Gallery Jersey 207: April/May 2026

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THE EXPRESSION EDITION

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CONTR I B U TO R S

The rundown.

#207 CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Words and pictures this issue courtesy of...

PHOTOGRAPHY/ILLUSTRATION

TOBY BALDERSON

Our resident tech writer explores using Whispr Flow to build an app from scratch - midway up a ski lift.

Pg. 120

DANNY EVANS

Danny shoots extensively across this issue, gracing its pages with his portrait photography.

Pg. 56

Oliver Doran Danny Evans Carl Gallie Kasia Guzak Matt Jarvis Becky Le Brun Glen Perotte Matt Sharp Ryan Thomas Ascent Creative

CAN YOU CREATE?

contribute@gallery.je GLEN PEROTTE

Glen explores microphotography, capturing intricate natural details often invisible to the naked eye. Pg. 18

LAURA MOREL

Laura assembled the Disrupt HR gang for a Traitors-themed photoshoot.

Pg. 92

Sure, you might share photos of your food or have a portfolio on Behance, but why not get a little joy from seeing something in print!

We’re always looking for contributions from people who are passionate about subject matters close to their hearts. Become a contributor and get paid for your content.

FEATURE

DAISY TAYLOR

speaks to Dandy’s Dexter Kelly on emerging into the island’s music scene. Pg. 48

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Maggie Bain Toby Balderson Flo Balderson Phoebe Collins Laura Morel Emma Pallent Nyah Schiessl Daisy Taylor Ryan Thomas

RYAN THOMAS

Ryan’s ability to convey the collective consciousness of Jersey with his wry illustations is a pleasure to include in our pages. Pg. 121

WE PROFILE ISLANDERS

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If you are an artist with work to exhibit, an entertainment organiser with an event coming up, a business with some exciting news or a new product to feature, get in touch. We’re keen to feature anything captivating that will be of interest to the good people of Jersey who flick through a Gallery each edition.

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EDITO

# 2 0 7 A P R /M AY 2026

THE EXPRESSION EDITION

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BLACK AND WHITE AND READ ALL OVER. 200TH EDITION. BLACK AND WHITE AND READ ALL OVER. 200TH EDITION. BLACK AND WHITE AND

/ LIFE & STYLE IN JERSEY

EDITOR EMMA PALLENT emma@factory.je ADVERTISING & SALES CERI BAKER ceri@factory.je FLO BALDERSON flo@factory.je PUBLISHER BEN DAVIES ben@factory.je

EDITO

This is my first time writing this, which probably explains why I’ve left it until the final hour. I’m in the passenger seat of Gallery’s delivery van, typing in the dark after two months of procrastination. I briefly considered flying under the radar and borrowing Ben’s format, starting with an obscure pop culture reference and baking in some mild irreverence where possible, hoping it passed unnoticed. But it felt like a strange way to approach an issue themed around “expression”.

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nd why hide? There’s a lot to be proud of in this issue. It’s a common complaint that not much interesting happens in Jersey, and when I moved back, I was under the same impression. But working in a job like this has a way of disproving that fairly quickly. You end up meeting people doing all sorts of strange and interesting things, taking portraits in the Amazon, running marathon after marathon in a giant shoe, or, in one case, a lingerie model planning to introduce us to her giant African snail, Gazza. We didn’t quite make it to that one. He went into sudden hibernation ahead of the shoot, but we’re holding out hope for a summer appearance.

This issue brings some of that range to the surface. There’s a six-page feature on local photographer Glen Perotte’s recent project capturing microphotography of bees for Jersey Honey, which also happens to be our cover. It makes visible each hexagonal facet of the eye and each grain of pollen (page 18). Alongside that, there’s an entire supplement dedicated to the performing arts in Jersey, along with an ode to the upcoming Jersey Blues Festival in the Royal Square, which, remarkably, is free to attend (page 44). On the topic of using voices for change, we hear from Issa Amro, named in TIME100 Next, on how making a difference can be folded into everyday life (page 24). There are also fresh thoughts and recipes from Korea from our in-house food fanatic Flo (page 114).

DISTRIBUTION distro@factory.je

On the digital side of “expression”, we’ve got words from our tech writer Toby on developments in audio interpretation by machines. Most of us are familiar with shouting at Alexa as it misunderstands something simple, with conviction, or Siri suggesting you try again later. ‘Killing the Keyboard’ was Toby’s attempt to take that one step further, building an app from scratch using nothing but dictation on a ski lift.

You can find that on page 120.

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Realising how far AI has come in just the last few months can, at times, feel slightly unsettling. It doesn’t shock me to hear someone mention they have a whole “team” of AI agents working together in a strange internal structure made up entirely of code.

Quite what that means for employment going forward is still up in the air.

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01534 811100 hi@factory.je

On that note, and thinking about work more generally, I spoke to Sonia from Rayner’s Launderette to understand what it is that makes us enjoy what we do (page 56).

Somewhere between the dry cleaning and the day-to-day running of the place, it became clear that managing a launderette and editing a magazine have more in common than you might expect. When Jules, Ben’s new AI agent, becomes sentient and starts running the place, you’ll know where to find me.

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Gallery recycles all its storage and packing materials, boxes and any old magazines that are returned. We don’t get that many fortunately. We love to know our readers hang on to previous copies but when you move or find that they’re taking up too much space, drop them down to your nearest recycling bin. If you want to find out more about recycling, call 01534 448586. We put this in a green font. It’s not made out of leaves, honest.

