The Voice Newspaper: September 2023 by thevoicemediagroup

£2.50 | SEPTEMBER, 2023 • ISSUE NO. 1946

Black on the Square Celebrating our culture 2 Sept, 12-6pm, Trafalgar Square LDN

FUTURE IS AFRICAN FEATURING: Bea Anderson, The Spit Game, and Melica

PAGE 9

Young Africans are the undisputed trendmakers of 2023 in the arts, business, music and sports

FROM BUSINESS to activism, sports to arts, journalism to music, African is young talent is increasingly dominating the world stage.

The continent has a median age of just 18, compared to Europe’s 44, so it’s no wonder the future is African.

We are the future! African and Caribbean journalists tell their stories 12 page Commonwealth Youth supplement p19-30

Inside THIS MONTH

Somali mums rebel Protests over council housing ‘bias’ p5

ROUNDUP NEWSPAPER

News, views, stories & videos

The Voice says

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

1. Guyana demands reparations

Latest Caribbean country to seek justice

2. Bristol shafted its Black mayor… again

Questions over Marvin Rees’ treatment

Dawn of a new era Dawn Butler opens up about her journey

3. Europeans benefit from Windrush Home Office citizenship scheme sidelines Jamaicans

‘They don’t understand us’ L’Myah Sherae on the Windrush Scandal p8 Eyongakpa speaks out Artist Em’kal being led by his heart

4. Black kids seven times more likely to drown

Researchers blame Afro hair for lack of swimming

5. Where is Bradford’s Black community? New City of Culture used to have thriving neighbourhood

6. £18 trillion — pay up now

Our frontpage story from last month on reparations report

7. Cops most want a ruck with Black people

p36

Met police authorise batons only for Black-led events

Resilience and liberation Landmark exhibition explores Black Atlantic p38 Tough as they come First Black women to row across Pacific p47

8. GRM Gala hits new heights

All the glitz and glam from this years awards ceremony

9. Cops are out of control

Activists lay down agenda for policing reform

10. Shabaka will stay in our hearts Tribute to a legend

This issue is 48 pages

Housing crisis is a Black issue

HOUSING IS a Black issue. Of course, it’s an issue for everyone but the facts don’t lie; Black families are three times more likely to be homeless. We are massively overrepresented in the rental sector with council, housing association and private landlords. And we are much less likely to own our own home. In this edition, we highlight the frustration of Somali women who are out on the streets protesting against what they see as Tower Hamlets council “de-prioritising” their families in need of rehousing due to damp and mould. A survey earlier this year found a third of homes have mould. Social housing campaigner Kwajo Tweneboa has done wonders to highlight the issue, and it is notable how most of the families he visits are Black. Not because he seeks them out, but because that is the reality. The tragic death of toddler Awaab Ishak in Rochdale due to mould sent shockwaves through Britain and led to a new law. Yet the measures are weak, and the issue of racism is largely unacknowledged. It is commonplace for council officers to dismiss mould as being caused by ‘cultural practices’, telling the tenants to just open the windows or giving a lick of paint which mould simply grows through. The private rented sector is no better, with non-white tenants being twice as likely to report having experienced “illegal acts” from landlords. The Government has, to its credit, outlawed no-fault evictions, which is a major cause of homelessness. But more action is needed. With private rents rocketing and landlords effectively auctioning flats to the highest bidder for rents, Black families are once again likely to lose out due to having less income as a result of systemic racism in the jobs market. So what are the solutions? We need to raise the rates of home ownership to have more assets to pass down the generations. And we need to look at pooling our resources to buy property, as other communities have done and the Caribbean community used to do with pardners. We also need a massive social house-building programme from the Government, and a revival in Black housing associations to run our fair share of homes in order to deal with the racial disparities. Black mothers, fearing for the lives of their children, should not have to come out on the streets with placards for society to wake up to the Black housing crisis. It is time for authorities to act.

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SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 3

News Feature

Battle for Bob Marley beach

‘DEEP CONNECTION’: Norman with father, renowned Rastafari elder Gladstone Stephenson, on the beach

Future of sacred land in the balance as Black Brit fights luxury resort development. EXCLUSIVE by Sinai Fleary

BRITISH JAMAICAN is suing a company to stop them ‘bulldozing’ his family’s land on Bob Marley beach in Jamaica. Norman Stephenson, from St Paul’s, Bristol, says his family will not be bullied off their 2.79 acres of beach in the Bull Bay area. He is fighting to protect three acres on the famous beach in St Thomas from becoming a £160 million luxury hotel resort. Stephenson said he has been fully supported by members of the Marley Family and said Ziggy, Cedella, Sharon and Stephen Marley have all assisted him in some way. Stephenson, whose father lived on the beach for over 50 years, told The Voice the hotel plans would destroy the cultural and religious heritage of the beach. The row comes after campaigners said ordinary Jamaicans were being shut out of their own beaches because hotels only wanted wealthy tourists. Stephens o n ’ s case is currently being heard in Jamaica’s Supreme Court. He says he has been paying land tax since 2008, but the developers dispute his ownership of the idyllic beach. Reggae icon Bob Marley, inset, often visited the beach leading it to be named after the late legend. Stephenson wants the land protected as a cultural heritage site because it was also home to one of the earliest Rastafari communities in Jamaica after many fled major cities following persecution and harassment from colonial government authorities. The land was also believed to be a hideout for runaway slave Three-Fingered Jack, who went on to form a Maroon community on the island. Stephenson’s father, renowned Rastafari elder Gladstone Stephenson — also known as Bongo Gabby — was a spiritual mentor. Stephenson, director of Afi Dance — a company that promotes health and wellbeing

through African dance and drumming — told The Voice about his deep connection to the beach. “I always felt like this beach needed protection [but] because of my father’s staunch Rastafarian beliefs of not dealing with Babylon he didn’t have the correct papers for the beach. “The land is absolutely beautiful and it was hidden, nobody really knew about it, only the locals, but this was the beach where Bob Marley and The Wailers lived.” In 1992, he travelled to Jamaica and found his father, who he says was an “original Nyahbinghi” and they developed a relationship over the next 16 years — before he sadly passed away in January 2007. Before his father died, Stephenson says he was given permission to apply for the “proper papers to protect everything”. In 2008, he took on the task of trying to secure the b e a c h land and started to pay land tax for the plot in “small parts”. Stephenson, who travels back to Jamaica from the UK every year, claims whenever he went to the land tax office there was a “major problem” and a lot of confusion as “they were not able to keep consistent records”. Rastafarians’ connection with Bob Marley beach goes back to 1958 when several Rastas were arrested and killed by British colonial police for possession of cannabis — a plant used as a religious sacrament. Five years later, the Coral Gardens Massacre occurred in Jamaica, which saw hundreds of Rastafarians detained and attacked, as police searched for three Rastas who they claimed burned down a gas station. The incident resulted in a huge state crackdown on Rastas. It is estimated 150 ‘beard men’ were arrested, with many others beaten, killed or had their locks forcibly cut and trimmed. Many Rastafarians fled the city and found safety and peace on the beach with Stephenson’s

father. According to Stephenson, the original owner, Leslie Wright, allowed his father and the Rastafarians to live on the land “undisturbed” and never “bothered him” when he was building his home or a Tabernacle on the land. In October 2020, Stephenson went to Jamaica and hired several lawyers who were assisting him with the case. Stephenson was born in Red Hills, St Catherine, and came to the United Kingdom in 1964. His lawyer in the Supreme Court case, Marcus Goffe, said his client had paid “over one million Jamaican dollars maintaining, repairing, renovating and proving the property, as well as on surveys, land valuation and payment of land taxes.” He added: “Those are just the receipts he was able to locate after so many years spending on the property since 2008.” An official Government of Jamaica receipt seen by The Voice, shows that Mr Stephenson paid tax totalling over $205,000 Jamaican dollars (£1,048) for tax

years 2018/19 and 2019/20. However, in March 2020, he claims when he logged in online to make a further payment, using his Taxpayer Registration number (TRN) — a unique Tax ID — he saw the name of a company as owners of the land, who are now ordering his family to leave. The company ordered the residents to leave by October last year, which they have refused to do. In July, the company was given the go-ahead to begin construction on 210 acres of land, which includes the contested Bob Marley beach. The Voice contacted the company several times and they did not respond to our request for a statement. Goffe said situations like this are “very common” but many do not reach the courts because “the title owners just bulldoze and forcibly evict the so-called squatters, most of whom are unaware of their rights or how to enforce them”. Goffe says the issues of land ownership for descendants of enslaved African people in

Jamaica is a direct legacy of slavery, as African people were not legally granted any land when they achieved full freedom. He added: “Instead there wasreparations (£20 million) paid by the British Government of Jamaica to the slave owners and later the imposition of the Torrens land system on the legal system and the landless victims of slavery. “Hence the majority of Jamaicans who are descendants of those victims of slavery remain landless, treated as squatters on other people’s lands.” The Voice contacted the National Land Agency, which holds

SUPPORT: Left to right, Sharon Marley, Rita Marley, Stephen Marley, Ziggy Marley and Cedella Marley are backing Norman Stephenson (photo: Getty Images)

the records of registered owners of land in Jamaica. They said the matter would be investigated and a “comprehensive response” would be provided, but so far no further information has been received. The company offered alternative land of three acres in the same area but not on or near the beach and it was “stoney ground and rubbish” — so Stephenson refused the offer. There are approximately 30 people currently living on the beach, including the Stephenson family, which has been earmarked for development. Dr Devon Taylor is the president of Campaign group Jamaica Beach Birthright Environmental Movement (JABBEM). He believes the beach should be a designated heritage site due to the historic and longstanding presence of the Rastafari community in the Sugar Loaf Mountain and Bully Bay areas. He said: “Norman’s father was important in the establishment and maintenance of the Rastafari way of life and tradition. That site carries significant importance and significant heritage which should be preserved.”

4 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

News Feature

More Europeans benefit from Windrush than Jamaicans SHOW OF SUPPORT: Stand Up To Racism protest on behalf of the Windrush generation

Citizenship figures “diabolical” amid warning of a fresh scandal. EXCLUSIVE by Sinai Fleary

ORE PEOPLE from European countries have benefited from the Home Office’s Windrush scheme than Jamaicans, The Voice can reveal. Windrush justice campaigner Patrick Vernon blasted the findings as “diabolical.” Vernon also slammed the Government for rejecting Windrush applicants applying for British citizenship if they are judged to “be of bad character” or have a criminal record. Latest Home Office figures show that 4,722 European Union (EU) nationals got British citizenship through the Windrush process, compared to just 3,416 Jamaicans. The data, up to the

first quarter of 2023, showed that 2,067 people from other Caribbean countries were granted their status, out of 16,200 people overall who got their papers. Leading campaigners say this is another example that the system is “fundamentally flawed” and needs urgent reform. Speaking to The Voice, Vernon said: “It further reinforces racial inequality, particularly for those from the Windrush generation.” He added: “It is diabolical that despite all this money that has been spent on the EU Settlement Scheme, it’s easier for someone who is an EU national and has been in Britain for a long time to go through the Windrush Taskforce. I suspect a lot of those

applications have been rejected, because they introduced extra criteria; if you have a criminal record or are deemed of bad character then they will not process your status.” Applications made by people from West African countries have even lower numbers. Only 453 people from Nigeria had their status secured and just 158 peo-

ple from a Ghanaian background were given documentation. Vernon said: “It highlights no efforts have been made to engage with the African community around their status in the UK or internationally.” Vernon is demanding that all Windrush scandal victims to be given automatic status in Britain. In May 2018, the Windrush

scheme was launched to ensure members of the Windrush generation could get the documentation they need to prove their right to be in the UK, free of charge. The Home Office says the Windrush scheme is for anyone who came to the UK from a Commonwealth country before 1973, or your parents or grandparents

came to the UK from a Commonwealth country before 1973. But it is also open for people who came to the UK from any country before December 31, 1988 and are now settled here. Vernon believes the latest figures could give rise to a further scandal with those who have been refused status on these grounds being deported. The Home Office told The Voice: “No enforcement action is taken against individuals whose status is under review by the Windrush Help Team, or who have an ongoing Windrush (Status) Scheme application.” The department also added there are a “variety of reasons why applications under the Windrush Status Scheme can be rejected. “Some people may have been granted status, but then go on to have a citizenship application rejected. Rejection does not necessarily mean an individual does not have status.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE

| 5

News Feature

Somali women demonstrate over homes ‘discrimination’ Tower Hamlets Council accused of keeping Black families in mould-ridden flats. By Leah Mahon

OMALIS IN east London claim they are being “deprioritised” for social housing over other ethnic groups. Somali women have been protesting outside council offices in Tower Hamlets, which is run by a mayor and cabinet composed exclusively of Bangladeshi men. Data seen by The Voice shows that just 217 Somali families have been given homes in the last five years. The Somalis say many of their families with small children are stuck in substandard accommodation, including flats riddled with mould. They accuse mayor Lutfer Rahman and his council of “institutional racism” Councils argue their housing allocation systems are ‘colourblind’ because offers are made purely on the basis of need. Nadia, 37, told The Voice she has been on the housing waiting list for four years because of overcrowding and mould in her home. The mum-of-five, a carer for her 85-year-old disabled mother with deteriorating heart failure, said the conditions in her flat were intolerable. “Every time they come, [workers sent by the council], they wash [the walls], they paint over it, but the same problem is occurring. “An inspector came to my

CLAIMS: Tower Hamlets mayor Lutfur Rahman

Nobody is in front of me but every time I’m not getting the house house and said the brick is the problem and needs a lot of money to do this work and I don’t think the council will spend that kind of money.” Nadia said the air she and her family are breathing in everyday is toxic and the smell from the damp and mould is “horrendous,” forcing her to open her

windows even with the heating on. She added: “When they found out the condition of the house was not liveable, they put me in emergency Band A; I am the first priority. So as a high priority, every house I bid for I’m number one, nobody is in front of me but every time I’m not getting the house. “Someone is getting the house and I’m thinking, how does that work? I also emailed them, [Tower Hamlets council] and they would say something about my mum’s mobility, all these other stupid reasons. There is a big problem at Tower Hamlets.” Continued on page 6

‘DEPRIORITISED’: Somali women protest outside Tower Hamlets Council offices; inset, mould in the flat of a Somali council tenant in the borough

Byron Dixon: The entrepreneur taking on mould

MICRO-FRESH is award winning technology incorporated into fabrics and leather to make them antimicrobial and germ- and odour-free for their lifetime. Its founder, entrepreneur Byron Dixon OBE, has won a host of accolades. After devising a way of preventing mould growth on goods in transit, Micro-Fresh is widely used in the footwear industry and has been adopted by major retailers to prevent odours, reduce wash temperatures and enhance the life of everyday items such as clothes, shoes and bedding. But now Dixon is turning his

entrepreneurial talents to solving a problem affecting the health of millions of social housing tenants and, sadly in some cases, has proved fatal. Complaints about damp and leaks doubled among England’s social housing tenants according to figures from the housing ombudsman. There were over 5,300 complaints in

2021-22, up from under 2,000 in 2020-21. However, the issue hit the national headlines following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak. A coroner found that Awaab’s death from respiratory illness was due to persistent mould in their rented Rochdale flat. It was these issues that inspired Dixon to see if Micro-

Fresh could be applied to social housing properties that are often plagued with mould on walls and ceilings. “We tested Micro-Fresh in construction with the Health & Safety Executive in 2014 and with Aston University in 2015,” he said. “The results were fascinating that it works to stop mould growth.” He continued: “We parked it for eight years until last year I got a call about the inquest into the shocking case of Awaab Ishak. A number of people insisted we revisit this research and relaunch this as it tackles mould in hous-

ing because it’s such a massive problem and we know that many tenants in social housing are Black. So that’s what we’ve done. “We’ve renamed it Home-Fresh which stops the growth of mould on walls and windows. “Since January, we’ve been talking to councils, housing associations, private landlords and government, because it’s proven technology. “Killing mould is easy, the major problem everyone knows is to stop it coming back. With Home-Fresh on the surface, mould won’t grow back for up to 12 months.”

| THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

The Big Interview

Dawn Butler: ‘Truth matters’ A TOUGH PAST: MP Dawn Butler has outlined the trials and tribulations of her life so far in her new book, A Purposeful Life, inset below

Trailblazing MP opens up about her childhood and taking on the police. By Lester Holloway

OON AFTER becoming an MP in 2015, Dawn Butler recalls talking to local youths in her Brent constituency after dark, when suddenly a police car pulled up with ‘blues and twos’ flashing. Her first instinct was to run, and that’s what she did. But then she thought, ‘Hold on, I’m the MP!’ – so she stopped and walked back to the officers, who were at first suspicious about who she said she was. Butler is sitting in her cramped parliamentary office standing out from the surroundings with a bright dress she put on for an earlier photoshoot to promote her new book, A Purposeful Life, which was released last month. She laughs when recalling the late night incident, but is serious about the issue of reforming police. “When I was 18, I got a letter of apology from the police, which I thought was amazing that I managed to do that. But actually, it didn’t change anything. It made me feel that I had accomplished something but really it stopped me from pursuing a change in the system. And so that’s why I don’t just accept a letter of apology now.” That incident was when she witnessed her brother being

We were surrounded by three police cars with flashing lights roughly arrested despite the fact that he was being attacked by a white neighbour armed with a knife. Three years ago, Butler hit the headlines after she filmed officers who stopped a car she and a friend were riding in. If she was hoping to draw attention to the problem of stop and search, what transpired was a huge backlash against her on social media laced with a large dose of racism. She goes into some detail about the aftermath in her book. Not about the haters, but the year-long struggle she entered into with senior Met officers to get them to admit they had made a mistake. “I mean, they took away my liberty that day. We were surrounded by three police cars with flashing lights, people walking past, slowing down to have a look, because obviously it looked like a big bust.” Her tenancy in getting to the

truth wasn’t for her own benefit, but as a lesson-learning exercise for the police. Instead, she was accused by many rightwingers of lying about the encounter. The accusation of lying stung, not only because Butler was telling the truth – and had video evidence – but also because being disbelieved was a lifelong lived experience. The opening chapter of her book is entitled Cockroaches Don’t Fly after a teacher at school refused to believe that she had seen the insect fly on a Caribbean holiday, and sent the eight-year-old Butler out of class as punishment.

