ASKaND Sentinel March 2024 - Vol 3 #06

ASKaND’s Journey: A Year of Growth

Dear Members,

In a series of events that have consistently illuminated the importance of community, health, and heritage, ASKaND has pushed itself once again;, drawing people together in celebration of culture, health & well-being, and talent. Among the highlights was February's Health and Wellbeing Fair, an event that not only attracted an amazing turnout, but also showcased the strength of new partnerships and community collaboration we have worked so hard to develop.

The Health and Wellbeing Fair, detailed further within the pages of this edition, was not an isolated achievement but a part of the series of initiatives funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. The generous support we received has enabled ASKaND to weave a rich tapestry of events throughout 2023/24, including the vibrant 2023 St Kitts-Nevis Heritage Day, the introspective Healthy Relationships

In this issue

ASKaND’S RISING STARS

Fireside Chat, and the festive ASKaND Children’s Christmas Party, all a testament to our commitment to nurturing a sense of belonging and happiness in our community.

Yet, the journey of celebration and recognition does not pause there. In what promises to be a fitting crown to 12 months of achievements, ASKaND is preparing to host the 'Shine Like A Diamond’ event. This final activity under our National Lottery Community Fund sponsorship is dedicated to celebrating our community's young talent through music, song, dance, and creative arts.

The 'Shine Like A Diamond’ event is not just an occasion, but a declaration of ASKaND’s belief in the aspirations of our youth. It is an affirmation of our commitment to developing talent, encouraging creativity, and providing platforms for our young people to showcase their gifts. As we gather to celebrate our bright young stars, we not only look back on a year of impactful achievements, but also

forward to a future made brighter by their talents.

The event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of our young people. Join us as we conclude our year of funded activities with a resounding cheer for our youth, who continue to inspire us and lead the way forward.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund and to all our partners and participants who have made all these events not just possible, but meaningful. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a future that values health, heritage, and the development of our community.

Welcome to this edition of the ASKaND magazine, where we shine a light on the moments that have brought us together and the bright futures we want to continue to build for our community.

JacquiDaniels ASKaND Chair

BREAKING BARRIERS BUILDING WELLNESS

ASKaND Breaking Barriers & Building Wellness

In an inspiring display of community spirit and dedication to health and wellbeing, ASKaND, in partnership with Complete Wellness C.I.C. from Kent, put together an exceptional Health and Wellbeing Fair on 24 February, setting a new benchmark for community health promotion initiatives. The Fair was lead by Janelle Jack, ASKaND's Health and Wellbeing Officer, a Dental Practice Manager within the Royal Air Force, who has been instrumental in identifying and addressing the unique health challenges faced by minority ethnic communities.

With a focus on breaking down barriers and dispelling longstanding myths surrounding health in minority communities, the event offered a selection of services all designed to enlighten, engage, and educate participants. From BMI, glucose, and cholesterol checks to the provision of free blood pressure monitors to early-birds attendees. The event was notable not only for the comprehensive health checks being available on the day, but also for the holistic approach to wellbeing it championed. Attendees benefited from expert counselling, invaluable health advice, soothing massage therapies, essential dental guidance, and crucial mental health support courtesy of Mind UK.

A highlight of the day was the vibrant Zumba classes led by Simone Waldron, set against the backdrop of Soca and Latin tunes; along with “We Talk” men’s discussion group facilitated by Matthias Edinborough. This session provided a much-needed platform for male expression and emotional support, drawing an incredibly diverse audience, and highlighting the universal importance of mental and physical health.

Equally engaging was the lecture delivered by Tony Kelly, a retired

teacher, and Diabetes UK Champion. Tony shared his personal journey, and the impact of diabetes has on the minority ethnic community. His story added a deeply personal touch to the health narrative, which resonated with many attendees.

In addition to the engaging sessions and lectures, the fair also offered some delightful perks such as complimentary breakfast oats and the fan-favourite ‘smoothie bike’, allowing participants to blend their own smoothies offering a blend of fun, fitness, and nutrition.

The day ended on a high note, with ASKaND achieving its ambitious goals for their Health and Wellbeing Fair, thanks in no small part to the collective effort of ‘Complete Wellness’, a CIC based in Kent, Mind UK, the indefatigable Tony Kelly, Simone, Matthias, and the dedicated volunteers from ASKaND. Their contributions were pivotal in the fair’s outstanding success. In a statement, Janelle Jack shared, "We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners and volunteers. Your contributions were essential to the success of our event. It is our hope to continue serving everyone in the local community, regardless of creed or race."

The Health and Wellbeing Fair was not just an event; it was homage to ASKaND's commitment to cultivating a healthier, more informed community. Janelle Jack and the ASKaND team have set a formidable precedent for future health initiatives, proving once more that together, we can overcome barriers and promote a culture of wellness and inclusivity.