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CONTEN TS

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Anatomy of the Unseen

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Issa Amro

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The Expression Supplement

44

Jersey Blues Festival

48

Dandy

50

Huzzah!

54

No Business Like It...

56

Pressing Issues

60

Tiny Cat, Total Authority

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The Business Blueprint

90

Mourant x Blue Marine Foundation

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Disruptors

97

Gradu8

108

On the Up

114

Relative Values

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CON T EN TS

CONTENTS SECTIONS News in Numbers

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Events

14

Culture

18

Expression

28

Music

44

Message Maggie

64

Fashion

65

Beauty & Wellbeing

66

Home & Interiors

69

The Business Blueprint

77

Community

88

Gradu8

97

Active

108

Appetite

114

Tech

120

Paparazzi

122

Matrix

128

FEATURES Anatomy of the Unseen 18 A six-page feature on local photographer Glen Perotte’s recent project capturing microphotography of bees for Jersey Honey, which also happens to be our cover. It makes visible each hexagonal facet of the eye and each grain of pollen.

Whoever Wins the Art 24 On the subject of using voices for change, we hear from Issa Amro, named in TIME100 Next, on how making a difference can be folded into everyday life.

Expression Supplement 29 Our newest supplement takes a deeper look into the world of the performing arts in Jersey.

Pressing Issues 56 We speak to Sonia from Rayner’s Launderette to understand what it is that makes us enjoy what we do.

Tiny Cat, Total Authority 61 Fawn over the tiny kitten taking total control of Kyra Crous’ life.

A Pure Passion 74 Jersey Water on the quality of our island’s water, shedding light on PFAS. Gradu8 97 We hear from a selection of newly qualified professionals across the island’s corporate sectors.

Chimaek (치맥) 114 Fresh thoughts and recipes from Korea from our in-house food fanatic, Flo.

For the latest news about exhibitions, events & opportunities, head to arthousejersey.je Call in to see our latest exhibition at Capital House, 8 Church St, St Helier

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Scan for more information

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NUMBERS

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cars were stolen in the first two months of 2026, compared with ten during the same period last year. Police said most had been left insecure with keys inside or nearby. A public awareness campaign is expected. Its message is likely to be: lock your car.

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months in prison was the sentence handed to a 23-year-old who used forged £20 notes across seven offences in ten days, purchasing tuna, milk, cans of Stella and drinks at a wine bar. His own defence advocate told the Royal Court his client described himself as a “numpty”. The forgery was eventually detected by a member of staff at Morrisons, during an attempt to purchase milk.

references to Guernsey appeared in the Epstein files, compared with 70 to the Channel Islands as a whole and one to the States of Jersey. Many initial results for Jersey referred instead to New Jersey. Guernsey’s financial regulator was named 76 times.

Jersey’s appeared ten. Guernsey has not indicated whether this is a distinction it wished to achieve.

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deepfake videos depicting teachers at Grainville School in degrading and sexualised scenarios were uploaded to a fake TikTok account using the school’s name and branding, attracting close to 20,000 views in a matter of days.

120 hours of community service was handed to Deputy Philip Ozouf after he was convicted of immigration offences relating to five Rwandan nationals he employed at his launderette and home. His defence said his political career “is in tatters.”

The court said he had “let down the people of Jersey.” One of the workers described the employment as “enjoyable.” The court did not treat this as especially mitigating. He did not resign.

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knives were involved in doorbell footage that prompted a police investigation after a child was filmed appearing to carry one.

States of Jersey Police confirmed the item was a plastic toy. They did not specify how long the investigation took.

1 parishioner in St Peter said she was prepared to go to prison rather than pay a £245.47 water bill in protest at PFAS contamination.

Jersey Water’s lawyers stated the supply met the legal definition of “wholesome” and that payment was still required. She remained unconvinced. Proceedings may follow in the Petty Debts Court.

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NUMBERS

Play now. Pay later.

Get the latest Mac and pay over 24 months interest free at iQ. (Subject to status)

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CHANNEL ISLANDS CONTEMPORARY ART SHOW 2026: PRIVATE VIEW Friday 20th March

ArtHouse Jersey @ Capital House The second edition of The Channel Islands Contemporary Art Show opened with a lively

evening at the gallery, bringing together artists and guests from across Jersey, Guernsey, Brittany and the UK. Visitors moved between sculpture, painting, photography and digital works, with drinks in hand as conversations flowed. The atmosphere was distinctly communal, reflecting the spirit of the exhibition itself. A highlight of the evening was a speech by Kirsten Morel, who spoke about the importance of fostering

connections between neighbouring regions, noting the inclusion of artists from Brittany and Guernsey as a meaningful extension of the islands’ cultural dialogue. He also emphasised his commitment to supporting the arts through sustained funding, underlining its value within the island’s future. The event set the tone for an exhibition rooted in collaboration and a shared creative landscape.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR EVENT COVERED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON PAPARAZZI@FACTORY.JE

PREVIEW EVENING OF WITHIN THIS WORLD XIV BY CAROL ANN SUTHERLAND

Thursday 19th March

CCA Galleries International

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CCA Galleries International opened its doors to Within This World XIV, the first solo exhibition at the gallery by Carol Ann Sutherland, welcoming guests into a surreal, narrative-led body of work spanning decades.

