The Nubian Times 7th Edition by The Nubian Times/ TNT News

FREE Bad news sells. Good news inspires.

thenubiantimes.com

St Kitts and Nevis PM Visit’s Manchester

a chat with Cleopatra Higgins

Manchester’s Community Champs Are Boxing Clever

LOCAL NEWS PAGE 3

ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 10

SPORT PAGE 15

JUNE ‘13

Summer fete at stretford mall

clash of the Titans S VETERAN MP DIANE ABBOTT knows how to stand her ground on topics she’s passionate about. So too, does Manchester’s redoubtable Elouise Edwards, writes Yasin Chinembiri.

ut there were still raised eyebrows, however, when the two formidable ladies clashed at a conference at Manchester’s Metropolitan University (MMU). One delegate who was standing close by commented: “It got quite heated between Diane Abbott and Mrs Edwards. I thought the MP was very off-hand. It wasn’t nice.” Speaking afterwards, a sur-

prised Mrs Edwards, affectionately known to all as Mama E, said: “I didn’t agree with all that she was saying. I told her so and she didn’t like that. She refused to speak with me and was very dismissive.” Abbott, Labour’s Shadow Public Health Minister, and, famously maverick front bench performer, was the keynote speaker at MMU on the subject of raising educational aspirations in Manchester communities such

as Hulme. Speaking to a packed hall at the Geoffrey Manton Building, the member for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, said there was no more important issue than education. She said early intervention by higher education organisations, targeting children at 7 years old in primary schools, and having lecturers in schools once-aweek, were amongst strategies she proposed. “As a community, we must

have an articulated strategy, in order to end the culture of low expectations of our BME youth, whilst shaping their aspirations and plugging them into the big world of education,” she added. “Manchester’s local authorities should do more to support black teachers in the classroom and set specific targets to individual schools to raise black children’s achievement levels.”

Honor for Nana Bonsu, P12

tretford Mall was made so inviting – even the sun tried to crash its indoor summer fete. Stalls bursting at the seams with fairground-style games drew large crowds, and it didn’t take long for the mall to be transformed into a fun palace for children and adults alike. The sunshine day proved a boost for several charities who had stalls at the fete. Generous donations from visitors and shoppers were made to The Christie, Diabetes UK, Macmillan and Marie Curie. Mayor of Trafford, Coun Dylan Butt, pictured, delighted visitors on the day when he officially opened the proceedings. A delighted spokeswoman for The Christie said: “The fete

“Having a fete like this is a great idea. It not only encourages customers to come to the mall, it creates a lovely atmosphere for everyone.” has been a splendid day for us as a lot of donations came our way, which is brilliant as its going to such a good cause.” Several stores at the centre also enjoyed a steady stream of visits from people using the fete to do some shopping. A member of staff at WHSmith said: “Having a fete like this is a great idea. It not only encourages customers to come to the mall, it creates a lovely atmosphere for everyone.”

Aftha Ahmed

NEWS

BUSINESS LIFESTYLE SPORT

Hulme stages Party In The Park spectacular

Why after serving his community for nearly three decades Byron, 75, still has a dream

PAGE 3

PAGE 12

Aqua aerobics and you

PAGE 8

Refugee World Cup

PAGE 15

CONTENTS LIFESTYLE

LOCAL NEWS

8/9

ENTERTAINMENT

BUSINESS

10/11 SPORT

FASHION

JUNE ‘13

m o r f r e t A letEditor the

h. glad to see you holding The Nubian Times. That’s great. You see I’ve ony just parked myself in the chair marked. ‘Editor’, a position I’m proud to accept, and with the immense responsibility that goes with it. This is, of necessity, a short, note to say plenty within the confines of a small space. For that reason, allow me to share my truncated thoughts on what joining The Nubian Times means to me. TNT is a monthly publication aimed at the Black and Minority Ethnic communities (BME). By definition, that means it’s not for anyone outside that key demographic. Wrong. While the paper will, at all times, specifically seek to be a useful

resource for the BME gernerally, it doesn’t mean we ignore or seperate ourselves from the wider community. Personally speaking, I favour a down-to-earth way of doing things, not least because it saves time and reduces that chance of any misunderstanding. Equally, whoever TNT works with emphasis will always be based on professionalism, integrity, and respect. Ethical considerations will not be dodged or taken lightly. There will be no room for rumour, sensationalism,intrusion on privacy, or private grief. And, it is as important to set good standards of writing as the way we do things. So, thank you for picking up The Nubian Times today, and see you again soon.

Carl Palmer

IF YOU HAVE A STORY PLEASE GET IN TOUCH: PRESS OFFICE: (0161) 408 4116 ENQUIRIES: info@thenubiantimes.com

ADVERTISING: advertising@thenubiantimes.com

NEWS FEATURES: articles@thenubiantimes.com DISTRIBUTION: distribution@thenubiantimes.com

facebook.com/TheNubianTimes

twitter.com/Nubiantimes2

The Nubian Times is currently distributing 20,000 newspapers across Greater Manchester. The Nubian Times Print and Online has a total potential audience of over 80,000 people. VISIT: thenubiantimes.com EDITOR: Carl Palmer Layout: Martin Winters Photographer: Mark Campbell Disclaimer: The Nubian Times and thenubiantimes.com make sure to only use reliable sources and we try to verify all content as much as possible. We cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions. All details are believed to be correct at the time of printing. We recommend that readers check information with any venue about times and dates of events in advance. Readers are welcome to send photographs, letters and other content to The Nubian Times but we cannot guarantee they will be featured in the publication. The Nubian Times reserves the right to neither use submitted material in print and online publications or return it. The views and opinions expressed in advertisements do not reflect that of The Nubian Times. No part of this publication/ website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in anyform without prior written permission from The Nubian Times. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing.The Nubian Times - All Rights Reserved.

To reduce environmental impact, once finished please recycle this newspaper or pass it on to friends and family.

The Nubian Times Stockists & Distribution Points Moss Side

Hulme

The Whitswood Practice Alexandra Park Health Centre, 2 Whitswood Close, Manchester, M16 7AP Tel: 0161 226 3620 Or: 0844 151 341

Asda Superstore Hulme 100 Princess Road, St George’s, Manchester, M15 5AS. Tel: 0161 227 9367

Chicken Run - Yarburgh Street, Moss Side, Manchester, M16 8FJ. Tel: 0161 226 6714 JOBCENTRE PLUS - Alexandre Park, 91 Moss Lane East, Moss Side, Manchester, M15 5BJ Kath Locke Centre 123 Moss Lane, East Manchester, M15 5DD Telephone: 0161 455 0211

Stretford Tesco Metro - Chester Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 OZS. Barton Road Convenience Store 404 - 406, Barton Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 9RW

LEVENSHULME: Tesco - 998 Stockport Rd, Manchester, Lancashire, M19 3WN: 0845 671 9386

OLD TRAFFORD Grove News - Seymore Grove, Old trafford, Manchester, M16 OLH Firswood Super Saver - 88 Warwick Rd South, Old Trafford, M16 OHU

CITY SOUTH MANCHESTER HOUSING TRUST - Turing House, Archway 5, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5RL. Tel: 0161 227 1263 PEACE FM - St Mary’s Parsonage, Number 1 Parsonage Street, Manchester, M15 5WD WHALLEY RANGE METHODIST CHURCH 51 Withington Road, Manchester, M16 7EX

Whalley Range Tesco - 94A Withington Road, Manchester, M16 8FA. Tel: 0845 6757 107 The Co-operative Food - Withington Road, Whalley Range, Manchester M16 8EE.

