The Voice Newspaper: November 2024 by thevoicemediagroup

NOVEMBER 2024 • ISSUE NO. 1960

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From ‘bad breed’ to comedy star:

How Chris McCaulsky became a ‘Triple Threat’

LABOUR’S SILENCE OVER HESTER WAS ABOUT RACE

› p42

EXCLUSIVE

Diane Abbott tells The Voice that her party’s “astonishing” lack of support following racist comments was because she was a Black MP MP DIANE Abbott has spoken about the emotional toll of her party’s lack of support over racist comments Tory donor Frank Hester made about her in

March.In a candid interview with The Voice she said: “It’s hard to escape… this was about me being a Black politician.” › p4-5

Stay updated on the Chris Kaba case: visit www.voice-online.co.uk This book chronicles the lived experiences of the Black British community over the last four decades. SCAN HERE It is an essential read.

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Inside THIS MONTH

The Voice says

ROUNDUP NEWSPAPER

News, views, stories & videos

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

“You failed us”: Black women demand police apology after train attack

How Guyana’s new oil wealth could transform the Caribbean

Lord Herman Ouseley: remembering a tireless champion for racial justice

A hero’s homecoming: how Marcus Garvey’s reinternment reflects a legacy reclaimed

Alford Gardner: A Windrush pioneer whose legacy helped shape a nation

New Black Tennis Collective is aiming high

Jamaican teachers’ talent, British schools’ profit: a tale of exploitation

HE recruitment of Jamaican teachers to the UK — a growing trend in recent years — is a glaring example of exploitation dressed as opportunity. Promised fulfilling work in one of the most developed education systems, these skilled educators arrive in the UK only to find themselves undervalued, underpaid, and under-supported. They are classified as “unqualified” and denied Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for months, sometimes even years, forcing them to work on a lower pay scale and leaving them struggling in one of the world’s most expensive cities. It’s exploitation, plain and simple, and it’s causing heartbreak not just for these teachers but for the wider Caribbean community. For teachers from Jamaica, this treatment echoes a deeply painful history. One cannot ignore the similarity to the injustices of the Windrush scandal, in which Caribbean citizens who had spent their lives building Britain were treated as disposable, denied basic rights, and left in limbo. The cycle of exploitation has now turned its sights on Jamaican

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

educators — professionals who arrive qualified, only to be told they don’t quite meet British standards, not because of any shortfall in their skills, but to allow schools to squeeze more money from their labour. Many of these teachers were recruited by the Harris Federation, which, as our report on page 33 reveals, has failed to fast-track them through the QTS process. The intention behind this delay is crystal clear: keep pay low and save costs, even as teachers struggle to make ends meet. With reports that over 486 Jamaican teachers were recruited last year, the Harris Federation and others have found a steady stream of high-quality, underpaid labour. Meanwhile, this recruitment drive drains Jamaica of its talent, undermining its education system while British schools reap the benefits of these teachers’ expertise. It’s time to hold institutions like the Harris Federation accountable. Caribbean communities will not stand by while another generation is exploited. Teachers who uproot their lives to support UK schools deserve respect, fair pay, and pathways to thrive, not to be dismissed as cheap labour.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Lord Herman Ouseley passes away after short illness

Chris Kaba’s life mattered, even if the system says otherwise Jamaican ace Mason Holgate, above, held up by red tape

New era for Black financial empowerment as Pentecostal Community Bank launches Chris Kaba: Trial set to begin for Met Police officer charged with murder

Ghanaian King declares Sizzla chief of Rastafari Repatriation to Ghana When innocence doesn’t matter: Marcellus Williams’ execution was a modern-day lynching

‘Black girls have Dads too’: Heinz apologises after ad sparks backlash Chris Kaba’s family vow to fight on after officer acquitted of his murder

Looted Ethiopian shield to return home after being purchased by Ethiopian prince

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NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 3

News Feature

‘WE NEED BLACK AUTHORS’

JoJo & Gran Gran creator calls for better diversity in children’s books. By Sinai Fleary

HE CREATOR of the first-ever animation film about a Black British family to be shown on the BBC is calling for better diversity in children’s books in the UK. Laura Henry-Allain MBE, the creator of the popular CBeebies show JoJo & Gran Gran, which was based on her book, is urging the British publishing industry to back more children’s books by Black authors that feature diverse characters and culturally rich storylines. In 2007, only four per cent of children’s book creators were from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. By 2021, that figure improved to 11.7 per cent. HenryAllain believes that the publishing industry needs to do more work for these figures to further improve and reflect Britain’s ethnic diversity. Speaking to The Voice, she says: “Yes, you could have a Black or Brown character but who is writing the book? Who is illustrating the book? Have they got the lived experience to talk about it? “Just because you have a Black and brown character there, that is not going to mean anything for children in terms of informing them about cultural differences and similarities.” Henry-Allain also believes that there needs to be better long-term support for these authors which would allow them to make writing a viable primary career. “I think we do need to be looking at sustainability for authors, how

IMPORTANCE: Black children need to see themselves in books and TV programmes says Laura Henry-Allain, pictured above (main photo: Getty Images)

she writes, gives speeches, and juggles raising her children, one of whom inspired a character in her new series Daddio & Co. Henry-Allain references her family for a lot of her work and in 2009 when her grandmother died after moving back to St Lucia, she decided to write a children’s book honouring her memory. She said: “I thought children would probably love a book about a little girl and her grandmother, so I self-published the first book.” “Josephine is my middle name, we support authors through the gone global but I hope it’s not the sions around Black fathers are hence JoJo. I didn’t have to research packages and contracts they are quite negative. Even myself, I last Black British animation show far,” she says. given. Even for me, being an author on TV.” wasn’t raised with my dad, my parHenry-Allain’s new book, isn’t my main job, I still have to The popular programme — now ents got divorced. But I think it’s pictured left, Maya and Marley and have other income streams.” really important that we do share in its third series — has been on The Great Big Tidy Up, has just been The author added that despite and show that there are many posiCBeebies for over four years, with published by Ladybird Books and her success with the JoJo & Gran audio versions on BBC Sounds plus tive Black role models who take focuses on a brother and sister and Gran series it has not been easy their fathering role very seriously.” prevented me from writing? No.” games and a space at CBeebies she hopes the book will encourage getting a break in the industry. Land in Alton Towers theme park. She says she is always open about children to play outside and teach The author is now working CHALLENGES her difficulties at school when she them about the importance of on developing another children’s HOMAGE Henry-Allain had to overcome does public speaking or works in recycling and community. animation show for television. She initially created the charsignificant challenges on her path schools, to show others The book is centred around Daddio & Co centres on highlight- to success as an author. As one acters for a self-published book, “it hasn’t prevented me from what Henry-Allain’s childhood adventure ing the role in families played by before pitching a TV adaptation of six children she recalls “always I need to do”. playground Hornimans Adventure Black men. to the BBC. Her idea was turned struggling at school”. The turning point for Henryin west London’s Ladbroke Grove, Explaining the inspiration down several times, before finally She later discovered she was Allain came during a course she “which is slap bang in Carnival getting the green light for the show behind the new series, she said: dyslexic. “It wasn’t officially took on to work with children territory”. “I just wanted to share stories of — which pays homage to her diagnosed until I was in my midunder five. This, she says, led her to “I wanted the characters to be St Lucian heritage — six years ago. their tender masculinity, because 30s. I remember when I was 10 become “the most studious person outside because ... children’s outat times Black men are in the main the teacher told my mum that She said: “I was telling the BBC, ever, because I realised that is door learning [and] play is super shown negatively in the media and I couldn’t spell. I remember her ‘I’m St Lucian heritage and we where I was meant to be”. important, and we know we don’t on TV. They are not necessarily need to be seen more, stories that saying that I couldn’t even spell Since then, she has worked in see so much of this now.” seen in a positive light. positively show the whole of the basic words like ‘down’. But guess nurseries, lectured, and managed l Maya and Marley and The Caribbean’. I’m proud that it has “As we know a lot of the discuswhat? I still can’t spell. But has it curriculums. Now a mother-of-two, Great Big Tidy Up is out now

GHANAIAN KING DECLARES SIZZLA CHIEF OF RASTAFARI REPATRIATION TO GHANA A GHANAIAN King has declared legendary Reggae singer Sizzla Kalonji as the Rastafari Chief of Development for Repatriation to Ghana. Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport, Olivia Grange, announced on social media that King Nana Anim Obiri, the Culture Ambassador in the Office of the President of Ghana, had travelled to Jamaica to make the declaration to the award-winning singer — who

had invited him to the island. Sizzla has always been vocal about the importance of returning to Africa in his music and his new role is expected to encourage more people from Rastafarian and Jamaican communities to permanently move to Ghana. Ms Grange said: “The main purpose of the visit of the Ghanian royal to Jamaica was to declare Dad Sizzla Kalonji (Miguel Collins) as Rastafari Chief of Development for Repatriation to Ghana.” She

added: “The Ghanaian King said he would be spearheading plans for increasing and expanding the Jamaican community in Ghana and would especially welcome students and trained personnel to settle in and develop Ghana.” King Nana Anim Obiri and Sizzla attended the Ethiopian Orthodox Church Service at Holy Trinity Church. He was also welcomed to Sizzla’s world-famous headquarters, Judgement Yard in

August Town. Accompanying them was Queen Mother Moses, Empress of Zion Foundation. During his visit, King Nana Anim Obiri, and Sizzla also visited Ms Grange at her offices in New Kingston, where lengthy discussions took place between the Minister, Permanent Secretary DeanRoy Bernard and senior members of her staff, about various topics including reparations and repatriation. On Instagram, Ms Grange

added: “I pointed to the need for a united body representing Rastafari issues and continued to encourage the setting up of a Rastafari Secretariat that would serve such a purpose. “I indicated further expansion of the representation of Rastafari on the National Council for Reparations.” The visit was King Nana Anim Obiri’s first to Jamaica and said he looked forward to hosting the star in Ghana HONOUR: Sizzla Kalonji in the near future.

4 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

ABBOTT IS BACK — AND SHE’S STRONGER THAN EVER Buoyed by re-election this year, Diane Abbott says her support is key to resilience in an increasingly challenging political landscape. By Richard Sudan

ROM the moment she became the first Black woman elected to the House of Commons in 1987, Diane Abbott has had to face racism and opposition at every turn — even from within her own party. But 2024 has tested her resolve like never before. In March, a shocking revelation came to light: during a 2019 meeting at his business headquarters entrepreneur and leading Tory party donor Frank Hester, declared that Abbott “made him want to hate all Black women” and that she “needed to be shot”. His words were not just hateful, but incendiary — reigniting the ugliest stereotypes about Black women in British public life. The backlash to his chilling words was swift, with politicians and commentators from all quarters condemning Hester’s remarks as a frightening incitement to violence against her. Yet as Abbott bravely spoke of her vulnerability — a public figure who regularly travelled on public transport — another storm was brewing.

Her own party, under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer, remained disturbingly silent, leaving many to wonder why one of Labour’s longest-serving MPs was denied the support she clearly deserved. “The lack of solidarity from the party was astonishing even to me,” she explains. “At first I thought the Labour Party was going to condemn Frank Hester without mentioning me. “They had a quote saying that the Tories shouldn’t be taking any money from Hester but they didn’t mention me and I’m not sure if it even mentioned race. “The next morning a shadow

“Nowadays, you can use a keyboard and you can abuse me. You used to have to write and send a letter”

- Diane Abbott

minister was on Sky talking about it. And the presenter asked, ‘Have you reached out to Diane?’ The shadow minister looked very embarrassed and kind of squirmed because they hadn’t reached out to me. And yet they even tried to raise money off the back of it. They’d given me no support, personal support or even talked to my staff. “That was very difficult, and it’s hard to escape the conclusion that this wasn’t just about the fact I was a left-wing politician. It was about the fact I was a Black politician and that’s why they could feel this sense of distance.” Abbott’s experience resonated with large sections of the public and particularly with the Black community. It wasn’t just their horror at the fact a Black MP could be publicly threatened and abandoned by her own side. The respected MP’s treatment was viewed as the final straw for many loyal supporters in a long list of incidents that reflected a growing view that the party was taking Black voters for granted. Black women especially saw themselves in Abbott and identified with her experience. Long-held concerns about the safety of Black women were

propelled into the public domain following the Hester scandal. So too was the double standard at play in response. A number of commentators argued that if it had been a White woman to whom those comments were directed the person accused of making them would have been arrested and investigated without hesitation. ISSUE It’s an issue that Abbott has often had to deal with. “My life, professional and political has never been easy. That’s the thing and so what happened in recent years wasn’t very nice. But it wasn’t uncharacteristic of my experiences. It was just probably the most public,” she says. “I’ve always had to deal with a level of racist abuse, racist letters for example, and it got worse with the emergence of online. “When I was a new MP if you wanted to abuse me or any other Black MP, you had to get a piece of paper. You had to write a letter you had to put it in an envelope, put a

HISTORY-MAKER: Abbott made history as the first Black woman elected to the House of Commons in 1987. With her at that year’s Labour Party conference are, from left, Bernie Grant, Paul Boateng, Neil Kinnock and Keith Vaz (photo: Getty Images) stamp on the envelope and go out and find a letterbox. Nowadays, you just have to press keys on a keyboard and you can abuse me. You can abuse half a dozen other Black MPs in half an hour. “So at first (when Hester’s comments were made public) I thought, ‘OK, this is not out of line with a kind of abuse that we get. But I have to admit that nowadays I don’t read all my correspondence, because to read it all would be very

upsetting. My staff read it so that was my initial thought, that, you know, this is kind of racist abuse. This is what happens. But there was a point when I thought about it a bit more. There was something a bit frightening about it. And this thing about, ‘Oh, she should be shot!’ “That was concerning. Two MPs have been killed in recent years and I felt very vulnerable, I try nowadays not to use public transport because you just feel at risk.”

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 5

News Feature CALL ME MOTHER: Earlier this year Diane Abbott was awarded the title ‘Mother of the House’, a prestigious honour given to the female member of parliament with the longest service

(photo: Getty Images)

BACKING: Abbott says she was moved by level of support for which she feels forced Labour to allow her to stand in the election (photo: Getty Images)

Photo: Getty Images

EMPOWERED: Abbott speaks for the first time in public after having her whip returned on the steps of Hackney Town Hall on May 29 this year (photo: Getty Images)

SILENT: Labour party leader Sir Keir Starmer She continues: “It’s extraordinary how those who are not people of colour tried to play Hester’s comments down. It showed you, on the one hand how deeply racism is ingrained in a society. “But, on the other hand, how unwilling a lot of people are — perfectly nice people — to face up to the racism in society.” For Black women, however, feeling vulnerable in the face of racism has been a long-held experience. But so has resilience and determination in the face of

discrimination. Resilience and determination is a theme that shines through in Abbott’s new book, A Woman Like Me. And it’s clear that her resolve to accomplish things is concrete. Despite years of facing racist abuse, political betrayal, and being underestimated, Abbott remains where she belongs, a revered figure in British politics, her respect and dignity unblemished. Her new book provides a window into the inner strength that has defined Abbott’s character through decades of change and politics. This inner strength was much needed when the prospect arose of her being barred from standing in the general election held earlier this year, her political future hanging in the balance. Abbott, the first Black woman elected to parliament, had been suspended in April 2023 for comments in which she said that Jewish, Irish, and Traveller people did not face racism “all their lives”. She later apologised and withdrew her remarks in a letter to the Observer newspaper. However, despite her apology, she was suspended from the party

in April 2023 and had the whip withdrawn. Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) issued her with a “formal warning” for “engaging in conduct that was in the opinion of the NEC, prejudicial and grossly detrimental to the Labour Party”. Consequently she sat as an independent MP while an internal investigation into her comments was launched. PROTEST As the date for the general election loomed, there was no indication that she would be allowed to stand as a Labour MP, something she wanted. Speculation that this might not happen prompted a storm of protest from her supporters and tough questions for party leader Sir Keir Starmer who, following the general election in July, became Prime Minister. He denied accusations that Labour was preventing Abbott from running and defending the seat she had held since 1987. The prospect of Britain’s first Black woman MP being forced out of the Labour Party sent

shockwaves through Hackney and beyond. Rallies were held outside Hackney Town Hall, a backlash the Labour leadership had grossly underestimated. Several rallies were held outside Hackney Town Hall where a defiant Abbott assured her constituents she intended to run as a Labour candidate. As the general election drew closer, the party’s internal divisions over her candidacy deepened. But with mounting pressure from her supporters, the party made a last-minute decision: Diane Abbott would stand as the Labour candidate once again. The news was greeted as a huge victory for grassroots political campaigning. Abbott went on to triumph being re-elected with a thumping majority in Stoke Newington and Hackney North amid a Labour landslide election win. Supporters claimed her success made an important statement after a row around whether or not she would be allowed to stand for Labour this time. Abbott was later awarded the title ‘Mother of the House’, a prestigious honour given to the female member of parliament with the longest service. Reflecting on the ordeal, Abbott said: “I decided in my mind, it’s down to them. But I wasn’t going to make it easy for them. And so I had prepared myself for being removed. But I was moved by the level of support, and the level of support was such that they had to give in.” Abbott has had many great

moments in her political career and this book captures them. But arguably one of her greatest was standing firm and winning back her seat at this year’s general election with all the forces of party machinery seemingly conspiring against her. After perhaps the most turbulent year in her career you might think the veteran social justice campaigner is considering calling it a day. However, you’d be wrong. COMMITMENT The veteran campaigner revealed she will stand for re-election once again in 2029. “It’s possible that I might not have stood last time,” she explains. “But they were so determined to crush me and stop me standing and that’s what made me stand.” Born to Jamaican working class parents, Abbott’s upbringing was defined by commitment and perseverance. From a young age, she was determined to push boundaries. Against the odds, she convinced her teachers to let her apply to Cambridge, considered a bold move by some. But Abbott wasn’t just intellectually sharp — she was willing to outwork everyone around her. This set the stage for her career. “Both my parents left school at 14,” she reflects, “so Cambridge was sort of like a fairyland to me. The architecture, all these students

going around in striped scarves. My teachers tried to tell me I wasn’t up to it, but I was very insistent. The first thing I learned is that if you insist on something you can get through. The second thing I learned is that I was as good as anyone else.” After Cambridge, she joined the civil service. But she knew she wanted the power to make change. After a stint in the media she soon dived into politics, and in 1987, made history as the first Black woman elected to the House of Commons. Her book, though, is about more than her own journey. It’s a narrative of the social struggles of Britain throughout the years mixed with the personal. Abbott’s story speaks to key moments of Black British history. “I’ve never really looked back on my life,” says Abbott “but what I realised was, when I was elected back in 1987, I was the only Black woman for 10 years. “When I look back now at some of the situations I found myself in, both in and out of parliament, I was forced to reflect on how I managed and how I survived. And I suppose I managed because I took things one step at a time. “They have a saying in Jamaica. Just put one foot in front of the other. And so I spent 37 years as an MP just putting one foot in front of another.” For Abbott, the marginalisation of Black people goes hand in hand with political underrepresentation — an issue she is passionate about. “Unless Labour starts delivering for working-class people and stops taking the Black vote for granted, then its vote could collapse. It has collapsed. The fact we won a huge majority conceals the fact that our share of voters has collapsed. So unless we learn, we could go the way of other European countries with neofascist parties.” n Dianne Abbott’s memoir, ‘A Woman Like Me’, is published by Viking and available to order now

6 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News

Jeanell Hippolyte is challenging a High Court decision denying her indefinite leave to remain, despite her siblings receiving it under the Windrush Scheme. By Sinai Fleary

WOMAN whose family has been granted British citizenship because of their father’s Windrush status is bringing a High Court challenge to a decision to deny her indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK. Jeanell Hippolyte’s sister and two brothers have all been given leave to remain in the UK under the Windrush Scheme because

of their father’s Windrush status — but she has been denied ILR status for more than 20 years. In early October, her judicial review claim against the Home Secretary’s decision was heard at the High Court in London. Hippolyte, 41, claims the decision to deny her ILR is an injustice. She said: “My dad came to the UK as part of the Windrush Generation in 1956. I came to

the UK as his daughter, to study here in 2000. “I wanted to stay and make a life here, like the rest of my family have been allowed to do. “But simply because my dad’s Windrush status was not rubber-stamped until 2003, I have never been able to live here continuously. As a result, I have had to split my life between the UK and St Lucia, and that means

Photo: Leigh Day

WINDRUSH DAUGHTER’S FIGHT FOR UK RESIDENCY

INJUSTICE: Jeanell Hippolyte is determined to stay in the UK

I have been denied the same right that the rest of my family has been granted to live here permanently. “This is an injustice that I want to see corrected, not just for me, but for all of the other Windrush Generation children who have been affected by this loophole.” Born in Castries, St Lucia, she arrived in the UK in August 2000 when she was 17. Her father Cletus travelled to

the UK in 1956 and by the time he was joined by his daughter, his presence and status would have given her eligibility for an application for ILR. However, Hippolyte’s applications have been repeatedly denied, despite legal interventions and pleas on her behalf. The Home Office has defended its decision on the basis that she has not been continuously

a resident in the UK since she arrived in 2000. However, as her continuous residency would have been dependent on her father proving his own immigration status, and he was not officially granted ILR until 2003 and then British citizenship in 2018, Hippolyte had to leave the UK after her student visa expired in 2002. Her subsequent applications to return to the UK, made in February 2006 and 2008, were refused. From 2008 until summer 2020, she lived between the UK and St Lucia. She has been continuously in the UK since August 10, 2020. Meanwhile, her sister Sherryanne Desmangles was granted British citizenship as a result of her application to the Windrush Scheme in 2018; her brothers Denzel and Danny were granted indefinite leave to remain through the Windrush Scheme and naturalised in 2019. Following a visit to St Lucia in 2019, Cletus disappeared and is now presumed to be dead. Hippolyte’s legal team at law firm Leigh Day say that it is an historic injustice that although her father was a Windrush generation migrant, she has been denied ILR because in 2002 he did not have the documentation which would have permitted her to stay in the UK.