The evening unfolded between horses, angels, boats and chessboards, the motifs that form the artist’s allegorical world. Alongside newly

created works, guests engaged with a small retrospective of pieces dating back to 1972, as well as a striking stone relief, offering insight into the breadth of Sutherland’s practice. The atmosphere was reflective, as viewers pieced together the connections between works, drawn into a whimsical, otherworldly narrative.

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EV EN TS

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FREEDA GALA EVENING

Saturday 7th February The Royal Yacht

Freeda (Free from Domestic Abuse) held their annual gala evening to raise awareness and much-needed funds for their mission. The evening was kindly sponsored by KPMG, with

entertainment provided by Elsie & the Emeralds and Ruby Rouger. Survivor and artist Kelly Eastwood spoke about her journey with Freeda, and guests were able to purchase her artwork on the night, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. The artistic theme continued throughout the evening, with Kiera Melville offering portraits of guests in exchange for donations to Freeda.

This event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with supporters both old and new, while raising funds to continue providing 24hour support to those most in need. Freeda’s mission is to free our island from domestic abuse through awareness and education, which they are only able to do with the support of the community.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR EVENT COVERED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON PAPARAZZI@FACTORY.JE

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST

Friday 6th March The Royal Yacht

Freeda hosted their much‑anticipated annual breakfast event in celebration of International

Women’s Day. The morning was generously sponsored by CSC, ensuring that all funds raised went directly to supporting Freeda’s vital services for women and children affected by domestic abuse. Freeda’s Patron, Dr Kyd, attended and delivered a powerful address, joined

by Freeda CEO Kate Wright and Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham, who provided an update on

the Government’s progress in implementing the VAWG recommendations. Guest speakers included poet Caitlin O’Ryan, who shared her poignant work and reflections on the realities facing women and girls today, and Georgia Gabriel‑Hooper, an inspiring young woman who bravely told her raw story of tragedy and survival in the hope of helping others.

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HOUSE OF CHAMPIONS PREVIEW EVENING

Thursday 12th February, 3 St Andrew’s Studios

Photos: Ollie Jones Photography

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House of Champions opened its doors in St Helier, welcoming over 40 local professionals, creatives and entrepreneurs for a first look at Jersey’s newest collaborative workspace.

Founded by Brand Champions CEO Fiona Wylie, the three-storey venue blends traditional architecture with a bright, modern interior designed by North 49. Guests enjoyed food from Christopher’s restaurant and live entertainment.

Opening this spring, the space will offer desks, meeting rooms and a podcast studio, alongside a curated events programme and a range of flexible memberships. House of Champions has been designed as an environment built for creativity and collaboration, where the culture of the club is just as powerful as the physical space itself.

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Anatomy of the

Unseen Words: Emma Pallent

Under extreme magnification, a bee’s eye resembles the honeycomb structure that defines the landscape of its hive. Its surface fractures into a hexagonal lattice formed by thousands of tiny lenses, sometimes more than 5000 in a single eye, each capturing a fragment of the world before the bee’s brain assembles them into a single composite view. From a human perspective, the structure is deeply strange.

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hat the world actually looks like remains a matter of scientific debate. Bees can perceive shorter wavelengths beyond human vision such as ultraviolet light, due to the presence of specific photoreceptors in their eyes. This evolved ability reveals hidden ‘nectar guides’ on flowers, which act like glowing runway lights to locate food efficiently, as well as aid in navigation. In this spectrum, pollen glows like flecks of gold against an environment washed in blues and purples invisible to us.

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Photography: Glen Perotte

The colours that appear in the photographs across these pages hint at that hidden dimension. The saturated blues, greens, purples and luminous yellows are not intended as strict scientific reconstructions, but rather a hint at what a bee’s world might look like. Glen Perotte, the local photographer behind the image on this issue’s cover, chose to treat the bee’s world interpretively. His aim was to produce a body of work in what he calls a “false colour”, to make a gesture towards a perceived reality we cannot see.

Perotte has spent years exploring extreme macro photography, collaborating with Hettich Jewellers for their ‘Secret Worlds’ project back in 2022. The purpose of the project was to photograph the intricate and hidden inner beauty of precious gemstones, revealing whole landscapes of micro-crystals that can’t be seen by the naked eye. Out of this fascination to look deeply into things that remain largely unnoticed, he was drawn to the idea of a project featuring high-resolution images revealing the intricate anatomical details of everyday critters that most would not give a second glance.

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Drawn by a similar curiosity, Perotte turned towards bees as a subject for his most recent project. “If you really look at them, they’re the most amazing animals,” he explained.

He turned to Jersey Honey as a collaborator on the project, gaining access to working hives and the knowledge of local beekeepers. Having known Perotte for a number of years and understanding the calibre of his work, Shaun Gell, the founder and owner of Jersey Honey, eagerly pursued the project. “I’ve seen the way Glen is so particular about his work,” he said, “so when he approached me and asked about taking photographs of the bees, I knew what he produced was going to be fantastic, and it would be a win for everybody involved.”

Rather than photographing the insect in the traditional style of natural history, Perotte focused on the fragments of the body itself, to “focus on the incredible parts of a bee’s anatomy.” The abstract forms feature an eye that fills the frame in one photo, like a faceted landscape, or a

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leg covered in pollen dust becomes a spiny architectural structure, resembling branches holding glowing gold blossoms. On this issue’s cover, if it weren’t for the single giveaway antenna, the close-up could easily be mistaken for an extraterrestrial terrain rather than the anatomy of an insect.

