, let’s engage with the children.”

That was the perfect pre-cursor for the main reason for our being there, the unveiling of ‘Phoenix Africa’ which took place after group photos were taken for the morning session, and breaking for lunch which was compliments of The Phoenix Newspaper for all delegates.

The afternoon session was moderated by Alistair Soyode, and began with the unveiling of The Phoenix Africa by the team, led by one of the leading team members, Bernard Kwakye. He would then present it to the audience, who, themselves, could not wait to be part of what promises to be a very bright future.

This draws on the sentiment of the message of the morning to engage with the youth of today, giving them a platform and a voice to write their own narrative.

It was after then that one of our specially invited guests, Commander RJ Walters, defence adviser to Accra & Non-Resident Attaché Adidjan, Lome and Cotonou, facilitated by Honorary Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin and Wing Commander Howard Leader of the Royal Auxilliary Air Force in the UK, entered on stage and spoke of Ghana and the Commonwealth.

The country’s role, moving forward, was laid bare for the country - in particular and west Africa, in general, the highlight of the message here.

“How are we perceived in this area?” Cdr Walters asked. “I think that the UK is seen as a trusted partner”, he said. “Like training Ghanaian officers at training schools in the UK.

“Moving forward,” he went on, “is that we want to see Ghanaian officers trained here, in Ghana, so that African solutions can be made for African problems. So, we want to train Ghanaian officers in Ghana, and likewise others similarly in nations in and around the region, and beyond.” A message that was endorsed on by host, RAF Media Reserves’ Cpl Jonathan Sarabadu, representing The Phoenix Newspaper.

“Whatever it is,” CEO of BEN TV Alistair Soyode, said, “there’s

always dignity and integrity in culture.” It was then that Stephen Osle-Ameche of Green Tropics International Group, Ghana, and Hotel Chocolat Plc, UK, who introduced the ‘Working in Partnership to Promote Gentle Farming and other ForwardThinking Initiatives in The Cocoa Sector’, to join a new panel.

“I represent a group”, Stephen said, “that is known in Ghana as the Green Tropics International Group. As part of the biodiversity, they create specialized chocolate and, for the past 20 years, have had funds provided to take on and train young people - in their Gentle Farming Scheme, for them to then take on and develop their own businesses.

“For every acre of land they produce, we will give them 450 high-grade cocoas, as part of the ‘Young Farmers Support Scheme, which is free of charge. So, when cocoa is removed from the land, we would see that the land is replenished”.

"That is just one of the many engagement initiatives that makes Green Tropics International Group, Ghana, and Hotel Chocolat Plc, UK, so uniquely special, when it comes to engagement – at all levels."

Khori Hyde was last to speak at the Conference. A Chief Diaspora Representative at real estate development and management group, Moorland Development, in Jamaica, he spoke from the heart when he said: “Boy Ghana, when I looked out of the plane window, I said ‘bwoy, I’m home.

“I grew up in Jamaica, but to be part of this homeland… WOW!

“I came here to talk about Moorland Development, but I want to talk about ‘peace of mind’, because when you have peace of mind, we Caribbeans are healing. And I am evidence of that reconciliation. We in the Caribbean were disconnected, centuries ago. We are now healing, as part of our reconciliation process.

“I am proud to be part of this great gathering of great African leaders, and African kings and queens –my brothers and sisters, aunties and uncles, great grandfathers and great grandmothers. I’m proud to be here (in Ghana) to be part of The Phoenix Newspaper’s 10th Anniversary celebrations “At Moorland Development we believe in developing communities and we believe in ‘strength in affinity’. All which is inspired by nature. Moorland is offering you a ‘home-from-home’.

“In this room,” he went on, “we are one love, with one heart… so, let’s just get together and feel alright!" as he emotionally burst into a rendition of 'One Love' by the late great Bob Marley. Which, for all who took up this once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, was the least we all felt!

l Bhai Sahib Ji

l Commander RJ Walters

l Alistair Soyode

l Khori Hyde

It was Destination: Ghana as The Phoenix Newspaper marked ten glorious years of being the only internationally read positive, informative, and objective publication. And, to mark this auspicious occasion, it was time for the great and the good, from home and abroad, to gather – in Accra!