TRUTH

It wasn’t to be the last time Butler was sent out of class for telling the truth. In 2021, the Speaker of the House of Commons ordered the Labour MP out of the chamber for calling thenprime minister Boris Johnson a liar and refusing to retract it. Butler, displaying a stubbornness honed from youth, refused to give ground and had to leave the parliamentary estate for the day. While everyone knew Johnson was a habitual liar, the fact that he was forced to resign as an MP proves Butler was right all along. Not that she’s expecting any

apology there. Her experience as an MP has been a bittersweet one. She takes enormous pride in getting wins for her constituents, and in her political achievements – such as being the first Black woman to speak at the dispatch box and the first Black woman minister, while in Gordon Brown’s Cabinet. But she has also faced her

battles in the Mother of Parliaments. She has previously spoken about being mistaken for a cleaner by a Tory MP (again Butler was accused by racists of lying), but that’s not half of it. “I was waiting for four or five hours to speak in parliament and I needed to go to the loo, so I spoke to the speaker and she said your name’s not on the list. I said I’d seen my name

there! Then she said I’d spoken too many times. “I hadn’t, but we are hyper visible when it suits them, and also we are invisible at the same time. She remembers me speaking so in her head she’s thinking, I’m always speaking!” Read the full interview at voiceonline.co.uk. A Purposeful Life by Dawn Butler is published by Torva

Tower Hamlets mould scandal: Children’s asthma pumps every night Continued from page 5

Tower Hamlets Council, which has over 30,000 social homes, is now facing the prospect of legal action from angry residents. Freedom of Information requests found that between 2018 and 2023, 3,798 houses were given to Bengali residents, while 266 were offered to residents from African backgrounds, of which 217 are Somalis. Rahman, a former Labour mayor who won power in 2018 with his Aspire party following the end of his ban from public office over a series of scandals, has been praised for his socialist policies like free school meals. But for some he remains controversial and his Aspire party was criticised for its lack of diversity. Labour’s Black and Asian

councillors have flatly rebuffed Rahman’s overtures to join his cabinet made up of nine Bangladeshi men from Aspire. Ayaan*, a mother-of-five and a carer for her elderly mother, told The Voice she also cares for her 12-year-old son who has special needs while living in an unfit home. “I’ve got a lot of issues. I’ve got mould, I’ve got damp [in the house] and ceilings leaking from my bedroom to the sitting room. “We’re on the fourth floor with no lift, with special needs children and my other two children have health conditions. One has got skin disease, another’s got asthma. Every night she’s coughing constantly. I have to give her asthma pumps because of the damp and mould.” Ayaan says she has now spent

almost four years in temporary accommodation which has left her “emotionally, physically and socially broken down”. Somalis, who make up two per cent of the borough’s population, are being supported by local campaign group Coffee Afrique, who have held a series of meetings with council officials. Abdirahim Hussain, a campaigner with the group, pictured inset, said: “Black citizens are being treated like second class citizens over the Bengali community in Tower Hamlets. We’ve got a good core of women that are still really angry and fighting, and we’ve got

some who are really exhausted and mentally broken. “That really saddens me. The reality is this is what the system has been designed to do; to frustrate, for people to give up, but we are still going strong, but the question is for how long?” Tower Hamlets said they had not received complaints over housing discrimination but would investigate any they received. A council spokesperson said: “We have over 23,000 households on our housing register, and it is very important that our allocations process is fair to all residents. Housing allocations are prioritised based on those

in most urgent housing need which never considers ethnic background as a factor, and applicants are placed into relevant bands in date order. “There is an acute shortage of council homes in Tower Hamlets, particularly family-sized homes, and families in genuine housing need face long waits for suitable properties. Around one in six households in our borough are classed as overcrowded, which is three times the national average, and above the inner London average where overcrowding levels are typically high. The council said mayor Rahman was unavailable to speak to, but he had recently hired a Somali-heritage aide.

*Names have been changed to protect identities

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 7

Opening doors to a bright future

Despite the strikes, schools are still turning the ordinary into extraordinary, writes educationalist Darell J. Philip

ERE BEGINS the start of a new academic year and with it the end of school strikes with the majority of members within the teaching union having accepted a 6.5 per cent pay rise. Often unrecognised, yet working just as passionately, are school support staff such as teaching assistants and academic mentors who have also accepted a pay rise which is hoped will lessen the current financial burden forcing them. Some are forced to take on second jobs or, in some cases, even leaving the education sector completely. It is remarkable that while Britain ranks as having the fifth biggest economy in the world, its public service workers have up to now been some of the lowest paid. While, for now, the dust has seemingly begun to settle on school strikes, the spotlight will now focus heavily on Ofsted, in light of the tragic death of headteacher, Ruth Perry, after her school was downgraded from “outstanding” to “inadequate” by inspectors. In light of such issues, one would be hard pressed to refute there being a sense of pessimism in education. Yet, when it’s at its best, education from childhood to adulthood can and often is a passport to life; opening doors of opportunity for those who aspire to build a better life for themselves, their families and community, and paving a legacy for younger generations. Having come through the recent academic years dominated by school closures due to the global pandemic, on a personal note it was a refreshing end to the academic year for many educational institutions including my own, where the school community were delighted to see children successfully reach

the end of another school year. It was particularly encouraging to see the rise of one of my primary aged students through the development of his own business created during lockdown which brought him a Trulittle Entrepreneur Hero Award (7-11) last year. Whilst browsing the stores in the Westfield Stratford Branch with my nephew, I took great pride in pointing out to him the brand consisting of stationery and clothing created by my student from last year, as we looked with interest at all the inspirational items on display in the Black Pound Day Store, The familiar saying within many African-Caribbean homes, that it takes a village to raise a child, really does ring true here. A united school community in which teachers, support staff, external educational professionals, parents and most importantly the students themselves have a voice and are given opportunities to actualise and fulfil their potential is what true education is and should be about. In a year in which UNISON has designated as the Year of the Black Worker, it is hoped that there will be a real drive in the recruitment of more Black teachers including at senior leadership levels, the implementation of a Black curriculum, and unconscious bias training for all educational professionals. Only time will tell if this academic year will be remembered for all the right reasons, yet we owe it to ourselves to dream big and grab with both hands any opportunity we are given to receive an education which can build within the student a self-esteem, purpose and resilient spirit which cannot be taken away. Darell J. Philip is a teaching assistant, academic mentor and freelance journalist

News Feature FULFILLING POTENTIAL: We owe it to ourselves to dream big and give children an opportunity to shine (photo: creativeart/freepik)

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8 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

L’Myah Sherae

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

Home Office letting down the Windrush community

Government compensation scheme has failed to right all the wrongs, and means the fight for justice will continue

HE GOVERNMENT is set to scale back its Windrush compensation scheme because it’s not getting enough applicants. We cannot allow the Home Office to get away with this. I recently went to the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton to watch Barrel Children: The Families Windrush Left Behind, created by award-winning journalist Nadine White. The film peels back the tales of Caribbean youngsters who grew up away from their parents before migrating to join them in Britain, centring the children’s stories of reconciliation and rediscovery within a new world that made little sense to them. It was an incredible film that made me reflect on my own heritage. My great grandmother and great grandfather came to Britain in the 1950s, bringing their seven beautiful children with them, all the way from St Kitts to the UK. My great grandmother then gave birth to two more children in England — one of which is my grandmother. She always tells me hilarious stories of growing up in a household with so many siblings. And

the Caribbean customs and practices that shaped her upbringing are ones that I hold on to dearly now — many of which I hope to pass down one day to my future children too. Despite this, I think we’re all well aware that the 1950s decade was not all sunshine and roses for Windrush communities. In fact, the Home Office destroyed thousands of landing card slips recording Windrush migrants’ arrival dates in the UK, despite staff warnings that this would make it harder to check the records of older Caribbean-born residents experiencing housing and employment difficulties. Then, in 2017, the ‘Windrush scandal’ emerged, when it became widely apparent that thousands of Black Britons from the Windrush generation had been wrongly detained, deported and denied legal rights. In more recent years, the Home Office has said it was “committed to righting the wrongs of Windrush”, but the government’s compensation scheme that was established to right these wrongs is still failing the same generation — as shown by Human Rights Watch, only 12.8 per cent of the

INCREDIBLE: The film Barrel Children: The Families Windrush Left Behind highlights what many youngsters had to endure

FIGHT GOES ON: Protesters mark the first official Windrush Day in 2019 by dropping by dropping banners from Westminster Bridge with a message demanding justice for members of the Windrush generation (photo: Getty Images)

estimated 11,500 eligible claimants have been compensated. That is why in June on Windrush Day, my non-profit organisation Enact Equality launched a national campaign to push the UK Government to pay Black Britons the Windrush compensation they deserve. We sent a letter to the Home Office, which was co-signed by a variety of political leaders, celebrities and organisations, including Labour MP Marsha de Cordova, Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock, crossbench Peer Lord Simon Woolley, celebrity chef Levi Roots, the Black Cultural Archives, and The Voice’s very own editor Lester Holloway, among many more. We made sure that our cosignatories spanned a range of age groups and professions, all with significant influence in their respective fields. But despite our considerable efforts, we were left disappointed by the

L’Myah Sherae is founder of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Race Equality in Education

Government’s response. In fact, rather than commit to working with us to improve the compensation scheme, Lord Murray, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Migration and Borders, wrote back to us with more discouraging news. He stated that the Government’s projections for the number of victims now expected to get compensation would be reduced because “significantly fewer claims than initially anticipated have been received”. Equally worrying, when discussing the hardships that Black Britons have faced due to not being able to demonstrate their lawful status, Lord Murray stated that “many of them have not suffered losses or detriment”. In my opinion, the Home Office has made it pretty clear that it does not understand the needs and experiences of the Windrush community. For the

Their contribution to society has a positive impact on all our lives department to say that many Black Britons have not suffered losses or detriment is just tone deaf, and completely disregards the real, lived experiences of thousands of Black Britons here in the UK. I am also disappointed that the Home Office rejected the opportunity to meet with organisations and experts who have first-hand experience of working with the Windrush generation, which we offered in our letter. It simply shows the continued lack of action and

accountability from the Home Office department. While the Government’s response to our campaign has been disappointing (to say the least!), this doesn’t mean that we’ll stop fighting for justice. The Windrush generation shouldn’t only be at the forefront of our minds on Windrush Day — their contribution to society continues to have a positive impact on our lives every day. But do you know what’s also continued? The Home Office’s exploitation of Caribbean communities — and the ongoing treatment of Black Britons as disposable. It’s time for us to truly think about how we can change this relationship, to ensure that we receive the equitable treatment we deserve. It’s not only about gaining justice for the Windrush generation, but it’s also about shifting the dynamic to protect the next generation of Black children, too.

ART

MUSIC

FOOD

DANCE

FASHION

Saturday 2 September | 12-6pm Trafalgar Square | Free Event Celebrate Black culture and creativity with music, spoken word and dance at Black on the Square, brought to you by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan in collaboration with London’s Black communities. With food, fantastic performances and a photo exhibition looking at the Black British experience—you won’t want to miss it.

Discover more at london.gov.uk/events/black-square-2023 #BlackOnTheSquare #LondonForEveryone

10 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Lyndon Mukasa Eye on the Diaspora

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

Rebellion in West Africa Does the coup in Niger represent a new anti-colonial struggle across the continent?

EMBERS OF the presidential guard led by General Omar Abdourahmane Tchiani detained the elected President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, in July. The implications of the coup are very significant in a region battling with increasing instability from terrorist groups such as ISIS and al-Qaeda. Threats from West African states, including Nigeria, could divide the region further along political lines which could complicate efforts at long term regional cooperation on issues such as security, economic development and the climate crisis. The coup has so far been met with strong support from many Nigeriens and people in the African diaspora who want greater security and an end to neo-colonialism. Living standards in the West African country have not increased much since independence from France in 1960 with average life expectancy stalling at 55 years, 43 per cent of the population living on less than US$1.00 a day, and 37 per cent of the population being illiterate. Despite over 60 years of Western aid, the country remains the second

least developed country in the world. There have been protests outside of the French embassy and the junta have threatened the closure of military bases in France which has a significant military presence in the country. This has resulted in a swift response from the West African regional bloc the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which fears that the coup will spur further insecurity in West Africa and the Sahel.

TROUBLED TIMES: Mohamed Toumba, one of the leading figures of the National Council for the Protection of the Fatherland, attends a demonstration of coup supporters in Niamey, the capital of Niger; below, Mohamed Bazoum has been detained by the junta (photo: Getty Images)

AUTHORITY

ECOWAS, which was led by its largest member Nigeria, has imposed economic sanctions, cut off electricity to the country and threatened military intervention on two occasions if Bazoum was not restored. Military invasion has not yet occurred, calling in to question the authority and effectiveness of ECOWAS. This has led to a re-emphasis on more diplomatic measures being taken. President Bazoum is set to be charged with high treason and undermining the internal and external security of the country. Niger has been supported by the governments of Mali and Burkina Faso, which have also

had coups in previous years. They have pledged military support against any invasion and all three countries have been looking at various ways of cooperation — militarily and economically. There is a lot of debate about why the coup has happened and what the long term consequences will be for the West African country. On one hand, ECOWAS member states and Western countries such as France and the United States have condemned the coup as an attack on democracy and an attempt by the military to exploit the weakening security situation and worsening economic prospects for power. They argue that this will do more to facilitate political instability across borders which terrorist groups could benefit from. Supporters of the coup argue that democracy was illusionary under a leadership that to some was perceived as a puppet government that supported Western interests against the interests of the country. They point to the military presence of Western powers that has seemingly failed to

curb violence and instability. They point to the fact that Western multinationals regularly negotiate secret trade deals with the Nigerien government to extract natural resources such as uranium while very little profit seems to disperse into the country.

RESENTMENT

They highlight the ongoing parasitic relationship with France which is maintained through the CFA Franc zone. The junta has drawn on resentment stemming from antiFrench sentiment that has been building for a number of years in Niger and across other former French West and Central African countries. This stems from the French and the West for creating increased insecurity across West Africa and the Sahel. Following the 2011 Natoled invasion of Libya, there was a proliferation in weapons from Libya that spread to many armed groups across West Africa, such as ISIS, Boko Haram, al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Tuareg rebels. This combined with frequent

Lyndon Mukasa is a writer and researcher. He studied International Development at the London School of Economics.

droughts as a result of the climate crisis has led to a swift deterioration in security across the region in the 2010s. The ineffectiveness of a seemingly modern and advanced French military — of which up to 1,500 are stationed in Niger — has fuelled rumours among ordinary people that French intervention was more about protecting French assets and resources and managing migration to Europe, as opposed to maintaining any significant level of security. Many people in Niger are concerned about the possibility of military conflict with its neighbours as well as the disruption to power and food supplies that the coup has already created. The Democratic Confederation of Workers Niger, the country’s largest trade union, has condemned the coup and demanded a return to the order outlined in the constitution. However the Trade Union Action Unit (UAS Niger) is supportive of the coup and has encouraged Nigeriens to stand with the junta in resisting foreign aggression. This division is rooted in the ambiguity of the

junta’s long-term goals for reform in the country. While this coup draws on very legitimate anti-colonial grievances and there are serious economic issues to address, it is unclear at this stage how the junta is going to go about this.

POWERS

Early, but not definitive telltale signs, indicate that powers like the United States are not as concerned as France or the EU in part because segments of the US Government believe that their drone base (the largest in the world) is not under significant threat. US officials believe that eventually a harmonising of a relationship between the country and the Niger junta could be formed, just as with previous coups. Moreover the flirtations with Russian support (while made bigger than it is by western media) is not the revolutionary action that is needed to break away from neocolonialism. Replacing one parasite with another is not anti-colonialism, although it is understandable given the pressures facing the junta.

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SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 13

God’s people rejoice

Bethel United in Birmingham marks 66 years preaching the Word. By Latoya Foster

S ONE who travelled to the United Kingdom during the Windrush era, Bishop Sydney Alexander Dunn brought with him a commitment to serve the church that he loved. Answering a divine call, he established a church at 2 Gibson Road, Birmingham, which now 66 years later has branches across the UK, Caribbean, North America, Canada and Africa. In late July, Bethel United Church of Jesus Christ (Apostolic) UK and Europe convened at the Bethel Convention Centre in West Bromwich to celebrate its 66th International Holy Convocation. With delegates arriving from around the country, and over 50 from overseas, the worship, fellowship and celebration demonstrated that a vision inspired by faith, will continue to grow stronger for generations to come. Only three short years ago, a gathering of this magnitude was unheard of. Nevertheless, the worldwide pandemic did not stop Bethel from making the necessary adjustments to host its 63rd Convocation virtually in the year 2020. This year we welcomed over 2,000 attendees for a tremendous family reunion. The current Presiding Bishop, Dexter E. Edmund, along with the Bethel Board of Bishops, pastors and leaders have been entrusted with the gargantuan task of taking this great church forward. Bishop Edmund has used his 40 years of ministry experience to empower and equip others to live God’s way. He receives great joy seeing God’s people achieve more than they thought they were capable of. The theme for this year’s convocation was El Bethel, reminding us of God’s care for his people.

COMMITMENT: Bishop Sydney Alexander Dunn The week was filled with health and well-being seminars, led by Bethel’s own medical team, namely Dr Jo Earle, Dr Carol Igofose, Dr Michael Dawes and Elaine Richards. There were also empowerment sessions such as Good Grief, a seminar on handling bereavement led by Maxine Barclay, How to Handle Church Burnout led by Joy Henry and Perfect Peace — lessons on living in the peace of God, led by Dr Keshawna Ferguson. The Bethel United School for Youth, led by Jonathan Brooks, hosted the Children’s Church on Saturday morning which was excellent. We are thankful to all who contributed to the success of this great convocation including our keynote speakers, Bishop Lance Dinnall, Elder Jermaine Williams, Pastor Mavis Taylor, Bishop Dexter Edmund and Bishop PJ Edmund and the wonderful Bethel National Music Ministry. We are grateful to the JN Group for being our sponsor for this year’s convocation.We look forward to many more years of partnership.

News Feature UNITED WE STAND: Bethel United church in worship

14 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

WestminsterCelebrations

ADVERTORIAL

National Inclusion Week celebrated at Westminster City Council

WESTMINSTER COUNCIL ALL KINDS OF EXTRAORDINARY

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At Westminster City Council we’ll be celebrating National Inclusion Week from 25 September to 1 October. Founded by Inclusive Employers, National Inclusion Week is a week dedicated to celebrating inclusion and taking action to create inclusive workplaces. This year’s theme is ‘Take Action Make Impact’. Here at Westminster, we want the Council to be a great place to

work, and an organisation that we have pride in. A vital part of this is ensuring we are a truly inclusive organisation that encourages diversity in all respects, including diversity of thinking. Everyone can be their best self at work: being who they are, being listened to, valued and respected. People who work here reflect the diversity of Westminster and understand the place and our communities. Stuart Love, Chief Executive at Westminster City Council said: “At Westminster City Council our focus on equality, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of our organisation’s culture and as a result over the last five years we have seen significant change and improvement in staff engagement scores and in our resident survey

results. However there is much more for us to do, as we continue to drive forward our commitment to being an anti-racist organisation, and address the inequalities that still exist in relation to race and gender. This is the responsibility of every single leader in our organisation and has to become part of our DNA, so that it is embedded, sustainable and ensures we never go backwards. Continuing to tackle inequality is critical, it is urgent and it is everyone’s responsibility.” The council was recently awarded Disability Confident Leader status. During National inclusion Week, we will have honest conversations about how we overcome barriers and support staff with disabilities and health conditions, understanding what we need to do and how this can be delivered.

