The Voice Newspaper: February 2025

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FEBRUARY 2025 • ISSUE NO. 1963

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The ‘Worl’ Boss’ is back!

Vybz Kartel proves he’s still King of Dancehall

A BOLD NEW CHAPTER

› p42

Krept and Konan want new venture Saveways to inspire young entrepreneurs AWARD-WINNING artists, Krept and Konan have launched Saveways—the UK’s first large supermarket for Black, Asian and ethnic communities.

Opening this month in Croydon, south London, the new venture reflects the duo’s roots and passion to create a business that has a lasting legacy. ›› p36

TRIO: Krept and Konan with business partner Kaysor Ali outside Saveways in Croydon

Inside THIS MONTH

The Voice says

ROUNDUP NEWSPAPER

News, views, stories & videos

THE 10 MOST POPULAR STORIES ON VOICE-ONLINE.CO.UK

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Thamesmead’s West African community battles eviction

6

How Dubai’s laws betrayed Marcus Fakana — and Britain let it happen

16

From invisible to unstoppable: how Black women can thrive in the workplace

27

Trinidad and Tobago replaces Columbus ships with steelpan in bold rejection of colonial past

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Scholarships, struggles, and second chances: The return of BBC’s Boarders

46

Making waves: Kai Hockley’s rise in the world of sailing

NBPA’s Met Police boycott demand is a wake-up call 1 senior leaders must heed 2

Reggae Origins concert marks Bob Marley’s 80th birthday

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HE National Black Police Association’s (NBPA) renewed call for the Black community to boycott joining the Metropolitan Police Service is a stark indictment of a force still riddled with institutional racism. This move underlines a painful truth: the Met remains an unsafe space for Black people despite years of promises of change.

The boycott was first issued in February 2023, following the case of Charles Ekihoya, a Black officer subjected to relentless racial harassment.

Nearly two years later, the NBPA’s decision to renew the call highlights the lack of meaningful reform.

As NBPA President Andy George stated in our exclusive report, without genuine cultural change, it is neither safe nor feasible for Black people to join the Met or indeed other police forces around the country.

The Casey Review in March 2023 exposed the Met’s toxic culture, rife with racism, misogyny, and homophobia. Yet, instead of ushering in significant reform, the force continues to fail to tackle discrimination.

Black and Asian officers face disproportionate misconduct investigations, humiliation, and blocked career progression, while

This issue is 48 pages EDITOR Vic Motune E. vic.motune@thevoicemedia group.co.uk

CORPORATE AFFAIRS & COMMUNICATIONS Paula Dyke E. paula@thevoicemedia group.co.uk

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Paulette Simpson E. paulette.simpson@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Joel Campbell E. joel.campbell@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk

White officers receive seemingly lenient treatment for racist behaviour.

The statistics are damning: ethnic minority officers are twice as likely as White colleagues to face misconduct allegations, while public trust in the Met has plummeted. Recruitment from Black communities remains dismal, with only a small number of applicants advancing through the system.

Senior leaders, including Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, must act decisively to tackle these issues. Rowley’s refusal to acknowledge the Met as “institutionally racist” undermines progress. Reform must go beyond diversity targets; it requires transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for racism.

Restructuring the Met into smaller, more accountable units, as the NBPA suggests, could dismantle entrenched leadership barriers.

Lessons from Northern Ireland show how representation, combined with systemic change, can drive cultural reform.

The NBPA’s boycott should act as a wake-up call. Without transformative action, the Met will perpetuate harm to both officers and the communities it serves. Senior leaders must choose: protect the status quo or create a force that truly serves and protects all. The time for change is now.

The Four Kings changed the world of British boxing forever Marcus Fakana: protest set to demand teen’s release from Dubai prison

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Historic change: Trinidad and Tobago removes Columbus’ ships from its Coat of Arms Marcus Fakana: 50,000 sign petition in support of jailed British teen in Dubai

‘Get tested, it could save your life’ – Omar’s message to Black men ‘Jamaica made me and that helped to turn my pain into purpose’

England’s first Black cricketer to reveal all Guyana concerned that Venezuela still pushing into its control oil-rich territory Reggae stars back calls for reparations for Caribbean and African nations

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FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 3

MOTHER TACKLES PREJUDICE WITH SELF-PUBLISHED CHILDREN’S BOOK

News UK BAKERY PARTNERS WITH VM FOUNDATION TO HELP SCHOOLS’ WATER STORAGE

Harmful classroom remark countered with storytelling to comfort Black children and build sense of self-confidence. By Vic Motune

“I

HATE MY skin and my hair.” These were the heartbreaking words Shirley Morgan’s fiveyear-old daughter repeatedly uttered, leaving the North Eastbased mother searching for a way to comfort her.

The distress stemmed from a classmate’s cruel remark during nursery, claiming that “pink skin was better than brown skin” and using it as a reason to exclude her from playtime.

For over a year, her daughter internalised this comment, eroding her self-confidence and sense of identity.

Desperate to counter the damage, Morgan decided to craft a story DEBUT: Shirley Morgan that would not only reassure her child but also help her navigate “My child had future encounters with prejudice.

INSPIRATION That story has now been turned into a children’s book, which Morgan recently self-published, called The Horrendous Lie. The book centres on a young girl named Elsie, whose love of playing pretend with her best friend, Sophia, is interrupted by a harmful lie that sets her on a journey of selfdiscovery and truth.

Reflecting on the incident that inspired the book, Morgan said: “The Horrendous Lie came out of a conversation I had with my daughter when she was five years old. She had been expressing distress about her appearance for over a year. She would say that she hated her skin and her hair and would be very emotional about feeling different to her classmates.”

Things came to a head during the lockdown when her daughter finally told her that a child at nursery had said that she couldn’t play with a friend because they had different coloured skin and that “pink skin was better than brown”.

“My child had internalised that message and begun to dislike herself because of it,” the debut author explained.

“I told her the story of The Horrendous Lie, explaining to her

internalised a message about skin colour and begun to dislike herself”

the reason the ideology of racial supremacy and inferiority had been created, why it isn’t true and how people should be treated and valued. I knew she would face racial comments from others in the future so I wanted to tell her the truth in a way that would make her understand why these beliefs existed in more than just one rogue person, and that the prevalence of these attitudes didn’t make them any less a lie.”

Morgan, an Anglican lay minister and former journalist, said the story had a profound impact on her daughter.

“The story had a massive impact on her. She went from thinking it was her difference, her hair and her skin that was the problem, and instead she began to love herself again and feel sorry for the people who still believed

DONATION: Mike Williams, centre, with students from Newell High and members of the VM Foundation

IMPORTANCE: The Horrendous Lie focuses on the story of Elsie, a young girl who plays with her best friend, Sophia, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery after confronting a harmful lie.

Right, a scene from the book. the lie of racial hierarchy,” she explained.

Morgan’s work joins a growing wave of children’s books created by independent Black authors, who are transforming the publishing landscape with stories that celebrate African and Caribbean heritage.

For decades, traditional publishing houses largely failed to prioritise diverse voices, but this new era of independent publishing is filling a critical void.

of belonging. For Black children, who often contend with stereotypes and negative portrayals in the media, books like The Horrendous Lie provide a powerful counternarrative.

While her daughter has since faced further race-related incidents, the author credits the story’s lessons with helping her respond with resilience.

“Her reaction continues to be to feel sorry for the person who REPRESENTATION Campaigners for greater diversity believes the lie, rather than hatred in publishing have long argued that of herself,” she said.

“I decided to write the story into representation matters, especially a book in the hope that it might for children. help other children too.”

They say that seeing positive l For further details please visit depictions of cultural heritage in books can have a profound impact bangonbooks.co.uk/bookshelf/ on a child’s self-esteem and sense the-horrendous-lie

FLAKE Bake, a family-run Jamaican patty company based in Peckham, south London, has teamed up with Jamaica’s VM Foundation to provide critical water storage solutions for three schools in Jamaica.

The initiative, part of the VM Foundation’s Hurricane Beryl relief efforts, aims to address water shortages affecting students’ access to safe and clean water in rural St Elizabeth.

The collaboration was marked by the handover of three 1,000-gallon polyethylene water tanks during a ceremony at Newell High School. The tanks, which will benefit Lewisville High, Newell High, and Aberdeen High Schools, will serve as a reliable source of drinking water and emergency backup for water supplies.

Mike Williams, owner of Flake Bake, highlighted the company’s commitment to giving back to Jamaica.

“As someone who grew up in a small town in Jamaica, I understand the challenges many children face and the limited opportunities available to them,” he said. “This initiative is about empowering children to see themselves as global citizens, capable of dreaming beyond their rural communities.”

Flake Bake raised £2,000 for the initiative by donating a penny from every patty

sold during a successful campaign that included sales of 80,000 patties at Aldi supermarkets and 120,000 at external events.

Samantha Charles, CEO of the VM Foundation, praised the partnership as a step toward improving educational outcomes.

“The lack of access to safe and clean water directly impacts our education system,” she said.

“When students face the additional burdens of inadequate water supply, education can be negatively impacted.”

Flake Bake’s success story is rooted in its authentic Jamaican heritage. The company was launched 12 years ago and produces over 20,000 handmade patties weekly.

Last year, it gained national recognition after winning a life-changing contract to supply Aldi stores nationwide through the Channel 4 series Aldi’s Next Big Thing.

Led by Mike and his father, Paul Williams, Flake Bake wowed judges with the standout flavour of their beef patties, overcoming challenges to scale production and enhance packaging. Today, the company is not only a leader in the UK’s patty market but also an advocate for social responsibility, supporting local schools and charities.

4 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

THE FIGHT FOR LESNES ESTATE’S HEART AND SOUL How one West African community is trying to resist the demolition of their homes by a housing association they say is simply out for profit. By Richard Sudan

T

HE LESNES ESTATE in Thamesmead, southeast London, has become the centre of a face-off between residents and Peabody, one of the country’s largest housing associations.

Peabody’s proposal to demolish the estate and construct almost 2,000 new homes has been met with resistance from the community, particularly among its significant West African population.

The area has long been a sanctuary for London’s West African diaspora.

The 2011 census revealed that 35.6 per cent of residents in the Thamesmead Moorings ward identified as Black African, one of the highest percentages in both London and the UK. It’s a vibrant community which has established deep roots, creating a rich cultural fabric and dynamic.

However, the proposed regeneration now threatens to displace these residents, disrupting social networks, families and cultural ties that have been nurtured over many decades.

Peabody Housing Association claims that residents voted in

favour of ‘regeneration’ in 2020, which was subsequently approved

by Bexley Council.

But they say that they were misled into thinking their homes would be renovated and that ‘demolition’ was not mentioned in the consultation document.

They feel they’ve been hoodwinked and are now demanding that the existing homes and empty properties be refurbished and not simply knocked down.

Peabody, they say, simply wants to clear the area for luxury apartments with the Elizabeth

“Some of these

people live with special needs. It’s heartbreaking when you see people bullied into compliance”

- Johnell Olabhie

Line now making potential new properties a very lucrative proposition. Furthermore, the money being offered to homeowners to incentivise them to move isn’t enough to afford a new property in London.

The campaign to save Lesnes, which has included residents petitioning London Mayor Sadiq Khan, speaks to a tale of social cleansing all too familiar in the capital.

And it’s a nightmare for those who are largely impacted – Black and ethnic minority working-class communities.

Homeowner Johnell Olabhie, originally from Nigeria, has lived in the Lesnes estate for 20 years.

Speaking to The Voice, he argued that the regeneration plans are really a cynical ploy to make money, at the expense of vulnerable people.

‘Regeneration’ or ‘cash cow’?

“Peabody just wants to use the estate as a cash cow, and it’s so obvious what they are doing,” Olabhie explained.

“I think the reason they do it is they just look around and see a disadvantaged minority.

“Some of these people live with special needs, are over 70 years old and have two jobs. It’s heartbreaking when you see people you’ve known for so long bullied into compliance. And the council is colluding with Peabody. They are very weak and self-centred.

“Why would you want to chase us away and buy the land that we bought many years ago? This area used to be very green and bushy and now it’s rundown,” he added. “And it’s just because of the Elizabeth Line, because they want to make money.”

Resident opposition and protests In April 2024, residents and activists occupied an empty house on the Lesnes Estate in protest at the planned demolitions. They demanded that Peabody’s senior management engage directly with the community to address their concerns. The ongoing protests speak to residents’ determination to preserve their homes and community bonds.

‘MANAGED INTENTIONAL DECLINE’: Activists claim Lesnes Estate is being deliberately run down to force residents out Andrea Gilbert, an activist supporting those opposing Peabody’s plans, does not live on the Lesnes Estate but is at the heart of the campaign.

She says that some of those who accepted Peabody’s rehousing plans ended up cut off from family ties, isolated and in undesirable areas.

“There’s so many Black people here – and so I wanted to help them save their homes,” Gilbert

told The Voice. “A lot of them are pensioners, around my mum’s age.

So many of them came here for a better life. But if they move out from their homes they’re not going to be living in London.

“As we’ve seen from people who have accepted the offer, some have ended up in places like Gillingham, living among drug users. They are fuming that they ever left, and took the offer. It’s unbelievable.

“And then we hear about mums

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 5

News Feature NEGLECT: Lesnes residents claim the estate has been left to decay despite repeated complaints

ACTIVISM: Andrea Gilbert, left, petitions London Mayor Sadiq Khan to save Lesnes

being put into care homes up here, and family members still have to come back to see their parents. It’s a mess.

“My mum’s from the Windrush generation,” Gilbert added in a nod to the prejudice faced by previous generations. “That’s another reason why I got involved, because I don’t want struggles to happen to this West African community.”

Allegations of managed decline Lesnes residents have accused Peabody and the council of deliberately neglecting the estate to justify demolition – and to make the area uninhabitable for the remaining 90 or so households that have refused to sell or move.

The estate was made up of homeowners, renters and social tenants.

Activists say that communal areas have deteriorated, with essential services like lighting and waste management failing. This ‘managed decline’ has intensified residents’ psychological stress and anger.

The remaining households on the estate have been particularly vocal

about the worsening conditions.

Residents report widespread issues such as mice infestations and flytipping across parts of the estate, and cockroaches.

Despite repeated complaints, both Peabody and Bexley Council have reportedly failed to address these problems.

Nigerianborn Reverend Jim Osas Igunma, 72, right, has been in the UK since 1991 and a homeowner in Lesnes since 2003.

The picture he describes is a far cry from how the estate looks after the years under Peabody’s watch.

“It was a lovely place when I moved in here,” he recalls. “Very quiet, you could only hear the birds.

You could read your PhD here uninterrupted. You knew who your neighbours were. Most of the time our doors were open without even realising nothing would happen to you.

“Everything was just fine until

Peabody came over, because of the Elizabeth Line.

“Now, the place has become a den for burglars, thieves and squatters,” Igunma went on to add.

‘Ethnic cleansing’ Residents say the grounds surrounding the Lesnes Estate are full of rubbish with empty houses boarded up, almost ready for demolition.

Streetlights that went out never had their bulbs replaced.

Abandoned cars and drug-dealing became rife.

Like other activists, Igunma says there is “no way” residents would be treated this way, and abandoned, if they were not Black.

“The majority of people living here are Black and Asian,” he said.

“There was a property Peabody refurbished as a prototype. And if you saw it, it was beautiful. Just beautiful. So if they could do that prototype refurbishment of one whole house, then why didn’t they continue instead of wanting to demolish our homes? If there were MPs living in Lesnes, do you really think they would be doing this? Of course not.

“Every moment when all of this flashes in my mind, my heart will be beating abnormally.

“When I reported it, they said it was a heart palpitation. It’s affecting my health.

“My message to Sadiq Khan is not to buy the lies of Peabody, who are in collusion with Bexley Council, to push us out of here.

Because they are and that’s what’s happening. We should be clear. This is ethnic cleansing. That’s exactly what it is. If the Mayor buys the idea, then they are going to cause so many deaths in this area. For me to leave this place — it will mean they kill me first before they get me out of here.”

Igunma went on to explain how, although Peabody claims 70% of people voted for so-called regeneration, many or most residents didn’t actually vote and many had no idea that plans were underway to bulldoze their homes.

Many of the retired residents will not be able to secure loans to get a new property. Activists are demanding that Peabody acts fairly and responsibly regarding the remaining residents, many of whom are now in their 70s.

The Lesnes Estate fallout is not the first time Peabody has been accused of putting profit before people.

It also came under fire after a Black medical secretary, Sheila Seleoane, died in her flat in 2019 with her body remaining undiscovered for more than two years.

Despite neighbours repeatedly raising the alarm to Peabody, that something was wrong, many times, nothing was done.

At the same time the 58-yearold’s body remained undiscovered, Peabody did attempt, with success, to keep Seleoane’s rent coming in by applying for Universal Credit on her behalf, after her payments stopped coming in.

In November 2024, Peabody was revealed to have received more prevention of death orders than any other housing association.

The role of compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) The Lesnes debacle continues.

Homeowners have also reported the threat of compulsory purchase orders (CPOs), which could acquire the remaining properties from those unwilling to sell. Jim Osas Igunma and others say they will take Peabody to court before that happens.

The prospect of CPOs has been described as coercive and a tactic of bullying designed in particular to scare elderly people into selling their properties for less than their value.

Many feel cornered into leaving their homes with little agency to challenge the redevelopment plans.

Peabody’s position Peabody maintains that redevelopment is the optimal solution for the estate, aiming to provide high-quality homes to address housing shortages. They cite the 2020 ballot as a justification to plough ahead.

Responding to The Voice over claims made about their conduct, a spokesperson for Peabody said: “We consulted with residents between 2016 and 2020 about the regeneration of the estate, and our plans to demolish homes were clear. We’ve always been happy to talk to the residents about any concerns they may have and are here to support them through the regeneration process.

“Keeping the estate in good order is a main priority for us. We’ve already met with some residents and walked through the estate with them to ensure we’re responding to their concerns. Our teams work on

the estate daily and our wardens regularly patrol the area. We’ve cleared fly-tipping from several gardens in recent months, and we’re issuing fines to anyone found to be illegally dumping rubbish. In September, we hosted a meeting with the council to address residents’ concerns around waste collection.”

Campaigners say the situation in Thamesmead highlights the need for development plans that are inclusive and considerate of existing communities.

Regeneration should not come at the cost of displacing residents, especially those from minority communities who have historically faced systemic challenges.

As the debate over the Lesnes Estate continues, it serves as a sharp reminder of the importance of community engagement in urban planning.

The voices of residents, particularly those from significant cultural communities like the West African diaspora in Thamesmead and Lesnes, must be at the forefront of any redevelopment discussions.

Bexley Council were approached by The Voice for comment.

6 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Opinion

TRAPPED ABROAD: THE INJUSTICE OF MARCUS FAKANA

BRIGHT LIGHTS: Dubai’s glossy tourist image masks a harsh reality: it profits massively from tourists, but it weaponises its laws against visitors when convenient; inset, Marcus Fakana, whose case highlights a system that neglects Black lives, says Richard Sudan (main photo: Getty Images)

More than romance gone wrong, this case showcases the UAE’s repression – and the UK’s real priority, says Richard Sudan

M

ARCUS FAKANA is the latest victim of Dubai’s oppressive legal system.

A family holiday turned into a nightmare after an innocent teenage relationship led to his arrest and imprisonment. Now, he faces a year behind bars in a foreign country, paying the price for outdated laws.

Marcus should never have been jailed. He should be at home doing what young people of his age do. But instead, he spent his 19th birthday behind bars. And he welcomed in the

INACTION: Marcus Fakana’s local MP, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, has faced criticism for not doing more to help the jailed teenager (Photo: Getty Images)

New Year in solitary confinement.

His offence? Forming a relationship with another UK tourist. A British girl in the same school year. They exchanged messages. They spent time together, nothing out of the ordinary for teenagers.

The girl’s mother found out and reported the relationship to the Dubai authorities, Marcus was then arrested and convicted under Dubai’s laws – because the girl was classified as being below the age of consent at 17, while he was 18 at the time.

The girl’s mother has a lot to answer for. What was it that compelled her to contact the authorities in Dubai? We can only guess.

What’s truly alarming is that Marcus’s actions would be completely legal in the UK. Yet, Dubai’s regressive laws have turned an innocent relationship into a so-called crime.

DUBAI’S DOUBLE STANDARDS Dubai loves to sell itself as a tourist paradise with luxury, beaches, and high-end shopping. But the city’s polished image hides a harsh reality: a legal system designed to trap the unwary.

Foreigners are particularly

vulnerable, often finding themselves punished for behaviour considered normal in their home countries.

The hypocrisy, however, is glaring. Dubai profits massively from Western tourists and expats, but it weaponises its laws against them when convenient.

Marcus is yet another victim of this system.

WHERE’S THE UK GOVERNMENT? But this isn’t just down to Dubai. The silence from the UK government is deafening and tells its own story.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy represents Marcus’s constituency of Tottenham.

And his reluctance to stand up for the teenager has infuriated many and it’s not surprising.

His position is seemingly completely at odds and out of touch with how the public feel.

So far more than £50,000 has been raised for Marcus’ legal defence fund.

Professor Kehinde Andrews, of Birmingham City University, made his view of Lammy’s silence clear. Writing on X ( formerly Twitter), Prof Andrews said: “I promise you if Lammy wasn’t Foreign Secretary he would have been all over the Marcus Fakana case, who has a one-year sentence for a rela-

tionship in Dubai. A reminder that [he] represents the state, not us. ‘You can’t be pro-Black and be in the government’.”

Equally, Radha Stirling, CEO of the London-based legal specialist group Detained in Dubai, argued that the UK government could advocate more strongly for Marcus if they chose to. If the political will was there.

Also taking to X, she explained and elaborated: “David Lammy has falsely represented that the UK has provided its full support to Marcus Fakana.

Absolute lies. JD Vance had his boys home in two weeks.