The continent was calling for a piece of The Phoenix action, and they got it –in splendour and abundance. This, for the team, it proved a dream coup – for everyone who witnessed this marvel, it was, without doubt, an unbelievable celebration – for the TPN Media team, as a whole and its creator, Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin F.Birm.Soc, in particular. Now an established fixture on

the UK’s annual Awards calendar, and Birmingham’s International Convention Centre’s No.1 Awards event, Air Commodore Dr Marcia (our truly fearless leader) saw fit to have this, our 10th Anniversary, celebrated at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, in Ghana’s capital city, concluding on her promise made in 1997 to the Chief in the Mampong Region of the Ashanti to provide for Ghana.

In the presence of some of Africa’s leading Kings and Queens, Spiritual Leaders and other renowned dignitaries, from the continent and further afield, this, in many ways, was the ultimate destination – for the ultimate Awards Show.

“This was a fantastic evening where we recognise some of the wonderful people from across Africa,” Dr Marcia said in a special speech, “and we also proudly give away specially diamond cut glass batons to everyone who has done remarkable service for their community.

“We also give a special tribute to the Nayiri, one of our greatest rulers, who has done so much for his community and thank all the African Kings, Queens, and Spiritual Leaders Thank you, too, also went out to the Guru Nanak Nishkam

Sewak Jatha, in Birmingham, especially its Spiritual Leader and Chair, Bhai Sahib

They visited Ghana to use it as a platform to launch their ‘Peace Charter’ initiative – a charter for peace and reconciliation.

Dr Marcia also gave great thanks to St. Peter’s Lutheran School, in Accra –“an amazing bunch of young people,” she said, “who showed that when young people get together, they are a joy.

(More was to come from St. Peter’s).

“Take this opportunity to embrace Phoenix Africa and thank you, Ghana”, she finished off saying, “for accepting our invite”, before her chosen song; ‘My Special Prayer‘, sung by Percy Sledge, enhanced the spirit that led the Conference.

And after Nishkam Civic Engagement and Partnerships Director, Amrick Singh Ubhi expressed the honour for the Nishkam Centre to be invited to be part of this memorable trip – with the blessing of a present Bhai Sahib Jiand highlighting the Nishkam’s worldwide brand he invited their dedicated volunteers on stage, whose performance was the perfect prelude to what followed.

“Quite the most fantastic group of young people you have ever seen in your life,” RAF Media Reserves, Cpl. Jonathan Sarabadu who was representing The Phoenix Newspaper, said, as he introduced St. Peter’s Lutheran School to the stage at the 5-Star venue which was perfect for them.

And, boy, he was so right as their version of Labi Siffre’s ‘Something

Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh.

l Alistair Soyode, CEO of BEN TV

l

RAF Media Reserves, Cpl onathan Sarabadu

l Chef Kano with Jonathan Sarabadu and Khori Hyde

l

Roland Joseph Tetteh and his daughter

l Khori Hyde with Paul Harrison and Alistair Soyode

Inside So Strong’, followed by their rendition of the Bill Withers classic, ‘Lean On Me.’

To say ‘tears flowed’ after that was an understatement, to say the least. To see those young, impressionable children perform on stage, in front of a packed room, you’d feel that they were intimidated by that. Not in the slightest! They all took it in their collective strides and received a standing ovation for their efforts.

And, not finishing there, the young boys and girls couldn’t leave the stage until they received special Phoenix gifts – for just being very special young people.

Ghana’s future is bright. No mistake there. And that was just the beginning. Now, it was time to eat. And, without doubt, if it’s hospitality you’re looking for, the 5-star Mövenpick Hotel had it in spades, as the food laid on, and the staff on-hand made this night very, very special for all concerned – especially us at The Phoenix Newspaper!

But it was onto the Awards, which, with great anticipation, was as follows:

Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Nana Kweku Agyemang Leadership and Empowerment Award

Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings Educational Excellence Award

Ben Amoako

Community Engagement Award

Nana Tangme Ababio Mamano International Excellence Award Alistair Soyode Business of the Year Dr Kwadwo Safo Kantanka

Humanitarian Award

One of the attractions was when Nana Tangme Ababio Mamano came to receive her Community Engagement Award for her work in the Kumasi Ashanti region, she created quite the spectacle with drums and dancing from her seat to the stage.

It was then left to Paul Harrison, who, having emphasized his call to always continue to “support one another,” then led the continuation of the presentations - by this time, The Phoenix Newspaper Baton Awards, which would then bring to a close what was an overwhelmingly awe-inspiring 10th Anniversary Dinner & Gala Awards presentation and Conference, the likes of which WILL live in the memories of all in Ghana, all who were present, and all of us here at The Phoenix Newspaper!