City Centre Tesco - Northern Quarter, 12-24 Church Street, Manchester. Tel: 0161 839 8058

Didsbury Fuzzy Ed’s Playhouse , Parrswood Entertainment Centre Wilmslow Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M20 5PG Tel: 0161 445 6990

chorlton Metro Cafe - Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 9AN

thenubiantimes.com

LO C A L N E WS

JUNE ‘13

Who’s Reading

Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis Visits Manchester The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis was greeted with smiles and warm handshakes during a whistlestop visit to Manchester, writes Siobhan White.

he Right Honorable Dr Denzil Douglas, who has been in power for 17 years, was joined by his deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Earl Asim Martin, and other members of the cabinet, for a meeting with the Kittitian community in South Manchester. Organised by the Leeward Islands People’s Association (LIPA), the event took place at Whalley Range Methodist Church. The trip was part of a series of visits to various cities around the UK to tell of the positive developments currently taking place in St. Kitts & Nevis. The Prime Minister

took a great interest in The Nubian Times’ article about making Manchester Green as this is an initiative also being introduced on the sunny island. There was a great turnout at the event where the Prime Minister and his colleagues spoke proudly and passionately about things going on in St. Kitts. There is a ‘new economy’ that includes manufacturing as well as agriculture, offshore education services, the People Empowerment Programme and the Public Service Act. All of this means that there are now more jobs available as well as more money to go

“There is a ‘new economy’ that includes manufacturing as well as agriculture, offshore education services, the People Empowerment Programme and the Public Service Act.” around, improvements to schools and the opportunity for all islanders to own their homes rather than rent. The talk was concluded with a lively question and answer session where members of the audience expressed their concerns and views about St. Kittitians that live in the UK, but many assured the Prime Minister that they travel home regularly.

Hulme stages Party In The Park spectacular HOT! HOT! HOT! That was the verdict of the inaugural Party In The Park extravaganza in Hulme

ore than 1,000 revellers packed Asda car park for the festival-style event featuring performances from up and coming young talents. Cohosts Cleo Higgins and Mr Zip – two well known star names in the community – made sure the event went with a bang. Cleo, currently wowing TV audiences with her appearances on The Voice, and Mr Zip, whose “Where me keys, where me phone” rap had the whole country chanting the phrase after his Britain’s G o t Talent audition, were thrilled when the community came out in force to support the event. The artist that performed live on stage were Shaw Star Choir, Cleo, Mr Zip, ANT PHARM – SHOCKOUT STUDIO, ELISHA & MAL-

LIQUE – DJ’S, DJ SILVER, JAY ORCHAD, BUZZRAK, SISTER ELEMENTS, AJAH, DANIELLE, R-VERB NDEGE, SHO, SHANICE, SBD, LADYi CE,-PREMIAIRZ, JSKY,LISA BRIZZI, ANNA, SHOO SHOO BLACK, and JULIE E GORDON. A delighted Judith Shaw, founder of S H AW S TA R promotions, loved the loud applause and energetic community v i b e t h e event generated.

S h e said: “It was an amazing

success thanks to the fantastic crowd, and helped enormously with funding and sponsorship from local businesses and organizations.” They included Apex, Lounge 10, Peace Fm, Hire a Hero, Asda, BJ’s Caribbean Takeaways, Serco, Ace of Clubs and Cooper Williamson. Judith added: “I was really proud of all the people who worked to pull the event off, from the moment Cleo and I first had the idea. Big thanks too, to Cleo and Mr Zip, all the artists, and the SHAWSTAR management team, Akeim Mundell, Michelle Aaron and Miselo Kunda , plus the volunteers and everyone who supported the event.” * SHAW STAR management is planning to stage further events in the future and is currently inviting local artists and other professionals related to the music industry to get in touch. www.shawstarpromotions.com

ANNE CAMERON

Hate Crime Awareness Week 24th — 28th June 2013 Have you been a victim of Hate Crime? Tell us if you have suffered abuse or harassment incidents because of your race, religion or sex orientation.

To find out how to report incidents and tell us about your experience, call in to our office: Mosscare Housing Group, 101 Great Western Street, Moss Side, Manchester, M14 4AA Ring Angela on: 0161 226 4211

Email: saynotohatecrime.org.uk

t h is mont h s t h eme d issue : t h e el d erly

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

N AT I O N A L N E WS

JUNE ‘13

Helen Ndow - Moss Side’s hidden gem with plenty of sparkle BEAUTIFUL African-style sunsets are rare over Manchester – but Helen Ndow can see one every day if she likes.

e recently heard the reports of 81-yearold Gloria Foster, from Surrey, who died in hospital after her council care agency shut without replacement. Mrs Foster had reportedly been left for nine days without food, water and medication. The ‘R-word’ was sure to surface. That’s ‘R’ for Responsibility. The story of Mrs Foster serves as a reminder to those of us fortunate enough to have one, or both aged parents, that as we continue through our own adulthood, we all have a decision to make about our parents. Regardless of their circumstances, whether hospitalised or living in their own

home, we can choose to make everything about our parents care our business. Or we can choose to live our own lives and let our parents take care of themselves. Mrs Fosters’ neighbours were shocked at her treatment, but should there also have been some admission of their neglect? Could they have done something to help? Whatever the answer to those, is it right to look to others, to neighbours, hospitals, and a myriad of other authorities, and blame them when something goes wrong? My view is that we cannot continue to look to others and heap blame on them without holding ourselves to a higher

Who’s Reading

Are we all ignoring the duty of care for our elderly?

standard. In his final appearance in the House of Lords, the then Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams said: “A great deal of our culture is frenetically oriented towards youth – notably in entertainment and marketing. This is understandable up to a point: people want to put down markers for the future as they see it. “But its effect can be both to ignore the present reality of responsible, active people in older life, who are still participants in society, not passengers – and to encourage younger people to forget that they are ageing themselves, and that they will be in need of positive and hopeful models for their own later years.” We should all think long and hard about this tragic event. Do we, as Dr Williams says, become so self-obsessed that our ageing parents fall into the out of sight, out of mind category. No. While the visits you make may dwindle down, along with the health of your parents, it should always remain that it is our responsibility to support our elderly parents in every way, should the need arise.

jules jack

elen, 76, a gifted painter and author, just has to glance at her brilliant art work to be transported to the African plains and beyond. Her paintings of druid inspired pieces battle for space at her home in Moss Side with leopard prints and African carvings. She has more than 200 pieces of art work, but still finds time to design handmade cards and stage countless exhibitions. Said Helen: “I started painting after a pilgrimage to Stanstead, which, for those who don’t know, is like Mecca is to muslims, or Jerusalem to Christians. “I’m vice-president of the spiritualism centre in Manchester, and since I retired I’ve been very productive and had the most enjoyable life.” In 1994, Helen wrote a book entitled Shadows, detailing her extraordinary life. Married four-times, Helen explained: “Age 21, I married a British soldier and we divorced after 17

In June 2009, Jerri Gray - an African American mother from South Carolina, lost custody of her 14-year-old son, who weighed an incredible 555lbs, almost 40 stone.

N “My motto has always been: For goodness sake, have a go. Don’t let fear govern your life.” years. Then I married an Irishman I met in a pub. When he died I married his best friend.” When her third husband sadly passed away, Helen met her fourth and remaining partner. Smiling broadly, she said: “We met when I went to

Gambia on holiday. I met him in February and we married by May.” Helen, who says she had to grow up a “toughie” after losing her mother when she was just nine years old, said she hopes to sell some of her paintings – and won’t be stopping what she does anytime soon. Helen added: “My motto has always been: For goodness sake, have a go. Don’t let fear govern your life.”

Why care for BME elderly won’t get any better, says The Nubian Times writer Yasin Chinembiri

espite race equality legislation being in place for more than 30 years, the experience of BME people using socialcare services in Manchester is still alarmingly variable. BME individuals generally receive discrimination as a result of their ethnicity, both in the workplace and health service. For the elderly in particular, it is double discrimination on ethnicity and age grounds. Our elders, whose sweat contributed to the nation’s cherished global economic position, are left to drag their lives like a portable oxygen tank, as if their worth is no more than a faithful dog. Unfortunately, there’s no central register of how many of the BME elderly are in care homes in Manchester, meaning that any information about the possible number of members in the care homes within the area must rely on studies of distinct and identifiable populations (epidemiological surveys). If access to ethnic care services is to be adequately assessed, there’s a need for improved ethnic record

Does childhood obesity mean parental neglect?

keeping and monitoring. A recent study, funded by the European Regional Development Fund, was carried out by the Ethnic Help Forum (EHF) on South Asian elderly members. It sought to identify the gaps in service provision for BME elderly service users in Manchester, by questioning both staff and elderly service users (clients) from a number of care homes within the city. To say the findings were harrowing is an understatement, as 70 per cent of staff was unaware of the

services available to the clients, such as pharmacy services and statutory personal care packages. The remaining 30 per cent merely failed to pass information about services on to clients, which calls for more focus on the ‘information’. This alone is symptomatic of the categorical issues within care homes. Pertinently, care services need to be culturally sensitive to the clients’ needs to successfully bridge this gulf. A swelling of public sympathy and political glossy words that keep the moral dilemma at arm’s length, never address the issue. The government needs to create a transparent network for identifying, updating and exchanging local knowledge between care home staff and clients, plus a central repository of evidence on the effectiveness of minority care provision. With a small change in perspective, our government can make an enormous difference in re-framing the entire care system as something demonstrably different.