The body of work sits somewhere between documentation and abstraction, an intersection where art meets anatomy.

Whilst the forms remain recognisably biological, they’re so strange that the viewer double-takes, unsure for a moment what they are actually looking at. Extreme macro photography has long been used in scientific imaging, revealing structures in insects, minerals and plant cells that are invisible to the naked eye. However, in Perotte’s work, the technique moves away from strict documentation towards interpretative expression. It’s taxonomy with a fresh twist.

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“Only a sliver of the image will be in focus at this range,” Perotte explained, and to overcome this limitation, he leant on his previous expertise in focus stacking. Instead of capturing a single image, the camera records hundreds of photographs at slightly different focal depths.

Birth of the Queen: A queen bee that failed to emerge. Worker bees select female larvae under three days old and feed them large amounts of royal jelly, altering their development to produce a queen.

The logistics behind the photographs were as meticulous as the insects proved to be. At this level of magnification, cameras encounter the limits of optics, and the plane of focus becomes increasingly narrow. “Only a sliver of the image will be in focus at this range,” Perotte explained, and to overcome this limitation, he leant on his previous expertise in focus stacking. Instead of capturing a single image, the camera records hundreds of photographs at slightly different focal depths. These layers are then digitally combined to produce one fully sharp image.

Knowing the unique challenges that accompany this kind of work from his previous project with Hettich, Perotte mounted his camera onto a microscopic objective lens normally used in laboratory work, capable of magnifying anatomical details between ten and twenty times. He then held his breath whilst shooting three to four hundred frames with different focal points, which would be stitched together in the editing process to produce one final image.

Even the smallest of disturbances, such as a lorry driving

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past the building, footsteps across the floor or someone opening a door downstairs create small vibrations which entirely ruin the attempt. “It’s a painstaking process,” Perotte admitted, recalling pressing the capture button with a ninety-minute YouTube video already set up, which he’d watch whilst trying not to make the slightest movement. “But once you get through the challenges, the end result is pretty incredible.”

Whilst he is well established on the island as a commercial photographer, Perotte’s personal projects are driven by an insatiable curiosity. Whether it’s venturing to the top of Mount Kenya to shoot high-altitude flora, exploring the inner landscapes of gemstones or shooting one hundred ultra high-resolution portraits of individuals to reflect the collective consciousness of our island during the pandemic, they allow him an opportunity to immerse himself in a subject beyond the constraints of commercial photography.

“I love learning,” he explained, “and these personal projects are always such a time of discovery for me.”

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It’s a sentiment echoed by Gell, who found himself rediscovering the complexity of the species through fresh eyes, as Perotte asked more and more questions about the intricacies of the insects. “We found out just how much we knew when Glen came down to speak to us,” Gell recalled.

“Usually, you talk amongst yourself and collect knowledge, but it isn’t until you have a newcomer on the scene asking you why everything happens, and drawing connections between how similar the species are to humans and our communities, that you remember how much knowledge you’ve collected over the years.” He spoke about the sense of fascination that never quite fades either, despite years working in the industry. Even the life cycle of a bee, and understanding that the honeybees we see foraging for nectar are in their last two weeks of life, is captivating.

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Despite the anatomical nature of the project, and his curiosity about the species, Perotte holds that he never meant the photos to act as lessons in entomology. “I’m not interested in being a beekeeper,” he explained. “I just really enjoy the journey and experience of photographing the anatomy of bees.” Seen at this magnification, the bees resemble something foreign, architectural landscapes of lenses, pollen and intricate hairs. Bringing these bees under a lens reveals just how much of the natural world exists on a hidden scale, for those willing to root it out.

If we step back from the magnification, the specimens return to their usual place in our worldview, fading into the background noise as they drift unnoticed between flowers.

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Photography: Danny Evans

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Words: Emma Pallent

Photography: Glen Perotte

The rain had started outside by the time Issa Amro settled onto the stool in Glen Perotte’s studio. Behind him was a roll of light cyan-blue backing paper, in front were lamps and stands.

Soft clicking and recalibrating underscored the scene as we waited for the final portrait to emerge from a sequence of stills. He wore a checked blazer in washed brown-grey tones, dark trousers, black trainers, and, most strikingly, a keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian scarf, which he remarked earlier was the first time he had been photographed wearing. He sat very still.

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mro was not a sitter who arrived in the studio ready to put on a front. Between test shots, he looked out of the window or down at the floor, moving his thumbs absently, nodding now and then at something said across the room. When he positioned himself for the photograph, nothing about his expression altered dramatically when the camera lens settled on him. Both in front of or in the absence of a camera, his dual character of uncompromising firmness and a softer kindness was unmistakably there.

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Amro, a human-rights activist from Hebron and founder of the grassroots group Youth Against Settlements, has spent years advocating non-violent civic resistance. In 2024, he and the organisation were awarded the Right Livelihood Award, and in 2025 he was named to TIME100 Next, TIME’s annual list recognising rising global figures shaping the future. He also appeared in Louis Theroux’s 2025 BBC documentary The Settlers, which brought his work, and the pressures surrounding it, to a wider audience.

The evening before the shoot, Amro had spoken in Jersey about non-violence, daily action and the role ordinary people can play in resisting dehumanisation. Asked what he most wanted audiences to take away, he put it plainly. “I want the people to understand that without concrete action to end the occupation and apartheid, they will not change.

