The Voice Black Business Guide 2020-21 by thevoicemediagroup

2020-21

ISSUE 3 UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

The black farmer Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones Talks about building his brand

Swiss

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s use the power of our Black Pound

Natalie Joseph Lingerie for a full figure

Mother and daughter An amazing journey

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Black Pages Directory Connecting you with the Black and Caribbean Business Community

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE LONDON

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CONTENTS 4

Black business update Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE, FRSA, FKCL, FSGCW

Support black businesses for community growth

Amazing achievement Drip Punch

The Black farmer Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones Talks about building his brand

Swiss: “Let’s use the power of our Black Pound”

LDN Creates South London creative hub

Do South Different by Design

Natalie Joseph Lingerie for full a figures

Mother and daughter An amazing journey

Mamma Gwenny’s Keeping a legacy alive

The Voice Media Group (GV Media Group Ltd) Telephone: 020 7510 0340 Website: www.voice-online.co.uk Facebook @voicenews | Twitter @thevoicenews | Instagram @thevoicenewspaper To advertise: 020 7510 0340 or email: advertising@thevoicemediagroup.co.uk To share your stories: newsdesk@thevoicemediagroup.co.uk Supporting businesses in our community for 38 years! Get in touch with us and share your stories!

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

020 has proven to be the worst of times, but also the best of times. The worst of times because, never in my 40 years of being an entrepreneur, have I seen such disarray in government, private and public sectors, small and large businesses, with fear in everyone’s eyes and voice. COVID-19 and subsequent Lockdown, the effect of which we are still feeling now is unprecedented, since the World Wars. The best of times, because never has so many people found a new way of working, pivoting from one business to another, or a new version of their old business. These extraordinary times have brought to life the meaning of “Necessity Is The Mother Of All Creation”. It was necessary to change, and many businesses got creative: it’s now become the age of IOT…Internet Of Things, with everything and everyone now on the internet. But what of those who could not pivot? During the first round of Lockdown, businesses began to collaborate, and mine was no different, so a long-time relationship came back into play. The Voice Newspaper, along with WinTrade Global Women Entrepreneurs Network saw the need and a solution to support Black Businesses who were and still are at the frontline with dealing with the effects of Lockdown, and we wanted to do something to help. During the height of the pandemic earlier this year in June, the Minister for Business Nadhim Zahawi MP chose WinTrade Global Talks and The Voice Newspaper to share vital information in accessing government initiatives with the Black Business Community in the UK. Over a thousand black businesses answered the call. Eight hundred and fifty of them from across the country directly engaged with the webinar. Against the much-publicised backdrop of the government’s Windrush scandal, this unique engagement, in sheer numerical terms, was a big success. Whether the event itself lead to increased take-up of the government’s mainstream policy to support the wider business community during the pandemic, by black businesses is an answer we will undoubtedly seek. However, from our survey generated from the feedback of those in attendance alone, indicate at the very least, black businesses felt better informed of the government’s policy as a result.

Black Business Update

“from our survey generated from the feedback of those in attendance alone, indicate at the very least, black businesses felt better informed of the government’s policy”

In June, as part of his presentation, the Minister promised a follow-up. And as the government are engaging in discussions on how to prepare the country for the inevitable second wave, we felt a timely Part II of the webinar was necessary, during Black History Month. The timing is perfect to understand what the latest government thinking is about the support it intends to give to business as COVID extends. Nadhim Zahawi MP agreed to return to

WinTrade Global Talks for live engagement with black businesses across the UK, on October 14th and was joined by a senior civil servant Justin Placide, Assistant Director for Business, Investment and Growth. Whilst Part II was also well attended, Government still wants to know: • Is there more that we want the government to do in terms of sharing information on the

LONDON

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Minister For Business Nadhim Zahawi MP financial support packages available to business as a result of COVID? • Could we benefit from a more formalised dialogue with the government during this time? • Have you or a business you know benefited from any of the support previously shared? • If not – what stopped you from applying or receiving the support? • Do you have any questions or wish to know

information about the funding policies distribution thus far,? Black businesses play a critical role in the make-up of the British economy and the fabric of our society. Thank all of you who attended our last conversation with the Minister. If you missed it you can request the replay and all the information contained therein by email from: info@wintradeglobal.com

Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE FRSA, FKCL, FSGCW

You are also welcome to email us: info@wintradeglobal.com Or download your Government support e-book here http://bit.ly/GOV_COVID_ BAME_BIZ_FUNDING

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESSES FOR COMMUNITY GROWTH It’s estimated that the spending power of UK black consumers is £300 billion and the question that is often asked is how much of that is spent within our community? Two years ago, The Voice published The Voice Black Business Guide magazine to highlight self-sustained small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders across the United Kingdom. Many of these businesses are run by unsung heroes and heroines, and their products and services contribute significantly to the UK economy. The Voice will continue to highlight the valuable contribution that these businesses are making, not only by generating wealth for the community and revenue through taxes for the economy, but in job creation as well. According to figures released in 2018, more than 55,000 businesses have been launched with the help of government start-up loans since 2012, creating more than 66,000 jobs. Significantly more than twenty percent of these enterprises are black owned. With the global pandemic Covid-19 adversely affecting our lives and the livelihood of black business owners and their families, it is even more crucial that they get our support. The Voice is calling on everyone to consciously support black businesses now more than ever. This Voice Black Business Guide is important as it gives these businesses a platform to showcase their many products and services to a wider audience and enable people to find them. Potential customers in Leeds can be aware of black business establishments in London and use their services. Likewise, someone in the Midlands can buy from a supplier in Kent or other parts of the country. This third edition of The Voice Black Business Guide covers businesses in a wider range of sectors – from the hair and beauty industry to health and wellness. When the guide was first published in October 2018, it was followed by the first Voice Black Business Fair at Lambeth Town Hall in Brixton, south London. The event attracted over 2,000 visitors who were eager to support black businesses and purchase their gifts in time for Christmas. The second staging of the Business Fair took place in December 2019 at the newly refurbished Fairfield Halls, in Croydon and many of the businesses featured in this guide also exhibited at the show. Unfortunately, we are not able to host the Business Fair this year, but hopefully it will be back in 2021! Spending your money with black-owned businesses will create wealth in our community and pave the way for future generations.

Black Pages Directory Connecting you with the Black and Caribbean Business Community

The Voice Black Business Guide 2020-2021 is available in print and as a digital download from the Voice website at www.voice-online.co.uk

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Sustainable business built on ethical sourcing, innovation, empowerment

aturally tribal skincare was born from Founder Shalom Lloyd’s personal experience. In 2014 after four IVF cycles “I was blessed with the birth of my twins”. Son, Joshua had “miserable eczema – scratch ‘till you bleed’ irritation” Not able to bear the idea of putting chemical emollients and steroids on her babies’ skin, as a qualified pharmacist she knew there was another solution. “I understand the enormous value of medical treatments; however, our skin is a huge exchange organ which absorbs a lot of what we put on it. So, when you think about it, what we put on ourselves, and our family’s skin, should be just as important as what we eat.” Looking to her African heritage for inspiration, she recalled recipes containing all-natural ingredient. Experimenting in her kitchen using high quality Shea Butter as a main base, Shalom stumbled across the right formulation and within three days of applications, Joshua’s skin was cleared. Shalom who is currently taking part in the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator in Milton Keynes shared the following with us. Q: What inspired you to become an entrepreneur? A: I consider myself a 50/50 nurture entrepreneur. I was born to entrepreneurial parents, have always had the desire to discover, create, innovate, build, change and solve. At the same time, I have learned and acquired

care products for skin conditions. Achieving this whilst at the same time changing lives and protecting the natural environment from which these unique ingredients originate. Our vision is to become a sustainable business built on ethical sourcing, innovation, empowerment and love for our planet, on a mission to become the leading indie skincare brand that inspires everyone to love their skin, naturally! Q: What positive impact does the business have on your community? A: Our business goes beyond the Naturally Tribal range of skincare products and now gives us the chance to make real difference, improving the lives of women in Africa who make the high-quality Shea used in our products. Q: What have you learned from being on the accelerator programme? A: I have learned the meaning of one of my favourite proverbs - “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” This is what the Accelerator does! We are not alone, we have the support of Accelerator managers as well as a community of cross-industry fellow entrepreneurs. I am pleased that it is open to myself and my team. n a number of entrepreneurial skills along the way. Q: Do you have a mission? A: To transform natural ingredients into amazing products by ethically sourcing organic seeds, tree nuts, oils and turning them into innovative and enriching premium skin-

Find Naturally Tribal at: www.naturallytribalgroup.com Facebook: Naturally Tribal Twitter: @NaturallyTribal Instagram: @naturallytribal LinkedIn: Naturally Tribal

n Helping the UK’s entrepreneurs get their business off the ground and thrive in their communities is central to the bank’s strategy. We want to help more people start and grow their business than ever before, helping them achieve success and contribute to a strong national economy. Now more than ever, it is vital to have the right tools and support businesses and entrepreneurs at all stages (whether you’re just starting out or an established business looking to make a change). It’s free and you don’t even have to be a NatWest customer to join. Business Builder is entirely self serve and can be accessed 24/7 through the dedicated online portal. It was designed to support entrepreneurs and business owners to upskill and develop themselves and their business at a time and pace that suits them. Users can access a blended programme of support consisting of three key pillars: Digital Learning, Online Community and Wrap Around Events.

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

“WE BELIEVE IN MAKING PREMIUM QUALITY PUNCHES, MADE WITH FRESHLY PRESSED JUICES”

An amazing achievement and feeling

hree friends from North West London (Harlesden), had a vision to take freshly squeezed fruits, blend them with exciting Caribbean flavours and package them in recyclable plastic bottles. No doubt that it sounds pretty straightforward? – Well the creators of Drip Punch will tell you that so far it has been anything but!. Yet the best part about the Drip Punch story is that when first made available to the public, the product sold a record 200 bottles in 23 minutes, approximately one bottle every

11.5 seconds, wow that’s some going. Drip Punch is a small beverage manufacturing company that aims to make a big impact making artisanal cold pressed fruit punches. When Joshua (16), Jonathan (15) and Kevon (14) were in secondary school, they worked over the summer of 2018 to create their own fruit punch. Based on Josh-

ua’s Grandmothers authentic recipe, the three boys wanted to manufacture a quality drinks product for their friends and family to enjoy. “We believe in making premium quality punches, made with freshly pressed juices for unique freshness and real flavour; whilst paying homage to our Caribbean herit-

age” Josh, Drip Punch CEO. The boys immediately started to manufacture Drip Punch drinks during their summer holidays from a commercial kitchen, donated in – kind by the City Mission Youth Club. The boys then began to sell the drinks at local food markets and pre-Carnival events in the summer of 2018 and it was at one of these pre carnival events that the sale of just over 200 bottles in 23 minutes took place, it was an amazing achievement and feeling. n https://drippunch.com

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

The right work life balance

ince making the decision to leave her employed role, Clara has managed to achieve what many would require a lifetime to do. Motivated by the need to find the right work life balance, she set up her own commercial cleaning business, ‘Gemstone Cleaning Services’. Through hard work, attention to detail and a single-minded focus on customer service excellence Clara grew the business from domestic to primarily offices and commercial building cleaning. “At a time when I was a single mother, I found myself in a position where my job was demanding and taking me away from my children. For me the price of working for others was at the cost of time with my family. It became clear to me that this cost was much higher than I was being compensated for in wages. So, I decided to start my own business to allow me to have the right work life balance, and still have a successful career. It was a major decision and a huge leap of faith on my part

to stop everything I was doing and focus all my efforts into my vision”. Today Gemstone Commercial cleaning now provides cleaning services for locations as varied as GP practices, Chiropractic centres, general offices to film studios including BBC and SKY TV production sets, all over London. Clara has not stopped there. She

has recently added a property inventory aspect to her services, called ‘Gemstone inventory’. Clara understands that growth can never stop in an ever-changing business environment and sees change as an opportunity to

be expected and embraced. Clara is acutely aware of the importance of giving back. She uses her platform as a Public Speaker to teach people ways in which to embrace their vision and nurture their goals. n

It’s our mission at Gemstone Cleaning to provide you with exceptional cleaning services and solutions.