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 7

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

DON’T LET YOUR PRIDE GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR HEALTH: MARCUS’S CROHN’S STORY

Marcus with his fiancée Alethea

arcus Griffiths was diagnosed with Crohn’s – a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease - when he was a teenager. He was embarrassed at first and found it difficult to talk about. But now, after years of hiding his condition and worrying about what people might think, he’s decided to speak out to help other people who might be struggling with the same thing. “I was about 14 when I first started experiencing agonising stomach cramps. I went to the GP who thought it was probably constipation or piles. I told myself it was nothing serious and kind of adjusted my life to try and cope with my symptoms. But a couple of years later, I became so ill that my parents took me to A&E. While I was there, I started throwing up blood and was sent for a whole load of tests.

SYMPTOMS That moment when the doctor told me I had Crohn’s Disease was scary. But weirdly, it was also a bit of a relief because at least I had a name for what was going on in my body. I had absolutely no idea what Crohn’s was, and most people I knew had never heard of it either. But it was a start. I got some medication and a leaflet with some basic facts

about Inflammatory Bowel Disease. I know my body a lot better now, so I know what works for me and what doesn’t, but there was a lot of trial and error at first. By the time I reached my mid20s, I was getting new symptoms that I’d never had before. So I joined the charity Crohn’s & Colitis UK and looked on their social media. It was actually so refreshing to see all the jargon broken down into layman’s terms so I could understand it. And I found other people who had been through the same thing and could talk me through what to expect. I was in the dark about a lot of stuff and I found real strength in that community. Crohn’s used to be a stigma thing for me. I would never really disclose it. I just didn’t want people to know I had this huge thing going on. Work was especially tricky. I’d be scared to tell employers about my Crohn’s, then I’d have a flare up and have to take time off, but I would think: ‘I can’t really disclose this now, because I didn’t say anything before.’

I really backed myself into a bit of a corner, so I decided to change that. Now, I feel I should bring it up, and unlike when I was younger, loads of people tell me that they have loved ones with Crohn’s or Colitis, so they want to talk about it. I’ve lived through it for so long, maybe I can help.

SUPPORT If you’re reading this and worrying about symptoms like blood in your poo or stomach cramps and weight loss, then just go and speak to a doctor. I know it can be really tempting to just ignore them, but the sooner you get a diagnosis, the better. I’ve seen it in my own family, and trust me, getting it sorted early is always better. And if I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be: ‘Don’t be ashamed. There is so much support out there, don’t let your pride, fear, or stubbornness stop you accessing it. Speak up. Your Crohn’s isn’t going anywhere, so just embrace it. You will succeed.’”

HAPPIER NOW: Marcus Griffiths

ALL ABOUT INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE • Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with Crohn’s or Colitis every year in the UK • Symptoms include blood in poo, diarrhoea, urgency, stomach cramps and unexplained weight loss

• There’s no cure for Crohn’s or Colitis, but there are lots of treatments available • Check out Crohnsandcolitis.org.uk for lots more information, including a handy 30-second symptom checker

For more information about Crohn’s or Colitis please visit: https://crohnsandcolitis.org.uk

8 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News

Thea Sobers

Opinion

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

DEMENTIA CARE SHOULD BE THERE FOR ALL OF US Help for those suffering from the condition continues to be focused primarily on white Britons

GROWING up in Barbados, I have a lot of fond memories of my childhood and teenage years. One of the things I loved was the close-knit nature of the communities and families. I grew up surrounded by grandparents, greatgrandparents, cousins, and many other family members, and it felt like there was always something to celebrate — a festival, a tradition, or just the joy of being part of a strong cultural identity. But one of the things that always struck me was how issues surrounding mental health were swept under the carpet, especially dementia. There was always a pervasive fear of being judged or looked at differently by peers and the wider community. On a small island where everyone knows everyone, once a personal matter becomes public, it quickly spreads. CAREER It is these early experiences that spurred me to pursue a career in mental health, breaking down the barriers that exist in Black, African and Caribbean communities when it comes to accessing healthcare. One of my first roles after moving to the UK when I was 18 was supporting the mental health of children and adolescents. Following this, I moved on to research focused roles and projects exploring substance abuse in the Caribbean, and how minority ethnic groups perceive and engage with UK dementia services. In my current role at Dementia UK, the specialist dementia nurse charity, I lead on research projects looking at experiences and support needs of people living with young onset dementia (where symptoms occur before the age of 65) and their families. I feel very lucky that I am able to continue working in a role that allows me to improve the health needs of people

from underserved communities. Three per cent of people currently living with dementia in the UK are from minority ethnic backgrounds, according to figures from Alzheimer’s Research UK. That’s more than 25,000 people, with the number expected to increase. We also know from several studies that within Black, African and Caribbean communities, there is a much higher incidence of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke and heart disease, all of which puts people from these communities at increased risk of developing dementia. They are also at greater risk of experiencing poor health associated with socioeconomic circumstances. Despite these figures, dementia care for people from Black, African and Caribbean backgrounds continues to fall short. Research from the Alzheimer’s Society shows that people from African and Caribbean backgrounds access dementia care later than White British people and are more likely to be in crisis when they do, having a detrimental impact on the care they receive. Having worked closely with many families living with dementia or poor mental health, it has become apparent to me that there is a lack of culturally tailored support for families with dementia from minority

‘Diversity’ needs to be more than a buzzword. It needs to be actionable, as opposed to simply expecting diverse communities to ‘fit’ into the structures that already exist

CONCERNS: Many families feel their cultural heritage is not represented in day-to-day dementia care and, as a result, are less likely to engage with health services, says Thea Sobers (photo: Getty

Images)

ethnic communities, as well as a limited understanding among healthcare professionals on how to effectively engage people from these communities. Consider the memory test a person must undergo to determine a diagnosis of dementia. This process often does not take into account cultural background. Many of the questions tend to be focused on British culture and history, including asking the person to name members of the monarchy, political leaders and everyday objects found in British households. As the test is only done in English, a person who does not speak the language has to hope the service has employed a translator or arrange one themselves, which can be an arduous process. This is exacerbated by the fact that many informational resources offered by health services designed to build awareness of dementia and how to seek a diagnosis are predominantly written in English. With the diagnostic pathway being so fraught with barriers, a large subset of the population, many of whom are from the Black, African and Caribbean communities, face delays when accessing the necessary support. Speaking of culturally tailored care, many of the families I’ve come into contact with from these communities who are

living with dementia, often feel their heritage is not represented in their dayto-day care. Take food for example. Many people from these communities have grown up with certain foods and cuisines which they are used to. Yet when they attend local services, support groups or even move into residential care, they are expected to eat Western food. Something as simple as having a dish from your childhood served to you, or a song you used to play can have such a profound effect on wellbeing and help create an environment of safety. IDENTITY Religious factors are also really important to consider here, with Christianity and Islam being two of the most common religions among these communities. It’s vital the person living with dementia is able to maintain and observe their religious identity. This can only be achieved through personalised care, getting to know the individual and their experiences. People may reach out for dementia services and support, but if their cultural needs aren’t met, they’ll be more reluctant to engage and take up the offer of help. There are also barriers that exist prior to support services

is a genuine worry that coming forward with symptoms may mean the person’s independence will be taken from them. When discussing healthcare outcomes for people from African, Caribbean and Black communities, the word ‘stigma’ is often front and centre. However, it is vital CARING: Thea grew up in Barbados where her experiences we see beyond this term as shaped her passion for open it does not encapsulate the very complex experiences dialogue around mental health that many people from these communities face when seeking dementia coming into the picture. An issue care. Similarly, ‘diversity’ needs that can be culturally rooted in to be more than a buzzword Black, African and Caribbean in healthcare circles. It needs communities — and something to be actionable, as opposed I witnessed in Barbados to simply expecting diverse commonly — is the association communities to ‘fit’ into the between dementia and being structures that already exist ‘crazy’ or ‘mad’, because of the and are catered towards the way that mental health concerns White British population. Everyone deserves the right are viewed. This can stop people from seeking support when to good quality dementia care symptoms first appear and can from the point of seeking a lead to health concerns being diagnosis, all the way through swept under the carpet due to the to the end of life. No one should have to face dementia alone. fear of judgement. Additionally, many people from diverse communities have n If You need advice or support a strained relationship with on living with dementia, contact the healthcare system due to Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse previous negative events, such as Dementia experiencing discrimination and Helpline on 0800 racism from healthcare workers. 888 6678 or Fear of institutionalisation email helpline@ can be a big factor too; there dementiauk.org THEA SOBERS IS A RESEARCH ASSISTANT AT DEMENTIA UK

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 9

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

Come celebrate with us a Royal Christmas

HE LONDON Community Gospel Choir will be joined by some very special guests as they return to the Royal Albert Hall for their annual Christmas show Fri 20 Dec. The line-up will see the choir collaborating with a host of top names, including Clinton Jordan, Mo Brandis and Katie Coleman – with more to be announced.

UPLIFTING

The show, as always, will be filled with uplifting festive tunes and gospel classics. “The Royal Albert Hall is an iconic venue that we love coming back to every year, and Christmas is our favourite season to celebrate,” said Leonn Meade, Creative and Musical Director

of London Community Gospel Choir.

TOGETHER

“It gives us chance to come together with the full orchestra, five-piece band and show off our arrangements, musicality and vocal abilities, as well as the chance to collaborate with some of our most-loved artists. But it’s the amount of people in the audience that come out to celebrate and join in with us to sing and play together that excites us most.” Celebrate the festive season at the Royal Albert Hall with immaculate gospel vibes that are guaranteed to get you in the Christmas mood.

Christmas

at the

Royal Albert Hall London Community Gospel Choir // Trevor Nelson

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10 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News VICTORY: The three women, known collectively by supporters as #KingsCross3, said they were relieved after the charges were dropped but angry at what they said was an injustice that has left them traumatised

FIGHT GOES ON FOR THE #KINGSCROSS3 Despite an assault case being dropped, three Black women are now calling for an off-duty officer to be held to account. By Sinai Fleary

HREE Black British women who say they were victims of a violent racist attack on the London Underground are set to take legal action against an off-duty Metropolitan detective constable who witnessed the shocking incident but “did nothing.” Selma Taha, the executive director of Southall Black Sisters (SBS), along with her friends Danae Thomas and Divina Riggon, known as the #KingsCross3, were physically assaulted and subjected to vile racist verbal abuse from a White female passenger, while travelling from Camden Town to King’s Cross Underground station last year. The three friends claim they were subjected to monkey

sounds and were called “Black b*****s” and “slaves”, while on the Northern Line on September 29, 2023. An off-duty Met detective constable was present in the same tube carriage but failed to intervene or de-escalate the incident. Speaking to The Voice, just over a year on from the incident, two of the women insist they are the victims of an injustice and are calling for the off-duty officer to be held to account for his lack of action. “He did nothing until it became physical, extremely physical, and that’s when he stepped in,” Ms Taha said. “I was injured, there was no interest in him carrying out his duties to the extent that we expect of them.” During the attack, Ms Taha and Ms Thomas had clumps of their

BACKING: Supporters of the three women wait for them outside court following news that the charges had been dropped hair pulled out. The charity leader was bitten — which left a deeply embedded imprint of the alleged attacker’s teeth on her body, and she needed a tetanus and hepatitis injections and antibiotics. Their alleged attacker was offered and accepted a caution for racially aggravated conduct under the Public Order Act, and no further action was taken for her behaviour. “That is a grave injustice. We

can’t hold our attacker accountable because they just offered her a caution and she accepted it and that’s how the law works,” Ms Taha said. The women challenged the offduty Met detective about his lack of action and they believe because of this, they subsequently faced serious consequences for it, with a string of charges brought against them. “For that we got punished,

“It impacted every aspect of our lives because when you are going through it you are fighting for your freedom, your reputation, there’s concerns about your employment so that affects you financially. It’s there constantly.” – Danae Thomas

reined in and basically told know your place,” the charity director said. All three women were charged with common assault by beating and had a trial hanging over their heads for ten months. Ms Riggon and Ms Thomas were also charged with public order offences. Ms Thomas was accused of racial aggravation and this charge was dropped. On July 10, 2024, the CPS eventually dropped all the charges against the three women, citing the evidence available was not enough for it to have a realistic prospect of conviction. Now the women are also calling for a formal public apology from the Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police and the CPS. “We are exploring our options through the civil courts,” said Ms Taha. “Yes they have dropped the charges, but they should have never been brought in the first place.” The charity boss is also demanding to know who decided to pursue charges against her and her friends, questioning the lack

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 11

News of evidence and investigation. She criticised the off-duty detective, saying, “You failed us terribly; you did not do your job.” Ms Thomas believes race influenced their treatment by the police and justice system, stating: “We were victims, not guilty of anything. As Black women, we are seen as less than, and even in victimhood, we are penalised.” Even though the ordeal happened over a year ago, the women say they are struggling to come to terms with what happened. Ms Thomas said: “It impacted every aspect of our lives because when you are going through it you are fighting for your freedom, your reputation, there’s concerns about your employment so that affects you financially and the repercussions of not having any money. It’s there constantly.” Ms Taha says being a Black woman “limited” how she could defend herself during the attack — because of how she would be perceived and treated afterwards. “I remember vividly the night and I remember what was going on in my head and foreseeing ten steps ahead how this could turn out, which limited my ability to be able to even protect myself or defend myself because I’m a Black woman and she’s a White woman,” she said. She recalled thinking about her career as an executive director for a leading domestic violence charity which stopped her from defending herself.

TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE: (l-r) Selma Taha, Divina Riggon and Danae Thomas were charged with common assault by beating and had a trial hanging over their heads for ten months

“It’s just like you can’t win,” she added. Ms Taha believes they were charged due to a lack of witnesses and the off-duty officer’s biased interpretation of the incident. She claims he relied on racist tropes, viewing them as aggressive Black women while sympathising with a White woman, which she felt influenced the CPS’s decision to pursue charges against them. The women said the long and drawn-out process has “prolonged the trauma” they experienced

on the evening of the attack. “It still leaves a scar because it’s the most traumatic experience we’ve experienced in our lives. That fighting for survival keeps you on high alert,” MS Thomas said. “It’s a different fight now. We’re not fighting for our lives, we are fighting for justice and transparency, so it’s still there.” Ms Taha says she has physical scars which are a constant reminder to her of that harrowing night. “It’s visible and I see it every time I take a shower or change

my clothes it’s just there,” she explained. The way both women travel around London has now changed. “I have not taken any long trips on public transport and I don’t know if I can,” said Ms Taha. “I’ve tried to before, but I just can’t do it, and I don’t know when that will happen. So, it’s been an extremely very expensive year. I feel like that choice has been taken away,” she said. To feel safe while travelling by train to destinations outside London, Ms Taha now asks someone to accompany her. She describes being even on “more of an alert” if she is the only Black person in a space and said the whole situation has made her feel “exhausted and drained.” Similarly, Ms Thomas said she also scans the tube before getting on to ensure she is not the only Black person in a carriage. “I don’t make eye contact with anyone, I just look at my phone” she said. “It’s just a change in my whole demeanour, I’m just very alert and my shoulders are up and I’m tense. Now when a White person looks at me on the train I’m wondering what they are thinking. “We were called some vile things by this woman.” She continued: “We don’t even have the luxury to address our trauma because as Black women, like with everything else, we have to put that aside and carry on and

we don’t even get them to protect

At every level of our case we’ve “It’s a different us. seen the unfair treatment that fight now. We’re we get as Black people in this country, and you just think ‘when not fighting is it going to stop’? It’s tiring and exhausting.” for our lives, The women are calling for reforms to the criminal we are fighting urgent justice system, emphasising change will only come for justice and that through grassroots campaigning. Taha cites her experience, transparency” Ms the Macpherson Report, and

- Selma Taha the Casey Review as proof

keep on moving. That’s frustrating for me, I want my trauma dealt with.” All three women are angry that their attacker wasn’t prosecuted, while they faced charges. They also questioned why the attacker wasn’t held accountable after accepting a caution, highlighting what they see as injustice and unfair treatment, which fuels their continuing anger. The charity’s leader described the criminal justice system as being “broken for a very long time” and says it continuously fails Black and brown communities. “We are made to feel like secondclass citizens,” she said. She added: “We contribute into a system that we get nothing out of, it’s unfair. We live in this country, and we have systems and measures to protect us — the citizens — and even when we do contribute to it

of institutional racism in the Met Police. They aim to use their ordeal to demand reforms, including independent monitoring and segregated data by protective characteristics, that they believe will help better identify who incidents like theirs happen to and who it doesn’t. “We know that we are disproportionally represented throughout the whole criminal justice system and at every level from reporting or being criminalised right through to the courts” she said. “They need to show willingness, and by implementing policies and reforms that are meaningful and that work and that are not just a tick box exercise. “Black communities need to be consulted on proposed concrete and meaningful reforms.” “We need acknowledgement from the top down that the criminal justice system is racist.”

12 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News Feature

HOW GUYANA’S OIL WEALTH COULD HELP THE CARIBBEAN

The region needs to work together to ensure the most is made of this huge opportunity to flourish and prosper. By Lyndon Mukasa

CHANCE TO GROW: Stabroek Market, a busy hub in Georgetown, Guyana. Plans are being developed to improve the city’s transport links, which President Ali insists will be crucial in helping the Caribbean move forward as a unified economic force

T THE heart of South America’s dense rainforests lies Guyana, a small nation on the brink of monumental change. Since 2019, when one of the world’s largest oil reserves was discovered off its coast, Guyana has been thrust into the global spotlight. The discovery, which totals a staggering 11 billion barrels of oil, has the potential to transform this nation of just 800,000 people — and neighbours in the Caribbean. President Dr Irfaan Ali is optimistic that Guyana’s oil wealth will not only elevate his country but also reshape the entire Caribbean region. “The prosperity of Guyana must result in the prosperity of the region,” Ali boldly declared during a recent meeting in London. But while the riches of oil promise a brighter future, the road ahead is lined with challenges — both domestic and regional.

(Photos: Getty Images)

OPTIMIST: Irfaan Ali Hurricane Beryl in Grenada and St Vincent as examples of how Guyana’s rising fortunes can directly impact its neighbours.

Guyana’s growth: a boon for the Caribbean? Oil is often seen as both a blessing cerns. Much of Guyana’s wealth and a curse for developing counis concentrated in urban areas, tries, but Guyana is determined particularly Georgetown, while to avoid the infamous “resource rural communities, home to 78 per curse.” While wealth from oil cent of the population, still strugA region set to benefit extraction could potentially push gle with limited infrastructure, Dr Ali’s vision extends far beyond Guyana to the top of the Caribbean healthcare, and education. Guyana’s borders. He sees the economic leaderboard, there are President Ali acknowledged development of his country as worries about whether this rapid this divide, stating that part of the a chance to uplift the entire development will be managed country’s economic growth stratCaribbean. effectively. egy involves breaking down the Speaking to a captivated audiBy 2029, projections suggest barriers between rural and urban ence, he stressed the importance of Guyana’s GDP could hit regions. “The infrastructure that regional integration and collabora- $31.18 billion, surpassing the we are building — be it in health or tion. “We see the region as an inteBahamas, which has traditionally education — is an infrastructure grated whole,” he said. “We are now been the Caribbean’s wealthiest that will help our regional partworking with other stakeholders independent nation. ners,” he remarked. in the region to create a regional However, while overall GDP Beyond its own borders, Guytransportation structure, creating growth paints a rosy picture, ana’s oil wealth is being positioned that critical link between Brazil as a tool for broader Caribbean income inequality and uneven and the rest of the region for the co-operation. Dr Peter Ramsaroop, development remain major conmovement of food and security.” This plan for enhanced regional connectivity is not just rhetoric; significant infrastructure projects are already underway. One of the most ambitious is the construction of a 345-mile road linking Georgetown, Guyana’s capital, to the Brazilian border. This project, President Ali insists, will be crucial in helping the Caribbean move forward as a unified economic force. In a region vulnerable to natural disasters and economic instability, the opportunity to harness Guyana’s new-found wealth for collective benefit has been welcomed DISPUTE: A Guyanese resident observes part of the Essequibo by many. region. Guyana faces pressure from Venezuela’s claim to the Dr Ali pointed to his country’s Essequibo region and influx of over 25,000 Venezuelan refugees recent aid efforts following

Chief Investment Officer at the Guyana Office for Investment, stressed the role of Guyana in advancing regional goals. According to Dr Ramsaroop, Guyana has already emerged as a regional leader in climate, food, and energy security. He attributes this success to the country’s vast natural resources and strategic investments in renewable energy. The hope is that Guyana’s rise will create opportunities for more Caribbean-based solutions to regional challenges, such as climate resilience and sustainable development.

for environmental degradation. President Ali has expressed his commitment to maintaining a balance between development and conservation, but the scale of the challenges is immense. Moreover, the influx of foreign interests in Guyana’s oil sector — particularly from the United States, China and Venezuela — has added another layer of complexity. While foreign investment is essential to oil extraction and infrastructure development, locals are wary that Guyana could lose control of its own wealth. President Ali, however, has dismissed these fears, emphasising Obstacles on the horizon the need for external expertise to For all the optimism surrounding fill the country’s current labour Guyana’s oil wealth, significant shortage. “We are short of 150,000 hurdles lie ahead. Rapid economic workers,” he noted, referring to the development brings its own set of urgent need for skilled labour to complications. complete ongoing development Some fear that Guyana’s instiprojects. tutions are ill-prepared for the pressures of managing such vast Regional security and resources. Venezuela’s threat Allegations of political favourit- One of the most immediate ism along ethnic lines — between concerns for Guyana is its tense the Indo- and Afro-Guyanese com- relationship with Venezuela, which munities — have already fuelled has laid claim to the resource-rich concerns about corruption and Essequibo region. mismanagement. This long-standing territoThere are also environmental rial dispute has flared up again in concerns. Over 85 per cent of recent years, adding pressure on Guyana’s landmass is covered Guyana’s government. Alongside by pristine rainforest, and with the territorial dispute, the country oil extraction and infrastructure is also grappling with the arrival projects ramping up, there is grow- of more than 25,000 Venezuelan ing anxiety about the potential refugees fleeing their country’s

economic collapse, further straining local resources. But despite these challenges, President Ali remains steadfast in his belief that Guyana’s success will contribute to the Caribbean’s collective prosperity. His administration has been actively supporting regional efforts through CARICOM, including working to stabilize the political situation in Haiti. The vision is clear: as Guyana rises, so too should the fortunes of its Caribbean neighbours. The path forward Guyana stands at a crossroads. The future holds immense potential, but only if the country can navigate the pitfalls that often accompany rapid economic growth. President Ali has pledged to ensure that the country’s wealth benefits not only the Guyanese people but the wider Caribbean as well. As Guyana takes on a leadership role in the region, its ability to manage both its new-found wealth and the challenges ahead will be closely watched. For now, hope is high. The discovery of oil has put Guyana on the path to becoming a regional powerhouse. Whether it can remain on that path depends on how it balances development, sustainability, and regional cooperation. As Dr Ali claimed during the recent meeting in London, “The prosperity of Guyana must result in the prosperity of the region.”