South Asian Heritage Month celebration

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 15

ADVERTORIAL

WestminsterCelebrations Daphne Clarke Strategic Employee Relations Lead

At Westminster City Council, we free our people to lead. Daphne, our champion for people with learning difficulties, is a real beacon. She doesn’t just advocate for colleagues with these difficulties, she teaches managers how to identify and understand the conditions, and support their teams at work. Daphne has an innate ability to see the human behind every situation, helping them capitalise on strengths and overcome challenges to be their very best. With her empathy and expertise, she’s a natural. But then, a lifetime of managing her own dyslexia and dyspraxia brings with it unique insight. Our people – and ultimately residents – benefit every day. “I became a champion for colleagues with learning difficulties in the workplace because I felt that they were being misunderstood and also they were being left out. People with learning difficulties and disabilities bring a completely different approach to the workplace. We bring a richer sense of experience, we bring a completely different approach on how we do things, and we educate, and that’s really important is that we educate people and we allow people to be more comfortable with the way in which they approach people with disabilities.”

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Seth Mills BiBorough Director of Social Care

“Diversity and Inclusion is such a big part of the work we do here in Westminster. We take this very seriously and want to not only bring out the best in people but also bring the best people to Westminster, no matter their background.”

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Marva Bryant Deputy Service Manager for Looked After Children & Leaving Care Service

“I believe that everyone has the right to be treated fairly. Everyone should have the opportunity to be heard and to develop to be the best they can be. For me, Diversity & Inclusion in Westminster provides the platform that champions and drives forward an inclusive culture for our employees and the community we serve”.

Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month

From July 18 to August 17, we celebrated South Asian Heritage Month, and in this time we commemorated and learnt about the rich culture, traditions and unique aspects of South Asian heritage. We had a series of amazing events where staff could come together and listen to individuals share their experiences of life, as the theme of the month is ‘Stories to Tell’. To celebrate, all Westminster City Council staff were invited to join BritBangla members for an evening with female leaders, sharing their stories as South Asian women. event for South Asian women to share their stories

Paige Gambrah Internal Communications Ofﬁcer

“The Kickstart Scheme at Westminster City Council allowed room for roles that were not typically accessible through standard application. I was able to acquire skills and experiences that enabled me to secure the permanent position I am in now.”

Shofa Miah Youth Council Strategic Manager

‘’As part of our Diversity and Inclusion Manifesto, Westminster Youth Council Members continue to celebrate, commemorate, and educate the community about the signiﬁcance of South Asian Heritage Month.”

16 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Dotun Adebayo

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

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

Jamie Foxx health scare was a wake up call for me... almost Us Black men of a certain age should take our lifestyle more seriously. I’ll get there!

HE HOLLYWOOD actor Jamie Foxx is going to live. He is out of hospital. I don’t know if he has fully recovered but he’s alive, and right now that’s all that matters. His recent health scare should have sent shockwaves throughout the diaspora. Especially amongst us Black men over 50. Because here is a Black man at the top of his game in a Hollywood where you have to fight hard to make it and even harder to maintain. He’s one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood. He earns over £10 million a movie and they reckon he’s worth £180 million. It was hard to believe that he was fighting for his life when his on-screen persona is so intense (takes a lot of energy) whether he’s playing Ray Charles or he’s Django Unchained. And you’re sitting there thinking, I can’t believe he’s 55. He probably couldn’t believe it. But he knows now. Who feels it knows it. The rest of us go about our business thinking that ain’t going to happen to us — yet. But it is. Sooner than we expect. Black men don’t take their health seriously enough. Men in general, but Black men in particular do not see health as a hazard of their human condition. Diabetes, prostate cancer, lung cancer (if you smoke), stroke, cancer. We are more likely to die from all of these conditions than our white counterparts, several times more likely, and yet we walk around like it ain’t ever going to happen. We seem to think it happens to anyone else but us. You know how it goes already, Black men walk around like we’re invincible. And we

are to a certain extent. Then the unbelievable happens and we’re in hospital on life support, in intensive care, where it all comes flooding back to us that there is a God (just like our parents said there is) and we vow, should the good Lord bestow his amazing grace to get us out of here, that we will praise his name loudly for ever more. “God is good,” was one of the first things Jamie Foxx said to the media when he came out of hospital. “God is good.” I should have been saying that a year ago. Because my annual health report didn’t look too good, and for the first time ever my blood pressure had gone up and the GP wasn’t messing about who told me straight that if I didn’t change my lifestyle I was staring a somewhat reduced life expectancy in the face. I didn’t tell my wife the doctor said that. If I had, I would be one of the healthiest men in the country right now. She’s already on my case about my casual attitude to health at my age. You know what she said to me the other day, “You’re lucky that you’ve been blessed with good genes which have enabled you to misuse your body without you having to pay health consequences.

‘GOD IS GOOD’: Jamie Foxx is at the top of his game in Hollywood and a regular at awards ceremonies, below, but his recent health scare should have sent shockwaves through the diaspora (photo: This Happened) You look young, you have a full head of hair and, remarkably, barely a grey hair on your head (unless you’re secretly dying it). But you can’t keep living like you’re a 17 year old. It will kill you. And by the way, yes I still want you, yes I still need you, now you’re 64.” But I feel fine. So I didn’t change much. I carried on life like I was going to live a long one. Another 30 years and I’ll be in my 90s is what I was thinking. And then I checked my blood pressure the other day because my missus bought me one of those h o m e kits and I thought I may as well

use it, it’s been sitting there for a year without use. To my shock and horror my blood pressure had shot up in the last 12 months, so much so that I was in a dangerous category.

and stressing less. But by the next morning, just before I put on my running shoes to go jogging, I started querying whether I had taken the blood pressure reading correctly. Weren’t you

It was hard to believe that he was fighting for his life when his on-screen persona is so intense That’s when I started thinking about Jamie Foxx and how if it could happen to him, it could happen to any of us and now it’s happening to me. I immediately started changing my lifestyle. I didn’t eat another meal the whole day and I started planning to go jogging in the morning and committed myself to shifting some timber

supposed to wrap the strap around your bicep to take the reading? Because I strapped my forearm. I decided to take another three readings for good measure and, guess what, my blood pressure has not gone up as significantly as I thought it had. In fact, I’m not sure that it has gone up at all since last year.

Well, you can hear the sigh of relief from me even as you read this. I immediately put off going jogging (I couldn’t find my running shoes in any case) and I reached into the fridge for the bowl of rice that I didn’t eat the night before. I won’t even lie, it feels like I’m invincible again. It feels like I’m the same old Black man that I was a year ago. It feels like health scares only happen to other Black men. Until it happens to me. Oh, don’t get me wrong. I will change my lifestyle and I will get healthy and I will take my mortality seriously but I’m gambling that I’ve got a little while longer before I need to do that, a little while longer before I need to start acting my age for the sake of my health. For the sake of your health don’t do as I do!

DOTUN ADEBAYO, BRITAIN’S MOST CELEBRATED BLACK BROADCASTER, IS KNOWN AS THE KING OF THE NIGHTTIME AIRWAVES. ALL VIEWS HERE ARE HIS OWN. LISTEN TO HIM OVERNIGHT ON BBC 5 LIVE FROM 1-5AM SATURDAY MORNINGS - MONDAY MORNINGS & 1AM - 4AM ON BBC RADIO LONDON (WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY MORNINGS). FOLLOW HIM ON TWITTER: @dotunadebayo

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MAY 2023 THE VOICE |35

BLACK WORKERS CONFERENCE 2023

YOUNG VOICES IN AFRICA AND THE CARIBBEAN Stories told by local journalists

12-page supplement

20 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Youth

Commonwealth Year of Youth in sharp focus

COLLECTIVE VOICE: Youth-led change is vital if our world is to survive its current challenges

By Christabel Derby, Co-Chair of the Commonwealth Year of Youth Advisory Committee

S WE approach major events such as the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting and the Youth Awards, the critical importance of the Commonwealth Year of Youth comes into sharp focus. At its core is the staunch belief that young people are our power source. Across our 56 countries is the recognition that we need youthful perspectives and innovations to achieve our Sustainable Development Goals, which include saving our planet, tackling poverty, and empowering marginalised groups. It’s a big task and a big ask for governments that have had pandemics, floods, storms, and conflicts thrown in their path. But when they met at their COVID-delayed summit in Rwanda last year, they all agreed that these goals could only be made possible by investing in young people, addressing their concerns, supporting their empowerment, and including them

in decision-making. And the Commonwealth Year of Youth was launched. To manage its design and implementation, the Commonwealth assembled a strong intergenerational Advisory Committee, which I co-chair. Since officially launching the Year in January, the Committee has been working with the Commonwealth Secretariat and a network of government departments and international partners to gear up young leaders and accelerate youth development and empowerment. This includes capacity-building and strategy-planning sessions and scholarships such as the Commonwealth/Simplilearn partnership, which offered 10,000 course places worth $5 million. We have also been ramping up our advocacy efforts and ensuring more young people participate in decisionmaking. But our advocacy is not only to mobilise decision-makers. It is also about lighting a fire in

our 1.2 billion young people and encouraging them to be part of a revolution and a loud collective voice that echoes across the globe demanding action and change. As a young lawyer and youth activist from Ghana, I am intimately familiar with the barriers and the negative messages that try to convince us that we are too young and inexperienced to make a change. Fortunately, I have proven

to myself the power of perseverance and resilience. I know firsthand that youth-led change is not only possible but is also necessary if our world is to survive its current challenges. I also recognise the importance of intergenerational collaboration, and I am inspired by those who came before me, such as renowned International Youth Development Specialist and Strategy Advisor Dr Henry Charles, who up until last

month was my co-chair on the Year of Youth advisory committee. Sadly, Dr Charles passed away while travelling to one of our events. But I will always be inspired by his legacy as the “Godfather of Youth Work and Youth Development Studies.” He dedicated his life to youth empowerment and played a critical role in the development of the world-renowned Commonwealth Youth Programme,

which this year celebrates its 50th birthday. He has left a lasting impression on me, and one of my aims for the Year of Youth is to make him proud. Christabel Derby is a lawyer and the CEO of the Derby’s Foundation Ghana – focusing on development, education, health, and infrastructure. She is currently the Vice Chairperson of Inclusion and Engagement for the Commonwealth Youth Council

Harnessing the power of youth action to shape lives IT’S HARD to imagine that it has been a year since we met in Rwanda for the Commonwealth Youth Forum, and I took the helm of the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) as Chair. It seems like just yesterday when I sat with youth leaders from the Caribbean, the Americas, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Pacific. It’s difficult to adequately describe, with mere words, the importance of this Forum to young people sufficiently. We were emerging from the dark shadow of the pandemic and facing some of the most severe challenges in history: a

By Kim Allen, Chair of the Commonwealth Youth Council COVID-exacerbated youth unemployment crisis, education and health systems that were in shambles, and the impending doom of climate change. These harsh realities force young people

to express their frustrations through violence, petty crimes, and protests and lead to increased suicides, teenage pregnancies, sexual harassment, and substance abuse. But we also had a group of young people who are blessed with talent and resilience and driven by their commitment to take charge of their future. Among the many youthfocused outcomes of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Rwanda was their declaration that 2023 would be dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable devel-

opment. This was the birth of our Commonwealth Year of Youth. Fortuitously, this year coincides with the celebration of the CYC’s 10th birthday and the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP), which, throughout the decades, has gained a reputation among governments as a strong pillar of support for their youth development endeavours. The CYP has been a close ally to Commonwealth countries, from drafting youth policies to training youth workers to recognising and funding

youth-led sustainable development initiatives through youth awards. But, for me, the most invaluable gift to young people is a voice — the opportunity to have a say, at the highest levels, in the policy decisions that shape and affect their lives. This is the power of the Commonwealth Youth Council and the growing number of youth networks that advocate for change and progress in areas such as health, education and the environment. As members of these networks, we aim to connect with the 1.2 billion young

people across the Commonwealth to understand their concerns, hear and communicate their ideas, and spotlight their solutions and innovations in highlevel international arenas. This Voice supplement is another opportunity to be heard and highlight the real stories behind cold statistics, especially as youth ministers prepare for their summit in September. It is also an opportunity for those responsible for government youth portfolios to listen and to work with us to turn our challenges into opportunities for prosperity and growth.

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE

Youth

Baliceaux: A graveyard that must be protected Thousands died when the British stranded Garinagu people on this island. Now it is being sold off to become a billionaire’s playground. By Jada Chambers

ONCE SAW a graveyard come alive. It’s also the biggest graveyard I’ve ever seen. This place is called Baliceaux, a 142.1 square kilometre island in the Caribbean that is part of the nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Baliceaux has a haunting history surrounding the Garifuna people, as beneath the feet of those who trod the land are the bones of 2,026 Garinagu men, women and children who fell victim to what some consider to be one of the greatest acts of genocide committed by the British. T h e Garifuna, formerly known as the Black Caribs, are the descendants of an Afroindigenous population from St Vincent and the Grenadines. Paramount Chief of the Garifuna, and Leader of the European Resistance Joseph Chatoyer was killed on March 14, 1795 at Dorsetshire Hill, St Vincent.

EXILED

The following year, the British exiled 5,008 Garifuna people to Baliceaux, an island just off the coast of St Vincent, where there was no fresh water or food. Vincentian historian Dr Garrey Dennie has described this act as an inexcusable criminal offence that was not manslaughter; it was done with the pure and unadulterated intention to eradicate the Garifuna people and their heritage. Less than a year later, when

the British returned to Baliceaux, more than half of the people they had left there were dead. The survivors were put on boats and exiled to Roatan, off the coast of Honduras. There, the community began to increase in numbers, and they later spread to Belize and other areas across Central America. Eventually, the culture began to resuscitate, then thrive. Centuries later in 2001, UNESCO dubbed the Garifuna culture, “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,” and since then, numerous initiatives have been put in place across the Garifuna diaspora to propel enculturation of the language and culture. Ironically, the attempt of the British to strangle the Garifuna heritage has led to a revival. Today, scores of Garifuna descendents from Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Belize, the US, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Caribbean conduct pilgrimages to Baliceaux to commemorate the pain that their people endured on that sacred island. On March 12 2023, I made the journey myself, and that was when I saw a graveyard come to life. The island was beautiful indeed. Its mountainous terrain is blanketed with hundreds of trees and shrubs, while the fringes of the land are encrusted with sea shells. Inland, there are giant holes that were dug into the ground. In spite of how peaceful

EMOTIONAL JOURNEY: Baliceaux island, just off the coast of St Vincent, has a haunting history surrounding the Garifuna people; left, Jada Chambers, forefront left, during her pilgrimage to Baliceaux back in March; inset, a pilgrim sings at Baliceaux to honour her ancestors

and serene it all was, the journey was tremendously upsetting, as some of the pilgrims grew emotional as they sailed the waters their people were forced to traverse, just to die. There were 60 of us. There were dancers and drummers, and everyone was dressed in

white. Emotions of sadness, anger, peace and joy exploded together across the island, and it came to life. However, it seems as if one can put a price tag on even the most irreplaceable things. Despite all the trauma, history and the triumph of our an-

cestors, their graveyard called Baliceaux has been placed on the market by its private owners for US$30 million to become some billionaire’s playground. Baliceaux reminds me of the Island of Goree, a pilgrimage destination that lies off the coast of Senegal, West Africa.

Jada Chambers is a 19-year-old multimedia journalist from St Vincent and the Grenadines. Jada has a passion for writing poetry and stories.

This island had the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast, but is now a protected destination for reconciliation and forgiveness. Baliceaux and the island of Goree are two of the same, so why should one be safeguarded and the other put up for sale?

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Lessons to be learned from a fantastic Games Pursue your dreams and don’t focus on your mistakes. By Jada Chambers

AVE YOU ever met someone who was hell-bent on convincing you about something? I did. This man was like a broken record. He said the same thing, over and over again, every day, for weeks, that I should pursue a more “lucrative” career path and give up on my dream of becoming a writer. One week after another conversation during which he explained the importance of doing what makes money and not what you love, he passed away. And though his death was unfortunate and untimely, it made me think of how those who try to dictate others’ lives may not even live to see it happen. The thing is, journalism is my stepping stone to becoming a writer, so had I listened to him, I would have treated writing as just a hobby and would not have been given the invaluable opportunity to report on the Commonwealth Youth Games Trinbago 2023. I began my journalism career nine months ago at Searchlight Newspaper, a media company

located in St Vincent and the Grenadines. After being introduced to YourCommonwealth blog and writing my first article for the site, I was given the opportunity to travel to Tobago as a youth journalist at the CYG Trinbago 2023. The fact that I was even considered for this opportunity was a surreal moment in itself! The furthest I’ve travelled from St Vincent is a 30km flight to the Grenadine Island of Mustique, so to fly to a whole other country was just incredible. Much like St Vincent, Tobago is beautiful; but the Games were even more enthralling. I worked alongside journalists from UNICEF, taking photos and interviewing athletes who participated in rugby, beach volleyball, triathlon and the newly added Fast5 netball. I questioned them on topics such as ‘Safe Sport’, their experience while competing in the Games, what it took for them to play at such a professional level, and their plans for the future. Most of them who stood on

DRIVEN: Athletes at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Youth Games (photo: Getty Images)

the podium to receive their medals told me that they didn’t expect to do that well. Others said that they made grave mistakes during their races but were still able to pull themselves together to make it to the finish line; and most of those who lost their games were in no way discouraged, but ready for the next challenge. Their mentality was inspiring and of high quality. As I inter-

viewed these 14–18-year-olds, I learnt that because success isn’t guaranteed, it does not mean I shouldn’t make a very good attempt to achieve it. They taught me to focus on my goals and not on my mistakes, and finally, not to be easily discouraged when I didn’t do as well as I wanted to. The conversations I had with the athletes reflected the importance of platforms like the Commonwealth Youth

Games. I believe that prestigious events like these, dedicated to young people, present us with the opportunity to develop strong mindsets, and teach us how to become the best versions of ourselves by working hard towards our goals. I hope events like these will not be limited to those who participate in sports but will be extended to youths who excel in other fields such as art, theatre, writing, culinary arts,

information technology and more. In this way, more youths will engage in positive activities rather than squander their time in fruitless endeavours. Jada Chambers is a 19-year-old multimedia journalist from St Vincent and the Grenadines. Jada has a passion for writing poetry and stories and dreams of becoming a novelist

Power of youth activism can rise above challenges

By Khaleem Ali

OUR GENERATION isn’t content with mere dreams and aspirations; we’re builders of a brighter future, confronting challenges head-on. As the world faces unprecedented crises, we refuse to be passive bystanders. Instead, we rise against norms, demanding justice, equity, and progress. Our passion emanates from the belief in our collective voice and the power of unity. Each word, step, and idea we share ignites change. Youth activism goes beyond empty words and unfulfilled promises; it’s about mobilising for

accountability. From classrooms to global platforms, young activists are demanding real change in the halls of power and decisionmaking. This does not come without challenges; token gestures overshadow meaningful engagement, political party ideology acts as a barrier to engagement, and independent thinking is seen as a threat to the age-old status quo. Young people continue to be seen as too “inexperienced” and “too ambitious” and often get reduced to being pawns on the chessboard of geopolitics. Simply put, “youth engagement” remains a buzzword, and young people are not seen as

partners but rather as problems to be “fixed.” NGOisation has also become a significant limiting factor in youth engagement and advocacy, coupled with the new need for ‘experience’ without meaningful opportunities for experience to be earned. We must realise that ageing should never be a prerequisite for leadership. Young people are often told to be the authors of their destiny; however, many older people continue to gatekeep the pen and paper needed to author that destiny. How do we work around these and the many other issues that limit youth engagement?