Ireland had Tori Towey home in a week. Jeremy Hunt threatened sanctions against the UAE. “It is imperative that voters in Tottenham do NOT re-elect David Lammy or any other party replacement. He does not care about his constituents and will not do the very basic diplomatic job of saving Marcus from a custodial sentence.”

Why then, is the government so quiet? The answer is simple: money. The UAE is a key trading partner, and protecting Marcus risks straining relations. Once again, economic interests are being placed above the welfare of a young Black British citizen.

I’d also go one further. In the current political climate, steeped in anti-Black racism, the government is not willing to take the risk of fighting and going out on a limb for a young Black boy, and to appear ‘woke’.

Marcus is being treated as

The UK’s inaction sends a dangerous message: British citizens abroad are on their own.

As for Black British citizens?

Forget about it.

“If David Lammy wasn’t Foreign Secretary, JUSTICE FOR MARCUS he would have Marcus Fakana’s imprisonment is a travesty. People are been all over protesting his case. He is not a It’s the system which this case.” criminal. is at fault and immoral.

– Prof Kehinde Andrews collateral damage by a system which does not value Black lives.

If Marcus were White, and from a different social class, might we have seen a greater drive to pull out the stops and bring him home? I think so.

Marcus’s family, meanwhile, has been left to shoulder the burden. Legal fees are mounting, and they’ve been forced to crowdfund for support. This is a damning indictment of a system that abandons its citizens when they need it most.

A DEEPER PROBLEM Marcus’s case isn’t unique.

Dubai has a long history of detaining foreigners for trivial or misunderstood offences.

Organisations like Detained in Dubai have been sounding the alarm for years, but the UK government has consistently failed to act.

Other countries, including Canada and Ireland, have proven far more willing to intervene for their nationals.

Marcus is a teenager caught in the crossfire of draconian laws and a government unwilling to defend him.

This case should be a wakeup call, not just for travellers, but for the UK government.

And for Black people the case is a reminder that the colour of our passport will never trump the colour of our skin. AntiBlack racism remains global currency.

So-called diplomacy must never come at the expense of its citizens’ rights and safety.

Marcus’s release must become a priority, and broader pressure must be applied to reform Dubai’s unjust legal system.

For now, Marcus remains trapped, his life on hold, while those in power look the other way.

While his government and his local MP are failing in their duty to him, I hope his family can take comfort in the wave of public support for Marcus, and that Marcus himself knows that the community will continue to demand justice until he is released.

7 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2022

Contact your GP practice If you’ve seen blood in your urine – even just once, or had tummy trouble such as discomfort or diarrhoea for three weeks or more, it could be a sign of cancer. It’s probably nothing serious, but finding cancer early makes it more treatable.

Your NHS wants to see you. nhs.uk/cancersymptoms

FEBRUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 7

8 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

News Feature

OMAR LEADS CANCER TEST PLEA AFTER HIS DIAGNOSIS

TREATED: British singersongwriter and actor, Omar Lye-Fook, disclosed to The Voice he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September 2023 (main photo: Jeff Spicer/Getty

‘Don’t be soft’ – legendary soul singer warns Black men after receiving news of killer disease.

By Sinai Fleary

Images, inset: Jazz Services/Heritage Images/Getty Images)

O

MAR LYE-FOOK, the legendary British soul singer and songwriter known simply as Omar, has spent decades lighting up stages with his smooth vocals and unforgettable hits.

But in September 2023, away from the spotlight, he faced one of the most daunting challenges of his life: a prostate cancer diagnosis.

“It was a little scary,” Omar told The Voice. “I didn’t have any symptoms, but I’ve always taken my health seriously, so I was going for regular checkups every six months.

That’s when it showed up. My brother passed away from pancreatic cancer, my mum had bowel cancer, so there’s a history of it in the family, so the best thing to do is to keep checking.”

A routine PSA blood test, part of his health regime, indicated abnormal levels, prompting further investigation. An MRI and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis.

In January 2024, Omar underwent brachytherapy, a form of internal radiotherapy that delivers high doses of radiation directly to the prostate.

“I spoke to others who’d had prostate cancer, and everyone recommended this treatment to me,” he shared.

“There’s a funny moment to it, when I was getting my biopsy done you are actually baring all and somebody actually recognised me – while you got all your bits out.

“You’ve got to have a conversa-

form to educate others. “It’s about knowing your body and taking charge of your health,” he says.

tion with this person while all your bits are out, that did actually help me take my mind off the procedure, I always have to look at the funny side of things.”

Omar was treated at the Stokes Centre for Urology, Royal Surrey County Hospital.

Describing his experience during treatment, he said: “They couldn’t have treated me any better, I felt like I was a private patient but it was the NHS, because you were handled with such care.”

Supported by his family, including his daughters, Omar is now on the road to recovery and is optimistic about the future.

“It’s about finding that light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “I’m looking forward to releasing my new album, Brighter The Days, in June. I’m just about to go back to the States and I’ve got a tour coming up, so there’s stuff that I need to do and I can’t be worrying about health things.

DOUBLE THE RISK: Statistics show that one in four Black men will get prostate cancer (photo: Getty Images)

He added: “My family is very important to me – my girls, as soon as I told them, they were very supportive. Everybody around me was very loving and caring.”

Omar’s journey has also ignited his passion for raising awareness about prostate cancer, particularly among Black men who are disproportionately affected by the disease.

Shocking statistics Nearly 1,600 Black men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in the UK, and they are more likely to receive a diagnosis at later, more dangerous stages.

According to the National Prostate Cancer Audit, for every 100,000 Black men, 440 are diagnosed at stage 3 or 4, compared to 295 White men. Late-stage diagnoses dramatically reduce survival rates, yet the inequities don’t stop there.

Black men in their 60s are 14 per cent less likely than their White counterparts to receive NICE-approved life-saving treatments, such as surgery or radiotherapy.

These disparities underline systemic failures in addressing Black men’s health needs.

For Omar, the numbers are personal.

His family’s history of cancer has made him vigilant about his health, but he knows many men aren’t as proactive.

“We’re talking about something curable if caught early,” he emphasises. “There’s no excuse not to get tested.”

Prostate Cancer UK’s campaign highlights the urgency of breaking through cultural and systemic barriers.

“Although we don’t yet have a complete picture of why these disparities exist, the evidence reveals inequities in care,” Morgan explains.

“Black men need to feel empowered to demand tests and treatment, but we also need the system to work for them.”

A call to action “Don’t be soft,” Omar urged. “This is your life. The longer you leave it, the fewer options you have. Get tested.”

His story comes as Prostate Cancer UK launches a campaign urging the Government to update NHS guidelines to address the alarming disparities in prostate cancer outcomes for Black men.

Currently, it’s up to individual men to research their risk and request a PSA blood test – a quick and simple test that can indicate whether further investigation is needed.

But for Black men, who face double the risk of developing prostate cancer compared to other men, this passive approach is costing lives.

The charity is calling for proactive measures: mandatory discussions between GPs and Black men about their heightened risk starting at age 45.

Keith Morgan, Associate Director of Black Health Equity at Prostate Cancer UK, describes the situation as a “moral imperative”.

“Black men are being let down by outdated guidelines that fail to address health inequities,” Morgan says.

“New data confirms what we’ve been hearing for years: Black men Proactive solutions face significant barriers to timely The charity is encouraging Black diagnosis and treatment.” men to use their free online Risk

Checker tool to assess their likelihood of developing prostate cancer and to request PSA blood tests from their GPs. Prostate Cancer UK is also inviting members of the public to join its campaign to pressure the government for change.

The proposed updates to NHS guidelines hopes to save lives by ensuring Black men are informed of their risks and supported through early testing.

“We’re asking for a basic, common-sense approach,” Morgan says. “Every GP should proactively discuss prostate cancer risks with Black men from the age of 45.”

Beyond statistics, the human stories are compelling.

Omar’s diagnosis is a testament to the power of early detection.

While he faced initial fear, his decision to prioritise regular health checks most likely saved his life. He now sees his experience as a plat-

A future of hope For Prostate Cancer UK, the fight is far from over. “This isn’t just a health issue; it’s a justice issue,” Morgan insists.

The charity’s campaign is gaining momentum, but they need widespread support to ensure that Black men aren’t left behind by a system that should protect them.

Omar’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and proactive healthcare.

For Black men, a simple PSA blood test could be the difference between life and death.

“Don’t wait until it’s too late,” Omar urges. “Take control of your health. Your life is worth it.” lYou can sign the letter asking the Government to change NHS guidelines on Prostate Cancer UK’s website at campaigns.prostatecanceruk. org/page/163053/petition/1?ea. tracking.id=PRmedia. lTo use the charity’s free online Risk Checker, please visit: prostatecanceruk.org/risk-checker

BACK TO BUSINESS: Omar-Lye-Fook told The Voice he is looking forward to releasing his new album, Brighter The Days, in June this year. (photo: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

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10 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

News Feature

BLACK POLICE OFFICERS’ BODY RENEWS MET BOYCOTT CALLS

EXCLUSIVE: Concerns grow over treatment of Black officers and broader failure of force to address systemic issues. By Vic Motune

T

HE NATIONAL Black Police Association (NBPA) has renewed its call for the Black community to boycott joining the Met Police citing persistent institutional racism and a lack of meaningful cultural change within the force.

The call comes as concerns grow over the treatment of Black officers and the broader failure of the Met to address systemic issues highlighted in recent reviews such as the Casey review.

The initial NBPA call for a recruitment boycott in February last year was prompted by the case of Charles Ekihoya, a Black Met officer. Ekihoya faced repeated racial harassment and discriminatory practices within the force, leading to his resignation.

The NBPA said at the time that Ekihoya’s experience underscored the Met’s failure to treat Black officers fairly and tackle racism in the force.

The renewed call for action comes at a critical moment for the Met, as it grapples with declining public trust and mounting pressure to implement reforms.

According to the NBPA, systemic change is needed to tackle deep-seated challenges to race equality and create a safe, equitable environment for officers and communities alike.

Andy George, President of the NBPA told The Voice: “Until we see

ACCOUNTABILITY: Andy George, President of the National Black Police Association

genuine commitment to cultural change and accountability, it’s difficult to encourage Black people to join the Met. “In February last year, the NBPA called for a recruitment boycott by the Black community of the Metropolitan Police Service, citing institutional racism across UK police forces. “We are calling for that boycott to continue. The Met has faced numerous reviews confirming the fact that this is still an issue. We are continuing to support our members who are facing addressing career challenges and highlighting the disproportionate targeting and pushback they’ve encountered, particularly since the Casey Review which found institutional racism in the force.”

STANDARDS The Casey Review, published in March 2023, set out to examine whether the Met’s leadership, recruitment, vetting, training, culture, and communications align with the standards the public expects.

It revealed entrenched problems of institutional racism, misogyny, and homophobia in the Met and its findings. reignited debates about the force’s ability to reform and provide a safe and inclusive environment for officers and the communities they serve.

According to the Casey Review, the Met’s approach to tackling

ACTION: The NBPA is renewing its call for the Black community to boycott joining the Met Police discrimination in the service was ineffective, misconduct process did not discipline officers with repeated patterns of unacceptable behaviour and staff did not believe that action would be taken when concerns were raised.

“Since Baroness Casey’s review, resource withdrawal from the Met BPA and the rise of alternative police networks have exposed longstanding issues” George said.

“Leaders in the Met and other forces now openly voice what was once said privately. The Met is not a safe space for Black and Asian officers, and attacks on the Met BPA have undermined its ability to provide vital support, amplify dissenting voices, and maintain honesty within the force. Black people shouldn’t join the police now, which is regrettable.”

The NBPA’s call for a boycott comes amid wider discussions about whether or not the Met should be re-structured to ensure greater transparency and efficiency.

George repeated his controversial call for the Met to be broken up, arguing that its current structure hinders progress on race equality.

“Restructuring the Met, which has an overly large leadership

structure, could improve local accountability and efficiency,” he said. “Reducing the number of senior officers and redistributing their responsibilities might enhance effectiveness.

“The Home Secretary and the National Police Chief ’s Council have also discussed creating a national policing service. This could streamline processes and increase efficiency, accountability, and consistency across UK policing.”

change,” he said. “Without a large, Chiefs’ Council introduced a unified influx of Black officers simi- race action plan for England and lar to what happened in Northern Wales, aiming to address decades of racial discrimination and the Ireland with Catholic officers, cultural shifts won’t happen. Some disproportionate use of force against Black British communiBlack officers will be targeted for ties – issues it acknowledged untheir differences, while others dermined public trust in policing. may conform, perpetuating the The plan was prompted by the dominant culture. Worse, some may become spokespeople defend- global protests sparked by the ing institutional racism. Recently, murder of George Floyd in the US the Met has weaponised Black and at the hands of a police officer.

Asian officers to present a false narrative of progress, echoing other TARGETED public sectors where minority indiDIVERSITY But despite this initiative, Greater ethnic diversity within viduals can deflect criticism more George pointed to significant effectively than white colleagues. the police force has been a key barriers that hinder progress.

“This undermines genuine campaign issue for the NBPA and “Policing struggles with attractrepresentation and highlights the ing and retaining Black officers, other race equality campaigners need for structural change rather who argue that greater diversity despite 4.4 per cent of applicants than superficial diversity.” can drive cultural change. in the final year of the uplift George continued: “Representa- program coming from However, George cautioned tion is important, but it also needs Black communities. against superficial efforts to increase diversity without addressing to come with systemic culture “Many fail to progress through change. Unfortunately, we haven’t the system, and those who do are the underlying systemic issues.

He drew parallels with Northern got the culture change. What we’ve disproportionately targeted with Ireland, where increased Catholic seen is a digging in of the heels, a misconduct investigations and representation in the country’s po- defensive and dismissive nature, underperformance notices leadlice force led to a culture shift. But which Baroness Casey highlighted. ing to probationary dismissals.

That’s why it’s just not feasible or he warned that the Met’s current Efforts to withhold this data from safe for people to come in.” environment could undermine the public highlight the need for The NBPA’s call for a boycott similar efforts. transparency. also underscores the ongoing chal“In Northern Ireland, Catholic “The re-engagement with the lenges of attracting and retaining representation in the country’s Police Race Action Plan demands Black and minority ethnic officers. publicly accessible data to expose police force grew from eight per cent to 32 per cent, driving cultural In 2020, the National Police and address these disparities.”

FEBRUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 11

12 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

News

COMEDY STAR THANYIA Black-led MOORE SET TO HOST venture fund top prize COMMUNITY AWARDS wins for diversity Hilarious television star will help honour the unsung heroes who boost others in the inaugural ceremony of the Community, Corporate and Culture Awards next month. By Vic Motune

A

WARD-WINNING comedian Thanyia Moore has been announced as the host of the inaugural Community, Corporate and Culture (CCC) Awards.

The event aims to honour unsung heroes who have made significant contributions across the community, corporate and cultural sectors in the UK, and will take place on March 1 at London’s prestigious National Gallery in Trafalgar Square.

Moore, a celebrated comedian, actress, and presenter, is best known for her commanding stage presence and sharp wit.

She has an impressive list of accolades, including winning the Funny Women Awards in 2018, and boasts television credits such as the BBC’s Mock the Week, Drunk History: Black Stories (Comedy Central), and Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled for U&Dave. Her acting portfolio includes roles in BAFTAwinning productions like Alma’s Not Normal and Jamie Johnson.

The CCC Awards, co-founded

by Mahari Hay and Mexy Thomas, aim to provide a platform for individuals and organisations whose efforts often go unrecognised.

Hay, who serves as Director of Innovation and Transformation at Lloyds Banking Group and co-chairs the company’s Black employee network, BOLD, shared the inspiration behind the awards.

“We attend a lot of award ceremonies,” Hay told The Voice. “What tends to happen is that honourees often thank the people who helped them achieve success. But those supporters rarely receive recognition themselves. The CCC Awards aim to give these

unsung heroes their flowers and celebrate their invaluable contributions.”

Hay – who credits his late mother, Melody, and wife, Nikki, as key supporters in his own journey – said the awards focus on three pillars: community, corporate, and culture.

“Community is about feeling connected and supported,” he explained. “Corporate celebrates those organisations driving inclusive growth, and culture reflects the creativity and individuality that shape who we are.”

RESPONSIBILITY The event has already attracted the backing of major institutions, with HSBC, the BBC, and the Financial Times announced as ‘Participating Organisations.’ Their support underscores the growing commitment to recognising grassroots impact and fostering social responsibility.

Shauna Roper, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at HSBC, explained the bank’s involvement: “The CCC Awards made me reflect on who I am and how I got to where I am today, but the most important reflection I had was that I didn’t do it on my own. That’s why HSBC is proud to partner with the CCC Awards – because we believe in celebrating individuals who uplift others to drive meaningful change.”

The BBC echoed this sentiment, with Annisha Taylor, Head of DE&I Business Partnering, adding: “This initiative is so important.

We should always pause to recognise the unsung heroes across all communities because their stories remind us that we can achieve anything and everything together.”

SUPPORT: Mahari Hay, co-founder of the CCC Awards

FUNNY BUSINESS: Award-winning comedian Thanyia Moore has been announced as the host of the Community, Corporate and Culture (CCC) Awards

The Financial Times, serving as one of the event’s media partners, highlighted its alignment with the CCC Awards’ mission.

Sharold Palmer, Head of Digital Publishing, said: “The Financial Times is proud to support the inaugural Community, Corporate and Culture Awards. These awards combine ambition, achievement, and impact, values we deeply hold, and they recognise the importance of fostering inclusive cultures and uplifting communities.”

In addition to celebrating individual achievements, the

CCC Awards aim to inspire others by sharing the stories of those being honoured.

“Ultimately, the goal is to reconnect people with the spirit of community,” Hay said. “When we share these inspiring stories on social media, I believe they will engage and motivate others to make a difference, not just within the Black community, but across all communities.”

The CCC Awards will feature 16 categories across its three pillars. The Community pillar recognises individuals and groups who promote inclusivity and unity. The Corporate pillar celebrates businesses making

tangible societal impacts.

Finally, the Culture pillar honours those shaping creative and cultural landscapes.

As the event approaches, organisers hope the awards will spark a national conversation about the value of recognising and uplifting those who dedicate themselves to the success of others. With a dynamic host like Thanyia Moore and the support of prestigious partners, the CCC Awards are poised to make a lasting impact. l Tickets are on sale now at www.thecccawards.com

BLACK Seed VC, a London-based venture capital firm dedicated to investing in Black founders, has won the 2025 Startups 100 DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Award.

The award celebrates companies and founders committed to championing diversity and tackling systemic inequities in business.

The trailblazing startup also secured the 41st spot in the 2025 Startups 100 Index, the UK’s longestrunning list of the country’s most promising new businesses.

Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur and activist Karlo Lokko, pictured above, Black Seed VC is Europe’s first and only Black-led venture fund exclusively supporting Black founders. Its mission is to close the glaring funding gap that has stifled innovation in underrepresented communities.

“This gap in funding represents a significant opportunity to drive meaningful change and foster innovation,” said Lokko.

The challenges Black founders face in securing funding are stark.

Over the past decade, only 0.24 per cent of venture capital funding in the UK has been allocated to Black founders, with just two per cent going to all-female founding teams. Black Seed VC aims to change that by providing access to capital and empowering entrepreneurs historically overlooked by investors.

OPPORTUNITIES Despite early challenges in raising capital due to its limited track record, Black Seed VC has secured significant support from prominent backers, including M&G Catalyst and Atomico. It has also partnered with NatWest Bank on initiatives like “Lyan’s Den”, which offers workshops, networking opportunities, and pitch events to promote entrepreneurship.

Zohra Huda, Editor of Startups.co.uk, praised Black Seed VC’s impact. “It’s both depressing and impressive that Black Seed VC is the first and only Black-led venture fund in Europe.

By spotlighting businesses like this, the Startups 100 Index highlights inspirational founders such as Karl Lokko who refuse to accept the status quo,” Huda said.

The Startups 100 Index, run by Startups.co.uk, evaluates the UK’s best small businesses based on financial performance, innovation, market opportunity, and other criteria.

As well as celebrating business success, the index fosters a community of entrepreneurs.

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 13

News

TRIBUTES PAID TO ANTI-CRIME CAMPAIGNER

FORCE FOR CHANGE : Patsy McKie began campaigning against violent crime after her son Dorrie’s death

FEBRUARY 2

Patsy McKie, one of the founders of the Mothers Against Violence group, was hailed as an inspiration

T

RIBUTES have poured in for Patsy McKie, a pioneering community leader and one of the co-founders of Mothers Against Violence (MAV) who passed away last month. She was 76.

The campaigner dedicated 25 years of her life to supporting young people and tackling gang violence.

Colleagues who worked with her at MAV said her passing left a profound void in Manchester’s inner-city communities and beyond, where her efforts transformed countless lives.

Patsy’s journey as an activist began in the wake of personal tragedy. Her youngest son, Dorrie, was just 20 years old when he was fatally shot in Hulme in 1999.

His death, one of three fatal shootings in Manchester over a 10-day period, galvanized her into action. Despite no one being convicted of Dorrie’s murder, Patsy channelled her grief into founding MAV, a charity aimed at preventing gun and knife crime through education, mentoring, and community outreach.

“I just love people because God says we must love one another.

If we do, then things are going to be changed. That’s what’s really missing from our world more than anything else,” Patsy said in a 2019 interview.

Her words encapsulated the faith and hope that fuelled her work. Under Patsy’s leadership, MAV grew into a formidable force for change.

The organisation provided mentoring support, educational workshops, counselling, and advocacy for young people at risk of falling into gang culture.

MAV’s impact extended beyond Manchester, forming alliances with groups in Birmingham, London, Nottingham, Huddersfield, and Leeds to address gun violence on a national level.