And I want the people to know that they can make a change, it’s not impossible, but they have to work very hard to make it happen.”

The insistence on action ran through everything he said.

Amro is not only an activist, but an engineer, and when he spoke about using his own skills his whole expression seemed to brighten. The conversation moved from politics in the broadest sense to practice in the most local one, beginning with what your hands already know. “I have a license as an engineer,” he explained, “so I decided to use my engineering skills to help Palestinian families get renewable energy, to get electricity.” “As a journalist,” he continued, “or as a photographer,” he said, with a gesture towards Perotte, “you can do a lot. Levelling up the victims and bringing down the oppressors. It’s something you like to do and can be part of your daily work. If you want to make a change, this is how you do it.”

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Perotte, a Jersey photographer known for portraiture, had been drawn to the project for reasons both artistic and moral. He had heard about Amro through The Jersey Palestine Solidarity Campaign, who brought him to the island, and was struck by the fact that Amro’s work centres on peace. “What really inspired me is the fact that he is a passive resistance human rights activist,” he recalled, explaining the connection he felt to figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. For Perotte, the challenge was capturing the perfect portrait, making sure that what he created prioritised truth, not spectacle.

“I felt it was really important to capture the state of his being at this present time,” he said. A part of that was capturing his sensitivity as well as his passive resistance stance, but another part was about capturing the cost of resolve. When asked what role he sees photography playing in helping people understand lives far from their own, he pointed towards the idea that people are given a direct avenue into another’s experience when they view things visually. “That’s where photography and film has its role in helping humanity to move forward in a peaceful, harmonic way,” he said.

Amro, meanwhile, returned again and again to the idea Before the sitting, he had imagined a more technical setthat people do not need to wait to become someone up. After hearing Amro speak, he changed his mind. “It else before they act. They can begin where they are, really hit me that I was trying to overthink it,” he noted. with what they already have. Engineers can build.

“But this has to be very natural, you know?... I wanted to Journalists can write. Photographers can portray. Cafe make it very, very direct. Let him talk. It’s his narrative.” owners can choose what they That restraint shaped the room stock. Teachers can teach and the project that unfolded. differently. His point clearly There were multiple rounds By the end of the sitting, one remark drove people away from the of photographs, seated, idea of performance, and standing, without backdrop, lingered above all the others, partly towards that of utility. all with the keffiyeh. Perotte because it seemed to explain why a adjusted the lights, stepped portrait like this matters at all. I was By the end of the sitting, one in, stepped back, and remark lingered above all watched. Taking frame after curious as to why Amro took part in others, partly because frame until he felt he had projects that, at a distance, can appear the it seemed to explain why a something that held Amro’s presence, where sensitivity almost like niceties against the backdrop portrait like this matters at all. I was curious as to why mingled with resistance. It of what he’s experienced at home. took part in projects feels literary to say, but you “Whoever wins the art wins the war,” Amro that, at a distance, can could quite literally see it in appear almost like niceties his eyes. against the backdrop of what he’s experienced at home. “Whoever wins the art Amro did not project hardness so much as steadiness. wins the war,” Amro had replied. In another context When he spoke, he was firm, but not theatrical; grounded, it would sound like rhetoric, but in this setting it felt but not cold. He could shift, in the span of a minute, from grounded.Art, in this circumstance, was not a way to discussing systems of surveillance and international escape reality, but a way that reality is carried from one complacency to joking warmly about age, health and diet. person to another, until indifference becomes harder Whatever else the portrait may show, it was clear that to maintain. A photograph cannot itself alter history, Perotte was keen to capture that duality too. Most portrait neither can an article, but both can move something and photographers know the old cliché that the camera never make comfort feel less complete. Both can ask, softly but lies barely stands up to scrutiny. In fact, a camera can with resolve, what exactly we plan to do with the work lie quite easily. It can flatter, simplify and aestheticise, that is ours to make. turning a person into a symbol masquerading as honesty.

What Perotte understood from a lifetime in the craft is that portraiture can also refuse that temptation, to serve as a witness rather than a decorator.

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Reframing Dementia ‘Reframing Dementia’ is a photographic exhibition designed to challenge preconceptions. Featuring real people living with dementia, it captures strength, diversity, joy, skills, love, support, and optimism among its subjects. It celebrates them as real people, not solely defined by their diagnosis.

The Channel Islands Contemporary Art Show The second edition of The Channel Islands Contemporary Art Show returns with an exciting gathering of seventeen artists from the Channel Islands, Brittany, and the UK. Bringing together bold sculpture, richly layered painting, photography, and compelling digital art, the exhibition offers fresh and thought-provoking perspectives on Island life, community, and connection. Each artist draws on personal experience and place, responding to the unique landscapes and cultural histories of the Channel Islands while opening up new ways of seeing, feeling, and imagining their future.

This dynamic showcase celebrates creativity across borders and invites audiences to engage with the vibrant artistic voices shaping the region today.

Participating artists include Charlie Buchanan, Ruby Butler, Hayley Gibault, Vincent Girard, Victor Guerin, Helen Glencross, Gabrielle Herveet, Louise London, Malgorzata Krzysztofik, Vincent Malassis, Charlie McFarley, Toby Rainbird, Nicole Sheppard, Bridget Spinney, India Sylvester, Iwan Warnet.

Plus on the following dates, join a guided conversation with artists from the show talking about their work and the inspirations behind it.