Welcome to Gemstone Cleaning Services

W. www.gemstonecleaning.co.uk E. info@gemstonecleaning.co.uk T. 0203 8131912 / 01923 948899

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

When Pauline Miller, the MD of Personal Touch Funerals opened her funeral arranging business in 2010, it was viewed a little cautiously by many to begin with. It could hardly be believed that all services needed for not just the funeral service and day, but also the evening reception could all be booked in one place; with just one call or visit her unique One-StopShop funeral arranging service Now entering it’s 10th year, and standing proudly in Acre Lane, Brixton, the company has truly established itself as one the premier funeral services serving South London and beyond. Personal Touch offers a vast range of services and products that compliment each other nicely fitting the company’s strapline ‘We can arrange EVERYTHING for a beautiful funeral day’ Not only do they offer all the traditional funeral services but others such as funeral stationery, flowers, videos, photography and streaming both for the church and the graveside which is in huge demand

now with the current restrictions in place on numbers that can attend funeral day. Says Pauline, “our range of services has grown from strength to strength and the funeral video streaming and our latest venture redecorating old floral bases from the graveside in a choice of silk or fresh flowers where the flowers have died, is gathering speed as many place their orders to ensure their loved one’s graves look beautiful for the coming festive period. To find out more about Personal Touch Funerals visit their website on www.personaltouchfunerals.co.uk or call their offices on +44 207 326 0860

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

The Black Farmer

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones talks building his brand, success in the black community and taking on supermarket giants

ILFRED EMMANUEL-JONES isn’t just any black farmer, he is The Black Farmer. Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, Emmanuel-Jones came to the UK as part of the Windrush generation. While he’d spent the first few years of his life in rural Jamaica, Emmanuel-Jones’ first farming experience was hands on cultivating an allotment his father had in Small Heath in Birmingham, where his family settled once they arrived in England. It was this experience that first ignited Emmanuel-Jones’ desire to one day own his own farm. “Because we were quite poor, there were 11 of us in my family, my father had an allotment and it was my job as the oldest boy to look after this allotment.

“I loved it so much, it was then. When I was around the age of 11, that I decided that one day I would like to have my own farm,” he says. But it wouldn’t be until 35 years later that he was able to realise this dream. Something Emmanuel-Jones only managed because he managed to earn enough money to do so. And while his rags-to-riches success story is inspirational, he doesn’t want other black people to face the same barriers he did. He is calling on institutions that own land, such as the Church and universities to actively facilitate the process to enable more black and minority ethnic people to get access to farming land. “I’m saying to all of these in-

stitutions part of your social responsibility is to say to your land agents; a certain percentage – let’s say 10 per cent of the land you’re managing for us should be leased to rented out to people from diverse communities... it shouldn’t that you’ve got to be rich in order to actually get access to land,” he says. Raising the money to purchase land isn’t the only obstacle aspiring black farmer’s face in Britain. Operating in a sector dominated by white people, Emmanuel-Jones was confronted with concerns from his family members when they heard about his plans to plant roots in Devon, and he says locals suspected he was secretly growing cannabis. “The moment you operate outside a stereotype, it confuses people. They think there’s some sort of negative motive behind it and I’ve always been of the belief that the key thing in life is not to be distracted by other people’s prejudices or other people’s concerns,” he says. “If I ever stopped and thought about what people thought, I would still be in Small Heath in Birmingham.” Emmanuel-Jones doesn’t mince his words. It’s this ambitious attitude combined with his independence that saw him take on the major supermarkets, challenging them to stock his new range of sausages for Black History Month. The range or jerk pork and chicken sausages feature the faces of inspiring figures from British black history. One pack features nurse Mary Seacole, the others feature first world war veteran and civil

rights campaigner George Arthur Roberts and Lincoln Orville Lynch, a distinguished RAF air gunner who served in the Second World War. “This year I wrote to all of the big chief executives and all the big supermarkets and said this is the time that you lot need to do something to demonstrate that you are supporting the change. You have black customers shopping in your supermarkets, we want to demon-

“The moment you operate outside a stereotype, it confuses people” strate that actually you care about their pound as much as you care about somebody else’s,” he says. Sainsbury’s, Co-op Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, Budgen’s and Ocado all agreed to stock the special sausages. By nature of the product, the sausages have been placed in aisles where they are likely to be seen by a cross-section of supermarket shoppers, not just those interested in Caribbean produce. Emmanuel-Jones’ says he always intended to steer away from creating products that would be deemed “ethnic” from when he started Continued on page 24 u

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

STAND OUT AND MAKE YOUR BRUNCH With the wealth of brunches out there, how do you stand out and make your brunch event unique? Carib & Co Brunch has an idea how: by combining a tasty culinary experience with enriching and entertaining moments to remember. The Carib and Co Brunch, last held at BOXPARK, was a successful evening of conversation, entertainment, art and marketplace for Black-owned British Brands. The Carib and Co brand consists of three concepts: Carib and Co Shop – an online platform for sellers to showcase their products. Carib and Co Card – a digital card for consumers to access special discounts. Carib and Co Podcast – a digital audio platform to educate and empower listeners. Founded by secondary school teacher Jade Weir-Reid, the Carib & Co brand came from her desire of bringing the community together, supporting success and talent while also providing a platform for up and coming and established small businesses.

CARIB AND CO

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INNOVATIVE AND OUTSTANDING TEACHING The Eden SDA School is a co-educational independent faith school providing a stimulating, holistic and transforming education, where we seek to harmoniously develop the whole child, building strengths and patiently fortifying weaknesses. We offer a unique learning journey for children from the age of 2 to 18. Eden was founded in September 1995 by our award winning head teacher, Mrs Laura Osei. We focus on not only improving our students academically but more importantly, emotionally and spiritually – growing our students’ self-belief, self-knowledge and understanding that they are special, unique, made in the image of God with a distinct purpose and role to contribute to our society. Through innovative and outstanding teaching, very small classes, the attainment of wisdom and knowledge coupled with character development and the promotion of independent thinking, we are enabled to drive our vision to educate our pupils for eternity. Our school is a warm, friendly and vibrant learning community where our pupils’ creativity is nurtured through music, drama, dance and the creative

arts; their life skills cultivated and honed and where academic excellence is facilitated and celebrated. Great results, character building, lasting friendships, a healthier lifestyle and a bright future will give each child The Eden Experience!

THE EDEN SCHOOL

ochelle White was inspired to start her own PR company due to the lack of creative output she experienced when working in-house. Thinking she could do better she started Rochelle White PR in 2015 and focused on offering a more creative, rebellious and personal touch. Their ethos is to only work with brands they love, ensuring these are brands they would recommend, buy from and use themselves. In 2017 they re-branded as Rochelle White Agency, and over the past 5 years have worked with start-ups, national and international brands “we are in a place that we are levelling up and going to the next stage in our business” Rochelle is currently taking part in the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator in Milton Keynes and shared the following with us.

a man’s game) and deliver strong results. Q: Do you feel it’s important to have an impact on the local community? A: Before COVID-19 we were working on an apprenticeship scheme to bring in new fresh talent. Although COVID-19 has put a temporary delay on our plans moving forward we will be offering work experience and taking on apprentices.

Q: What is your business? A: We are a full service creative marketing and PR agency. We work within the consumer, lifestyle, music and entertainment industries. We specialise in working with brands to tell their story, build their profile in a creative way. We are communications rebels. Q: What’s your USP? A: PR and Marketing with a personal touch and rebellious

vibes. We’re rebels with a cause! Q: Why did you start your company and what is your ultimate goal? The why was to create an agency that cared more about the clients and not just numbers. The goal is to be one of the go-to agencies for creative campaigns, marketing and PR. We want to be one of the leading agencies working within the music and festival sector (which is currently

You can find Rochelle White at www.rochellewhiteagency.com and https://www. instagram.com/rochellewhiteagency/ and https:// twitter.com/RWA_Agency.

THE THE NORTH SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

‘Love a high end look but a low price tag shop Shaksboutique’ W: http://www.shaksboutique.co.uk T: 07716637685 E: info@shaksboutique.co.uk Download Shaksboutique mobile App available on: Google Play & App Store FREE Instagram/Facebook/Pinterest/Twitter: @shaksboutique

SHAKS BOUTIQUE We are a mother and daughter duo based in the East side of London. The concept of Shaksboutique came to life as my daughter (Shakira) has an eye for fashion and has experience in the modelling industry, whilst my (Alexandra’s) nurturing traits as well as interest and passion to encourage my children, in order for them to fulfil their dreams, created this beautiful business. Together we are a tag team supplying women of all ages with the latest fashion and trends, whether it be clothes or accessories, we aim to promote confidence, enhance outer beauty and provide comfortability, we have something for everyone. OUR BRAND Our mission is to empower unique, confident women, to ensure you feel great in your body! By bringing to you, World-Wide forward-thinking fashion trends, to which new items are added on a regular basis! Our aim is to equip all women with on trend garments, that will meet all aspects of their lifestyles at affordable prices.

SHAKS BOUTIQUE

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Swiss: ‘Let’s use the pow

as thousands of people across the UK have been supporting Black Pound Day ( first Saturday of every month). The event’s founder Swiss tells The Voice about his vision for the event and how he sees it’s future

the number one trending topic on Twitter in the UK. Several businesses also shared on social media how they had experienced their biggest growth in sales this year following the day. Black Pound Day is now set to become a regular event in a bid to

For Swiss however, now is the right time for the black community to take action on it. “I first conceived the idea about 12 years ago” he says. “I had a passing thought about us galvanising ourselves and pouring back into our community economical-

“WHO MADE this product?” “What materials were used?” “Who is profiting from it?” These are just a few of the questions often asked by conscientious consumers mindful of a company’s impact on the environment or the way it treats it staff. However, for an increasing number of buyers who are thinking about these wider issues, another important question is also being asked: “Is this a black-owned business?” In the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests across the world that followed the death of George Floyd in May many have been thinking about new, effective ways to challenge racial inequality in all areas of life. One of the most prominent people to do is So Solid Crew’s Swiss.

Financial boost

He is the founder of Black Pound Day, an event aimed at celebrating black-owned businesses and giving the black community a financial and emotional boost, after the anger at racial inequality in the UK evident at the protests which followed Floyd’s death.

Support

Thousands of people across the country will be backing blackowned businesses as part of Black Pound Day The inaugural Black Pound Day attracted support from high profile figures such as chart-topping singer Jess Glynne among others. And #BlackPoundDay becoming

VISION: Black Pound Day founder Swiss

encourage more Britons to buy products or services from blackowned businesses and invest in them.

‘Economic activism’

The idea of supporting black businesses is a form of economic activism that has long been discussed in the black community.

ly. It was a strong inspirational thought I shared with my friend’s older brother and that’s where it stayed. “It had always been lingering and I’m still surprised that no one actually came up with the idea of having a day where we’re all thinking about going to support our own businesses and using that

as a way to galvanise our community in thought and action.

Inspiration

“I wanted to do my part to create something positive out of this. I followed the inspiration I as given and here we are, many people getting behind this movement. I’m just so happy that people have been open to it. Black Pound Day does what it says on the tin, it’s a very simple concept to understand. “It’s a day where we unify all cultures, not just black, we utilise the emotional energy of recent months and turn that into an economic power as opposed to allowing those emotions to come and go as we know emotions do and nothing comes of it.” Was he surprised at the positive reaction to the first Black Pound Day? “I was very surprised. Anyone would be after putting their own brainchild out there and seeing it stir up so much interest in the community. Apart from songs I don’t think I’ve had an idea that has stirred up the emotions and the forward thinking of my community in that way.

The day can help our community shape an economic agenda. When we have control of our economic agenda we can move from a position of power we can make decisions from a position of power and achieve effective outcomes. Economic unity means we can effect change politically. This is really important.

SWISS, FOUNDER OF BLACK POUND DAY

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

wer of our Black Pound’ “Many of my peers in the industry and celebrities such as Jess Glynne got behind it. Jess shared her love for our community and despite a bit of backlash she stood firm in what she was doing.” Swiss continues: “She understood that while it’s important to support all businesses as equally as you can, not just those from your own ethnic background, who you’re shopping with and how you’re distributing your money is important in the multicultural society. From celebrities to people on the ground we all feel the same.” As much as Black Pound Day highlights issues of systemic inequality in the UK, it also holds up a mirror to the black community. Data compiled by the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) revealed that the spending power of Britain’s black community is worth an estimated £300 billion. However according to experts such as Daniel Lister, founder of My Black Market, African Caribbeans spend as much as 95 per cent of their income outside the community. Black businesses are becoming an increasingly important part of the economy. According to government figures more than 55,000 businesses have been helped to launch businesses with the support of government backed Start Up loans since 2012 creating more than 66,000 jobs. An impressive 1 in 5 of these enterprises are black owned. And a Voice analysis of recently published figures from the Federation of Small Businesses show that African Caribbean owned businesses contribute as much as £4 billion to the UK economy. But sadly many members of the black community do not know about them. And even after being discovered

black business owners often say they do not get the support they deserve.