Intergenerational collaboration is crucial for inclusive societies. By embracing diverse perspectives, we enhance development strategies and create representative communities. Giving young people meaningful opportunities to lead is also critical; young people should be more than just voters, engaging in leadership roles to challenge norms. The fight against climate change showcases the potency of youth activists, demanding resources and space to drive climate solutions. The recently concluded Commonwealth Youth Games epitomise collaboration and shared

objectives, resonating with youth activism’s essence. To fellow activists, I urge unyielding determination. Our journey may be challenging, but we must stand up and voice our concerns. We are partners in sustainable development, not mere beneficiaries. The urgency for change is real; every second counts in shaping our future, and as is said, the future is NOW. Khaleem Ali is a youth activist with a passion for Legal Research, Policy Development and Partnership Development and Engagement

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Sisters praise ‘royal’ experience By Jada Chambers

SISTER ACT: Anjia and Brianna Delapenha in action for the Cayman Islands at the Commonweath Youth Games

CAYMAN ISLAND sisters and Beach Volleyball partners Anjia and Brianna Delapenha have praised Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) Trinbago 2023 for giving athletes a “royal” experience. The Delapenha sisters, who are also Youth Ambassadors of the Cayman Islands Volleyball Federation, are no strangers to the world of volleyball as they have travelled near and far to compete in numerous tournaments. However, despite having played in different places worldwide, Anjia said that at CYG Trinbago 2023, it was the first time she felt like royalty. The 18-year-old was speaking after losing a tough match against English athletes Daisy Boardman and Alice Jagielska at the Black Rock Beach Facility. Despite her “disappointing” loss, Anjia was positive about her experience at the games. “We are police escorted everywhere. For the first time, I feel like royalty… I think the procedures and protocols in place are very

efficient and very good, and I know who to go to in terms of an injury or anything else.” she said, adding there is not much more that the organisers could have done to make the event better. Anjia stressed it is crucial for athletes, especially youths, to have a safe environment and not to have to worry about their teammates or details off the court – considerations which she said were taken seriously at the Games. Sixteen-year-old Brianna agreed with her sister. She spoke about her plans to persevere, even after Anija leaves to study in the UK. “My sister is going to go off to college, so that leaves me on the island alone, so I’d probably have to look for a new partner and hopefully develop from there.” Anjia plans to represent her country at college level and continue bringing wealth, shine and positivity to the sport. Trinidad and Tobago raised the bar every single day at the CYG, and the twin island has earned a reputation for giving athletes a “royal” experience.

Why the Games matter

HIS YEAR Trinidad and Tobago hosted the Commonwealth Youth Games, bringing together young athletes from around the globe. They participated in aquatics, athletics, cycling, triathlon, rugby sevens, beach volleyball and netball. There was also a fully integrated para-Athletics programme. The breathtaking diversity and the fantastic display of talent made the Games a historic event. But the Commonwealth also saw it as an opportunity to advance its work in supporting countries’ youth development and empowerment goals, especially during 2023, designated by its leaders as the Year of Youth. For example, they collaborated with UNICEF to deliver Athlete Impact Labs, focused on informing athletes about their rights and offering them the opportunity to recommend and shape policy in the industry.

SPORTING LEGACY: The Games are an excellent way for Commonwealth nations to come together and unite through sport in a socially beneficial way (photo: Getty Images)

Jada Chambers speaks with young leader Dr James Frater about the importance of the Commonwealth Youth Games

I spoke with one of the Lab’s facilitators, Dr James Frater, about his experience at the Games. Frater is a medical doctor, a Commonwealth Youth Sport for Development & Peace representative and the former UK G20 Youth Delegate for Health, Wellbeing & Sport.

coming, and the Games have been a well-run and well-competed programme of events. I was particularly impressed by the level these young people have been competing at and the camaraderie between teams (when they are not competing).

What stood out for you at the Games? JF: I grew up in Jamaica and have visited many times since, but this was my first time visiting another Caribbean Island. To say that Tobago is incredible would be an understatement. The island is beautiful; the people are warm and wel-

How could the Games serve the Commonwealth? JF: Platforms like Commonwealth Youth Games are important, particularly for smaller states. Developing their capacity and infrastructure to accommodate the programme of events leaves a sporting legacy that benefits young people —

and the nation more broadly — even after the games are finished. Additionally, the Games are an excellent opportunity for Commonwealth nations to come together and unite through sport in a sustainable, innovative, and socially beneficial way.

What is your vision for the future of young people? JF: My vision for the future of young people ties in with the Commonwealth’s Year of Youth. I want sustainable solutions and initiatives that tackle the most urgent global problems. This means organisations must invest

in meaningful positions that put young people at the centre of decision-making at every possible level. Historically, too many decisions were made about the future without the input of the younger generations that will have to bear the consequences of those decisions.

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What inspired us to change the world... Winners of the Commonwealth Youth Awards. By Charity Mwathi

URNING PLASTIC and organic waste into timber, roofing tiles, and even clean energy. Pioneering green agricultural techniques. Revolutionising access to emergency healthcare with affordable three-wheeled ambulances. These are just some of the amazing innovations that the Commonwealth Youth Awards have spotlighted for more than a decade. Many started out as passion projects and were implemented by the sheer determination of talented young people, some from remote and marginalised communities. The one thing these young people all have in common is an intense desire to transform our world by providing practical solutions to complex problems,

Many started out as passion projects and the awards have propelled many of them into international arenas. The youngest-ever Award winner Brianna Fruean went on to address heads of state and governments at The UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26) in 2021. Organised and delivered by the Commonwealth Youth Programme, the Commonwealth Youth Awards provides this platform annually to tell the world about these remarkable individuals selected from five regional categories (Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe & Canada, and the Pacific) following a rigorous judging process. The Awards have become such a permanent and invaluable fixture of the Commonwealth Youth Programme that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, it persevered, with virtual ceremonies that were nominated

for a British broadcasting award and that broke Commonwealth audience engagement records. This year’s Awards are especially important as we return to in-person events for the first time since 2020. It also lands in the Year of Youth — a special designation by Commonwealth leaders who dedicated 2023 to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development. In honour of the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, the awards have, for the first time, recognised 50 candidates. This year the ceremony will be hosted by the Duke of Edinburgh HRH Prince Edward, at St James’ Palace on September 14. It will be part of a weeklong summit for ministers of youth from the 56 Commonwealth countries. Each of the 20 regional finalists will receive a trophy, certificate, and £1,000 to expand the impact of their work. The five regional winners will also receive £3,000, and one of them will become the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year 2023 and be awarded £5,000. On top of the cash prize, the winners also enjoy international acclaim and invaluable networking opportunities to help boost their projects and spotlight their nations. This year we have another cohort of exceptional talent from all around the Commonwealth, and we are checking in with the Caribbean and African finalists to find out what inspired them to change the world. Charity Mwathi is a Communications & Marketing Specialist from Kenya with a background in International Relations. She is currently part of the Commonwealth Young rofessionals Programme and is the Assistant Programme Officer, responsible for Stakeholder Engagement in the Secretariat’s Social Policy Development division

Ché Greenidge Barbados

AFTER A traumatic accident left me temporarily disabled, I realised, for the first time, my inability to communicate with deaf people. This inspired me to focus on change, and my Deaf Heart initiative was born. Deaf heart is a term affectionately used to refer to nondeaf people who care about the well-being of deaf people and who consider and acknowledge their perspective. Since the creation of my project, I have been working with the community to empower deaf individuals in Barbados and the Caribbean through my Deaf Heart Project, bringing employment opportunities to the more than 93 per cent of deaf unemployed persons in Barbados and championing transformative change by reaching more than 100,000 people through education and awareness-raising campaigns.

Mawuse Christina Gyisun Ghana

WEST AFRICAN countries are responsible for 90 per cent of the global supply of Shea commodities, and more than 16 million women smallholder farmers in the region are engaged in the production of raw shea commodities for these businesses. Sadly, many of them are from some of the poorest districts in Ghana and their households live on less than $2 daily. My vision is to eradicate poverty among rural women in West Africa by creating access to digitisation and related services in very remote farming communities in Northern Ghana. My organisation, Sommalife, has impacted the lives of 20,000 rural women through skill development and increased income. More than 7,000 women out of the 20,000 have seen a 22.75 per cent increase in their income. We don’t plan on stopping here.

Maya Kirti Nanan

Trinidad and Tobago I GREW up seeing my brother being discriminated against because he was autistic. He was not accepted into schools, and my family could not afford therapy. This inspired me to take action. In 2015, at 12 years old, I established the Autism Siblings and Friends Network (ASFN) to create opportunities for him and others with disabilities and to advocate for their inclusion at all levels. Since then, my non-profit organisation has created opportunities for my brother and many others with special educational needs and advocated for equal access to opportunities. ASFN operates Rahul’s Clubhouse, an autism centre where autistic individuals have equal access to developmental and social programmes, entirely run by youths. It actively develops educational, social and skills programmes for autistic persons nationwide.

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Youth

Shergaun Roserie Saint Lucia

In 2017, when a group of us from the Caribbean participated in the first Global Robotics Competition, we realised how great a chasm there was between richer countries in the global west and lesser developed countries regarding Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. We were inspired to do something

about this inequality, and our social enterprise, Orbtronics Ltd, was born. We aim to give young people in the Caribbean the skills to drive innovation and technology in their countries, compete at regional and international levels, and become part of the next global cohort of renowned engineers.

Emmanuel Tlemu Republic of Tanzania

AFTER several community visits to highly populated areas such as marketplaces, bus stations, public toilets, and schools in Dar es Salaam, I was concerned about poor sanitation practices, lack of health knowledge, and the significant risk of sanitationrelated diseases such as diarrhoea and urinary tract infections. Using my skill as an engineer,

I founded the SWASH Competition APP, a social educative platform designed to challenge people to change undesired behaviour in water, sanitation and hygiene practices through strategies such as online sanitation competitions in streets/wards and schools. My platform has engaged and inspired 30,045 students and attracted 19,954 community members in 2022.

Deliwe Makata Malawi

I AM a passionate published writer, a change enthusiast and an award-winning development specialist, inspired by my vision to accelerate human social development and create spaces where individuals and communities have a voice. That is why I founded Women Inspire and Swift Capital. In the past six years, we have reached

more than 10,000 direct beneficiaries in areas of education, economic empowerment and health improvement. We work to achieve three major objectives: education as an empowerment and poverty alleviation tool, financial literacy as a poverty alleviation tool, and health education as an active contributor to economic development.

Ghislain Irakoze Rwanda

WHEN MY best friend survived a garbage landslide accident, I embarked on a journey to create a waste-free and climate-resilient world. Of 50 million tons of hazardous electronic waste generated globally annually, only less than 15 per cent are adequately repurposed and recycled. Our social enterprise, Wastezon, is applying machine

Akola Thompson Guyana

I HAVE always been passionate about advocacy and promoting human rights. But being part of several human rights groups, I recognised there was no collaborative approach among them. No one looked at shared challenges and how they can work together to raise awareness and encourage action and change. I saw that gap and decided to fill it. My organisation Tamùkke Feminists uses education

to support human rights causes. In 2021, we co-created with UNFPA Guyana the iMatter app, which provides information on relevant resources for survivors of violence to access services in their region. Through the organisations’ Mind Fund and WorkReady programmes, LGBT+ women in Guyana have increased access to mental health services and work readiness programming.

learning and materials science to solve e-waste management while creating digitalisation opportunities for low-income communities in Rwanda. So far, Wastezon has impacted 5,500 Rwandan households. As an activist and researcher, I also sit on Global Greengrants Fund’s Next Gen Climate Board and EU Commission’s Youth Sounding Board.

CHALLENGES: Jeremiah Thoronka grew up in a slum

Discovering our rising stars DEMONSTRATING the power and importance of the Commonwealth Youth Awards, the 2021 African regional winner Jeremiah Thoronka, who set up a company that harnesses solar energy to create clean and affordable energy for thousands in his country, was prominently featured in a BBC article. Jeremiah had a challenging childhood growing up during the civil war in Sierra Leone. He lived with his single mother in a slum on the outskirts of Freetown, the country’s capital, relying on dirty charcoal and firewood to generate heat and light. During the Commonwealth

Youth Awards ceremony, he dedicated his award to single mothers and people living in energy poverty. Jeremiah said: “They have no option but to use wood for energy. I stand with them, and I look forward to how we can collectively address this issue.” Later that year, Jeremiah won the inaugural Global Student Prize for his work combating energy poverty. He received a one-off prize of $100,000 (£74,741) and was congratulated by actor Hugh Jackman during the the virtual awards ceremony, which was broadcast from UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris.

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Prize In 2022, to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Commonwealth Secretariat partnered with the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust (QCT) to offer, for the first time, an additional prize of £20,000 to fund one of the Commonwealth Youth Awards projects. Singaporean Edward Yee, right, the co-founder of ‘GivFunds Social Ventures’, a nonprofit organisation which provides sustainable and low-cost capital to small social en-

terprises that lie outside the reach of funders, won the prize. He was enrolled onto QCT’s Youth Ventures Programme and in addition to the prize, he has been getting practical tools and support, and access to a vibrant network of young change-makers to help his project flourish. Accepting the QCT prize last year, Yee described it as a game-changer that will supercharge the growth of his initiative. This year another finalist will be awarded the QCT prize.

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How do we regulate AI?

SCARY PROPOSITION: The internet could be generative AI’s data playground ; inset, we still have more questions than answers regarding AI and regulation (main photo: Anomaly on Unsplash)

Safeguards are needed to keep technology safe. By Shannay Williams

HETHER WE recognise it or not, most of us have interacted with artificial intelligence (AI). We’re all familiar with Google, Siri, Alexa, and the like and we’ve been using them for years. So what’s changed? Well, two weeks after the public release of ChatGPT, an open letter signed by 27,000+ people so far, including tech titans and entrepreneurs, requested a six-month halt in the development of AI. According to the letter, “powerful AI systems should be developed only when we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable.” AI can be split into two broad categories: weak AI and strong AI. Weak AI is trained to perform specific tasks — like asking Siri a question. Strong AI is, (theoretically) trained to have intelligence equal to humans or that exceeds the capabilities of the human mind. The idea of Strong AI feeds into our fears because we often ask questions like will AI replace your job completely? Can AI outsmart us? How will we know what’s real? You may have seen the viral “picture of the Pope” which focused a lot of concern on gen-

erative AI. Generative AI creates new content from the material it has already been exposed to or has access to. So theoretically, the internet could be generative AI’s data playground, which can be scary; we know that social media and the internet are filled with trolls, angry content, and disinformation. If we ask AI to generate a story or art, would it create mostly violent material? Will it create misleading content? We have reason to be concerned about AI’s potential negative consequences. We also have reason to look forward to its progress. AI could aid in the prediction of consumer behaviour, enabling more targeted digital marketing strategies and better customer service. It may also reduce the amount of time physicians spend studying patient data; in fact, it may assist in reducing medical errors. With autonomous delivery vehicles, self-organising fleets, and self-driving cars, AI could transform the way we travel. AI has the potential to improve our quality of life. These possibilities are thought-provoking, but I am concerned about regulations. How will we regulate AI? Some have suggested disclaimers/watermarks on AIgenerated content and even

limitations on parameters users can set when using AI systems. While there is a lot of popular debate on how much we should train AI to do and how far it will go, we still have more questions than answers. What will be our safeguards? Are we confident that the effects would be mostly positive and the negative risks will be manageable? The questions are

endless and depending on your industry may be even more concerning. But as the debate rages on, expect AI systems like Midjourney and ChatGPT to continue to evolve. Shannay Williams is from St. Thomas, Jamaica. She is a holder of a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the West Indies

Ethical concerns mount over the use of AI technology SEVERAL years ago, AI would have been thought to be little more than robots grabbing you a glass of wine, thus saving you the agony of missing portions of your favourite TV show. However, AI is far more than that. Every time you make use of the predictive typing feature on your smartphone, or use autocorrect, you’ve just enjoyed the benefits of AI. You also enjoy the benefits of AI every time you tell Siri on your iPhone to play you your favourite song. The use of AI has multiplied rapidly in recent

By Adedoyin Ajayi years. It is applied in everyday life and across virtually every sphere of human endeavour. Global spending on AI is projected to reach US$110 billion annually by next year. Undeniably, as humanity makes deeper inroads into the digital age, more

advanced forms of AI would be developed with bigger capabilities to execute more complicated tasks. A noteworthy example is the development of a tool such as ChatGPT, which can be used to write a thesis. Understandably, the heavy influence of AI in everyday life has raised questions regarding its use. Technology and knowledge however is a doubleedged sword. The same knowledge that has saved lives through groundbreaking advances in medicine has also contributed to ending lives through crea-

tion of weapons. It begs the question, will the beneficial and helpful nature of AI continue into the future? AI is not without its problems. AI can be used to achieve twisted goals. AI is made from algorithms, data from real-life occurrences. People with stereotypes, social biases, and political preferences can use AI to replicate their preferences. AI is not to blame for this, but this serves to highlight the importance of ethics in the creation and use of AI. Ethics is that fine line that differentiates benevolence from malevolence. Another

problem that can emanate from AI is misinformation. AI combs through millions of databases in the search for information. This ease and speed of information delivery can easily be mistaken for accuracy. But the databases and sites might not be all accurate. Reliance on AI can gradually replace not just professional advice, but also human contact. Sci-fi movies like I, Robot, TheTerminator and The Matrix all depicted dystopian worlds with AI gone rogue and humans in a state of fear. Critics however have

scoffed at the notion of such occurring in reality, believing a super-intelligent AI to be more fiction than fact. While I believe that the appearance of super-intelligent AI is still far ahead into the future, there are other dangerous ways in which AI usage can harm us. This can occur not in obvious means like violently taking over the world, but in more subtle ways such as gradually detaching us from the bonds we share with others, reducing our need for human contact, and relying more on AI rather than human judgement.