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 13

BLACK BANKING ENTERS NEW ERA THANKS TO PCB

News HISTORIC: There was a large crowd at the bank’s launch event

Pentecostal Community Bank aims to help Black Britons overcome financial barriers. By Marcia Dixon

MAJOR Blackled bank has been officially launched in London marking a significant milestone in the economic empowerment of the Black British community. The Pentecostal Community Bank (PCB), rebranded from the Pentecostal Credit Union (PCU), was unveiled at an event at the Royal Society, with key figures from business, faith, and community organisations rallying support for its mission to provide greater access to financial services, financial resilience and economic empowerment for Black Britons. The launch has been hailed as a crucial step toward addressing long-standing barriers Black consumers and businesses have faced in the financial sector. It also marks a new chapter for an institution that has served the Black community for over four decades. Founded by Windrush pioneer Reverend Carmel Jones, the PCU was born out of necessity, as many from the Windrush Generation struggled to secure loans and access financial services from mainstream institutions. What began as a credit union has now evolved into Britain’s first Pentecostal Community Bank — a bank created by a leading Black-led church for the Black community with a mission to build wealth and foster economic empowerment. At the event, keynote speaker Tim Campbell encouraged the Black community to get behind PCB’s vision.

“We have to make sure that this is about supporting the work and legacy of Rev Jones and now supporting Shane and the board in the work they want to do,” Campbell said, publicly pledging his commitment to working with the bank. Claudine Reid MBE, Chair of Lloyds Bank Black Advisory Group, praised the launch as “a monumental step, a monumental moment for the Black community.” This sentiment was echoed by Bishop John Francis, founder of Ruach City Church, below, who credited PCB ( formerly PCU) with helping his church purchase its first building after mainstream banks rejected their loan applications. Today, thanks to PCB’s support, Ruach City Ministries boasts a property portfolio worth £25million. Shane Bowes, CEO of PCB, explained that the transition from the Pentecostal Credit Union to the Pentecostal Community Bank is more than a name change — it reflects the growth and ambition of the organisation over its 44-year history. “This evolution represents a strategic move to better serve our members’ needs in a rapidly changing world,” he said. “We are working on plans to expand our service. One is to provide residential mortgages. Another plan is to provide current accounts to provide members with smoother access to their money.” Many of those present at the launch said the PCB would continue the legacy of Black-led churches in addressing the issue of the community’s financial exclusion and promote the circulation of the Black pound. Elaine Bowes, PCB Head of Marketing and Communications said: “The launch has been an overwhelming success. We plan to encourage people to be part of our push to empower our community ... and ensure we leave a lasting legacy.”

Tell your GP instead. Ask for a simple at-home test. Bleeding from your bottom or blood in your poo could be nothing to worry about, but it’s worth making sure. Bowel cancer is treatable when found early. Registered charity number 1071038 (England and Wales) and SC040914 (Scotland)

14 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

2 Annual Socially Conscious Entrepreneurs Conference nd

n 9th September we staged the 2nd Annual Socially Conscious Entrepreneurs Conference BUSINESS, MONEY & YOU in London with delegates and speakers arriving from all across the UK as well as Montreal, Germany and Colorado. Opening the Conference at 9:30am on a Monday morning singing my rendition of Dennis Brown’s Love and Hate to the pleasant surprise of delegates instantly changed the atmosphere in the room, focusing everyone’s attention as I randomly chose people to sing the chorus line. This was going to be a Conference like no other as we showcased speakers and panelists who were all part of this rising worldwide movement. Our keynote speaker Terry Jervis “A National Treasure” shared one of his early stories of entrepreneurship, that of him going to America and making a documentary about Sam Cook whilst just 15 years of age. The fireside chat with our main sponsor Real Ventures representative Phil Gagnon-Joseph who flew in from Montreal, was particularly insightful as we

learned about this unique venture capital firm and the vision of its co-founder John Stokes to raise 75M to invest in Conscious Entrepreneur Founders across the globe. He and I had joined forces earlier this year when he learnt of the conference and our intention to launch our TALENT Project which would see Conscious Entrepreneurs embark on a 9-month programme resulting in the winner receiving up to £100k of Mentoring, coaching and investment. BUSINESS Speakers included Bolaji Olatoye, Mac Attram along with Michelle Raymond whilst in the afternoon MONEY speakers Lewis Crompton and Sharon Gitau were joined by panelist Tolu Wosu along with Nick Howe from NatWest. After presenting the YOU session, all about MINDSET and personal development, a range of courses from the DADA Success Academy was launched along with a series of zoom Masterclasses that will take place each Monday for several weeks as we do a deeper learning dive with some of the speakers and panelists.

The Socially Conscious Entrepreneur knows that we do not have to choose between Purpose and Profit. To watch the conference replay, masterclasses and to register for early bird tickets for next year’s conference visit: https://www.tonydada.com/scec-replays

A panel of speakers at the conference

TESTIMONIALS “Being around like-minded individuals that were relentlessly positive and wanting to build together. It has given me a renewed sense of hope.”

“The conference has opened my eyes to becoming a more conscious business, where the focus is on helping others rather than being solely concerned with money.”

“It highlighted the need to find my purpose to excel.” Tony Dada 16/9/24

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 15

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

BIRMINGHAM BLACK BUSINESS CONFERENCE 2024:

A Celebration of Black Entrepreneurship October 19, 2024 - Legacy Centre of Excellence, Birmingham

he Birmingham Black Business Conference (BBBC) returned to the Legacy Centre of Excellence on October 19, 2024, for a powerful day of networking, inspiration, and knowledge-sharing. Headlined by Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO Awards, the event featured over 15 speakers discussing topics ranging from global market opportunities to business development and brand-building. King shared her journey of launching the MOBO Awards, offering key insights into creating a globally recognised brand. An all-Black female panel also took centre stage, discussing resilience, confidence, and entrepreneurship, providing inspiration for the next generation of business leaders. Alongside the talks, the Black Business Arena

showcased local businesses, offering products, services, and food stalls. Attendees engaged in lively networking and collaborative exchanges, further strengthening Birmingham’s entrepreneurial community. The Legacy Centre of Excellence continues its mission to empower and uplift the local community through creative, cultural, and entrepreneurial programs. Located in one of Birmingham’s most economically challenged areas, the Centre provides pathways to education, particularly through pioneering I.T., Cybersecurity, and STEM initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and opportunities for underprivileged groups. For more information, visit www.legacycoe.co.uk or follow @thelegacycoe on all social platforms.

16 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News

Opinion

Daniella Maison

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

WE’VE GOT THE POWER TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Kamala Harris is showing everyone what Black women are capable of achieving LIKE A tiny cut in the top of an abscess that allows the pus to drain out, Kamala Harris’ presidential candidacy has uncorked a cascade of misogyny and racism. The primetime Trumpdriven Salem-witch-trial-style onslaught against Harris brought to the fore the intense scrutiny that Black women are held to on our ascension up and through the proverbial cliff and ceiling. According to a report by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Black women are significantly more likely to experience verbal abuse, exclusion from opportunities and physical intimidation than their White peers. In running against Donald Trump, Kamala has faced the greatest barrage of defamation ever directed at a presidential candidate in the USA. DISINFORMATION It’s nothing new for her. In 2020, disinformation researcher Nina Jankowicz led a study on gendered abuse and disinformation against women political candidates, which revealed 336,000 pieces of abuse and disinformation targeting the 13 women candidates. 78 per cent of it was against Harris. Michelle Obama experienced “daily slights” as the first African American First Lady as she battled “questions and speculations, conversations sometimes rooted in the fears and misperceptions of others.” Diane Abbott MP is the most abused female MP online. Claudine Gay had a historic presidency at Harvard University as the first Black person to lead the institution, yet her tumultuous time at the top (roughly six months) marked the shortest presidency in Harvard’s 388-year history before being driven out of her role. Dr. Antoinette “Bonnie” Candia-Bailey died by suicide due to distress from “bullying and

PRESIDENT IN WAITING?: Kamala Harris is proving she is more than capable of winning the race for the White House

MICHELLE OBAMA : ‘Hope is making a comeback’

severe mistreatment” in her role as VP of Student Affairs at Lincoln University Missouri. For centuries, we have been shoehorned into a handful of stereotypes, from the mammy to the angry Black woman. The successful Black woman represents a push-back against each of these carefully poured constructs, even at the implicit level. Our intersections mean that as we arise, we are uprising too. The infrastructure of patriarchy means that our very presence at the board table can be received as a revolutionary act against the White male construct that runs the world. It’s the reason Maya Angelou penned ‘You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies, you may trod me in the very dirt. But still, like dust, I’ll rise’, in the midst of her own soaring ascension. We consistently face an amplified and specific set of intersectional hurdles as we climb. It starts in school. We contend with teachers who fail to see our ability, and look upon us with disdain and suspicion. We receive more punitive punishments. By the time we enter the workplace, we grapple haplessly with imposter syndrome and a phenomenon known as “stereotype threat,” the apprehension of validating negative stereotypes linked to our social identities. A landmark report by the Fawcett Society evidences the harmful, pervasive and

‘Rosa sat, so Ruby could walk, so Kamala could run.’ There are centuries of Black women who paved the way for Kamala Harris entrenched racism that Black and Brown people are forced to endure at every stage of the career journey, with 75 per cent having experienced racism at work. When we put our head above the parapet we are rarely given a fair chance to deliver. We are heavily impacted by bias in the hiring process, we are judged by our names, skin tone, and hairstyle before we even open our mouths.

We are promoted at a significantly lower rate than White women. Harris is in her upswing moment, and the commonalities of her struggle mean that Black women all over the world are standing in solidarity with her on her arduous journey to the pinnacle. We gathered in droves in solidarity with Diane Abbott MP when the Tory’s biggest donor said she ‘should be shot’; we stood up in protest when Child Q was subjected by police to a strip search at her London school. SYMBIOSIS We are impacted, and galvanised, by Kamala Harris’ journey from some 4,000 miles away. Our symbiosis as women means that we are ‘In Sympatico’. ‘Rosa sat, so Ruby could walk, so Kamala could run.’ There are centuries of Black women who paved the way for Kamala Harris. She inherits both their legacy and the painfully prickly resistance to their efforts. She echoes and embodies what it is to elevate as a Black woman

DIVIDED NATION: Donald Trump has fuelled prejudices

in the modern world. She also inspires us. As Michelle Obama recently declared: “The contagious power of hope is making a comeback.” Our individually treacherous climbs up the glass cliff aren’t just about struggle and perseverance. We aren’t imposters climbing to altitudes that aren’t designed for us. The apex suits us just fine. Neither do we have to embody ‘Black excellence’ at every turn. It’s important to remember we

are more than what we attain. Our work productivity is not the sum total of our existence. Triumph lies in how consistently we show up, represent our authentic selves and do what we’re good at, inside and outside of the workplace. Harris’ journey inspires Black women and girls to break free of the constructs that dictate how and where we take up space in the world. It reminds us to straighten our crowns and ascend boldly as multidimensional, unapologetic intersectional women. We don’t need to learn to ‘cope better’ with misogynoir. The problem is gendered racism itself and the urgent need for interventions intended to address intersectional barriers. We simply need to stay the course, with the tenacity and grace we have acquired in adversity. Standing just as we are, we have the power to change the world. For when Black women rise, we all do.

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

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 17

Diabetes matters! Join us… help yourself & your community WHY ARE WE DOING THIS RESEARCH STUDY? • People of black African and black Caribbean heritage are 2-4 times more likely to be living with type 2 diabetes than other ethnicities. • Information and support is an important part of diabetes care. • We will test a new culturally suited information and support programme, called Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyles for Diabetes (HEAL-D).

WHAT DOES THE STUDY INVOLVE?

• Complete the HEAL-D programme or your current local diabetes education programme. • Attend 4 meetings with the research team over 2-years, for measurements such as a blood test and to complete questionnaires. • Receive up to £200 in reimbursement, plus travel expenses.

WHO CAN TAKE PART? You can take part if: You have type 2 diabetes You are of black African or black Caribbean heritage You are aged 18+ Are an English speaker

For more information Visit heal-d.org, scan the QR code below, contact heal-d_study@leicester.ac.uk or call 07825754785 (research team) or 07825756589 (community champion)

0928_HEAL-D Research Study Participation poster_v1.1_09/05/2024 IRAS: 326064 Page 1 of 1

18 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Dotun Adebayo

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

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

WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?

No one can argue that Badenoch is on the verge of making the impossible possible

Photos: Getty

F KEMI BADENOCH wins the Tory leadership race (as it seems very likely at the time of writing), all bets are off. It will be the end of the Black British narrative as we know it, and a moment of realisation when we have to come to terms with a Black history moment that many Black Brits will be extremely uncomfortable with and unimpressed by. Putting it frankly, Kemi Badenoch is not the Black British heroine that will sit comfortably alongside the other giants of Black British political correctness and liberation on your dining room wall. She ain’t that. But who can argue, should she win, that she doesn’t belong there? On that wall, alongside the Mary Seacoles and the Naomi Campbells and the Diane Abbotts. For one thing, she would immediately be catapulted to the very top of the list of great Black women of British history. Who says so? I say so. With no disrespect to nurses, and fashion models, and backbenchers, or even shadow secretaries of state, being the first Black leader of one of the top three political parties in Britain wipes the floor with all of those achievements. For the simple reason that, if she has become the next Tory leader as you read this, you will have to accept that she is only an election away from being the most powerful person in the country. A Black woman. In our lifetime. Remarkable. Once upon a time we would have said, ‘impossible’. And if she were to re-determine possibility and fly in the face of mathematical probability and become the Prime Minister thereafter, well, that would take it to the level of the Obamas, Wouldn’t it? And yet, I can’t see Black Britons dancing in the streets and thanking the Lord for enabling them to see the day they never thought they would see in their lifetimes – should Kemi become Prime Minister. White people, those who are not apoplectic with racist rage, will no doubt celebrate on our behalf. They will hail it as a momentous day, and some may

DILEMMA: If Kemi Badenoch wins the Tory leadership, it could be a divisive and unsettling landmark moment for many Black Britons

even regard it as the epitaph to the ignoble trade and human trafficking of enslavement by interpreting such an achievement as absolving this country and its people of all criminal responsibility for enslavement. If it was Prime Minister Diane Abbott would we not hang out the bunting? Even if we didn’t agree with her views. Wouldn’t we? If it was Prime Minister Naomi Campbell (now there’s a

Like Rosa Parks, Kemi ain’t giving up her seat for nobody. But Kemi isn’t taking a beating for anyone — least of all us. This one woman, born in Britain but raised in Nigeria, has become more Tory than the Tories

thought), we would roll out the barrel and have a barrel of fun. Do you not agree? So why wouldn’t we do the same for Kemi Badenoch? Whether we can stomach her or not. Is it to do with her or more to do with us? Kemi is clearly the antithesis of the great Black women that we have always considered to be ‘on our side’. She is no Rosa Parks, refusing to get up off her seat so that a White person could sit down in racist Montgomery Alabama in 1955. And why should she be? Rosa Parks refused to show her subservience to White people – an act of being ‘on our side’. ROLE MODELS: Kemi Like Rosa Parks, Kemi ain’t Badenoch may not fit the giving up her seat for nobody ( forgive my grammar). But her mould of Black British heroines refusal is not an act of being ‘on like Mary Seacole (pictured) or our side’. Diane Abbott, but if she wins, Neither is Kemi a Fannie Lou she belongs there Hamer, taking a brutal beating for the right to be Black and eligible she will have done the maths and worked out that the most likely to vote. But Kemi isn’t taking a beating constituency of voters to put her for anyone – least of all us. In into Number 10 is not Black. It’s fact, quite the opposite. I know simple maths. This one woman, born in her well enough (she has been a guest at my house) to know that Britain but raised in Nigeria, has

become more Tory than the Tories. She’s on their side. Through and through. And that’s really what we have to deal with. That’s really what sticks in the gullet of many Black people. Many think ‘How can you not be on our side?’ That will be where our prejudices and default positions come from. If you are going to be held up as a Black icon, you have to be on our side. That is the starting point of greatness. You have to be on our side rather than on any other side or on no side at all. So what if she wins? Do we cheer or do we jeer? Or do we hold our noses and our heads in despair and wonder, like Marvin Gaye, what’s going on? What’s going on is that things ain’t what they used to be. In Badenoch’s new Black Britain you are not obliged to be your brother’s keeper. And if you’re looking for a sister to help a brother out, you’re looking for trouble. Kemi ain’t down with that. And if she becomes Prime Minister that ain’t never gonna happen ( forgive me grammar).

On the contrary, if Kemi becomes Prime Minister, brothers are going to have to come correct like Black women have been telling us to do for years. For the Tories, Kemi is manna from heaven. For a party that still echoes with the hints and grunts of malcontents, remnants of its racist past, she is an angel from on high who obliterates the most unpalatable parts of Conservative Party history and gives them a semblance of inclusion. It’s difficult to argue with that. But on the scale of difficulty, it is Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, who will have to deal with her at the dispatch box with, I daresay, a level of difficulty he wasn’t expecting. She’s not easy ‘our Kemi’. Whose side are you on? 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

14 | THE VOICE NOVEMBERT 2024

20 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

A TRIBUTE TO LORD HERMAN OUSELEY: BRITAIN’S TIRELESS CHAMPION FOR RACIAL EQUALITY

Here we take a look back at Lord Ouseley’s stellar career through the pages of The Voice and reflect on decades of unstinting public service to the nation

ORD Herman Ouseley, who passed at the age of 79 last month, leaves behind a legacy that spans decades of tireless work, compassion, and visionary leadership. Known as the former Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) and the founder of the Let’s Kick Racism Out of Football campaign — now Kick It Out — Lord Ouseley transformed the landscape of race relations in the UK. For many, he was more than a public figure; he was a source of strength, a mentor, and a guiding light in the fight against racial injustice. From his early days working in community relations in South London, Lord Ouseley dedicated himself to advocating for Black and Global Majority (BGM) communities. His career began as a clerical officer, but his drive to make a difference soon saw him leading the Greater London Council’s (GLC) ethnic minorities unit under Ken Livingstone in the early 1980s. During a period of immense resistance to racial progress, Lord Ouseley boldly pushed for

policies that would uplift Black communities and confront the blatant racism embedded within public life. He was a true inspiration, championing racial equality with remarkable resilience despite challenging odds. In every role he held, from Lambeth Council to head of CRE and ultimately in the House of Lords, Lord Ouseley sought to build a fairer society by ensuring that Black people received protection from unlawful discrimination and equal opportunities in education, employment, housing, and essential services. He viewed his work as a duty, recognising the urgent need to connect the struggles of neighbourhoods to the levers of government power. The sheer impact of his work is reflected in this tribute from Naina Patel OBE who once worked with him. “As I grasp for adequate words to describe him, leadership, integrity, intellect, wisdom, generosity, formidable communicator, engaged, mentor, “teaser”, human and champion of humanity – antiracist, seeker of truth and justice to his core – all come to mind” she said. “Sometimes words are

“He was selfless, totally committed to our cause (he would tease that he was ageing, too) and never expected any personal rewards for a lifetime of phenomenal public service”

- Naina Patel OBE

inadequate to the task, but at least these help to describe the wonder that was Herman Ouseley. He was selfless, totally committed to our cause (he would tease that he was ageing too) and never expected any personal rewards for a lifetime of phenomenal public service.” The late Lord Ouseley’s work in local government often placed him at the forefront of tackling injustice. When he became a director of the Inner London Education Authority (ILEA) in the late 1980s, he was entrusted with helping to overhaul a system that poorly served London’s most vulnerable communities. In May 1986, The Voice reported on how his appointment had been hailed by senior ILEA figures. Under the headline ‘Herman’s Top of the Class’, the report quotes ILEA leader Francis Morrell who said Lord Ouseley had “absolutely unparalleled experience of delivering equal opportunities in local government. He also has proven and tested management skills”. His tenure marked an era when people began to notice progress on race equality in the inner London boroughs. But more than his

impressive list of titles, what truly set him apart was the personal impact he had on others. Lord Ouseley would go on to become ILEA’s chief executive until the organisation was abolished in 1990. In 1993, he became Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality. Shortly after his appointment he spoke to The Voice about his determination to achieve his vision of leading an organisation that would deliver genuine change for Black Britons and pledged to meet the challenges the organisation faced head-on. FAIRNESS During the interview he acknowledged that one of his biggest tasks was to persuade politicians that racism was an important enough issue to spend taxpayers’ money on. “The heart of the problem is about fairness, justice and equality of treatment for everybody. I have yet to see any senior politician make that connection and it is a connection that responsible people are going to have to make if we are going to live in a decent society which does not turn on itself.” But his passion for change led

to frustration as a September 1997 Voice news report highlights. In a candid speech he renewed calls to increase the CRE’s powers and prevent it from being a “pussy foot organisation with no real bite”. Perhaps one of Lord Ouseley’s most defining contributions was the launch of Let’s Kick Racism Out of Football — later renamed Kick It Out — in the early 1990s, which has been credited with playing a key role in efforts to rid the beautiful game of racism. In the face of fierce resistance from clubs and managers, he spearheaded efforts to address the racial abuse Black players faced on the pitch. By rallying clubs, players, and governing bodies, he built a foundation for tackling racism in Britain’s national sport. His dedication paved the way for today’s players, many of whom openly credit Lord Ouseley with helping them stand tall. In 2018, on the 25th anniversary of the launch of the campaign, he wrote an article for The Voice acknowledging the progress that it had made. However, he was as determined as ever about the need for those who governed the game to