ow this is an extreme case, but with over a third of children in the UK classified as being overweight or obese, and with black children often considered to be more susceptible than others, we need to ask, are we neglecting our children’s long term health? July 2012 saw the launch of National Childhood Obesity Week. To coincide with this, Netmums published the following findings from a survey of 1,000 parents: Over a third felt that talking to

their child about weight might lower the child’s self-esteem. 72% of parents of an overweight or obese child said they found it difficult to help their child to stay healthy. Most attributed this to their child’s preference for foods high in fat and sugar. Is this an indication of neglect or examples of the struggle to raise children during tough economic conditions? Could fear and ignorance be getting in the way of good parenting or perhaps a complete lack of time to focus? Or, are we literally kill-

ing our children with kindness? Unfortunately, stable black family structures in the UK are either non-existent, or stretched to breaking point; where a single parent or both parents work long hours, at multiple jobs with often unsociable shifts, just to make ends meet. I don’t think Jerri Gray’s experience is an unfamiliar one. She was on her own with no support, living in an environment with an abundance of convenient, cheap food. Add to this the constant bombardment of signs, signals and adverts to eat more

and move less and the denouement is inevitably a family, and children, with extremely poor lifestyle habits. The risk factors for children who are overweight are now pretty scary. We are not just talking about damaged selfesteem, aesthetics and how kids look. We are also talking about the impact on their genes, the threat of chronic type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and cardiovascular problems at a very young age. So, what to do? The first step is to start talking to your children about being a healthy weight and size. Teach them to understand what this means and, importantly, be an example to them.

jules jack

I’m Just Malorie Blackman – A Black Woman Writer

alorie Blackman was born on 8th February 1962. While at school, she dreamed of being an English teacher but instead grew up to become a systems programmer. She earned a Higher National Certificate at Thames Polytechnic and is also a graduate of theNational Film and Television School. Blackman married her Scottish husband Neil in the 1990s and their daughter, Elizabeth was born in 1995. In her own words the author says: “I’m just Malorie Blackman – a black woman writer.” Her private school education was funded through a series of grants offered to her for her “exceptional writing” and her parents funded the rest of the fees

through a series of low-paid jobs. It was such experiences that helped to influence her first book, Not So Stupid, a collection of horror and science fiction stories foryoung adults, published in November 1990. Since then she has written more than fifty children’s books, including novels and short story collections as well as television scripts and a stage play. In total her work has won more than fifteen awards.

“Noughts and crosses is one of those games that nobody ever plays after childhood, because nobody ever wins...”. Blackman’s television scripts include episodes of the longrunning, children’s drama Byker Grove, as well as television adaptations of her novels Whizziwig and Pig-Heart Boy. An indication of her international appeal comes with the fact that her books have been translated into over fifteen different languages. One of her most notable works is the award-winning

Noughts & Crosses series, which explores themes of love, racism and violence, set against the backdrop of a fictional dystopia. Explaining her choice of title, in a 2007 interview for the BBC’s Blast website, Blackman said Noughts and Crosses is: “...one of those games that nobody ever plays after child-

hood, because nobody ever wins...”. In an interview for The Times, Blackman said that before writing Noughts & Crosses her protagonists’ ethnicities were never central to the plots of her books: “I wanted to show black children just getting on with their lives, having adventures, and solving their dilemmas, like the characters in all the books I read as a child.”

The Times Journalist Amanda Craig once speculated about why the Noughts & Crosses series was not, for a long time, published in the United States, saying: “Although there was considerable interest, 9/11 killed off the possibility of publishing any book describing what might drive someone to become a terrorist.”

hanna charles

Work for Nubian Enterprise Ltd are seeking a driven Sales Agent for The Nubian Times Print & Online News Publication (This is a self employed position.) This opportunity gives the right person the chance to work for this Manchester based newspaper and be part of a successful and professional business. You will have the opportunity to earn an excellent income with uncapped commission structure. You will be calling on small, medium & large business, educational establishments, health centers introducing them to The Nubian Times & our advertising options. Full training is given.

Role dimension: Ability to work on own initiative, Self manage, Excellent commission structure, Driver with own vehicle preferred. Strengths required: Motivated, Mechanically Minded, Organized, Presentable, Self starter, Excellent self awareness, Explain issues clearly, Generate sales via influencing skills, Plan time effectively, Never give up, Builds rapport easily at all levels, Confident approach, Can operate within defined framework or regulatory guidelines. We would consider candidates with a variety of backgrounds as long as you have very good people skills and are motivate to succeed we can train the rest!

Other posts available: Writers / Journalists, Researchers, Online Web Management (Wordpress Systems), Social Media Support (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn).

Please apply by Email to info@thenubiantimes.com with a brief CV telling us why you would be a valuable member of The Nubian team.

SPEA K ERS CORNER

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

S P E AKE R S CO R N E R

JUNE ‘13

Celebrating Inspirational Women

Who’s Reading

Poetry Corner Gardens We seem to have travelled past christenings jumped over the bridge of weddings and moved in with funerals we seem to have packed a case full of yearnings stomped on possibilities drifted along with wishful thinking we seem to have entered the gate of tomorrow without really experiencing yesterday and sadly waving goodbye to our travelling companions at an alarming rate.

by Maxine Campbell Do you have a passion for poetry? If you want to see your work in The Nubian Times send it in to articles@thenubiantimes.com

Debatable Issues

Who’s Reading

Diary of an Angry Black teacher -

‘Does experience count for nothing? ’

Visit our facebook page to join the debate facebook.com/thenubiantimes If there is a pressing issue that you think needs debating, let us know at info@thenubiantimes.com

Black youth, terrorism and the moral blindness, Lee Jasper looks behind the horror of Woolwich

IR ALEX Ferguson has just left Manchester United. Fergie’s departure, the Premiership’s most successful manager, saddens me. Not because I care about Manchester United or the success of English football (Crystal Palace fans do not care whichever top flight club signs the latest European wunderkind). No, my melancholy stems from the fact there are few role models, or people in prominent positions that are, well, old. When I first began teaching I was the youngest teacher for many years. I was in awe of the

members of staff who could walk around the school with confidence, and reassurance that the students would not win! That whatever the ‘ terrors’ did, the teacher had seen it before and nothing could disrupt their assured stride. Now the face of education is different. Schools are now full of young, arrogant colleagues who aim to change education by inventing new ways to teach our children. Let me illustrate my point. At my previous academy a young assistant head (aged about 26) gave an inset for two hours on turning homework into home

Growing Pains

Why so much hatred towards Islam?

he body is a beautiful thing - a blank canvas to be sculpted and shaped as you see fit. Or is it? Women tend to be more openly affected by the pursuit of excellence, forever wanting the body of some celebrity who’s pictures has probably been enhanced by little more than the touch of a computer. How many times have you noticed the wandering eyes of young girls and women, surveying the figures of a ‘perfect’ woman, before

Education needs to value staff who knows how to get the best out of children, not staff who would be better suited to The Apprentice. learning. One day, this same teacher ran frantically into my office for help dealing with a group of primary school children who were visiting the school with their parents. The problem? The visitors, both parents and children, weren’t listening to a word she was saying. Now, I say it’s not her fault. That should rest with the interview panel who employed

looking downcast at their own bodies? The twisted idea of physical perfection may stem from the poster of the tall, slender being who’s unblemished limbs seem to go on forever. Or, the rich and famous, whether on catwalks, red carpets, or in glossy magazines, who always seem to look great. And, don’t get me started on the lengths people will go to. Losing a few pounds in weight here, buying pricey make-up there, and, both male and fe male trouping daily to the gym in pursuit of elegance and finesse. Hmm, to think

her. Yes, the same panel that valued her ‘ideas’ more than her experience. Education is full of these naïve youngsters. They take models of education from America and implement them in our schools and when there isn’t anything new to introduce they try to reinvent old archaic methods (Google core knowledge sequence). Education needs to value staff who knows how to get the best out of children, not staff who would be better suited to The Apprentice.