Whilst it was an incredibly immense honour and pleasure to be able to be a part of what took place at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, to celebrate The Phoenix Newspaper’s 10th Anniversary and to launch Phoenix Africa, this truly was all that was hoped for and expected, plus much, much more! See you next year!

The Phoenix Newspaper would like to thank our Partners, The Nishkam Centre

for their contribution towards this event.

We are grateful that they chose us, and our 10th Anniversary as the platform to launch the Peace Charter in Africa.

We would like to thank our sponsors Victoria Mutual, for their vision and sponsorship of the Be Bold! Conference.

And special recognition goes out to Roland Joseph Tetteh, Content Editor of Phoenix Africa, who has stood by Dr Marcia since 1997 through all of her endeavours.

Also to Dr Alex Akwaeze, whose dedication, determination and desire to make change in his country of Nigeria and has given 8 years of service to this mission.

To Bernard Kwakye, Operations Manager Ghana for Phoenix Africa, and his team, Rhoda Adjowa Ampeaw and Michael Edem Attivor, for their dedication to deliver positivity to Ghana over the last 4 years.

None of this would be possible without a very important 'glue' - our Head of Production and Technical Affairs, Mr Daniel Riley, alongside Mr Steven Williams, Content Editor for The Phoenix Newspaper UK, and Mr Mark Dwayne for Social Media Marketing and Advertising.

Finally, we would like to thank Cpl Jonathan Sarabadu for taking up the challenge of hosting both events, Mr Alistair Soyode for facilitating and moderating the afternoon session of the conference, and Mr Paul Harrison for his expertise in Public Relations and handling our dignitaries and Royal guests.

Editor’s Award

‘King’ Chef Kano Charity of the Year Rev. Dr Sam Ato Bentil

Lifetime Achievement Award

Nana Prof Susubribi Krobea Balfour Asante

Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Shiriga

l HRH Nana Amlak with Chef Kano

Khori Hyde – “Building Communities, Strengthening Affinity, Inspired by Nature”

Diasporians are owning high-end properties in Jamaica with Moorland Development and mortgage partners Victoria Mutual (VM), as experienced and trusted pillars in real estate development and investment.

Through a series of Expos, Soirees, and customized chats, VM Ambassador Khori Hyde has awakened the desire of Diasporians of the UK and Europe to actively pursue their dream to own property in Jamaica. These events were precursor to his recent visit to the Continent of Africa in September where he met with real estate business interests.

Gratitude extended to Dr. Marcia McLaughlin of The Pheonix Newspaper who invited Mr Hyde to the newspaper’s 10th Anniversary Conference and Gala Awards, held in Ghana, Africa, on September 29th to 30th 2022. Mr. Hyde embraced this opportunity and delivered an engaging presentation to a receptive audience, who, at the end queued up to gain more insight on how they may take the next step to transform their property development and ownership dreams into reality, ranging from social housing solutions in Africa to luxury investment units in Ja-

maica.

With Mr. Khori Hyde as a VM Brand Ambassador, the Diaspora has a familiar, accessible, and trusted avenue to property ownership, whether for personal use or for investment. Moorland Development Company has developed communities and single-lot properties in Jamaica for over two decades aiming to always deliver “The best of living inspired by nature”. With Victoria Mutual as mortgage partners, they have indeed transformed the everyday of anyone who dared desire property ownership.

Mr

vibe and an enthusiasm, and a

The singer, songwriter and solid-gold pop star has been all over our screens recently. He’s been front and centre as host of ITV’s Starstruck, then, he returned to the big swivelly chair on The Voice. But in the artist world – the world that forged him, Olly has been off the radar for over four years. Now, the musician who had four Number One singles and four Number One albums in a near-back-toback run after bursting onto the scene with his double-platinum self-titled debut in 2010, is well

The joy and energy of that creative process ripple and radiate out from Marry Me. Case in point: ‘Go Ghost’. The playfulness of the lyric is matched by the very Eighties bounce of the track, like peak

www.streetcredmagazine.com

IS BACK MARRY ME!

A-Ha for the social media age. Murs met his partner in 2019, another big change. This life-changing jolt is reflected in another new song. ‘I Found Her’ is a big tune with big energy and a big, soaring synth line.