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 21

News Feature MUCH MISSED: Lord Herman Ouseley

How The Voice covered Lord Ouseley down the years 1986: How The Voice reported Lord Herman Ouseley’s appointment as a Director of the now defunct Inner London Education Authority

1993: Herman Ouseley is interviewed by The Voice after being appointed head of the Commission for Racial Equality

1997: Herman Ouseley was knighted in the New Year Honours List prioritise equality. “When tackling institutional inertia, it is critical to challenge timid irresponsible leadership on issues such as equality and exclusion,” he wrote. “If the powerful decision-makers in the game really want to end exclusion and inequality in the game, they can. That is a simple reality and explains why progress has been so tediously slow. Football should be leading and can be proud of the extensive investment in community programmes. INFILTRATE “This is especially beneficial as wider society sees continuing bias, prejudice and hate-related activity like the government promoting a ‘hostile environment’ for migrants and extreme racist fringe groups seeking to infiltrate football.” His influence extended beyond football and deep into communities where he was revered for his authenticity and empathy. For example, his long-standing connection to Brixton, where his activism began, and where he was praised for the work he did with Lambeth Council left an indelible mark. Lord Ouseley’s ability to connect with people on a personal level, despite his formidable

responsibilities leading Lambeth Council, endeared him to countless individuals in the borough. The tributes that have poured in describe him as not just a leader but a compassionate friend. As one tribute reads: “He made huge contributions to public life and continued to inspire and influence me and thousands of others for decades.” That influence was felt in a wide range of areas. In the early 2000s, Lord Ouseley’s Bradford report exposed how segregated schooling and community divides fueled mistrust, underscoring his commitment to unity across UK society – a vision extending beyond Black communities. He was also concerned about how the experience of racism impacted Black Britons detained under the country’s Mental Health Act after highlighting a grave deficiency in data. In August 2012, The Voice reported on his questioning of then-health secretary Lord Earl Howe about the issue. “What data on ethnicity are available regarding detention rates, consent to treatment, control and restraint, and Community

Treatment Orders under the Mental Health Act 2007? And, if they are not available, whether the Care Quality Commission will be required to provide such data in respect of the past five years in their annual monitoring of the Mental Health Act?” he asked. Lord Herman Ouseley was a champion of community upliftment, supporting disadvantaged youth in London. Knighted in 1997 and later a peer, he advocated for policing, education, and racial justice in the House of Lords. A “hero” and “mentor” to many, his passing leaves an irreplaceable void in British public life. Another tribute paid to him aptly captures this sentiment: “With the passing of Lord Ouseley’s generation of African-Caribbean campaigners, it feels as if we have fewer national champions of his calibre today.” Lord Ouseley’s legacy reflects his unwavering resolve, compassion, and strength. In a divided world, he exemplified courage and commitment. His refusal to “walk away” from inequality when he saw it will surely continue to inspire generations to come.

16 T H E V O I C E AUGUST 16 - 22, 2012

AROUND BLACK BRITAIN

@thevoicenews

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www.voice-online.co.uk

LORD OUSELEY RAISES CONCERNS OVER MINORITIES IN MENTAL HEALTH SYSTEM Peer questions lack of data on black Britons facing forced detention

RITAIN’S LEADING Commission (CQC) is the race equality cam- health watchdog responsible paigner Lord Herman for publishing annual data on Ouseley is demand- how the Mental Health Act is ing answers on the number of used. Campaign groups such as blacks detained under the country’s Mental Health Act Black Mental Health UK (BME after highlighting a grave UK) claim that members of the UK’s black communities experideficiency in data. Lord Ouseley demand for ence the highest rates of forced information comes amid con- detention. There is concern that if a cerns amongst campaigners that this issue is likely to be detailed breakdown on how forgotten when mental health ethnic minorities are affected services are restructured next by the use of the Act is not MACATTRAM: Changes needed to tackle inequalities faced by available, the new Clinical year. black mental health service users He recently raised questions Commissioning Groups (CCCG), will oversee mental which publicathe in Parliament over are 44 per cent more likely to Coroners court has again hightion of ethnicity data on those health care from 2013, will be sectioned, 50 per cent more lighted many of the issues surdetained under the Act in the have very little information on likely to be placed in seclusion, rounding the way in which the needs facing these commupast 12 months. 29 per cent more likely to be people from the UK’s African The former chair of the now nities and how best to tailor forcibly restrained and make Caribbean communities in LORD OUSELEY: Demanding answers defunct Commission for Racial services to meet those needs. up 30 per cent of inpatients on need of mental health care are Health dealt with by statutory services asked Equality, medium secure wards. CHANGES lished annually from 2005 to which showed failings by and the police.” Secretary Lord Earl Howe: health services to meet The change in how mental 2010, by the Healthcare mental She added: “Sadly, like “What data on ethnicity are and by the Care the needs of black patients. Commission comINEQUALITIES be will services health detention David Bennett before him Sean regarding available The Count Me In Census Commission in 2009 rates, consent to treatment, missioned also come at a time Quality Matilda Macattram, director Rigg’s experience highlights reports were part of a five year informaincluded 2010, and given been has NHS the when control and restraint, and Mental Health UK many of the failings that far on detention rates, con- government strategy called of Black Community Treatment Orders the task of saving £20 billion tion (DRE). welcomed Lord Ouseley raising too many from this community Equality Race Delivering and restraint treatment, to sent years The publication of under the Mental Health Act over the next four DRE was launched in 2005 the issue in Parliament and face. Quality, Community Treatment Orders, the that renewed detailed data on who is where 2007? And, if they are not through clear was it said an of death the to response in down by ethnicity.” the system is vital so that available, whether the Care Innovation, Productivity and broken African Caribbean patient, efforts were needed to address in who will be Quality Commission will be Prevention programme (QIPP). FAILINGS David Bennett who was systemic inequalities faced by commissioners buying services In his response to Lord responsible for required to provide such data black patients. Data published in the final restrained by five nurses. in respect of the past five years Ouseley’s question, Lord Howe She said: “The Sean Rigg in the future can ensure that Using data from the DRE's Me In Census report is currently resources are allocated for this in their annual monitoring of made reference to the Count Count the findings of Count Me In Census, BMH UK inquest which reinforced 2010 stating: reports, Census In Me Act?” group.” Southwark the Mental Health at claim that African Caribbeans underway Quality “The Count Me In Census pub- the previous year’s reports, Care The

Sheffield council leader slams vandals who wreck tribute to Olympic champ

LEADER OF Sheffield City Council Julie Dore slammed vandals who attacked a gold postbox dedicated to Olympic heptathlete champion Jessica

Ennis. Ennis native Sheffield received the honour after her gold medal success in London. was graffiti However,

scrawled on the postbox in Barkers Pool in the city centre. Dore said: “We are all so proud of Jess and her fantastic success, which is not only a

great achievement for her and her team but also is a huge achievement for the city. This is our moment to shine so what a shame it is that some-

WE WANT YOUR NEWS We have launched a new community news section called Around Black Britain that places you the readers at the heart of the paper. We want to hear your news and views about what is happening in your neighbourhood.

Do you know of a local business success story? Or an individual who has achieved against the odds? Or a campaign you want to tell us about?

one has chosen to tarnish this by vandalising a postbox painted gold in honour of our local hero. I hope they feel thoroughly ashamed of themselves." A spokesperson for Sheffield City Council said a new layer of gold has been applied by a Royal Mail employee. One local resident who saw the graffiti said: “It's disgust-

ing. It's a shame. I have a lot of respect for Jessica Ennis and what she's done for Sheffield." A Royal Mail spokesman said it was “extremely disappointed" about the vandalism. “We have teams around the UK which look after and maintain our 115,000 post boxes and we have already repaired the damage to this box," he added.

Then please get in touch And if you have photographs and video clips, we would love to see them. Contact the Community News Editor Vic Motune by email: vic.motune@gvmedia.co.uk or call 020 7510 0340

2012: A Voice article reflects Lord Ouseley’s commitment to tackling disparities in mental health care faced by Black Britons MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2018 THE VOICE | 11

@thevoicenews

2018: In this article that he wrote for The Voice, Lord Ouseley reflects on Kick It Out’s progress in tackling racism in football

NEWS

www.voice-online.co.uk

FIGHTING TO KICK OUT RACISM

Founder of Kick It Out, Lord Herman Ouseley, reflects on 25 years of pushing for equality

T WAS August 1993 – During next season it is Manchester United had planned that everyone in footbecome the first Premier ball should reflect on what it League champions and the has done in the previous quarnew season was about to ter of a century, what it is dobegin. ing now and what it still has Away from the TV cameras to do. and the crowds, the campaign Kick It Out has been at the to “Let’s Kick Racism Out of heart of this change, challengFootball” was launched. ing all forms of discrimination It was needed then and it is and exclusion, encouraging still needed now. Yes, in 2018. progress and opening up opTwenty-five years ago, portunities for people from black and Asian players faced all backgrounds especially in discrimination, prejudice and areas that have been closed to abuse not only from fans, them in the past – like boardbut within their own dressing rooms, coaching, administrarooms, and on the training tion and management. grounds. While Kick It Out has been a These players had no choice catalyst for change it can’t do in the matter – they were it all on its own. forced to accept the status quo if they wanted to stay in the game and have successful careers. That was the reality at all levels of the game. BURIED

VANDALS: Postbox dedicated to gold medal winner Jessica Ennis was attacked

voicenews

And as for the football authorities – they, along with the clubs who made up their membership, buried their heads in the sand and hoped that the problem would go away. Twenty-five years on, there is ethnic diversity reflected on the fields of play, more women are playing the game, more than 40 LGBT supporters’ groups have been set up, disabled people are getting better opportunities to be part of football and there is a recognition that the pursuit of equality, inclusion and cohesion is beneficial not just to the sport of football but to wider society. Black and Asian professional players experience less abuse now than they did but it still goes on at grassroots level. There is a greater confidence to report incidents and to challenge unacceptable behaviour. But there is less to applaud when it comes to equality of access to opportunities in other spheres of the game.

“The FA must lead for the whole of football”

Without the support of David Dein at the beginning of the Premier League and David Davies at the FA in 1993, the campaign may have floundered into early oblivion, such was the reluctance of those with power to face up to the challenge of dealing with racism, sexism and homophobia in football. Other significant contributors from day one included key former players such as Paul Elliott and Garth Crooks, veterans in the struggle for equality in the sporting arena. Twenty-five years of campaigning for equality in football has highlighted the role of leadership and their decisionmaking in the game. When tackling institutional inertia, it is critical to challenge timid irresponsible leadership on issues such as equality and exclusion. EXCLUSION

If the powerful decisionmakers in the game really want to end exclusion and inequality in the game, they can. That is a simple reality and explains why progress has been so tediously slow. We should take time to acFootball should be leadknowledge the work of others ing and can be proud of the who have helped along the extensive investment in comway. There were many pro- munity programmes to ingressive fans who campaigned crease the participation of courageously for change to young people from all backtackle racism in football long grounds to play the game before Kick It Out appeared on and interact with each other the scene. Above all, the play- through education and learners, without whom there would ing, with evident residual benbe no game. efits for social and community Without Kick It Out, there cohesion. might not have been the proThis is especially beneficial gress made. Without enter- as wider society sees continuprising influential individuals ing bias, prejudice and hatethere would have been no Kick related activity like the govIt Out. ernment promoting a “hostile In particular at the begin- environment” for migrants, ning, Gordon Taylor and the an upsurge in anti-semitism, Professional Footballers’ As- extreme racist fringe groups sociation (PFA) have stood seeking to infiltrate football shoulder to shoulder with Kick again and uncontrolled filth It Out. and abuse on social media platforms. The way forward is for football to be at the forefront of the pursuit of equality, inclusion and cohesion in a coherent and coordinated way across the entirety of the game. The FA must lead for the whole of football and the other leaders among the Premier League, the English Football League, the PFA, the League Managers Association and the Football Supporters’ Federation must be united in collective action in pursuit of football’s equality goals and MAJOR CONTRIBUTIONS: Paul Elliott and Garth Crooks (right) inclusion outcomes.

FORCE FOR CHANGE: Lord Herman Ouseley has worked tirelessly

on the Kick It Out campaign

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22 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

News Feature

WHY WE MUST NEVER FORGET THE LEGACY OFJAMAICA’S NATIONAL HERO

INFLUENCE : Marcus Gar vey, circa 1924

This November marks 60 years since the reinterment of Jamaica’s first National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Here, Selena Carty takes a look at his continuing impact

HIS November marks 60 years since Jamaica appointed its first national hero, The Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey II, with the return of his body to home soil after spending 24 years in St Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery — Lower Catacombs, in London. The richness of Jamaica’s history, culture and identity still impacts the entire world with its global infusion from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas & Oceania. The Caribbean nation’s rich vibrancy in the modern world is found in wars and rebellions, food & drinks, style, language, music, sports personnel and great contributors to literature, the arts and politics. Thus, it was paramount for Jamaica to reintern Garvey’s body to the land of his birth, where his legacy has a beginning, middle and no end due to the longlasting impact, inspiration and empowering vibrations which continue to enrich and edify all who encounter it. Garvey’s wide-ranging influence is seen in the Black Star on Ghana’s national flag, the candles representing the Pan African colours of red, black & green used to celebrate Kwanzaa (December 26 to January 1), and Bob Marley’s famous Redemption Song in which he sings ‘Emancipate yourself from mental slavery none but ourselves can free our minds’. Garvey’s legacy is also seen in Chief Ladipo Solanke’s formation of the West African Student Union (WASU) in London, in the thinking of Prince of Dahomey (now Benin), Kojo Tovalou Houénou and several other self-determining leaders and groups that can be found in each continent. Looking at Garvey’s life can

(photo: George Grantham Bain Collection, via Wikimedia Commons)

FINAL JOURNEY: Marcus Garvey’s casket leaving Holy Trinity Cathedral, Kingston, 1964 (photo courtesy of Dr. Julius W. Garvey);

right, Selena Carty beside Marcus Garvey’s enshrinement, National Heroes Park, Kingston make us see how one man can make such a monumental impact and how the ripple effects of his work can be of such high value, even without obvious recognition. The Akan adinkra symbol ‘Sankofa’ (in the form of a bird and a stylised heart) means ‘Go back and take’. It is a symbol of positive reversion and revival, teaching the wisdom in learning from the past, which helps in building the future and encourages people to cherish and value their culture and avoid its adulteration. Sankofa’s meaning is unquestionably connected to Garvey and the legacy his life’s

purpose, thoughts, actions and work have made to our lives today. As someone who leads conversations around cultural and ancestral legacies connected to wars, rebellions and revolutions, I believe it is really important to align our thinking when it comes to discussing the depths of the legacy left by Garvey. This allows us to assign value to all the individuals who became connected to him and his work. These include his rivals, supporters, family, wives, sons, colleagues, friends, historians, genealogists, scholars, Garveyites, Pan-Africanists and communities

Seven key stages AMY ‘Jacques’ Garvey shares in the book Garvey & Garveyism (1970) Marcus Garvey’s seven important stages to his thinking and actions: 1. Awakening and uniting Negroes the world over. 2. Changing the thinking of the aroused to a realisation of manhood’s potential abilities. 3. Channelling the newly released emotional energies and resentment into constructive individual and racial interests. 4. Mass sacrificial work and struggle to reach embryonic nationhood-the interim stage.

and nations all over the world. Amy ‘Jacques’ Garvey complied and edited The Philosophy & Opinions of Marcus Garvey or Africa for the Africans which was published in 1923. Her decision gave later generations the opportunity to study her husband through his own voice enabling us to form our own opinions of him and the resilient ambition he had to build for so many. Where would our ideologies be around self-identity, self-empowerment and self-pride for our ancestral lineage worldwide be if not for the Garveys’ choices and all whom they inspired? Sixty

5. Through legislation and otherwise, to stress mass education along scientific and industrial lines, also character building, which are the sinews of any nation in peace or war. 6. The preparation of nationalists for the grave responsibilities of leading and directing young nations, whose people have been denied the privileges and advantages of early preparation. 7. The final efforts to unite and keep together the young nations, not only to protect themselves, but to lead those still suffering under colonial and protectorate rule.

years ago, Jamaica announced Garvey as the nation’s first national hero, firmly cementing his legacy for the world to continue to revisit his name, work, philosophies and opinions. With only 52 years on the planet, his endurance of the monumental psychological, spiritual and physical investment needed to fulfil his purpose makes marking this anniversary one of great importance. It is this inspiration that led his son, Dr. Julius W. Garvey, now 90, to explore further how to enrich us all about his mother and father, leading him to have conversations with me and global genealogist and family historian Latoya Williams, which led to uncovering his father’s death certificate for the very first time. In September 2023 we shared with him the certified registered cause of his father’s death. Marcus Garvey said ‘Look for me in the Whirlwind or the Storm…’ so Latoya and I weathered Hurricane Beryl earlier this year to complete the full documented cycle of our national hero. Copies of his certified death certificates were donated to Liberty Hall: The Legacy of Marcus Garvey and The National Library of Jamaica and later this year they will be given to the Black Cultural Archives (BCA),

in Brixton, London. From 1914, Garvey faced immense pressures over the next 36 years including shifting environments, economic challenges, global conferences, an assassination attempt, imprisonment, legal battles, public criticism, and the weight of leading a movement while raising his own sons. These burdens took a toll on his health, leading to his untimely death from cardiac failure caused by hypertension on June 10, 1940. On November 15, 1964 Marcus Mosiah Garvey’s body was laid to rest within a permanent memorial site inside of King George VI Memorial Park, now National Heroes Circle, and today Pan Africanists around the world continue to proudly wear and display the colours of red, black and green whilst working towards the ideology of Africa for the Africans. In his final year, his health had been compromised by the level at which his mind and spirit engaged with his purpose. Garvey’s life was for his people. Without Garvey’s love for humanity, his vision and resilience, the understanding of our ancestral lineage may have been forever fractured in an ever-evolving world amid homogenising cultures. Accompanied with the love, commitment, vision, persistence and years of investment made by Amy ‘Jacques’ Garvey, we have so much to be thankful for when we remember those who have been written into history. It is our duty to continue to document ourselves and each other today for our legacies to enrich us all for the foreseeable future. n Selena Carty is a corporate, academic and community consultant, with almost two decades of experience as a speaker, writer, curator, researcher and genealogist

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 23

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24 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Midlands News WELCOME: New Nottinghamshire PCC Gary Godden, centre, with, left to right, ex-councillor Merlita Bryan, ACNA’s Enid Lee-Brown, Derby City councillor, Professor Cecile Wright, East Midlands Mayor Clare Ward, host and chair of Operation Black Vote, David Weaver, and Broxtowe’s new MP, Juliet Campbell

GARY VOWS TO BE A FORCE FOR GOOD Event held to celebrate new Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden’s appointment

N impressive array of activists, church leaders and elected officials gathered at Nottingham’s Marcus Garvey Day Centre (MGDC) to welcome and celebrate the county’s new Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Gary Godden, who was elected in May. The event, co-organised by a team led by MGDC’s Tyron Browne and Enid Lee-Brown, Secretary of the African Caribbean National Artistic Centre (ACNA), saw Godden return to meet some of those who helped him break new ground and become the East Midlands’ first Black postholder. Godden has a storied history: he was raised in residential care before being adopted aged seven. For 15 of the 25 years he has lived locally. He was a serving police officer before

leaving in 2015 to become Derbyshire’s PCC. He said: “I’ve been on a journey, doing this for 10 years now, not just in Nottingham,” referencing that unsuccessful campaign, also those for parliamentary seats in the European Parliament and as MP for the Charnwood constituency in Leicestershire. CHALLENGES Speaking of his first campaign, he added: “I knew I wouldn’t win but I wanted to test myself against experienced politicians. I learned so much about myself, how to respond to challenges and where I wanted to be.” Citing inspiration he received from childhood hero Muhammad Ali and Barack Obama’s successful presidential campaign of 2008, Godden told the attentive crowd of close to 400 who had earlier applauded

him and his family into the hall: “You can’t be what you can’t see. I looked at Obama and thought, ‘if he can do it, I can do it,’ and here I am today standing in front of you as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire. “We are all standing on the shoulders of our elders. There are two people in the room tonight whose shoulders I feel I stand on – Merlita Bryan and Eunice Campbell-Clark. They were trailblazers, among the first Black politicians in the city. That is something to be valued, proud of, and to shout out about. They did it when there were less ethnic minorities in politics. They trod that path so I could stand here today and I thank them for that. “There’s often more to the journey than the destination – it’s been about learning. The journey has been long and hard. Sometimes I had no money. Sacrifices were made, not just by me but my family too. All of the meetings, the hustings, the frustrations but in the end, it comes down to family,” going on to acknowledge the support received from wife

The journey has been long and hard. Sometimes I had no money. Sacrifices were made, not just by me but my family too

Adana and daughter Morgan in attendance, also that of extended family and friends. Stressing the impartiality of his role, Godden stated: “I am not the police. The PCC is a separate entity but we work in partnership. I have to make sure we have an efficient and effective police force for Nottinghamshire, so I hold the Chief Constable to account. So you, the community (need) to tell me what your agenda is and I set the policing plan, which I hand to the Chief Constable

who delivers the operational resources for that plan and make sure the community’s voice is seen, heard and felt through the plan.” His comment that also “has the power to change the Chief Constable, if that be the case,” also drew notable applause. “When I first met Gary, I knew straightaway that he was dedicated to be the best he can be,” said another new appointee, Broxtowe’s Labour MP Juliet Campbell.