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Brain drain is turning Nigeria into sinking ship

Almost two million Nigerians are leaving each year. No wonder the country and its crumbling economy are suffering. By Adedoyin Ajayi

N TWITTER/X, when Destiny Ogedegbe announced his acceptance into both Oxford University and Harvard University, arguably the two most prestigious universities in the world, the spate of congratulatory messages was enough to make one swoon with envy. Nevertheless, subtly running beneath the congratulatory tweets were a common theme — “japa,” the joy at yet another Nigerian youth escaping the clutches of the country for greener pastures. The word “japa” loosely translates to “flee”, which when spoken with regard to the happenings in the country connotes bolting from the country in a bid to build a better life for oneself. Nigeria is a country besieged with several issues such as insecurity, a crumbling economy with high inflation, weak human capital development, and dreadful governance. Kidnappings make daily news; bandit attacks on villages are commonplace; and highways have become breed-

LEAVING: Destiny Ogedegbe ing grounds for bloodshed. According to SBM Intelligence, a socioeconomic research firm, in 2021, more than 10,000 lives were lost in Nigeria due to actions of herdsmen, bandits, Boko Haram, and gang clashes. The inflation rate in July stood at 22.79 per cent. The weak state of Nigeria’s naira, high costs of energy and transportation and insecurity in the country are some other factors that have contrived to create a heavily unfavourable business environment. Furthermore, an eight-month-long strike was called off in federal universities last October. The incessant

strikes in academic institutions, due to standoffs with the federal government are symbolic of a fragile desire to invest in, and subsequently develop human capital in the country. Students have grown frustrated with these constant interruptions that have prolonged academic calendars, consequently putting their lives and dreams on hold. Besides, with about 40 percent of youths unemployed, it is little wonder social vices are rampant in the country in the form of internet fraud, prostitution, and cultism. From the foregoing, it is unsurprising that the most populous Black nation is experiencing mass exodus of able-bodied men and women, some of whom are professionals across sectors, which constitutes labour loss and brain drain to the country. Emigration of Nigerians to preferred destinations like the UK and the US is not a new trend. However, these numbers have spiraled, rising through the roof. According to the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, international migrants

RISING NUMBERS: Nigeria is experiencing a mass exodus of men and women from Nigeria in 2020 totaled 1.7 million, a substantial rise from 990,000 in 2010. In 2016, Canada granted about 4,400 Nigerians permanent residence. This figure soared to over 15,000 in 2021. A couple of months ago, I had a conversation with a close friend who left for the UK to further her education. The situation in Nigeria is akin to a

sinking ship, with sailors yelling “abandon ship” before desertion and fleeing for safety before its imminent plummet. The lack of belief that the country offers a chance to achieve one’s goals and live a good life is at the centre of the mass emigration. One notes with mixed feelings; joy — at those who have left in the hopes of creating better lives for themselves,

and sadness — that the country is worse off for their absence. No country has a hope for development when it experiences a high level of human capital flight. Adedoyin Ajayi studied Economics at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria and graduated with first class honours

Poverty: we must tackle the root cause of child labour ACROSS NIGERIA, it is a heartbreaking, yet a common phenomenon to see children tug at the hands and clothes of travellers in motor parks in a bid to get some Naira notes, writes Adedoyin Ajayi. Constant rejection from travellers fails to dampen the resilience of these children, as they scamper about, trying to scrounge enough money for their next meal. For some of these children, this is their daily “work” to help themselves and their families. Across the country, children can be found working

in places like construction sites, markets, motor parks, as assistants in mechanic workshops, hawking on the streets, farming, mining, and working as helpers in homes and shops. The International Labour Organization estimates that about 15 million Nigerian children are involved in child labour. There are a number of factors responsible for the prevalence of child labour in Nigeria — parental neglect, abandonment, and displacement due to factors like flood and insecurity. Nonetheless, a chief reason is widespread

poverty in the country. The World Bank predicted that the poverty extent in Nigeria would total 95.1 million poor Nigerians in 2022. Additionally, the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics created the Multidimensional Pov-

erty Index (MPI) as a tool to measure the poverty gap in the country. Drawing on indices such as health, education, employment, security, and standard of living, results surpassed the World Bank

projection, and showed that a massive 133 million Nigerians live below the poverty line of US$1.90. For a child in a family trapped in the brutal clutches of poverty, schooling and education become secondary considerations. Poverty leads to children dropping out of schools and subsequently into the labour market, where they often partake in backbreaking jobs, where they could potentially be exploited. It is depressing that their childhood vigour is not spent learning and imbibing knowledge that sets

them on the path to being nation-builders and positive change-makers in future. Fighting child labour requires a resolute effort across deck. Over the years, the Nigerian government has enacted laws to prohibit child labour. With the dire economic conditions of the country, families would rather risk running afoul of the law in a bid to keep body and soul together. Improving the economic fortunes of the country would go a long way to ensuring child labour reduces and is subsequently eradicated.

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Getting the health kick

Youth discuss ways to avoid health problems in later life. By Taiwo Olawehinmi, Fahmida Ankhi and Ellen Peprah from the Commonwealth Youth Health Network

MAGINE BEING told you have diabetes, a condition which could lead to blindness and life-threatening kidney disease. This is the plight of far too many people in the Commonwealth. Its countries have some of the highest rates of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) globally, and young people are among the most vulnerable. That is why the Commonwealth Youth Health Network, in partnership with the Health, Sports for Development and Peace and Youth Divisions at the Commonwealth Secretariat, formed a new task force that engaged and consulted over 450 young people through an online survey to gather insights on the barriers to countering NCDs. The results showed that 22 per cent of young people live with at least one NCD, and 91 per cent know at least one person with an NCD. The task force then joined forces with partners such as the World Health Organisation and Resolve to Save Lives, to work with young people on strategies to arrest the rising rates of NCDsLo. This engagement confirmed what previous research had found, that while social and environmental factors continue to shape risks of NCDs like diabetes and hypertension,

simple lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, consuming a healthier diet and addressing mental health concerns are key to reducing the risk of developing NCDs later in life. Young people identified factors such as targeted sales and marketing of junk and processed foods, rising food prices and food security issues, inaccurate associations of healthy food consumption with weight loss, and low health literacy as the main drivers for unhealthy diets among youth populations. They proposed using social media to promote healthy eating and integrating health messages into school curricula. There was also a call for information on healthy dietary options to be regularly checked, revised and localised to be more relevant and adaptable by local communities. In relation to physical activity, there was a shared concern about the need for safer spaces and better design of communities and the built environment to increase the use of public structures such as pedestrian walks, sheltered areas and green urban spaces to promote physical activity. Young people also wanted to see physical activity become an integral part of the school system.

EDUCATION MATTERS: Low health literacy is one of the main drivers for unhealthy diets among youth populations

Finally, there was consensus on the importance of mental health advocacy and training as well as access to quality and affordable mental health services. Young people were concerned that many Commonwealth countries “still have outdated legislation on mental

health that reinforces discrimination, doesn’t support access to care, and doesn’t make specific provisions for the needs of children and young people”. What we have learnt is that actions to tackle NCDs must be multi-faceted, collaborative and localised, with young peo-

ple at the very heart of their design and implementation. We look forward to these challenges and priorities shared by young people being integrated into the Commonwealth’s new Guiding Framework, to be launched later this year. Through this, we can create

a coordinated Commonwealth approach to tackling the root causes of NCDs and stimulate action to address poor diet and physical inactivity. To learn more about the network and how to join, go to https://

Educating a COVID generation AS THE world begins to come to terms with the prolonged impact of interrupted learning during the pandemic, young leaders from our Commonwealth Students’ Association Africa Regional Committee share their concerns and solutions for educating a COVID-19 generation.

Chidubem Nwaibe Nigeria representative

“The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant educational challenges but has also shed light on African youth’s resilience, creativity, and determination. We can ensure that no student is left behind by addressing the digital divide, enhancing distance learning strategies, prioritising mental health support, and embracing youth-led innovation.

Julia Muhumuza Uganda representative

“The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, such as increased mental health issues and a surge in teenage pregnancies. But it also created opportunities, such as flexible schedules, improvements in curriculum and a greater focus on mental health support. To ensure a brighter and more equitable future for all, we need to build a more inclusive, accessible and resilient education system that empowers all students.”

Alex Adams Botswana representative

“The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has widened the already large inequality of

opportunity, with the most marginalised and vulnerable children being the most affected. The consequences of this lost learning could be dire, with a generation of under-educated individuals facing lower lifetime earnings and limited opportunities.We must invest in schools, ensure equity in education, and support parents.”

Neekhil Bhowoniah Mauritius representative

“Undeniably, university education has undergone a seismic shift over the last academic year – in terms of teaching and learning outcomes, which will likely have a lasting impact on students. We must explore strategies such as chunking content into digestible bites to suit the new cohort of Generation Z students who have

LOST GENERATION: Children have been hit hard by the pandemic grown up learning small amounts of information in short bursts.” Karabo Lerotholi Lesotho representative “When education is in danger, so is our future. The consequences for the next generation’s education are now clearly visible: a decline in learning performance, problems in psycho-social development and a deterioration

in physical condition. We should integrate the appropriate use of technology in efforts to strengthen education systems. We also need to redefine the role of an educator, with students being able to access knowledge and even learn technological skills through a few clicks on their devices while at the same time addressing the human need for face-to-face social interaction.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE

Youth

Teetering on the verge of regional disaster in Africa As Sudan slides ever closer to a full-blown civil war, Chimaobi Omeye considers the implications for the Sudanese and the world

FRICA’S THIRDLARGEST country by land mass is very close to a deadly civil war after weeks of unrest and killings. On either side of the unrest are the official Sudanese Armed Forces under the leadership of Abdel Fattah al-Burhan who currently serves as the de facto leader of the country, and the Rapid Support Force (RSF) led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. The former close friends are now the greatest enemies trying to steal power and override each other at the expense of the peaceful people of Sudan. Since the downfall of Omar al-Bashir, the longest leader of the country, Sudan has yet to experience a sense of lasting peace. The Armed Forces under al-Burhan have been promising a peaceful transition of power to the civilian political parties, but they seem to want a share of power no matter what. Both al-Burhan and Dagalo were fully involved in ousting al-Bashir even though Dagalo and his Rapid Support Forces were created and fully built by Omar al-Bashir. It has been reported that the crisis came about because alBurham felt sooner or later, he would suffer the same fate as al-Bashir and be ousted by Dagalo. General Abdel Fattah alBurhan therefore planned to dissolve the RSF and weaken his second-in-command Dagalo. It has been alleged that the crisis is being fuelled by foreign powers, following reports that there are plans by the Russian Federation to build a naval base in the Sudan area of the Red Sea. The media has also reported that there is evi-

dence that the Russian Wagner Group has been supplying the RSF with missiles, while some powerful Western countries, not comfortable with this plan, have also been providing arms and financial support. Sudanese people must decide the fate of their fatherland and external or internal rankles should be resolved through diplomacy only. Sudan is fast becoming a failed nation even with her rich solid minerals and human talent. A failed Sudan will result in a disturbed Africa considering its strategic position. A failed Sudan will bring about numerous crises which should be avoided by all means. Failure to do so will lead to a rapid rise in terrorism; within and outside Sudan if this crisis is not managed well immediately. There are reports of an uprising within the already devastated Darfur region where General Dagalo hails from. Africanews reported that fighters are already operating within the region causing mayhem and this is as a result of the struggle for control of the area which is vital after Khartoum. There will

GLOOMY OUTLOOK: Smoke plumes billow from a fire at a lumber warehouse in southern Khartoum amid ongoing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (photo: Getty Images) be a proliferation of arms especially at the hands of non-state actors. I also believe terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), and al-Qaeda with its powerful affiliate alShabab that have ravaged the horn of Africa will be boosted with a war-torn Sudan. Somalia is a typical example of how a country can go ahead and become very unstable after

civil wars and its effect within nearby countries as can be seen in the activities of al-Shabab in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Sudan. In West Africa, Africa’s biggest economy Nigeria might be hit with more terror from Boko Haram and ISWAP if care is not taken especially from the Chadian axis. The only gleam of hope lies in the Chadian military effort to protect their borders, but this requires joint efforts from all countries involved. There is also FALSE HOPE: Leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, centre, and his deputy Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, left, hold up the framework agreement last December (photo: Mahmoud Hjajvia/ Getty Images)

the spectre of a refugee crisis. Sudanese people and foreigners are already evacuating the almost war-torn country, and this will be followed by huge pressure on poor countries within. Egypt, Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea and South Sudan will most likely experience most of the incoming refugees from Sudan but no nearby country is free. Europe should also expect a crisis as can be seen with the Libyan experience as stable countries within the Mediterranean have served as police guards to the borders with Europe. But how long will these borders stand if tested? Then there is the crises of poverty, food shortages and inflation. Economies will be overstretched resulting in poverty, lack of food and clean water, inflation, and eventually deaths. A worse situation bigger than that of Ukraine could be seen. Africa as a continent is not ready for this crisis and all its problems. We have seen an unstable Nigeria with its questioned elections and bat-

tle with insecurity; an unstable Congo, Somalia, Mozambique, etc which shows the continent is already over-stretched. Russia, America, the Chinese, and other interests should be secondary as the lives and safety of the people of Sudan must be primary and paramount. As usual, African Union (AU) has failed again in managing this long-expected crisis which even brings to question its usefulness to the continent. Diplomacy must be the key as the two Generals have to understand that a peaceful Sudan is nothing but a win-win for all. You must first have a people before leadership. Ceasefires should be respected by both groups and AU, the UN should continue their diplomatic discussions, and peace restored in Khartoum and other parts of Sudan. A standing, stronger and bigger Sudan is absolutely what the Sudanese people and the African continent need now, and all efforts must be made to save the republic

Chimaobi Omeye is the Coordinator of the Commonwealth Correspondents with over seven years of experience in freelance journalism on issues of governance, security, energy, and the environment. He is a Commonwealth Youth Ambassador and an advocate for constitutional reforms, good leadership, and stability

30 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Youth

Youth peacebuilding is crucial for the Sahel

The region is the most impacted by terrorism in the world — but young people hold the key for a better tomorrow. By Victor Okechukwu Chimezie

HE SAHEL is a region in Africa made up of about 13 countries. It is located between the Sahara to the north and the Sudanian savanna to the south. It is recognised by the United Nations as a region of huge opportunity with about 64 per cent of the population being below 25 years. But it is seriously bedeviled by climate problems, insecurity and overpopulation, which are the three major problems facing the region. The problem of insecurity has further worsened in recent times. The Global Terrorism Index 2023 report of the Institute for Economics and Peace has shown the region to be the epicentre of terrorism and also the region most impacted by terrorism across the world. This is a serious challenge that needs to be tackled immediately by concerted efforts from everyone. Terrorism can be defined as the intimidation or coercion of populations or governments through the threat or perpetration of violence, causing death, serious injury or the taking of hostages. This affects the lives and properties of people of any nation negatively and also inhibits sustainable development of any society, which makes it a terrible menace. The insecurity challenge has significantly deteriorated across the Sahel with over 4.1 million persons displaced in year 2022 alone. The region also accounts for more deaths due to terrorism than the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region and South Asia combined, as stated

in the Global Terrorism Index 2023 report, with a 2,000 per cent increase in deaths in 15 years. Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria have been the most hit among countries in the region with attacks from terror groups due to current political instability and from successive weak governments characterised by corruption, impunity, and disorganisation. Their elites have failed to provide security for vast sections of the population. Corruption has also led to unpaid troops deserting as seen in Nigeria. The Sahel is also one of the world’s poorest regions, a situation brought about by climate problems alongside a huge unemployment rate, which makes life difficult and recruitment easy for terrorist groups. With about 65 per cent of the population of the Sahel region being youths, it’s an amazing opportunity to utilise its youthful energy to start working more intentionally towards peacebuilding. This can be done by engaging grassroots youths and those in remote areas on basic peacebuilding and conflict prevention and resolution skills. This can be done by international funders in direct partnership with civil society organisations whose members are the youths of the region. The governments across the region have also fallen short with their weak structures and institutions that have left gaps open for Islamists and terrorist groups like Al Shabaab, Boko Haram and others to find a good foothold in the region. Therefore, the governments must begin to strengthen insti-

SERIOUS CHALLENGE: A recent report has shown the Sahel to be the epicentre of terrorism, but the region offers an opportunity to utilise its youthful energy with about 64 per cent of the population being below 25 years old tutions and provide good dividends of democracy and governance down to the grassroots and in every nook and cranny if we are to take back the region from the claws of terrorism. Religious and ethnic group leaders must continuously preach, live and breathe tolerance to their members so that there’s no room for intolerance and extremism, which do lead to terrorism when they become violent and deadly. It must be nipped in the bud at its earliest stage of detection. Lastly, achieving peace must be everyone’s responsibility. If we are to achieve sustainable peace and development in the Sahel region, all hands must be on deck in every way possible.

Where is the Sahel?

THE SAHEL part of Africa includes – from west to east – parts of northern Senegal, southern Mauritania, central Mali, northern Burkina Faso, the extreme south of Algeria, southern Niger, the extreme north of Nigeria, Cameroon and Central African Republic, central Chad, central and southern Sudan, the

extreme north of South Sudan, Eritrea, and the extreme north of Ethiopia. Traditionally, most of the people in the Sahel have been semi-nomads, farming and raising livestock in a system of transhumance, which is probably the most sustainable way of utilising the Sahel. The difference between the dry North with

higher levels of soil nutrients and the wetter South with more vegetation, is utilised by having the herds graze on high-quality feed in the North during the wet season, and trek several hundred kilometres to the South to graze on more abundant, but less nutritious feed during the dry period.

Victor Okechukwu Chimezie is the immediate past country coordinator for Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network in Nigeria, with six years experience in peacebuilding.