Also bringing the good-time party vibes is ‘Dancing on Cars’, a tune with an exuberant ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ feel. And if

all been enormously successful. The stats speak for themselves: 6 multi-platinum albums, 4 #1 UK albums, 4 #1 UK singles, 6 million spotify monthly listeners, 800 million Youtube views & 1.8 million tour tickets sold.

Olly is sure to have people dancing – if not proposing – in the aisles next year, when he gets back on tour. Last time round he

This is the Essex-machine at his happiest, too. How do we know? The clue is in the album title: Marry Me. The answer? Hint: she said yes…Anything else to declare – other, of course, than ‘I do’?.......... “I'm buzzing! I've got my music. I know where I am now."

You can catch Olly at: April

Fri 21st Glasgow, OVO Hydro

Sat 22nd Newcastle, Utilita Arena

Mon 24th Cardiff, International Arena

Thu 27th Nottingham, Motorpoint Arena

Fri 28th Leeds, First Direct Arena Sat 29th London, The O2 Arena

May Mon 1st Bournemouth, International Centre Tue 2nd Brighton, Brighton

Lizzo has shared details of UK and European dates for her ‘The Special Tour’ in 2023.

The pop star, who kicks off the tour in North America in support of her latest album, ‘Special‘, will play 15 dates across Europe and the UK next year.

It begins at Oslo’s Spektrum on February 17 before wrapping at The O2 in London on March 15. Those with American Express cards in Norway, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy and the UK can purchase tickets in a pre-sale.

Meanwhile, last week Li made history by becoming the first person in two centuries to play the Library of Congress’ 200-year-old crystal flute. The huge moment took place last Tuesday (September 27) at Lizzo’s Washington DC show where she played the flute which was originally owned by the fourth president of the United States, James Madison.

Sharing a clip of the performance on Twitter after the show, Lizzo wrote: “NOBODY HAS EVER HEARD THIS FAMOUS CRYSTAL FLUTE BEFORE […] NOW YOU HAVE.”

“I’M THE FIRST AND ONLY PEROSN TO EVER PLAY THIS

Lizzo Announces Dates For Her 2023 UK And European Tour

PRESIDENTIAL 200-YEAR-OLD CRYSTAL FLUTE – THANK YOU @librarycongress.”

During her set, Lizzo – who is a classically trained flautist – will

also provide her fans with insight into her classical history. Joy Crooks will support Lizzo on all UK dates.

Fortnite Games Creator Building An Immersive Experience For Drivers

PHOTOREALISTIC

VISUALISATION

technology will be in Birmingham soon, allowing drivers to purchase electric cars with advanced 3D animations and immersive graphics.

Volvo Cars has collaborated with Epic Games, best known for its globally successful videogame, Fortnite, to bring unparalleled high-quality graphics to its upcoming range of electric cars. The partnership will allow the next generation of Volvo cars to showcase advanced displays that feature sharper renderings, richer colours and brand-new 3D animations.

Within the next 18 months, the technology will allow Birmingham drivers to purchase electric cars from Paul Rigby Birmingham on Chester Road that include Volvo’s next-generation infotainment system. This will be more than twice as fast as its predecessor, creating a cutting-edge user experience.

The first car to contain the new graphics is the new, all-electric flagship model that Volvo Cars

will reveal later this year. The model will be the first of a new generation of all-electric Volvo cars, as the company aims to sell only pure electric cars by 2030.

Andy Kirkham, Sales Director at Paul Rigby Birmingham, said: “This collaboration is another exciting step forward on our journey to ramp up the electrification of motoring through a range of cars that provide the best possible user experience.

“This technology will offer our customers a rich, immersive and responsive visualisation inside their cars, which not only provides an innovative experience for the driver, but for passengers, too. The interactive design and high-resolution graphics, which function in real time, will provide a fresh and modern motoring experience that is sure to entertain everyone in the car.

“We look forward to sharing this technology with our customers in our new, allelectric flagship model.” Volvo Cars has one of the most ambitious electrification plans in the automotive industry."

Final 20 cars revealed TO compete for the Lancaster Pride of Ownership title

From over 80 entries from private owners, the 20 finalists have been selected for their diversity, history and, in some cases, rarity.