DEDICATED “Gary was dedicated to the police force well before he got elected. He’s at the beginning of the next stage. This is not just about congratulations but also about the community working together. He can’t do this by himself, he needs your help and support. We all know the challenges we have in our community and the changes needed, not just in Nottingham but Nottinghamshire.” The stellar list of attendees on the night alongside Campbell included Milton Crosdale OBE, Notts Deputy PCC Angela Kandola, Pilgrim Church’s Rev

Clive Foster, Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire Veronica Pickering, East Midlands Mayor Clare Ward, several local councillors with David Weaver, Chair of Operation Black Vote, serving as event host. His esteemed father, Canon Christian Weaver, opened the proceedings in prayer. Co-organiser Enid Lee-Brown said: “The event achieved what we set out to do – to recognise Gary (making history). We got the numbers to attend, people from a wide variety of organisations to support and make him feel welcome. This is just the beginning though: we will continue to dialogue with him, and the Mayor, to let them know the African-Caribbean community is here and will be calling on them. “This role is a tall order: the police and the Black community don’t really hit it off. We’ve lost so many experienced officers and some of the newer ones don’t know how to speak to people. Some of our older people don’t want to go out anymore, like during COVID which did a lot of damage. We don’t want to go back to those days.”

NOVEMBER 2024 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 or LinkedIn

By Veron Graham

NEW PLAQUE HONOURS BRUMMIE POET ZEPHANIAH Tribute celebrating the life of late activist unveiled at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery A BLUE Plaque created in tribute to the late poet and activist Benjamin Zephaniah was unveiled in Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery’s Round Room, just metres from where it will soon take permanent residence. Close to a hundred people – fellow artists and activists, relatives, associates and city officials – attended including the Birmingham-born Zephaniah’s widow Qian, who in a touching address read his composition People Need People, both in his

IMPACT: The plaque provides ‘hope’ for the next generation

honour and also to convey her feelings. She went on to thank everyone for coming, including famed poet and friend Lemn Sissay for finding time to attend, and the Museum for hosting the plaque and the event. Sissay’s address included plans for ‘A Benjamin Zephaniah Day,’ scheduled for April 12 next year, in which the country will be encouraged to celebrate his life by taking part in activities “to celebrate what he stood for, be it vegan food, events to celebrate peace or poetry, planting trees and painting. Benjamin touched many people’s lives and he’s always been like an older brother, seeing how his career grew, from local events in the late 1980s and onto the world stage. He made me feel ‘if he could do that, I could too.’ I feel he’d want me to say that peace will win over what we are seeing in the world today. If he was here, he would be out marching and supporting the cry for justice.” The event featured speeches, lyrical and musical performances from an array

FRIEND: Lemn Sissay with Zephaniah’s widow Qian of friends and associates including representatives from event sponsors The National Trust and Black Writers’ Guild reflecting on Zephaniah’s life, work, impact and legacy. It was hosted by Dr Jak Beula, Chief Executive of Nubian Jak Community Trust, and marked the second Blue Plaque the organisation has created to acknowledge city pioneers alongside activist and minister Bishop Desmond Jaddoo MBE, following that created for the late Birmingham councillor Bert Carless.

TOUCHING ADDRESS: Zephaniah’s widow Qian read one of his compositions at the event In his closing address, Jaddoo said: “The story of Benjamin Zephaniah is of someone going from rags to spiritual riches. “He had a God-given ability which he used to lift himself up to become world-renowned and a proud Brummie who never forgot where he came from. “The plaque is important because it provides hope for the next generation. In this Museum, people will learn

The plaque is also a reminder that it’s time to not subject ourselves to the stereotypes and to take responsibility for honouring our heroes

about him and how he overcame the negative stereotypes imposed on him. The plaque is also a reminder that it’s time to not subject ourselves to the stereotypes and to take responsibility for honouring our heroes. Thank you, Benjamin. We miss you. We love you.” Next month will see 65 trees planted in Zephaniah’s honour in nearby Burberry Park in the Newtown area of the city where he grew up.

From graphic design to horse grooming – Miyah following her dreams thanks to training course

A BIRMINGHAM woman is saddling up to pursue her dream of working with horses after graduating from a series of courses in equine care which have “changed her life”. Miyah Mason, 38, is now taking her Level 3 in Horse Care training at the National Stud after completing Levels 1 and 2 with industry leaders RMF Training. She said: “I only admired horses from afar, never thinking I would make a career out of it. When people think of horses they think of riding more than the handling. Through this training, I have been given opportunities to travel around the country and meet interesting people. I used to be self-employed, working in graphic design and business management but was then unemployed for a year and a half. When I came across this training I thought what have I got to lose – it has changed my life.” The industry-led training package is funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and provides an extensive equestrian knowledge and practical skills, including horse

TAKING UP THE REINS: Miyah Mason with fellow graduate Isabelle Padilla, RMF trainer Dominic Elsworth, Dec the horse, Lewis Foggo (learner) and Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands

management and handling, equine health, and stable design. It provides specialist support to help residents who are experiencing challenges in securing

employment, including ex-offenders, veterans, the homeless to find work in the industry. The innovative equine training course trained more than 130

learners last year. Co-designed by RMF Training alongside a consortium of employers, it helps address significant labour shortages within the equine

industry. Isabelle Padilla, 32, another Birmingham-based course graduate, said: “Doing this training helped me to get a job at a stable and they are helping me to get further trained.” Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, and chair of the WMCA, said: “My goal as mayor is to make the West Midlands a region that gives people the best possible start in working life, a place where they can get good quality jobs, progress their careers and thrive. “Hearing how Isabelle has been able to develop a career in a sector she has a passion for is truly inspiring and also how Miyah’s life has been changed for the better by this training, enabling her to get a job and progress and reach her goal. “The WMCA invests £170m each year on training courses, bootcamps and apprenticeships, teaching people the skills needed to work in all sorts of industries. I would encourage anyone who is struggling to find work, wants to change their career or land a better paid job to join one of our courses and fulfil their potential.”

26 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Alford Gardner 1926-2024 Alford shared memories of his 1948 HMT Windrush journey with children at a June 2019 Jamaica Society Leeds event (photo: David Lindsay)

‘HE LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK IN ALL OUR LIVES’ The Voice pays tribute to the remarkable Alford Gardner, a stalwart of the Black British community who passed away at 98

Alford Gardner during a reception to mark the 75th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush at Buckingham Palace on June 14, 2023. During the reception to celebrate the Windrush Generation, ten portraits of Windrush elders were unveiled

HE outpouring of tributes that greeted the news that Alford Gardner, one of the last surviving passengers of the Empire Windrush and a stalwart of the Black British community, had sadly passed away at 98 should surprise no one. He had a profound impact on the Black community in Leeds and across the UK, someone who was hailed by countless individuals as a mentor, friend and source of inspiration. The heartfelt tributes to him reflect the deep respect and admiration he commanded and the positive role he played in so many people’s lives. Alford’s journey to the UK aboard the Empire Windrush in 1948 laid the foundation for a lifetime of community-building and cultural contribution that enriched not only his adopted home of Leeds but also the wider British-Caribbean community. A former RAF serviceman during the Second World War, he arrived in a Britain unprepared for the influx of Caribbean immigrants.

Despite the challenges of finding work and battling prejudice, Alford made Leeds his home, becoming an anchor in the city’s emerging Black community. He was instrumental in establishing spaces for West Indian migrants to meet, socialise, and build a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar land. One of his most notable contributions was co-founding the pioneering Leeds Caribbean Cricket Club, which became a focal point for the city’s West Indian community in the 1950s and 60s. Alford, with his love of sport and dedication to uniting people, saw the importance of building something for the community, recreating a piece of home and breaking down racial barriers. The magnitude of his contribution and efforts to help others was recognised by the Jamaica Society Leeds, an organisation with deep roots in the community. “He gave his time so generously,” the society said in a statement. “He truly made a difference.”

Alford Gardner, right, with friend Dennis Reed circa 1945 (photo: Alford Gardner’s collection)

The Windrush legend is applauded during an event for the Out Of Many Festival, to mark 60 years of Jamaican independence (photo: David Lindsay)

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 27

News Feature LEFT: Alford proudly receives his prestigious Leeds Award in February 2024 (photo: Leeds City Council)

BELOW: The Windrush legend was a specially invited guest at the visit by King Charles to Leeds in 2022 (photo: David Lindsay)

Mr Gardner’s contribution to Leeds is immeasurable. It laid the foundation for the city’s Black-led organisations today, including Jamaica Society Leeds. It is a part of his legacy for which we cannot thank him enough. We are honoured to have known Alford Gardner and proud to have been his friend. Mr Gardner’s support for Jamaica Society Leeds has been a blessing, particularly his contributions to projects over the years which showcase the heritage and history of Jamaican and wider Caribbean communities.” It’s a view shared by Josclyn Morris, a close friend of Alford’s. The two met after he arrived in Leeds from Jamaica in 1954 and Alford ‘showed him the ropes’, helping him to settle into life in the city. “I met ‘Ford’ the day after I arrived in Leeds in 1954,” he recalls. “We have been friends ever since — 70 years. He took me under his wing. He showed me where the tax office was, where to look for a job, things like that. Without him and the other [West Indian] RAF men it would have been a harder struggle. Some of us wouldn’t have made it. After I came back home I looked forward to Ford visiting me on his trips to Jamaica. We would catch up on news and talk about the old days. This is a big loss.” Alford’s dedication to service was rooted in his family values. As a father of nine, he instilled the same work ethic, determination, and sense of pride in his children that he exhibited throughout his life. His commitment to his family and community went hand in hand, with each generation benefiting from the foundations he laid down.

Alford with friend Yvonne English during King Charles’s 2022 visit to Leeds

(photo: David Lindsay)

Alford with relatives of fellow Caribbean Second World War veterans at the Jamaica Society Leeds For King, Country & Home exhibition launch, April 2023 (photo: Paolina V Photography)

Caribbean Alford, front row, right, with Leeds 1950s early the in Cricket Club members (photo: Alford Gardner’s collection)

Yvonne English, co founder of Jamaica Society Leeds whose late husband Glen English MBE was one of the Jamaican war veterans who helped found Leeds Caribbean Cricket Club in 1948 with Alford,

recalls: “Alford Gardner was very special. Our friendship goes back a long time. Alford was always a happy and jovial person with a twinkle in his eyes and a cheeky, infectious smile.

“The Black community has lost a teacher, however we have some fun and long-lasting memories of this legend. Alford brought joy, shared laughter and left an indelible mark in our lives and hearts. Your spirit will always be with us, our memories we hold close to our hearts. We may have lost you in presence, but your love and wisdom continue to guide us. Rest In Peace my friend.” Alford’s life was one of significance, both in the immediate community he helped to shape in Leeds and the broader story of Black British history. His efforts in those early years — establishing institutions and promoting sport as a way of fostering a sense of belonging — will never be forgotten. Alford’s story stands as a

testament to the courage and perseverance of the Windrush generation, whose contributions have been fundamental in shaping modern Britain. As Leeds and the wider community mourn the loss of a pioneer, his legacy will continue to live on in the organisations he helped build and support, the lives he touched, and the future he helped secure for young people in the city. Susan Pitter, a cultural heritage producer who worked closely with him on community heritage projects, says that while there is sadness at his passing, many people will feel pride at what he accomplished in his life. “My admiration for Alford Gardner is endless,” she says. “He is among that sadly dwindling generation of Caribbean men and

women who paved the way for those who came after them, including my own parents. “Last June, I was at Buckingham Palace for the unveilings of the Windrush 75 portraits commissioned by the King, including Alford‘s. I got to witness celebrities and household names clamouring to meet him. “Alford was unfazed but, in a quiet moment he turned to me and said, with tears in his eyes, ‘Who would have thought a little boy running up and down the countryside in Jamaica with no shoes on would be sitting in big Buckingham Palace? I wonder what the old man would have said.’ I answered that his father would be proud. That we were all proud of him. I’ve never seen his famous smile bigger than on that day.”

28 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Lyndon Mukasa

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Eye on the Diaspora

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SUDAN IS EPICENTRE OF HUMANITARIAN CRISES

NEW BEGINNINGS: Niger’s General Abdourahamane Tiani, left, reviews a guard of honour next to his Burkinabe counterpart Captain Ibrahim Traore, right, upon his arrival in Niamey in July this year for the AES’ first summit

WHAT LIES IN STORE WITH WEST AFRICA ALLIANCE?

SOLIDARITY: Demonstrators in London take part in a protest march to draw attention to the civil war in Sudan

f I were to ask you where the worst humanitarian disaster in the world is taking place, before reading this article, what would come to mind immediately? Gaza? Lebanon? Yemen? Ukraine? While Israel’s Western-backed genocide of the Palestinians and war in Lebanon is truly horrific and Russia’s war in Ukraine threatens peace in Europe, the Republic of Sudan is at the epicentre of the worst humanitarian catastrophe in the world. Since April 2023, a brutal civil war has imploded leading international observers to sound the alarm for genocide with more than 8.6 million people forced from their homes while some two million people have fled the country to neighbouring Chad, Egypt and South Sudan. This has led to the largest displaced population in the world totalling up to 25 million people. More than 18 million people face severe hunger, 755,000 people are trapped in famine conditions while there has been widespread sexual violence against women.

The civil war’s origins

The war in Sudan is a civil war that in simple terms can be reduced to a conflict between two generals and their armies who have sacrificed the people of their country to have complete control over Sudan. They are the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) which is led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan going against the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Muhammed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti). The roots of the conflict goes back to the 2019 coup which ended the 30-year presidency of Omar al-Bashir in what was Sudan’s democratic revolution. This revolution didn’t last as Abdalla Hamdok who followed Bashir was also

IMPACT: Internally displaced Sudanese citizens take shelter at a school

forced to resign due to mass protests in January 2022 after he attempted a power-sharing deal with the military. In the February 2022 edition of The Voice newspaper, I covered the origin of the protests in more detail which was a mass movement by Sudanese people to establish a more democratic civilian government.

Power struggles

After his resignation, Abdalla Hamdok made a controversial deal with General al-Burhan to form a militaryled government, sparking violent crackdowns on civilians. al-Burhan’s deputy, Hemedti, led the RSF, originally created to protect Omar al-Bashir and implicated in human rights violations during the Darfur genocide. Al-Burhan and Hemedti crushed civil society, but their alliance faltered when al-Burhan sought to merge the RSF into the SAF. This led to conflict on April 15, 2023, when the RSF attacked SAF bases, Khartoum, and its airport.

Gold, corruption and foreign vultures

Before Sudan’s civil war, Hemedti and the RSF gained control of valuable gold mines in Darfur. Hemedti’s gold

company sold 99% of its output to the UAE, which profited by selling the gold to the US and Saudi Arabia. The UAE, having a stake in Sudanese gold, supports and funds the RSF. Russia’s Wagner Group also backed the RSF in exchange for gold to stabilize its currency amid sanctions. In January 2024, Iran supplied the SAF with drones and weapons. Russia later switched support to al-Burhan’s SAF in exchange for a naval base in Port Sudan. The conflict and chaos in Sudan has provided the perfect opportunity for outsiders to come and see what they could get out of the warlord generals. In the middle of this conflict are the Sudanese people who are trapped as disposable pawns in a war between two factions that they don’t want. What makes the Sudan war different from other ongoing conflicts is that there isn’t a clear path to peace. What is certain is that both General Abdel Fattah alBurhan and Hemedti cannot be part of Sudan’s future as they have done far too much to destroy its present. l Lyndon Mukasa is a writer and researcher. He studied International Development at the London School of Economics

WEST Africa’s geopolitical landscape is shifting. On September 16, 2023, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) after military coups in each country. Mali’s coup occurred in May 2021, Burkina Faso experienced two coups in 2022, and Niger’s most recent coup happened in July 2023, highlighting regional instability. Western media reports have generally regarded the coups as an attack on democratic institutions and an undermining of security in the region. Often they have blamed Russia for fermenting anti-Western sentiment in the region, falling back on racist stereotypes that Africans on their own could never want to push the West out. Many independent Africa media outlets are generally supportive of the leadership of the AES and see it as a sign of a renewed African liberation movement.

their heads, Africa is an empire of slaves. That’s how they view Africa. For them Africans belong to them, our land belongs to them. They’ve never been able to change their ways.” This is the rhetoric that has enflamed the hearts and minds of many young Africans across the region. However, in practice resistance has been complicated. Now regionally isolated, the AES has hired Russia’s Wagner Group for security, raising concerns about true independence. Wagner mercenaries have replaced French and American forces, leading to accusations of swapping one colonial power for another.

Repeating French mistakes

Part of the problem for these security disasters is that the leadership of the Alliance of Sahel States has chosen to replicate the military-driven approach that the French ineffectively Origins used while operating in the region. The AES was formed to unify Burkina Despite much of the Pan-African Faso, Mali, and Niger under a security rhetoric and calls for African unity pact against foreign intervention. from the leaders of the AES, there has In 2023, ECOWAS, led by Nigeria, been an inability thus far to create threatened military action and a diplomatic solution to the conflict suspended these nations, raising that has been driven by many actors fears of regional conflict. The AES with their own historical grievances expelled French and American such as the Tuareg, Fulani, Toubou, military forces and signed a mutual Moor and various Berber groups who defence agreement. have been marginalised since the The aims of all three states on establishment of the colonial borders the surface appear to represent a within the AES. new radical wave of anti-colonial In theory, the AES has an resistance. Their anti-colonial stance opportunity to turn a corner with has drawn support, particularly from these nomadic groups by looking Africa’s youth. into finding a peaceful solution that However, the region’s geopolitical could create peace and stability in landscape remains complex. the region. Instead, attempting to impose Philosophy, rhetoric the power of the nation-state on these peoples, creates the context and action for which groups like al-Qaeda can Decolonisation and resistance to exploit through new recruits. This Western imperialism is at the core of what the AES seeks to achieve. In the in my opinion represents the most significant weakness of the AES and words of Ibrahim Traoré: “Africa is a represents limitations in how far the continent that suffers and continues leadership is prepared to pursue full to suffer due to imperialists. These African liberation. imperialists have but one cliché in

JUNE 2024 THE VOICE | 29 NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 29

News

WINDRUSH SUPPORT BOOST Home Secretary launches new £1.5m fund to help victims of the scandal apply for compensation. By Sinai Fleary

ICTIMS OF the Windrush scandal will be better supported to apply for compensation through a £1.5 million fund, the Home Secretary has announced. The extra support is part of a “fundamental reset” to the Windrush generation and the first steps the new government says it is taking to ensure justice is finally delivered for victims of the scandal. A new Windrush Commissioner will be appointed to hold the government to account on the delivery of the recommendations in the Lessons Learned Review. The Commissioner will act as a trusted voice for victims and Windrush communities and also champion improvements and lasting change. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “The Windrush scandal caused terrible pain and heartache for so many families in the Windrush generation and in wider Commonwealth communities. It is rightly recognised as a period of national shame. “The hurt and anguish felt by so many has been compounded further for those who haven’t received the compensation and justice they are owed. The Windrush generation have been let down and we are committed to a fundamental reset of the response to this scandal. “We are changing the government’s approach – working more closely with victims, stakeholders, and communities, as well as those affected by all the department’s work, to ensure a scandal of this

kind can never happen again and dignity can be restored to those so tragically affected.” The £1.5 million in government grant funding will be used to increase advocacy support for victims applying to the Windrush Compensation Scheme. Within weeks of taking office, the Home Secretary re-established the Windrush Unit within the Home Office, which will oversee its response to the scandal and embed lasting cultural change across the department, after it was disbanded under the previous government in July 2023. Following the announcement, Ms Cooper chaired a roundtable discussion with key stakeholders with the aim of setting out the government’s renewed commitment to work with them to achieve justice for victims. A spokesperson for the government said it was determined to hear first-hand from members of the Windrush generation, their families and wider Commonwealth communities to ensure their experiences are listened to and learned from. DEMANDS The meeting came after a separate meeting she held with Wendy Williams, to discuss her vision for a changed Home Office. Williams oversaw the Windrush Lessons Learned Review, released by the Home Office in March 2020. The report criticised the Home Office for “ignorance and thoughtlessness” and concluded that the mistreatment of the Windrush generation was “foreseeable and avoidable”. It highlighted irrational residency demands and disregard for the Windrush generation. The review recommended re-examining the “hostile environment” immigration policy. A 2022 progress report found that the Home Office failed to transform its culture, warning the scandal could happen again, with slow compensation progress. Campaigners and experts say it was set up to fail, preventing those impacted by the Windrush scandal from

gaining any semblance of justice or compensation. At the start of this year, it was estimated that approximately £80 million had been paid out by the scheme, with £500 million allocated to compensate victims. Despite predictions of more than 15,000 applications, in the same period, less than 8000 claims have

been recorded with only a fraction of payouts being made. According to Jacqueline McKenzie, a partner at law firm Leigh Day, who has assisted hundreds of victims with their compensation claims, there are a number of key issues that need to be addressed if victims are to be properly compensated.

includes the actual numbers of people deployed so that claims could be processed in a shorter time frame. The skill set also seems problematic in that we often see initial outcomes of nil awards being overturned to become sixfigure sums. This is indicative of fundamental deficiencies in the case working.”