In a statement on the MAV website, the charity paid tribute to Patsy’s legacy. It said: “She was a visionary leader, a true inspiration to us all. Her passion and dedication built the

foundation of our organisation.

Patsy’s legacy will live on through the work we do and the values she instilled in us. She will be deeply missed.”

MAV has announced plans to honour Patsy’s memory by raising funds for mental health and dementia causes – issues close to her heart.

Tributes were paid in Manchester and beyond.

Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, described Patsy as “an outstanding community activist”.

MP Lucy Powell called her “a leading figure in the Hulme and Moss Side community,” adding: “She will be remembered as a community leader who really made a difference in tackling gang violence in Manchester.”

Patsy’s work with MAV not only provided practical support but also served as a powerful example of grassroots activism.

The charity’s origins trace back to a meeting of mothers in south Manchester. Their collective determination led to the founding of MAV, MARCH In June 2001, MAV organised a city-wide march against gun crime. Her unwavering commitment to her mission was reflected in her tireless efforts to engage with young people and families affected by violence.

In a 2022 BBC interview, she spoke about the devastating ripple effects of violent crime: “You have the families left behind to walk through the rest of their lives — that needs to be brought through to young people as well, because I don’t think they think about that.”

Patsy’s faith was a cornerstone of her activism. It gave her the strength to transform personal loss into a lifelong mission to uplift others.

Patsy McKie’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will endure through the lives she touched. Her vision of hope and unity remains a guiding light for those continuing the fight against violence.

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The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN Be part of an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the trailblazers redefining excellence in community impact, corporate responsibility, and cultural innovation. The inaugural Community, Corporate, and Culture Awards promises an incredible night of inspiration, connection, and celebration.

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14 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Advertorial

PERSONALISED MEDICINE FOR THE UK – BY THE CARIBBEAN Introducing CariGenetics – research dedicated to the Caribbean genome

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ARIGENETICS is proud to be the world’s first research company dedicated to exploring the unique genetic makeup of Caribbean people.

Founded by award-winning geneticist Dr Carika Weldon, CariGenetics is pioneering genetic research to address critical health disparities and empower communities across the Caribbean with personalised medicine.

One of its flagship initiatives, the Caribbean Breast Cancer Whole Genome Pilot Study, focused on understanding the genetic factors contributing to inherited breast cancer among women of Caribbean ancestry in Bermuda.

This study decoded the genetic blueprint of this underrepresented population, finding genetic mutations in genes not normally looked at for breast cancer that were prevalent in this small island population.

This has paved the way for earlier detection through tailored diagnostics that now include the unique genetic mutation driving their breast cancer disease. By working with pharmaceutical companies, this work now looks to bring improved treatments whilst targeted prevention strategies can now be formulated by working with government.

Building on the success of its breast cancer study, CariGenetics has recently launched their Power of 1000: Caribbean Prostate Cancer Genetics Study, an equally vital project aimed at identifying genetic markers to improve prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options for Caribbean men, the demographic dying the most from this disease worldwide.

CariGenetics, led by Dr Weldon, has been widely recognised for their groundbreaking work.

And Dr Weldon, who was in the UK last month speaking at The Global Geonomics Confer-

ence in London, is no stranger to the UK. She received her Bachelor of Science honours degree in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Leicester, then went on to complete her Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry at the same university.

In 2015, Dr Weldon became the youngest full-time Lecturer in Biomedical and Medical Sciences at De Montfort University in the UK. In November 2018, Dr Weldon returned to full-time research, working as a Research Scientist within the Oxford Genomics Centre at the University of Oxford.

Dr Weldon was named Woman of the Year 2022, Bermudian of the Year 2023, and Entrepreneur of the Year 2024, while CariGenetics has earned accolades, including the Global Science Award for Excellence in Clinical Science, and the “Best Campaign by a Healthcare Brand” in Chief Marketer’s prestigious 2024 Campaigns of the Year Awards for the “Get in the Ring” campaign tied to its breast cancer research.

The company’s innovative efforts have garnered attention from major platforms, including features in Essence magazine, Black Enterprise, US Today and LA Weekly.

CariGenetics continues to champion health equity by bringing cutting-edge research to the Caribbean. From decoding genomes to inspiring the next generation of scientists, its mission is to ensure that every individual has access to the benefits of personalised medicine.

Together, we can build a healthier, more informed future for our region. n To learn more about CariGenetics and our initiatives, visit www.carigenetics.com and or contact CariGenetics UK Director Titus Johnson, Titus@carigenetics.com

GROUNDBREAKING: Entrepreneur and biochemical scientist Dr Carika Weldon (also inset) founded CariGenetics to empower the communities of the Caribbean with medicine that’s personalised to their genetic code

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 23

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16 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Opinion

Daniella Maison

Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion

RECLAIMING YOURSELF IN THE WORKPLACE Fighting against expectations of behaviour and skewed views means less time to be ourselves

POTENTIAL: Recent research has found that while the workplace offers opportunities to Black women, it often damages their self-esteem (photo: Getty Images)

FEBRUARY marks Black History Month in America.

Whilst the experiences and perspectives of Black people in the UK are different from those in the USA, we often find a profound resonance with African Americans.

The echoes of history are universal; they ripple across the diaspora, binding us in a fabric woven from the threads of colonialism.

The theme of Black History Month 2025 is the workplace.

When I reflect on some of our own elements of female Blackness in the workplace, it remains a realm that, while filled with potential, has exacted a heavy toll on the self-esteem, self-identity and self-worth of Black and brown women.

A damning recent report by the Fawcett Society evidences the harmful, pervasive and entrenched racism that women of colour are forced to endure at every stage of our career journey, with 75 per cent having experienced racism at work and 27 per cent having suffered racial slurs.

According to a report by the consultants Inclusive Employers, 31 per cent of Black women report being unfairly passed over for or denied a promotion at work; this rose to over 50 per cent of disabled Black women.

Over 50 per cent of Black women in the UK quit jobs due to racial inequalities. Half of Black women in senior positions have resigned due to racism.

The workplace often poses distinct challenges for Black and brown women, including systemic biases, misogynoir, microaggressions, and the pressures of underrepresentation.

These experiences gradually result in the internalisation of negative narratives, causing our selfworth to become linked to how

we are treated in the professional domain.

We begin to see ourselves through a skewed perspective, feeling inadequate, and develop a deep need to continuously prove our worth.

The stereotype of the hypersensitive, angry Black woman is particularly entrenched and problematic, adding to

It is a revolutionary act to assert our rights to be seen, to be heard, and to be valued.

Not just for what we do, but for who we are

the challenges we face in the workplace.

The relentless pressure to conform to external expectations frequently restricts Black women from prioritising our own needs and ambitions. Consequently, our sense of freedom (to be vulnerable, to rest, and to seek joy) becomes constrained.

We find ourselves troubleshooting microaggressions and reeling from the institutional gaslighting that accompanies them. We find ourselves suppressing our responses as we fret over being seen as too fiery, too emotional, or too ‘dramatic’.

We find ourselves preoccupied with the flies in the ointment to the extent that it hinders us from fully embracing our potential.

We get caught in a paradoxical dance, where we must embody compassion and humility while simultaneously exuding assertiveness and confidence.

Unaddressed, these traumas instill patterns of self-doubt, feelings of impostorism, and a sense of overcompensation that

tells us we have to ‘work twice as hard’. Our mental health is sapped by feelings of powerlessness and stress and anxiety, which make us feel both physically and emotionally unsafe.

TRAUMA This issue is so timeworn that it has become a historical and intergenerational trauma. So much so that young Black people are changing their names and don’t feel comfortable wearing their natural hair, a new study has revealed. Some 22% of young Black people reported changing their name on a job application to improve their chances of success, according to the largest ever survey of Black Gen Z talent in the UK conducted by recruitment marketing agency, TapIn. The burden should not be on Black women to adapt, but on institutions to finally address their systemic failures. We need to see clear, actionable recommendations for employers, trade unions, and policymakers addressing the need for workplaces where Black

women can feel safe, valued, and supported to thrive. Organisations must tackle discrimination from an intersectional perspective, as merely focusing on anti-racism is insufficient.

Management and staff need to be educated and trained, accountability needs to be applied, racism needs to be rooted out from the top down. It’s time for the talking shop to shut up shop, now.

In the meantime, focusing on our own healing processes is vital. As we do so, we can start to disentangle our sense of worth, identity and confidence from our professional experiences. To understand that our worth isn’t tied to our job title, salary, or how others perceive us. Instead, it is an intrinsic part of who we are.

Everyday, we navigate spaces imbued with both overt and insidious biases, where our voices are muffled and our worth is obscured. To reclaim our selfworth is to declare, in no uncertain terms, that we are not here to be mere shadows of our potential.

The brilliance we bring, the

unique perspectives shaped by our lived experiences, are not token contributions, they are essential to the core of any thriving environment.

It is a revolutionary act to assert our rights to be seen, to be heard, and to be valued.

Not just for what we do, but for who we are. In this reclamation, we not only uplift ourselves but also carve out a space for future generations – reminding them that their existence is a profound testament to excellence in a world that often tries to deny it.

We deserve to work in environments that champion our rightful place at the table.

We are not merely participants in the workforce; we are the architects of change, the bearers of innovation, and the embodiment of progress.

For when Black women recognise our inherent value, we remind the world we are powerful, we are worthy, and we will not be silenced.

WRITER, ACTIVIST AND AUTHOR DANIELLA MAISON’S NEW BOOK, THE N WORD, PUBLISHED BY AUSTIN MACAULAY, IS OUT NOW.

FEBRUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 17

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

All Shades of Brown: Empowering Creatives from Underrepresented Backgrounds in the UK

O

pportunities for creatives from the global majority in the UK remain far too scarce, leaving many Black, Asian, and minority ethnic artists without the resources, networks, or visibility needed to thrive.

Despite the undeniable talent within these communities, they make up less than 12% of the UK’s creative industry, with a staggering 23% earning significantly less than their peers. In a landscape like this, spaces that foster growth and connection are not just valuable—they’re essential. That’s where the All Shades of Brown for Creatives Conference comes in.

The Power of Representation On 27th February 2025, DMU The Venue in Leicester will host a groundbreaking event designed to inspire, empower, and elevate creatives from underrepresented backgrounds. The All Shades of Brown for Creatives Conference isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of diversity and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when opportunities are made accessible.

Learn from the Greats Headlining are two extraordinary figures in the arts: Pogus Caesar and Gaylene Gould. Caesar, a renowned photogra-

pher, and activist, brings decades of experience navigating the challenges of the creative industry while staying true to his vision. Gould, a cultural strategist, and curator has redefined what it means to create a sustainable and impactful career in the arts. Together, they’ll share personal stories of struggle, triumph, and the winding journey to success, offering invaluable lessons on resilience, creativity, and purpose.

Panels, Mentorship, and Hands-On Learning The conference offers an agenda packed with learning and networking opportunities: Highlights include: • Accessibility Panel: Multi-disciplinary artists like Christopher Samuel and n:u will discuss how disability and queer politics intersect with the arts, emphasising inclusivity.

• Mentorship Sessions: Guidance from experts like Raksha Patel and Saziso Phiri will help attendees refine their goals and navigate their careers with confidence.

• Workshops: Interactive sessions include performance art with Jeanefer Jean-Charles MBE and upskill sessions from Pasha Kincaid and more • Live Art: Create Not Destroy will

showcase their creative process live, giving attendees a chance to see artistry in action.

Practical Tools for Success Funding remains a significant barrier.

Representatives from Arts Council England and Art Reach will be on hand to provide practical advice on securing financial support for projects.

Why You Should Attend The All Shades of Brown for Creatives Conference is more than just a networking event; it’s a platform to reshape the creative landscape.

By attending, you’ll: • Gain insights from industry leaders who’ve turned challenges into opportunities.

• Build meaningful relationships with mentors and fellow creatives.

• Access tools and strategies to overcome systemic barriers.

• Be part of a movement championing diversity and equity in the arts.

This is your chance to invest in your future, find your community, and leave with the inspiration and resources to succeed.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Secure your spot at the All Shades of Brown for Creatives Conference and be part of the change that’s redefining the UK arts scene.

Tickets available on Eventbrite. Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Arts Council England.

Culture Comics Graphic Novel Competition for Ages 12-18 Attention Young Artists & Storytellers! The Culture Comics Graphic Novel Competition is soon ending on March 2nd, 2025, at Midnight. But don’t worry, if you are aged 12-18 you still have time to answer the prompts “Black Culture is…” and “Why Vote?” to give us your perspective and express your voice. The top 50 winners will get to attend an exclusive workshop with Comics Laureate Bobby Joseph, have their work published, and featured in an exhibition.

But don’t wait too long, get your submissions in now!

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18 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Dotun Adebayo

Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion

Rate him or hate him - you can’t ignore him!

COULD THIS MAN BE AFRICA’S PRESIDENT? Donald J. Trump has already got one foot in the door in Greenland so don’t be surprised if he comes knocking in Nigeria

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ADIES AND gentlemen, please rise to welcome the next president of the United States of Africa — Donald J. Trump.

Yes, it’s just a thought at this stage but while you are all laughing at the very idea that Trump could become president of a United States of Africa, just hold on one minute. Hear me out.

If Trump is willing to pay a lump sum for a frozen ice land which is only green for one month a year and nobody wants to go and live there anyway, then imagine how much more desirable Africa would be. Of course, he would have to pay a premium.

Africa doesn’t come cheap.

A trillion dollars for Greenland surely converts to at least a trillion trillion for Africa as a job lot.

I mean you’re talking 54 countries. But whereas a trillion for Greenland equates to $20 million for each man, woman and child of the 57,000 inhabitants (if the Danish colonialists don’t manage to commandeer some of the profits for their greedy selves) on the cold island, every man, woman and child of Africa’s vast continental population will have to settle for less, especially when we factor in the chunk of money that will end up in Swiss banks when the money grabbers amongst the continent’s elite get a sniff of it.

And then what about us? We who comprise the worldwide African diaspora, what will be our AT RISK: Recent gentrification in Brixton has displaced Black communities from the area, a pattern also seen in places like Moss Side and Handsworth and a potential risk if Trump decided to invest in Africa

NO LAUGHING MATTER: While it seems laughable, if Trump values Greenland, imagine Africa’s desirability to the new US President. Its vast resources, potential, and appeal make it a far more attractive proposition, says Dotun Adebayo

share of an African fire sale? It’s our birthright. What was it that Bob Marley told us we must do for our rights?

Africa is for Africans at home and abroad, Marcus Garvey declared. That means we’re part of the decision-making, even if Africans at home don’t see it that way nowadays. But whether we get a say in the sale or not, we deserve a slice of the African cake — just for old time’s sake.

Now I see you’re not taking this seriously but hold on just one more minute. Remember back in the seventies and eighties when nobody would touch Harlem, New York with a bargepole.

Manhattan 125th Street was the cut-off, everything north of that was a wasteland of run-down and burnt-out tenement blocks where African-Americans lived almost exclusively.

DESIRABLE But one man saw this as an opportunity to make a lot of money off the boyz-n-da-hood.

Suddenly huge placards dotted the uptown landscape with the declaration: ‘This land/building has been bought by Donald J. Trump.’ At the time I didn’t know who Donald J. Trump was and my good friend Ron McBee (drummer with Sun Ra amongst others) told me: “Oh, you will do.”

Like it or lump it, Trump transformed Harlem into one of the most desirable places to live

(photo: Getty Images)

in New York today. It meant that a lot of the Black people and the Black heritage disappeared (in Trump’s case he was even taken to court over alleged discrimination against Black tenants) in the same way that we’ve seen historical Black neighbourhoods disappear in Britain to the ‘ethnic cleansing’ that is euphemistically described as gentrification.

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t mind the gentrification as long as we can be part of it.

COOL I, for one, prefer Brixton today to what it was like in the seventies and eighties when I lived there and in Hackney which had a similar edgy vibe (it’s funny how that word that once meant ‘threatening’ in reference to a neighbourhood now means that the place is really cool and happening — which ironically reflects the transformation of the neighbourhoods from nearly allBlack to nearly spot-the-Black).

It’s nicer and safer in those ends now than it was then, it’s

I know for a fact that if you asked people in Nigeria whether they would like to be the 51st state of America, they would bite both your hands off just a shame that more of our people can’t afford to live there no more. Moss Side, Handsworth and Chapeltown have all gone the same way. And that might end up being the case if Donald Trump puts in an offer for Africa.

He might want to go country by country because I know for a fact that if you asked people in Nigeria whether they would like to be the 51state of America, they would bite both your hands off.

After the mismanagement of that West African country over

the last 65 years since so-called independence, not to talk of the huge oil reserves that the country is blessed with, many Nigerians are on £50 a week or less. This is why the country is 33 out of Africa’s 54 in good governance.

ATTENTION You go and ask the average Nigerian if they would like to tie their inflationary Naira to the US dollar and see what they say. And then ask them if they would mind having US passports. See what they say. Even if it means being governed from Washington. See what they say.

Now that I have finally caught your attention, please don’t say this could never happen because we said that about Greenland just a few weeks before Christmas.

Now look where we are. And Trump’s got his eye on Canada too.

And what’s to say that he won’t stop there? Look at his old mate Vladimir Putin. He’s an old school conqueror from the days that conquering was a way of acquiring huge wealth relatively quickly.

Putin’s made trillions from conquering huge chunks of Ukraine. But Trump is smarter.

Why spend trillions in war to get trillions? Why go through all the death and destruction when you can just make an offer that even Volodymyr Zelensky cannot refuse? That’s what the Chinese have been doing across Africa for years. They have been buying up African countries on the sly all this time and there has been little opposition. And now everybody wants a piece of the action.

In this modern scramble for Africa, every country has its price.

Nigeria — name yours. l Dotun Adebayo, Britain’s

most celebrated Black broadcaster, is known as the King of the Nighttime Airwaves. All views here are his own. Listen to him overnight on BBC 5 Live from 1-5am Saturday mornings - Monday mornings & 1am 4am on BBC Radio London (Wednesday to Friday mornings). Follow him on X: @radiodotun

FEBRUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 19

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20 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

LEGENDARY CARMEN MUNROE MADE A DAME

Leading figures pay tribute to the 92-year-old star of stage and screen who has been honoured for services to drama in the New Year Honours list. By Vic Motune

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EADING FIGURES have paid tribute to Dame Carmen Munroe, who has been made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the New Year Honours list for her outstanding services to drama.

The 92-year-old actress, best known for her iconic role as Shirley Ambrose in the Channel 4 sitcom Desmond’s, was recognised for a career spanning six decades.

The accolade has sparked admiration from prominent voices in the arts and media, who hailed her as a trailblazer and a pioneer for Black representation on stage and screen.

Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE DL revealed to The Voice that she had personally nominated Dame Carmen for the honour.

“When I realised that I was the only Black dame connected with the theatre and media industry, I felt compelled to change that by nominating Carmen Munroe because she is a woman who has been a trailblazer over the decades,” she said.

LEGACY “It is so important that as a community we support people like Carmen, who has had an illustrious career which spans almost six decades. Her lasting legacy inspires the new generation of Black

“Carmen Munroe is a woman who has been a trailblazer over the decades”

- Baroness Floella Benjamin

actors and directors because she is responsible for unselfishly changing their lives and those involved in all elements of theatre and television production.

“Dame Carmen Munroe has literally paved the way, and we are now standing on her shoulders.”

Dame Carmen’s remarkable journey began in 1932 in Guyana, where she was born before moving to Britain in 1951 to study optometry.

However, her passion for acting led her to join the West Indian Students’ Drama Group, setting her on the path to an illustrious career.

Her professional stage debut came in 1962 at London’s

Wyndham’s Theatre in Tennessee Williams’ Period of Adjustment. She went on to perform in major West End productions, including Alun Owen’s There’ll Be Some Changes Made and George Bernard Shaw’s The Apple Cart.

DESERVED Dame Carmen was also a leading figure in Black British theatre. She appeared in seminal plays such as Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun and James Baldwin’s The Amen Corner.

In 1986, she co-founded the Talawa Theatre Company with Mona Hammond, Yvonne Brewster, and Inigo Espegel to combat the marginalisation of

Black actors. Talawa has since staged over 50 award-winning productions across the UK. Elaine Barton, Chair of Talawa Theatre, also expressed her delight at Dame Carmen’s recognition, telling The Voice: “As Chair of Talawa Theatre, I am thrilled at the wonderful news of Dame Carmen Munroe’s richly deserved recognition for her immeasurable services to drama.

“Undoubtedly a trailblazer, for many of us she will always be the beloved Shirley in Desmond’s on TV, only one aspect of her impressive and varied body of work.

“I had the immense pleasure of meeting Dame Munroe at the memorial for the late Mona

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 21

News Feature ADMIRATION: Dame Carmen Munroe at the Mona Hammond OBE Evening of Celebration event (photo: Ellie Kurttz

A life in the spotlight...

Photography)

ENDURING TALENT: Clockwise from above left, Dame Carmen Munroe stars as ‘Shaundra’ in the TV sitcom From a Bird’s Eye View in 1971; the actress poses for a portrait in London, 1970; Dame Carmen is best known for playing the barber’s wife in the Peckham-based sitcom Desmond’s; in this 1991 Voice interview the star discusses some of the key influences on her life and career (photos: Getty Images/BBC)

Hammond OBE. Now, at 92 years young, Dame Carmen’s contribution to drama is manifold, and Talawa salutes her as one of the four fabulous founding mothers of Talawa Theatre almost 40 years ago.”

VERSATILE While Desmond’s remains a beloved part of her legacy, Dame Carmen’s television career is vast, with appearances in Doctor Who, The Persuaders!, and the groundbreaking BBC sitcom Mixed Blessings.

Her later roles in The Dumping Ground and Holby City further cemented her

INSPIRATION: Dame Carmen Munroe’s six-decade career has inspired generations of Black actors and directors, says Baroness Floella Benjamin

status as a versatile and enduring talent.