Andrew Evanson, Senior Operations Manager of Lancaster Insurance, sponsors of the Pride of Ownership, said: “The display is firmly established as a fan favourite and it’s because you are always guaranteed to see some incredible classics and hear some special stories too, and this year has certainly not disappointed. The beauty of this competition really is that anyone, and their classic, can take home the trophy and we can’t wait to crown them in November.”

The oldest of the finalists is a 1938 Austin 10 Cambridge owned by Paddy Doherty while the youngest is Aaron Patel’s 1998 Bentley Turbo R. In between is a fantastic mix of ages with seven cars representing the swinging ‘60s including Adrian Liepins’ 1960 TVR Grantura, once called ‘the worse car he’d ever driven’ by the late Jim Clark OBE, and Ian Croft’s 1968 Lotus Elan, previously owned by racing driver Graham Hill.

Adrian Howells’ 1972 Aston Martin DBS V8, heralded as the World’s fastest saloon car when it was launched, will be joined by a

trio of classics from the disco era including Louise Barrett’s 1976 William Cyclo, believed to be only one of two in existence. The 1980s are covered by Stephen Cheape’s 1981 Ford Fiesta 950 Popular, Philip Egan’s quirky 1985 Honda Acty, David Roberts’ freshly restored 1985 Nissan Cherry, and Mick Jones’ original 1983 BMW 316 Baur Convertible.

There is tough competition from the ‘90s as Jamie Eglinton’s 1992

Rover Mini, Andrew Ray’s 1993 Vauxhall Nova GSi, and Lez Dix’s 1995 Ginetta G33 RV8, battle it out for the visitor votes. While all finalists receive a certificate, the winner and two runners up all receive trophies and a year’s free car insurance from Lancaster Insurance up to the value of £250 (T&C apply).

The overall winner will also be offered the chance to display their car at the next event held by the

organisers – as well as the obvious bragging rights. Previous winners include Jake Clappison’s 1979 Triumph Spitfire, Ted Brookes’ 1961 Morris Minor Million and Laura Godtschalk and her 1992 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet.

The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with discovery+, is scheduled to be held at Birmingham’s NEC from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November 2022.

Recorded live at the Barbican during last year’s London Jazz Festival, White Juju is award-winning British saxophonist and rapper Soweto Kinch’s powerful new work for jazz quartet and symphony orchestra, written in response to lockdown, BLM, British history and the culture wars.

The album, set for release in conjunction with LSO Live on December 3rd, highlights Kinch’s distinct approach to jazz and hip hop with classical music—drawing broad inspiration from European folklore, the African Diaspora and divisive national myths to create a uniquely contemporary tone poem.

A summer of racially-led police violence, the murder of Sarah Everard and discussions around ‘essential’ workers meant the nation was beginning to draw causal links between, racism, misogyny, class and environmental degradation.

This reassessment, contrasted starkly with government mismanagement, disinformation and a noisy and disorientating culture war—all provided rich inspiration for Kinch’s work, White Juju.

Towards the end of the first lockdown, Kinch visited Liverpool, Salford, Hull and Cardiff

Soweto Kinch responds to lockdown, BLM and British History on new album ‘White Juju’ feat London Symphony Orchestra

with a small group of musicians and dancers, staging a socially distanced version of The Black Peril as an online festival. As he walked the streets, he was struck by imperial emblems, flags and statues in these British port cities—innumerable mock Elgin marbles, Queen Victoria statues, Union Jacks and military monuments that, in the previous bustle of city life, went relatively unnoticed.

“It fascinates me how we’re all acquainted with an unspo-

ken architectural and symbolic language of power” says Kinch. “How do these monuments or myths affect how we see ourselves as a nation? Naming the piece White Juju deliberately inverted ideas of the ‘savage’ or primitive. Perhaps the bizarre fetishes and obsessions of a cult religion are more visible in modern Britain than third world countries.”

Through White Juju Soweto invites listeners to join him in poking fun at hypocrisies as he

confronts awkward truths about a nation, but also to feel the catharsis of being truly freed from a spell.

White Juju will be released digitally on Friday 2 December 2022 via all major streaming and download services and will be available to pre-order from Friday 4 November. Following the release of the digital album, White Juju will be made available on vinyl on Friday 14 April 2023 to coincide with Record Store Day on Saturday 15 April.