Impact

It perhaps for this reason that hundreds of black-owned businesses have warmly welcomed

stall situated near Arsenal’s Emirates stadium for over ten years. The Jerk Kitchen won hundreds of dedicated repeat customers before moving into other areas of business including producing a range of sauces called Lesley’s, named after her mother.

adverts to post on the actual day. But I also took the time to research other black businesses and I was amazed at about how many there are out there.” Dinning continues: “Then, at quarter to five in the morning on Black Pound Day, we got our first

BACKING: Natalie Dinning who runs The Jerk Kitchen was among the business owners who received a significant boost from Black Pound Day (Pic: Kimi Gill for Islington Faces) the impact that Black Pound Day has had. Among those who have spoken of its impact is London-based company The Jerk Kitchen. Run by Natalie Dinning the company was started by her father Neil in 2006. The family business ran a food

“When I first heard about it I was intrigued” says Dinning. “I did a little bit of research, read what Swiss was saying and I was really excited about. But we didn’t really know what was going to happen as a result of the day. “The night before I didn’t go to bed because I was creating some

order. I was amazed and to be honest, that day was a whirlwind for me. I was either answering a message on social media or replying to someone reposting us which was amazing. Continued on page 52 u

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

ALL THE SERVICES YOU NEED IN ONE PLACE! Identifying the need for a more personalised approach to human development Martha Da Costa-Sherwood founded Da Cosme Group. The company provides a variety of personal, professional, and business development services offering practical solutions to lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most common challenges. Da Cosme Groups empowers individuals to take charge of their life both personally and professionally. Helping people increase their self-awareness and unlock untapped potential, develop better relationships with their friends, family and colleagues or improve their career prospects and outcomes. The consulting arm works with business owners, entrepreneurs, and organisations to create a more efficient, competitive and engagement workforce. Da Cosme Finance Da Cosme Finance provides access to the best financial advice and guidance at an affordable price. Da Cosme Education works with students, parents, teachers, and schools to secure the best outcomes for children and young people. Da Cosme Group are specialists in human capital development because they put people at the heart of everything they do; this means we will do the same for you.

DA COSME GROUP

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

We are a business that believes in community. With over 20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience serving our diverse communities throughout the United Kingdom, we have come to know that community is the hearbeat of what we do. Our aims have always been to listen to what our clients need and, as best as possible, provide the services and expertise that are necessary to meet your needs. Despite the amount of changes, we have faced recently, our ethos is exactly the same. Therefore, having listened to your concerns and understood your needs, we, at Sterling Winshaw Solicitors, are proud to offer our services in the following areas. v Crime

v Commercial v Family

v Housing & Property v Immigration

v Wills & Probate Whether your relationship has broken down and you want to maintain contact with your children or you are in social housing and the conditions of your home are below what is acceptable we can be there for you to help you understand your rights and how to go about establishing those rights. Perhaps the pandemic has you thinking about your own mortality and want to draft a will, or you want to see the options you have of brining a love-one to the UK, we can navigate you through the law and advise you as to your best options. Whatever your legal enquiry may be, drop a call or an email and we can arrange a free consultation with you to explore all your options. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help. Rasheed Sarpong Director of Sterling Winshaw Solicitors.

Telephone: 02036438962 Website: www.sterlingwinshaw.com Email: info@sterlingwinshaw.com 104 Atlas Business Centre, Oxgate Lane, London, NW2 7HJ

We consider the dealing of a case as a partnership between ourselves and our clients and this leads to a more effective and purpose-driven working relationship

For more details see page 20 u

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Shining a light on the UK’s diverse business community At NatWest we are committed to ensuring everyone has equal opportunity to start and grow a business, regardless of their gender and ethnic background. We know one of the barriers facing aspiring entrepreneurs from ethnically diverse backgrounds is the lack of visible, relatable role-models – successful industry leaders that look like them. This is why we are actively using our events and content platforms to showcase businesses run by black, Asian and Minority Ethnic entrepreneurs, and speaking to experts about how strong networks can be the key towards creating a more diverse environment where anyone with a great business idea is connected with opportunities to thrive. Scan the QR code to read the interview, or search NatWest Business Hub

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WORKING WITH YOU If there was ever a year that could be called the ‘year of change’ it would be this year. It would be right now. As with everyone in our society, we at Sterling Winshaw Solicitors, have had to adapt and change to the ever-unusual environment created my local and global issues. From implementing more technology to meet the needs of our clients, to providing services that have become more and more important as the effects of the coronavirus are evidenced in every aspect of our lives. We have observed and listened to our client’s needs and changed not only the way we do things but the services we provide. Our aim has always been to try and meet the demands that you, our clients, make upon us. With that in mind, we have expanded our scope of services to cover Housing and Property matters, Immigration, Family, Crime and Wills & Probate. If you are facing the breakdown of a relationship due to allegations of domestic violence or need to make child contact arrangements, we can help you navigate through the processes needed. Perhaps the pandemic has got you thinking about your own mortality and you wish to get your affairs in order, we can help draft

your will. Maybe you have fallen foul of new restriction laws following the pandemic and need help to understand your rights. We are here to help. If you are having any issues about housing from wishing to buy or sell, matters of rent arrears or even claims for housing disrepair, we are available to assist you as much as we can. Pick up the phone, drop us an email or arrange a video conference and we will be more than happy to discuss where we can help you. Rasheed Sarpong Director of Sterling Winshaw Solicitors. 104 Atlas Business Centre Oxgate Lane London NW2 7HJ T: 020 3643 8962 E: info@sterlingwinshaw.com www.sterlingwinshaw.com

STERLING WINSHAW

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

J.D. Okoro is a London-based author of entertaining picture books for children EAR OLDS Y -7 4 R O F S IE R O T S T terpillar, is about a plucky ca N’S BOOKS ARE GREA

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JDOkoro.com oroAuthor / PA@ Ok JD @ : er itt Tw more information:

/ www.JDOkoro.co

Author Name: JD Okoro @JDOkoroAuthor www.JDOkoro.com PA@JDOkoro.com Available now via Waterstones and all good bookshops: “The Scruffapillar” and “Beetle Reich”

THE SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

FA R M S HOP NOW OP E N USE T H E DISCOU N T CODES BEL OW TO GET U P TO £1 5 OF F A T H E BL AC K FA R M E R S E T B OX DU R I NG O C T OBE R : VOIC E5 - £5 of f a - £5 0 set box VOIC E10 - £10 of f a - £ 75 set box VOIC E1 5 - £1 5 of f a - £10 0 set box

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THE SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

PR ESENTING

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THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Your local Ades Cash & Carry store

des Cash & Carry is one of the largest wholesale/retail specialists in African and Caribbean food and drinks in the UK. Ades has come a long way in 15 years and was officially recognised by the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in 2013 as one of the 1,000 companies to Inspire Britain in recognition of Ades commitment to excellence in the industry. Ades new retail store opened in Salford, Manchester in July in addition to the two London stores in Thamesmead and Charlton. They serve customers ranging from individuals to businesses based locally, nationally, and internationally. Customers are also able to shop online with the Click and Collect

service at www.adesfoods.co.uk. This allows customers to shop in the comfort of their homes and all they have to do is to collect instore. A home delivery service is starting soon for those who live further away. Focusing on their goal to provide customers with the best quality products at affordable prices, Ades has an excellent team of friendly and professional staff who are always available to help. Hurry up and visit Ades, there are lots of offers and amazing discounts in store or online.

Continued from page 11 u

farmer, not spending his time getting muddy in fields but building his Black Farmer brand. His new ventures include the launch of a new Black Farmer online shop, something he says was spurred on by the COVID-19 outbreak. “The reason why it’s the right time to do direct to consumer is because of COVID. Before COVID getting fresh food to people’s house was really difficult because they weren’t in, they were at work or out and about,” Emmanuel-Jones says. And while the online grocery service opens up his products to a new market, he’d like to see the black community support it. “It’s really tough in an online business and what I would like is to get a lot of support from the black community because that is how these things succeed.” Emmanuel-Jones’ hopes to expand don’t stop there. He has a physical flagship farm shop in his sights. “My ultimate ambition is, in the next two years, to have a Black

“I do not want to be categorised as an “ethnic” brand because what happens is that you get stuck down in the bottom shelf...I said the first thing I want to do is I want to be a mainstream British brand – that in itself is a big challenge.” For black entrepreneurs wanting to follow in his footsteps, he has this to say: “Stop waiting for permission. Stop waiting to be accepted, it ain’t going to happen.” He adds that he wants people to realise that there is no helping hand when it comes to bringing about the change that is needed – but he believes there is untapped power potential within the black community. “What I think is that we as black people have to come to terms with is that we have power and we should be utilising that power a lot more than we have done in the past,” he says. Today Emmanuel-Jones describes himself as a gentleman

“There are lots of offers and amazing discounts in store or online”

Farmer bricks and mortar farm shop...they’ll be restaurants, cookery schools, there’ll be an academy. It’ll be a destination site that anybody going down to the southwest will say I must stop off at The Black Farmer.” n Stop off at The Black Farmer’s virtual shop at: https://theblackfarmer.com

WWW.THEBLACKFARMER.COM

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

BUSINESS PEOPLE - THINK BIG, THEN THINK BIGGER! At the start of 2020, Asari St.Hill had such great hopes for the year, just like most business owners. However, his plans were blown off course. But, with a new focus and determination he turned around his business and achieved new personal bests in growth. With a little support, you can also identify opportunities in your marketplace. If you can add great value to your chosen market and refocus your marketing and sales strategies, you can get outstanding results. We have helped so many people during this pandemic to grow their businesses and make more money. Bigger businesses chose 121 coaching but others have chosen mastermind groups; business planning sessions; new marketing plans; and the brave have gone for our 30X Business video challenge. What are you going to do differently in 2021 to ensure your business has its best year yet? Yes, get yourself a great business coach.

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LONDON THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

A New Creative Hub & Co-working space in Croydon.

DN Creates was built during the COVID 19 pandemic by Telixia Inico and Tyrone Rodney. The two saw how much the creative industry suffered during lockdown and decided to create a space for entrepreneurs, start-ups, content creators and trailblazers of all kinds. The hub offers a multi-use photography space, music production studio, podcast and live interview space and an intimate event space that can be used for creative events, workshops, as a breakout area and more. LDN Creates is the new home for visionaries and the village for dreamers. Our mission is to establish a social and professional hub which supports people from all walks of live to explore their creativity and passions while connecting and collaborating. Our passion for the community inspired our vision, it was important that we created a business that would add economic value and boost the Croydon community and surrounding areas. By making our hub accessible to the local authority, schools and charities in Croydon we aim to provide a safe space for young people and create opportunities that will support their educational and professional development. Our vision is to balance the playing field within the creative, education and business industry by providing the support needed for our demographic to succeed within their chosen discipline. n Full Address: HUB I 12, Queensway, Croydon, CR0 4BD Website: www.ldncreates.co.uk Email: ldncreatesuk@gmail.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;new home for visionaries and the village for dreamersâ&#x20AC;?

LONDON THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

EXPLORE THE BEST OF ENGLAND FROM LONDON’S DOORSTEP Chigwell Tours is a family friendly tour operator on London’s doorstep. It is a division of Concept Consulting RMT Ltd providing a range of tours for individual, family, group and corporate clients. Launched during the 2012 London Olympics, by Salome Ahenkora, we offered international visitors tours showcasing the very best of Essex. Today, having gained valuable experience, our tours across the UK targets individuals and groups looking for unique experiences, unique memories. We create tours which build on knowledge and interests and FUN. Nostalgic - Epping & Ongar Vintage bus, steam train ride with afternoon tea Regal - Royal Windsor steam train & castle tour Historic – London walks Nature - scenic countryside and sunset mini cruises In response to the COVID-19 lockdown we created tranquillity forest tours from cycling and golf to leisurely walks through the trees listening to early morning birdsong, all positive steps towards our guest’s wellbeing.

CHIGWELL TOURS

EXPLORE THE BEST OF ENGLAND

BACK IN TI TRAIN S & A ME WITH FTER S NOO TEAM N TEA BIRDSON G&T TOURS THREES GUIDED HAINAULT ROUGH FOREST

from London’s doorstep

HAINAULT FOREST FAMILY ADVENTURES

ADULTS O NLY: BOM BAY SAPP MASTERC HIRE GIN LASS, DIN NE ON THE E STUARY R

CE NAIALEBRATE NEW N ST SANDYLE, 10 DAYEAR Y & SO CIAL S OF SUN ,

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Visit our website to book a tour

www.chigwelltours.co.uk T: +44 (0)208 500 9912 E: bookings@chigwelltours.co.uk

WEEKEND CO & CITY BREAUNTRY KS

THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Lockdown, a broken laptop, a project on Black Wall Street combined with the global outrage about injustices and inequality were the catalysts that led to my 10 year old daughter launching her premium LifeStyle brand RoyalDrip LDN on 27th June. One of her collections, BlackLikeMe Kids, specifically aimed at promoting positive representation for Black Children was an overnight success and threatened to overshadow her entire brand. After some soul searching, the decision was taken to split the business as there was clear demand for Pro Black/Afro Centric products at a wider level than just clothing. On 1st August, BlackToMyRoots, the Pro Black/Conscious/ Afro-Centric Department Store opened for business. With an extensive range of Clothing, Homewares, Accessories and Gifts including greetings cards, all designed or chosen with the sole goal of promoting positive self-identity to the Black Community. RoyalDrip LDN sells premium personalised gifts and clothing to a diverse audience, the Christmas shop is full of licensed products including Premier League Merchandise. BlackToMyRoots caters to the Black Community and sells everything from clothing, phone cases, towels, bedding, cushion covers to candles, sage sticks and natural soaps. The limited edition BlackLikeMe Christmas collection is available until the 5th December. www.RoyalDrip.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ www.BlackToMyRoots.co.uk

BLACK TO MY ROOTS / ROYAL DRIP LONDON

THE THE NORTH SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

NATURAL ESSENTIALS AND REMEDIES Pempamsie was established in 1998 at its base on Brixton Hill, Pempamsie has developed a holistic haven offering an eclectic mix of natural health and beauty products, art and jewellery, books, gifts and much more. We have grown and evolved over the years and have several locations in Brixton, Mitcham, Lewisham and Walthamstow. Here at Pempamsie, we offer Natural products for hair and body, products to assist you with your healthier lifestyle journey as well as health consultations. Whatever your health goals are, why not stop by for your natural essentials and remedies. We have friendly and knowledgeable staff who are here to help. Support your local businesses, come and visit us in-store and explore our vast range of products we have on offer.