Her impact extends beyond acting. In 2007, Dame Carmen was awarded an OBE for her contributions to drama, and in 2023, King Charles III selected her as one of 10 Windrush pioneers whose portraits were commissioned to mark the 75th anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush.

Baroness Benjamin highlighted Dame Carmen’s deep commitment to nurturing Black talent.

“She became acutely aware of the lack of opportunities for Black actors to get acting and theatre experience, so she co-founded

Talawa in 1985,” she said. “It has not only become the leading Black theatre company in the country, but it has nurtured much of the Black talent that we are familiar with today, both in the theatre and on television.”

DIVERSITY Dame Carmen’s legacy of contribution to British life and campaigning for diversity also resonates through her family.

Her eldest sister, Daphne Steele, broke barriers as the NHS’s first Black matron and was honoured with a blue plaque earlier this year.

Reflecting on the celebrated actor’s enduring influence, Baroness Benjamin said: “She

has been socially conscious throughout her life and has made an enormous difference to the theatre and television industry.

Many of her television roles are fondly remembered, as she was constantly in our living rooms and part of our cultural experience.

“Dame Carmen Munroe is now also part of theatre and television nobility.”

Dame Carmen’s damehood underscores her remarkable contributions to British drama and her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts, a true pioneer whose work has changed the cultural landscape for generations to come.

22 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

News

OUR LIVES LEFT IN TATTERS

Windrush scandal’s mental health impact laid bare in new study. By Vic Motune

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NEW ACADEMIC study has highlighted the devastating mental health consequences of the Windrush scandal, revealing a legacy of trauma, depression, and chronic stress among survivors and their families.

Published in the SSM – Mental Health journal, the study analysed 96 testimonies of survivors and uncovered the long-term psychological damage caused by hostile immigration policies that stripped individuals of their British identity and rights.

Co-authored by Karlie Janes, Patrick Vernon, Dawn Estefan, Farah Sheibani, Glenda Caesar, and Rochelle A. Burgess, the study identifies a “double violation” suffered by survivors, who were dehumanised through policies that rendered British citizens “illegal.”

The findings reveal that this process fractured social worlds, leaving individuals in limbo and triggering significant emotional distress.

Survivors reported symptoms linked to anxiety disorders and depression, compounded by financial losses, homelessness, and disrupted familial relationships.

“The Windrush scandal established a complex living environment that places individuals at risk for significant mental health difficulties,” the authors

ANGER: The Windrush scandal prompted protests all over the country; above, Windrush generation members arriving in Britain in 1948 (photos: Getty Images) for me and their brother when I couldn’t.”

The study’s authors argue that addressing this trauma requires more than individual mental health interventions. They advocate for moving the compensation scheme eventually secured a six-figure pay- trates the deep mental health toll out. But she insists no amount of from the Home Office, which described in the study. Caesar’s son, policies rooted in social justice, including restoring economic losses, money can repair the damage. “The also a Windrush victim, suffered many survivors have criticised as rebuilding social connections, money doesn’t come close to mak- anxiety and depression before retraumatising. and removing the compensation ing up for the trauma I endured,” One of the study’s co-authors, accepting a six-figure compensascheme from the Home Office’s she told The Voice in an interview Glenda Caesar, a Windrush tion offer — not because it was scandal survivor and director of the last year. adequate but because he could no control.

“Survivors’ accounts make it Windrush National Organisation, longer bear the protracted stress. said. “It shattered livelihoods, clear that their sense of self was knows these struggles all too well.

The scandal also pushed Caesar IMPACT social relationships, and a sense of shattered when their citizenship Brought to the UK from Domiherself to the brink.

The campaigner also emphaidentity, leaving survivors and their nica as an infant in the early 1960s, sised the ongoing impact on was questioned,” the authors wrote.

“When my youngest became descendants grappling with lifelong Caesar, above left, faced rejection younger generations, pointing out depressed and wouldn’t talk to me, “The country they called home reracial trauma.” jected their presence, leaving them when applying for a passport. The I contemplated suicide,” Caesar that children born before 1988 The study also highlighted how feeling dehumanised and excluded.” admitted. “I felt I had placed him fallout was life-changing: she lost remain entangled in the scandal. delays in resolving cases exacerbate her job at the NHS, was denied As the Windrush scandal con“A lot of young people are strug- in a situation he should never have harm, with survivors experiencing benefits, and spent over a decade tinues to cast a long shadow over been in.” gling to have their status recogwhat the authors describe as “psy- unable to work.

Caesar credits her other children Black British communities, Caesar nised as UK citizens because of the chological weathering” — a form of warns that the government’s failure Her battle with the compensawith pulling her through. “My hostile environment legislation,” sustained stress similar to patterns tion scheme underscores the to act decisively risks perpetuating she said. “This has affected not just eldest and only daughter, born observed in Black communities in inadequacy of current measures. deaf, shared her disability funds to the harm. “This isn’t just about the the first generation but also their the US. It calls for systemic changes Initially offered £22,000 — a sum ensure we could survive. My other past,” she said. “It’s about ensuring children and grandchildren.” to address this harm, including re- she described as an insult — Caesar Her family’s experience illuschildren became my lifelines, caring justice for future generations.”

UK BUSINESSES BRACED FOR IMPACT OF US ROLLBACK ON DIVERSITY INITIATIVES

SENIOR HR and C-suite professionals in the UK believe the rapid retreat from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes in the United States will have ripple effects on British workplaces, a new survey has revealed.

A study of 140 UK employers by Occupational Health Assessment found 69 per cent expect the shift in US policies under President Trump to influence DEI efforts in the UK. Trump recently signed an executive order placing all US government staff working on DEI

initiatives on paid administrative leave.

Steve Herbert, brand ambassador at Occupational Health Assessment, highlighted that major US companies, many with a significant UK presence, have already started rolling back DEI programmes. “This process began in mid-2024 and escalated rapidly as the presidential inauguration approached,” Herbert said.

He noted that these changes raise questions about their potential impact on workplace culture, productivity, and employee

wellbeing in the UK. The survey also revealed a divide in opinion among UK employers. While 53 per cent expressed continued support for equality and diversity policies, 37 per cent supported some rollback of DEI measures. This group included 32 per cent who felt certain aspects of DEI required adjustment, and five per cent who said DEI had already gone too far in British workplaces.

Conversely, 22 per cent of respondents said they wanted DEI initiatives strengthened, and 31

CONTROVERSIAL: New US President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order placing all US government staff working on DEI initiatives on paid administrative leave per cent believed current measures were “about right.”

However, only six per cent anticipated major changes

to UK workplaces as a result of the US rollback.

Magnus Kauders, managing director at Occupational

Health Assessment, warned that curtailing DEI initiatives in the UK could conflict with the government’s “Making Work Pay” agenda, which aims to boost workplace fairness and inclusivity.

Herbert added, “It will be interesting to see if US parent companies pressure their UK subsidiaries to follow suit. If so, this could significantly influence workplace policies and practices.”

Notable US companies scaling back DEI initiatives include Amazon, Meta, Ford, and McDonald’s, according to the report.

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 23

JERK FOOD TRADER IN STARRING ROLE

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HANDSWORTH-based Caribbean food trader is being celebrated in a new short film series that shines a spotlight on cultural and community champions in the West Midlands.

Adrian Alexander, the owner of West Midlands Jerk Centre (WMJC), is the focus of JERKMAN, a film exploring his journey as a food entrepreneur and his role in preserving and adapting Caribbean culinary traditions in Birmingham.

The film, directed by local filmmaker Carl Woods, premiered at a special event at Hockley Social Club, where WMJC is now a resident food trader.

JERKMAN is part of a series commissioned by the Jewellery Quarter venue to celebrate individuals driving civic pride and fostering community cohesion through their work.

Capturing Alexander’s professional and personal story, the film highlights how the 44-year-old

News

Filmmaker Woods, founder of storytelling project MADEBYBRUM, created JERKMAN to rewrite the narrative of Birmingham and the West Midlands by highlighting its cultural richness.

“Adrian’s story is a step toward challenging negative perceptions “That sets us apart. Even if I shared of the region,” said Woods. “He’s a third-generation British-Jamaican my ingredients, it would be built his reputation as a top-tier great community champion and a very difficult for anyone to recreate jerk food trader. voice for Handsworth. Spending a After serving an apprenticeship our flavour. It all comes down day filming with him – visiting his to ratios and the quality of the under renowned jerkman Tico old stomping grounds, the Wholeingredients.”

Notch, Alexander perfected his WMJC has played a pivotal role sale Markets in Aston, and his local craft over two decades, cooking at butchers on Soho Road – made carnivals and events across the UK. in elevating Hockley that very clear.”

Social Club’s reputation as a “Food trading was something I The launch event featured cultural hub, attracting food and was destined to do,” said Alexanmore than just the film screening. JERKMAN: Adrian Alexander, left, owner of West Midlands community enthusiasts from der. “I didn’t initially realise that it Attendees, including community was my calling, but I’ve always felt across the region.

Jerk Centre, with filmmaker Carl Woods (photo: Hockley Social Club) leaders and creatives, sampled Alexander credits his family’s at ease when working with food, WMJC’s signature dishes, enjoyed broadcaster Nikki Tapper, delved local culture. “We’re committed to culinary heritage and Handsfamily, and friends.” into the importance of celebratcreating a space that reflects the Alexander’s journey began with worth’s vibrant community as key a DJ set by Jayson Wynters, and watched performances by poet Ray ing Handsworth’s role in shaping incredible city we’re in,” he said. influences in his career. modest tasks like rolling cutlery Ritess and singer-songwriter Call Birmingham’s identity.

“Celebrating the rich and vibrant “My family has been around in napkins, but he has since develJack Brabant, founder of DigCaribbean culture within Handsfood for as long as I can remember, Me Unique. oped his own unique marinades A panel discussion with Alexan- beth Dining Club and director of worth through JERKMAN was from catering to delivering food for and techniques.

Hockley Social Club, emphasised a fantastic way to mark WMJC’s “The best jerkers out there make major festivals like Simmer Down der, Woods, and writer-producer the significance of showcasing residency here.” their own marinade,” he explained. and Leeds Carnival,” he said.

Omari McCarthy, moderated by

Caribbean culinary vendor’s life story showcased in cultural short film series. By Vic Motune

24 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Midlands News

COUNCIL HAS ONE OF LOWEST DRUG-RELATED DEATH RATES Black Country borough leading the way in protecting the most vulnerable in society

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LEADING councillor from a West Midlands has spoken out following new data which reveals the authority has recorded one of the lowest rates of drug-related deaths in the country.

Councillor Jackie Taylor, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, said: “Every life lost remains a tragedy, and Sandwell’s commitment to innovative, life-saving solutions is making a real difference to people’s lives.

“Our community’s health and safety are our top priorities, and it’s encouraging to see Sandwell making such strides in reducing drug-related deaths. We will continue to work together, listening to our community and adapting our approach, to ensure that we protect the most vulnerable among us and save lives.”

Nationally, drug-related deaths are increasing, driven by a changing drugs market with stronger, contaminated supply.

Sandwell is bucking this trend with drug-related deaths falling in the Black Country borough. Work continues to bring overdoses and drug-related deaths down with help being made available all year round for those needing help.

Recent data published by the Office for National Statistics shows Sandwell’s drug-related death rate has fallen to 1.6 per 100,000 of the population – significantly lower than regional (6.3) and national (5.5) rates.

These low figures have been attributed to new ways of working and a whole-borough approach to provide help and support to people who use drugs.

This low rate of drug-related deaths is testament to the system-wide approach we have taken across the borough

The nationwide drugs market has been changing, with an emergence in increasingly dangerous drugs, including synthetic opioids which can be hundreds of times stronger than heroin. However, Sandwell has continued to adapt its approach, with services expanding harm reduction to keep residents safe amid these emerging challenges.

Sandwell’s success has been attributed to an approach which is grounded in proactive, community-based programmes.

This includes a new approach to outreach, which has led to more community engagement work and having a nurse out on the streets meeting people who use drugs across the borough and supporting them to access healthcare and treatment.

Natasha Simpson, Borough Manager for Cranstoun, which runs the drug and alcohol service in Sandwell, said: “This low rate of drug-related deaths is testament to the system-wide approach we have taken across the borough.”

PROACTIVE: Sandwell Councillor Jackie Taylor meets the team at Cranstoun

‘No recognition for Taylor’ AS SANDWELL Council celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, according to local opinion, a notable omission from the festivities was recognition of Cllr Taylor, the authority’s first-ever Black African Caribbean councillor.

Last year, the authority’s Cabinet Member for Adult Health and Well Being reached a milestone of her own, having clocked ten years’ service since her first election win in

2014. The last decade also saw Cllr Taylor break through another glass ceiling: in 2022 she became the first Black person to assume the role of deputy mayor in the borough.

Now representing the Greets Green and Lyng constituencies in West Bromwich, Cllr Taylor’s portfolio of roles includes Vice Chair of West Midlands Fabians and a school governor, also reaching out and mentoring young activists and councillors.

BRIG hosting series of events as it bids to make Birmingham ‘anti-racist city’ by 2035

LOOKING TO make good on its landmark summit last autumn, campaigners BRIG (Birmingham Racial Impact Group) is to host a series of events in its continued quest to ensure Birmingham becomes “an anti-racist city” by 2035.

The ten-year countdown to its ambitions began last month with an open evening to kick off its Race Detectives Search course — itself part of its ‘Seeking the Pioneers’ initiative which seeks to uncover and document the stories of Birmingham’s race activists from the 1950s to the present day.

Having struck a chord with students from across the county in its two years of development, applicants are now being shortlisted, with those who make the cut soon to begin training on the histories of the Black diaspora and the anti-racism movement in the UK; activism and its elements; conducting oral history interviews; using audio and camera equipment to interview a “notable pioneer from the 1950s to 1980s” and editing recorded interviews.

This is more than a discussion; it’s an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with individuals across generations, and reflect on how race shapes the stories of Birmingham

SUPPORT: Health campaigner Patrick Vernon was among the luminaries that signed BRIG’s pledge last year The Open Evening will be followed by a Young People’s Workshop on February 3 — an interactive workshop to engage youth, collecting their experiences and ideas towards creating places that are truly inclusive and racism-free. BRIG will quickly widen its focus to encompass

older citizens with an “intergenerational conversation,” on racial inequality in Birmingham — ‘Who’s City Is It?’ — on February 12.

A BRIG spokesperson said: “We are expecting a powerful evening of conversation and testimony as we bring

together different generations from Birmingham’s diverse communities to discuss racial inequalities, social justice, community and the future of the city.

This event offers a unique platform for people from minoritised backgrounds to share their stories and perspectives, allowing for deep conversations surrounding race, belonging, and identity in Birmingham.

Curated by journalist and author Gary Younge in collaboration with BRIG, plus

the likes of Birmingham Race Action Partnership, Warwick University and the University of Manchester, the event will feature the insights and experiences from a diverse panel of speakers exploring Birmingham’s journey, its intersection with race, and the power of community storytelling.

A BRIG spokesperson said: “This is more than a discussion; it’s an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with individuals across generations, reflect on how race shapes the stories and structures of Birmingham and celebrate the voices and experiences of its minority communities.”

These events are designed to capitalise on BRIG’s landmark summit last October, in which senior leaders from across the region including the West Midlands Mayoral Office, the city council and West Midlands Police plus a host of voluntary sector figures signed a pledge committing to BRIG’s 2023 vision.

Attendance at both events are free and bookable on Eventbrite.

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 25

If you have a story for the East or West Midlands, call /text Veron Graham on 07954 572 988, email veronpgraham@gmail.com, or find him on Facebook, LinkedIn and X

By Veron Graham INFLUENCE: Steel Pulse put Birmingham’s reggae scene on the map with debut album Handsworth Revolution

HONOURING A LEGEND

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HREE legendary names from reggae music will come together this month for a commemorative concert to recognise a landmark date in the genre’s history.

Basil Gabbidon, founder member of Birmingham’s iconic band Steel Pulse, will take the stage on February 6, which would have been the 80th birthday of Bob Marley, the man widely accredited with introducing reggae to the world.

At ‘Reggae Origins: Bob Marley and Handsworth Reggae,’ taking place at the Town Hall, Birmingham, Gabbidon will be backed by musicians from Birmingham Contemporary Music Group (BCMG) to perform brand new arrangements of renowned tracks from reggae’s rich history.

The producers behind this innovative hybrid, allBirmingham pairing are whetting local musical appetites with promises of rare grooves alongside Marley’s biggest songs in an evening celebrating the city’s contribution to reggae.

Steel Pulse put Birmingham’s reggae scene on the map with their debut album Handsworth Revolution, which spoke of their frustrations with 1970s society and the racism that was inherent in it. The group went on to support Bob Marley and the Wailers, before going on to a successful music career that garnered them a Grammy award.

BCMG will celebrate Bob Marley anniversary with special concert Gabbidon told the media: “I call Birmingham the centre of reggae music — we should big it up the best we can, it’s part of our history.

In this concert we tell the story of the origins and history of reggae as well as celebrating Bob Marley.

We’re performing some of my own original songs, a few Steel Pulse songs and a few songs that made reggae internationally loved.

“This is an interesting and dynamic collaboration between reggae and classical music.

My hope is that you’ll walk away thinking “yes, I’ve heard something really new and fresh — I’m glad I came!”

String players from BCMG will perform new works created especially for this concert, composed by Benjamin Graves, as well as new arrangements of Gabbidon’s songs Rising Sun and Oh Jah Jah for band and string quartet. Graves is a rising star in the classical music world, and his music has been commissioned and performed by London Symphony Orchestra, CBSO and Aldeburgh Festival.

Stephan Meier, Director of BCMG, added: “Basil approached me back in 2022 and drew my attention to the fact that some of reggae’s roots lie in French court

music — if you listen closely, you can identify the French Bourree dance rhythm in many songs.

Our composer Ben Graves has looked deeply into the origins of reggae and its links to European court music, notably in the works of the 18th century composer, abolitionist and former-slave, Ignatius Sancho. It’s fabulous to prepare this very special event joining forces with Basil Gabbidon that celebrates the rich musical tradition of reggae.”

BCMG was founded by musicians from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra in 1987, with Sir Simon Rattle as Founding Patron. Believing that music has the power to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together, it comprises an inclusive community of composers and musicians.

SHOW: Steel Pulse founder member Basil Gabbidon

Group hosts meetings to improve men’s health A GROWING Community Interest Company’s has established a rare safe space for men to discuss all matters health and wholeness in Birmingham.

Through monthly meetings and workshops, the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group is providing supportive environments for discussion and education while fostering a community-centred approach to health awareness and wellbeing.

Its second Annual Prostate Cancer

Awareness Evening, which took place recently at the group’s base in the Erdington area of the city, made good on the increasing national focus on the disease, which typically affects Black men at an earlier age and with more severity than men of other ethnic backgrounds.

The event featured presentations from Aidan Atkins of Tackle Prostate UK, Lindsay Thompson from Infopool, and Junior Hermans, Chair of Prostate Cancer UK Black

Men’s Health Advisory Group. The informative presentations addressed tell-tale signs and symptoms, common screening and testing methods, treatment choices and signposted sources of advice, support and resources, with personal accounts from local men on their journeys to prostate health.

“Knowledge is power, and we are committed to equipping our community with the information necessary to tackle prostate cancer effectively,”

said Atkins. Hermans added: “Prostate cancer isn’t just a men’s issue; it affects families and communities. By coming together to share knowledge and experiences, we can empower everyone to take proactive steps in their health journey.”

The group is hosting meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month between 7-9pm at the Highcroft Community Centre in Erdington.

For more, visit menshealth-wellbeing.co.uk

26 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

News

BRISTOL UNIVERSITY NAMES PARTNERS FOR £10M FUND

HISTORICAL WRONGS: Bristol University’s Reparative Futures initiative is aimed at addressing the legacies arising from the trafficking of enslaved African people and its own links with the slave trade (photo:

Community figures will ensure reparations project achieves meaningful change.

By Vic Motune

Getty Images)

T

HE UNIVERSITY of Bristol has appointed 25 community Accountability Partners to support its ambitious £10 million Reparative Futures programme, aimed at addressing systemic injustices linked to the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved African people.

Announced in November 2023, the programme is a 10-year initiative focused on redressing historical wrongs and promoting reparative justice within the university and beyond.

Planning for Reparative Futures began in February 2024, and these Accountability Partners bring substantial expertise and experience in areas such as education, health, culture, and youth opportunities, all of which are central to the programme’s goals.

They will play a crucial role in ensuring the programme’s actions have maximum impact, holding the university accountable for its commitments while fostering meaningful dialogue with communities of African descent.

“We’ve recognised that not everyone is fully versed in the complexi-

ties of reparatory justice,” said forms the foundation of Reparative Dr Marie-Annick Gournet, Academ- Futures, which aims to bring about ic Lead for the programme. a lasting cultural shift.

“Our goal is to build knowledge, Tracy O’Brien, one of the aptrust, and competence to deliver pointed partners, said: “Bristol has real interventions with sustainable, an awesome history, especially positive impacts on those affected within Black communities, where by the legacy of enslavement.” much knowledge comes from the The programme seeks to address elders. these ongoing injustices through a “Reparative Futures must be the series of targeted actions, such as start of a longer-term commitment expanding educational opportuni- to developing a strategy that is ties for individuals of Black heritage, informed by the Black community.” contextualising university buildings, O’Brien, a history teacher and and creating a community fund for advocate for Black British history, collaborative initiatives. will be integral in ensuring the proThe university’s commitment to gramme challenges the narrowness anti-racism, alongside the work of of the current historical narrative. its Anti-Racism Working Group, Vernon Samuels, an Olympian

network for collaboration across global communities.

Professor Evelyn Welch, ViceChancellor of the University of Bristol, highlighted the importance of listening and learning from affected communities.