THE VOICE |31

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32 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Midlands News

By Veron Graham

Weaver dreaming of justice Human rights barrister Christian named lawyer of the year

OTTINGHAM-BORN HUMAN rights barrister Christian Weaver, while celebrating being named ‘Newcomer of the Year’ at the prestigious 2023 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards, took time to acknowledge those who have played a part in his success. On receiving the coveted trophy from Channel 4 News Correspondent and fellow author, Symeon Brown and Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, a leading barrister and renowned human rights champion, Weaver said: “Thank you to everyone who has continually supported me throughout my journey. Your encouragement and belief in my work has been invaluable and I’m sincerely grateful for each and every one of you.” Also taking the time to acknowledge his fellow nominees and later, the organisers of the event, he added: “It was a true privilege to be nominated alongside such remarkable individuals who are making a profound impact through their work. Learning about their incredible

contributions in legal aid is inspiring. Legal aid plays an indispensable role in ensuring equal access to justice for all members of society. It’s a vital lifeline that provides legal assistance to those who may otherwise face insurmountable barriers due to financial limitations. Every day, we witness the strength and resilience of our clients, which serves as a constant reminder of the importance and impact of our collective efforts. “Finally, I would like to thank all my colleagues at Garden Court North Chambers. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented professionals who have played a significant role in shaping my career. I wish also to take a moment to honour the late Mark George KC, Head of Chambers at Garden Court North when I joined. His support, both professionally and personally, has been instrumental in my growth.” Already a published author, Weaver came to national prominence last year in representing the family of Awaab Ishak, the two-year old who died of res-

HONOUR: Christian Weaver accepts his award from Channel 4’s Symeon Brown and Baroness Helena Kennedy KC piratory issues caused by excessive mould in the flat the toddler lived in with his parents in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. The coroner ruled that the

property owners, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, were negligent in not repairing the property. Weaver has since petitioned Parliament calling for changes

Enoch going above and beyond THANKFULLY, MANY Caribbean elders have been celebrated in recent months, often linked to anniversaries like the historic docking of SS Empire Windrush or Jamaican independence, but rarely because of their son’s performance at work! That is the case for Birminghambased Jane White, the 87-year-old Montserratian, who was honoured with a huge bouquet from Westside Business Improvement District (BID), for bringing their “hero” employee, street warden Enoch White, into the world! Elaine Weir, business liaison manager for Westside BID, said: “Enoch’s regularly in action across Westside — not only with his everyday assistance and guidance for workers and visitors, but often going above and beyond his duties. “His most recent outstanding mission was helping police officers to save a woman who had stumbled off a 12-foot high bridge into a deep part of the canal opposite the National Sea Life Centre earlier this month.

HE’S OUR HERO: Jane White, centre, flanked by son Enoch and Elaine Weir, Westside BID’s business liaison manager

“But this was by no means the first time he’s put himself on the line, with other actions including catching shoplifters, helping police to arrest violent criminals and always being first on the scene to calm down any situations where people are panicking. “Enoch really has become one of our heroes... and we wanted to thank his mum Jane, the woman who delivered him into the world and brought him up with such valuable principles.”

Enoch’s mum Jane arrived in Britain back in 1955 from Montserrat, working in the IMI arms factory in Aston and bringing up four children. She was widowed last year, but still lives in her home in Ward End, and is regularly visited by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Enoch, now 66, is the second eldest of Jane’s three children, and has three children himself, and nine grandchildren.

to legislation to prevent this tragic case being repeated. Pointing to his involvement in the case as a driver behind his award win, Weaver mused on

the optics of a young Black barrister winning such an award: “Maybe it could help inspire others from our community to get into the legal profession?”

WIC joins in celebrations for Windrush anniversary THE ROMAN Catholic Church’s West Indian Chaplaincy (WIC) has joined in the 75th anniversary celebration of the arrival of Empire SS Windrush at Tilbury Docks. The St Francis Centre in Handsworth, Birmingham, played host to the Chaplaincy’s well-received night of entertainment mixed with education, celebrating the Caribbean experience as a whole. Musical performances were joined by spoken word, presentations on a variety of topics like the history of reggae music, the contribution of the West Indian Regiment to the Armed Forces and also those of Caribbean immigrants to the NHS. Among the many heartfelt moments was the tribute paid by diabetes awareness campaigner Tony Kelly to his mother and two aunts who joined the NHS in the 1950s. Others included a presentation by

HOST: Ita Gooden with WIC founder Father Daniel McHugh retired midwife Monica Franklin on behalf of Petrus Patterson, a WIC member who came to the UK in 1956. The event was organised and hosted by WIC member Ita Gooden. Next up WIC will host a health forum on issues affecting Black men and women, on September 16 at Our Lady of the Caribbean Chapel Centre, Bayswater Road, Birchfield, B20 3AE. For more information, visit www.ourladyofgoodcounsel.org.uk/west-indianchaplaincy

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

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THE VOICE | 33

HACKNEY SHOWROOM PRESENTS

THE LEGENDS OF THEM AT BRIXTON HOUSE

023 is a momentous year for Hackney Showroom. Hot off the heels of their award-winning BURGERZ by Travis Alabanza which had its ﬁnal shows in March this year, followed by a run of their new show Tomorrow Is Already Dead by Ms Sharon Le Grand at Soho Theatre in June and the launch of their new stage on wheels, the Bobby Dazzler, Hackney Showroom in association with Brixton House, today announces the world première of The Legends of Them. Written and performed by award-winning reggae star, leading actor and Brixton luminary Sutara Gayle AKA Lorne Gee, marking her debut show as a writer-performer, the production, directed by Jo McInnes, opens at Brixton House on 19 September with previews from 14 September and runs until 30 September. The Legends of Them charts the story of Sutara Gayle’s extraordinary life - a pioneering female deejay on London’s infamous reggae scene in the 1980s, Lorna Gee cut her cloth performing for

ing on to have her hit single Got To Find A Way in the reggae charts for 6 weeks, Lorna won the BBC Radio London Reggae awards 2 years in a row in 1985 and 1986, followed by the 1992 New York, Tamika Reggae Award for best female Deejay.

the legendary Saxone, Coxsone and Nasty Rockers sound systems. A run-in with Linton Kwesi Johnson whilst waiting in the dole queue inspired her to write her ﬁrst single Three Weeks Gone (mi Giro) which she heard for the ﬁrst time on the radio whilst doing a stint in Holloway Prison. Go-

In 1985 her sister Cherry Groce was shot by the police, sparking the second Brixton Uprising and this landmark event in British history provides the socio-political backdrop to this compelling story. In her darkest hour, Lorna’s brother - internationally renowned guru Mooji - takes her to India to experience her ﬁrst Satsang (spiritual gathering) and it is Lorna’s spiritual encounter - with the 3 legends in her life as her spiritual guides, her mother, sister and ancestry Nanny of the Maroons - which frames this story. Neither a conventional play or musical, The Legends of Them is a unique theatrical, shared spiritual experience. Expect a no holds barred, intimate encounter with an outstanding virtuoso performer who conjures multiple characters in this epic story.

34 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Muyiwa Olarewaju

Nothing But Truth and Light

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

Community can help you cope with grief

COLLECTIVE HEALING: Embracing the pain can help you find the light of hope and renewal (photo: Getty Images)

Don’t drown in your tears — God recognises the pain of loss but has words of comfort

RIEF IS an intricate labyrinth of emotions, a journey that each of us will traverse at some point in our lives. Recently I went through a month that seemed so long it would never end as I was greeted with reports one after the other of people who were dear to me that had sadly died. The loss of a loved one, a heartache that strikes deep, can often leave us feeling shattered and adrift in a sea of sorrow. In these moments of darkness, it is essential to remember that even amidst the pain, a brighter tomorrow can and will emerge. Just as the night gives way to dawn, our grief can transform into healing and hope. Grief, like love, is a universal human experience that transcends cultural boundaries. The article Grief in the Black Community emphasises the significance of communal support and the role of collective healing within the Black community. The process of healing is not linear; it is a tapestry woven with threads of memories, tears, and shared stories. In my own case, it has been a blessing to have a community to lean on. A community though does not have to be many people, to my mind it is more the quality of the relationships not the quality. Dr Delroy Hall’s book, A Redemption Song, captures the essence of finding solace and renewal amid loss. Just as a phoenix rises from the ashes, our spirits can ascend from the depths of grief. Hall’s book reminds us that pain can be a catalyst for

growth, leading us towards a brighter tomorrow. Revelation 21:4 offers a promise that holds the power to soothe even the most wounded heart: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This verse speaks to a future where suffering will be replaced by eternal peace. While it may seem distant in moments of grief, holding onto this promise can offer a glimmer of hope. The words of Matthew 5:4 resonate deeply with those navi-

Navigating grief is an intensely personal journey gating loss: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” This verse is a gentle reminder that mourning is a natural part of the human experience, and it is through this process that we can find comfort. The very act of grieving is a testament to the love we shared with those we have lost. In John 16:22, Jesus imparts a message of enduring hope: “So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” This verse encapsulates the ebb and flow of human emotions. It acknowledges the pain

of separation while foreshadowing the eventual reunion that will bring boundless joy. Our grief is a chapter, not the entire story. Navigating grief is an intensely personal journey, one that requires patience, self-compassion, and the support of others. The process can be likened to a delicate dance with sorrow, where we move between remembrance and acceptance. While the pain of loss may never fully dissipate, it can evolve into a bittersweet symphony of cherished memories and lessons learned. As we embrace the possibility of a brighter tomorrow, it is important to do a number of very important things.

Lean on community: seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can be immensely healing. Express emotions: Allow yourself to feel a range of emotions without judgement. Journaling, creating art, or simply talking about your feelings can provide a healthy outlet for your grief. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself during this difficult time. Grief is not a linear process, and healing takes time. Just because someone else seems to be holding it together does not mean you have to. They are not in your shoes.

Hold onto faith: Whether through spiritual beliefs or a broader sense of hope, finding solace in the promise of a better future can provide comfort. Celebrate life: Honour the memory of your loved one by celebrating their life. Engage in activities they enjoyed or create rituals that help you feel connected to them. Professional support: If your grief becomes overwhelming, seeking the guidance of a therapist or counsellor can provide valuable tools for navigating your emotions. Prayer helps even if you have never prayed before, try it. Some people might

be experts at it but I promise you, it does not help them be better heard by God. Grief is a testament to the profound impact love has on our lives. A journey requires us to navigate through the depths of sorrow in order to reach the shores of healing. Just as dawn follows the darkest hour of the night, so too will a brighter tomorrow emerge from the shadows of grief. The pain we feel is a testament to the depth of our connections, and it is through embracing that pain that we can eventually find the light of hope and renewal. Hold on — change is coming; you will not drown in your grief.

Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE is Station Director at Premier Gospel Radio, a TV & Radio Broadcaster, and Principal of gospel group Muyiwa & Riversongz

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Lifestyle Alisha Fuller-Armah is growing Scotland’s finest organic mushrooms p40

Daniel Ashville is ‘Building Impossible’ on National Geographic p41

ART, THE WAY HE FEELS IT Em’kal Eyongakpa p36

Director Francesca Harper says ‘Ailey 2’ UK tour will be ‘exciting’ and ‘robust’ p43

36 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Lifestyle

Artist Eyongakpa speaks out

New Tate Modern exhibition celebrates the landscape across Africa — and gives us something to think about. By Joel Campbell

ORN TO Christian parents, living in his village around his grandparents for the first few years of his life, Em’kal Eyongakpa’s grandfathers (maternal and paternal) were herbalists/Shamans and his paternal grandmother was of Baha’i faith. His works at the Tate Modern’s A World In Common exhibition entitled, Ketoya speaks #1, (cluster II), 2016, explores the revolts against Germany’s colonial occupation of Kameroon (18841916), today’s Republic of Cameroon, as well as the British allied forces against the Germans. He describes his art as “a direct response to my observations and an attempt to transcribe what I feel”. With his exhibit featuring shadowy figures and blurred landscapes, reflecting his belief in spiritual spheres and ancestral energies, Lifestyle asked the artist to elaborate on how these elements contributed to the narrative of resistance against colonial occupation in Cameroon. “Ketoya speaks was recorded between March and April during over a month of intercessions and recordings in Manyu, in 2016,” he wrote. “It extends beyond resistance against German colonialism within the context of the Mpawmanku wars and other resistances from the different Ekoid ethnic nations in Manyu, in present day Cameroon. “It extends beyond the narratives from Nsanakang, Ejagamland by the chiefs and knowledge keepers, in words, codes, signs, on the battles between the Germans and the English during what is considered the First World War, on and around the graves of colonial officers, the relationships with subjects from the colonial states even a century later. I imagine the narratives of resistances against colonialism could be looked at in a myriad of ways. “The stretched time frame which creates a kind of opacity, non-tangibility around the subjects or landscapes are more related to ideas around combination of shutter time and with lens media’s abilities to reveal and conceal, just like Nsibidi, which is a system of recording and hiding knowledge, they are more metaphorical and evocative than

being related to my beliefs in the spirituality of my ancestors. “Nsibidi (Nsibiri), the system of recording, hiding, conveying knowledge used by various men and women associations in the larger cross river region (present day Manyu in the Cameroons and Cross River state in Nigeria). The lens’s ability to scientifically alter. “The unknown or inexperienced here are enhanced by the inability to completely control the image being written or made during spatial interventions on explored lands, when the photographic time is stretched, whilst the subject follows the pulses of the space. Also like Nsibidi characteristics and other indigenous knowledge systems that informs the practice, lens-based media reveal what is unseen by the unaided eye… the relationship at least conceptually with the apparent abilities of spirit mediums to see beyond the concrete prompted my preference for long exposures while creating images during interventions.

SPATIAL

“There is a quote I made over a decade ago , on the possible relationship between ‘shamanism’, other spirit mediation and certain lens-based media experiments in enabling us see what is unseen by the unaided eye. “If one imagines to negotiate mainly in spatial terms, be it via sound sculptures or visceral sculptural installations with interwoven, poetic and non-linear narratives. Looking at what survived slavery, colonialism, I think Nsibidi could provide indicators that would continue to inform fu-

INSPIRING: Em’kal

Eyongakpa’s art is ‘a direct response to my observations and an attempt to transcribe what I feel’

ture ways of being, based on its nuances and fluidity. “Being a ritual, a sacred language and writing system that has not been and cannot be completely owned, it would possibly benefit the colonised and compromised communities. This could add to ideas and readings of self preservation, in line with other sacred forms of recording knowledge, especially looking at historical contentions of indigenous and natural modes of being by and with colonialists. “Actions within Nsibidi practices among related ethnic groups appear to be intangible, ephemeral, during rites. That opacity, intangibility, non-permanence, non-linearity which characterises most of the oeuvre, (be it

ephemeral, acousmatic sonic monuments or inter media visceral installations), could be born from or be an attempt at viewing the practice or in this case image production via indigenous codes, filters, world views. “These elements tend to provide more complex readings of world views from the perspectives of the colonised, in this case the Ekoid groups within imaginary re-organisations, be them Ekoid confederation or imagined confederations of Nsibidi nations between current colonial borders or within the colonial nation states and the ever increasing identities borne from colonialism. “The land and the knowledge it holds informs the movements

of the subject(s) recorded during the fragments of time frozen via writing light, or photography. “The land and knowledge systems it holds should be evoked in whatever technology or methodology is used in its observation, I think, as that too could constitute a part of the resistance or an attempt to approach complexity in fairness.”

DYNAMIC

Featuring the work of 36 artists from different generations and geographies, A World in Common: Contemporary African Photography at Tate Modern celebrates the dynamic landscape of photography across the African continent today. With Kameroon’s history of re-

sistance against colonial forces deeply embedded in his work, for more insight into how Em’kal Eyongakpa navigates the balance between acknowledging the past and creating a contemporary artistic expression that resonates with audiences today, read his full explanation on our website. Readers can also find our next artist profile on Wura-Natasha Ogunji, whose A World in Common works, Will I still carry water when I am a dead woman?, focuses on the Egungun masquerade which women are not allowed to perform. A World in Common: Contemporary African Photography, is on at Tate Modern until January 14

TAKING YOUR BREATH AWAY:

Images from Em’kal Eyongakpa’s Ketoya speaks #1, (cluster II) explore the revolts against Germany’s colonial occupation of Kameroon

AUGUST 2023

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38 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Lifestyle

Exploitation, resilience and liberation

Landmark exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge explores the impact of the Black Atlantic. By Joel Campbell

HE LEAD Curator of Black Atlantic: Power, People, Resistance, Jake Subryan Richards, tells Lifestyle that being a part of the project was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. Starting this month, the Fitzwilliam Museum will host works made in West Africa, the Caribbean, South America and Europe, revealing global stories and histories of exploitation, resilience and liberation. Between 1400 and 1900, European empires colonised the Americas and transported over 12.5 million people to these colonies from Africa as slaves. Through resisting colonial slavery, people produced new cultures that continue to shape our world. In asking new questions about how Atlantic enslavement has shaped the University of Cambridge’s collections, novel discoveries have been made about the objects, the people who collected them, and how their stories connect Cambridge to a global history of colonialism. “What really brought me to the project was the exciting scope of it,” Richards told Lifestyle. The Assistant Professor of International History at the London School of Economics and

Political Science added: “We really just started with a basic research question which was, how far and in what ways did Atlantic slavery and empire shape the university of Cambridge museums? “This is a group of museums in Cambridge which are run by the university and their collections are really wide ranging, they have five millions objects and these range from historic fine art through to contemporary fine art, Botany, Zoology, the history of science, anthropology and archaeology and earth sciences.

HISTORIES

“These institutions, a lot of them have links that go back to the 18th century; some were established much more recently in the 20th century, so their own institutional histories are really varied. “I think working with such a wide range of collections was really attractive. The fact that the Cambridge museums as a group of museums had all committed publicly to doing this work, showed a direction of travel which I thought, as an academic, was worth helping with in terms of the academic research and seeing where we can go with it.”

Black Atlantic will begin by looking at the early history of the Museum and its founder, Viscount Richard Fitzwilliam (17451816). A student at Cambridge, Fitzwilliam left a large sum of money and an extensive art collection to the University upon his death in 1816, founding the Museum that is named after him. Until now the origins of his money have largely been ignored. This exhibition will reveal how a significant part of Fitzwilliam’s wealth and art collection was inherited from his grandfather Matthew Decker, a prominent Dutch-born British merchant and financier who in 1700 helped to establish the South Sea Company, which obtained exclusive rights to traffic African people to the Spanish colonial Americas. By reflecting on these origins, the exhibition will reveal how the legacies of Atlantic enslavement and exploitation continue to affect the world today. While it’s always prudent to follow the money, Richards is keen to point out that the wealth accrued is only one facet that interests him. “Really what’s been behind a lot of the research is to think about how Atlantic slavery shaped these museums and maybe to begin with people will think, well, is that about shaping those institutions in terms of the wealth behind them, because that’s what a lot of the work in this area has been like in the UK so far. “That is certainly part of what we have been doing. “But equally and just as importantly we’re looking at who collected the objects and entities in the collections, what type of knowledge entered the collections with these objects and entities and how they are organised and categorised. So it’s

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ON DISPLAY: Jan Jansz Mostaert, Portrait of an African Man, c. 1525-30. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam; inset, Donald Locke, Redoubt, 1972. © Estate of Donald Locke / Photographer TW Meyer

also about the knowledge and skills that lie behind the collections, not just the finances, that has been really fundamental to our research and our exhibition.” The exhibition will have four sections. The first, Glimpses of the World Before Transatlantic Enslavement, will spotlight the independent histories of West Africa, the Caribbean and Europe before they were connected by Atlantic enslavement.