NOVEMBER Gig Listings

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

October 01 Boyzlife: 2022 (TH)

01 Ricky Ross: Short Stories Vol.2 (TH)

04 Calum Scott with Special Guest Mitch James (TH)

05 George Clarke’s Life in Amazing Architecture

06 Sheku Kanneh-Mason and the CBSO play Haydn

06 B:Classical 2022/23: Paul LewisSchubert Piano Sonatas: 1 (TH)

07-08 Henning Wehn: It'll All Come Out In The Wash (TH)

09 Ex Cathedra 2022/23 King for a Day: Music for Royal Occasions (TH)

09 Sir Bryn Terfel: Songs and Arias

10 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter 'Celebrating Black History Month' (TH)

10 An Evening with Uriah Heep

11 Essential 80s featuring Paul Young

11 Jongleurs Legends (TH)

15 One Last Dance: Celebrating Bhangra / Bollywood Music (TH)

15 Will Young

16 Brno Philharmonic Orchestra

17 The Proclaimers: Special Guest John Bramwell

18 Al Stewart with his band The Empty Pockets (TH)

19 Milton Jones: Milton Impossible (TH)

20 Howard Jones (TH)

Beth Nielsen Chapman: Crazytown Tour 2022 (TH)

21 Tom Chaplin

22 Amazing Bubble Man (TH)

22 Last Podcast on the Left (TH)

23 Tony Hadley: Live with an Orchestra

23 Soweto Gospel Choir present Freedom (TH)

24 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter (TH)

24 Sixties Gold 2022: The All Hits Show!

25 Organ Family Concert with Mie Berg (TH)

25 Disney's Hocus Pocus: Film plus Orchestra

25 Dr Richard Shepherd: 'Unnatural Causes' (TH)

26 Show of Hands with Miranda Sykes (TH)

26 Marc Almond

The Beat Announces Ranking Roger Hometown Memorial

Legendary British

Fronted by Roger’s son and vocalist Ranking Jnr, who performed and recorded with his late father for close to two decades, the evening will feature a full performance from the Birmingham trailblazers plus very special guests from the worlds of ska, reggae, and punk.

The Ranking Roger Memorial Show will offer fans and friends of the frontman a chance to remember the ‘Mirror in the Bathroom’ and ‘Hands Off She’s Mine’ vocalist – often described as ‘Birmingham’s first Black punk’ – and the influence and cultural impact Roger had

during over three decades in the international music business.

The line-up includes a number of special moments soon to be revealed by the band, along with a four-hour post-show DJ set from the Ranking Roger Sound System led by Howard Hall aka Double H, featuring previously unheard ‘dubs’ starring the late, great Ranking Roger.

Ranking Jnr said: “We feel that now is the right time to celebrate the legacy of my dad, my best friend, my mentor, the guy who taught me everything I know about the music industry, and the man I stood side by side with on stage for the last 20 years.”

Real name Roger Charlery, Ranking Roger – who joined The Beat in Birmingham in 1978 - passed away in 2019 after battling multiple brain tumours and lung cancer. He passed away at the age of just 56.

IT’S PANTOMIME TIME AT TELFORD THEATRE

This Christmas, Telford & Wrekin Council are delighted to announce Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs is coming to Telford Theatre from 8 December to 2 January.

Starring EastEnders and Dancing On Ice Winner – Sam Attwater as The Prince, back by popular demand, the hilarious –Ian Smith as Dame Dolly, comedy star – Carl Dutfield as Muddles, local favourite – Chloe Barlow as Snow White, 90s Pop Star ‘Lolly’ – Anna Kumble as The Wicked Queen and singing sensation –Sophie Jane Walters as Fairy Fortune.

The beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends from the enchanted forest can be seen as they attempt to defeat the evil Wicked Queen who is overcome with jealously when her magic mirror declares that Snow White is the fairest in all the land. Will Snow White meet her handsome Prince and live happily ever after? There’s only one way to find out… Councuollr Carolyn Healy, cabinet member for climate change, green spaces, natural and historic environment and cultural services, said: “You may have noticed that we have a new

name here at the theatre – Telford Theatre.

"We have been known as The Place for a number of years now. The decision to refresh the name

was based on feedback from the community and our ambition to host performances in locations outside of the main theatre building such as outdoor theatre in

Wellington and Telford Town Park taking our Telford Theatre name with us”.

band The Beat will celebrate the life of its late frontman and musical pioneer Ranking Roger with a special one-off evening of live music at The Mill, in Birmingham.