“We must critically reflect on our past and actively work to create equitable outcomes,” she said. “The Accountability Partners will play a pivotal role in driving this transformation.”

Reparative Futures is also seeking to address broader issues of race equity in Bristol, with partners like Samuels drawing on their personal histories to continue the work of previous generations.

Samuels’ father played a key and community leader with exten- safeguarding historical archives. role in the Bristol Bus Boycott of sive experience in supporting young Additionally, it will fund communi- the 1960s, a pivotal moment in the people, expressed his excitement ty-led initiatives, including microcity’s history that challenged racial about the project. grants to support reparative justice discrimination.

“Reparative justice is about open- projects. The university also plans “I’m proud of my family’s legacy ing a door to give space to voices to produce educational resources and am now focusing my energy on that are often overlooked,” he said. and documentary films, such as furthering this cause,” he said.

“I’m here to ensure this initiative one about Dr Guy Bailey OBE, a Through this collaborative apisn’t reduced to box-ticking. We civil rights activist from Bristol. proach, the university aims to creneed meaningful, long-lasting In keeping with its principles of ate a sustainable programme that change, and I believe the universi- co-creation, the university is active- will have a meaningful impact on ty’s commitment to this work goes ly working with Black communities, education, health, and social equity beyond appearances.” both within and outside the institu- for generations to come.

The Reparative Futures protion, to shape the programme.

The Accountability Partners, with Dr Leighan Renaud, one of the gramme has identified key areas to their deep connection to local comaddress, including further research programme’s leaders, emphasised munities, will ensure that Reparainto the university’s historical ties that the research focus spans vari- tive Futures is not just a series of to slavery, developing the Bristol ous Caribbean landscapes and cul- symbolic gestures but a long-term Caribbean Studies Studio, and tures, creating a transdisciplinary commitment to real change.

FIRST SICKLE CELL NURSE HONOURED AT OPENING OF BLOOD DONATION CENTRE

A PLAQUE commemorating the lifesaving work of Dame Elizabeth Anionwu OM, the country’s first sickle cell nurse counsellor, was unveiled last month at London’s newest blood donor centre in Brixton.

The centre, located on Brixton’s bustling shopping street, aims to increase blood donations from Black heritage donors to treat sickle cell disease, the UK’s fastest-growing genetic disorder.

Blood donations from Black communities are crucial, as they are significantly more likely to have the rare ‘Ro’ blood type

required for sickle cell treatment.

The opening of the centre marks a critical step in addressing the urgent need for more Black blood donors and improving sickle cell care across London.

Speaking at the unveiling, Dame Elizabeth reflected on her pioneering career.

“It’s an honour to see the hard work of those who have strived to improve the care of people with sickle cell and thalassaemia recognised in this way,” she said. “When I became the country’s first specialist sickle cell nurse counsellor in the 1970s, the disease

RECOGNITION: Professor Dame Elisabeth Anionwu with the plaque and members of the P Positive choir was not well known or understood. Despite major advances, we still rely on the generosity of blood donors

from the Black community to make a lifesaving difference.”

The Brixton donor centre, developed in partnership

with community groups, features bespoke artwork by local artists, a ‘hero wall’ showcasing inspirational stories of Black donors and recipients, and consultation rooms named after iconic Brixton landmarks.

NHS Blood and Transplant Chief Executive Dr Jo Farrar said: “We worked closely with the community to create a centre that reflects Brixton’s spirit. It is an absolute honour to have Dame Elizabeth open the centre and celebrate her contributions.”

Brixton was chosen for its young and diverse population, offering significant

potential to boost Black heritage donors. In 2023/24, 210 blood donations were needed daily to treat sickle cell patients across England, with 160 of these used in London hospitals.

Centre Manager Rex Osei-Bonsu urged residents to give blood, highlighting the centre’s capacity for 1,000 weekly appointments.

“Each donation can save up to three lives. I encourage all potential donors to sign up today,” he said.

Register now and book an appointment at blood.co.uk, on the NHS Give Blood app or by calling 0300 123 23 23.

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 27

News

THE SHIPS HAVE SAILED Trinidad and Tobago removes Columbus’ fleet from its Coat of Arms. By Sinai Fleary

A

NEW Bill to remove Christopher Columbus ships from Trinidad and Tobago’s Coat of Arms has passed with unanimous support.

The National Emblems of Trinidad and Tobago (Amendment) Bill, 2025 passed with unanimous support of the government and the opposition in the Lower House, according to local news outlet CNC3.

The law will see Columbus’ three ships — Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria — replaced on the Coat of Arms with the Steelpan, which is national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.

The bill’s Clause 4 introduces the “gold Steelpan and its iconic two pan sticks” into the Coat of Arms.

CNC3 reported that Clause 5 ensures licences issued under the current act remain valid, with the former emblem allowed until January 1, 2026.

Renowned designer and jeweller Gillian Bishop will design the new Coat of Arms for the twinisland nation.

Time for change Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley made the announcement of the historic changes at a special People’s National Movement convention in August 2024.

The PM stated that the three Columbus ships on the twin-

HISTORIC MOVE: The steelpan drum will now feature on Trinidad and Tobago’s Coat of Arms; inset, Trinidad and Tobago’s Lower House has approved measures to change its Coat of Arms (photos: Getty Images)

island nation’s emblem is “substantial in how we see ourselves” and it is now time for change.

“You see them three Columbus ships in the emblem? They will go” said Rowley. “Since we have enough votes in Parliament to do it, I could announce now that as soon as the legislative adjustment is made — and that adjustment should be made before the 24th of September — we then over a six-month period will replace Columbus’ three ships, the Santa Maria, the Pinta, and the Niña, with the steelpan,” Mr Rowley said, as the audience clapped and cheered.

“And for logistical purposes, that will take place over a six-month period, allowing us to consume the stationery and other things we have in place and be replaced by our new intention which should signal that we are on our way to removing the colonial vestiges we have in our constitution, and I hope that we start with that and we end up getting up and no longer being squatters on the steps of the Privy Council,” he added.

The steelpan proudly traces its roots back to Trinidad and Tobago and was invented in the 1930s and 1940s in the Hills of Laventille, in Port of Spain.

The steelpan is the only new instrument invented in the 20th century.

PROFESSOR SIR HILARY BECKLES APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF UN UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (UWI), has been appointed as the Chairman/Chancellor of the United Nations University (UNU).

The appointment, announced at the UNU Governance Council meeting in Tokyo in December last year, will take effect in May 2025.

The role, which is honorary, involves guiding the UNU Council and supporting the

leadership of its Rector/ViceChancellor to maintain the institution’s global reputation.

This appointment coincides with the UNU’s 50th anniversary and reflects the Council’s confidence in Sir Hilary’s extensive experience in higher education and international development.

Sir Hilary has been an active contributor to the United Nations, serving in various roles such as Consultant for the UN Development Report

on Latin America and the Caribbean, Vice President of UNESCO’s Slave Routes Project, and joint Editor of Volume 9 of UNESCO’s General History of Africa series.

He has also addressed the UN General Assembly on issues including reparatory justice and the International Decade for People of African Descent.

Under his leadership, the University of West Indies (UWI) was recently desig-

nated as the global hub for Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) by the UN Academic Impact Committee. This recognition followed the launch of UWI’s International School for Development Justice, which focuses on postgraduate education related to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

In accepting the position, Sir Hilary expressed gratitude to the UNU Governance

Council, UN representatives, and other stakeholders, describing the appointment as a significant honour for UWI, the Caribbean, and emerging communities in the Global South.

The UNU, headquartered in Tokyo with research and teaching institutes worldwide, serves as a think tank and academic arm of the United Nations, addressing global challenges through research and innovation.

NEW APPOINTMENT: Sir Hilary Beckles

28 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Lyndon Mukasa Eye on the Diaspora

Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion

FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT Independent Black movements have shown we can have an effective voice

STANDING UP: Members of the Black Panthers protest in Paddington following police raids in London’s Notting Hill, August 1970. (photo: Albert Foster/Daily Mirror/ Mirrorpix via Getty Images)

I

N THE December 2024 edition of The Voice, I discussed why mainstream Black politicians in the West deliver very little progressive change for Black communities.

These politicians often uphold Western imperialism, offering representation without substantial change for Black communities. This “window dressing” fails to address global crises, from the cost of living to climate collapse. Leaders and corporations prioritise maintaining the status quo over meaningful reforms, reflecting the failure of liberal politics and capitalism to confront today’s challenges.

As wars rage in places like Sudan and Gaza, and climate catastrophe looms, no current leader in the liberal political organisations have a long history, as system appears prepared to address far back as 1925 with the West African these urgent, unprecedented global issues Students Union (WASU) that supported effectively.

African students facing discrimination as well as organising against imperialist Another way is possible Despite the pessimism that this reality policies by the British Government.

In 1938, WASU supported the gold may imply, hopelessness shouldn’t be the conclusion that is drawn from this article. cocoa hold-up campaign by funding For Black communities in the West, farmers in a massive strike for better there is a long history of independent working conditions and pay in the Gold progressive, alternative political Coast (modern Ghana). From the 1960s to movements that pushed society forward, the 1980s, there were thriving and active and often further than any mainstream political organisations in all areas from politician was ever able to do. Outside of environmental concerns to education.

Our best and brightest were channelled the West, countries across Africa and the Caribbean built grassroots movements in these areas. The North London West that fought for and pushed their countries Indian Association, along with the Caribbean Education Association, worked into political independence.

In Britain, independent Black to challenge the British education system

and spur the growth and development of Black supplementary schools across the country.

In the 1970s, the British Black Panther Party (BBPP) began grassroots organising around issues related to jobs, housing, healthcare and education. The BBPP also worked to challenge British imperialism and build class solidarity abroad.

This is something that wouldn’t be possible in the political mainstream.

The West Indian Standing Conference (WISC) is another independent political organisation formed in 1958 after the Notting Hill riots.

The WISC aimed to create policies that ended racial discrimination and in many ways played a big role in making

racism in Britain more difficult to perpetuate openly. Because of the WISC, bills such as the 1965 and 1976 Race Relation Acts were passed that made racial discrimination illegal.

What is possible By the 1980s and 1990s, attacks by the British state led to a decline in Black political organising. This decline shifted many in the Black community towards neoliberalism or disengagement from societal issues.

However, the civil rights enjoyed today weren’t granted by Parliament or “British values”, but were hard-won through independent Black political movements.

These movements, unrestrained by liberal politics, achieved more tangible gains than traditional electoral approaches.

Reclaiming this legacy is essential to revitalising effective Black political activism.

While figures like David Lammy, below left, or Trevor Phillips may argue that the Black community needs to become part of the system to change it, their own record after many decades of being part of the system tells a vastly different story.

Being part of the system means being dependent on it. What is needed is a reengagement with independent political movements as a means of pushing for a better society and world.

Black Lives Matter (BLM) in 2020 revealed that there is still a need for this, but as an organisation it lacked focus and couldn’t sustain its gigantic momentum.

We need to have a prominent say on matters relating to inequality, the climate crisis and anti-war and imperialism, and that will only start once we begin organising and setting our own agenda outside of mainstream electoral politics.

TRUMP’S DEPORTATION PLAN AND THE CARIBBEAN RESPONSE IN DECEMBER 2024, US President Donald Trump’s incoming administration had reached out to a number of countries in the Caribbean to deport immigrants as part of their upcoming deportation plan.

During his presidential campaign, Trump had made incredible promises to the American people about deporting record numbers of illegal immigrants. Part of this strategy involves sending immigrants to what are termed third countries (a term for a country that falls out of the jurisdiction of the sending country). The countries named as part of Trump’s deportation strategy were the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos

Islands, Grenada and Panama. At the time of writing this article, it is unclear how the United States plans to go about this, and whether they plan to apply pressure to the countries proposed in order for them to accept the plan.

The Caribbean response So far, the response from Caribbean leaders has been hostile to the idea of accepting migrants from the US. Prime Minister of the Bahamas Phillip Davis rejected the proposal, stating: “This matter was presented to the government of the Bahamas but was reviewed and firmly rejected. The Bahamas simply does not have the resources to accommodate such a request.”

The Bahamas faces significant immigration from Haiti, with Haitian immigrants comprising nearly a third of its population, straining public services and sparking tensions. Any move to accept more immigrants is highly unpopular.

The Turks and Caicos Islands reportedly rejected a related proposal, though no formal statement has been made. Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell clarified that no proposal from the Trump administration has been presented, and no discussions with Grenada’s government have taken place.

failed Rwanda plan and similar European deals with Turkey and Albania. Even if Caribbean nations agree, such proposals could prove costlier than hosting migrants domestically. For example, the UK spent over £715 million on the Rwanda plan — including payments to Rwanda, flights, detention centres, and legal costs — without relocating a single asylum seeker.

Caribbean countries, lacking infrastructure to host migrants, would likely demand significant financial commitments, mirroring the scale of the UK’s expenditures.

The problems and logistics of the deportation plan Trump’s strategy mirrors the UK’s

The threat of US aggression Despite the clear rejections from Caribbean leaders, recent rhetoric

from Trump to Canada, Mexico and Panama and allies such as Denmark and Greenland suggests that this administration could take a more aggressive stance to distract from domestic issues. This volatility could position the Caribbean as a target for US pressure coercion in other areas such as trade.

As such, Caribbean leaders need to prepare and disentangle themselves from dependence on the US as it attempts to exercise the doctrine outlined in the Roosevelt Corollary and the Manifest Destiny. l Lyndon Mukasa is a writer

and researcher. He studied International Development at the London School of Economics

THE VOICE | 29

JUNE 2024

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 29

News

GHANA OPENS UP VISA-FREE TRAVEL TO ALL AFRICANS

Outgoing president eases border controls to encourage Pan-African trade and tourism. By Sinai Fleary

G

HANA’S PRESIDENT Nana Akufo-Addo has introduced a historic visa-free travel policy for all African passport holders, effective from the start of the year.

Announcing the initiative in his final State of the Nation Address before stepping down last month, Akufo-Addo said the policy underscores Ghana’s commitment to Pan-Africanism and economic integration.

“We have tried to make real many of the slogans that have dominated our public discourse since independence,” AkufoAddo, below, told lawmakers during his farewell address. “I am proud to have approved visa-free travel to Ghana for all African passport holders. This is the logical next step to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the workings of the largest trading bloc in the world.”

Ghana is the fifth African nation to implement such visa-free travel for Africans, after Rwanda, The Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles.

By easing travel restrictions, Ghana aims to bolster its reputation as a hub for trade, tourism, and diplomacy on the continent.

Last year, the country ranked fifth on the Visa Openness Index, reflecting its commitment to easier access for African visitors.

Visa-free travel within Africa has been a Pan-African aspiration, seen as vital for economic cooperation and unity.

Akufo-Addo’s policy strengthens Ghana’s ties with the diaspora and continent, fostering economic collaboration.

By eliminating visa requirements, the aim is to take a practical step towards its vision of Pan-Africanism and regional integration.

In 2019, Ghana launched the “Year of Return” initiative to commemorate 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were forcibly taken to the Americas.

The programme aimed to encourage African diasporans to reconnect with their ancestral homeland while promoting Ghana as a destination for tourism and investment.

The Year of Return attracted global attention, drawing 1.5m tourists and generating an estimated $1.9bn in revenue.

High-profile visitors, including Naomi Campbell, Idris Elba, Steve Harvey and Cardi B, participated in activities such as heritage site tours, healing ceremonies, musical performances, and investment forums.

“The Year of Return welcomed thousands of African-Americans and diaspora Africans,” AkufoAddo said during his recent address. “Many decided to stay, and the programme brought significant economic and cultural benefits to our country.”

Ghana’s new visafree policy extends the Year of Return’s ideals, supporting AfCFTA’s goals as the world’s largest free trade area.

However, the Year of Return was not without controversy, as some local communities felt excluded from its economic benefits.

Beyond boosting tourism, the move highlighted Ghana’s commitment to fostering inclusivity across the continent.

Other recent initiatives such as granting citizenship to members of the diaspora further solidified the country’s reputation as a welcoming gateway to Africa.

Akufo-Addo, who has served as Ghana’s president since 2017, reviewed his two terms in office during his recent address.

Despite acknowledging the economic challenges faced by many Ghanaians, he highlighted the country’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Growth has returned to the pre-COVID trajectory,” he stated, adding that he leaves behind “a country that is thriving”.

HERITAGE: Naomi Campbell was one of the stars who visited Ghana in 2019 for the Year of Return (photo: Getty Images)

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30 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE

Nothing But Truth and Light

Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion

LOVE IN A MODERN AGE Now more than ever you must trust that God’s plans for your relationships are good, even when the path seems uncertain

N

AVIGATING modern relationships can feel like a daunting journey, particularly when you are committed to living by Christian values.

In a world increasingly shaped by shifting norms and cultural pressures, finding, building, and maintaining love grounded in faith requires discernment, intentionality, and a deep trust in God’s guidance.

Christian teachings remind us that love is more than a fleeting emotion; it is a commitment rooted in faith, action, and grace.

Romans 12:9 reminds us, “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

This verse sets the foundation for understanding that authentic love reflects God’s character, rejecting superficiality and embracing what is righteous.

For Christians navigating modern dating, the landscape nowadays includes dating apps and online platforms.

While these tools can feel at odds with traditional notions of courtship, they can serve as opportunities when approached with intentionality and prayerful discernment.

INTEGRITY Seeking a partner through such platforms is not inherently un-Christian, but it does require setting clear boundaries and maintaining integrity.

Resources like Black Christian and Single: A Collection of Essays about Singleness in Britain’s Black Pentecostal Church by Marcia Dixon emphasise the importance of discerning motives, being honest about your faith journey, and ensuring that shared values form the cornerstone of any potential relationship.

Online connections should ultimately lead to real-life interactions where faith can flourish in community and accountability, underscoring the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in every step.

Christian principles call for relationships to prioritise mutual respect, celibacy, and spiritual growth. Ephesians 5:25 reminds us, “Husbands, love your wives,

just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

This sacrificial love is a high standard that applies to all stages of relationships, from dating to marriage. It serves as a reminder that love is not about self-gratification but about selflessness and a willingness to honour one another as God’s creations.

Celibacy before marriage, though often countercultural in today’s world, is a powerful act of obedience and trust in God’s design.

As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, “Flee from sexual immorality... You are not your own; you were bought at a price.

Therefore, honour God with your bodies.”

This call to purity is not about restriction but about honouring the sacredness of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Church communities play a pivotal role in fostering healthy relationships. These spaces provide an environment for meeting like-minded individuals who share your faith and values.

In A Biblical View of Love & Romance, the emphasis on community as a support system echoes biblical teachings like Ephesians 4:2-3: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Whether through small groups, mentorship, or shared worship experiences, church communities can help cultivate relationships that reflect God’s love. Modern relationships often come with societal pressures

Singleness is not a waiting room for marriage but a space to deepen one’s relationship with God, pursue personal goals, and serve others

SHARED FAITH: Modern Christians face relationship pressures that can conflict with values. Overcoming them requires spiritual growth, prayer, and scriptural wisdom, says Muyiwa

that challenge Christian values.

The constant stream of media narratives, peer influences, and cultural trends can make it difficult to remain steadfast in faith. Galatians 5:19-21 warns against falling into patterns of sin, listing the “acts of the flesh” that can derail spiritual and relational health.

Resisting these pressures requires a commitment to spiritual growth, daily prayer, and seeking wisdom from scripture.

The writings of Leon Morris in Testaments of Love remind us that love, as defined in the Bible, transcends cultural definitions and remains unshakable amidst societal shifts.

Shared faith is a cornerstone of enduring relationships. The Bible teaches that spiritual unity strengthens couples, allowing them to navigate challenges with a common foundation.

When both partners prioritise their relationship with God, they are better equipped to love each other selflessly and forgive each other’s imperfections.

Trusting God’s timing and

will is also critical. In Romans 5:4, Paul writes, “Perseverance produces character; and character, hope.”

Waiting on God for the right partner or enduring trials in an existing relationship builds resilience and faith, reminding us that His plans are always for our good.

Cultural intersections further enrich the tapestry of Christian relationships, especially within Black communities in Britain.

IDENTITY The dynamics of faith, heritage, and identity bring unique challenges and blessings.

As highlighted in Marcia Dixon’s essays, navigating singleness and relationships in Britain’s Black Pentecostal Church involves balancing tradition with modern realities.

The cultural significance of marriage and community often amplifies the pressure to conform, yet it also provides a powerful framework for support and belonging.

These intersections call for

a nuanced understanding of how faith interacts with cultural expectations, allowing individuals to honour both their spiritual convictions and cultural roots.

Dealing with imperfections is an inevitable part of any relationship. Love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13, is patient, kind, and forgiving.

Acknowledging each other’s flaws while extending grace reflects God’s love for humanity.

This is not about tolerating harmful behaviour but about practicing humility, seeking reconciliation, and relying on God’s transformative power.

In Black Christian and Single, the essays capture the beauty and complexity of singleness, encouraging readers to embrace this season as an opportunity for spiritual growth and selfdiscovery. Singleness is not a waiting room for marriage but a space to deepen one’s relationship with God, pursue personal goals, and serve others.

As Paul C. Brunson often emphasises in his relationship

advice, self-awareness and purpose are key to forming meaningful connections. His work highlights the importance of aligning one’s values with actions, fostering authentic relationships that reflect inner growth. Ultimately, navigating modern relationships with Christian values is about anchoring every aspect of love — whether romantic or platonic — in God’s truth.

As you journey through dating, courtship, or marriage, let scripture, prayer, and faith guide your steps. Trust that God’s plans for your relationships are good, even when the path seems uncertain.