Mr. L

all of this is done for the silent approval of strangers doubtless battling their own self-image issues. Stereotypes are glorified, convincing people that they too can achieve the same amazing features. Then there’s the comments you don’t want to hear: ‘She’d be pretty if she was slimmer”. Ouch! Or, ‘He’s all right, but he’s too skinny.’ Really! So what’s the answer for the image conscious? Quite simply, love who you are. Boys, stop messing with your older brother’s weights; and girls, accept and cherish who you are – imperfections and all.

Newayne Forrester

atching the news over the last couple of days, I was struck by a number of issues that I think are important. The overwhelming majority of the news has focused on analysing the story from the perspective of terrorism and utilising the usual array of largely white and Asian Muslim experts and representatives. Given the men themselves are black and of Nigerian origin this struck me as slightly odd. The dominant news narrative seems to almost wish they had been Asian and in that desire has simply labelled them ‘Muslim’ fitting them in to a convenient and stereotypical category that reflects and allows for simplistic and naive commentary. Of course what is missing from the debate and in some sense, is the huge elephant in the room, is the fact that these young men are African, they are black British men and largely unknown to many they are part of the largest single ethnic minority group in London according to the 2011 census. That is an important aspect of this story, and I will tell why I think so. The fact is that the real

lived experience of British black communities suffering the damaging effects of societal racism is a narrative that is largely missing from the mainstream British news agenda and completely absent from the Government’s agenda. I am not for one moment seeking to suggest, in any way, shape or form, that these grotesque murderous act are justified. I am, however, suggesting that a minority of young black British people, be they of African or Caribbean descent, many of whom suffer deep economic exclusion, deep political marginalisation, and acute social demonisation from wider society, can be

particularly susceptible to both violent criminality and sometimes, radical conversion by religious fanatics. If as a society we are to tackle some of the root causes of violent extremism, and criminality, we will need to tackle both our moral duplicity home and abroad, but also begin offer real opportunity and hope to many more of our young men and women, Black and white.

*Lee Jasper is the former Senior Policy Advisor on Equalities for the Mayor of Greater London. An unabridged version of this article can be found on the Operation Black Vote website.

This month’s poem comes from 7 year old, Kayla Adams, from Moston

Roses are red, violets are blue, I love my mummy, and my daddy too.

Fancy seeing yourself or your school’s creative writing in the next edition of The Nubian Times? Then send your work into info@thenubiantimes.com

Ms.Vanquish

Each month, our mystery author, tackles important issues through the medium of story telling.

Decisions “I’m so nervous, has it changed yet?” said Kassy. “Give it a few more minutes” replies Sheree. “Oh wait a minute its changing I can see it Sheree.” Sheree shows Kassy. “Oh my god” said Kassy. “I knew it, I’m pregnant. I need to phone him” shouted Kassy. “Don’t you think it’s better to tell him face to face” said Sheree. “I can’t he’s away for a month.” “Oh my god Kassy, are you serious?” “Pass me my phone Sheree.” Kassy phones her boyfriend Sean. “Hi Boo, are you alone?” “Yes, whats wrong baby” replies Sean. Kassy bursts into tears, while Sheree sits rubbing her back. “It’s okay tell him” Sheree says reassuringly. “Sean…I’m pregnant” says Kassy. “WHAT?! Are you sure?” he reply’s in shock “stop crying Kassy its okay just tell me when did you find out?” “Just now” Kassy sobs. “How far gone are you?” “Well you do the maths you left in September.” “So what we going to do?” says Sean. “id love for us to have a baby but it’s just not going to work Sean.” “So what you saying you’re going to have an abortion?” “Mmmm hmmmm ill find out the details book the dates, im not going through this on my own you have to fly over.” “okay babe let me know” replies Sean “and I’ll book the earliest possible flight.” Kassy and Sean are at the abortion clinic 3 weeks later. “Hello if you could book in and I could take your details. Here’s a form for you to complete take a seat and let me know when you’ve finished” says the receptionist. Kassy and Sean fill out the form and at the same time feel extremely nervous. “Sean I’m scared” whispers Kassy.

“You’ll be fine” says Sean, “I’m here for you, you can do this it’s for the best anyway” “eurhh Miss Daniels please.” Kassy and Sean stand up. “Can you just follow me?” Kassy and Sean are led into a private room with a qualified nurse. “Kassy isn’t it” asks the nurse. “That’s right” she replies. “Well what were going to do first is to give you a scan to see how far you are, then we’ll take it from there okay?” “Okay” replies Kassy nervously. “If you’d just like to lay on the bed and pull your top up to expose your tummy.” The nurse puts gel on Kassys tummy. “It might be a little bit cold” explains the nurse. Kassy lays on the bed holding Sean’s hand feeling petrified. “by the looks of the scan I would say your about 12 weeks.” At that point Sean jumps up. “Can I have a look can I see?” Sean shouts. The nurse looks at him a little bit confused but agrees and turns the monitor towards him. Complete silience falls across the room as Sean stares at the monitor. Kassy stares at Sean “Baby?” she says in a soft voice. Sean doesn’t respond. “SEAN!” she shouts with tears in her eyes. “Narrr narrr narrr man, I can’t do this” “What?” says Kassy. “This is not happening” he says. “Sean you know it’s impossible for us to have a baby right now.” “No its not” Sean starts to get tissue from the side to rub the gel off Kassy’s tummy “get up” he says dragging her at the same time pulling her top down.

To read more, please continue online. www.thenubiantimes.com

LIFEST YLE

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

L I F E S T YL E

JUNE ‘13

cabbage with salted cod fish, plANTAIN AND BOILED RICE

Ingredients: Cabbage Greens - Chopped Thyme, 3 Cloves of Garlic 3 Tablespoon coconut milk 3 Tablespoon olive oil

1 Onion & Spring Onion - Chopped Salted Cod Fish - Soaked Overnight TOMATO & SCOTCH BONNETT PEPPER - CHOPPED 1 PLANTAIN 1 CUP OF WILD RICE

Directions: Sauté Onion and spring onion, scotch bonnet pepper, garlic tomato and thyme in the olive oil until translucent. Add the coconut milk and cabbage, cover and leave to steam for 20/30minutes. Brush the frying pan with a little olive oil, cut the plantain into diagonal shapes and fry and each side for 3 minutes. Boil the wild rice and serve with a green salad. Beverly Ogle Young

Ask your Pharmacist:

Arthritis A rthritis is a condition that affects people regardless of age, sex or race, however it is more common in the elderly population. It causes inflammation and pain within a joint with around 10 million people in the UK suffering with one form or another. Two of the main types include Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). OA is the most common form of arthritis, with around 8.5million people affected and often develops in those over 50. The connective tissue between bones wastes away which leads to painful bone on bone rubbing in joints such as those found in the hands, spine, knees and hips. RA is less common but a more severe form of the condition, and

starts when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the joints leading to swelling, pain, reduction in movement and breakdown of the connective tissue once again. RA is said to affect roughly 400,000 people in the UK and usually develops between the ages of 40-50 years old, with women three times more likely to be affected than men. The most common symptoms of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis include; • Inflammation around joints • Joint pain, tenderness and stiffness • Restricted movement

Who’s Reading

Recipe:

workout with vici

although the muscles work harder the risks of injury is much less.

qua Aerobics is one of those age old exercise classes that is generally misunderstood. The name alone creates mental images of older women in floral swimming hats, floating in the water while gabbing and ignoring the instructor’s every word. But, believe me, in recent years it has been injected with newly trained adventurous instructors with new music, new styles, even dance moves in the water. Participants come to work out and improve fitness. Water is an amazing natural equaliser, and its not unknown to see men and women in their eighties, alongside teens and everyone in between. The benefits of aqua exercise for older participants, as opposed to say, a brisk walk, is that the exercises are much less stressful on your joints due to the buoyancy deep water training allows. Resistance of water is greater than that of air, so stamina, balance, strength and suppleness improves quickly. The body is supported by the water so it’s perfect for older people with mo bility issues, and,

of joints • Warmth/redness of skin above affected joint • Weakness and muscle wasting If you experience any of these symptoms, then go and see your local pharmacist for some immediate pain relief and make an appointment to see the doctor to discuss long term control. Medication can relieve the symptoms of arthritis, but there are no cures only help with slowing the progression of the condition. OA can be relieved with simple painkillers like as Paracetamol, antiinflammatory medication such as ibuprofen (both in tablet and gel form) and even steroids can be prescribed. Once again, make sure you consult your pharmacist or doctor

“It’s a fantastic workout, and we’re not treated like we’re old but just the same as everyone else. I teach “aqucise” to house music at Manchester Aquatic Centre and Moss Side Leisure Centre, and the classes are always busy. Sisters Barbara and Whilma, from Manchester, are two who have given it a try. Said Barbara: “It’s a fantastic workout, and we’re not treated like we’re old but just the same as everyone else. Our fitness is increasing, and because we’re no longer teens it doesn’t mean we no longer want to feel better about our bodies. Aqua aerobics helps with joint stiffness - and you just feel so much better afterwards.’’ Manchester City Council provide £1 aqua sessions at local leisure centres. visit www. manchester.gov.uk or, better still, visit your local pools.