A Message From Tony Kelly

As a Diabetes Ambassador and Activist for nearly 12 years this June and working in that role for the NHS Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care System as a volunteer I was invited to display a diabetes stand with diabetes literature and also speak for an hour at the Association of St. Kitts and Nevis Descendants’ Health and Wellbeing fair on Saturday 24th February at Hall Green United Community Church. It was an incredible day and considering it was their first such event they delivered every aspect with aplomb.

The event was promoted as ‘a free community event designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, prevent and manage issues and connect you to resources.’

Considering I attend many of these health-related events, locally, nationally and internationally it was one of the best health fairs in terms of what was on offer for the whole day. When I saw the promotion flyer and spoke to one of the organisers, Janelle, I mentioned how impressive it looked and that being so, I sent it to many of my contacts. Over a dozen of the people who

received it attended and thanked me for making them aware of the event. Promotion and publicity are vital and I felt it was my duty to disseminate the flyer and rally the community to support as much as possible and they certainly did.

The organisers, volunteers and other exhibitors including some all the way from two Seventh Day Adventist churches in Kent (Complete Wellness), were all focused, and the large turnout for health checks was excellent. This just shows what we can accomplish, as a community in the diaspora if we come together and work hard in achieving our goals. Every aspect of this health fair was well delivered, and I think a bigger venue will be needed for next year’s planned event as the venue was literally buzzing with excitement.

It is not for me to comment on the delivery of my diabetes awareness session so that will be for others to feedback but the participants who attended it were very responsive and engaging.

Heartiest congratulations to all who made this such a successful day and to use my well-known mantra ‘Our health is our wealth.’

Tony Kelly

Diabetes Ambassador/Activist (Volunteer) – NHS Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care System. Contact: tonykellydiabetes@hotmail.com

Complete Wellness C.I.C.

Complete Wellness C.I.C. were one of our key partners in the delivery of our Health & Wellbeing Fair. They are committed to enhancing whole-person health in communities across England. Rooted in Seventh-day Adventist values (www.adventist.org), they aim to empower individuals through education and support across all dimensions of wellnessphysical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, financial, occupational, intellectual, and environmental. Their

mission is to nurture balanced, fulfilling lives, focusing on those at greater health risk.

The Vision

Envisioning a future where every individual in our communities lives a balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life, Complete Wellness C.I.C. strives to be a beacon of holistic well-being. They aspire to transform lives by integrating physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, financial, occupational, intellectual, and environmental wellness into everyday living. Their vision is grounded in the principles of the Seventhday Adventist Church (www.adventist.org), guiding them to create a world where health and wellness are accessible to all, particularly those facing the greatest challenges, and where every person recognises their inherent value and potential for a greater purpose.

“Jumbie Corner”

Man from Mount Lily

It must be a treasured possession, pride of place on the mantelpiece; as it would be, if it was in your home or mine; a cherished item, like a domestic talisman. I'm talking of the cricket ball that was given to Arthur France, by Vivien Richards.

What a long and illustrious innings Arthur France has had. The word “founder” is synonymous with him. Founder of community spaces and cultural events. How many passed through the youth club and Saturday School? How many projects have used the Chapeltown Community Centre or West Indian Centre? Even though he is ageing, in 2017, he notched up another half century: five decades of chairing Carnival. And you and I both know that Leeds Carnival, was the first outdoor carnival in Europe.

I heard him talking of Ashanti, And the sweetness of community

His innings have become a lesson in tenacity. He's taken bouncers to the head, as well as the body: he's felt the bruises. But nothing could deter him. Rain could never stop play, nor could racism. He faced the fast balls of disparity, as well as the spinners of ignorance. So that's why it is only his name, that the grass and trees in Potternewton Park mention, during their August conversations. And if no road or library is ever named after him, they'll still chant his name in Harehills and dance on his birthday in Chapeltown. Raise their voices for a man born in Mount Lily, Nevis, in 1935, who came to Leeds, England in 1957. Apt that he came that year, talker of the Ashanti, as that was the year that Ghana got its independence, first country in sub-Saharan Africa to do so.

When we remember great community activists, such as Claudia Jones and Sam King, let us stand and salute Arthur France also; for the wonderful innings he has given us; worthy recipient, of that gift from Vivien Richards.

I heard him talking of Ashanti, And the oneness necessity.

GET ON OUR SOCIALS!

Don’t forget to access our Linktree links on our website. Peter, our Communications Officer, is always keen to hear your suggestions, so please let him know your thoughts on how we can improve our contents. Also, if you have a website you would like us to add, just let Peter know. But in the meantime, please don’t forget our Socials which are having more and more people wanting to connect to us every week. So please find us at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/askandbrum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askandbrum/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/askandbrum

Find us at: www.askand.org

PeterNwabuokei ASKaND Communications Officer

Upcoming Members Meetings

ASKaND Members meetings will be held at the BCA, Jenkins Street, Birmingham, B10 0PQ at 1900hrs. However, please always check our location. We are always working to try and offer our members different experiences; and that might mean we change our venue! But don’t worry; we will always give you plenty of notice of any changes!