By remaining faithful to His principles, you can build relationships that not only endure but thrive, reflecting the eternal love of Christ to the world. l Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE is station director at Premier Gospel radio, a TV & radio broadcaster, and principal of gospel group Muyiwa & Riversongz. You can listen to Muyiwa on http://www.premiergospel.plus

JANUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 19

32 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Cynthia V Davis

Join the debate online: voice-online. co.uk/opinion

ACHIEVING EQUALITY IN WORK: SO MUCH STILL TO DO

STRUGGLES: Despite progress, DE&I faced a growing backlash in 2024, driven by political and cultural debates. Early 2025 shows continued resistance and attempts to sideline inclusion efforts, says Cynthia V. Davis (photo: Getty Images)

A

ND JUST like that, another year has passed, and we find ourselves already in February!

Reflecting on the progress in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) over the past year, it’s clear that while there have been meaningful steps forward, significant work remains to be done.

For those of us dedicated to DE&I, 2024 was not without its challenges. Backlash against DE&I efforts grew louder in some quarters, fuelled by political and cultural debates that sought to undermine the importance of equity and inclusion.

Unfortunately, this resistance hasn’t disappeared in 2025.

Early signs indicate that these challenges are continuing, with attempts to sideline DE&I initiatives in some spaces.

Yet, despite these distractions, the work must go on. DE&I is not a passing trend but a necessary and ongoing journey toward justice and equity in the workplace.

At Diversifying Group, our mission has always been clear: to create a truly inclusive and equitable world of work.

We have seen progress through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, but it’s still far from being a level workplace playing field We’ve been heartened by the resilience of organisations that remain steadfast in their commitment to DE&I, even in the face of adversity. Encouragingly, the Labour government is also stepping up, introducing mandatory ethnicity and disability pay-gap reporting and strengthening equal pay protections. These initiatives are set to raise the bar on workplace equity, ensuring that DE&I remains on the agenda for businesses across the UK. The importance of measuring success As we step into 2025, it’s vital to reassess our DE&I strategies and measure both our successes and failures. Without clear metrics, even the most well-intentioned initiatives risk becoming mere

box-ticking exercises. To drive real, lasting change, organisations must move beyond surface-level commitments and focus on actionable, measurable outcomes.

From my experience advising organisations on DE&I strategy and recruitment, I have seen first hand how thoughtful measurement can transform efforts into meaningful cultural shifts. When companies prioritise data, they signal that DE&I is a core value rather than an afterthought. This not only drives accountability but also fosters trust and engagement among employees and candidates alike.

The role of data in driving change Data is essential for understanding where organisations stand and how they can improve.

Quantitative metrics, such as employee demographics, pay equity and hiring rates, provide a baseline for tracking progress.

With the Labour government’s proposed requirements for mandatory ethnicity and disability pay-gap reporting, organisations will need to adapt quickly to ensure compliance.

But it’s not just about hiring.

Data on promotion and retention rates at all organisational levels reveals whether underrepresented employees are advancing or leaving due to a lack of support and belonging. Measuring the success of internal leadership programmes designed to uplift employees from marginalised communities is also critical.

Without this data, it’s impossible to gauge whether these initiatives are driving the desired outcomes.

As we step into 2025, it’s vital to reassess our DE&I strategies and measure both our successes and failures. Without clear metrics, even the most well-intentioned initiatives risk becoming mere box-ticking exercises

The power of listening Numbers alone can’t tell the full story. Qualitative feedback, gathered through surveys, focus groups and exit interviews, offers insight into the lived experiences of employees — particularly those from marginalised groups.

Are they feeling included, valued

and supported? Do they see opportunities for growth and advancement?

Listening to these voices allows organisations to connect with what truly matters: the human experience. For DE&I to succeed, people need to feel the impact, not just see it on paper.

Staying focused amid challenges The work of DE&I is not easy, and resistance will likely remain a feature of the landscape. But as someone who lives and breathes this work every day, I am inspired by the commitment of organisations that continue to place DE&I at the top of their agendas.

This year presents an opportunity to double down on what matters most: creating workplaces where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background. Together, through data-driven strategies, intentional actions and a steadfast focus on equity, we can ensure that DE&I efforts not only endure but flourish.

Let’s keep pushing forward. The work we do today will shape the inclusive workplaces of tomorrow. n Cynthia V Davis CBE is a Black

British entrepreneur, employment expert and diversity advocate.

She is CEO and Founder of Diversifying Group, a D&I services organisation, and Co-Founder of Diversifying Jobs, a diversityfocused job board

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 33

News

PREPARING TO END PAY GAP

Spktral. Labour’s proposal for mandatory ethnicity pay gap reporting is a significant step forward, marking a clear departure from years of Conservative policy.

Critics such as the Black Equity Organisation have said that previous Governments displayed a “lack of political will” to address LEADING campaigner they are taking every action to structural wage inequalities. has said it is time to close the gap.

According to figures from the take action to address “Organisations have to start Office for National Statistics, the Ethnicity Pay Gap letting everyone know what they employees from Black, African, in the United Kingdom. are doing about it, individuals can Caribbean, or Black British backDianne Greyson, who launched start having discussions within grounds were consistently earning the #EthnicityPayGap Campaign their organisations and in their less than their White counterparts in 2018, says that companies can communities. It also raises awarebetween 2012-2022. UK-born no longer afford to ignore the pay ness allowing it to be picked up by Black employees earn 5.6 per cent differences between Black, Asian the media,” she said. less than their UK-born White and minority ethnic employees “We rarely hear anything about colleagues. and their White counterparts in the Ethnicity Pay Gap in the The Voice’s Black British the UK. media however the Gender Pay Voices (BBV) survey, conducted She said that while the issue is Gap is often discussed. I started rarely spoken about it is having a the Ethnicity Pay Gap Campaign FOUNDER: Dianne Greyson is campaigning for the closing of in partnership with the University of Cambridge, underscores how major impact on the lives of because I recognised, no-one one the Ethnic Minority Pay Gap Black employees experience these Black, Asian and minority ethnic was talking about it, and there Runnymede. Greyson added: “We praised by notable figures such as disparities. employees up and down the was no action to deal with the Of the 11,000 respondents who helped organisations to underLord Boateng for her work. country. issue, Government seemed to be took part in the survey, 88 per stand the impact the Ethnicity Pay She is also organising the She told The Voice: “The ignoring it.” cent reported experiencing racial Gap has on their employees and Ethnicity Pay Gap Summit 2025, #EthnicityPayGap Campaign is Over the seven years, the camhave worked with unions (Unison which aims to encourage the Gov- discrimination in the workplace, important because it provides a paign has contributed to raising including unfair pay, lack of ernment to make Ethnicity Pay laser focus on this issue.” the profile of the Ethnicity Pay Gap and GMB) to help them support promotions, and differential treatthe members. Our impact cannot Gap reporting mandatory.

The campaign is also calling on through liaising with organisament. be understated.”

The event will take place on the Government to ensure that tions such as the Fawcett Society, businesses fully demonstrate that Black Equity Organisation and The campaigner has been February 7 in collaboration with While some leading companies

Campaigner calls for action as plans for mandatory reporting launched. By Sinai Fleary

A

Celebrate International Women’s Day with an evening of inspiration, music and joy WOW at 15 with Angela Davis Saturday 8 March, 7pm Tickets from £20 royalalberthall.com

like Aviva and BT voluntarily report their ethnicity pay data, Labour’s legislation will compel over 250,000 businesses to follow suit.

However, despite the positive momentum, implementing mandatory Ethnicity Pay Gap reporting is fraught with challenges.

Unlike Gender Pay Gap reporting, ethnicity reporting involves multiple intersecting factors, including regional workforce diversity, varying experiences across ethnic groups, and the sensitive nature of collecting ethnicity data.

The Ethnicity Pay Gap Summit aims to prepare organisations for this shift, offering guidance from experts and sharing best practices from companies already taking action.

“The importance of the summit should not be understated,” said Greyson. “With new Government legislation coming into force this year to make Ethnicity Pay Gap reporting mandatory, organisations need to be prepared.” l For more information please visit ethnicitypaygap.uk

34 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Darell J. Philip

Join the debate online: voice-online. co.uk/opinion

REVISED LESSON PLANS: A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION?

Government plans to make the national curriculum more ‘diverse’ could be a positive move, argues our Education Columnist

O

N THE brink of entering into the New Year of 2025, news circulated of government plans to make the national curriculum more ‘diverse’.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is said to have begun a review which aims to refresh education through the creation of a curriculum which reflects the “diversities of society” which in turn will produce young people who have an “appreciation of diversity” in Britain.

Suggestions submitted to the review by teaching unions include the call to “decolonise” subjects which have been branded too “mono-cultural”.

It’s hardly surprising that such a position will come with criticism from other quarters. Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott stated that: “Instead of spending time fiddling with our academic curriculum, which has led to English children being the best at Maths and English in the Western world, the Department for Education needs to concentrate

INCLUSIVE LEARNING: An ‘empowerment timeline’ with many Black icons brings a diverse history to life. Inset, Darell with the timeline (photo: Katrina Cadogan) on getting absence rates down and kids back in the classroom.”

Meanwhile, the former Conservative education minister Sir John Hayes, himself a qualified history teacher, said: “The truth of the matter is there’s a canon of English literature, there’s a factual basis to learning, and you can’t twist the facts to suit your political agenda. When you do, you risk undermining the education of young people, leaving them illequipped for life beyond schooling.”

However, according to this columnist, the irony in the

REFRESHING: Books by Valerie Bloom, Benjamin Zephaniah and Raymond Antrobus, above, are enriching additions to the curriculum

statement made by Sir John with regard to there being “a factual basis to learning which means not twisting the facts to suit a political agenda” is all the more reason for a need to change a curriculum which has for centuries thrived on facts which have been twisted to suit a political agenda, and where the histories of those who have made a significant contribution to Britain have been omitted.

Among those who have welcomed the review into the current education curriculum is the General Secretary of the

National Education Union (NEU), Daniel Kebede, who posted on X: “The worst of British politics frothing at the curriculum review.

Do remember, a revised national curriculum to prevent racism and value cultural diversity was a recommendation from Macpherson [report] following the murder of Stephen Lawrence.

If Bridget Phillipson brings that in… GOOD!” REVAMP Following on from the recommendation to revise the national curriculum after the murder of Stephen Lawrence, there have been further recommendations from others for the necessary changes to be put in place.

In her column in the October 2024 issue of The Voice, Lavinya Stennett, founder of The Black Curriculum (TBC), wrote of her campaign begun in 2019 to see a complete revamp of the current education system which ensured that Black history would be taught in all schools across the country.

She wrote: “Over the last five years from inception to implementation, TBC has stood on turbulent terrain.

“The problem at the heart of

our work and solution is hundreds of years old.”

Stennett added: “Generations of families before our arrival experienced a curriculum centered around Whiteness, Henry and his wives, within a Victorian school system that under-prepares teachers and students for realworld encounters.

“Looming underneath these restrictions, for the first five years of our work was a government that disabled public critique of the Empire, significantly reduced funding for ‘political’ work in schools and framed our work as an attack on ‘British values’.”

Data from the Black British Voices Project, launched in August 2023 and supported by The Voice, revealed that 95% of respondents felt that the history and culture of Black people is not sufficiently represented in the national curriculum.

For many, like myself, who work within the education system, black British history, in particular, does not start and end with the Windrush.

Neither does Black history just refer to the likes of Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks and Nelson Mandela. There is a history of Black figures before those aforementioned who have made significant contributions not only to British but also to world history, yet their presence has been omitted and their voice erased to the appeasement of those quick to point out that any change in the curriculum would lead to a twisting of the facts leading young people to be ill-equipped for life beyond schooling.

The introduction of an empowerment curriculum within schools across the country, including my own, has seen the fostering of more positive and inclusive learning amongst both teaching staff and children, leading to children being well balanced in their thinking, speaking and behaviour towards their peers, many of whom are from different cultures, religions and socio-economic backgrounds.

Classroom book corners displaying Henry and his six wives beside the North African-born Roman Emperor Septimus Severus (193CE – 211CE) are welcome, as are the unconscious bias training school staff receive which can possibly lead to the building of antiracist classrooms with children becoming the antiracist leaders of tomorrow (see How to Build Your Antiracist Classroom by Orlene Badu, inset below, Corwin, 2023).

The inclusion of empowering writers such as Valerie Bloom, Malorie Blackman, Raymond Antrobus and the late Benjamin Zephaniah amongst others into the school curriculum is both refreshing and reinvigorating, adding to rather than taking away from the socalled ‘classics’ in the canon of English literature.

More than this, the refreshing of the curriculum is necessary in light of its need to be representative of the diverse people who make up British society today. Anything less would be not only a continual failure to young people but also a serious indictment on those who have the power to bring change. l Darell J. Philip is a teaching assistant, academic mentor and award-winning journalist

Lifestyle

41

On stage or off it Temi Wilkey exudes ‘Main Character Energy’

42

36 KREPT & KONAN DELIVER

Saveways, a cultural benchmark

Seani B says Vybz delivered an event that will be remembered

45

Idris Elba looks deeper into ‘Our knife crime crisis’

36 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Lifestyle

Music

RAP DUO OPEN UK’S FIRST ‘INCLUSIVE’ SUPERMARKET Ahead of dropping a new album, Krept & Konan have launched a venture tailored to the needs of Black, Asian and ethnic communities. By Joel Campbell

Y

OU HAVE to understand, Krept & Konan have come a long way, they’ve blazed a trail many would be proud to follow and even as they sit down with Lifestyle to discuss their latest big move and the Young Kingz II album which drops this month, they insist there is plenty more to come.

The duo, who started in music but have branched out to explore and dabble in a variety of business ventures, announced the launch of Saveways earlier this month, a large-scale supermarket tailored to the needs of the Black, Asian and ethnic communities.

Based in their hometown of Croydon and acquired in partnership with serial entrepreneur Kaysor Ali, Krept & Konan have, yet again, fearlessly steered in a direction which has never been explored by artists of their ilk.

“Our business partner Kayso is the one that brought the concept.

He was like, ‘yo, mandem, I’ve got this idea, what do you think?’”

Krept explains.

“And we were like, yep, let’s do it, put a plan together, what we’re happy with.

“Remember, this is his speciality, this is what he does, he owns multiple Steakout and Smacks Hamburgers Franchises, but now we’re able to get involved, own

DOWN THE AISLE: Konan checks out the stock

this stuff, build out our business model how we can grow and actually be in a situation where we can call shots.

“Hopefully, God willing if this one is successful we can offer franchises ourselves, give other people the chance to get onboard so they can open one up where they see fit. We can actually control that.

“People can actually come up to us and say ‘yo, I think you can sell this product and that product in the supermarket’. If there are any brands in the community that need some support, we can stock it. There’s so much we can do.”

Spanning an impressive 15,000 sq ft and set to create over 30 job opportunities, this groundbreaking supermarket represents a transformative moment for retail inclusivity in the UK. AMBITION Reflecting on what it means for them to have accomplished the feat, Konan said: “It’s a good feeling to know that everything we put our mind to, it comes to fruition.

“From the start when we said we were going to do music, we said we’re going to take it to a height that it’s never been taken to and that’s always been the goal and the ambition, to keep expanding and diversifying our business, everything that we do.

“We just want to be able to show

BRANCHING OUT: Krept and Konan with business partner Kaysor Ali outside Saveways in Croydon the youth that are coming up that you can do anything you put your mind to. As we were coming up, there weren’t a lot of role models in these spaces to give us inspiration or even a blueprint to follow so we just want to be those guys for everybody. So people can say, ‘I want to do that and I know it’s possible because they done it’.”

Coming together as young men pursuing a musical dream almost two decades ago has given Krept & Konan an insight into the success that can be garnered when complementing elements are partnered.

Reiterating the potency that occurs when the right unions are forged, Saveways co-founder Ali enthused: “Together, we’ve combined our skills, networks, and passion to create a supermarket experience that not only serves the community but sets a new standard for quality, inclusivity, and excellence in the UK food retail space.”

Setting new standards isn’t a new concept for Krept & Konan.

They hold multiple Guinness World Records, including highest-charting UK album by an unsigned act (with Young Kingz), highest-charting British rap album in UK chart history (with The Long Way Home), and first act to have two mixtapes chart in the top 10 at the same time (with

mixtapes 7 Days and 7 Nights).

In 2020, they became the first British rap act to headline the O2 London during their Revenge is Sweet headline tour celebrating the release of their top five charting Revenge is Sweet album.

This month sees them release Young Kingz II, the long-awaited sequel to the Young Kingz mixtape.

The album features an impressive roster of collaborators, including Nigerian star Oxlade, Jamaican icons Sizzla and Popcaan, UK rap heavyweights Chip, Potter Payper, Ghetts, Youngs Teflon, and actors Michael Ward and Damson Idris.

It also incorporates a poignant sample of Konan’s father, Reggae legend Delroy Wilson.

RELIEF Speaking on how it feels to still be relevant 12 years after the release of their first album, Konan said: “It’s a relief to still be here and still be above water because, as you know, we’ve been here a long time, seen a lot of people come and go.

“So, first and foremost we’re just thankful to still be here.

“It’s been a long journey, a hard journey but the goal has always been to take it as far as we can take it and not stop and keep going until we want to stop. We’re not going to let the game or the industry or whatever stop us, it’s

when we want to stop. And I don’t feel like we’re going to stop any time soon.

“So just to be able to do that and have the resilience, it’s starting to feel like destiny now. Before it would feel like an idea in our heads and sometimes when you’re saying it to people it can come across a bit delusional because it’s not been seen or done before. But now the wheels are rolling, we’ve got this far and now it feels like we’re meant to be here.

“So it’s a relief that it all worked out in the end.”

Krept added: “Still a long way to go but to be here this long, it goes to show the perseverance we have. We’re always forward thinking, thinking outside of the box and that’s what has probably kept us here for so long.

“The game’s not easy.”

As fans the world over would expect the upcoming album features something for everyone.

A bit of afrobeats, dancehall, grime, and hip-hop, with the duo delving into personal themes around PTSD, therapy, fatherhood, grief, loss, and systemic injustice.

Speaking on pulling it together, Konan said: “It’s where we’re at in our lives. We’ve been through a lot of stuff and it was a case of what do we want to talk about now? What represents us right now as artists and what message

are we trying to put forward.

We did a lot of soul searching through the Covid period and just being out of the music and finding ourselves as adults and getting more responsibility, like Krept having a daughter and just finding new parts of us that we didn’t know we had.

“Even myself going back to Jamaica and tapping in with that side of my life, my dad, going to therapy, all these types of things, we just wanted to put it in one album and be like, this is where we’re at, this is the journey for the fans that’s been there from the start to the middle until now.”

LEGACY Looking forward to the next decade of growth, Krept said the ‘sky was the limit’.

“It’s about inspiring, feeling like we’re leaving behind a real legacy.

“We love doing music and we’re going to keep doing that because we enjoy it, that’s where we’re at now. This our first love.

“But we’re also here to bulls things and keep innovating, it’s bigger than just us and it’s bigger than just a cheque.

“We’ve got responsibilities now, families and we just want to keep being at the top of our game to be able to inspire our people and keep it moving.” l Young Kingz II is set for release on February 7

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 37

Lifestyle

Arts

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

East London’s vibrant arts scene will come alive in early March when the Afro Futures Festival comes to town. By Joel Campbell

A

EMPOWERMENT: The Cocoa Butter Club take to the stage on March 7 (photo: Bryan Aseya) i 1951 3.1 3rd proof A3 poster a/w to print_Layout 1 13/12/2024 11:19 Page 1

s O e r R u F t A Fu P

S E R

T N E

6/7/8/9 | MARCH | 2025 Thursday 6th March 7.30 pm Sean Khan and The Modern Jazz and Folk Ensemble with special guests Jacqui McShee and Rosie Frater-Taylor

Friday 7th March 7.30 pm The Brownie Club meets The Cocoa Butter Club

Saturday 8th March 4.00 pm T21 ALChEMy

by Oneness Sankara Saturday 8th March 7.30 pm Best Friends

by Crying in the Wilderness Productions

Sunday 9th March 7.30 pm Roshni

by Sonia Sabri Company

Rich Mix 35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road London, E1 6LA Box Office www.certainblacks.com 020 7613 7498 www.richmix.org.uk

Design: Ideology.uk.com

the innovative jazz collective Art Ensemble of Chicago, released in 1970.

Supporting the development of diverse artists and performance companies, they have, since 2015, presented 14 indoor and outdoor festivals and worked with over 68 different artists.

Rich Mix, Royal Docks, Newham Town Hall, Hoxton Hall, and The Place have all played host to Certain Blacks winter and free summer extravaganzas and featured artists who have gone on to tour their work nationally and internationally.

Taking part in last years Soul on Ice festival by Cerain Blacks, artist Anna Mudeka, who brought the remarkable story of South African singer, songwriter and civil rights activist, Miriam Makeba to the stage in Mama Afrika, said working with the organisation was a joy.

“As a performer, I want the arts to be more representative — to achieve this we need to continue building platforms for ourselves.

“Soul on Ice from Certain Blacks is one such programme and one which I am very proud to be part of.

“I have to thank The Arts Council of England for understanding the importance of a platform for marginalised voices so we can share our stories with wider communities across the UK.” Ahead of this year’s events, Certain Blacks Artistic Director and founder Clive Lyttle enthused: “Our aim has always been to bring diverse creative work ‘from the margins to the mainstream’ and enable artists to develop.”

L IVA ST FE

soundtrack including DJ sets, drag artist, Bollywood dancer and award-winning performer BollyIllusion represents The Brownie Club as host while Sadie Sinner the Songbird does the honours for the Cocoa Butter Club.

Meanwhile, Best Friends

by Crying in the Wilderness Productions balances humour and sensitivity in poignant new theatre delving into the subject of friendship and assisted death, a highly relevant topic in this timely new work.

Taking place on March 8, the story follows two friends spending their last 24 hours together and unearthing long-buried truths that threaten their relationship.