Victoria Thompson

before taking any medication. RA treatments focus solely on slowing disease progression and so painkillers, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS), regular physical exercise and physiotherapy will all be used together. As well as drugs, there are a number of complimentary medicines that can be used to help arthritis sufferers. These include cod liver oil and glucosamine sulphate taken on a regular basis. When I complete medication reviews with my patients, I find a lot of them take these items and find that they can help in conjunction with what the doctor prescribes. If you find you are struggling with arthritis and would like more information, then groups such as Arthritis research UK and Arthritis Care can offer more advice, support and information.

Adedayo Titiloye MPharm

Gardening tips for the elderly

s we get older, gardening becomes more difficult, so we have to try and change our outlook to life. Try to obtain a garden that is more manageable. Perhaps you could try a container garden, or even raising beds to make life a little bit easier for ourselves. Growing your own fruit and vegetables can be extremely rewarding, very satisfying - and much tastier. Now, as we enter our twilight years, gardening

becomes more arduous in bad weather, so it’s important to rethink the way we tackle the gardening. If you have always had a garden then of course it’s important that you carry on enjoying it. Grow the fruit and vegetables that you enjoy eating. You can also grow flowers and herbs in containers, so don’t be put off by change in your circumstances. Do what you can manage and really enjoy the fruits of your labour.

claire meadows

CROSSWORD Across 1. Punch (3) 4. Not him, ____. (3) 7. A method of detecting distant objects and determining their position, velocity, or other characteristics by analysis of very high frequency radio waves reflected from their surfaces. (5) 12. Mother of Mufasa and Scar (Film: The Lion King) (3) 13. Actress ____ Gardner (3) 14. Run away to wed (5) 15. Man’s address (3) 16. Zig __ (3) 17. Scene (5) 18. National forest in Alabama USA (9) 21. Poetic before (3) 22. Drives in (6) 26. Traveler (5) 29. Once around the track (3) 30. Photo (3) 31. On top of (4) 32. Motor transportation (3) 33. Goddess (4) 34. Reading room (3) 35. Hot __ Lincoln (3) 36. One that races or takes part

in a race. (5) 37. Protective coating on teeth (6) 38. To put in a specified position; place (3) 39. Dale or Dale Jr. (9) 44. Type of slug (5) 48. “Good” in Japanese (3) 49. Spoon bender, “___ Geller” (3) 50. “Filthy” profits (5) 51. Lapse (3) 52. Blue (emotion) (3) 53. Bet (5) 54. Observe (3) 55. An organ of vision or of light sensitivity (3)

9. __ and don’ts (3) 10. Likely (3) 11. Actor Stephen _____ of The Crying Game (3) 19. Incline (4) 20. First or second ______, mechanism to change the speed of a vehicle. (4) 23. Heroic (4) 24. Elegantly jump into swimming pool (4) 25. Scratch, “Permanent ______” (4) 26. Exposed body (4) 27. Opposite to Closed (4) 28. Famous portrait “__ Lisa” (4) 29. Young boy (4) 32. Carbonated drink containing caffeine, “ Coke a _____” (4) Down 33. Information (4) 1. Honorable and fair in one’s 35. Lurched (6) dealings and actions: 36. Employ again (6) “a ____ruler”. (4) 38. Sleep soundly, Loudly (5) 2. Operatic solo (4) 40. Cereal grasses (4) 3. A knot, lump, or slub in yarn 41. Scam (4) or cloth. (4) 42. British wagon(4) 4. Danger (6) 43. Onetime Rudd sponsor (4) 5. Dodge (5) 44. Kidnappers of P. Hearst (3) 6. Anger (4) 45. Holy woman (3) 7. Overhaul (6) 46. Take action. (3) 8. World Champion Boxer, 47. Anger (3) “The Greatest” (3)

NO wonder the UK is the ‘Fat Man’ of Europe. According to the World Health Organisation, our waistlines are bulging faster than ever before. And, obesity is reportedly costing the NHS at least £4 billion a year, rising to an estimated £6 billion by 2015, writes Yasin Chinembiri.

LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS: ACROSS: 2. Amina; 4. Hulme; 6. Ninety Six, 7. Personal; 9. Sixty Five; 11. Alistair; 12. Richard, 14. Rusholme; 16. Ardwick; 18. Benefit; 19. Luthfur DOWN: 1. Walters; 3. Elaine; 5. Universal Credit; 8. Bedroom; 10. Sameem; 13. Deyika; 15. Labour; 17. Reform

TNT’S RECOMMENDED READ’S The Five People You Meet in Heaven

by Mitch Albom Review by Zaia Montague

“This is the greatest gift God can give you: to understand what happened in your life. To have it explained. It is the peace you have been searching for.” This is just one of the many incredible quotes from this great read. It’s not often that we read a book that comforts our understanding of life after death. The book opens with the protagonist, Eddie, only minutes away from his own death. Through the five people he meets in heaven, he learns valuable lessons about why he suffered so much pain throughout his existence, and soon realises that the things in his life that he found insignificant are certainly significant in death. The wonderful lessons in this book are beautifully told, and enable us to realise that we all make an impact no matter how small. This is a simple and comforting read which questions the meaning of life, and life after death. It’s a book that’ll bring a tear to your eye, and one that you’ll want to share with others.

Americanah

by Chimamanda Review by Kira Dion

Chimamanda is a Nigerian author who has written several critically acclaimed novels, such as ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ and ‘Purple Hibiscus’, with the former winning the 2007 Orange Prize for fiction. Chimamanda writes about things which other authors have been afraid to, which is the political struggles that Africans have had to face whilst living in another country. This award winning author brings us the story of Obinze and Imfemlu, who fall into a commanding love, which finds them hungry for more information on each other. You feel the deep love that these two characters share, but with the course of true love never running smoothly they are eventually separated. Chimamanda charts their lives intensely, and we see all the humiliating indignities they face in order to live their lives.

Some reasons why our waistlines rapidly bulging

Mom & Me & Mom

by Maya Angelou Review by Hermione Gee

Known globally as the Renaissance woman, Maya Angelou once again narrates her life through another book which is set to become another worldwide success. This is not just another book about her extraordinary life, but one which details a very special relationship - the unique one with her mother, which shaped her future and made her the great woman she is today. Maya provokes us to listen, and she has a way of stimulating our minds to truly understand the essence of her life.

Obesity is the medical condition of being grossly overweight, or being extremely fat, carrying health risks such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Numerous strategies have been used or proposed to help curb soaring obesity rates globally, with none proving successful. Denmark and Hungary slapped a ‘fat tax’ on foods containing more than 2.3% saturated fat, only for people to go elsewhere to buy their food. Is it because we’ve become an office-work based society, as opposed to doing the heavy manual work or housework of yesteryear? Or, could it be couch-potato lifestyles allied to supermarkets bulging with an abundance of tempting food at low prices, that has contributed to this crisis? The growth of the internet too, has encouraged us to do our grocery shopping online, whilst our teenagers are transfixed on mobile devices and computer games, with little or no physical activity involved. Hence, the clear line between low levels of physical activity, poor diet and obesity, confirms the World Health Organisation.

ENTERTAINMENT

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

The Voices Own, Cleopatra Higgins HARD to believe that Cleopatra Higgins nearly didn’t make it through the first stage of TV’s The Voice – because she was scared.