PEMPAMSIE

THE MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

lack owned marketplace, tulsans was created to help encourage consumers to support black owned businesses. tulsans is a new online marketplace that has been created to help the African /Caribbean community gain the much needed financial leverage. Consumers from all over the world can buy products from a vibrant community that is made up of vendors from different cultures. We are an inclusive platform with an emphasis of supporting black businesses and we want people from all communities to buy and sell on tulsans. tulsans officially launched their BETA platform on 1st August 2020 which also happened to be the second Black Pound Day in the UK. With already over 1000 registered vendors, tulsans is home to a range of products that include everything from hand-crafted items, bespoke fashion, everyday essentials and so much more. A unique selling point of tulsans is that vendor fees are competitive, making the platform more accessible to businesses of all sizes. tulsans plans to reinvest profits back into the community by working on projects that strengthen the Black buying power and encourages Black entrepreneurship. In the wake of the 2020 pandemic which has negatively impacted us socially and economically; with these effects being felt most acutely in the Black community, Adjei is adamant more than ever, that tulsans must thrive to allow

for entrepreneurs to create multiple streams of income, the great thing about tulsans is that you can also sell your vintage & pre loved items. Founder Javan Adjei says “For our community to grow, we need to work together.” tulsans was created to bring about tangible change, increase opportunities and promote economic growth. The ‘t’ in tulsans remains lowercase as the business wants to “work towards putting the capital back into [our] community, that is the Black community” The name tulsans was inspired by the Black wall street of Tulsa, Oklahoma, where one of the wealthiest Black communities was formed. Every business in this community mattered and this powerful sentiment is one that is of high importance to the tulsans family. Co- founder Danielle Jones is ex-

cited for the future of tulsans and its position to level the industry, to provide real opportunities and positive behaviour changes within our community. One of tulsans legacy’s is to Remember Tulsa every year by introducing a commemoration pin. Their ultimate goal is to pay homage to and share the rich legacy within Tulsa that was The Black Wall Street. We will be celebrating our first ‘Remember Tulsa Day’. On 1st June 2021 this date marks the 100th anniversary of the horrific 1921 Tulsa Massacre. All proceeds will go to reconstructing a similar infrastructure to the black Wall Street. tulsans aims to build a community similar to which they had in Greenwood 1921. Buy your pin today so you can be part of; not only our history but our future. Join the tulsans platform at: www.tulsans.co.uk Follow them @tulsansuk

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Dolly May from Mount Olive, Jamaica

am Carrol May Coleman Nelson the author of Dolly and the Magical Enchanted Garden, the first in the series of my children’s book. This book is a fun, educational and multi-cultural book written to inspire, educate and stretch the children imagination of our children to dream big and to realise they can reach their full potential to be whoever they want to be. It also brings history to teachers, children, their parents the communities in a new, refreshing and uplifting way. While I was growing up and when I became a mother I struggled to find picture books and toys that look like me and my children. It, was then I realised the wide gap in the presence of diverse characters in children’s literature and the need to bridge this gap. This gave me the inspiration to start writing children’s story to change the long

standing narrative of poor portrayal in the media of us. To one in which our children see themselves reflected in the books they read, with the images they see are positive, “that person is just like me!” So they learn a powerful lesson and feel valued in the society of which they are a part. I wrote Dolly May and the Magical Enchanted Garden because I wanted to give children a different aspect to their reality – one they could aspire to. Dolly May and the Magical Enchanted Garden is a fun and magical Book which takes children on a magical journey of discovery. Children will be transported back to the top of Mount Olive, Ginger Ridge in Jamaica where I grew up. Feel the warmth of the hot sun on their face, and feel the

prickly grass between their toes as their happy voices carry across in the air over the mountain as they played in the garden. There is a feeling of anticipation and excitement about the next magical game grandma Majji will play – what adventure they would have and who they would we meet on their journey. Book Synopsis: Dolly May is an inquisitive and bright little girl. She lives at the top of Mount Olive, in the beautiful Island of Jamaica with her Grandma Majji. Dolly and her friends love to play in Grandma Majji’s mystical garden. Grandma Majji has the best games and with her help she encourages them to dream big, and achieve

all that they can desire. Through teaching them about positive role models of the past, she shows them they too can become anything they want to be from a deep-sea diver to an astronaut. There’s no limit to their imagination! This is a perfect book for parents and their children to read together and to help educate, inspire and empower their children to be courageous, so they can become great achievers in life. n My wish is for all children and young people to pursue their dreams and transform their lives. I can be contacted on: Email:carroljay11@ gmail.com Mobile: 07983407613 Website: https://cmnmagicalbooks.com Instgram@carroldollymay Signed copies available direct from the author

portroyalpatties.co.uk

PATTY IS YOUR PATTY?!

WHICH

THE THE NORTH SOUTH WEST

Sheer Chemistry is an empowering hosiery brand focused on validating and celebrating the diverse beauty of women of all shades of brown. With shades inspired by intrepid adventures around the world, Sheer Chemistry is designed for ambitious, radiant and confident women who want tights that seamlessly complement their fashion choices. Founded by Tahlia Gray as a result of her time working in New York, Sheer Chemistry was born out the frustration from the lack of hosiery products available for women of colour. Driven by a mission to create a more diverse perception of beauty,â&#x20AC;¨Sheer Chemistry gives women the opportunity to find their perfect match, and empowers them to feel confident and gorgeous in their own skin. Available to buy in John Lewis from November 2020. Website: www.sheerchemistry.com Instagram: @sheerchemistry_tights

SHEER CHEMISTRY

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

LEGAL SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES*

THE DEAL

For a limited time only**, we are offering small businesses annual legal support cover from £49 per month***

LEGAL SERVICES Consultations Legal letters Legal advice Help at Court

AREAS OF LAW

REDUCED COSTS SERVICES

Business law Property Law Litigation Employment Law Immigration Law

Discounted Fee Agreements Conditional Fee Agreements Damage Based Agreements No Win - No Fee

BENEFITS Peace of mind knowing that reliable legal advice or representation will be available whenever you need it. In-depth knowledge of your specific business interests to and help improve your company’s operations. Up to 12 hours legal advice and assistance including help at court. 12 London Road

Tel: 0203 232 2135

Enfield EN2 6EB

info@ojnsolicitors.com

* self-employed and businesses with 1 - 5 employees

**offer expires on 26 February 2021

***subject to terms and conditions

THE NORTH MIDLANDS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

4 tips for small businesses

and the self-employed Courtesy of OJN Solicitors

ne of the significant things that COVID19 has taught us is that you should always expect the unexpected. When the clock struck 12 on 1 January 2020 and we cheerily ushered in the New year, no one could have foreseen the unprecedented carnage the pandemic would eventually bring within a few months. Here are 4 tips for small businesses and the self-employed to manage and navigate these challenging COVID times. 1. Take your head out of the sand

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ignore letters threatening legal action. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter how frivolous or unfair you think the claim is. It may not matter that we are in middle of COVID. Understand the nature of the claim being made against you and respond to any deadlines given. If unsure, take advice from a qualified solicitor. We have seen many cases where a client has spent thousands of pounds in legal fees they could easily have avoided if they dealt with the issue from the start. 2. Put your agreements in writing Always insist on a written contract before providing a service or product or entering into a business relationship. Seek legal

advice regarding the drafting of contracts for common situations your business faces. 3. Make sure you understand the meaning of legal terminology Some business owners may see legal terms like force majeure; conditional sale; damages or covenants and not understand their full meaning and effect. Rather than ask for assistance, they just sign documents in faith, cross their fingers and hope for the best. It is an unnecessary risk to do this because a mistake could end up being extremely detrimental to your success. 4. Listen to genuine advice and constructive criticism. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all well and good being pas-

sionate about your business idea and certainly, sometimes, you need to ignore the pessimists, to realise your dream. However, some overzealous business owners dismiss constructive criticism or advice they receive, which can lead them to make mistakes they would not have made if they had listened. Learn how to distinguish purely negative comments from constructive criticism. If someone is offering you genuine advice, listen carefully. Impartial people, like potential or existing customers, investors or mentors are much more likely to be honest with you than family and friends. So pay particular attention to what they have to say. n

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Hyland House School At Hyland House School, we are guided by Christian principles to develop the whole child, to enable all our pupils to: • Get a glimpse of God • Become successful learners • Become confident individuals • Become responsible citizens Our School motto is “The Lord is the Master of our School”. ‘Achieving Excellence’ is our goal. Through a loving, nurturing atmosphere, children are encouraged to understand their strengths and growth points and to develop knowledge, skills and understanding that will help them to have a positive sense of self. At our core, we believe in traditional values. We have high expectations for good manners, discipline and respect, which is reflected in our Ethos: ‘Through Jesus I can show, LOVE, JOY, KINDNESS, PERSEVERANCE AND SELF-CONTROL’

Our pastoral care is excellent and visitors often comment that our pupils are friendly, courteous and polite. We provide a rich, balanced and ambitious curriculum, taught by committed, professional, caring and creative teachers. Embedded in our unique curriculum are our Personal Learning & Thinking Skills, which help our children in the goal of achieving ‘Academic Excellence’: “Today I will be…an Independent Enquirer; a Creative Thinker; a Reflective Learner; an Effective Participator; a Self-manager & a Successful Team Worker”

We provide small classes and achieve excellent results Situated in North London our school comprises: • Two fully equipped Science labs. • Two Art Rooms. • A Home Economic Room. housing 10 cookers, 10 sinks and 10 workstations. • A Computing Suite with 22 Apple computer workstations. • A gymnasium. • A specialist Music Room. • A dedicated French Language Room. We have every confidence in the excellence of our Adventist School and we are proud of the affirmation given by Ofsted in November 2018, when it judged our school to be ‘OUTSTAND-

ING’ in our provision for Early Years Education and ‘GOOD’ for the rest of our school. “The early years is outstanding, because children make an excellent start to their education. The quality of teaching is exceptional, which has resulted in children making very good progress.” Ofsted 2018 “Pupils are happy, safe and enjoy coming to school. They are well-behaved and show respect to each other and adults.” Ofsted 2018 Some schools prepare students for a job and others prepare and equip students for life. At Hyland House School we do both. There are no failures at Hyland House School because children are taught: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ - Phi-

lippians 4:13 So, when you contemplate that important decision, that crucial option, that life-changing, critical choice of school for your child; know that at Hyland House School we will equip your child with the tools to help them soar as they reach up to the stars to chase their dreams and aspirations! n

For more information, please visit our website at: www.

hylandhouseschool.org and contact us: telephone 020 8520 4186 or email us at: info@hylandhouseschool.org

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HOUSE UK BLACK BUSINESSHYLAND GUIDE 2020-21

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOL Holcombe Road Tottenham, London N17 9AB Tel: 0208 520 4186 www.hylandhouseschool.org info@hylandhouseschool.org

“Our vision: Academic excellence, a rich, ambitious Christian education, character development within a loving, nurturing environment”

Our school’s warm, friendly atmosphere supported by firm, yet kind discipline, provides an environment in which children may develop their abilities with confidence.

LONDON THE NORTH

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

one-to-one counselling support to men

buse in wrong regardless of who the perpetrator is. This is true of all abuse, racial abuse, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, or any other form of abuse. It is accepted that anyone could be a victim of racial abuse, however when it comes domestic abuse or sexual abuse it is less accepted that a man could be a victim as well as a woman Uomini is an independent counselling service for male victims of domestic abuse which started in 2012 to support male victims of domestic abuse, men who are being hurt by a current or former partner or by family member. The service is completely independent and receives no governmental or state funding. This has allowed the service to consistently address the range of emotional, mental, legal, and social needs that male victims of domestic abuse encounter on their road to recovery from the abuse inflicted on them by people that they have had very intimate relationships with.

2020 has seen much greater questioning of the racial social construct that Black is always in the wrong. Questioning the gender social construct in domestic abuse that men are always in the wrong or that men are always the aggressors, the perpetrators and women are always the victims needs to take place as well. Men who access the counselling service have been abused emotionally, physically, financially, legally, systemically, socially, and sexually. While there is now more discuss about the pain that domestic abuse causes women, there is still little, to no discussion about the impact of domestic abuse on men. One of the least talked about

ways that men are abused by women is paternity abuse. Paternity abuse takes one of three forms. Firstly, it is when a woman intentionally lies about the paternity of a child to control, hurt, or manipulate a man. Secondly it is when a woman intentionally becomes pregnant to use the paternal relationship of a man with the future child to control, hurt or manipulate him. Thirdly, it is when a woman uses a relationship that a man has with his children to control, hurt, or manipulate him. None of these forms of abuse is fully addressed in the wider conversations about domestic abuse. This is not parental alienation. It is paternity abuse. This form of abuse is one of the most common among the general population. It is and has been so common that it goes unnoticed.