Artists talks to take place on Saturday 21 March, 11am, Thursday 9 April, 6pm & Saturday 25 April, 12pm. The Channel Islands Contemporary Art Show is produced

by ArtHouse Jersey and Art for Guernsey in association with Passerelle Centre d’Art Contemporain in Brest, Brittany.

Friday 20 March - Sunday 3 May 2026 ArtHouse Jersey at Capital House 12pm to 6pm daily (closed Mondays)

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Dementia is often framed as a devastating condition. Representations in the media, and the arts, can focus on severe cognitive decline, loss of independence, and a sudden, diminished quality of life. In turn, this generates fear, stigma, and prejudice.

But people living with dementia rarely change overnight. Diagnoses of dementia vary, as do the experiences of those living with the condition. When equipped with strategies and offered the right support, at the right time, many people with dementia can have a good quality of life, before symptoms limit their independence.

By shifting the narrative from one of despair to possibility, we can better appreciate the capabilities and potential of people living with dementia. We can give hope to those with a recent diagnosis, reducing stigma and promoting a more inclusive and supportive society in the process. Come along to celebrate the lives of nine remarkable islanders and be prepared to have your preconceptions challenged.

‘Reframing Dementia’ features images by five Channel Island photographers (Paul Chambers, Sophie Darwin, Oliver Doran, Étienne Lainé, and Natalie Mayer) and is a partnership project between Dementia Jersey and ArtHouse Jersey.

ArtHouse Jersey at Capital House: Friday 15 May to Sunday 7 June Royal Square: Monday 25 May to Sunday 7 June Free entry

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

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12-14 JUNE A new ballet inspired by the Jersey legend Glowing eyes. A warning howl.

A shadow on the coast.

Is it a guardian… or a harbinger of doom?

World-renowned choreographer Jeroen Verbruggen Double Bill: Including Marco Goecke’s Whiteout and Music by Bob Dylan Jersey Opera House: 12 June – 19:30 (VIP Premiere), 13 June – 19:30 and 14 June – 14:30 Approx. 1h 20m (incl. interval) • Pay What You Can • Limited £5 tickets available • Dress Code: Black & White VIP PREMIERE – 12 JUNE: Champagne reception • Meet the dancers • Post-show canapés

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C U LT URE

C E L E B R AT I N G T H E P E R F O R M I N G A R T S

EDITOR EMMA PALLENT emma@factory.je ADVERTISING & SALES FLO BALDERSON flo@factory.je PUBLISHER BEN DAVIES ben@factory.je

EXPRESS YOURSELF

This supplement began as an idea to highlight emerging dancers on the island, in line with the theme ‘expression’. But as we delved deeper into our island’s vibrant performing arts scene, it became clear that honing in on this one area would fall short of demonstrating the array of talent on the island.

At one end are those beginning to define their path, such as eighteen-year-old dancer Darcey Cronin and aspiring opera singer Rubie Le Masurier, who is just fifteen yet already performs with a sense of assurance beyond her years. At the other end are the organisations shaping the conditions in which that talent can grow, such as the Jersey Arts Centre, with its layered programme of performances, workshops and exhibitions, or Jersey College, encouraging students to engage in the arts alongside academic study.

It’s no secret that those who take part in the arts are a lively bunch with big ideas.

Looking ahead, that energy is set to hit the Royal Square at the upcoming Jersey Blues Fest this May. With free admission, internationally renowned artists, and some of the island’s best food trucks and bars, it’s sure to help you get your mojo back. See you there.

01534 811100 GALLERY IS PUBLISHED BY

10 MINDEN STREET ST HELIER JE2 4WR FACTORY IS A TRADING STYLE OF SIXBYNINE LTD, REGISTERED IN JERSEY NO. 89716

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If you want to watch professional ballerinas, you usually have to go to the UK to see them,” she said. “So being able to watch them perform here is… it’s really inspiring. It gives you a sense of security, seeing that it’s actually possible.

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Next Steps

No performing arts supplement would be complete without championing some of our island’s outstanding talent on the dance scene. I had a chance meeting with Carolyn Rose Ramsay from Ballet d’Jerri while searching for some of Jersey’s most promising performers, and she pointed me in the direction of Darcey Cronin, an eighteen-year-old dancer who decided a few years ago to pursue dance professionally and has been working towards that goal ever since.

H

aving established a reputation both on and off island through competitions and performances, Darcey is accustomed to a rhythm that leaves little room for idleness.

Training every day for around three hours, often more, she embodies the kind of commitment that builds quietly over time, her discipline so ingrained it feels instinctive.

Darcey began dancing at the age of three at what was then First Tower School of Dancing, now Silhouette Studios of Performance.

Ballet came first, laying the technical foundation on which everything else would build. Under the early guidance of Mary Walledge, she developed what those around her describe as a strong grounding in classical technique. Over time, that base expanded. Today, she has reached advanced levels across ballet, modern, tap and highland, and moves comfortably between styles that demand very different things of the body and mind.

With a broad range of styles under her belt, including ballet, jazz, highland and contemporary, Darcey is well equipped for whatever a performance demands. Nevertheless, she is clear on her preferences. “My favourite styles are probably ballet and contemporary because they suit me the most,” she explained. “But then I also love doing tap and jazz as well.”