Featuring a high calibre cast from the US and UK, this theatrical experience combines a staged reading and live performance.

Also on March 8 earlier in the day, award-winning spoken word artist and performer Oneness Sankara, below, presents the workin-progress of T21 ALCHEMY, a semi-autobiographical piece that combines poetry, prose and music.

T21 ALCHEMY tells the story of a British woman of African Caribbean heritage who becomes a mother in later life to a child with Down Syndrome. This latest piece by Sankara navigates themes of motherhood, disability stigma, and resilience.

The festival ends on March 9 with Sonia Sabri Company’s Roshni, a feast of dance accompanied by live music as interplaying rhythms celebrate daily life. Roshni is an intimate crafting of Kathak dance and live music, inspired by the stories and experiences of everyday people.

Certain Blacks takes its name from the influential album by

N AI S RT CK CE A BL

FRO FUTURES is the latest edition of Certain Blacks annual indoor festival.

Celebrating 10 years of artistic innovation, Certain Blacks is an east London-based arts development organisation known for championing artists from all dimensions of diversity, including different socioeconomic, ethnic, gender and neurodiverse identities.

Next month east London’s Rich Mix will host Afro Futures which is presented in the context of recent political unrest.

The programme reflects on the multiple ways diverse culture has contributed to the British identity and on what it means to be British today.

Featuring dance, theatre, cabaret, music and spoken word, Afro Futures presents work developed within a changing cultural climate and gathers an artist line-up highlighting different backgrounds and disciplines.

Music comes courtesy of Sean Khan and The Modern Jazz and Folk Ensemble, with special guests, exploring the traditional alongside the new in a crosscultural retake of modern folk music.

Taking place on March 6 and launching the festival, The Modern Jazz and Folk Ensemble pays tribute to the 1970s folk revival through a vibrant jazz lens.

Sean Khan, who founded and developed this ongoing project, delivers dynamic saxophone accompanied by Pentangle’s legendary lead singer Jacqui McShee and renowned singer/ guitarist Rosie Frater-Taylor.

Their eponymous album on Acid Jazz Records has been critically acclaimed and their show at Ronnie Scott’s was a sell-out.

On March 7, cabaret is served when The Brownie Club meet The Cocoa Butter Club, shining a spotlight on Black and brown talent as they join forces to entertain, inform and showcase their impressive rosters of artists.

A fusion of late-night entertainment celebrating performers of colour, The Brownie Club have made their name by challenging preconceived notions of brown bodies through drag, dance, circus and their sultry style of performance while The Cocoa Butter Club deliver their signature style of empowerment via burlesque, spoken word, firebreathing, and voguing. With a

38 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Lifestyle

BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY

Travel

LUXURY: The stunning Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel; below, Goat Cave, a natural wonder in Anguilla that captivates visitors

I

T’S HOME to the famous Banx family and a regular vacation destination for many.

It’s Anguilla. A small island in the eastern Caribbean, the country is fast becoming the place to be.

If you’re a hip-hop head then you may have seen DJ Khaled enjoying the scenic spot with his family a couple of years ago, making a splash across social media with his images and videos that left many envious but curious to find out more.

Last summer I saw more than a fair share of celebrities heading in that direction to find out what the hype is all about for themselves.

As well as being a Christmas and new year getaway, Anguilla has a few other seasons visitors might want to be aware of.

I kicked off this article by mentioning the Banx family as the legendary Moonsplash Music Festival, the longest-running independent music festival in the Caribbean, will return in March, with captivating musical performances under the full moon.

For more than 25 years, famed Anguillian musician Bankie Banx has hosted this amazing reggae music event at Dune Preserve on Rendezvous Bay. Attracting the great and good, the event has garnered a huge amount of respect across the world for putting the love of good music at its core focus.

The following month sees Anguilla’s traditional Festival del Mar, a celebration of all things from the sea, take place over

Anguilla is one of the Caribbean’s smaller islands, but it’s becoming the place to be. By Joel Campbell the Easter weekend. This twoday celebration is centred in the picturesque fishing village of Island Harbour and locals and visitors alike can take part in and enjoy deep sea fishing competitions, swimming races, crab races, traditional culinary competitions, live music and boat racing.

Sticking with the food, the fourth annual Anguilla Culinary Experience will be held from April 30 to May 3.

Once again, Anguilla will welcome celebrated international guest chefs to create amazing dining experiences alongside local Anguillian chefs.

If those events are a little too soon for you, family and friends or that ‘work trip’, then maybe you will want to look at later

in the year. The island will be a kaleidoscope of colour during the Anguilla Summer Festival, held annually in late July and early August.

From the J’Ouvert parade set to a soundtrack of soca music, to the spectacular Parade of Troupes, calypso competitions, boat races, beach barbecues, the Miss Anguilla pageant and so much more, Anguilla will sizzle this summer.

Later still will be the hosting of the first Anguilla Music Tourism Convention, in partnership with Music Cities Events, which will be held in November. This is a first of its kind event for Anguilla, and indeed the region.

It is an unparalleled opportunity for artists to experience, learn about and network with those

SIZZLING: Parade of Troupes (photo: Zuri Wilkes Photography)

responsible for the best global music tourism practices, while showcasing the island to attendees.

Anguilla is a shy beauty with a warm smile. A slender length of coral and limestone fringed with green, the island is ringed with 33 beaches, considered by savvy travellers and top travel magazines to be the most beautiful in the world.

With a wide variety of quality accommodation at varying price points, it’s easy to see why it has become an alluring and enticing destination.

Forward looking, Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) is undergoing a major expansion, with a new passenger terminal scheduled for completion by autumn 2025.

The runway extension, which began last month and will be completed in 2026, will further bolster the island’s capacity to welcome larger aircrafts and more visitors.

On the neighbouring island of St Maarten/St Martin, a major hub for accessing Anguilla, the reconstruction of Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) was completed last year.

None of the infrastructure developments come at the cost of maintaining the Caribbean focus on sustainability.

There are a wide variety of sustainable initiatives currently underway in Anguilla.

Programmes range from collaborations with the Anguilla National Trust to protect the island’s biodiversity, to

GETTING THERE ANGUILLA is accessible from the UK via BA or Virgin Atlantic on services to Antigua, followed by a short inter-island flight transfer to Anguilla. An alternative route is with KLM/Air France via Amsterdam/Paris to St Maarten (SXM), followed by a short boat transfer or flight. American Airlines also operates a service from Miami International Airport (MIA) into Anguilla, with connections from/to the UK available.

the development of the Blue Economy to sustainably manage the island’s marine and coastal ecosystems. The Environmental Stewardship Programme, which was launched in 2024, is a public/ private sector partnership

to encourage tourism-based businesses to integrate climate and environmental consciousness into their everyday operations.

The Anguilla Tourist Board will soon be introducing a new “Volun-Tourism” experience.

The initiative aims to integrate volunteering opportunities into the tourism experience, providing visitors with a chance to give back to communities while on island.

Anguilla lies just off the beaten path, so it has retained a charming character and appeal.

Yet, because it can currently be conveniently reached from the major gateways of Antigua, St Maarten and Miami, and by private jet, it’s a hop and a skip away.

Romance? Barefoot elegance?

Unfussy chic? And unrivalled bliss? Anguilla is beyond extraordinary.

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 39

Television

Lifestyle

HIT BBC SHOW TO RETURN FOR SECOND TERM Boarders follows five Black inner-city teens transported to an alien world – a boarding school. By Joel Campbell

F

ANS OF the criticallyacclaimed hit comedydrama Boarders will be thrilled to hear that a six-part second series hits our screens this month.

The show follows five talented Black inner-city teens as they manage their transition into a British boarding school after gaining scholarships to the prestigious St Gilbert’s.

It’s a breath of fresh air, a laugh, a show that offers an irresistible blend of comedy and drama.

Actors that are quickly gaining a cult following return for the second series in the shape of Josh Tedeku (Jaheim), Jodie Campbell (Leah), Sekou Diaby (Toby), Myles Kamwendo (Omar) and Aruna Jalloh (Femi) alongside Bafta-nominated writer and creator Daniel Lawrence Taylor, who returns as their mentor Gus. In the first series, the characters set out to make the most out of the opportunity, despite their places only being offered as a poorly-disguised PR exercise to improve the reputation of the school.

Series two sees a new era for St Gilbert’s, with headmaster Bernard — who had brought the scholarship students into the school — suspended following a school rebellion.

Now acting headmistress Carol Watlington-Geese (who also happens to be the mother of Jaheim’s nemesis, Rupert) is at the helm — and she wants them gone. Series one saw these

five outsiders begin to thrive.

Series two asks how much they’re willing to sacrifice just to survive.

Speaking as the second season was confirmed, Taylor enthused: “The response to the first series has been incredibly inspiring, and I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of our second.”

He added: “What I’ve cherished most about creating this series is showcasing Black

I’m excited to collaborate with the cast again; they are all budding superstars experiences on screen and seeing how it resonates with everyone.

“While race can sometimes divide us, the emotions of feeling different, isolated, or trying to fit in are truly universal. I’m especially excited to collaborate with the cast again; they are all budding superstars, and I’m overjoyed to see them bring my words to life once more! I can’t wait for you to see it.”

If you haven’t seen it already, the first series of Boarders is available to stream in full now on BBC iPlayer.

CREATOR: Daniel Lawrence Taylor, left

40 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Lifestyle

Theatre

‘GIVING THEM ALL A BIG MIDDLE FINGER’

Writer and director Dominic Garfield’s Lil.Miss.Lady is making sure grime and its women are being recognised as well as heard loud and clear. By Joel Campbell

W

RITER AND director of Lil.Miss.

Lady, Dominic Garfield, said the production, merging ‘theatre and a grime rave’, was a ‘big middle finger from all of us who are told we can’t.’

Garfield’s organisation, HighRise Entertainment, celebrates its tenth anniversary with a nationwide tour of Lil.Miss.

Lady, an immersive exploration of the history of grime, starring MC Lady Lykez, lifting the lid on what it takes for a female MC to navigate her way through a heavily male-dominated industry in the early 2000s.

Part-y rave, part-y drama, this multi-layered show is a proper

gig with a hard-hitting, no-holdsbarred narrative.

Telling the story of a grime crew hellbent on becoming superstars, Lil.Miss.Lady follows their journey through the sounds and visuals of Black-British bass music culture, as they climb from Channel U to number one in the charts, and Lil.Miss.Lady hits number 32 in the NME’s coolest acts of 2004.

Lil.Miss.Lady’s stellar cast includes Fahad Shaft who will be playing Blanka, Joshua Cameron who will be taking the role of Twist, and Alexander Lobo Moreno who will be lending his talents to the character of Hypez.

Award-nominated international DJ, presenter and grimologist DJ Kaylee Kay will be spinning the

THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION: MC Lady Lykez takes the lead in the excellent Lil.Miss.Lady

wheels as DJ Harmony, and upand-coming MC Aliaano Elali will be bringing all of his performance skills to the stage as DJ Rat. The production wholeheartedly celebrates grime and its women, while shining a big, bold, bassfuelled spotlight on the problems and inequalities of the music industry.

As Lil.Miss.Lady bursts onto the scene, she’s faced with different expectations to the boys, and it becomes pretty obvious, pretty fast, that she’s being exploited.

In Lil.Miss.Lady, the audience are part of the script; instead of seats there’s a full-blown dancefloor with a bar, and RAVERS can get stuck right in, dance, celebrate, and film the show to share with their friends on socials.

A series of mini-mixes break up the story, blurring the lines between theatre and gig, as the storyline blasts through the years, from the early stages of jungle, through UK garage, sublow, funky house, dubstep and grime.

The production features original music from, Best Book/ Lyrics winner at the Black British Theatre Awards 2024, Lady Lykez, and Garfield, mixed by live DJs including DJ Kaylee Kay, and inspired by a series of interviews with key female figures such as Lady Stush, Lioness, Queenie and Baby Blue, who all hail from one of Britain’s biggest and most influential sub-cultures.

Garfield said: “As cuts in funding for the arts limit creative

potential, HighRise’s ambition continues to disrupt, drive and grow. The UK nightlife scene is shrinking due to forced closures of clubs and venues, and the need for HighRise’s work is becoming more and more essential.

“To merge theatre and a grime rave, at this moment, is a big middle finger from all of us who are told we can’t. To centre the voices of women in the scene helps us celebrate whilst forensically examining what it means to fight for the art and culture we all deserve.

“This show is nostalgic, authentic and a tingle of the senses; with the hottest soundtrack, elite performances and a shared mission of joy. I can’t wait to share it with the world!”

R&D performances of Lil.Miss.

Lady sold out The Roundhouse and shut it down in front of a massive crowd at Latitude Festival.

Grime artist Lioness, who took part in HighRise’s R&D, said: “So excited to see Lil.Miss.Lady.

“I love the idea of a theatre production centred around grime music but from the perspective of a female MC. “I appreciate the writers for taking the time out to approach us women of grime to get a wellrounded view. It’s going to be amazing.” l Kicking off this month in The Pit, Barbican from February 12-15, before heading to Gloucester and Salford, with more dates and locations to be announced

MAKING SURE THIS ANIMAL FARM IS OPEN FOR EVERYONE

CELEBRATING THE 80th anniversary since George Orwell’s dystopian classic was first published, the tour of Animal Farm kicks off at Stratford East this month before commencing on a tour to Leeds Playhouse in March and Nottingham Playhouse in April.

This re-telling of Animal Farm explores loss of identity, the seductive allure of greed and the corrupting nature of political power.

It’s a fresh interpretation of the text which provides a timely reminder why this political fable is still relevant today when it comes to the true meanings of equality.

Directed by Amy Leach, the

KEY ROLE: Tachia Newall, left Leeds Playhouse Deputy Artistic Director said she was looking forward to working with the cast which includes Tachia Newall, who

she has worked with before on Macbeth at Leeds Playhouse.

Leach enthused: “I can’t wait to start exploring Orwell’s timeless fable with this incredible group of people.

“Their insights and energy will enable us to delve deeper into themes that relate to the unequal world we live in now, to the challenges we face when power goes unchecked, and unity is mired in division.”

This Animal Farm features a cast that includes deaf and disabled performers, reflecting the production’s dedication to ensuring disability is an integral and

celebrated part of the storytelling and creative process.

Creative audio description will be available from February 14 onwards, offering live, sensory-rich narratives for visually impaired audiences and integrated BSL performances throughout, seamlessly weaving British Sign Language into the storytelling to ensure deaf audiences experience the production as an organic part of the action.

As well as Newall, other cast members include Tianah Hodding, Shakeel Kimotho, Gabriel Paul, Everal A Walsh and JoshuaAlexander Williams.

Working together with these amazing actors on Tatty Hennessy’s fresh interpretation of this landmark allegorical story is going to be a real treat.

“Animal Farm might be celebrating its 80th anniversary, but our superb creative team and I are creating a recognisable and relatable industrial landscape for our cast to explore.

“It’s going to be a beautiful, challenging journey for us all.” l Animal Farm: Stratford East February, 7 to March 8; Leeds Playhouse, March 12 to March 29; Nottingham Playhouse, April 2 to April 12

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 41

Theatre

Lifestyle

THE MAIN ATTRACTION

F

OLLOWING A soldout, critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe, Temi Wilkey’s Main Character Energy transfers to Soho Theatre for a London season.

A beautiful and supremely talented Black actress is putting on an autobiographical onewoman show to finally take up the space she’s been so routinely denied, and it’s your privilege and your pre-eminent pleasure to give her all the attention she deserves.

In this production, the heroine is forced to confront her insatiable need for attention in a show

After a successful run at the Fringe, Temi Wilkey is bringing her uplifting show to London. By Joel Campbell that is as self-aware as it is selfindulgent. A high camp cocktail of comedy and cabaret, this flamboyant parody is an uplifting and life affirming celebration of embracing your most authentic self. Featuring an energetic soundtrack, this interactive, multi-artform show is inspired by Wilkey’s personal journey.

“It’s funny, it’s sexy, it’s Temi Wilkey,” she said.

PERSONAL JOURNEY: Temi on stage (photo: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan)

Wilkey is an actor and writer from north London. She studied English at Cambridge before training with the National Youth Theatre REP company in 2014.

She recently finished a run in Alexander Zeldin’s Love which toured Europe. Other theatre credits include Hamlet and Cymbeline for the Royal Shakespeare Company, How To Hold Your Breath at the Royal Court, and The Comedy of Errors at the National Theatre.

Speaking on Main Character Energy, she added: “This show will revitalise your spirit, clear your skin and empower you like never before. Written for the bad bitches out there who are sleeping on their Main Character Energy — yes, I’m talking to you.”

To celebrate the London season there will be a number of additional events, including a Main Character Energy’s Karaoke Kabaret: a post-show night of

people of colour singing karaoke, hosted by Wilkey.

There are few things Wilkey is more passionate about than karaoke. Nothing says Main Character Energy like choosing a song you love and sharing it with others. Wilkey is inviting performers of colour and people of colour in the audience to take up space with her onstage to sing a song and spread joy.

Main Character Energy will be hosting their first Black Out Night performance and postshow discussion on March 4, giving Black-identifying audience members this unique experience of the production, a chance to discuss its themes and build community around them.

Written and performed by Wilkey, a winner of the Stage Debut Award: Best Writer, 2020 for The High Table, Bush Theatre and Forbes 30 under 30, the show is directed by Ragevan Vasan and produced by Bobby Harding. l Main Character Energy: Soho Theatre, Upstairs February 25 - March 15, 8.30pm Matinees: March 1, 8 & 15, 3pm BSL performance March 10

EMPOWERING: Temi Wilkey says Main Character Energy will revitalise your spirit (photo: Jade Ang Jackman)

Get your copy!

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The book chronicles stories of education, politics, entertainment and sport amongst others as told through the pages of The Voice.

SCAN HERE

It is an essential read.

To purchase your copy simply scan the QR code or visit: www.voice-online.co.uk

42 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

This is Brukout!

by Seani B

RETURNING HERO: Vybz Kartel took centre stage at Freedom Street on New Year’s Eve (photo: Steve James)

GOOD VYBZ GUARANTEED!

I

T WAS a big decision to make… Do I spend New Year’s Eve in Jamaica, or not? I had never done it before due to work and family commitments, but the opportunity was in front of me for a new experience, and of course I had to take it.

Ticket booked for December 30, I was heading to Jamaica for a season I’ve only heard about.

Trips to Jamaica have become quite regular for me, but what was I to expect from the end-ofyear festivities?

The events diary for my time on the island was very impressive!

Freedom Street for Vybz Kartel’s return, Bounty and Friends, as well as Buju Banton and Beres Hammond’s intimate show as the cherry on top.

Those were just the highlights, with so many other regular events like Uptown Mondays and Stone Love’s Weddy Weddy Wednesdays. These are ‘must attend’ parties for me whenever I’m on the rock.

Landing in Norman Manley airport late evening, there was no time to acclimatise as I hit the

I wouldn’t have missed the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Jamaica for the world road straight away to see what the vibes was (no pun intended) for the show closing off 2024.

I thought it was a big ask for thousands to attend the National Stadium in Jamaica for Adidjah Palmer’s return show on NYE. But judging by the lack of available accommodation and car rentals on the island, he had captured his fans’ attention just like Buju had done in 2019 for his return show.

There was a buzz, and foreign accents flooded the capital for The World Boss.

The day of the show, I headed towards the stadium early, as I knew it wouldn’t be an easy task to get my press accreditation.

I’ve obviously done this many times before and know what to expect.

Today was no different, but it gave me a chance to absorb the enormity of this event.

Entering the stadium, I was

immediately impressed by the stage production.

Positioned in the centre of the field, it was a mammoth structure that engulfed the DJs who were setting the tone.

It took a while for the stadium to fill, which I think hindered the early vibes slightly, but being in the warm evening of Kingston, who cared!

Sipping on a Str8 Vybz rum I created my own vibe.

I can’t remember the exact time Kartel hit the stage, blame the rum! But when MC Nuffy introduced him, it was SHOWTIME! Kingston came alive.

Decked out like an English gentleman in a three-piece suit, Kartel was giving King Charles, very dapper!

At one point I was concerned, as he looked like he was overheating and I was hoping he was going to release the tie and a

few buttons on his shirt and free up. As expected, the artists that formed the Gaza Empire rolled out delivering hit after hit.

However, it was when the queen of dancehall hit the stage that it felt like tonight was going to be special, especially when she remixed Kartel’s Comet song, which got the biggest forward of the night thus far.

Midnight struck and Spice was still on stage, which I think wasn’t meant to happen, but at this stage, who cared! With fireworks lighting up the Kingston skyline, we all welcomed in 2025 with liquid refreshment and The World Boss singing “Thank you Jah”.

The party/concert was in full swing and I was anticipating hearing the era of Kartel I love, the Black Kartel.

The young Vybz who hadn’t discovered melodies, but had lyrics in abundance.

That Kartel returned to the stage with a throwback fit of a basketball jersey and baseball cap, and man did he deliver!

It seemed to me that he had found his pace whilst delivering the Kartel Klassics from the

early 2000s. It was full steam ahead from here, but something seemed to be brewing as Kartel made a plea onstage to free up the gates for Popcaan and more to hit the stage.

When that moment finally happened, it went down in the history books!

Let’s put it this way, Popcaan was not best pleased with one of the event organisers and told him of his displeasure with a phrase that is synonymous with Jamaican culture about one’s mother.

Trips here have become quite regular for me, but what was I to expect from the end-of-year festivities?

Although unruly and unneeded, it brought a tension to the event that reminded me of the legendary Sting events that always had drama. If you know dancehall, you know those moments added something, a guilty pleasure maybe.

Standing up in the national stadium on NYE, I knew I couldn’t have been anywhere else in the world because of my love of the music and culture. This was one of those nights I couldn’t watch via a stream as my head would be saying, “You should be there”.