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ANGER: The Windrush scandal prompted protests all over the country (photo: Getty Images)

In an interview with The Voice earlier this year, she said: “The Windrush Compensation Scheme could work quite well in that it’s unique in recognising family members of victims as secondary claimants. “The real problem comes from the lack of resources deployed to implement the scheme. This

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30 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE

Nothing But Truth and Light

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

HONOURING THE KEY ROLE OF BLACK MEN IN THE BIBLE

They helped shaped the narrative of God’s kingdom and stand as living testaments to the enduring truth of his word

N CELEBRATING International Men’s Month, it’s essential to honour the contributions and influence of Black men, both in history and scripture. While many are familiar with biblical figures such as Moses, David and Peter, fewer recognise the profound presence and legacy of Black men in the Bible. This acknowledgment is not just a nod to diversity but a reclamation of the central roles that men of colour have played in shaping the narrative of God’s kingdom. From Ebed-Melech, the Ethiopian eunuch, and Simon of Cyrene, to Moses’ father-in-law Jethro, these men set examples of courage, faith and justice. Their lives serve as powerful models for Black men today, reminding us of their invaluable place in both biblical history and the broader human story. COURAGE 1 Corinthians 16:13 exhorts believers to Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. This call to strength and steadfastness has been exemplified time and again by Black men in scripture. Ebed-Melech, for instance, was a Cushite servant in the court of King Zedekiah. Though he was of lower status, his moral courage was anything but small. When Jeremiah, the prophet of God, was cast into a cistern and left to die in the mud, it was EbedMelech who, seeing the injustice, risked his life to rescue him. Ebed-Melech’s courage stands as a vivid testament to the command in Titus 2:1 to Teach what accords with sound doctrine, which includes justice and love for others. In a time

when speaking up could cost him everything, Ebed-Melech modelled what it means to stand firm in faith, to risk comfort for the sake of righteousness. In today’s world, where racism and systemic oppression continue to plague society, his story resonates deeply with the Black men who have consistently stood on the frontlines of justice. Black men like Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross of Christ on His way to Calvary, also offer a powerful reflection on what it means to bear burdens. Simon, a man from Northern Africa, was compelled by Roman soldiers to assist Jesus during His final walk to His crucifixion. Though we know little about Simon beyond this moment, his act of carrying Christ’s cross echoes a profound truth: that in bearing another’s burden, we fulfil the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). For generations, Black men have carried the weight of oppression, injustice and inequality, often without recognition or reward. Simon’s role reminds us of the quiet strength of Black men who bear the cross of adversity with dignity and grace, contributing to

From the pages of scripture to the streets of modern society, Black men have been – and continue to be – warriors for justice

the greater narrative of faith without expectation of accolades. The Ethiopian eunuch, another influential Black figure, embodies the pursuit of truth and spiritual hunger. Found in the Book of Acts, the eunuch serves as an official under the queen of Ethiopia. On his return from worshipping in Jerusalem, he reads the prophet Isaiah but struggles to understand its meaning. In this moment, Philip, a disciple of Jesus, is divinely directed to explain the scriptures to him. The eunuch’s response is immediate: he accepts Christ, asks to be baptised, and becomes the first non-Jewish convert in the New Testament. MONUMENTAL His story underscores the importance of seeking truth, asking questions, and acting on the answers, much like Black men throughout history who have sought to understand and reclaim their place in society and faith. His conversion is not just personal — it’s monumental. It signals the expansion of God’s kingdom to include all nations and peoples, breaking down the barriers that might otherwise separate them. As we consider these figures, it is impossible to overlook the challenges Black men have faced, not just in scripture but throughout history. Colossians 3:21 advises fathers: Do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. This passage highlights the responsibility of leadership and fatherhood, a mantle that Black men have shouldered with

CHAMPIONS OF FAITH: In International Men’s Month, we should honour the overlooked legacy of Black men in the Bible (photo: Getty Images)

strength and grace, often in the face of systemic discouragement. From slavery to the civil rights movement and beyond, Black men have been forced to navigate a world that too often seeks to diminish their contributions and worth. Yet, like Ebed-Melech, Simon of Cyrene, and the Ethiopian eunuch, they have persevered, carrying not just their own burdens but the weight of entire communities. Dr Tony Evans, in his work on influential Black people in the Bible, emphasises that recognising the Black presence in scripture is crucial not only for the empowerment of Black people but also to educate others about the integral role that men of African descent have played in God’s kingdom. For instance, Ham, one of Noah’s sons, was the progenitor of many African nations, including Cush, the ancestor of Ethiopians, and Mizraim, the father of the Egyptians. These lineages are not peripheral but central to biblical history. Nimrod, a descendant of Cush, is credited with founding the first great civilisation of Babylon and Assyria, cementing the fact that Black people were instrumental in the early

development of world leadership and culture. Furthermore, figures like Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, offer critical insights into leadership. Jethro, a Kenite from Midian, gave Moses some of the most essential advice about governance and spiritual leadership, counsel that shaped the nation of Israel. Jethro’s guidance to Moses on how to delegate authority and manage the people was not only practical but divinely inspired, showing that wisdom is not confined by race or status. INCLUSIVE Perhaps most compelling is the presence of Black lineage in the genealogy of Christ. Ruth, Rahab and Tamar, all women of Hamitic descent, are listed in the ancestry of Jesus. This is not a minor detail but a profound reminder that the story of salvation is inclusive. It encompasses all peoples and all nations, reinforcing the message that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free (Galatians 3:28). Black men, as descendants of these ancient peoples, are part of the very fabric of the gospel narrative. As Caleb Mathis beautifully expresses, “Scripture is full of

stories about, and from the perspective of, people of colour.” Recognising this fact not only strengthens our faith but also reminds us that God’s story is inclusive, diverse and rich with contributions from men of all backgrounds. For Black men, this recognition can serve as a source of pride and affirmation that they have always been and will continue to be central to God’s redemptive plan. The celebration of Black men during International Men’s Month is not just a reflection on their past contributions but a call to honour their ongoing strength, leadership, and faith. From the pages of scripture to the streets of modern society, Black men have been — and continue to be — warriors for justice, champions of faith, and bearers of burdens. They stand as living testaments to the enduring truth of God’s word: that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made, created in His image, and integral to His kingdom. l Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE is station director at Premier Gospel radio, a TV & radio broadcaster, and principal of gospel group Muyiwa & Riversongz

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 31

Special Feature

ADVERTORIAL

FROM ZIMBABWE TO FONTHILL ROAD Celebrating 30 Years of London Fashion Centre

rowing up in Zimbabwe, Cecilia Dewu would not have thought that one day she would own a clothing shop in London on the historic and world renowned Fonthill Road in Finsbury Park After having completed her MBA, Cecilia mustered the courage to open Cerrura Fashions inside the London Fashion Centre in 2007. The first shop she had was upstairs in an area that hardly anyone knew about, and had it not been for the constant encouragement from Vickie Christensen, the centre manager, Cerrura Fashions would not be here today. Her encouragement paid off as now they have one of the biggest shops on the ground floor with a fantastic range of outfits for mothers to wear to weddings, church and special occasions. Being the only Black owned business in the London Fashion Centre and indeed on Fonthill Road, many did not think that she would survive, but thanks to her belief in God, her emphasis on providing clothing that is unique and caters to the tastes of African and Caribbean mothers, she believes she

YEARS IN FONTHILL ROAD

has earned her place as one of the go to places on Fonthill Road for clothing for weddings and special occasions. Cerrura Fashions sells a wide variety of clothes, from African clothing, mother of the bride outfits, church outfits, dresses, skirts and tops which has resulted in them having customers from all of the world including Jamaica, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and an increasing number of English customers. The most fulfilling aspect of her business is her customers coming back to show her pictures from the event/occasion for which they had worn their outfits. As Cerrura Fashions has gone from strength to strength, Cecilia opened a brand new shop in Walsall, West Midlands in December 2017; this is managed by her son Ralph who has been working with her in the business from 2011 since he finished his university studies. For those who may not be able visit their Walsall or London store, you can visit their website www.cerrurafashions.co.uk where you can see the wide selection of clothing for mothers to wear to weddings, church and special occasions that they have available.

FASHION CENTRE 89-93 FONTHILL ROAD, FINSBURY PARK, N4 3HT TELEPHONE: +44 (0)207 263 0458

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU

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OPENING TIMES: MON - SAT 10AM TO 6PM

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We welcome you again on our 30th year, to our unique Fashion Mall in the heart of Fonthill Road. Drop in to see the latest stock and latest styles, focused on weddings, events, and general fashion for men, women and children.

FINSBURY PARK

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B R I TA I N S B E S T K E P T FA S H I O N S E C R E T

32 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Asari St Hill

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

Business and Wealth

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON? Christmas should be one of your most profitable periods of the year, so make sure to plan marketing strategies for the next few months

GET READY: No matter your business, now is the time to prepare for Christmas with gift packages, special offers, payment plans, and promoting order deadlines for larger items says Asari St Hill (photo: Getty Images)

REGARDLESS of what business you are in, you should be preparing now for Christmas and the

New Year. If you have a business-to-consumer (B2C) company, then this is most likely should be one of your most profitable periods. Whether you have a barber shop, hairdresser, sell candles or own a retail store (on the high road or online), you should be getting ready with your gift packages, special offers and with more expensive items, maybe payment plans. If you have larger items that need to be made to order, it is time to promote your deadlines for orders to arrive before Christmas. If your business has many Black consumers, understanding their cultural preferences during Christmas and New Year can help you connect better. Sharing your unique, culturally rich story can boost your online visibility, as Black customers appreciate knowing the people behind a product or service. If you run a business-to-business (B2B) enterprise, sending Christmas cards or thank you gifts can remind past and existing customers about you. Follow-up calls just to say “hi” can rekindle relationships and lead to new orders, showcasing the power of the ‘wow factor’ and personal touch. One of my business colleagues who owns a travel agency, sends a post card to all clients, after their holiday, saying “Welcome home. We hope you had a wonderful holiday.” How do you think it makes her customers feel? You can add a version of this in your business. What is your ‘critical non-essential’ (CNE) that you can send your clients? Paddy Lund is an Australian dentist who coined the phrase critical non-essentials or CNEs. A great CNE is something you can send clients that has a wow factor and gets them talking about you or your company.

I had a client who owned a curtain and blinds shop and to whom I taught the concept of CNE. I suggested she give clients who spent over £500 a small, unexpected gift. She chose vouchers for ‘tea for two’ at a high-end café, bought at a discount. These were sent after the blinds or curtains were fitted, creating a surprise. Customers loved it, and when friends or family admired their new purchase, they shared the story of the thoughtful gift. What unique gift could you offer? Are you ready for a surge in sales? One of the worst mistakes anyone can make in business is for customers to want your products or service, but you cannot meet the demand or they are not in the shops they frequent. We know online sales are huge at Christmas but that is dwarfed by physical shop sales. Did you know that even after COVID, online sales in the UK in December 2023, were still only about 27% of total retail sales? (Source: Office for National Statistics). Impulse buying is powerful during the Christmas season, and Black-owned businesses should not hesitate to approach supermarkets or independent retailers to stock their products. Many independent shops may be open to carrying items like food, cakes, or candles if you take the initiative to meet with owners. Additionally, offering finance

options or allowing customers to pay in instalments can help you secure more sales. Without promoting these options, many customers may assume they aren’t available, leading them to say no. Non-seasonal sales? If your business is typically quiet during this time of year, consider ways to attract future customers. For example, a client selling air conditioning units boosted winter sales by offering a deal and highlighting that the units could also heat homes. December is a great time to position new services or book meetings for January, as many business owners are planning for the New Year and reflecting on their past year. Don’t hesitate to discuss how your services can help businesses grow in 2025. This could be a great time to get that meeting with potential clients if they are experiencing a quiet period after a busy year. Whether your business is B2C or B2B, there is no reason you cannot look to grow your business in the run-up to Christmas. If you plan your marketing strategies for the next few months, you can identify opportunities to sell to existing, past and new clients. l Asari St.Hill is an ActionCOACH Business

Coach and Founder of the Black Business Club. For more details you can reach him via https://blackbusinessclub.org/ or Founder@BlackBusinessClub.org

PAMELA NAMED BLACK BRITISH BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR

PAMELA Maynard, Chief AI Transformation Officer at Microsoft, has been named Black British Business Person of the Year at the 2024 Black British Business Awards (BBBAwards). The ceremony, held at the InterContinental London Park Lane, celebrated Black professionals and entrepreneurs across the UK, recognising achievements in overcoming barriers and advancing diversity. Maynard, pictured, who previously led Avanade, praised the event’s energy and the trailblazers who paved the way for future generations. “I think what is really important now is that we continue to take the energy from this room forward,” she said. “There are many people in this room who have talked about the shoulders

that we stand on, and I too believe that I stand on the shoulders of trailblazers that have come before me. I really look forward to working with so many, or seeing how so many of the people in this room progress as the trailblazers of the future, because boy is this incredibly inspiring.” The BBBAwards also honoured Patrick Thomson and Rob Anarfi with Ally of the Year and Impact Awards, respectively. Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, BBBAwards founder, said: “Our BBBAwards winners are all paving the way for the next generation, proving that excellence knows no boundaries, and that, together, we can continue to reshape the future of British business.” Cecil Peters of JPMorgan Chase applauded Maynard’s contributions to STEM and noted JPMorgan’s ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and talent across industries.

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 33

News

THE NUMBERS DON’T ADD UP DEMAND: There has been a rise in Jamaican teachers being recruited into London schools.

Jamaican teachers in London schools are being failed, union warns. By Sinai Fleary

AMAICAN TEACHERS who were recruited to work for a chain of academy schools in London are being failed says the leader of a top teaching union. Last week a report in The Observer found the teachers from Jamaica had been recruited to work at the Harris Federation, but were being paid thousands of pounds less than English-trained teachers with similar experience. The teachers were classed as “unqualified” and paid much less than their counterparts while working at England’s second-largest academy chain, according to the newspaper. Daniel Kebede, General Secretary, National Education Union (NEU), claimed the academy is failing the overseas teachers. “The Harris Federation is failing Overseas Trained Teachers (OTTs). Many schools in the trust have dragged their heels in putting our

(photo: Getty Images)

members through the QTS process in a timely manner,” he said. “It is frankly unacceptable for Harris to be taking more than a year to even begin the process. This means OTTs continue to endure worse pay and working conditions for longer than is necessary, just so that a school can save money.” One teacher, Michael (not his real name), quoted in the Observer report said he was paid £2,600 a month after tax. ‘Another Windrush’ But according to Kebede as a qualified teacher on the main scale, he would have received £3,275 after tax. Michael said: “They want to retain as much money as possible by not getting [teachers from Jamaica] as qualified as the rest of the staff are. “It just feels like another Windrush situation. It’s quite a devas-

tating situation for us. The money we’re being paid just makes it really tough to live from day to day.” The Jamaican teachers also said the low pay had left them struggling with the high cost of living in London and were not given any help to find somewhere to live. A Harris spokesperson told the newspaper: “To ease cost of living

BLACK CULTURAL ARCHIVES Black Cultural Archives (BCA) empowers individuals, communities, and society by preserving and celebrating Black British history, stories, and people. As a Black-led, Brixton-based independent charity with 40 years of Black community activism, we stand as the nation’s home for Black British and global history—a beacon for Black communities both in the UK and abroad. As leaders in the heritage sector, we champion workforce development, educate across London schools, and collaborate with universities in the UK and the US. Our public programs amplify new, hidden, and established Black voices, showcasing Black excellence and talent.

In April, The Guardian reported pressures, we offer our staff packthere had been a steep rise in ages that go far beyond national pay deals. English schools recruiting Jamai“But the challenge of being able can teachers. to find and afford suitable housing According to the newspaper, in London is a problem that affects 486 qualified Jamaican teachers many teachers. Indeed, we first were recruited into English schools raised the issue eight years ago and last year, which is twice as many continue to work to find possible as in 2022. solutions.” Overall in 2023, nearly 1,100

work visas were issued to qualified secondary school teachers, which is double the 555 visas issued in 2022. Last year, Schools Week reported that staff from the Harris Federation went to Jamaica to hold interviews and hired 50 teachers to teach mainly in science and mathematics.

CELEBRATE & CHAMPION Supporting Black Cultural Archives could lead to:

EDUCATE & INSPIRE

RECLAIMING NARRATIVES

COLLECT & ACTIVATE Consider becoming a Corporate Partner. Aligning with BCA demonstrates your company’s commitment to our values and communities, while engaging and inspiring both your staff and clients. Beyond Corporate Social Responsibility and hospitality, your support will empower researchers, students, and schoolchildren, igniting creativity and new ways of representation.

Memberships for your employees or clients Invitations to Exhibition Opening Celebrations Early access to viewings Priority bookings for venue hire And more!

As a Corporate, you could reclaim your narrative by making Black British History, History and support our programmatic streams: Collect & Activate Preserve the cultural and historical contributions of Black communities across the UK Educate & Inspire Empower future generations to see themselves reflected in the past and inspire them to shape the future Celebrate & Champion Elevate the voices and stories of those who have been left out of traditional historical narratives

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STAND WITH BLACK CULTURAL ARCHIVES AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT TO COLLECT, PRESERVE AND CELEBRATE THE HISTORIES OF PEOPLE OF AFRICAN AND CARIBBEAN DESCENT IN THE UK.

34 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Darell J. Philip

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

“DARE TO DREAM, HOPE, AND ENVISION A BRIGHTER FUTURE”

Therapist and Speak Black Man founder Ontonio Dawson opens up on his journey which has led him from childhood trauma to inspiring young Black men to take control of their mental health

HIS MONTH, an awardwinning cognitive behavioural therapist and published author will be joining others in sharing personal stories of mental health challenges and the strategies they used to overcome them. Ontonio Dawson, 34, is also the founder of the Speak Black Man Virtual Conference which offers a platform for professionals in Black mental health to share practical strategies to help young Black men who face mental health challenges. Jamaican born Dawson, who currently resides in Cambridgeshire with his wife Calesia Dawson and three young children, is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young Black men, having himself experienced childhood trauma which led to mental health challenges. With support from family and professionals, he was able to overcome. BULLYING “I grew up in a rural area of Jamaica called Carterwood in Trelawny, which is known for cultivating yam,” begins Dawson. “My parents were farmers. I would describe my childhood as normal, though it included some challenging moments. I was overweight as a child, which led to bullying from my peers and feelings of insecurity.” If being bullied for being overweight was not enough, there was another issue Dawson had to face which impacted on his mental health. “At the age of 12, I failed my Grade 6 Examination and was unable to progress to secondary school because I struggled with reading,” he told The Voice. “After this setback, I felt inferior to some

CHANGEMAKER: Ontonio Dawson is channelling his life experiences when it comes to helping others; above, proudly recognised at the Inside Out Awards last month

people in my community and among my peers. Some laughed at me, while others predicted a bleak future. Failing to advance to secondary school was particularly embarrassing because all my close friends and family moved on without me. This experience marked my first encounter with mental distress and low mood; for the first time in my life, I felt as though I didn’t want to be alive because of the shame I experienced.” Yet, it was the support of his family along with his own therapy sessions which ultimately led to Dawson overcoming his mental health challenges. “With my faith in God, the

support of my encouraging family and later on, therapy, not only was I able to overcome my childhood trauma, but I also found motivation to complete my studies too. My sister gifted me the book Gifted Hands by Ben Carson, which changed my life. It took me one year to read it, and Ben Carson’s story had a profound impact on me that I went from struggling to read, to graduating at the top of my class simply through making a decision to turn my pain into purpose with additional support from my family and teachers along the way.” After completing school, Dawson had desires to go on to university but his parents did not

have the funds to facilitate this. So his older brother, who was a police officer at the time, encouraged him to join the force, which he did and enjoyed. HONOURS “I joined the Jamaica Constabulary and fell in love with my job. I graduated with the honours of Best Christian Principle and Top Debater. I was dispatched to Area One in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where I patrolled the busy tourist area on foot for about eight months. While walking these streets, I became curious about the human mind, as I observed people with mental health issues. I also noticed that

many of those committing crimes did so as a way out, rather than out of desire. This led me to pursue a degree in Psychology (Major) and Management Studies (Minor) at the University of the West Indies.” Shortly thereafter, Dawson decided to change careers and move into the area of therapy with the desire to positively impact the lives of young Black men who, like him, had experienced mental health challenges which were in some cases directly linked to childhood trauma. He relocated to the UK in 2016 where he was awarded a postgraduate qualification in High Intensity CBT therapy and him becoming a qualified CBT therapist, and now

a Senior Specialist CBT Therapist. Awarded Therapist of the Year in 2022 by Inside Out Wellbeing who provide culturally informed workshops on Mental Health provision, Dawson is the founder of Speak Black Man, a virtual conference he created in 2020 during the time of the pandemic and the racially motivated murder of George Floyd in the United States, which offers a platform to mental health professionals to share their inspiring stories and strategies on overcoming mental health challenges, particularly faced by young Black men. In its fourth year, guest speakers for this month’s conference includes: Oroyo Eubanks (Guest Host); Dr. Noreen Dera – Senior Clinical Psychologist & Black Mental Health Researcher; Augustus Reid – PhD Student, Multidimensional Trauma Specialist; Leila Lawton – Senior Specialist Cognitive Behavioural Therapist; Tishauna Mullings – Speaker, Overcoming Depression and Lamar Russell – Speaker, Overcoming Trauma. BARRIERS For the young Black men experiencing mental health challenges, Dawson states: “I have firsthand experience with the challenges you face within the school system while working in the community. There are numerous structural barriers designed to restrict your growth and development. However, as Marcus Garvey said, ‘Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery; none but ourselves can free our minds.’ While the system may treat us unfairly, you must train your mind to see the possibilities in the pain and problems you encounter in society. Don’t allow yourself to be trapped in negativity. You possess the potential to grow and become someone of great value to the world. Engage with the system, but don’t let it define you. Remove the lens of negativity and hopelessness that is often imposed upon you, and dare to dream, hope, and envision a brighter future.” l Tickets for the Survive to Thrive – Speak Black Man 2024 Virtual Conference on Saturday, November 9 2024, 4pm-7pm can be ordered through Eventbrite l Darell J. Philip is a teaching assistant, academic mentor and award-winning journalist