That range has been shaped in part by her training with Narelle O’Connor, under whom she has developed both technical ability and stylistic fluency. It is a combination that has served her well on the competitive circuit. Darcey has taken part in UK competitions and local Eisteddfods, steadily building a record of achievement that culminated this year in winning the Angela Burnett-Craigie Cup for ballet. At the Channel Island Dance World Cup qualifiers, she was awarded Most Outstanding Dancer, a distinction given at the judges’ discretion to performers who stand out across an entire weekend. Reflecting on the moment in a characteristically understated way, she said, “it’s nice to know that all the hard work pays off.”

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The turning point in her story came not as a single moment, but as a gradual shift in belief. Having trained her whole life, it was not until she was around fifteen that she began to take the idea of dancing professionally seriously.

“Learning more about it made me realise I really wanted to go into it,” she explained. Even then, her ambition came with some hesitation. “I think the turning point was believing that I could do it,” she reflected. “I decided I’d rather try it and fail than look back and think what if.”

That growing confidence can be traced in part to her introduction to Ballet d’Jerri. After being noticed at a competition by Carolyn Rose-Ramsay, she was invited to take part in a workshop. What followed was a sustained period of informal training with the company, attending classes and, when possible, performing. “The dance classes are built to make you feel like you’re in the company, and it really helped me with my confidence,” she said.

For a dancer based on a small island such as Jersey, proximity to a professional company like Ballet d’Jerri is significant. “If you want to watch professional ballerinas, you usually have to go to the UK to see them,” she said.

“So being able to watch them perform here is… it’s really inspiring. It gives you a sense of security, seeing that it’s actually possible.”

That sense of possibility now extends beyond the island.

Darcey has been offered a place at London Studio Centre to study ballet and dance performance from September, with the potential of an Exceptional Talent scholarship.

She is also in the process of auditioning for the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Alongside this, she is preparing to sit her A-level in dance, for which she is predicted an A*. Balancing academic work with an intensive training schedule is, by her own admission, demanding, though not unfamiliar. “I’m kind of used to it,” she says. “I’m a very organised person.”

What emerges most clearly is a dedication to a particular mindset. “I think it’s more so your own mental strength,” she says, when asked about the challenges of developing as a dancer. “You really have to believe in yourself. I’d say that’s probably the hardest part of it.” When asked what advice she would give to younger dancers, she said, “Don’t compare yourself to other people… just focus on yourself.”

In Darcey’s answers, there is a noticeable absence of grand narrative. Her achievements are acknowledged lightly, her ambition tempered with a clear understanding of the industry’s demands. For now, the focus is on the next step, further training and the transition from a promising student into a professional dancer. Asked about her dream stage, she mentions Sadler’s Wells, the London theatre where The Royal Ballet began its life. The answer feels less like a distant ambition and more like a natural destination along a path she is already following. If the trajectory holds, it is not difficult to imagine her there.

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Somatic

/sə(ʊ)ˈmatɪk/ adjective relating to the body,

especially as distinct from the mind.

Creativity is innate in every one of us, although so many people view it as a gift only reserved for certain remarkable people, or a mysterious quality of childhood that we inevitably grow out of. As grown-ups we must resist the trap of believing that being imaginative is a privilege of those with time on their hands. Everyone has the capacity for innovation; it is a trait that has been evolving in humans for millennia.

Nurturing our individual self expression and creativity as an adult means paying attention to the interests you might have buried and making contact with your innermost thoughts and experiences.

Honouring your authentic experience and your inner world is crucial to live a life that feels inspiring and promotes wellbeing.

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Words: Nyah Schiessel

Photography: Danny Evans

Even if you are somebody who considers themselves not to have a creative bone in their body, the journey of introspection to discover new parts of yourself will always pay off.

We can reflect on our own childhood to understand what is worth unearthing in adulthood. The places we found enjoyment before self criticism crept in. The things we weren’t afraid to spend time on before responsibilities begged for our focus. We can learn which stones are best turned over by remembering the activities we loved, the posters we stuck on our childhood bedroom walls and the way we connected with our curiosity through play. Children are an example of self expression and true humanity before social conditioning held any weight on our consciousness.

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Becoming familiar with your self expression as an adult might seem hopeless, especially if you find yourself nestled in a life that rarely challenges you to think outside the box, or try new things. That is why one of the greatest things you can do is expose yourself to new environments.

Whether you follow the call of childhood interests or simply take a gamble on a new class that tickles your fancy, actively choosing to reconnect with your creativity is something to be celebrated. There is a strong pulse of expression in our Jersey community that warmly welcomes anyone who is curious. Many opportunities for self discovery can be found in classes, experiences and workshops on our island.

Q What is an unexpected benefit you have gained from

expressing yourself through dance?

A teacher once told me “How you move on the dancefloor is how you move through life.”. That insight stayed with me. As I allowed myself to be more creative and responsive in dance, I noticed that same shift happening beyond it. I began to meet life’s challenges more creatively. Instead of experiencing obstacles as blocks, I started asking ‘How can I respond to this creatively?’ ‘How can this become part of the dance instead of something in the way?’

What is one small thing people can do every day to tap into somatic movement?

Put on your favourite song and find a way to embody your 10 year old self! We often as adults neglect playfulness and expression in our daily routines. By allowing yourself to dance freely you provide your nervous system with joy. I think children are our biggest teachers, they have no fear of judgement, they are the embodiment of pure joy and play, they are unapologetic for their unique expression and I think as we grow older we become more conditioned by social norms, and less able to connect with what we truly feel and want to express.