But that’s history now. Cleo, who chose to be on will.i.am’s team in the blind auditions, later won the competition’s Battle round when will.i.am chose t o keep Cleo over duo Nu-tarna. There was one question TNT was dying to ask? Why will.i.am? In an interview with DJ Drizz for TNT-TV, Cleo said: “Everyone thought I was going to pick Jessie, but I wasn’t prepared for them all turning around. I couldn’t believe it. I suddenly thought, ‘wait, I’m in control of who I pick’.” Suffice to say she’s happy with her chosen mentor, will.i.am. “Oh

yes, ecstatic. He’s been very supportive, especially behind the scenes.” *Keep a lookout for your TNT, so we can keep you up to date with her progress. Also, visit www.thenubiantimes. com ,Twitter @nubiantimes2, Facebook The Nubian Times, and keep an eye out for when the launch of The Nubian Times’ TnT-TV, featuring an exclusive interview with Cleo.

hannah charles

What’s on in june… Concerts KRS One + Immortal technique

The HMV Ritz, Manchester Thursday 13th June 7pm. Tickets £20/£35 VIP

lisa standsfield

Lowry Theatre, Manchester Saturday 15th June Rochdale soul lass makes a special return to her home city for one night only, singing classic like “Been around the world” and “Right Time”. 8pm. Tickets £27.50 - £99.00

rhianna

M.E.N Arena, Manchester 12th - 13th June

Theatre Reginald D Hunter

Return of Barbados biggest star Rihanna plays two sold out gig performing all her hit singles. From “Umbrella”, “Whats my name” and “Disturbia”. 7.30pm. Tickets £35 - £65.00

Lowry Theatre, Manchester Thursday 11th April

switch

A Wondrous Place

Gorilla Every Monday Bass - Hip Hop - House Garage 11pm. Tickets £5.

Who’s Reading

es, Cleo, who recorded two hit duets with tenor Russell Watson. The same Cleo who headlined the Young Voices in Concert tour, performing in front of 15,000 at the Manchester Arena, and alongside nearly 7 , 0 0 0 choir members to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest choir assembled in the UK. Her surprise confession was more than expected when The Nubian Times caught up with a chatty Cleo ahead of her appearance in the knock-out stage of The Voice UK. Making herself comfortable at Chorlton’s Caribbean takeaway, Jerk Junction, Cleo explained: “When my manager approached me about The Voice, I didn’t want to do it. I actually missed my first production interview in Manchester because I was scared about putting myself out there.”

JUNE ‘13

One man controversial comedian Reginald D Hunter comes to the Lowry for his one man show. 8pm. Tickets £21.

Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Tues 11th - Sat 22nd June One man controversial comedian Reginald D Hunter

R.I.O or Rio?

restige Glamour is a sexy RnB, House, Bashment and Club Classics night out every first Friday of the month, currently being held at One Central night club, city centre Manchester.

champagne and strawberries on early entry. Plus, birthday/ anniversary/graduation free tables - and cakes.” *Company

promotion name is Prestige events and classic entertainment. Glist email is info@prestigeglamour.net

Julia sky

“We wanted people to come out looking stylish and classy but wanted them to listen to good music.” Prestige Glamour is one of Manchester’s most popular club nights as it has a selection of classic and upcoming DJ’s thrashing out the very best in RnB and Bashment. One Central is one of a very few night clubs in city centre throwing this specialist musical blends for music connoisseurs and novices alike. Marvin English, aka DJ Silva, and Jason McKenzie, aka Dj Ganzi, launched Prestige Glamour in February last year. Dj Silva explains: “It was a joint idea between anzi and myself, because we wanted people to come out looking stylish and classy but wanted them to listen to good music in a fun environment at the same time. “We wanted to give club goers an incentive to come and party, such as the free

Whether its’s R.I.O. or RIO, doesn’t really matter. At 27, musician Rio Nelson is set to be the next big thing to come out of Manchester, writes TNT’s Anne Cameron. The name R.I.O comes from the days he was of mc’ing youth clubs back in the day. Soon, he’ll be sharing the spotlight with the likes of Misha B, Mr Zip and Cleopatra Higgins, who have all recently graced the national entertainments scene. When asked to describe himself, there’s no hesitation: “I’m a full time musician, mentoring as well, and empowering young kids. I used to work with Unity Radio and enjoyed taking kids from the local area like Moss Side and Longsight.

Club Nights Reggae Thursday

Deaf Institute, Manchester Every Thursday Weekly reggae night playing the best in roots reggae, ska and dance hall. 10pm- Late. FREE admission.

Cuban Salsa Jams

Revolucion De Cuba, Manchester

Wretch 32 drops by the studio

Flush UK

anchester has been buzzing since filming started on the first feature film from Write Dreams Production, called “Family Ties”, starring models, Devarnio Connolly and Nathan Hall, among other top Manchester actors.

The Nubian Times’ Edwin Sinclair checks out all the main events in June. comes to the Lowry for his one man show. 8pm. Tickets £21.

“I’d help structure a song with them and give them as much freedom with their own musical talent as I could. Then after that I’d get them to perform at City’s ground and get a certificate. At my headline concert I have one of the young people as a supporting act.” Talking of football, Rio has also done coaching, which, he says, helps build self esteem and confidence in a person. Was he any good at the beautiful game? ‘Very good, Conference level,” he grins. “I did a trial for Manchester City but, when nearly there, I had to make a decision - football or music.’ Still, he didn’t lose all contact with the higher echelons of football. Rio had ex-Manchester City

star Mario Balotelli, and United’s Rio Ferdinand feature in a video. Growing up in Moss Side, I can’t help but wonder what he thinks of his achievements. ‘I’ll be totally honest with you,” he says seriously. “I nearly slipped. Growing up in Moss Side, I can’t help but wonder what he thinks of his achievements. ‘I’ll be totally honest with you,” he says seriously. “I nearly slipped. But I always had a good upbringing. I believe it was just a phase. Then again, for some kids the only option is the streets.’ And now? Rio Nelson is an independent artist, managing himself. He said “I’m headlining my own shows and this is my defining moment. Concert: ‘ Bottom to the Top’, Saturday 22nd June at Dry Live, Oldham Street, Manchester.

Wednesday 12th June Weekly Cuban and salsa night with dance classes from 7pm then after Cuban club night until 3am.

Uk garage & House summer jams

Antwerp Mansion, Manchester

Saturday 15th June A night of pure uk garage and funky house with local Manchester Dj’s spinning the grooves. 9pm - 4am. Tickets £10.

ORCHESTRA

The film follows two brothers who are left devastated when after a normal day at college, their lives change forever. After witnessing the tragic murder of both their parents, Darius and Leon are thrust into a new life of uncertainty and fear. With the prospect of being taken into care, the orphans runaway to more familiar surroundings, to live with a family member who they believe they can trust. Filming began early April in

EXODUS LIVE

The Manchester International Roots Orchestra, Studio 30 Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), Manchester Sat 22nd June at RNCM. A unique musical collaboration between refugee and other culturally diverse musicians, and Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) students. Tickets: £6 Concessions: £4

US ON TWITTER

@nubiantimes2

“Two brothers are left devastated after witnessing the tragic murder of their parents.” Manchester, with cast and crew already on location in Deansgate and Rusholme. Working in close partnership with Manchester City Council, other areas of the

city have been slated to be filmed, as well over an expected 14 day period, leaving Manchester currently brimming with activity. Visitors to the city would have seen the crew and cast in action as they filmed key scenes at a warehouse, local park and training centre. The filming schedule includes several different locations in and around the district, ranging from green spaces to private houses in Moss Side. With filming also taking place at Issano’s Chicken Shop, the owner said, smiling: “Of course, I feel

that Northenden is a top location in the city, and I couldn’t be happier they decided to film here.” Co-producer John Paul, said: “I want to thank them for their patience and understanding. I know it’s not easy for someone to allow cast and crew free reign over an establishment.” For more information and updates please follow: Twitter.com/FamilyTiesDrama And like us on FacebookFacebook.com/FamilyTiesUKDRAMA

The new don of Hip Hop, Jermaine Scott, A.K.A Wretch 32, dropped by the Unity Radio 92.8FM studio this week, joining Jay Diamond on Magificent Mornings. Wretch has been away for a while but is now back and better than ever. With his new single ‘Blackout’, featuring Shakka, coming out on May 12th, Wretch discusses the meaning behind the track: “You know when you’re at that point, when you’re having a night out and you close your eyes, and it just feels like the best thing ever. “You don’t want to open your eyes, you don’t want them to turn that light on at the end of the night.” The single is taken from his forthcoming album with Ministry of Sound, which is yet to have a release date confirmed. Although when asked about the release of his album Wretch replied: “We’re looking at August, but it’s mad sticking to release dates in this day and age, so I never put a date on anything.” Other major news for Wretch includes the announcement that he will be performing at