Kartel proved many things that night as he breezed through countless classics whilst not singing countless more.

Who else could have pulled this off on NYE, pulling in thousands to Jamaica from around the world?

Freedom Street was one of eight nights that I was out, on a nine-day visit to Jamaica.

Do the maths, then watch my Vlogs from this event, Bounty N Friends plus Buju and Beres Hammond via the BrukOut TV channel on YouTube.

FEBRUARY 2025

THE VOICE | 43

44 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Lifestyle

BRINGING CARNIVAL TO LIFE

J

OHN LYONS: Carnivalesque is the first major retrospective exhibition of the Caribbean British artist and poet John Lyons which surveys the contribution he’s made to British art, literature and art education over the last 60 years.

On view at The Box, Plymouth, from February 8, the exhibit is a series of his dynamic, expressive works exploring the folklore and mythology of Trinidad and Tobago, in particular the large colourful carnival that takes place on the Caribbean island every year.

Explaining how his love affair with Carnival has evolved over the years, Lyons told Lifestyle: “Carnival. Oh my gosh, when I was a child, it was scary.

“I used to hide behind my mother’s skirt. Nowadays, I think of it as a phantasmagoria!

“It was exciting. There was drama and freedom. People had hardships but they wanted to be part of the celebration. It gave them meaning: that’s how important it was. The folklore, superstitions, rituals and legends of it all are etched in my psyche.

“Over the years, I feel that time and distance have made me appreciate it and feel inspired by it more than ever.”

Arts MASTER OF HIS CRAFT: John Lyons at work in his studio (photo: Cameron Amiri)

New exhibition underlines John Lyons’ impressive contribution to British art. By Joel Campbell

The ‘jumbie bird’ is a recurring motif in this exhibition. Sharing its significance of its presence in his art and its connection to Caribbean folklore, Lyons enthused: “The jumbie bird is a liminal creature and, in a way, for me, it acts as a kind of creative or spiritual guide.

“It has the power to live in the light, the dark and in between.

It can move between worlds. It’s also believed to possess great

knowledge about things we know nothing about. In one of the works in Carnivalesque called The Counsellor, left, I show it sitting on my shoulder — almost like it’s whispering in my ear.

“It gives me the courage to take risks as I paint — to embrace uncertainty and trust my intuition.”

The exhibition features both visual art and poetry. Speaking on how the two creative forms interact for him, Lyons said: “In my view there is a strong aesthetic link between the language of painting and that of poetry.

“One is with gestures of the brush on canvas with a visual linguistic syntax of line, shape, colour, texture in the notional infinity of space in the picture plane; the other with a linguistic syntax expressed in words in a grammatical structural form.

“I see poetry in the paintings of Chagall.” n The Box, Tavistock Place, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AX John Lyons: Carnivalesque February 8 to May 5, 2025 IN THE FRAME: left to right, Before Ash Wednesday in Trinidad, 1988; Mama Look A Mas Passin, 1990; Self Portrait with Jumbie Bird and Alter Ego, 1990, courtesy of Kirklees Collection, Huddersfield Art Gallery

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 45

Lifestyle

Documentary

‘LET’S BEAT THE SCOURGE OF KNIFE CRIME TOGETHER’ Idris Elba is hoping his BBC documentary will help the younger generation see there’s a better way to live their lives. By Joel Campbell

O

‘

PTIMISIC’. THAT was the word Idris Elba used to describe how he feels about the battle to reverse the current trend and national crisis that is knife crime.

In the BBC One documentary, Idris Elba: Our Knife Crime Crisis, Elba and his team looked at the main drivers of knife crime, and while it’s clear we will never totally be rid of the reprehensible scourge, it’s also clear that a collective civic responsibility in stemming the flow of blood being spilled on our streets is required now, or else it gets worse.

In short, if we agree that we don’t like how things are presently, we have to take ownership in dealing with it.

There’s no single agency, not even government, that can halt the alarming growing rate of knife crime in the UK. The job will require joined-up thinking and cohesive action delivered consistently by a coalition of forces steering in the same direction.

Right now, things are far from being that way.

The result is a multitude of siloed organisations, be they grassroots or otherwise, battling against the omnipresent and forceful tide of nihilistic behaviour.

The actor and anti-knife crime activist understands that the job will require education and early intervention.

Drawing on his own experience growing up, he told Lifestyle that

offering young people options they may not be aware of as early as possible in their lives was key towards steering them in a positive direction.

“My drama teacher said to me when I was 14-years-old, ‘you’re going to be a good actor’, I was like, ‘what, acting? I just like you miss, I just like coming to your class, I can’t be an actor.’ She was like, ‘why not?’

“And that was it, 14, I was swayed.

“It could have been someone saying to me, ‘you can make a lot of money if you can just push this little bag for me.’ I could have been swayed the same way (as some of the youth today).”

OPPORTUNITY He added: “So I do think if we catch them young enough, we’ve got an opportunity to perhaps intervene and show them a different life because usually, at the juncture that they go into a gang, they have gone through some trauma anyway.”

Sticking with the subject of education, Elba said it might be time to look at where and how money is spent in order to redefine how young people are taught in the UK system.

Having visited Feltham Young Offenders Institution in order to interview people caught up in knife crime as part of the making of the documentary, there was a consistent theme that kept raising its head.

“Exclusion is definitely linked to

REFLECTIVE : Idris Elba knows there’s a long road ahead

(photo: BBC)

KEY ROLE: Actor Idris Elba has used his high profile to produce a programme that will make people think some of the numbers we’re seeing in prison,” said Elba.

“Some of the kids I spoke with talked about being excluded from school earlier in their life.

“I think if we really sat down and examined where the money goes into our education system, literally line by line, I think we’d be smart enough to realign. So it’s about how we spend the money.”

He added: “My mum used to say to me, cut your coat according to your size. Which means if you’re buying beers that cost you £5 and you ain’t got rice and chicken, buy one beer and have some chicken.

“This is a country of 66 million people, our GDP is big. Are you telling me we can’t redistribute to face a crisis, with critical thinking behind it? I think we could, and should look at that.”

In the documentary, Elba meets with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles to discuss solutions to the problem with some of the young people most affected by youth violence.

He is adamant that no solutions will be fostered or effective without the youth at the table.

“It’s hard to talk to teenagers,

they don’t want to talk to us, but actually, internally, they are crying for help. And that’s something I have seen and they are prepared to drop their guard.”

He added: “I’ve met with quite a few young people, quite luckily my demographic is quite wide from grannies to the road mandem.

But still, in this conversation, they admire what the efforts are, but they’re like, ‘it’s just talk, what is actually going to happen?’.

“When people talk about a youth centre, they’re like, ‘what’s a youth centre? How’s that going to help? I can’t go to a youth centre.

I might get caught up in some rubbish there’.

LISTENING “So for me, those conversations are about understanding, listening and learning.

“I don’t think that one person can drive it. We need young people to be like ‘yo, we don’t want to do this no more, we don’t want to carry knives’. But they’re forced to. We need them to be at the table. The actual coalition that we have put together, we have young people sitting at the table – young

I believe our film is an opportunity to really look at the slices of perspectives that are on offer people that have set up their own organisations – saying, ‘listen this is what’s actually going on’.”

Diene Petterle, 22Summers cofounder and executive producer, says: “This film is an opportunity to understand knife crime from the inside, through those who live and breathe its reality every day, including perpetrators at Feltham Prison and Young Offender Institution. You don’t often get that kind of access.”

As aforementioned, the issue isn’t going away soon nor in its entirety, but as the documentary

(photo: Louis Carraz)

highlights, if nothing is done now, it will only get worse.

“I want to spread the word as much as I can,” said Elba. “Last year when I started this thread of the campaign which is about being noisy and being demonstrative, I realised then that actually there are layers of information and an understanding that I need to go through.

“This spurred the film. And at this juncture we’ve made something that I think has a palatable way for a larger audience to understand some of the drivers and criteria.

“I want people to see it, that’s what I am really driving for.

Whatever we get from some of these interviews, what I’d love for us to at least achieve is a call to action. Go see it and make up your mind, this isn’t Idris the knife crime expert, this is an opportunity to really look at the slices of perspectives that are on offer.

“Some you will agree with, some you won’t, but at least get engaged.” l Idris Elba: Our Knife Crime Crisis is available to watch on BBC iPlayer

46 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

TOP SPORTS COVERAGE 24/7 VOICE-ONLINE.CO.UK/SPORT

OF SPORT NEWSPAPER

FEBRUARY 2025 | THE VOICE

KAI’S MAKING WAVES

North London teenager Kai Hockley is one of the rising stars in the world of sailing. By Vlad Andrejevic

N

ORTH LONDON’S teenage sailing prodigy Kai Hockley is making impressive waves in the world of sailing.

The 19-year-old, born in Tottenham, has progressed from an after-school club at The Greig City Academy to joining Sir Ben Ainslie’s Emirates GBR SailGP Team last summer.

Despite his young age, he has already competed all around the world on various boats, winning multiple national and international races and awards.

In an interview with the Voice of Sport, he recalled where it all started: “Greig City in Hornsey have a sailing project which a teacher set up a few years before I got there and they have quite a few boats – they buy old boats, refurbish them and sail them.

“We would go to the local reservoir to learn the fundamentals and from there our teacher Mr Holt took us on trips down to the Solent in Isle of Wight and we raced boats called squibs. Where it really progressed is when we started racing small boats in national events.

Mr Holt used to drive me and my team around the country to compete.”

Greig City Academy, where Kai’s sailing career started, was able to run a sailing class on the back of the hard work and commitment from one of their teachers, the aforementioned Jon Holt.

It started out when he purchased and refurbished one boat off eBay, and through his passion, and the subsequent support from the Scaramouche Sailing Trust, it grew into a more sustainable

project. Kai, who got into sailing at the age of 11 along with three other students, quickly showed he had the talent and drive, as well as the capacity to work well within a team, to elevate the after-school club to a competitive level.

At first it was at national level, however that quickly developed into testing themselves on the international scene.

“We’ve competed all over the world – there are loads of competitions around the UK in smaller boats, however with the bigger boats we’ve raced in Miami and in Portugal a lot – it all comes down to Mr Holt,” he explained.

At every opportunity, Kai is very quick to praise the influence of his mentor: “Mr Holt is a legend – he sacrificed a crazy amount of time for us. He has a family – wife and kids, but still sacrificed so much time for us.

“He is super passionate and driven as well as being a great man – there are not many people out there like him.”

Kai also recognises the unwavering support that he received from his parents throughout his development. “At the beginning they thought it was just a cool after-school sport and they were already proud of me then as it took a lot of dedication. There was no weekend I would not go sailing. But now they’ve seen it’s turned out to be a career, they are mega proud of me.”

Despite his humility, Kai’s success is clearly driven by his own passion and ability.

His dedication to the sport became apparent as he started making a 200-mile round trip

MILESTONE: Kai Hockley was selected as an intern for Olympic legend Sir Ben Ainslie’s Emirates team last summer

every weekend to go sailing on the Isle of Wight.

His aspirational and competitive spirit matched perfectly with the demands of competitive sailing. “There is no other sport like sailing. On the weekend you race Olympians, world champions of the sport – I’m pretty sure there are no other sports where you’re competing with people of that calibre at 16/17 years old every weekend. That’s the best part of the sport – the competition against the very best,” added Kai. The ever-changing nature of the sport is another key factor in Kai’s enthusiasm for sailing. “Even if you are on the same water, you’ll never sail a race that is the same – there are so many variables that are always changing.

“It’s good, it keeps you on your a-game, as there is never really a time you can

settle down. It’s always ‘what’s changing next, eyes out of the boat and what’s happening next,” he explained.

“You’re also always travelling the world and exploring new venues.”

Kai shared that his proudest moment to date was competing at Cowes where there were 200 competitors “of the highest calibre”, yet they still managed to come third in class. It led to him picking up the prestigious Cowes Week Young Skipper Trophy in 2023.

It also showcased his skill on a large stage, and stood him out as a perfect candidate to be selected as an intern for Sir Ben Ainslie’s team last summer, another milestone in his extraordinary career to date.

He is currently training as a grinder, the most physical role on the boat, with the dream to become a full-time professional

sailor for the British team in the league, for which he is training even in the off-season.

“My boat is in Southampton, so I might move it to a reservoir to train over winter in preparation for the new season.”

Having also picked up the Youth Sports Trust Young Sportsperson of the Year award at the prestigious Sporting Equals Awards, for his achievements in October, it seems nothing can stop this teenager’s determined rise to the top. l Scaramouche Sailing Trust helps change the lives of young people through sailing. If you have been inspired by Kai’s story and are keen to help more young people who are committed to developing their skills on and off the water, visit their website and get involved, www.scaramouchesailing.org.uk

BRITISH BASKETBALL STAR NETS MAJOR CONTRACT IN NBA

By Rodney Hinds

TOSAN EVBUOMWAN, a native of Newcastle, has signed a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets, making him one of the few British players in the NBA, alongside OG Anunoby (New York Knicks) and Jeremy Sochan (San Antonio Spurs).

This news comes as love for the NBA in the UK grows rapidly, with viewership of all live and off-court content on the NBA app increasing by 52 per cent year on year, and

UK users spending an average of an hour a week on the platform, an increase of 24 per cent year on year.

Before discovering basketball at the age of 14, Tosan enjoyed football, rugby, cricket and track and field, and was even selected for Newcastle United’s Youth Academy.

His Nigerian father’s love of basketball inspired him to play the sport, and he soon made waves at Royal Grammar School in Newcastle, where he helped establish the school’s

basketball team. Tosan played for the Newcastle Eagles U18 team and gained recognition at the Deng Camp, where his standout performances caught the attention of American universities.

He eventually joined Princeton University, thanks in part to highlight reels shared by Newcastle Eagles’ head coach Ian MacLeod.

At Princeton, Tosan became a standout player, earning Ivy League Player of the Year honours and leading the Tigers to a historic

Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament. After going undrafted in 2023, he showcased his talent in the NBA G League, averaging an impressive 18.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game for the San Diego Clippers this season.

His signing with the Nets is a significant moment not only for Tosan but also for British basketball, highlighting the increasing impact of UK players on the global stage and inspiring the younger generation to chase their basketball passion.

HAVING A BALL: Tosan

FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 47

Hitting the slopes as family matters

Apres Royal Ski Club go on groundbreaking holiday in France. By Vlad Andrejevic

A

to my friends and family and they were a bit apprehensive.

They were a bit like ‘it’s going to be cold, it’ll be freezing’ but because it was my birthday, they said they were going to do it,” explained Jenny.

That all changed once they got there. “Everyone that was on that trip was like ‘we’re doing this again’, which surprised even me.

“Even the non-skiers – we had some non-skiers who were a bit too frightened to do it this time, but they are now going to be taking lessons here in London for the next one.”

Jenny described the experience as “invigorating”, not only because of the sport but also the camaraderie of doing something new together, the fresh air, the landscapes and much more.

The age range of the group was from five to 62 years old, yet everyone enjoyed it – with Jenny saying that it even exceeded her own expectations.

These sentiments were echoed by Jenny’s niece, Chantelle.

“We didn’t want to come back home because it was so good, and it wasn’t just about the skiing, but also the atmosphere,” she enthused.

READY FOR ACTION: Most of the group were happy to give skiing a go

SPORT WITH HINDSIGHT A look at sport from our perspective with Voice of Sport editor Rodney Hinds

n MY SOURCES tell me supporters of Ghana, Nigeria, Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica football have good reason to be excited. I’m told the four nations are likely to play each other in the Unity Cup to be held at Charlton FC’s Valley Ground in May. There is still lots to be negotiated but the Voice of Sport was given a heads up and it’s now a case of watch this space! n ANYONE heard of padel? If not, let me furnish you with some details.

Padel, sometimes called padel tennis, is a racket sport of Mexican origin, typically played in doubles on an enclosed court slightly smaller than a doubles tennis court. From what I gather the sport is set to take off in the UK. I have a man on the ground, who tells me that padel will blow up over the next decade. I’m also told that Stormzy has made an investment into padel. If it’s good enough for him, it’s good enough for me.

GROUP THERAPY: The holidaymakers soon got over the cold air

LIFELONG dream to hit the slopes was finally realised with an unforgettable trip in January.

Jenny Moore-Azille, along with 13 other close friends and relatives who make up Apres Royal Ski Club, organised a five-day trip to Chamonix in France to experience skiing for the first time.

It had been something she had wanted to try since her school offered her the opportunity almost 40 years ago.

“I really wanted to go, but back then mum and dad couldn’t afford to send me.

Also, coming from Caribbean parents; my dad was a bit scared to let me go anyway so I definitely wasn’t going,” she reflected. “It wasn’t something that they would have encouraged or even spoke to me about trying.”

The desire to go stuck with her throughout childhood and into her adult life, nagging away at her mind over the years until eventually her son bought her tickets to go.

Then Covid scuppered those plans until finally, for her 50th birthday, Jenny took the reins and organised the trip.

“I expanded (the invitation)

Sport

TWO’S COMPANY: Jenny Moore-Azille and niece Chantelle didn’t want to leave Chamonix

LET’S FACE IT: Leon, left, wasn’t the only one wrapping up, as this group shot shows “The fresh air that you breathe in just makes you feel really good – a lot of us have aches and pains but they disappear whilst you’re out there.

Everyone felt really good in the fresh air out there in the mountains. It was just beautiful.”

Jenny hopes and believes that their experience will encourage other people, especially those from Afro-Caribbean descent, to go skiing.

“We’ve had such a good response from it – that’s not what we were looking for when we went, but the amount of people that have

texted and Instagrammed us, people I don’t even know have contacted to ask about it.”

Chantelle, inset left, concluded: “Not everyone was up for it at first as it’s not something Black people tend to do in terms of going to the cold on holiday. However, seeing other people going will maybe open people’s eyes and make them think ‘well maybe I can go as well, if they have gone why can’t I?’”

n IF YOU beat the best two players in the world, you deserve the glory. That was the case as Madison Keys, right, won the singles’ title at the Australian Open and landed her first Grand Slam after seeing off Aryna Sabalenka.

What disturbed me most during the tournament was some of the crowd behaviour. It was a bit too footballlike with me with several incidents that had no room in tennis stadia.

Cricket, with the advent of T20, has gone down the same path. Not good.

By the way, what’s happened to Coco Gauff? The young American lands her own Open, but now looks a shadow of herself. Too much too soon? n SO Tyson Fury has retired again.

He can spend the recreation time counting his hard earned millions no doubt. It’s the second time he’s ‘hung up his gloves’ but rest assured he’ll be back. He just has to be. Why? Well, in two words: Anthony Joshua. The pair should have met in a mouthwatering ‘Battle of Britain’ years ago but there was more dodgems than a fairground. They both went on to give their sport a boost. Now they are in the same boat, former champions with very little wiggle room in regards their future. They just have to meet in what will be a blockbuster fight that will add to the aforementioned Fury millions. It’s just a matter of time.

48 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025

Sport

JOSHUA BACKING NIGERIAN TALENT TO SUCCEED

W

HILE in Nigeria for the Christmas and New Year holidays, heavyweight Anthony Joshua revealed his plans to invest in the future of boxing in his home country.

He shared his ambition to establish a boxing academy in Nigeria to nurture local talent and provide aspiring boxers with the resources to turn professional.

“When I retire, probably I can think of setting up an academy in Nigeria, and if anyone wants to turn professional, we can also help them,” he said.

Joshua’s commitment to giving back to Nigeria highlights his desire to inspire the next generation of fighters and strengthen the country’s presence on the global boxing stage.

As Joshua reflects on his career and future prospects, he continues to generate excitement in the boxing world. His potential 2025 bout with Tyson Fury could become one of the sport’s most lucrative and memorable events.

However, Fury’s decision to retire has put the ‘Battle of Britain’ on hold for now.

At the same time, his plans for a boxing academy in Nigeria underline his dedication to the sport and his roots.

Whether it’s a clash with Fury or his role in promoting Nigerian talent, Joshua remains a key figure in shaping the future of British boxing. Fans around the world eagerly await what lies ahead for the former heavyweight champion.

In addition to discussing his potential fight with Fury, Joshua also weighed in on another intriguing heavyweight contest – Efe Ajagba against Martin Bakole.

The International Boxing Federation (IBF) in September ordered this bout, which will

British fighter reveals plans to establish boxing academy in his home country. By Rodney Hinds

CHALLENGE: Martin Bakole determine the next mandatory challenger for their heavyweight title. Bakole, a Congolese heavyweight, has made a strong case for his shot at the IBF title.

With two impressive knockout victories over Jared Anderson and Carlos Takam, Bakole has established himself as a serious contender. His powerful

“Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. Efe is a good boxer. I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me”

performances have placed him in prime position to challenge for the championship.

Initially, Bakole was expected to face Agit Kabayel, but Kabayel withdrew from the eliminator bout, paving the way for Ajagba to step in.

Nigerian Ajagba, known as the ‘Nigerian Nightmare,’ has also been making waves in the boxing world. With an impressive professional record of 20 wins and just one loss, including 14 knockouts, Ajagba has earned a reputation as a rising star.

His recent split-decision victory over Guido Vianello is widely regarded as one of the highlights of his career. Additionally, Ajagba claimed the WBC silver title earlier this year, further cementing his status as a top-tier contender.

Joshua was enthusiastic about the prospect of the two African heavyweights clashing: “Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. It’s going to be an interesting fight. Efe is a good boxer, and obviously, I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me,” Joshua remarked with a touch of humour.

As a fellow Nigerian, Joshua made it clear that he is rooting for Ajagba to defeat Bakole: “I’m backing him (to beat Bakole) because we are from the same place, and I really want to see him do well.” l Interview courtesy of

SportsBoom: https:// www.sportsboom.com/boxing/

SETBACK: Anthony Joshua was defeated by Daniel Dubois in their IBF world heavyweight title fight at Wembley Stadium last September