PROFITS

Cambridge Wealth from Atlantic Enslavement will reveal how the profits of enslavement filtered into everyday life in Britain. Fashion, Consumption, Racism and Resistance looks at how products harvested by enslaved people, from mahogany, ivory and turtle shell to coffee, sugar cane and tobacco, became both fashionable materials for European luxury goods, and central to everyday consumption in Britain. The final chapter, Plantations:

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mental role in collecting specimens and collecting objects and knowing about the value of these objects. But their stories and records about their lives have largely been either forgotten or silenced.”

Black Atlantic: Power, People, Resistance The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB September 8, 2023 to January 7, 2024 Admission Free

LEGACY

Production and Resistance, will focus on the enslaved people in the Americas who lived and worked on plantations. It will highlight the contribution of Indigenous, enslaved and free Black people to major scientific discoveries and botanical knowledge, which were brought back to Britain. Elaborating on some of the more novel discoveries made about the objects and the people who collected them during the research, Richards said: “One thing that really stood out was that enslaved and free Black people, people of African descent, really played a funda-

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Luke Syson, Director and Marlay Curator of the Fitzwilliam Museum, said: Black Atlantic: Power, People, Resistance is an important moment in the history of the Fitzwilliam. “Reflecting on the origins of our museum, the exhibition situates us within an enormous transatlantic story of exploitation and enslavement, one whose legacy is in many ways as pervasive and insidious today as it was in the 17th, 18th or 19th century. “Our exhibition is greatly indebted to the contemporary artists whose work is featured. They have looked to the past to imagine a different future.”

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AUGUST 2023

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40 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Lifestyle

Shroom with a view for farmer Alisha

UP FOR A CHALLENGE: Alisha Fuller-Armah swapped Jamaica for Scotland during lockdown; left to right, freckled chestnut, sakura oyster and lion’s mane are among the types of mushroom grown on her estate

Alisha Fuller-Armah’s gourmet mushroom estate is proving a big hit with the country’s leading chefs. By Joel Campbell

N HER own words Alisha Fuller-Armah is ‘a proud Black mushroom farmer in Scotland’. Having sold her former business as a proprietor of a destination wedding venue in Jamaica (Hummingbird Hall), just before the lockdown in 2019, Fuller-Armah told Lifestyle at that point in her life she was looking for new horizons, a new endeavour, a new place to call home. Her decision to leave the industry came about due to increasing competition from big corporate competition who were literally ripping off her ever evolving unique selling points, however, the one thing they couldn’t offer was wholesome, organic mushrooms. She says offering high quality mushrooms was a big hit with the clients who used to frequent her venue, but never in a million years did she realise just how her newly acquired skill-set, born out of a need to differentiate themselves from the fierce competition, would go down a storm in her new place of abode. Nestled within the remote wilds of south-west Scotland lies Fuller-Armah’s 15-acre estate, where she and her family cultivate an array of exquisite mushrooms. Remarkably, Fuller-Armah taught herself how to grow mushrooms using the internet and within just two years of returning to the UK, having lived in

Jamaica for a decade, her produce had garnered admiration from discerning food enthusiasts and fine dining establishments alike. Establishing herself as the owner of one of Scotland’s leading gourmet mushroom farms, Fuller-Armah told Lifestyle that while adjusting and settling into their new home proved a challenge, where they are now as a family and business owners is beyond their wildest dreams. “It’s been quite meteoric,” Fuller-Armah said. “I don’t want to sound arrogant. Maybe within a year and a half, people knew about us. “With agriculture here they want to know what you have been doing, almost for the last century, before some of the chefs, restaurants and farm shops will take you on.” Fuller-Armah resides with her mother and son, who, with the help of part-time staff members, run the Deer Manor Gourmet Mushrooms estate. She says they knew absolutely no one there when they arrived at what was a fairly dilapidated building. Despite that, the entrepreneur says the way they have been received by the locals, is “testament to how accepting they can be if you’re doing something new”. “It’s weird because my background is that I studied Art History and Social Anthropology (BA

and MPhil at Cambridge University), and have a PhD in Business Management. But I didn’t have a background in farming at all.” She added: “In Jamaica our family had land, most people have land in the Caribbean, so we’d done it (farming) on a very small scale. “I actually learned to grow mushrooms by YouTube and Reddit, and mushroom forums. “Scotland Food and Drink, who are the industry body for Scotland, are quite excited about what we are doing. Organic gourmet mushrooms are a unique offering and an addition to the traditional Scottish farming landscape.” Just for the record, these aren’t just any old mushrooms, you probably won’t see them in your leading super markets any time soon either. The produce and its cultivation are centred on excellence. She admits that for the first six months of growing she only serviced local farmers due to not being as confident in what she was doing, but things have, er, mushroomed very with quickly with some of the UK’s finest restaurants, private chefs, nutritionists, farm shops and award juries having lauded Fuller-Armah’s product due to the remote growing conditions, unhurried and patient processes, and the care that comes with being farmed in small batches. Explaining more, FullerArmah, enthused: “The chefs

seem to tell each other, which has been heartening. When we started, I wasn’t even selling it to the local population, as it were, but when one chef got excited others did too. “Before any chef takes any produce on these days they actually have to come and see you, because in order to get a Michelin Star it’s about the quality of produce. “They don’t want to see for example that you are taking short cuts, there are some dodgy practices in agriculture. “When one chef came, I was like ok, this is alright. Then another came and that’s when I started thinking, maybe we are onto something here. Then another came and that made us slightly more confident in the produce. They were coming and they were happy with the set up. “Provenance in agriculture is really important at the moment for those chefs and restaurants, they try and tell the story.” Winning over chefs, farmers’ markets, wholesale suppliers and the well established circuit of mushroom outlets that hold to the Deer Manor Gourmet Mushrooms standard has been a big win for FullerArmah and her family. But some would say it pales in comparison to the undertaking they experienced when they landed in their remote part of Scotland. To put it into perspective, during the

interview, Fuller-Armah refers to the ‘other Black family’ that she knows, living 100 miles away from her. The closest Caribbean restaurant is 150 miles away. Such is the remoteness of where the estate is based, before she invested in Starlink, w h i c h enables internet connectivity, tech she has used since Storm Arwen, FullerArmah would have to drive three miles down the road to try and get a signal via her own hotspot on a dodgy 3G network. She has a generator in case the electricity goes, there’s central heating now too, but that wasn’t the case when they got there. “We lived on the Rose Hall estate in Jamaica and when we decided to move, we wanted somewhere that had space. When you’re used to that space we found the idea of not having that space difficult. “We contacted realtors, told them we wanted somewhere with space that was beautiful and Scotland was more affordable than down south. “We were up for a renovation and was looking in Wales, Somerset, everywhere really. “When we came up to look at it, it was in the middle of lockdown and it was just falling apart, you couldn’t get into some of the rooms, in one room you could see the sky, but we went in

there and had a good vibe about the place. Initially, we stayed in a barn conversion that a farmer had for three months while they rewired the place and put new plumbing in and they made one room habitable. Then we camped in one room while they finished. “It took a year to do the whole thing. The first year was awful, we didn’t have proper central heating, the carpets hadn’t gone in, I won’t dress it up, it was horrific. “We’d never set a fireplace up let alone learned how to position the wood so that it lasts, we had no experience of that at all. The first year was a huge learning curve. Some of the farmers around here were a big help. They were very welcoming.” Having survived the first year, Fuller-Armah says they installed some double glazing, made sure to insulate the building well and are generally more respectful of the bitter Scottish winter weather. Aside from one or two herds of cattle rampaging through her grounds every now and again, for the most part, things have gone excellently for her. As mushrooms and organic foods grow in popularity, it’s safe to say that the Deer Manor Gourmet Mushrooms estate, driven by Fuller-Armah and family, will be experiencing even more growth and prosperity. A look at the journey so far and it’s clear to see just why she is ‘a proud Black mushroom farmer in Scotland’.

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE |

Lifestyle

Daniel’s impossible dream

Construction expert and TV newcomer Daniel Ashville takes viewers on an exploration of the world’s most extraordinary builds. By Joel Campbell

OU MIGHT have seen Daniel Ashville’s face popping up here and there at celebrity events such as the recent GRM Gala in London and wondered, who is that guy? If you’re not into all things buildings, heavy machinery and engineering, you will be forgiven for not being au fait. But that’s all set to change as the businessman hosts the National Geographic’s flagship new series Building Impossible with Daniel Ashville. Kicking off this month, the sixpart series takes viewers on a unique exploration of the world’s most extraordinary and precarious builds. The show pushes the boundaries of what is considered achievable, showcasing architectural marvels that defy imagination. From the construction of the world’s largest ocean-going cruise liner, The Icon of the Seas, in Finland, to the ground-break-

“It was a very good feeling, and not one I have had many times before” ing Brenner Tunnel beneath the Alps on the Italy-Austria border,to the construction of one of the South Africa’s longest cablestayed bridges, spanning the awe-inspiring Msikaba Gorge, each episode showcases architectural marvels that push the boundaries of possibility. No stranger to being on camera, Ashville started the ad hoc filming of content surrounding his own business six years ago. Starting out with a video entitled ‘New Mini Grab Loader – The Team’s “Baby Grab”’, 453K subscribers and 239 videos later, the entrepreneur has come a long way. In fact, he’s been on a remarkable 17-year journey. From flipping houses to establishing The Ashville Group, comprising Ashville Construction for design and build residential projects, Ashville Aggregates and Concrete for aggregates supply and waste management services, and Ash-

ville Plant Hire for equipment and machinery hire, the former model has cemented his position as one of the country’s top experts in his field. In his spare time, of which he admits there is little, he does gym and likes a bit of boxing, but nothing gets him going like a conversation about engineering and all things construction. With the beginning of the show fast approaching, it’s all happening for Ashville, a situation he’s adjusting to. “I’m still getting used to it,” he admits. “The filming process when it all happened, that’s what I do on a daily basis anyway, because as you know, I keep up with my own content and I continue to make my own videos, so when I was filming it was pretty normal, but I think when it first hit me was when the adverts started running on television and my mum saw the advert. “I got the phone call and that when I had to take a seat and exhale.” He added: “When you work day in and day out and you’re facing challenges and you’re overcoming them, the wins are so small, that you never really enjoy anything. You’re like, ‘I got to get up tomorrow, I got to go to work, I haven’t got time for all of this’. “But when it first went on television, I sat down for a minute and just ... It was a good feeling, a very good feeling and not one I have had many times before.” Speaking on securing Ashville as host for the show, Commissioning Editor at National Geographic, Simon Raikes, said: “Daniel Ashville’s passion, expertise, and handson approach make him the perfect guide for this awe-inspiring journey. “We are proud to bring this extraordinary series to our viewers, as it exemplifies National Geographic’s commitment to exploration, innovation, and storytelling that inspires us to see the world in a new light.” Elaborating on where his love for construction came from, Ashville, who turned his back on a potential career in sports science, said: “I was the guy who would look at how everything was built.

HANDS-ON APPROACH: Daniel Ashville collaborates with teams tackling major engineering challenges “My mum will tell you I wanted Lego, I wanted train sets, I need to look at what the dustcart was doing, I need to see what the trucks are doing. “In St Lucia, my uncle used to run trucks, so I might not be able to fix them, but I would lie underneath the truck with him just so I got dirty and would look like I was involved. “I started my construction

company a long time ago and as the company grew, I diversified to provide services for other construction companies. “In 2020, I started making videos (regularly). I wanted to share what I was doing because when I wanted to learn, I couldn’t get answers out of anyone. “The majority of my competition are third and fourth and they can do things I can’t do, so

I thought I have to work to my strengths, I’m just a guy in a yard with a couple of lorries, I need people to know what I am doing. So I started to share my experiences.” It proved a shrewd move for Ashville. His content was brought to the attention of National Geographic following a conversation he’d had with producers who had seen his online presence

PERFECT GUIDE: Daniel breaks things down in a way the viewer can understand

and shared a desire to create a programme like Building Impossible with Daniel Ashville. Viewers will see Ashville’s hands-on approach as he collaborates with teams tackling awe-inspiring engineering challenges, demonstrating that the impossible can indeed become possible. “What I hope people take from this, when they see these large buildings, I feel that I’ve asked the questions that I wanted to know and I broke it down in a way that people can understand,” Ashville said. “So when you see a massive ship, for example, you can say that it’s built it like this and they did it like that. “Hopefully, I’ve broken it down so that the mass build projects of buildings and bridges that people see, that they too can understand it and they too can be a part of the journey when they are walking, looking around a building.” Building Impossible with Daniel Ashville, premieres on National Geographic at 8pm on September 14. Watch the full interview with Daniel Ashville on our website.

42 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

This is Brukout!

by Seani B

Likkle Sean’s big adventure Sumfest was the perfect trip for me to reconnect with the ‘Man’

EMOTIONAL:

Uncle Freddie ensured there wasn’t a dry eye in the house; below, yours truly interviewing Skatta and Shane Brown

PROMISE YOU; it wasn’t supposed to be a work trip! But who am I kidding, especially if we are off to Jamaica for 10 days. Likkle work haffi gwan, nuh true? The WE in this conversation was my son, who turned 18 in July. This wasn’t our first trip to Jamrock together, but the first since he tink him tun man. This trip was for me to reconnect with the ‘Man’ he had thought he had become and I couldn’t choose a better location than Jamaica to show him what real life is about Upon landing in Kingston I took him on a quick visit of some of my spots that I frequent on my ‘work’ trips and make him meet a few of the stars from the capital city. ‘Likkle Sean’ was his new moniker given to him by many of the playas in the Kingston Street parties throughout the night, but the only person that really grabbed his attention and made him ask, “Who was that, dad?”, was Rodney Pryce. When I said ‘Bounty Killer’ he couldn’t hold back the excitement in meeting The Warlord. It was as if he had just met one of his Marvel heroes’! I genuinely did not know that my growing son had any interest in what I have been engrossed in for the last 30 years of my life since being his age. He had

grown in my bubble, but to my knowledge had no interest or just saw it as another day of my dad and his work. The next chapter of our journey was the three-hour plus drive to Mobay for Sumfest, with a quick pit stop in Ocho Rios. Driving into Ochi, through Fern Gully, made me realise how much of the beauty of Jamaica I don’t get to see due to my hectic work schedule usually. The winding roads through the rain forest drive is simply

magical! The anticipation for Sumfest was slightly tempered as the murmurings in the street was that the line up this year seemed to lack the WOW factor that was present in 2022. I was just excited to get to Catherine Hall to absorb what always seemed like a great show whilst watching with envy in the early mornings from my bed in London. Shout out to Visit Jamaica, which had its own booth at the venue and helped to keep the party vibes up during band changes. with DJ Crazy Neil keeping things moving. Around the perimeter of the venue were multiple booths like this that created an almost carnival-like vibe continuously. Night one was Dancehall Night and we arrived just after midnight knowing I had missed the 90s badness performance with Harry Toddler, General B, and more. I was at the rehearsal in Kingston a few days before and wanted to see how it panned out and how the various characters gelled on the stage. The reason for me missing that performance was because production was on point.

These shows have a notorious reputation for running late, but not this year! With a very clear clock on the side of the stage all the acts knew exactly Wha Gwan. If I was to go by my son’s reaction, Bayka, who is one of the rising stars from this new generation, was well received even though he was removed from the stage for continuous use of some colourful Jamaica badwords. Jahvillani really impressed me with his performance that night. When I caught up with him backstage all he could say to me was, “Mi love it, mi love. Ah me do it and mi love it”. There was no hanging around though as Marcel wanted to catch the man of the moment. This was Valiant’s first Sumfest after breaking through last year September. His command of the Ruffcut Band and the stage shows that this kid has so much more to give with a executed set. Someone that I had believed in 11 years ago and knew had so much more at that time was Masicka. Now signed to Def Jam records,, the Sumfest stage was his stage. I watched on smiling as he delivered hit

“To see Freddie performing made all who was watching choke a little” after hit, performing with so much maturity and leaving the Catherine Hall attendees fulfilled. I wondered how young Marcel would contend night two as we were just walking out of the venue at 730am after watching Tommy Lee with a very real performance talking about his last few years incarcerated. Night two at Sumfest seemed a little more relaxed and easier for Reggae Night as I networked backstage in the media tent. It was so relaxed the young genna fell asleep for 45 minutes during Morgan Heritages set that was riddled with hit songs. When I met up with the family after the show, their Mojo told me, “It’s the first time we have performed in Jamaica since daddy’s passing and 10 years since we have touched the

Sumfest stage, so it was a special one.” What was special for me and nearly made me drop a few tears was The McGregors’ performance with Uncle Freddie in his throne. My word, it was special! I saw everyone that was in the VIP area with their reggae chairs up on their feet for the whole set. To see Freddie performing with his family after his stroke last year made all who was watching choke a little bit. Closing Sumfest this year was the much anticipated Minister Marion Hall. With the Jamaican sun rising in the background, out stepped the former Queen of the dancehall in a long trench coat spitting fire. For a moment I swore it was Lady Saw. In all honesty she is who she is and that came through in the early hours. Marion may have a different message but that delivery is straight dancehall and I walked out of the Visit Jamaica sanctuary to get closer to the stage to feel that energy. So did we enjoy Sumfest? Let me put it this way, Likkle Sean asked me if this happens every year! So you can take that as a firm YES.