Manchester’s very own Parklife festival at Heaton Park this summer. With his up-coming album packed full of feel good, up-beat tracks, Wretch talks about his excitement towards playing them out over the summer: “When I first started making music, I never thought I’d be playing these massive festivals. I just can’t wait to get back out there”. On the topic of Manchester, Jay Diamond asks London-born Wretch, what he makes of the city: “Yeah, I like many, man. It’s a good raving scene and a good scene to perform in. We always have a blast here, good vibes” Although still working on the album, his new single ‘Blackout’ is now available for pre-order on iTunes. For more Wretch 32 updates head over to www. wretch32.com or to listen back to the full interview with Jay Diamond, go to: www.unityradio.fm. Follow us on; Twitter @unityradiofm or join us on; Facebook.com/officialunityradio

BUSINESS

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

We at the Heritage Lottery Fund are delighted to be supporting this project, run by volunteers, that will empower young people to explore and celebrate the life and work of Beresford Edwards ‘Chief Nana Bonsu Sara Hilton, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund North West, commented: “We at the Heritage Lottery Fund are delighted to be supporting this project, run by

supermarkets started opening up all over the place. The market changed so we had to diversify and change with it.” Mr Gibbs, who has two children from his first marriage, wed his current wife, Mary, in 1970, and just a few minutes in his sparkling company shows why he’s a hugely popular member of the community he’s served outstandingly for

“We had to change from the hardware store to selling food when the supermarkets started opening up all over the place.” nearly three decades. Originally from Jamaica, Mr

volunteers, that will empower young people to explore and celebrate the life and work of Beresford Edwards ‘Chief Nana Bonsu’, one of the founding fathers of the African Caribbean community in Manchester.” Known variously as Baba Berry, Chief Nana Bonsu (the honorary title conferred on him by African Mancunians), was of huge importance to Britain’s African community, especially in Manchester, which became his home. He died in his native country Guyana in 2003. The oral history project will highlight his role in initiatives such as the Campaign Against Racial Discrimination, social justice, equal opportunities, and his struggles with racism and discrimination.

Gibb says he’s too old to go back for good, but he still has a dream he’d love to fulfil. He said: “I’m too old to go back. I’m just too old. But I’d love to go home for say, six months. I’ve not been back to Jamaica since 1989, when mum died, so a trip sometime would be wonderful. Anne Cameron

WE’RE IN BUSINESS FOR YOUR BUSINESS! Free, secure, on-site parking 24/7 access Heat, light and power included Alarmed workspace/office Reception service Broadband/wireless access Units from 195 - 597 sq ft

He’s seen many changes, survived even more challenges – but has always come out smiling. Only a handful of residents

still remember the days when Mr Gibbs ran a hardware store on Princess Road, before switching to providing local residents daily with the Continental food they demanded, practically on their doorstep. So, it comes as a bit of a surprise to learn that far from winding down to well deserved retirement, it’s business

as usual for 75-year-old Mr Gibbs, a sprightly pensioner with a smile for everyone he meets. Rolling back the years, he recalled how he was forced to change course in business to stay afloat when times got hard. He said: “We had to change from the hardware store to selling food when the

70 Quenby Street, Hulme, Manchester M15 4HW

0161 839 3770

Only 1/2 from Ma mile nch City Cen ester tre Cornbro & o Metro Lin k k!

firmstart.co.uk

HERE 80,000 People

20,000 Newspapers

PRESENTS 1ST BIRTHDAY AWARDS CEREMONY Saturday 26th October 2013

Notice of Application for a Premises License LICENSING ACT 2003

Name of Applicant:

BJ’s Caribbean Takeaway & Restaurant Address of Premises:

112b Hulme High Street, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5JP Proposed licensable activities to be carried on at the premises: To carry on the business of a takeaway/restaurant with alcohol. An application has been made for a premises license for the above address to include the following: • To enable the sale of alcohol between - 2pm - 10pm Monday to Thursday - 2pm - 10.30pm Friday - 11am - 10.30pm Saturday - 11am - 9pm Sunday

• To enable regulated entertainment (as specified in the application) when the premises are open for the sale of alcohol • To enable the provision of refreshments as specified in the application

Representations shall be made in writing to the below address on or before: 1st July 2013 The Licensing Unit (Premises) Manchester City Council PO BOX 271, Manchester, M18 8YU

15,000 Homes

ENQUIRIES: info@thenubiantimes.com ADVERTISING: advertising@thenubiantimes.com DISTRIBUTION: distribution@thenubiantimes.com

Manchester Counselling Training Centre (MCTC) Would you like to build your confidence whilst gaing an accredited Level 2 Qualification? Are you good at listening or do you want to be a better listener? Have you ever thought of a career in counselling

Opportunities: FREE Level 2 Effective listening skills. Accredited by CPCAB

This course will teach you the following skills: • Improve Communication • Improve existing work roles • Enhance personal relationships • Improve collegial relationships within workplace teams • Enhance helping relationships • Promote better community relations Parent and child places for 6 parents and 6 young people aged between 12 and 16. Training to take place at: Moss Side Millenium Power House, 140 Raby Street, Moss Side, M14 4LS. Every Sunday up until July 14th 2013 If you know any parent and young people interested, let them know

Our saying is: “The potential for greatness is within us all, it is for us to achieve together through the support we give each other.” Contact Alicia at: Manchester Counselling Training Centre (MCTC), WISSCC Training Centre, Manchester, M14 4SW. Tel: (0161) 868 0962 or Mob: 0797 141 7621 blogging.humanities.manchester.ac.uk/mewxjah8/

5,000 Businesses

diversity has changed since the 1960’s and will reflect on how much we all owe to the work of people like Berry Edwards in promoting equal opportunities.”

ing. Skills learnt will be valuable talents that young people can use to pursue a career. First Cut Media & Performing Arts Group is a registered charity that has a long history of working with disadvantaged groups and individuals in order to develop their expressive, creative and technical skills in television, video and drama production. Over the past 20 years, the focus has been on providing media training opportunities for the communities of Moss Side, Hulme, Old Trafford and other inner city areas of Manchester. Ian Johns, Chair of First Cut, said: “We at First Cut are thrilled to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project will communicate how much British attitudes to racial

Why after serving his community for nearly three decades Mr gibbs, 75, still has a dream

Community stalwart, Byron Gibbs, has been a rock solid presence in Moss Side for nearly 29 years.

E S I T R E V AD

Celebration of the life and work of Beresford Edwards aka “Chief Nana Bonsu”

JUNE ‘13

s.com e im t n ia b u n e h advertising@t

Who’s Reading

ld Trafford-based First Cut Media and Performing Arts Group have been awarded £49,700 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to produce an oral history celebrating the life and work of Beresford Edwards - a founding father of Manchester’s African Caribbean community. The project will enable 50 young people and volunteers to discover, explore and learn about their history and culture in the UK, specifically from the 1960’s – 2000’s. Money from the Heritage Lottery Fund will also help them develop skills through training in research, video and audio recording techniques, desk-top digital editing, website development and desk-top publish-

C L A S S I F I ED S

The Nubain Times, Cornbrook Enterprise Centre, Hulme, M15 4HW

OPPORTUNITIES

JUNE ‘13

thenubiantimes.com

SPORT

JUNE ‘13

Local Opportunities In and Around Manchester Interpreter Are you fluent in English and any of these languages? Arabic, Nepali, Oromo, Somali, Swahili Refugee Action is currently recruiting interpreters to work on the Gateway Protection Programme. The work could be over the telephone or in person at a number of venues throughout Greater Manchester. Interpreters are paid £14 per hour for interpreting work and £7 per hour for time spent travelling to and from appointments. Travel costs are fully reimbursed. We employ interpreters on a

To find out more or to request an application pack, call Refugee Action on 0161 441 4159 and leave a message with your name, address, e-mail and phone number so that we can contact you on. Alternatively you can e-mail “InterpreterG@ refugee-action.org.uk” and include your name, address, and a contact telephone number. The deadline for applications is 13th June 2013. For more information on Refugee Action and our projects, visit: www.refugee-action.org

Who’s Reading

‘sessional’ basis. This means you would not be working every day from 9 to 5 but we would call on you when opportunities to work arise. Training will be provided.