Ethnic minority men are overrepresented in the service. A third of the service users are of Black origin, another third are of South East Asian origin. As Uomini is a counselling service that was started by and is currently managed by a Black man it is well placed to address the needs of the BAME clients who access the service in ever greater numbers. n Uomini is working to address the societal failure of acknowledging the equality among victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse, that perpetrators of domestic abuse can be men or women as can the victims. Information about this unique counselling service can be found at:

www.uomini.co.uk

Abuse is wrong regardless of who the perpetrator is

For more information contact us. E: mail:info@uominicounselling.org Text: 07525 066 171 W: uomini.co.uk

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A VERY HAIRY BUSINESS HAIRporrn would like to say, I hope everyone is keeping safe. With the current issues here in the UK and around the world these are uncertain times. The last time we were featured in the UK Black business guide 201920 we were introduced to you all under the heading â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; The Power To Achieve Anythingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and currently how fitting a statement. You have the power to achieve anything you want to in life and you should pursue that with your full passion. Move into your purpose, fully commit and work hard. With this same energy HAIRporrn was born and we are happy with the presence we hold. HAIRporrn are currently offering; Buy 2 get 1 FREE on hair bundles, this means if you purchase any texture any lengths you will receive a third hair bundle matching your chosen texture and shortest length purchased at: www.hairporrn.com

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The Prodigal Generation- Intergenerational wealth Transfer is a phenomenal book which digs deep into key issues of finance and mind-set of both the millennial Generation and Baby Boomers. It helps shed light of wisdom on the generational gap dilemma, connects the 3 common wealth transfer engines and exposes the often forgotten 4th dimension of wealth transfer(as a hint.. .this is well beyond money.) The book has successfully been crafted to engage two diverse generational groups by underlying the root cause issues and proffering solutions that creates win-win situation with both generational groups. Deji Nehan is a wealth Coach, Financial Planning Consultant, Chartered Accountant who has taken keen interest in understanding the psychology of wealth and superimpose his years of professional learning, practical hands-on experience, his own failing in personal and business life, a vast array of lessons from his massive library of business, personal development, psychology, spiritual and bibliography books and training to deliver this thought provoking masterpiece that highlights the massive issues in the society at large around lack of financial education in schools or homes, thereby leading a generation to financial doom and spiralling debt and its resultant effect. Deji is a certified Money coach with Christians Against poverty(CAP) and volunteers his time to educate school children, youth and adults on Money management. Deji has stepped on to close the gap by creating the conscious awareness required to build a wealthy lifestyle and ensure a generational wealth approach that outlive each one of us and makes the next generation equipped to take our prosperity into posterity. Deji Nehan MBA, ACCA, DipFA, CeMAP

PRODIGAL GENERATION

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My daughter was diagnosed with Lupus at the age of 14 and this started my journey. I heard about Plant based foods being good for those with autoimmune disease, so I began researching them. I found the information very interesting and as I understood that Diet played a crucial role it became clear how plant-based foods were an effective treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune disorders such as lupus. I was happy to know that many reports showed that fasting and plantfood diets improved clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, another autoimmune conditions, mainly due to them being high in antioxidants, healthy fibre, essential vitamins and minerals and protein which would be easy for the body to process. This was applied to Skincare. Skin can absorb up to 60% of what goes on it., and after seeing the results of a plant-based diet, skincare was my next focus. Looking for natural products was quite overwhelming and misleading at times and they could be either expensive or the ingredients questionable and as My daughter was hypersensitive I decided to go on courses to make oils and creams to help her which again had a positive result. By the age of 21 My Daughter was medication free

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Curbing Violence and Awakening the Potential of our Youth

he Safety Box ® is an award-winning social enterprise with ground-breaking statistics on violence reduction empowering youth and adults alike, it has touched over 14,000 lives since its inception. While black people only account for just 3% of the UK, almost half of the inmates held in prisons for young people in England & Wales are from a black & minority ethnic (BME) background, which is the highest proportion on record, and for adult prisons black offenders are disproportionally over represented. YOUTH According to Government Ethnicity Facts and Figures, black young people are the highest group at risk of murder in London and children from a Caribbean background have rates of permanent exclusion 3 times that of the pu-

pil population as a whole. More than 80% of the 21,950 stop and searches between March and May of this year resulted in no further

action, and according to analysis of the home affairs select committee the figures equate to 30% of all young black males in London. “I was tired of seeing the children being murdered, youth using knives, falling into a life of crime, parents struggling to keep their youth motivated and our black youth continually reoffending without effective programs for them in prison to help awaken their potential and remove the negative stigma associated with our young people” – Founder Nathaniel Peat

VIOLENCE REDUCTION Viewing violence through the lens of public health The Safety Box employs an evidence-based model, proven to reduce violence

“violence reduced by 96% in one year” in different cultural contexts. Research indicates that violence, like other behaviours is acquired or learned – mainly through modelling, observing, imitating or copying. We learn socially from those around us how to act, what to do, and what is expected of us. After the age of 10, these behaviours become unconsciously “regulated” not by family, but by peers. IMPACT In 2012-13 The Safety Box in partnership with Cure Violence & Surviving Our Streets successfully implemented a violence reduction model for the first time in a Youth Offending Institution where the group violence reduced by 96% in one year. Fast forward to now the Aspire Higher program has seen 67% reductions in Violence, 61% increase in employment, 66% increase in engagement in education post intervention (2017-2019) in prisons within the south east. “I served a 3 years sentence for bulgary and was put on The Safety Box Aspire Higher program, I

did the course and thought it was better than any other course I had ever done before in jail. It inspired me to become a prison mentor, helping me to change my mindset for the better, it made me feel better about myself helping me to achieve me goals on release. I now own a mobile valeting and safe washing service for cars” – X Young offender Jack Hever THE SAFETY BOX® The Safety® Box programs are accredited through AQA and are holistically designed to help young people and young adults develop important skills for life. The Safety Box® flagship program Aspire Higher was formulated through the combined efforts of Nathaniel Peat and Christopher Syrus BEM. It is a high impact violence reduction and holistic personal development program designed to change behaviour traits and negative mindsets, it uses advanced coaching methodologies combined with crime prevention workshop, trauma therapy through creative art and music, motivational strategies, high level conflict resolution, non-aggressive knife defence, one-to-one coaching and violence prevention. The program builds confidence and self-esteem, while inspiring the participants to engage in education, training, and employment. The enterprise now supplies a two set DVD series, personal development self-study workbook and telephone based therapeutic & coaching sessions and has the potential to reach many more via a digital platform. The enterprise works across the full education sector covering programs within schools, colleges, PRUS, prisons, consultative services for parents, wrap around services, INSET training and training of professionals who work with youth at risk. n

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Delivering Evidenced Violence Reduction Programs in the Community and In Prison.

THE SAFETY BOX YOUTH PROGRAMS The Safety Box ® is an award winning evidenced based intervention that works with high risk oﬀenders in reducing violence. We use high impact methodologies to inspire, motivate, change mindsets and safeguard young people in schools, PRUs & colleges against gangs, drugs & knife crime.

AS SEEN ON Book Us Into Your School, College Or Prison Today Contact Us

0843 289 6761

@thesafaetybox_uk

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pa r t n e r s

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The Kente pattern features geometric patterns, each pattern has meaning relating to the history of the Ashanti people. We have represented this on watches that you can wear with pride every day and for all casual smart occasions. Take your pick from a variety of Kente print watches in Rose Gold, Black or Silver stainless steel straps and all are suitable for men and women which you will love.

FIND YOUR PERFECT OPTION Your bespoke jewellery design experience starts with an in-depth discussion with one of our dedicated jewellery consultants. From re-modelling an existing design to creating something that is completely unique, our expert designers will happily create a design brief for you, so you can see how your ideas and dreams can become a shining reality. In conjunction with the design concept, we also help you choose from our beautiful collection of stunning stones. Whether you are looking for a perfectly cut diamond, a captivating ceylon sapphire or a beautiful Zambian emerald, it will be our pleasure to explore the different appearances, beauty and prices to help you to find your perfect option. For more complex designs, we develop a series of handdrawn or CAD images (depending on design requirements) for you to review. This will help you to confidently choose the perfect final design.

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We buy broken jewellery and scrap gold at the best prices CASH FOR SCRAP Handmade items to order Gold, Silver (9ct & 18ct) & Platinum Telephone: 020 7737 5074 Email: golddiscount@yahoo.co.uk 9 Brixton Station Road, Brixton SW9 8PA Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30am - 6.00pm

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Sierra Leonean, West African and Pan-African cuisine made out of Theresaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loving kitchen

Where food speaks with your palate Facebook @theresaskitchen1 Instagram @theresas_kitchen Twitter @theresakitch Email: info@theresaskitchen.uk Tel: 02086531045 | 07768679901

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DO-SOUTH.COM

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Different by Design

Words by Lauren Dei Photography by James Balston

Creative Director of interior design studio Do South speaks about what it takes to run his creative business, shares how his heritage informs his work, and lays out some key advice for the next generation of design-loving entrepreneurs.

“I

’ve always felt inspired to shape the environments around me,” says Freddie Oke, Founder and Director of Do South Design in Crystal Palace, South London. “The way I communicate my vision helps others to tap into their own. Then, next thing you know, we’re having a full brainstorming session. That’s how I like to work with my clients – I love helping them to make the changes they want to see, and they love the way I bring their ideas to life.”

Do South sprung from an idea Freddie had back in 2009. Pulling together his resources, he researched the furniture and interior design world like crazy, claimed an unwanted, boarded-up newsagents and birthed his dream – a design studio, shop and showroom where walk-in customers and professional clients come to have their homes and workspaces transformed. Now building a team across both the in-store and digital platforms, Freddie is moving his studio into a new space of growth and brand

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identity, combining European design from over 40 brands with visual influences from his African heritage. The son of a Nigerian father and Irish mother, Freddie represents his background in his work, more recently sourcing artefacts from West Africa that are visible in the store. “One of my most prized possessions is a Yoruba crown passed down to me by my father. And my mother says I always kept my room very tidy as a child and loved to present myself well. So I must have had an eye for style from a very young age!” So what’s a typical day at the studio like? “There’s no such thing. Every day is different. I meet with my studio manager Affy on Thursday mornings to discuss which brands to push, making sure our prices are in-line with our competitors. Then it’s a combination of phone calls to update clients on the progress of their home or workspace, site visits to see how the builders are getting on, speaking to suppliers about new stock, meeting with the web and graphic designers to make sure our digital image is evolving with the business, and putting out our social media and content updates.” What does it take to do the job? “A sense of adventure, willingness to explore new ideas. The ability to really listen to what a customer wants and deliver it within their budget, sticking to the timeline they have for the job to be completed, and in-line with our mission to create designs beyond the obvious. Having

“Finding people who compliment your own abilities while bringing skills to the table that you don’t have helps a business to grow.”

the right team behind you is very important. Finding people who compliment your own abilities while bringing skills to the table that you don’t have helps a business to grow. All smart entrepreneurs recognise there is always more to learn. You don’t know what you don’t know, so make it your job to find those who do.” And as a person in the know, Freddie is passionate about investing in the next generation of designers and creatives. “My advice, first of all, would be to get to know yourself; the things that make you who you are, your likes and dislikes, your uniqueness – then practise the way you talk about those things. This will help you to discover your own personal, signature style – something that will develop over time, so keep checking in with yourself. Also, stay open to learning as an

on-going process – school, college and university are great for formal qualifications, so if there are design courses you’re interested in, speak to your course advisors to help you find the best one for you. However, so much of this work is intuitive and comes from your own gut feeling about the way you want to do, be and create things. I am self-taught and learned from others in informal ways. Your own learning is something you can add to all the time, so keep thinking outside the box about how and where you can increase your design knowledge. And have the courage to stand out. The things that make you different are a part of your design – embrace them and watch the magic unfold.” Visit do-south.com or follow @dosouth_designbeyondtheobvious on Instagram

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My name is Pariis Taylor and I am the founder of Post Book’d. For the last 10 years I have focused my career around supporting young care leavers to make a positive transition into adulthood as well as making a positive impact in their communities. Unfortunately, due to Covid19 I lost my job. Through panic and confusion during these uncertain times, we are all unfortunately subject to a change in how we live our lives, but in a strange way it is also quite humbling for myself. During lockdown I have found comfort in my book collection thankfully I have a small group of friends who I can discuss my recent book adventures with. At this point I woke up to the reality that buying £50 worth of book each month and discussing with likeminded people is a huge privilege. My natural thought process was “What can I do?” From this, the idea of Post Book’d was

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

created and self funded! For a reasonable monthly fee our exclusive members club will have access to ethically sourced books from new and up and coming grassroot writers from the Black and Ethnic Minority communities. As well as our most loved authors and we’ll deliver straight to your door. With my background in Youth Work I knew there was still something needed I needed to do to please my passion for helping others, less fortunate to myself. For that reason, I made a pledge to donate 15% of each monthly subscription, which will go towards providing free books to selected organisations, charities, community groups, or individuals currently living from mental health, homelessness, care leavers, those currently serving in HMP or those financially excluded from accessing some of the best literature we all can take for granted.