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 43

Lifestyle

US dancers to shine in the UK

‘EXCITED’: Ailey 2 Artistic Director Francesca Harper has put together an exhilarating repertoire (photo: Nir Arieli)

New York company Ailey 2 performs first British tour since 2011. By Joel Campbell

ITH A 12-venue tour kicking off this month, the 12 young dancers of Ailey 2 are set to bring their New York expression and energy to the UK for the first time since 2011. The company’s new Artistic Director Francesca Harper, an internationally-renowned performer and choreographer, has put together an exhilarating repertoire by a diverse range of choreographers which includes a timeless classic from Alvin Ailey himself. Looking ahead to the tour, Harper told Lifestyle: “We’re really excited to be touring the UK and we have a really robust tour. “It’s the first time that Ailey 2, is going out to Europe since

I have taken over in 2021.” She added: “We have these extraordinary dancers. “We are, at Ailey 2, the bridge between taking the dancers from The Ailey School, and training them to be professional artists. “So you are really capturing the dancers at a time that they’re just so hungry, kinda at their peak in terms of their enthusiasm and their commitment. So we’re really excited to bring the dancers to you.” Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey 2 are companies with a strong family ethos. Harper embodies this. She took her first dance steps at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where her mother Den-

ise Jefferson was director, from 1984-2010. Speaking on what inspired her repertoire selection for this tour, she enthused: “I’ve been around for many decades I started as a child at the Ailey School, my mother was the director for about 26 years, so I really grew up in the Ailey family, so to speak. So watching the Alvin Ailey dancers was a big part of my inspiration. “For me it’s been full circle coming back. I’m actually returning to Europe which was my home for about a decade. “The programmes are really indicative of that.” A look at the programme sees the inclusion of Revelations, the company’s signature piece, choreographed by Ailey

when he was only 29 years old in 1960. A life-changing work, it has been seen by more than 23 million people in 71 countries, more than any other modern dance work. Using African American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues, Revelations explores the deepest reaches of the soul. The company will also perform the intensely propulsive central section of William Forsythe’s 1989 work, Enemy in the Figure.

The choreography is driven by Thom Willem’s percussive and rhythmic electronic score which also influences the radical use of light and shadow in its design. Freedom Series, created by Harper in 2021, is inspired by her Ailey homecoming. She said: “Freedom Series is the first piece that I choreographed as Artistic Director, and it’s very much a piece that travels down the landscape of memories. “I really took and created a series of vignettes that are al-

most this hybrid language of choreography, myself being inspired by the dancers and also their own choreographic and personal offering. And it’s really for me how memories strive to influence the future.” The tour kicks off with the UK premiere at Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury on September 19 and will be showing at various locations until October 28. Check out the full interview with Francesca Harper on our website

19 – 20 Sep CANTERBURY Marlowe Theatre 22 – 23 Sep SOUTHAMPTON Mayflower Theatre 26 –27 Sep PLYMOUTH Theatre Royal Plymouth 29 – 30 Sep MILTON KEYNES Milton Keynes Theatre 3 – 4 Oct BIRMINGHAM Hippodrome 6 – 7 Oct NORWICH Theatre Royal

10 – 11 Oct NOTTINGHAM Royal Concert Hall 13 – 14 Oct SALFORD The Lowry 17 – 18 Oct BRADFORD Alhambra Theatre 20 – 21 Oct HULL New Theatre 24 – 25 Oct NEWCASTLE Theatre Royal 27 – 28 Oct INVERNESS Eden Court

fic. i r r e t s k o o l ny eirs” a p m o c e r i t “The en rly, the future is th Clea The New York

Times

danceconsortium.com

Ailey 2 in Alvin Ailey’s Revelations. Photo by Nir Arieli

Dance Consortium presents

44 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

Lifestyle

HERE WAS a moment when a gentle blue wave met the white sand beneath me, taking the seashells below. A once bright sky slowly dimmed to yellow, then pink and orange; mosaic of colours between the palm trees in the distance. I could still hear splashes and excited voices of people just yards from me. They were clearly locals because of the small distinct pangs in which their words drifted off. At that moment, I knew I was home. My journey to Barbados, one of the countries of my heritage, was shrouded in not only heightened anticipation but also the cultural significance of returning during the season of carnival. My stay on the island began in the parish of Christchurch at the Abidah by Accra Hotel. Located on the southcoast, it boasted a luxurious, adult-only accommodation with views overlooking the blue waters of Enterprise Bay. It was just a few minutes walk from the popular fishing village of Oistins where their Friday Night Fish-Fry of lobster, dolphin (or Maui Maui) and of course fish is a legendary staple of the island.

Travel

Sun never sets in Barbados

So much to do and see during Crop Over festival, writes Leah Mahon

Off to the races

Not far from there, I attended the Barbados Derby at the Garrison Savannah, St Michael. Along with the national sport of cricket, any true sports fan would hail horse racing as a focal point of activities on the island. Whether you’re a betting man (or woman), a day at the races offers so much more for all the family including parades, picnics and street food vendors. For fans, there is the option to view the day’s racing in the vast stalls, but others can choose to bask in the exclusive members’ lounge or boxes which boasts a bar and picturesque views of the race course. A vibrant and colourful culture found in carnival, music and cuisine is what Barbados is famed for. Amid this is the popular dance move called, WukUp, better known as “working up your waistline” which has roots in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Wuking-Up

The dance move focuses on the isolation of the limbs and movement of the hips through the waistline. In preparation for the road, we met at the PowerHouse Studios for our very own Wuk-Up workshop led by dancer and choreographer Sim Simma, right. There, I was put through my paces with some key moves to some of the biggest soca hits. To Wuk-Up in true carnival spirit, it could be a solo mission, partnered or even on all fours! Despite the choreography, the essence of Wuking-Up is to simply feel the beat.

Cool Runnings

Looking out onto crystal blue waters with a mimosa in hand is probably what many travel to Barbados for, but

those that dare to venture beyond the white sand beaches are sure to find a new side to the tropical island. Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises has been voted second Most Popular Attraction by the globally recognised Zagat Survey as “the Rolls-Royce of catamaran excursions” in Barbados. Setting sail on their lunch or sunset cruise offers unlimited food and drinks as well as the chance to take a swim.

If you’re not a seasoned swimmer like me, the crew supplies you with life vests with great diving points around the boat. For me, the highlight was being able to be in the ocean again which took me right back to my first trip to the island. There’s also room for a spot of snorkelling to see some of the sea turtles and exotic fishes that call the water home. Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises offer great views of the surrounding area with different stops throughout your tour, but also there’s still time to relax for the sunbathers among your group.

@thevoicenewspaper

“To Wuk-Up in true carnival spirit, it could be partnered or even on all fours!” Soca Forever

Crop Over season runs from July 1 until Kadooment Day. The island is busy and booming with soca anthems in the build up to the long road. In Bridgetown, Barbados hosted the ultimate

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voicenews

beach party, Lifted, where party-goers can Wuk-Up the night away on warm sandy beaches. The night offered some of the best soca hits on the island, but also throughout the Caribbean with DJs such as Private Ryan and Jus-Jay keeping the soca energy high. What stood out to me was the ode to the music of the Black diaspora as they played classics from Nigeria’s Afrobeat to South Africa’s Amapiano. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a VIP ticket, you’ll be treated to exclusive access to a private bar and

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SEPTEMBER 2023

THE VOICE | 45

Lifestyle

Travel

MAGICAL EXPERIENCE: Above, Leah took to the road with Zulu International; top right, Derby Day at the Garrison Savannah; right, Foreday sees thousands party until sunrise

sitting area. It wouldn’t be a beach party also if you didn’t try the regular shisha on offer. The sun truly never sets in Barbados — at least it does not feel like it! At Bellevue Plantation, one of the very first plantations on the island and built in 1735, hundreds attended the Mimosa Premium Breakfast Party. Don’t let the sunrise fool you into thinking that the party’s over as you have an array of drinks on offer, accompanied with soca music and of course breakfast offering one of the island’s delicacies, Bajan pancakes.

Into the night

What many in the Caribbean know as J’ouvert, is known as Foreday in Barbados. Dubbed the night parade, it’s a street party that can see up to thousands party from the early hours of the night until sunrise. My first Foreday morning fete experience was with Native Caribbean, where we were given our very own shirts to wear amid what would be alot of paint! Foreday is arguably the biggest party to be at before hitting the road and the biggest sign there is that Crop Over season is in town. But don’t let the lack of sun and bedtime hours mislead

you! Foreday was packed with travelling soca music and overflowing rum punch, Wuking-Up where the beat and night took you. We really did party until the sun came up.

Grand Kadooment

The morning of Grand Kadooment has a different kind of energy in the air. This day is what the Crop Over season is all about and everything before then was in preparation for the road. My Trinidadian side had always thought as masqueraders we would be traditionally “playing mas”. but in Barbados when thousands take to the streets it’s known locally as “jumping”. It was my very first carnival parade, but to have the opportunity to jump in the Caribbean itself was a special moment for me knowing the history of carnival. I took to the road with Zulu International. It is one of the biggest mas bands in Barbados that has even caught the attention of Rihanna. They are known for their whimsical and fantasy-like designs across four sections inspired by Greek mythology. I jumped with their Demeter section, known as the Goddess of agriculture, fertility, and the harvest.

On the road, soca music could be heard for miles. Being on the road, it took me through the neighbourhoods of Barbados, where someone to Wuk-Up with or to keep energies high was never far away. Grand Kadooment was a dream amid the flowing feathers and glowing crystals that make up the glamour of carnival, it was knowing I was walking in the spirit and to the beat of my ancestors which made the road even more special. My time in Barbados was magical and returning to the place of my heritage after so long felt surreal. I saw moments of what I knew growing up, from the macaroni pie and Bajan pepper sauce for dinner, to suddenly remembering how to play dominoes by the beach. It was the pink, orange and yellow sunsets by the beach, the hello from the local walking by and the way of life that made it seem that everything would be alright. On my last day at the Abidah by Accra Hotel, I said my farewells to the kind staff that made Barbados home to me for the week and that my Monday morning work day away from paradise was pending. “You have to stay,” said one of them. “You’re a Bajan now.”

TRADITION: End of Crop Over is marked by a big occasion filled with fun and merriment

What is Crop Over?

CROP OVER season begins on July 1 every year in Barbados and is traditionally marked by blessing the harvest that have strong Afro-Caribbean origins. The island is known for its vast sugar plantations during the slave trade that enslaved people spent gruelling hours working on. At the end of the harvest, what many call “crop over”, they would mimic their slave owners with the traditions from their African heritage that they held onto through costume, dance, folk characters and music. Nowadays, the festival has distinct Bajan roots with soca often heard as an anthem to festival-goers, but they also embrace the sounds of the

island such as calypso, raggoscoa and bashment soca. The strong and rhythmic beats are homage to Barbados’ links to Africa. End of Crop Over is marked by Kadooment Day, a Bajan term which means a “big occasion filled with fun and merriment”. This day is when hundreds of masqueraders take to the road, reminiscent of the folklore of their ancestors on the Mighty Gryner Highway behind music trucks that lead the way in true Crop Over spirit and endless energy. What is known to many Bajans as the “bacchanal” is a reminder of the pain of slavery to the joyous occasion that is Crop Over that is embraced by locals and visitors the world over.

46 | THE VOICE SEPTEMBER 2023

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

OF SPORT NEWSPAPER

Honing football talent A new partnership is aiming to develop the game at grassroots level in Nigeria. By Rodney Hinds

HARMM EQUEST, a leading Black entertainment company in the UK, and Power Rangers Football Academy Limited, a renowned football set-up and sports development organisation in Lagos, Nigeria, have joined forces to revolutionise grassroots football in Nigeria. These two organisations have also established links in other African states, including Ghana and South Africa. This partnership aims to bring about positive change by providing aspiring young footballers with enhanced opportunities and comprehensive training programs to nurture their talent. Under this groundbreaking collaboration, the two organisations will pool their expertise and resources to implement innovative strategies that empower young footballers and uplift

communities through the beautiful game. By combining their extensive experience in entertainment and Power Rangers Football Academy Limited’s commitment to excellence in sports development, this partnership is set to change the face of grassroots football in Nigeria in particular and Africa in general. Under the visionary leadership of its founder, Trevor Walters, Tharmm Equest has become a trusted name known for its dedication to quality, authenticity, and creativity. By recognising the immense talent within the Black community, the company is actively reshaping the narrative and challenging the status quo. Walters, also known for his dedication to sports development, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table with a focus on nurturing talent

EXPERIENCED: Ajayi Olumide Adedapo, left, and Trevor Walters are working together in order to develop young talented footballers in Nigeria and other African states

and promoting holistic development. He has a proven track record of helping young African athletes become successful professionals. By incorporating their triedand-tested methodologies, the partnership will foster a nurturing environment where young footballers can thrive and reach their full potential. Power Rangers Football Academy Limited has a strong

reputation for identifying and honing exceptional talent. Their commitment to developing wellrounded individuals through football aligns perfectly with Tharmm Equest’s vision. By leveraging the Academy’s extensive network and comprehensive training programs, the partnership aims to identify and nurture promising young footballers from all walks of life, regardless of socio-economic

backgrounds. Ajayi Olumide Adedapo, founder of Power Rangers Football Academy and lead partnership with Tharmm Equest, said: “This will provide an opportunity for both players and technical crew to showcase their skills and talents on a world stage.” Walters added: “We aim to make the Power Rangers Football Academy a household name, accessible to anyone

interested in football regardless of background, and to encourage young people to pursue their dreams. Expanding the game in Africa also meets our joint longterm aim of growing the game in that region.” The collaboration will prioritise the following key initiatives: enhanced training programs, grassroots development, community engagement and financial opportunities.

University of East London course opens doors for MacDevitt By Richard Prescott PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER, University of East London alumnus, and presenter on BBC One’s Football Focus, Liam MacDevitt has already enjoyed a wide and successful career. From playing professional football as far away as New Zealand to presenting on BBC One’s Football Focus, it’s safe to say he’s not afraid of leaving his comfort zone. Football is a common thread throughout Liam’s life to date. Speaking of the sport, he said: “Football was always my first love. Although I played county rugby union and performed at a good level in athletics, it was always football for me.” At just four years old, Liam played in his first team and progressed through to the professional ranks with Yeovil Town, Bristol City and in non-league with his current club, Bury AFC. It

was during his spell at Stoke City that he trained with his childhood hero, Michael Owen, a star of his beloved Liverpool. “We trained together and I was still very young so I’m not sure I could really take it in that I was actually training with Michael. I interviewed him for Football Focus a few months ago and he was excellent.” It was during Liam’s football career that he decided to go to the University of East London, where he balanced a football scholarship while studying for a BA (Hons) in Sports Journalism. “I’d visited UEL before and I loved it. The Docklands campus was near the water and it had a nice atmosphere. I came back to a sports fair and met Yassin Abidou (a football coach at UEL and now an events officer at East London Sport) and an ex-student called Dylan and I decided to join.” Liam describes the sports journalism course as “amazing”, falling in

PROACTIVE: Liam MacDevitt love with the camera and video side of sports journalism. “The flexibility of the course was amazing and it has provided me with a really good base for my career. The football scholarship was also excellent and it helped give me some structure, as I was training two to three times a week and the UEL football teams were winning cups and leagues.”

After UEL, Liam broadened his horizons even further and played football professionally in New Zealand for Southern United and then for Tasman United. While there, he also worked at Southern United, helping them with their video and social content. “I loved it there and it helped me again with my experience on the video journalism side of things for when I applied for a 12-month internship at the BBC.” Initially unsuccessful with his application, Liam changed his covering letter, contacted the recruiter and was accepted into the internship programme. It was clearly a very competitive environment but one within which Liam blossomed, and his preparation ahead of any interview for the Football Focus show is always very thorough. “I usually arrive an hour or two before the interview to make sure that I read through my notes and that I’m

ready to go. Some players are early, some are late and you have to be prepared for any outcome. Being a professional footballer has helped me with the interviews as there is some empathy there and I treat the players as if I’m chatting to my friend.” Liam’s future plans and aims are to stay working for Football Focus and to develop his own production company, which has just received its first commission for a documentary. Finally, what advice would Liam offer to any students at UEL before embarking on their own careers? “UEL is an amazing safe space, from which you can learn from your mistakes and the support there is really good. Try as many things as possible. “It gives you a really good base and it has a lot of success stories, which include a number from its football scholarship and journalism courses, so go out there and be as proactive possible.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 THE VOICE | 47

Sport TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY: Christal Clashing, Kevinia Francis and Samara Emmanuel hold their flairs aloft (photo: World’s Toughest Row)

Tough as they come Trio become first Black female team to row across the Pacific Ocean. By Rodney Hinds

HEN TEAM Antigua Island Girls reached the finish line of the World’s Toughest Row – Pacific in Kauai, Hawaii in June, theirs was a journey of more than 2,800 nautical miles, starting in Monterey Bay, California and 41 days, seven hours and five minutes at sea. The finish was testament to their mental and physical strength, willpower, determination, and ability to surmount adversity. In the process, the trio of Christal Clashing, Samara Emmanuel and Kevinia Francis became the first Black female team and the first Caribbean team to row across the Pacific Ocean. The iconic shot of the team standing on their boat, Dadli Gyal, holding their flares aloft in the shallow waters of the

bay, symbolizing their daredevil accomplishment, belied the rigours of the journey. The final 50 miles to the Kauai shore proved to be an epic battle with the elements, with the team in jeopardy of not finishing the race. Currents, multiple squalls, perennial headwinds and rain combined to push and hold the team north of Hanalei Bay when the entrance was south. With the addition of Elvira Bell-Bailey, they also hold the distinction of being the first Black team – male or female – and the first Caribbean team to row the Atlantic Ocean when they completed the Talisker Atlantic Whisky Atlantic Challenge on January 28, 2019 in 47 days, eight hours and 25 minutes. From the jump, debilitating seasickness knocked down Kevinia, the skipper and the physically strongest crew

“We called on everything within us, and we just rowed and rowed” member. It completely sidelined her for the first 72 hours, and it took several days afterwards before she was back to full capacity. Then, just as the team began gathering momentum, Christal, who is open with her Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) diagnosis, began having episodes that included serious hallucinations, leading to potentially rowending episodes. Reduced to two rowers, Kevinia and Samara, the veteran seafarer of

the bunch, became mainly concerned with their teammate’s wellbeing and the team’s overall safety. Kevinia and Samara pushed their bodies and their minds, alternating between two-up and solo shifts for quite some distance until Christal was better.The row went according to expectations thereafter. Then came the final 50 miles, which called for everything the team had when they thought they had passed the worst. Kevinia said: “We called on everything within us, and we just rowed and rowed for 14 hours straight. “Even when we couldn’t move south and didn’t know how we were going to beat the weather, we knew the conditions were not going to beat us.” Samara added: “We are grateful to God, to all the people who prayed for us, and all the positive vibes put out

into the universe on and throughout the entire row.” Christal focused on what it took to cross the Pacific. “Sometimes, sisterhood and unity can be buzzwords, but I want to say that out there in the most dangerous ocean, my sisters, my teammates, proved this again and again. Mother Nature really upped the ante on that last day, because she wanted to strip us down to our core and put our mettle to the test – not just for us, but for the people watching us, to prove that when you think you’ve reached your limit, dig deeper.” Team Antigua Island Girls used the row to raise funds to establish a home for girls in conflict with the law. Underage girls who transgress the laws are sent either to the lone penal facility or to group homes, exacerbating the problems.

48 | THE VOICE AUGUST 2023