Youth Programme Co-ordinator at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation We are looking for a Youth Programme Co-ordinator to join our well-established team based in Central Manchester. Salary: £22,220 - £24,341 Pro Rata (+10% Pension and membership of health cash plan scheme) Special Terms: Fixed until March 2015, 18.5 hours per week Accountable to: Head of Policy & Engagement Accountable for: Volunteers If you are a motivated and engaging individual, you might

Trafford Rape Crisis (TRC) is a women-only Collective affiliated with Rape Crisis (England and Wales), which provides support to women who have experienced rape or sexual abuse.

be just what we are looking for to help deliver our aspirations for young LGB&T people, contributing to promoting more inclusive environments and increased opportunities for them. Your responsibilities will include: • To increase youth participation, through engaging young people into work placements and volunteering at the LGF • To work with educational and other youth settings to raise awareness of LGB&T inclusivity • To support young LGB&T people to engage with relevant services as required If you would like an informal chat about this post, please contact Sian Payne on 0845 3 303030. Closing date: 12 midday Friday 14th June

Interviews: Monday 24th June For more information & to download a recruitment pack, please visit our website: www. lgf.org.uk/jobs. The LGF is part of the Positive about Disabled People Scheme and is an Investors in People accredited organization. We welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, faith and religion, disability and age, but, as ethnic minority groups, members of the trans community and religious and faith groups are currently under-represented across the organization, we would encourage applications from members of these groups. Appointment will be based on merit alone.

Job Ref: YH-11-02759

CENTRE MANAGER and FUNDRAISER (Female)* 35 hours per week £27,052 per annum We are also seeking a female for cover maternity cover (temporary) for a Volunteer Co-ordinator for a period of 9 to 12 months. VOLUNTEER CO-ORDINATOR (Female)* 21 hours per week. £27,052 per annum pro rate (£16,231)

Closing date: 14 June 2013 First Cut are seeking a Project Coordinator to work in the Moss Side area to coordinate a heritage lottery fund (HLF) oral history project. This post is a 12 months temporary contract that will give the right candidate the opportunity to work on a very interesting and exciting project. Responsible for the operational management and to ensure the smooth running of the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) project at all times and to organise the recording of video/audio and all related materials. To undertake a range of generic support tasks in order to support the range of activities for the oral history project.

For an information pack or to apply online, please visit www.traffordrapecrisis.com/Recruitment.html Application Closing Date: 12 noon on Monday 1st July 2013 Interviews will take place on Thursday 18th July and Friday 19th July 2013 *All of the posts are open to female applicants only; Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1 applies. The successful applicant for each post will be subject to a Criminal Records Bureau Check.

Must have a basic knowledge of DIY. Must have a full driving license, company vehicle is provided. You will be responsible for maintaining the properties and undertaking general repairs. This vacancy will be subject to a 6-month probationary period. 45 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. To apply forward CV to saabb2000@hotmail.com or write to P & A Properties, 293 Slade Lane, Burmage Manchester M19 2HR.

Project Coordinator at First Cut Job title: Project Coordinator

We are seeking to recruit a female Centre Manager to join the Collective in developing the future sustainability of TRC. This post is fixed-term for one year in the first instance, and thereafter subject to additional funding. Flexible working hours including evening and weekend work will be required.

handy person

Candidate must have at lease two years experience in project management. Some experience in media is preferred although not essential. Candidates must have good communication skills, be flexible and have a positive attitude, have the ability to work on own initiates and self manage. You may require a Criminal Records Bureau check. The job is dependant on suitable references. Candidate will be required to work evenings and some weekends, driver with own vehicle is preferred. Please contact Ian Johns on 01611787 for an application form or you can download the form at firstcutinfo@gmail. com If there is no one available to take your call, please leave a message clearly stating your full name address and the job reference number.

Champs camp still boxing clever

The sport sometimes gets a bad rap, but boxing continues to provide to play a key role in the physical and mental health and well-being for generations of young Mancunians, writes Neil Gellard. For many people, professional boxing is nothing more than a barbarous, sleazy sport, characterised by corruption, crime and dishonesty. But meeting messrs Coore, Bingham, Morris and Thompson – and listening to their passion for a sport which has been such a positive force for good - makes a mockery of that lazy stereotype. The four names mentioned above are all graduates of Champs Camp in Manchester’s Moss Side. Maurice Coore, Ensley ‘Bingo’ Bingham, Morris, and Carl Thompson, were there at

the beginning when out of the 1981 riots, the boxing club was not only born but flourished. Under the guidance of the late Phil Martin, who was the former Light Heavyweight professional boxer, the boxing club was built above the Co-op on Princess Road. Sadly, Phil passed away 27th May, 1994 after bravely fighting cancer. The vision he had, and the legacy he left in Moss Side is evident today. Maurice Coore, 46, who runs Champs Camp today, recalls: “There was nothing going on in this area. This gym was the only thing [after the riots] that was positive. It was a place to go for youths like me, aged fourteen or fifteen, to come and let out any venom. “There’s so much oppression in Moss-side that people need to

let some stuff out, whether it be physically or mentally. Here they can do both and at the same time get some discipline and structure back into their lives.” Local man Ensley ‘Bingo’ Bingham, whose stellar career started at fifteen with a visit to the newly opened gym, says it turned his troubled life around. “I was messing around with

mates, getting in trouble with the police – jumping in stolen cars, doing crazy stuff, “ he said. “When I got into boxing, the discipline it provided put me on the straight and narrow and kept me focussed on the things I wanted to do.” Like Coore and Bingham, Morris is a firm believer in the vital importance of the local

sportsman as role model. He said: “ Because we’re local people and genuine champions of our sports, I’ve found through talking with young people that we’re able to access and understand their problems a lot quicker – simply because we’ve been there. If they have issues that they feel they may not be able to discuss at home, then they know they can have a genuine conversation with us.” “That’s the unique thing about places like Champs Camp. When a young person walks in here, they’re looking at pictures on the wall of genuine British, European and World champions and two minutes later one of those same people might walk in.” Carl Thompson, the first man

to beat David Haye, knocking him out in front of his home crowd at Wembley Arena in September, 1994, said: “It’s such a positive thing. It keeps me healthy and happy in my mind. Whether you’re an amateur, professional or you do it just to keep fit; there are huge rewards in boxing.” All four men are kind, courteous, honest and, most noticeably of all, extremely happy. They have refused to succumb to selfdestructive life-style choices that suck the life out of them and their communities. Instead they have achieved personal success through hard work, honesty and pride and now, like Phil Martin, are passing the baton on to young men like they once were. Our current crop of politicians could learn a lot.

FASHION

JUNE ‘13

Who’s Reading

Top Model UK Natural Beauty Winner M

odel Adjoa Mensah won the award for the natural beauty Top Model UK competition last month, and is understandably ecstatic. . Adjoa aged 20, from Clayton Manchester is in her second year at Manchester College and hopes to become a lawyer. She has been modelling for Cliché Model Management for the past 8 months, putting her mixed Ghanian/Trinidadian background to maximum effect. Adjoa and the runners up get to choose from a selection of fabulous prizes, ranging from

travel and photoshoots in Malta, to the chance to grace the catwalk at London Fashion Week, Spa days and designer gowns. Runner up Carmen Ekpo, also signed to Cliché Model Management, also came second in the Editorial Category of Top Model UK. *Top Model UK is the leading professional model search competition in the UK and is also produced internationally at;

MANCHESTER

Flava

Working the Print

www.topmodelworldwide.com www.topmodeluk. com/#/about-topmodel/4552788300

Alternative to black, Channelling Blue...

siobhan white

TNt RUNWAY meets

The Nubian Times (TNT) runaway is amongst other things a collection of UK and Global style. ith ice w irt, bod sk Blingh split g a hi to bare dare

lamour ige G winner colour Prest Block & pillar dressed pes shoes i best str red box Lace figure Bold , alterneck dress h ing ’ ugg h Winner ‘TnT

We showcase what is being worn in Manchester’s Nightlife. This section will bring you Fashion Shows and High street fashion pictures. Showing you how the runways of London, Paris, Milan and New York influence our fashion trends unleashed on the streets of Manchester… and if we deem it worthy enough to wear. We will feature high street stores, boutiques and there garments that inspire our Manchester style trends.

If you would like your event showcased on TnT Runway: info@thenubiantimes.com

ayon milton

Cheeky Fun designer overload, Channel, Uggs, socks & designer Glasses ‘Great’ Easy tailored office look with oversized tote bag ‘we like’

Pictures for Manchester Flava taken in and around South & Central Manchester…Look out for The Nubian Times tilly sans