Lifestyle 42

36 She has a new album and a unique story. Meet EyiTemi

38-39

No line up info required, book your flights now for St Kitts Music Festival 2025

CHRIS McCAULSKY

Stand-up star talks business

It is the highest mountain in Africa and DJ Seani B scaled it for his 50th birthday

36 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Lifestyle

Music

EyiTemi speaks to Lifestyle about heritage, dreams and success as she releases her new album, Kaleidoscope

DOING IT HER WAY: EyiTemi turned to writing at the height of the Covid pandemic

ORN IN London, raised partly in Nigeria and partly in the UK, I feel both parts of my cultures. I must admit, though, I feel more affinity to my Nigerian heritage. I always say that until I came back to the UK, I didn’t know I was Black! Why would I? In Nigeria everyone else was Black so I didn’t notice colour. I wish it stayed that way. I am also a mum of one and a Chief Financial Officer with a degree in Linguistics. As a Nigerian, we kinda collect qualifications. I used to want to hide the fact I was an accountant as I felt it somehow meant I would be viewed as less creative. No idea where THAT came from! I have always sung in church but had a real complex about my voice. I felt as a Black person, if my voice wasn’t in the neighbourhood of the Whitney’s (it isn’t ), then clearly, I couldn’t be a real singer or at least the kind of singer I wanted to be. So, conforming to the adage of ‘those who can’t, teach’, I instead spent a few years championing the incredible talent I had around me that wasn’t shockingly being given enough platforms worthy of their talent. PROUD Through my company, J’noir Entertainment, I curated and produced events for these groups of artists. I am proud to say I featured in my events, some of the most talented unsigned acts in the scene at that time. These included Troy Miller (who was the MD of my events), Soweto Kinch, David Okumu’s Jade Fox and Eska — now recognisable and respected names. In that time, I released three albums for my record label and joined BBC Jazz Awards innovation award panel, two years in a row. They were some of my happiest music memories. The songwriter part of my journey is a relatively new one and incredibly, one of the byproducts of lockdown. In 2020, with the world at a standstill and nothing to do, I started writing. At any other time, I wouldn’t have had the time or the courage. The world however was a place that had had a lot stripped away from it, which made me braver. It wasn’t in the end a difficult process. It seemed somewhere deep within me, there had been

‘I walk a path that is comfortably my own’ ‘stuff ’ waiting and wanting to come out. My initial voice insecurity, gone. I understand now the value of different voices and experiences in making the music landscape richer and diverse. We don’t all have to sound the same. It is important we don’t. The journey as an independent artist has been an interesting balance of the creative process and the more ‘mundane’ but necessary practical administrative aspect. My music is self-written, selffunded and self-released through my record label, J’noir Records. It has been a long and hard

journey. Not the music, everything else. Trying to wear so many hats as an independent and do it well is close to impossible. It is not made any easier by how difficult it is to get music out to the general public. Routes to the platforms (media and radio, for example) with the biggest audience are crowded, noisy and busy. With many artists trying to get heard, it is potluck to be seen or heard if you are not already one of the big names. Talent is not necessarily the deciding factor. I love a wide range of music, but my heart is rooted in jazz. Kind of Blue (Miles

Davis), my go to. My musical inspirations range from legends Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone and Frank Sinatra to favourites Jill Scott and India Arie. I walk a path that is comfortably and firmly, my own. My music is personal and rich with intention. I genuinely feel I have a voice that is relevant in my piece of earth and my ambition is to express this honestly through my music. In my relatively short life so far as an artist I have released two EPs. My new album ( first full album) Kaleidoscope is made up of songs written over a period of time and so charts various seasons of

my life — ebbs and flows. It was recorded live with my band at the iconic Rockfield Studios in Wales. Recording at Rockfield is the highlight of my career so far. This album is also the first time I got involved in production. Most of the album was co-produced with the band. The styles of music in Kaleidoscope stretches past generic Soul to incorporate pieces of hip-hop, neo soul, folk, funk, gospel and jazz. My hope is that Kaleidoscope (as with all my music) connects and resonates with people for all the fun aspects but also importantly for me, on a deep level.

l EyiTemi celebrates her new album Kaleidoscope as part of EFG London Jazz Festival on November 16 at Riverside Studios, Hammersmith. She performs live with her band, mini choir and special guests (including dance)

NOVEMBER 2024

THE VOICE | 37

38 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Lifestyle

A music festival in paradise that has it all

perspective in the Since inception in 1996, St Kitts Music person coming months on all the fun frolics the island has to offer, Festival has grown to become one and but for this article I wanted to home in on the festival itself. of the Caribbean’s most iconic I must admit getting into the events. By Joel Campbell island the day before the festival

Whether a local, tourist, or native returning, everyone is treated with the utmost respect. Good vibes only it prior to experiencing it myself, it’s only got better and better with age. I want to take this chance to thank the whole hospitality and tourism authority team for making my second time in St Kitts (my first trip was in 2006) one of the best working getaways I’ve had. I’ll be following up with a first

CLASSY: Freddie Jackson belt out the classics

RAUCOUS: Mical Teja got the crowd jumping the press conference was the first time I had been in the company of these artists. They were ready and promised to start the 2024 St Kitts Festival the right way. They didn’t disappoint. I hope soca kicks off the first day again next year. It set the tone. Warner Park Stadium is a lovely venue for this event and the years of putting it together have enabled the country to deliver a very smooth running and well put together spectacle. There are many festivals in the UK and across Europe that could take a leaf from their book. Whether a local, international

Photos: St Kitts Music Festival

T’S THE last day of the 2024 St Kitts Music Festival and I’m watching R&B legend Freddie Jackson get absolutely lost in the delivery of his performance, wooing random women in between belting out his classics with all the swagger of a man who has been here and done this many times before. I was a little tired but as I stood appreciating the veteran for the classy and wholesome way in which he was working the crowd, in what was at that point, a half full Warner Park Stadium, he stopped the music to garner even greater attention from those who were, like myself, locked in. He explained why 26 years after he performed at the first iteration of this event, it still had a very special place in his heart. Suddenly his performance made even more sense and at that point, I got it. Twenty-six years is a long time for anything to be running and from every journalist to jump raver I have ever spoken to about

started was not something I would do again. I don’t usually suffer jet lag but it had me on the ropes for the first 48 hours. When locals kept telling me that there was no specific finish time to each day of the festival, I didn’t take them seriously. I mean, it started at 7pm in the evening, how late could it finish? Well, I’ll tell you this much, I got back to my hotel at breakfast time the next day and the same, the day after that. However, soca is very much my therapy and even when I hit the wall, physically and mentally at around midnight on the first evening of festivities, the fervent Warner Park vibes kept me very much on my feet. Mical Teja, Pumpa, iTebulous et al had me jumping up like some no-bed-time-having teenager. Add to that the fact I just couldn’t leave before my fellow Dominican, Asa Bantan, absolutely tore the place apart. He came on last. Or was he the last thing I remember? Either way, it was a raucous moment. I should have known. Earlier in the day ( first thing in the morning)

HIGH SPIRITS: Festival-goers at Warner Park Stadium tourist, native returning, everyone is treated with the utmost respect and everyone is on their best behaviour. Good vibes only. Another thing I really liked was the adult-like approach to addressing those who smoke and those who don’t. Not everyone

likes weed, despite the way some stand and puff on it in public. At the St Kitts Music Festival, this is dealt with in a way where if you partake in that sort of thing, you can, but in the designated area. Everyone respects these rules. If you want to do it VIP style,

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 39

Music PM: FESTIVAL GETS BETTER AND BETTER

THE ST Kitts Music Festival was created in the 1990s by G A Dwyer Astaphan, the then Minister of Tourism and Culture. Hailing Marsha Henderson, cabinet minister and parliamentary representative for Central Basseterre, for her efforts in pulling this year’s event together, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew, told Lifestyle this year’s festival couldn’t have been better. “Well, I would say that the music festival was well executed and I would like to congratulate the minister responsible, the honourable Marsha Henderson and the team for an excellent job, well done.” He added: “I have a few visitors here and they are very astonished, so to speak, with what is being produced here in St Kitts and Nevis and I think that speaks for itself. “I think the performers came to perform and really lived up to the standard that is expected at the St Kitts Music Festival and for me any music festival in the region. “One of the things I have asked the Ministry and the minister to do is an economic impact study. It goes beyond just the night.” Drew said early indications were that this year’s festival was their best to date. He enthused: “I spoke to all of the hoteliers and our numbers are up significantly this year, they are saying they are seeing numbers beyond what they expected. “All of it is because we are promoting the country in different ways and means and the music festival is definitely one of them.”

‘AN EDUCATION’: Kabaka Pyramid in full flow you’re more than looked after, with a multitude of very reasonable ticket price points that cater to varying needs. Sightlines for those who don’t like to get too close to the stage have been thought through, it really is a pleasant experience. Day two, I was struggling come 6ish when we headed to the stadium. But it was reggae day, Capleton, Kabaka Pyramid, Busy Signal and a few other top tier artists were performing and I wasn’t missing any of that. I’d seen most of the artists perform before so I kinda knew what to expect, what I didn’t envisage was AJ Brown from Third World absolutely blowing my socks off with a rendition of Time To Say Goodbye that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I kid you not, it was absolutely unbelievable. He’d done it before, been doing it for years I was told after. I implore you, if you

ever get the opportunity to see this man, sing, take it. If Soca’s my therapy, then reggae is what feeds my soul. I told Kabaka in our brief conversation after he jumped off stage that his performance was brilliant. I was taking it in with an American journalist who said to me that it was an education watching Kabaka. He wasn’t wrong. EMOTIVE Refined, sturdy, emotive, the Jamaican credits the likes of musical peers Damian Marley, Capleton and Anthony B for why his own stage show has come on leaps and bounds over the years. It made sense. Capleton, or the ‘Fireman’ as he is affectionately known, was closing the show on day two, I think in hindsight, everyone raised their game because of this. Even though the rain fell for small

TALENT: Some of the performers over the three-day festival periods during his performance, nothing could dampen the vibes. As I stood in the media pit singing Stand Tall at the top of my voice, I wondered if it got any better than this. Yeah, Mary J Blige was the main big draw on day three, but for me, day two had been everything I wanted from a festival, my cup was full. As well as Capleton, it had been on my to-do list to see Masicka perform. Him and Busy Signal are two of my favourite reggae and dancehall artists. They delivered as if they were in front of a crowd that had never seen them before, I love that energy. It was the same with Rick Ross too. He was arguably just as big a draw for a lot of people coming to the event on that last day and I must say, the usually mild mannered St Kitts audience lost their minds for that one.

The mix of talent on display over the three days spoke volumes about this festival. Soul, soca, jazz, R&B, calypso, meringue, zouk, dancehall, reggae, hip-hop, it had it all. Everyone wanted to be there. Coming in on the flight from London the plane was packed, not a spare seat, as you would expect. It’s the ultimate mid-year trip. As aforementioned, in next month’s Lifestyle pages I’ll get into where to stay, what to do and what to eat, but for now I can’t stress this enough, book your plane tickets and worry about the festival line-up later. No matter who they get to perform, no matter who comes, you will have a top time. The track record is proven and nothing about my experience suggests they are going to drop their level now.

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Lifestyle

Beauty

FOR THAT SOMEONE SPECIAL Just been paid? Don’t leave all of your Christmas shopping until the last minute and where you can, support Black-owned businesses and products. Lifestyle has tested a few products in order to ensure that they deserve to be considered as an ideal present for a loved on. By Joel Campbell

NZEMA APPOLO — ORGANIC SKINCARE In 2023, Nzema Appolo was launched after the pharmaceutical industry had nothing left to offer the founder, Nadia Takyiwaa-Mensah, in order to heal her eczema. After 18 months of using natural body butters her eczema not only cleared up but also the damage to her skin was also repaired. Nzema Appolo is a 100 per cent, natural, vegan skincare alternative which hydrates, protects, heals and restores your skin. Loaded with natural vitamins A, B, C, D, E and F, Omega 3, 6, 9, fatty acids and anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties, the range works with your body's sebum and microbiome providing you with healthy skin. l To learn more visit: www.nzemappolo.com instagram @nzema.appolo.skincare Unrefined Raw Cocoa Butter 250ml, £16 Unrefined, Raw Shea Butter 250ml, £12 Cold-Pressed Neem Oil 100ml, £15

Cold-Pressed Shea Oil 100ml, £15

Cold-Pressed Baobab Oil 100ml - £15

DABA: HIGH-QUALITY PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS FOR MEN WITH MELANIN-RICH SKIN I can’t tell you how much we love this product and we’ll be bringing you an interview with the co-founders in 2025. This one is for men. Ladies, if you want to get any of the men in your life (husband, brother, uncle, friend) smelling right, but not with the usual scents on offer from your local high street, consider both the Daba Body Wash and the Daba Body Lotion. The Body Wash, infused with the aromatic notes of Bourbon and Oak gently cleanses and soothes skin with organic fair trade ingredients. The wash delivers moisture and hydration, through key ingredients like Shea Butter and Glycerin. It’s complemented beautifully by the Body Lotion, which is infused with the aromatic notes of chocolate and vanilla (you read that right). The lotion gives long-lasting moisture that instantly leaves the skin feeling softly moisturised with a natural glow. Packed with 98 per cent natural ingredients including fair trade shea butter and cocoa butter and vitamin E. l getdaba.com DABA Body Duo, £21

THE SILK TRESS HAIR STRAIGHTENER FROM NOMA SANA The Silk Tress Hair Straightener from Noma Sana are hair straighteners designed specifically for Black and Afro hair types. Providing better care for the most voluminous hair types – typically classed as type 3 or type 4 hair – that are usually overlooked by manufacturers, the key features include, titanium plates that deliver a sleek finish, a detachable comb to help minimise breakage and help the straightener glide over hair and ion technology, which creates a protective layer to lock in moisture. The majority of hot hair tools on the market take a one-size-fits-all approach to their products despite there being a number of different hair types. Noma Sana aims to become the go-to brand for Afro and curly hair, helping those with textured hair types to get a polished finish without damaging their locks. Lily Odogwu, founder of Noma Sana, said: “There is no one-size-fits-all product when it comes to looking after different hair types, and there are few options for people with curly and coily hair. After years of trying to find a product that worked for me and my hair type, and was easy to use, I created my own. Noma Sana puts Black and Afro hair types at the forefront of design and testing. I aim to encourage those with textured hair to love the process of caring for their hair. People with voluminous hair no longer need to settle, or pay premium prices, for something that hasn’t been made for their hair type.” Noma Sana’s Silk Tress Hair Straightener is available for the introductory price of £180 and is now available online at www.nomasana.com.

PHOTO CREATOR RETRO INSTANT CAMERA

Right this one isn’t Black owned, BUT, Lifestyle Editor Joel Campbell believes these retro style camera’s offer value beyond the obvious. The Photo Creator Retro Instant Camera, is a blend of nostalgic charm and modern innovation designed to inspire creativity and capture memories instantly. The camera brings the magic of instant photography to a new generation whilst offering a fun and interactive way for children to explore the world of photography. Beyond obviously getting your children to take pictures it gets them away from the dreaded mobile phone screen. It forces them to look up and not down, observe the world around them. Key Features of the Photo Creator Retro Instant Camera include instant printing, large LED screen, flash, customisable prints and they can even make videos RRP: £69.99

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 41

Books

Lifestyle

WE SHOULD NEVER STOP BELIEVING IN OUR DREAMS! Talented creative director of Peaches Publications, Winsome Duncan, is on a roll - and wants to change the narrative

AM passionate about books and the representation within them, and as I celebrate being recognised by the BBC, landing a 1XTRA Future Figures 2024 award, I wanted to share with you my journey so far. As a neurodiverse entrepreneur within the UK publishing industry, I’ve had to be persistent in pushing untold stories that leave the planet with a plethora of diverse legacy books for children and adults to enjoy worldwide. Last month’s Black History theme, ‘Reclaiming the Narrative’, is one I wholeheartedly embrace and one I believe preserves the terrain from which rich, cultural heritage stories of the African Caribbean diaspora derive. There’s great value in promoting Black and brown stories in literature. I was diagnosed with dyslexia aged 16 when I attended Kingsway college. I heard and saw the world through a jumbled lens. Having to retake my GCSEs before doing my A-levels and generally struggling with the conventional learning environment, it wasn’t until I twice won the African Caribbean showcase with my poetry and singing, being asked three times to host the student event, that the fuel to pursue my own artistic talents was born. I have always had a colourful, vivid and textured imagination. If your dreams do not scare you they are not big enough. I believe we are all worthy to be celebrated, you are worthy of wearing a crown. We should all push beyond society’s limitations and the spells that people cast over your life daily that restrict growth. The BBC 1Xtra Future Figures 2024 award means the world to me because, finally, my work is visible to an audience that would never see me. Leadership can be a lonely, cold, isolating road. I am thrilled to bits that I am recognised by my peers. Going forward with my life’s calling, I will continue

to work and support the growth of authors aged seven to 18-years-old through the ‘Look Like Me Book Challenge’. For the past two years, I have become a scriptwriter and look forward to seeing my 3D animation series and TV drama streamed worldwide. My company motto is ‘Changing the Narrative’ because I truly believe it’s up to all of us to demand a transformation of the literature landscape through proactive action and not tokenistic rhetoric. I secured my first corporate partnership with advertising company Clear Channel UK earlier this year. This has been a fantastic opportunity for us to be seen by thousands of people. The last 12 months have seen a nationwide campaign of diverse children’s books on billboards, bus stops, black phone boxes and shopping centres, which has been fantastic for our young authors to be a part of. The next goal is to gain seed funding for £50,000 on the Go Fund Me platform to create a professional pitch deck and a sizzle reel demo to pitch to broadcasters at home and abroad. I want to firmly put the narrative of Caribbean Superheroes on the map with 3D animation. Kalaria: The Irie Island is an intergenerational show with a feel good storyline for the entire family. Last year, I attended the Children’s Media Conference which allowed me to meet top executives from Sky, BBC, Netflix, Paramount, Cartoon Network, Aardman, Warner Bros and Nickelodeon, just to name a few. The future is fully loaded. I’m going to continue to bring vibrant and colourful textured stories to life, not just in print via our books but also to a television, laptop or a phone near you. If you have ever been told in your life, ‘It is not possible,’ I’m here to assure you — it absolutely is, you just have to believe.

BILLBOARD: Winsome Duncan’s book campaign

BLACK CULTURAL ARCHIVES: COLLECT, EDUCATE, CELEBRATE ‘Race Today: Black History is British History’

RACE TODAY:

Black History is British History

CURRENT EXIBITIONS

We invite you to explore the profound impact of the Race Today journal, focusing on the specific years of 1973 to 1988 under the leadership of the Race Today Collective. This story is not just a chapter in history but a living thread, connecting the struggles of the past with the ongoing fight for justice today and beyond. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the radical work of the Race Today Collective, not just as a tribute to history, but as a source of inspiration and to equip ourselves with the tools necessary to continue advancing the fight for justice. ‘Race Today: Black History is British History’ stands as a pivotal exhibition in the conversation of reclaiming narratives.

A special thank you to the Race Today Collective: Jean Ambrose Barbara Beese Michael Cadette Eden Charles Farrukh Dhondy

Mala Dhondy (née Sen) Patricia Dick Leila Hassan Claudius Hilliman Darcus Howe

Linton Kwesi Johnson Akua Rugg Marva Spencer Lorine Stapleton (née Burt)

And Award-Winning Filmmaker & Educator, Wayne G. Saunders

Black Cultural Archives 1 Windrush Sq. Brixton, SW2 1EF blackculturalarchives.org info@bcaheritage.org.uk Registered charity no. 1051087 · Limited company no. 03113148

42 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Lifestyle

Comedy

FROM A ‘BAD BREED’ TO AN ALL-ROUND GOOD GUY Chris McCaulsky’s riding high after a very eventful journey through life. By Joel Campbell

E’S GOT a look of mischief about him, so it’s no surprise to hear stand-up comedian and podcast host Chris McCaulsky tell Lifestyle he was a bit of ‘bad breed in school’. McCaulsky has been peppering your social media timeline for the past six years, going viral on countless occasions with his unique brand of humour and out-there takes on everyday life occurrences across the entertainment industry. His stock and loyal audience has grown quickly as he has evolved over that time, but little is known about his journey. Stand-up, of all of the live performance art forms, is not an easy lane to maintain momentum in, let alone make money in. He seems to have found a balance though. He explains: “I got into stand-up comedy about six years ago. I’m still a personal trainer. “I started personal training because I used to be really overweight when I was in my teens and I hadn’t achieved anything before achieving my weight loss. “I was a bit of a bad breed in school. Not badly, just mischievous. So I didn’t really achieve anything. “So when I started to lose weight, it was the first time I achieved anything, and I thought to myself, ‘If I can apply this formula to everything else then I can make something more of my life.’” That light-bulb moment is where the momentum for McCaulsky really kicks in. A ‘quick access course in college’ in order for him to secure a place at university led to McCaulsky studying a sports science degree. He ‘fell into personal training’, a vocation in which he ‘does well in’, but it took him in a slightly different direction than he anticipated, but one he was keen to embrace. “I still do early personal training sessions in the mornings and even the afternoons. But I also started to pick up other things, like Cuban Salsa, advanced Cuban Salsa, advanced Kizomba, which is an African-Portuguese style of dancing. I started playing music instruments, and I applied

the same formula, like I said from when I lost weight, to all these other things, and I became good at that. “I loved performing arts. This was my field, the dancing, the music, so let me try stand-up comedy. I just started making content, and one day I said I want to do characters because there was a trend with a lot of people doing characters. “Michael Dappah did his character. Munya Chawawa had a character. There were loads of characters, so I thought I would drop a character, and his name was Branches, and Branches went viral. “Artists started following me and I was like, ‘Whoa, this is good’. “So I started doing content creation with stand-up as well. My character helped me go viral, and what that did was sort of push my comedy, people wanted to come and see me. “But that just gives you more pressure because I’m still fresh in the game.” He added: “To be fair, I haven’t had many trip-ups in stand-up comedy. I think maybe it was more of a natural calling for me.” He might be right. He’s completed multiple tours over the years, with popular comedians such as White Yardie, The Real Deal Comedy Jam and more recently Kane Brown, with whom he also hosts the Rated18podcast alongside his Uncle Percy. He’s found a lane that works for him, learned quickly and, most importantly, understood how to monetise his business.