POST BOOK’D

COME FOR THE ENERGY Nashat simply means energy. We are an African Cultural Centre that invigorates the mind, body, spirit and soul with the aim to unify and enhance the dynamics of our partners and communities. We offer a wide variety of retail products and services for all occasions and age groups including books, herbs, health, nutrition and wellbeing products for the hair, skin, internal and external body, clothing for men, women and children, jewellery, apparel and toys. We also deliver a variety

of workshops and tutoring on various topics. We have a recording studio for creatives and a publishing service for authors. So why not come and explore? There is something here f o r everyone.

NASHAT Continued on page 50 u

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Amey Finance Academy based at One Canada Square in the Canary Wharf Tower, London are a group of Wealth Creation Educators, helping you to achieve your financial goals. They specialise in helping you to create multiple sources of income and build generational wealth. You can choose from a range of income streams (Property, Forex Trading, e-Commerce and Entrepreneurship), explore methods to save money and utilise tools to help you build a business. Amey Finance Academy founded in 2018 by Des Amey. Today, Des is a wealth creation expert, keynote speaker, finance broker and property expert who is now a multi 6 figure earner, two and a half years ago he was an Assistant Head Teacher struggling to make ends meet and living paycheque to paycheque. He needed another way and was fed up with the life he was living, he was introduced to the world of forex and within a year he was able to earn his 100k, after seeing how much it impacted his life he wanted to help others do the same. Des and his team coach are dedicated to empowering others. They mentor, offer support and training to ensure you grow, step out of your comfort zone, meet your personal and financial goals. Currently the Academy is over 2,000 members, lives are

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

changing and whether you want an additional income, or you want to replace it altogether the possibilities are endless. Since February, the Academy has doubled in size, people are in need of something more! If there was ever a time to take control of your financial future, learn a skill that can pay you for a lifetime, it is now. If you would like more information about the Academy and how you can get involved contact Thema Channer the Operations Manager at thema@ameyfinance.com.

AMEY

FINANCIAL FUTURE

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“Leading with authenticity and driven by diversity” Eagle London Agency

agle London is a black-owned creative and tech agency that offers bespoke video content production, web design and online application development services to forward-thinking businesses seeking to create a diverse positioning to attract an ethnically diverse audience. Eagle was founded by Martin Anncou and Philip Osei-Hwere in 2004 following a conversation between a group of motivated young black Africans on why ethnic brands in the UK struggled to thrive amid a growing ethnic consumer. Philip said they realised there was a lack of ethnically driven or black-owned PR and Communications agencies with expertise working with people from ethnic backgrounds. Eagle London’s vision is to bring a greater representation and to see black businesses not just survive but thrive. “We lead with authenticity and are driven by diversity. We are tech enthusiasts but we’re also experienced innovators who delight in supporting brands from conception to execution”. Philip says.

Philip is a Ghanaian-born visionary and devout Christian keen on empowering young people. Through his leadership, the agency has earned an enviable position as a leading online visa and biometric passport application software developer delivering to African Missions in Europe, Africa, America and Asia, whilst offering services to clients such as Facebook Africa, dentsu X, Toyota Ghana, JN Money, MoneyGram, Hershey, and extending its services to partner agencies in Accra and New York. In the black community, Philip leads Eagle’s partnership with Moving On Up Newham to empower and provide insights into the industry for young black men. He is also a professional

mentor at the University of East London, he also offers career support and personal development to young people in his local church. To Philip, we are in exciting times where great strides are being made by black people in all sectors. He, however, cautioned that in our drive to thrive, we shouldn’t lose our values which will be our legacy. “We take a stand to uphold our values. Our passion for standing by our values then becomes what eventually gets us noticed.” n Find out more about Eagle London Agency www.eagletheagency.com Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @eagletheagency

IT SERVICES

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VIDEO

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

CREATIVE

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AMPLIFYING BUSINESSES AND SUPPORTING THE BLACK POUND SINCE 2004 about us Eagle London is a blackowned creative and tech agency that offers bespoke video content production, web design and online application development services to forward-thinking businesses seeking to create a diverse positioning to attract an ethnically diverse audience.

get in touch Email:

chioma@theemhglobal.com Phone/Text/WhatsApp:

+44(0)7983 508359 +44(0)8453 31 31 82 /eagletheagency @eagletheagency

/eaglelondonagency @eagletheagency

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Continued from page 17 u

‘Overwhelming’

“We had so many reposts, so many people putting us on their pages, so many people putting us on their stories, so many people sharing our ad with their followers. And this was ranging from just regular people to celebrities with big

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

follower numbers. It was overwhelming. That day we sold our biggest ever number of sauces. “Even though we have a lot of dedicated customers it’s been hard to turn that into traffic to our website. Black Pound Day did that for us which was incredible.” However, says Dinning, the impact must not stop there. “Swiss setting that up was amazing, his heart is

so genuine and his focus is right” she says. “But I encourage people to not just stick to one day, we need to make sure that this message gets across because it’s needed. One day is great but we need to make sure we are supporting each other 365 days of the year. It’s not a diss on other cultures. Our family is mixed and we respect all cultures but there’s something special about supporting your own.

‘Economic empowerment’

“Black Pound Day is not a diss on other communities, it’s about empowering ourselves. Everybody should really be fine with that.” For Swiss, this economic empowerment is a key part of what he wants Black Pound Day to achieve in the future. “The day can help our community shape an economic agenda. When we have control of our economic agenda we can move from a position of power, we can make decisions from a position of power and achieve effective outcomes. “Economic unity means we can effect change politically. This is really important. If we’re a community that’s not in a position of power we can’t effect change in a way that can have a positive outcome for us.” n Reprinted from the Voice website: www.voice-online.co.uk

aerosoul.co.uk junglist-movement.com email: info@aerosoul.co.uk

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ORIGINAL PRODUCTS

We are foremost supplier of religious and spiritual products Candles, Essential oils, Bath, Soap, Herbs, Greeting cards, Statues, Incense, Books, Crosses, Rosaries, Frames, Perfumes, Herbs, Gifts. All available for your needs, come in and share the warm and caring atmosphere.

OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Also available Spiritual Healer/Reader from Haiti with over 50 years of experience. Can help with whatever your needs are.

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We are one of the world's leading and most trusted operators in the industry - we let our work and reputation do the talking. St. Elmo have established an ever-growing list of high net-worth individuals from entrepreneurs, political dignitaries, sports personalities, celebrities and their families. We operate in a very discreet way, where our client’s privacy and safety is our primary concern. We have a stellar reputation within high proﬁle public events, protecting talent before, during and after performing/ﬁlming/competing.

0800 193 3388

INFO@ST-ELMO.UK

ST. ELMO ASSOCIATES , 48 CALTHORPE ROAD, BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND, B15 1TH, UNITED KINGDOM

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

SS Dance & Wellbeing is a business that has been created by freelance dance artist Sophie Simpson, with a strong focus on highlighting the importance of health and wellbeing in Yorkshire communities; creating a platform to challenge modern societies growing mental health concerns through the implementaion of dance movement. SS Dance & Wellbeings objective is to help minimise issues such as in-activity, isolation and mental wellbeing through a fusion of dance movement and fitness activities that are accessible to a wide range of people, communities and organisations. GET IN TOUCH 07748 396070 ssdancewellbeing@outlook.com

E: hello@maryfash.com T: 07925440117

SS DANCE & WELLBEING

www.maryfash.com

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hen I started my entrepreneurial journey 8 plus years ago, it was a long, dark and tough road as I had no idea what I was doing and did not have the support system I craved. It was just me and my business ideas. As a result, I ended up dropping those ideas and focused on my degree and career path, thinking I could not do it and possibly being an entrepreneur was not for me. Until I met my first business mentor and everything changed! This was when I realised I could do this. From that day forward, I vowed to help individuals looking to start their own side hustle or business because I understand first-hand how stressful, overwhelming and lonely it can be trying to start a business alone with no support. My vision is to help as many individuals who are ready to take that step forward as possible. My name is Mary Fashanu and I help individuals and professionals start, scale and sustain their businesses successfully using tried and tested strategies. My core message encourages individuals to not be afraid to step out, embrace opportunity, cherish relationships, live courageously and excel. n

Natalie Joseph disrupts the lingerie market, with a collection for women with a large bust and a small frame.

fter 5 weeks of crowdfunding Natalie Joseph Lingerie generated over £12,500 to get her first lingerie collection off the ground, and NatWest backed her business with £5,000. Founder Natalie Joseph of South London used the Crowdfunder platform with NatWest to raise capital for the development and production of her first collection. Natalie surpassed the original target of £10,000 and set her goal even higher, with a stretch target of £20,000. The NatWest Back Her Business Fund supports female founders to start businesses and match fund up to 50 per cent of the initial crowdfunding target, up to a maximum of £5,000. You can join the mailing list and pre-order your lingerie and bra ac-

cessories kits on https://nataliejosephlingerie.com Natalie Joseph Lingerie brand grew out of Natalie’s frustration of adapting her own bras to work with her outfits. Natalie at size 34K decided she could design a better and more comfortable bra and after two years of extensive research of her target market she trained to become qualified bra

fitter, undertaking business, marketing and lingerie contouring courses to keep abreast of the lingerie industry whilst consistently networking. 50% of UK women are a 36 DD cup size or larger. 80% of UK women wear the wrong bra size. Of those women, 70% wore bras that were too small whilst 10% wore bras that were too big. 77% of UK plus size women say that it is difficult to find well-fitting, quality bra because they don’t fit the ‘standard or regular size bracket. During the last century the UK woman’s body has evolved dramatically, particularly from diet and hormones, and has become more ethnically diverse. Consequently, many have become inherently curvier and heavier. Many curvy women tend to have larger volume to the bottom and may

carry a lot of weight in the buttocks as well as in the abdomen so they will benefit from different fit specifications more suited to their particular lower body shape proportions and pelvic shape. Natalie believes that the clothing and intimate apparel industry has failed to recognise the importance of ethnic body shapes and its commercial significance. Natalie points out “If these industries continue to use dimensions and shapes of the Western standard or the ideal figure, they will continue to fail to dissatisfy different female consumer populations”. Continued on page 58 u

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Passion for Art and Fashion

y name is Fiona Adelayo, Owner, director and founder of Denfidesigns. As far back as I can remember I have always had a passion for Art and fashion and, after graduating with a degree in Art and Design, I worked for several very well known high street and high end fashion establishments as a visual mershandiser. I then went on to becoming a teaching specialist of Art and design. This passion for fashion and Art is part of what has inspired my business, allowing me to combine and marry the two together. How the business started: I started the business officially around 2015. I could see a gap in the market for African designs within a more formal setting. Also I combined my love for ‘Ankara fabrics’ which I grew up seeing family members wearing with my love for conventional fashion accessories and clothing. Every item is made to be worn exclusively, on its own, or to match with another fashion item of the same exclusive print. Why Denfi designs: We are a made to measure and made to match brand Our items range from limited edition bags, to handmade jewellery items. The highest standard in production is part of the essence of Denfidesigns. I am the sole designer but as the business expands I look forward to working with young designers who have a similar vision.

Our passion: I’m passionate about working with women in West African to provide opportunities for work and also to empower them within their own expertise. So as well as myself, I work with women from West Africa to create our collection of bags and clothing. Every item is carefully crafted, every seam, every knot is constructed and handmade with our customer in mind. Our prints are colorful, vivid and eye catching for a bold and colorful statement. n

For a full range of our designs please visit us at: www.denfidesigns.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denfidesigns https://www.instagram.com/denfiblog Facebook page @denfidesigns Twitter: https://twitter.com/denfidesigns1

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Where Black Birth Matters

Abuela Doulas is the first Black owned, founded & created UK Doula Course

here is a wisdom in the stories that our grandmothers tell us. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the medicine of generations. The stories of our collective pasts, and the hope for our future. The world of birth is not new and neither is the work of the birthkeeper. When you decide to be-

come an Abuela doula, you will be encouraged to reach back into your cultural heritage to bring forward the traditions of your mothers and your mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mothers. The role of a doula is to support and to be with women as they travel through pregnancy, birth and those

early postnatal days. To sit in and share the wisdom of the Abuelas, the grandmothers. We need more Black birthworkers. Black women are at greater risk during the perinatal period. They are five times more likely to die than their white counterparts.