Friday 5th April

Friday 3rd May

Friday 7th June

Friday 5th July

Friday 2nd August

Friday 6th September

Friday 4th October

Friday 1st November

Friday 6th December

ASKaND Easter Holiday Playscheme

Cree Amory-Reid

ASKaND’s Rising Stars

In a tribute to perseverance, ambition, and sheer talent, Cree Amory-Reid has become a symbol of pride for the St Kitts -Nevis community, here in Birmingham. and an inspiring icon for ambitious young individuals everywhere. The journey towards his recent achievement, a First Class BA (Hons) in Music Industry

Nyhkiesha St. Juste

In the bustling city of Birmingham, an ambitious, young woman has been making waves in both her academic career and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Nyhkiesha St. Juste recently achieved her BA (Hons) degree, graduating from University College Birmingham, and is now carving out a path for herself as a trainee Nurse at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Her story is not just one of individual

Practice from the Academy for Contemporary Music, validated by Middlesex University, is not just a narrative of academic excellence, but of dedication, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions.

Cree Amory-Reid is a remarkable young man. His story is not just about academic success; it is about the ability to balance an astonishing diverse range of commitments, all while keeping his eyes fixed firmly on his goals. From making significant strides in the music industry by recording and releasing his first album, empowering local youth by producing music with “Urban Heard”; to co-managing “No Laws Studio” and AmoryR Management. Cree has demonstrated a remarkable ability to juggle professional responsibilities with academic rigour.

But Cree's commitments extend beyond the areas of education and entrepreneurship. His contributions to the music scene, especially his electrifying performances in Birmingham and London, have won him accolades as an inventive and creative new artiste, and his involvement with PAC as a researcher signifies his inclination towards making a meaningful social difference.

Moreover, Cree's dedication to building

success but a source of pride within the St. Kitts-Nevis community.

Nyhkiesha's journey to earning her Aesthetic Practitioner degree is evidence of her perseverance and dedication to making a difference in the world. Her decision to pursue a career in nursing reflects her deep-rooted ambition to help and care for others, a quality that has not gone unnoticed by those around her. In amongst her rigorous academic commitments, Nyhkiesha has also managed to channel her creativity into creating and designing candles and wax melts.

Last year, Nyhkiesha took a leap of faith and set up a stall at ASKaND's Heritage Day at the Hub in Perry Barr, Birmingham. It was here that her entrepreneurial spirit truly shone as she introduced her very own creation, "Bagajuice." This innovative product, encapsulating tropical fruit flavours in a frozen pouch, capturing the attention of many attendees at the event. Despite having a few bags left, Nyhkiesha's resourcefulness and determination led her to sell them to her family, who enthusiastically supported her budding business venture.

his music catalogue, learning to drive, and yet finding time for family and friends, illustrates him taking a balanced approach to life. His work ethic, a blend of passion and perseverance, proves that with the right attitude, achieving one's dreams is indeed possible.

The St Kitts-Nevis community, with immense pride, celebrates Cree's achievements as not just a personal victory but as a communal triumph. He is not just a recipient of a First Class BA (Hons) degree; he is a symbol of what can be accomplished when talent meets tenacity. His journey shines a light on a path for those who dare to dream big and work tirelessly towards making those dreams a reality. His success story resonates deeply within the community, serving as a powerful reminder of where hard work and dedication can lead.

We, the St Kitts-Nevis community, is very proud of Cree Amory-Reid and his achievements. He is a talented musician and producer, and he has also making a significant contribution to the local community. We look on with immense pride and anticipation, eager to witness the further accomplishments this extraordinary individual is destined to achieve. We are confident that he will continue to achieve great things in the future.

As Nyhkiesha gears up for another appearance at the upcoming Heritage Day event, anticipation is high for her new and exciting "Bagajuice" flavours. Her enthusiasm and drive to expand her business reflect not only her entrepreneurial flair but also her strong sense of community and family support. Nyhkiesha's mother, Natasha, and her extended family, are beaming with pride at her accomplishments and we are all eager to see her continue to shine bright in her future activities.

Nyhkiesha St. Juste's story is an example of determination, passion, and the unwavering support of a tight-knit community. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, one thing is clear; she is a rising star who is destined to make a positive impact not just in her community but everywhere she goes. The St. Kitts-Nevis community stands tall with pride, in celebration of Nyhkiesha's achievements and looks forward to witnessing her continued success and growth.

Limited Tickets for Talent Showcase

Tickets for ASKaND’s talent showcase “Shine Like A Diamond” are going FAST! So, if you do not have your ticket yet, go to Eventbrite:

(https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/association-of-st-kitts-nevis-descendants-55967770033) and get yours now! We have a great line-up for the evening and we cannot wait to showcase the talent we have in our community. So please do come along and support, and we look forward to seeing you on 23 March 2024, at the H Suite, in Birmingham.