SHAPING HIS LIFE: Being a personal trainer put Chris McCaulsky on the right track to a successful, and varied, career

I started personal training, as I hadn’t achieved anything before achieving my weight loss Over the upcoming Christmas period, McCaulsky, just like every comedian, will be hoping to fill his diaries with as many bookings as possible in order to capitalise on the festive desire to have a laugh and be entertained.

He’s very aware of the fact it’s so far so good, but he’s not resting on his laurels. He says taking lessons from his experiences on other podcasts he’s been a part of has put him in good stead to produce a more refined product and put himself in a position to attract bigger business. “I’ve worked with Kane on a podcast before and I’ve worked with my Uncle Percy in general, just doing content in our car. We used to do a live show, and people used to love it. We used to have over a thousand people tune in. “And I thought, let’s make all of us three do a podcast together. And that was a year ago. “We’re almost at 100,000 followers on Instagram. We’ve got 60,000 followers on YouTube and we’ve got a load of followers on our Patreon, which is where POPULAR: Kane Brown and Uncle Percy have proved a winning combination on the podcast; right, Chris McCaulsky is also equally at home doing his podcast or appearing on stage as a successful stand-up comedian

they pay to watch the full show. You can watch half the show on YouTube, the full show on Patreon if you pay for it. We’ve had two sold-out shows as well. “I’ve just kind of worked my way within the entertainment industry from content creating, which I’m still doing and attracting brands. “That’s mainly what I’m doing the content for now, to attract brands. So I can get BIG CHANGE : brand deals, get paid better How Chris money for content created, used to look because sometimes you create content and you’re like, where’s this going? make it a business. Just making it “But now I’m doing it for a interesting. reason. With the podcast side it’s “Me, Kane and my Uncle Percy, basically a business now. we’re all three different characters “So whereas the first podcast I but we all gel so. This is why used to look at as just fun, now, people love it, you know. They say you have to look at how you can it’s like boys talk in a locker room. “People like it. The women like hearing what men have to talk about and the men also relate to it because they feel it’s them when they hang out or when they’re in school talking to each other. “So that’s the mix there, that’s my life at the moment. Personal training, content creating, I’m, a podcast host and do stand-up.” Not bad for a ‘bad breed’ at school. l Watch the full interview on our website where Chris explains why family, his mother in particular, mean so much to him

Reclaiming Narratives Celebrating Black History 40 Years of Black British Lives is a compelling chronicle of the lived experiences of the Black British community over the last four decades. This insightful narrative which is taken from The Voice’s archives, encompasses diverse fields such as education, health, politics, sports, entertainment, and pivotal social issues. The book captures the rich and complex history of Black British life and serves as an essential read, offering an invaluable perspective on the ongoing struggles and achievements of the Black community in the UK.

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44 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

This is Brukout!

by Seani B AWE-INSPIRING: At 5,895 metres, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain

(photo: Getty Images)

PEAK OF MY POWERS

T WASN’T something I was going to scream and shout about! I was about to hit the big 5-0 and I was hiding it as if I had something to be ashamed of. However, after I accomplished the challenge of a lifetime by walking to a height of 5,895 metres (19,340 feet) to reach the peak of Africa’s highest mountain Kilimanjaro, I thought, what the hell do I have to be ashamed of? TALK LOUD! Yes people, on September 29, 2024, on my birthday I summited the infamous Kilimanjaro mountain in Tanzania, and ticked a massive box that has been hanging over my head for 20 years. I know it’s customary for a DJ like myself to have a ‘birthday bash’ which is something I have done for the last 13 years, but this year for obvious reasons I wanted something different to fulfil me. Mount Kili was what kept creeping into my mind after seeing an image online randomly. In 2004 whilst in Kenya, I was very fortunate to be on a flight from Nairobi to Mombasa to see this African beauty piercing

to complete the romantic idea in my head with music. The task at hand was a 45-mile trek across five days to get to the Uhuru Peak and play a Kilimanjaro Dubplate then walk back down. Armed with no experience but box outside the Harper family with so much passion, I booked shop.” the climb with just two weeks to I didn’t realise hearing these get ready. I was ill-prepared, as stories of this soundsystem I had never embarked on such that was formed in 1969 would an adventure. There are many influence me so many years later routes to choose to climb the to push me to the top of Africa, mountain, but my choice was the oldest route called Marangu aka the Coco-Cola route. The advice I was getting was not to take this as it’s not the easiest and has the lowest success rate due to the short space of time to acclimatise. I continued in my conviction though as this MADE IT: Seani B route had huts to of mit at the sum sleep in, rather Mount Kilimanjaro than camping in a tent which

A legendary soundsystem proved the inspiration for me to celebrate the big 5-0 at the top of Africa through the clouds with its ice covered peak. I knew at that moment that I wanted to conquer the mountain. If you’re thinking at this point that this walk must be linked to the legendary Jamaica Soundsystem Kilimanjaro, then you would be absolutely correct. In 1985, my eldest brother came to the UK on my birthday. Every move my brother made, I was there, stuck like glue. His taste quickly rubbed off on an impressionable Seani who had just turned into a teenager. I wanted to wear his silk shirts and emulate him, so falling in love with his Kilimanjaro tape collection was effortless. I then found out that my mum went to school with Jaro’s owner Noel Harper. My grandmother would always chip in with her story of “hearing the one likkle hoarse

I had never done before. Packed and ready to go, I landed in Tanzania feeling under the weather and already not eating properly due to the malaria and altitude sickness tablets I was taking daily. This was not the ideal way to start six days of walking, with each day lasting five hours minimum but I was here. The days were long, but each day I pushed through the mental and physical challenges with the help of seeing nature up-close and personal. Rain forests filled with blue and colobus monkeys going about their daily business just above your heads, the Alpine desert where the clouds suddenly descended upon us bringing snow in Africa, or waking up each morning looking down at the clouds – this was enough to keep me pushing feeling like Sir David Attenborough. The final day getting to the summit was the greatest test. The ascent became much steeper whilst walking on fine gravel. Each step was “pole pole” (“slowly slowly” in Swahili), as at this point due to the lack of air because of the altitude we

were at everything became hard. I hadn’t eaten for a few days and the dreaded nausea was setting in. Excuse the detail, but I had to force myself to throw up and this was recommended by the guides and it brought great relief. I couldn’t believe I had paid to suffer these side effects of the mighty mountain, but after walking for four days, then an 11hour walk to the summit arriving at 8:30am, I would be lying to say it wasn’t worth it. When I played Kilimanjaro’s dubplate anthem Reasons by Johnny Osbourne at the peak, I was overwhelmed by emotions. Not just because I reached my goal, but knowing I have surpassed all my life goals and still want to push for more. This showed me that hitting a certain age in life doesn’t slow you down and doesn’t define you. I’m still the same Seani B that stood up on the corner on White City Estate that had a dream... and I’m still dreaming! Thank you to everyone that donated and supported the GoFundMe for two schools in St Andrew, Jamaica.

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 45

Lifestyle

Education

PREPARING CHILDREN FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

New African history learning app from singer Fuse ODG is guaranteed to be a big hit. By Joel Campbell

HETHER YOU diligently spent time with your children ensuring they were enriched with education about who they are and whey they come from during Black History Month or you do that as a matter of course 365, 24/7, check out School Of New Africa, SONA, the new app from singer, songwriter and rapper, Fuse ODG. Brought to market by the Ghanaian musician and his business partner Andre Hackett, SONA is a groundbreaking educational gaming platform designed to teach African history and languages while promoting financial literacy through an innovative in-game rewards system. Why groundbreaking? Well, it’s never been done before. Explaining to Lifestyle why they believed SONA was poised to become a vital tool in educating young people worldwide about African history, and languages, and why they had to incorporate a focus on financial literacy, Hackett believes not preparing

POPULAR: Fuse ODG performing back in 2015 (photo: Getty Images)

our children to engage with the impending financial landscape would literally leave them shortchanged. “The main thing is about leadership, and part of leadership is learning how to manage resources,” Hackett enthused. “So that’s why we wanted to connect financial literacy alongside historical education.” Using SONA, children and parents and guardians are taken through interactive lessons and engaging gameplay. Users can explore the stories, languages and historical figures that have shaped Africa, all while having fun. LOCKDOWN Hackett said: “We’d had the idea for a long time, but never had the time to work on it. Lockdown hit and we couldn’t tour, and all of a sudden we had loads of time. “Obviously, in the midst of that, everything happened with George Floyd, and we kind of knew that this solution was there and it needed to be built. “I think the silver lining that came out of that whole period

was that people got to the point where they understood that if there is going to be a difference made, it has to be at an economic level, it has to be at a political level if we’re going to see any form of justice. “But our understanding is that you’ll never have an economic revolution or a political revolution unless you have a psychological one first. “And so that’s telling our stories, actually changing the way we see ourselves, psychologically, we feel is the key to having that end result in the economic and political realm.” As far as careers go, Fuse ODG can legitimately say he has a good one. But his motivation has always been beyond beats and bars. It’s about purpose for him. Creating SONA is in line with his overall goal to uplift Africa and Africans in every sense of the word. “I think that’s what’s really kept us here (in the music business) and motivated us to keep going. It’s been about pushing the culture forward and changing the perception of Africa, realigning the world’s mental image of how they see Africa and how Africans themselves see themselves.” Fuse added: “Through the music, we’ve been able to start a self-love revolution where Africans started to fall back in love with themselves, you know, no longer pretending to be from Jamaica or the Caribbean. “We were pushing a different image of the continent of Africa. Unlike what mainstream media tends to push, which is poverty, famine and kids with flies around their mouth, stuff that I’ve mentioned in the past. “We wanted to be the platform to push a different narrative, a

TOP COLLABORATION: Fuse ODG and Andre Hackett are the brains behind the new app narrative that’s closer to the truth of the Africa that we know. The Africa that I grew up in, Africa that I go back to every year. And we managed to do that through the music.” Having built a physical school back in Ghana, Fuse says it was a natural progression to envelope the same teaching spirit in the digital space. He says being fortunate enough to travel with his music has given him the opportunity to engage with Black people all over the world who want to better understand their roots or origin. He knows the appetite and need for SONA is there. He explained: “When I went to Jamaica and went to the Caribbean, it felt like they really wanted to connect with us, reconnect with us. “There was this sense of love that, as the diaspora, we really wanted to reconnect with ourselves.” He added: “Even when I have sitdowns and studio sessions with Damian Marley, sit-downs with Chronixx and Kabaka Pyramid, my brothers over in Jamaica, there’s this thirst for us to want to reconnect and rebond. “What happened 400 years ago, that really separated us. Four hundred years of wrong

education and 400 years of wrong influence on us to disunite us, just to discombobulate the African nation. “We’re at a time when we’re coming back together. So for myself and my business partner, we’re like, when you love yourself, you want to know more. “So we feel like it was the perfect time for us to provide a platform that would allow people to really find out who they are, and that’s what SONA is about.” AUTHENTIC Understanding that even when people want to know more about their history, the mass amounts of information can get overwhelming, Fuse said SONA ‘simplifies the content’ making it’ more digestible’ but staying ‘authentic to the stories that are hidden’. Both Fuse and Hackett insist, though, it’s not just for the kids. Giving insight into what has gone into pulling together the end product and why there is residual value to which can be garnered by the user whether young or old, Hackett said: “In order to bring the app together, we worked with a lot of financial institutions to build something that’s never existed before. “We have a partnership with

Mastercard. We have a sponsor bank that makes sure all of the funds are safe from a regulatory perspective. “Connecting that has been a really powerful added value to the initial proposition of learning our history. “But actually it’s another way of them expressing and learning leadership at an early age, managing resources and managing their pocket money. “We’re preparing the children for the next generation. We’ve gone past the days of piggy banks, and soon physical cash is not going to really be existing. “So if we’re not preparing them to use currency and to use digital platforms when it comes to money, then we’re kind of doing the next generation a disservice.” Fuse added: “SONA is really a platform to really allow our people to discover who they’re supposed to be. “We’re primarily targeting the kids right now, because it’s easier for kids to learn than for adults to unlearn but it’s so interesting that as an adult, even when you sign your child up for it, you’re gonna learn, because there’s so many interesting things that we didn’t know because we weren’t really taught in school.”

46 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

TOP SPORTS COVERAGE 24/7 VOICE-ONLINE.CO.UK/SPORT

OF SPORT NEWSPAPER

NOVEMBER 2024 | THE VOICE

Lord Ouseley: My boss, my motivator, my friend

Troy Townsend MBE, the respected anti-racism campaigner, pays homage to the late Lord Herman Ouseley

ORD Herman Ouseley was a leader, a driver for change and a man who stood on the highest mantle and spoke his truth no matter who was in the room. It would be extremely hard to gauge the enormous amount of respect I have for Lord Herman Ouseley. It would definitely take more than the word count I have here. I joined Kick It Out in 2011 as a volunteer. I knew of the great man’s work but had never met him. His aura lit up any room, so when I did finally get to meet him I wanted to absorb everything I could from him. His passion, his mannerisms, how he embraced pressure and how he interacted with people. I have been in football an exceptionally long time, but I was stepping into the unknown, I wanted to be an advocate for change, support and guide young people and I landed on the perfect role model. Even as a volunteer he embraced me, his first words calmed me, and I felt welcomed from the very beginning. Herman’s influence went further than he could ever have imagined and for the coming years I just wanted to be acknowledged and recognised by him for my unwavering stance against racism in football that would increasingly grow, and I never ever wanted to let him down or for him to feel like I was not doing a good job or saying or behaving out of turn at any given moment. Within my first few months at the organisation, the Anton Ferdinand/John Terry racism case exploded, very quickly followed by Patrice Evra/Luiz Suarez. While Kick It Out were being hammered from pillow to post for not doing enough, for not banning Terry and Suarez for longer periods (things that were entirely out of the organisation’s control), Herman stayed calm, addressed every interview with authority and control and led the organisation through a dark and crucial time expertly.

INSPIRATIONAL FIGURE: Tribute at the Emirates Stadium; below, Troy Townsend with the late Lord Herman Ouseley who was chairman of Kick It Out for 25 years, which he founded to tackle racism and discrimination in football

“His aura lit up any room, so when I did finally get to meet him I wanted to absorb everything I could” He would always mention to me, becoming the Chief Executive of the Commission for Racial Equality enabled him to have power, and month’s later he became one of the founders of Let’s Kick Racism Out of Football. It was at a time that football was still

in denial of its racism problem. Black players were not being protected, Black fans were cautious to attend matches in fear, even if they were related to the players. Back then clubs and their owners would not support this new campaign group. Herman could easily have given up and said it was not going to work and put all his resources toward the political agenda but anyone that came across this man, would quickly understand he was a fighter. He fought many a battle but if he was told ‘you cannot or you’re not wanted here’, it would not deter him one bit. Away from the limelight, he was an elegant and graceful man. One I had the privilege of calling quite simply

Herman and with that he became my unofficial mentor. He helped me navigate the football industry, to understand what challenges I would face as my role became more prominent. When to challenge, in what way to challenge, to show respect but stay true to my beliefs because of those lived experiences we all have and even when to leave a battle for another day. I conducted one of the first interviews for the organisation at 6.30am on a Sunday and just after finishing at 6.45am, Herman sent me a text congratulating me. That was the measure of the man that he would even be tuning in at that time. Once he stepped down, we stayed in touch, and he would also send me

messages supporting and imploring me to continue to fight the good fight for the many who needed me. I honestly believe he saw a bit of himself in me. His passing has left an immeasurable impact and though I too have left Kick It Out, I will never stop advocating for the many who do not have the prominence to tackle racism and discrimination. It is so important that I, and the many others, keep his memory and legacy alive. Rest well Herman and thank you for everything you have done for the game and me personally. You stood tall when others turned the other cheek, and we are so grateful for your presence inside the game and beyond.

NOVEMBER 2024 THE VOICE | 47

Sport

High five! Groups bring net benefits for Black players SERVING UP SUCCESS: Black Tennis Collective players and officials with LTA development partner Alexis Simms, centre

New Black Tennis Collective set to become a winning combination. By Rodney Hinds

ECENTLY, the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton became the backdrop for the inaugural meeting of the Black Tennis Collective. Timed to coincide with October’s Black History Month, five pioneering organisations from the Black tennis community came together to form the Black Tennis Collective – the start of a powerful collaboration with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA). At the heart of the Black Tennis Collective lies a shared commitment to enhance Black visibility and participation in tennis across Britain offering valuable insights and perspectives from the Black community. The Black Tennis Collective is comprised of five trailblazing organisations, each bringing a distinct approach to promoting Black talent and excellence in tennis: l Tennis Black List: A platform celebrating Black and mixed Black heritage role models in tennis both on and off the tennis court. Through the platform, stories of representation, resilience and triumph are celebrated and championed. l Black Spin Global: Known for its

insightful podcasts and interviews, this platform shines a spotlight on Black professionals in tennis, amplifying their stories and achievements. l Black Tennis Mentors UK: Plays a vital role in supporting Black tennis leaders in the UK, creating opportunities for future enthusiasts and fostering

connections between leaders and learners. l Back It: a mobile tennis club in association with Black Tennis Mentors UK aimed at fostering community and infusing culture into the courts. Back It brings tennis directly to Black communities, creating accessible and

inclusive opportunities for everyone to engage in tennis activities and competition. l SheCanServe: A female-led initiative that empowers women through tennis, creating supportive environments for connection, learning and growth. The LTA insist that they are keen to

collaborate with a dynamic network that actively promotes and champions Black visibility and participation in British tennis. Alexis Simms, the LTA’s EDI Development Partner, who has been instrumental in building relationships with the groups involved, said on the partnership: “The short-term goal is to foster collaboration among leading voices in the black tennis community. Long-term, we aim for the Black Tennis Collective to become a trusted ally to the LTA, advocating for greater inclusion and helping shape future initiatives.” Simms emphasised the profound impact of Black visibility in tennis: “Black representation in tennis is vital for breaking stereotypes, empowering individuals, and inspiring future generations. By promoting diversity, we create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.” The LTA have already seen success in promoting inclusivity through their collaboration with the LGBTQ+ community and a close relationship with Pride in Tennis – and hope that the Black Tennis Collective will yield similar results. The partnership signals the start of a new era in British tennis, where increased Black visibility can inspire future generations and help redefine what it means to excel in the sport.

ATHLETES TO STRIKE GOLD IN NEW DIAMOND CASH DEAL By Rodney Hinds

TOP names in track and field will benefit after news that The Wanda Diamond League will increase athlete prizemoney to the highest levels in the series’ history from next season. The likes of sprint sensations Julien Alfred from St Lucia, Briton Dina Asher-Smith and Thea LaFond, who won gold in the women’s triple jump marking Dominica’s first Olympic medal of any colour, are all set to cash in on the new initiative. Following a decision by the Diamond League General Assembly, the total amount of prizemoney paid over the course of the season will increase to $9,240,000 in 2025. The new total is almost a third

STAR TURN: Julien Alfred higher than the sum paid during the pandemic-affected period of 2021-2024, and the highest ever since the Diamond League’s launch in 2010. Including promotional fees for top athletes, a total of around $18 million will be paid to athletes

in total over the course of the 2025 season, with many more millions being invested in athlete services such as travel and transport, accommodation and medical and physio provision. Under the new structure, the total prizemoney awarded per meeting will be $500,000 at each of the 14 regular series meetings, and $2,240,000 at the Wanda Diamond League Final. The total prizemoney per discipline will be between $30,000 and $50,000 at the series meetings and between $60,000 and $100,000 at the final. As always, prizemoney is entirely gender-equal, with exactly the same rates for male and female athletes. The increase will also apply to all 32 Diamond disciplines,

benefiting athletes across the full diversity of track and field. The increase in prizemoney reflects the Wanda Diamond League’s position as athletics’ premier one-day series and the backbone of the outdoor season for the world’s biggest stars. With 15 meetings in 13 countries on four different continents, the series provides elite athletes from across the globe with a chance to compete at the highest level from April to September. Since 2010, the series and its meetings have invested an estimated $270 million in athletes: $180 million in promotional fees and prize money, and around $90 million in athlete services. As it enters its 16th season in 2025, the series will continue to provide the best conditions

possible and highest level services for athletes in all disciplines. “The Wanda Diamond League remains committed to rewarding the athletes more, whilst at the same time ensuring the long-term sustainability of the series, so it continues to provide vital competition to the athletes for many more years to come,” said Petr Stastny, the CEO of Diamond League AG. “In an ever-changing landscape in the sports, media and entertainment world, we have always been on the forefront of innovation in our sport of athletics. Featuring a total of 32 disciplines over each season, we provide the world’s best athletes the opportunity to compete at the highest possible level.”

48 | THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2024

Sport

LORD HERMAN OUSELEY: THE ULTIMATE DRIVER FOR CHANGE

My boss, my motivator, my friend – Troy Townsend pays tribute to the man who advocated that football tackled racism and discrimination p46