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Continued from page 55 u

Natalie has worked endlessly with a bra contour consultant to align her designs with her target markets needs and wants. Natalie express that she knew that her brand would challenge conventional beauty and sizing standards, as she wanted to reflect the modern day, fuller figure woman because she was that woman. With this concept in mind,

Natalie started a luxury lingerie brand for women with a large bust and a small frame. In response, the Natalie Joseph Lingerie brand is designed for the ethnically diverse, curvy and busty woman with bra cup measurements of FF-K cup. This collection is designed for comfort, shape control for a smooth silhouette. Natalie has currently produced four attractive and thoughtfully designed prototypes of

Long-ling Wire-free Bra with High-waist High-leg Thong and Long-line Under-wired Bra with High-Waist High-leg Full Brief Natalie Joseph Lingerie is not fast fashion. “I believe in creating quality yet fashionable products with longevity and sustainability. And where possible, I aim to keep my carbon footprint to a minimum by using recyclable and biodegradable packaging, and by sourcing as many materials and components here in the UK”. “The decision to start my own lingerie brand was very clear –to have a positive impact on the lives of women and leave a legacy”. As a triple awarding-winning hairstylist Natalie states that she “…wasn’t put on this earth to do just one thing and only work on someone else’s dream”. Natalie Joseph is the founder and creative director of Natalie Joseph Lingerie - a luxury lingerie brand

for women with a large bust and a small frame. Natalie’s goal is to empower and inspire women to feel self-assured whilst expressing themselves through fashion; encouraging them to step into their confident and sexy selves. Her mission is to make a positive impact to women worldwide. n Subscribe to the mailing list to pre-order Natalie Joseph Lingerie: https://nataliejosephlingerie.com For any enquires email: info@nataliejosephlingerie.com

Connect with Natalie on social media Instagram: @njlingerie Facebook: @njlingeri

her first collection, and the final collection will soon be available for pre-order. This highly anticipated collection consist of a long-line underwire bra, a long-line wirefree bra, a high-waist high-leg brief and a high-waist high-leg thong that will be crafted with beautiful lace designs in various colours, and innovative fabric technology.

Property We offer a full suite of property management tools to investors, homeowners and landlords. Let us do the work so you can relax knowing your property is in great hands. Handling tenant matters can be stressful and time consuming. Maintenance Service We deliver a 24 hour maintenance support service, to ensure our Members properties are looked after to a top standard Short-Term Rental Have you been thinking about putting your place up for shortterm rental, but feel nervous having strangers in your home? Let Black Ladder ensure the safety of your property and restore your peace of mind. Funding & Investments We understand that in current times it is hard for those in our community to get on the property ladder, we are able to provide support and guidance as to how to make the right steps to being handed the keys to your dream home. Learning Development & Training Programme We are looking to work with the government to provide trainee and apprenticeships opportunities particularly in the BAME community, to help tackle long-term unemployment and help create skilled professionals within the industry. Website: https://blackladder.co.uk Telephone: 0800 002 5576

BLACK LADDER PROPERTY

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MOTIVATED FITNESS Johanna Thompson, aka “Jojo”, is a qualified Level 3 Advanced Personal Trainer and Yoga Alliance qualified yoga teacher. She has 12 years experience in coaching people looking for physical fitness solutions, better health, increased vitality and improved mental well-being. Her previous experiences as a dancer, and a player for a local basketball team have shaped her into a motivated fitness professional and her yoga practice has given her insight on ways to calm the body and increase a sense of mental clarity and inner peace . She is also qualified in pre and postnatal fitness. Originally working in cultural policy for at the London Mayor’s office after studying a history degree. Her skills and fitness have led her to partner with sponsors Samsung, securing their corporate boot-camps, and the Royal College of Surgeons, for which she created training materials to be used for the Olympic inspired 2012 exhibition ‘Anatomy of an Athlete’’. Jojo is practicing private and group sessions online and in person.

JoJo

“ “

Fit for Life; my mission for you My earlier experience of PT’s was totally different to this. Jojo is not just a PT, she’s a great listener who really got me and saw what I needed to accomplish my goals. A bespoke experience with a lot of new exercises that really kicked my body with new energy! I have been training with Jojo for 5 months. In that time she has been the source, full of energy, motivation and advice. Not only has she given me support to train but advice on diet and lifestyle which is realistic and manageable She is a great role model. Anna

”

I have been training with Jojo for 5 months. In that time she has been the source, full of energy, motivation and advice. Not only has she given me support to train but advice on diet and lifestyle which is realistic and manageable David http://jojothompson.co.uk/about-us/

”

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Fashion Apparel For The Curvy Woman I was just a normal plus size woman not a blogger or a journalist, I had never worked in fashion before and my background was working in television and music but I was simply frustrated about the lack of options of clothing and I wanted to see images that I could identify with â&#x20AC;&#x201C; well in 2010 that frustration led me to create an online fashion magazine called Evolve At a time when there was not much out there for us curvy ladies to inspire to, I went on to create two award winning fashion events for the curvy community as a precursor to London Fashion Week called, British Plus Size Fashion weekend and most recently the largest fashion event for us women with curves UK Plus Size Fashion Week. My passion has always been to help

empower us curvy women and let us know that we too have OPTIONS!! We too can look great and feel great no matter what your size and shape because BEAUTY COMES IN ALL SIZES!! So in the summer of 2020 in the middle of this pandemic I created KERVZ Fashion to offer on-trend fashion for women in sizes UK12 - UK30 sexy, trendy and elegant. I have included a special discount code for all the Voice readers please check us out and you too can be a #KERVZBABE Instagram: kervz_online Facebook: Kervzfashion Website: www.kervzfashion.com Discount code: DISCOUNT 20% for all Voice readers

Sizes Available UK 12-28

USE CODE: DISCOUNT20% Website: www.kervzfashion.com Instagram: kervz_online Facebook: Kervzfashion

FOR ALL VOICE READERS

KERVZ

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The Black Mind and its State of Affair stigma around mental health and this suggests there is an opportunity for us to grow more awareness and understanding. Let’s start with having compassion for our child selves that got told, things like: ‘children should be seen and not heard’. This has taught us to silence our pain and is a recipe for poor mental health. According to the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity survey states; 1 in 6 adults experiences a common mental health problem. At a closer look: • Black men were more likely than their White counterparts to experience a psychotic disorder in the last year. • Risk of psychosis in Black Caribbean groups is estimated to be nearly seven times higher than in the White population.

et’s talk about the state of the Black mind and the importance of promoting MENTAL WEALTH within the Black community. Unfortunately, there is still a negative

• Detention rates under the Mental Health Act during 2017/18 were four times higher in the Black community than our White counterparts. • Suicide rates are higher among young Black

men and middle aged Black and South Asian women than among our White British counterparts. The negative stigma is one aspect, and we also need to consider: racism and discrimination, social and economic inequalities, the criminal justice system and a range of other factors, including gender and sexual orientation. Within that, the black community often faces individual and societal challenges that can affect access to healthcare, both mental and physical. We have all struggled with our mental health at some point or know a friend or family member who has and so when you look at the statistics, we have to acknowledge something needs to be done to reduce the stigma around mental health and provide a service that is safe and accessible. It takes a village to raise a child and in order to do this in a healthy way let’s first take care of ourselves and then each other. n SILENCE KILLS!!! Ann-Marie Jacobs Counsellor and Life Coach Empowered Mind Services www.empoweredmindservices.co.uk

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Setta Stone is a contemporary jewellery brand, offering timeless and affordable pieces of jewellery for everyday wear Founded by Chanel Folkes; a proud Afro Caribbean Designer; who is influenced by everyday treasures that can be worn until the end of time. The name Setta Stone originates from Chanel’s Great Grandmother; known as ‘Setta’ and the collection is a homage to her. Setta Stone offers both gold plated and sterling silver pieces. The range includes earrings, necklaces, ring and bracelets. Each piece is designed with high quality, careful consideration and expert craftmanship. Setta Stone offers different pieces for women and is currently in the development stage of creating a menswear collection. Further developments for Setta Stone will include collaborations and networking with artists and other designers, leading to special project releases. Setta Stone collection will make the perfect gift for your partner, family or friend. Don’t forget to include yourself! Instagram: @settastone Twitter:

@settastone

Pinterest:

@settastone

Facebook:

@settastone

Visit our website: www.settastone.com

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Services available v Weddings v Funerals

v Christenings

v Baby showers

v Memorial Maintenance v Garden Maintenance

v Office/Reception Maintenance v Plants Recovery service v Floral Workshops

Available to buy v Household plants v Fresh herb boxes

La-Mae Flowers New Opening times: 10-6pm 7days a week Location: East London, E1W Email: lamaeflowers@gmail.com Contact number: 07908075523

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamaeflowers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lamaeflowers/ Delivery: Available with additional charge

ALL BOUQUETS ARE ALL ON A MADE TO ORDER BASIS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

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Black history and the culture of our ancestors discrimination based on the colour of their skin. Therefore, she encourages reading because it is a skill that benefits children academically but also a skill required for lifelong success.

WHO WE ARE? Melanin Child Stories is a monthly subscription box designed to elevate black children’s identity, confidence and self-esteem as well as to help them see their realities reflected in books. We teach black history and encourage black children to excel. WHAT WE DO? Here at Melanin child stories, we believe in empowering children through education, reading and mental health. Our subscription initiatives facilitate the platform that BAME children need for their educational development in a safe environment. We offer inclusion books plus educational activities about their Black history and the culture of our ancestors. It is important that children understand themselves through books that reflect their lives and experiences. We provide a range of books for a variety of ages (0-16 years).

HOW DOES IT WORK? People can subscribe to a box or buy one off.

ABOUT US Suzzy Williams is the founder of Melanin Child Stories, and a 34-year-old nurse from Guinea-Bissau, but lives in the UK. This started off because she noticed a lack of representation of black characters in children’s books, toys, television and so on. The idea came up after her seven-year-old son started to question about his skin colour. Suzy is committed to support black children who face challenges such as permanent exclusion, bullying, isolation and

Prices: We offer subscription boxes: 1. Small Box from just £9.50 which includes 1 book plus educational activities 2. Standard Box from £19.50 which includes 3 books plus educational activities 3. Large Family Box £29.50 which includes 6 books plus educational activities 4. Family Combo Box £34.50 which includes 6 books plus educational activities - this box is suitable if you have more than more child with different ages because you can combine books.

MELANIN www.melaninchildstories.co.uk

It is important that children understand themselves through books that reflect their lives and experiences. We provide a range of books for a variety of ages (0-16 years). Mobile: O7512151814 Telephone: 01245763334 Website: www.melaninchildstories.co.uk Email: melaninchildstories@hotmail.com

Melaninchildstories Melanin Child Stories

Melanin

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Mother and daughter:

y name is Linda Clarke I am a wife and a mother of 3 beautiful children, 2 of which are twin boys. I would like to share with you my journey and the journey of our Daughter Shanice Alexandre. Myself and Shanice’s journeys have been quite similar due to the fact that we have both suffered traumatic periods within our lives, but have come through at the other end. I was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a tumour was detected in my groin. Our daughter Shanice was about to start university studying fashion, and our twin boys were entering into year 7. I completed 8 months of chemo, and lost the will to live on several occasions, lost all my hair, my taste, and the ability to do anything for myself. I solely relied upon my wonderful husband Lloyd. He was an amazing support

for us all not only as a father but as a husband. He bathed, fed, and cared for me like I was the only person on earth, and this I will always remain grateful for. Our children witnessed my journey of pain, doubt, and sadness. Joy however did come in the morning, I was given the all clear in July 2013. Having our faith, and the love of friends and family proved the medicine that I needed. As life goes on, we were dealt another blow. Our daughter Shanice also suffered a tragic loss. Two years ago, Shanice became pregnant which was a joyous occasion for us all. We attended Shanice’s 21-week scan as normal, the scan was a lengthy scan and the worry that things were not as they should be became quite apparent. We were told that her baby Marvin Junior (baby MJ’s) brain was not developing correctly and was developing outside of his little skull. Shanice was devasted, we were all

“We all have dark days, but sunshine does come in the morning”

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An amazing journey

House of Coco is the leading luxury designer curvy bridal boutique in the UK OPENING HOURS WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY 10:00 - 17.30 SATURDAY 10:00 - 17:00 SUNDAY 11:30 - 16:30 65 EDWARD STREET BIRMINGHAM, B1 2RA TEL.0121 236 0390 http://www.houseofcocobridal.com

devastated. We were then advised that unfortunately the quality of life baby MJ would face, would not be a sustainable or good quality of life. The decision to terminate the pregnancy was the hardest decision that a mother, grandmother and grandfather would ever have to make. Shanice gave birth to baby MJ, on 23rd June 2018. I was present at the birth and to witness your child in so much pain mentally and physically, was not a tall order, I wanted to take the pain away from her but knew I just could not. Shanice has experienced depression and is still undergoing counselling. She lost her herself and her passion for life and creativity. She was screaming for something to rescue her from this tragedy, and from the doubts and pain she was feeling. She decided that there just had to be a change. The idea of creating bridal gowns for curvy women was a vision she had and decided to make this happen. We all believe that House Of Coco saved her from herself, not only as a person but as a WOMAN. House of Coco was founded in January 2019, and this was Shaniceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal time and moment of change. Shanice is now speaking openly about her journey, and she has expressed that opening the boutique stopped her from giving up on herself and life. Shanice is still a strong, creative fashinista, and is the owner of House Of Coco Curvey Bridal Boutique, which is a black owned curvy boutique based in the centre of Birmingham, creating such happiness from such a humble and dark place where she was. She has travelled the world, working in New York and Dubi, and thrives on giving her brides a touch of her personal love and attention, and making each bride feel special, and embracing all of their beautiful curves. We all have dark days, but sunshine does come in the morning, we just have to believe. n

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KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

www.cassiscreative.com @cassiscreative

A daughter considers her role with the family legacy Cleone Foods and the world of Island Delight which were created by her father in 1988 in the recession. He chose to set up the factory to be the best Caribbean patty manufacturer. Since then he has gone from strength to strength getting into major supermarkets. Growing up I always would be on the road in the van with Dad doing deliveries and then when I was old enough working on the factory floor. That gave me my first real understanding of the business and a chance to earn my pocket money. As I got older and made my own path, I was aware of things going on and would help out when I could. Then at the start of April, my father got Covid-19 and was taken to hospital. He spent many months in hospital and pulled through, but at that moment I became the Director of the company. I knew I would always take it over, but never in this manner. It has been a steep learning curve, but one that I always knew was coming and I’m embracing the new challenge.

Cassiscreative offers design services, Products, coaching and authentic story-telling

We mainly work with small brands and aspiring authors. We design instagram high-lights and business cards to name a few. We also have a masterclass that helps aspiring authors successfully write, publish and profit from their first book. We pride ourself in giving great customer service. We go above and beyond for our clients and customers because we truly care!

HERE’S SOME OF OUR PRODUCTS:

Ebook • Bookmarks • Book series • Mug and keyrings

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COSTS CUTTERS GENERAL Let me help you overshoot your goals in the right ways. Reduce your unintended wasteful spends by investing beneficially in my Operational Maintenance Recruitment Management & Techniques as your consultant and contractor. Please call me +447957867356 Email- seton@directcostscutters.com

COSTS CUTTERS

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Keeping a legacy alive

ell the story of this woman is as follows. Gwendolyn was born in St Andrews Jamaica West Indies. She grew up learning to cook from a very young age, since her mother passed away when she was only five years old. Now this is where she learnt to start cooking and that was something that she embraced from her heart. Mamma Gwenny then

started to tweek her dishes and added different spices to enhance the her dishes. Her food could be smelt far and wide with that Caribbean breeze, so good that everyone in her village started calling her Mumma (mother) in Jamaican Patois language. Eventually, Gwendolyn came to reside in the UK and was married to a fellow Jamaican from the same Parish. She endured hard times in England, and found it hard to adapt at first. Then she had her family to look after and worked hard and long to help to provide for loved ones, but she always made time and knew that cooking was a way to stay humble and to keep a happy household. She would cook every day three to four meals a day for her loved ones and friends on a weekend friends would flock to her home and eat. There was always plenty to go around for everyone and that pleased Gwendolyn. They nicknamed her Miss Gwenny or Mamma Gwenny, this is what we decided to call the brand and the logo is a perfect design drawing of the woman herself. However, Gwendolyn passed away in

October 2000, but she left one thing to her only son that his father gave to him and that was her recipe for the seasoning that she made for each and every dish. These are the very ingredients passed to her by Mamma Gwenny’s own mother when she died. We do not know how long this seasoning recipe has been in the family for. However it is a minimum of three generations old that we can confirm and are proud to share with the world. So here we give you the authentic seasoning that Mamma Gwenny made by herself to please you and the world. n Enjoy and when you’r eating think of Mamma Gwenny’s smile. MAMMA GWENNY’S AUTHENTIC CARIBBEAN unit 5-7 Octagon Business Park, Miller Street, Birmingham, B6 4NF T: 0121 616 0108 W: www. mammagwennys.co.uk

Shining a light on the UK’s diverse business community As part of NatWest’s drive to support diversity in business we speak to Karen Blackett OBE, WPP’s UK Country Manager and UK CEO of GroupM. Hear Karen talk about her varied career in advertising to date and her tips on how business leaders can address important societal issues with authenticity. Scan the QR code to view the full interview, or search NatWest Business Hub

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Family secret recipes passed down through generations TRADE ENQUIRES WELCOME FOR SHOPS, RESTAURANTS AND MORE

www.mammagwennys.co.uk Voice special offer!

BUY 5 GET 1 FREE, BUY 8 GET 3 FREE Use code: Voice1120 Expires 31/12/2020

Available on: Ebay, Amazon and in selected Tesco stores

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Don’t just take our word for it…

IG Nanny was just 13 yrs old when she started experimenting with different natural oils and products to use in her hair. By the time she relocated to the UK in the early 1960’s she had perfected her skills and went on to provide hair oils for her family. Her daughter Althea, inundated with requests for the product which kept her long tresses in such good condition, helped BIG Nanny to start up a business making the much sort after hair oils available to the public.. BIG Nanny and her natural hair products are now multi-award winning and used by people from all walks of life and ethnicities. They have been seen on Channel 4, featured in OK! Online, Style Cartel and in The Voice. BIG Nanny gives credit to her daughter’s unrelenting efforts to bring the products to the masses however, Althea will tell you that it could not be done without her mother’s products that have stood the test of time being over 68 yrs in the making. Currently, there are 2 types of BIG Nanny’s hair oil which cater to the needs of every hair type, from straight European hair (used to ease frizz and as a pre-poo) right up to that glorious gravity defying

crown of Afro hair (used to soften, repair and revive). BIG Nanny’s also makes available all the accessories they use in their hair care such as wood combs https:// bignannyshairproducts.co.uk/ product/talawa-sandlewood-bamboo-comb/ and brushes https:// bignannyshairproducts.co.uk/ product/sandalwood-brushes/ and single layer sleep caps https:// bignannyshairproducts.co.uk/ product/conditioning-sleep-bonnet/ TIP: If you find that after braiding your scalp becomes irritated and itchy this could be due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing of the braiding hair. To stop this you will need to wash the braiding hair before installing it. You can use a little Apple Cider Vinegar and shampoo to rinse gently and then finish up with conditioner ensuring that you keep the hair intact as purchased and with the ends secured so as not to cause tangling. Gently squeeze out excess water and hang to dry. Do not put it in a tumble dryer, it will not end well. When your hair is in a protective style such as braids, this is an excellent time to grow your hair. Braiding hair can be a little abrasive causing the cuticles to lift and so to protect your precious kinks and curls we recommend that you use your BIG Nanny’s Hair Oil on

your hair partings and importantly on the actual braids themselves to the full length of your own hair. When you remove the braids, you will find that your hair will be soft, moisturised and conditioned and that the braids themselves are much easier to remove. While

everyone else runs to the bathroom to wash their hair closing the blinds on the way, you will plump yours up grab your handbag and heels and strut your stuff and braid out to Prosecco and afternoon tea. n https://bignannyshairproducts.co.uk

BIG NANNY’S ORIGINAL HAIR OIL CONTAINS A WONDERFUL BLEND OF NATURAL OILS WITH INGREDIENTS SUCH AS COCONUT OIL, CASTOR OIL AND SHEA BUTTER, AMONGST OTHERS.

BIG NANNY’S HAIR OIL WAS DEVELOPED OVER THE COURSE OF 60 YEARS AND IS NOW USED BY 4 GENERATIONS OF HER FAMILY, FOR WHOM IT WAS ORIGINALLY CREATED.

OUR NEW KINGS AND QUEENS RECIPE INCLUDES TEA TREE OIL, TO HELP SOFTEN AND MANAGE YOUR BEAUTIFUL KINKY HAIR.

THESE AMAZING FAMILY RECIPES WILL HELP YOU TO ACHIEVE THE BEST RESULTS FOR BOTH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY’S TRESSES.

www.bignannyshairproducts.co.uk @BIGNannyshairproducts |

bignannyshairproducts | EMAIL: bignannyshairproducts@gmail.com

07930 341 627

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UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Nia Ballerina is a UK based company and we have designed musical jewellery boxes with black ballerinas. We first launched our music boxes in August 2016, and currently sell our boxes worldwide direct to consumers from our own website. We also have a number of independent retailers located in Europe, the USA and Canada who stock our boxes. Nia Ballerina is the inspiration of my own daughter, and her absolute love for ballet from the age of before she was even 3 years. As any mother, I wanted to support my daughter in her passion and began to take an interest in the ballet industry. It became obvious that ballerinas from diverse backgrounds were

and still are hugely underrepresented within the industry. I felt it was vitally important that my daughter saw images of herself as a ballerina, and one way to achieve this for children is by the toys they play with and books they read. My mother had brought my daughter a jewellery box with a ballerina figurine, however I did not understand why the ballerina did not resemble my daughter! I wanted my daughter to have a music box with a ballerina that looked like her, and had presumed music boxes with black ballerinas were readily available.

NIA BALLERINA

The Perfect Keep sake Gift Every little girl should have their own keepsake box. Nia Ballerina is the perfect gift no matter what the occasion!

info@niaballerina.com 0121 647 3759 www.niaballerina.com

THE SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

Your Life In Your Hands

By Shirley Powell Shirley Powell is the founder of Your Life in Your Hands, a Registered Nurse with 36 years’ experience working in the NHS and independent healthcare sector. We focus on early detection, preventive health care and equipping individuals with the tools they need to take control of their lives, physical and mental well-being, empowering them to reach their full health potential. We also work with other practitioners to offer holistic health, natural treatments, and remedies. We offer a mobile health service to individuals targeting those aged over 35 years who may be at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes while raising health awareness. We bring healthcare to your door and offer a personalised assessment with immediate feedback on your current health status to enable you to take action and make informed choices about your health and lifestyle. We also work in partnership with businesses and community organisations, to offer health screening for their staff and provide advice specific to their health including information on how to boost their immune system. Some of the benefits working with Your Life in Your Hands include: • 30-minute Free Consultation • Comprehensive health assessment and lifestyle review • Full medication review (if applicable) • Immediate blood tests results • Free membership to our health management club, nutritional advice, and ongoing health review to maintain lifestyle changes

H ELPING YOU LIVE AND STAY WE LL

HE A LTH MA NA GE ME NT HE A LTHY E ATI NG A DV IC E HE A LTH ASSE SSME NT LI FE STYLE MA NA GE ME NT Adding years to your life... Find out how we can help you

07932 249 497 yourlifeinyourhands.co.uk info@yourlifeinyourhands.co.uk

THE SOUTH WEST

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

FOLLOWING MY JOY AND DOING WHAT I LOVE Fiona Morrison (creator of Fefus Designs), is a British-Jamaican illustrator and surface pattern designer. Her passion for Art and Design started at a very young age. After studying Fashion Design and Technology, Fiona went on to work in both the fashion industry and retail stores and has recently pursued her dream of becoming a freelance illustrator and designer.

Fefus Designs was born through Fionaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s observation of a lack of representation and diversity in popular characters and images reflected in childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion and merchandise. FeFus Designs offers a range of cute, eye catching and vibrant merchandise and art for children with a strong emphasis on diverse characters.

FEFUS DESIGNS

THE SOUTH WEST

MAKING SATISFIED CUSTOMERS FOR 32 YEARS

UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21

ISSUE NO.

Britain’s

top black

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- 17, 2019

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CLEAR CEILING: Reuben Simon of Ref Support UK is trying to help bring more black referees to football

Community honours a football legend

Eventgoer

E.CO.UK

Ismail Ahmed: The pioneer who changed an industry

OFFICIATE: Uriah Rennie is the only black referee in the history of the Premier League

Carnival 2019

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Story continues

- 21, 2019

WHERE AR E THE BLACK RE FEREES?

www.v

Pic credit:

UK BLACKGUIDE

2019-20

BUSINESS ISSUE 2

AMAZING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Not old enough to drive or vote but running their own successful companies

...for UK black business es

African & Caribbean Food & Restaurant Guide 2019-20 A Voice Media Group Publication

Learprint is a well established family owned business based in the Midlands. We are very proud to have provided a professional service to customers throughout the country for 32 years. Our core business is printing as well as the provision of all kinds of stationery. We strive at all times to provide an efficient and cost effective service to our customers who are corporate and private individuals. Our designs include but are not limited to magazines, funeral programmes, company letterheads, business cards, notebooks, posters, flyers and invitations. We can print in quantities from 100’s to 1,000’s. Our personalised service gives us a keen understanding of what our clients require and thus enables us to guarantee a quality service with a quick turnaround.

LEARPRINT

WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT! 26 year old Asher builds his own carpentry business

This team of high proﬁ le investors believe the next Google or Airbnb will come from our communit y - EXCLUSIVE Page 4

The Voice Black Business Guide 2020-21

Articles inside

Do South

Natalie Josephs

The Black farmer

Amazing achievement

Support black businesses

Mother and daughter

Black business update

Swiss