One such space is Somatic Dance Jersey, facilitated by Mia Bourne. Her sessions craft a space for conscious movement practice, fostering body awareness and inviting those who join to listen inwardly and let the body speak its own language. Perhaps you have been searching for a way to tap into your creativity without picking up a paintbrush or digging clay from under your nails, but something intuitive and free that brings you home to your body and connects you with your inner child. Curious to learn more about the practice and what it offers, I spoke with Mia about her journey with movement and the role dance can play in bringing people home to themselves.

Do you need any dancing experience to join your classes?

Absolutely not! My classes are open to all. We often have an age range of men and women from 18 – 65+.

“In a world that asks us to be perfect and perform, this is a space to feel and respond,” A sober practice, free from alcohol, substances and even mobile phones… Not the dance scene many are accustomed to in Jersey, but no mask is necessary at Somatic Dance Jersey, where the dancefloor does not discriminate but welcomes people of all backgrounds to find and honour their individuality without pressure or distraction.

Most of her life was spent dancing in structured environments, following choreography and finding little self expression in dance, and it was during a challenging chapter of her life in which Mia found hope and softness in free movement practice at 5Rhythms, founded by Gabrielle Roth in London. The natural high and feeling of aliveness that came after a class soon led Mia to explore a more personal practice. She began to attend ecstatic dance classes in Hackney while also finding her own movement in the park, dancing with nature and noticing a strong connection between dancing with the trees and plants, and the relief of no longer suffering from stuck emotions that were searching for a way to pass through.

Watching others move their bodies and dance with no rules; shaking, crawling and jumping, gave Mia permission to let go. “Watching people move together with unfiltered honesty softened something in me.” and so, after 5 years of journeying with movement and experiencing the healing medicine of dance, finding connection with others, but most profoundly herself, Mia became a qualified facilitator with Somatic Dance International and brought Somatic Dance Jersey to the island.

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What would you say to someone who was skeptical about starting?

Trying something new can feel uncomfortable, I certainly felt that way when I first went to my first free movement practice. This practice is not about being “good” at dancing, it’s about feeling joy in our bodies, connecting with the present moment, with each other and also having fun whilst moving. We are all living this messy human life, we experience anger, joy, rage, grief, sadness, love and everything in between. We all have our own stories, our own experiences of life “lifeing” us. On the dance floor everything can exist together, everything is invited to be expressed and to be moved, it’s a celebration of life and all the beauty and challenges we experience as humans. My hope for this community is that things can begin to be expressed together and not in isolation.

Whether through art, music, or moments of reflection, reconnecting with our creative expression allows us to remember parts of ourselves that have been submerged beneath the demands of adulthood.

Maybe the real invitation is not to pressure ourselves into being more creative, but to return to something that has always been there- patiently waiting for us to listen.

“In a world that asks us to be perfect and perform, this is a space to feel and respond,” W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

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, e f i l of y a w a s i g n i Perform . u o y s e v a it never le Professional dancer Stephanie Mourant reimagined her passion through fitness Steph is a personal trainer, fitness instructor and Pilates teacher at Funktion Fitness, but what you might not know is that she is a professionally trained ballerina who spent over a decade travelling the world as a dancer. She has taken her love of movement and created something really special at Funktion, where she runs dance fitness classes for people of all ages and abilities.

Steph’s love for performing is infectious. It’s fascinating to see someone who has chosen such a different way of life one full of travel, energy and challenge. We spoke about the highs and the lows: the discipline of boarding at a high-level dance school from a young age, being pushed to exhaustion, and even figuring out technical partner lifts on a boat in the middle of the Atlantic.

Let’s start by going right to the origin story of where this love of dance and fitness began. Steph was just three years old when she first became enthralled watching her older sister dance. She would wait eagerly at the door, waiting for her sister to get home from her dance class and teach her everything she had learnt.

As the years went on, Steph began taking more and more classes after school, and it quickly became clear that dance was her passion. At the age of 12, she left home to study at the prestigious Hammond School in Chester. This is where things really intensified. Six years of academic study alongside hours of daily dance training pushed both her body and mind.

Music, of course, is a huge part of dance.

Steph tends to choose songs that connect with her personally. This process influences her choreography and helps maintain the high level of energy she brings to each session. Physically, the classes are a great cardiovascular workout (something I can personally attest to after trying one myself) Drum beats and greatest showman playing, you don’t even realise you’re working out!

Steph explains that “The high-energy nature of dance helps strengthen the heart, improve circulation and increase lung capacity, while also burning a significant number of calories,” “Dance involves moving the body in different directions and planes of motion, it also helps improve balance, coordination and agility, which supports better posture and body awareness.”

Alongside the physical benefits, dancing also has powerful mental benefits. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, lower the chances of dementia and create a sense of connection through community.

Steph sees this transformation regularly in her classes. “Over time, I see people’s confidence growing, not just in the class but in themselves. People start to feel part of the community and begin to bring their personalities to class. They also realise how good it feels to move their bodies, let go of stress and have fun. For most people, dance class becomes something they genuinely look forward to each week.”

Overall, it’s clear that dance goes far beyond what we might first expect. It’s rooted in community, energy and connection. It’s inspiring to see how Steph has taken her love of performing and found a way to share that passion with the island.

See Steph at 5.30pm on Tuesdays and 12.15pm on Thursdays. www.funktion.je

There were moments where she was worked to exhaustion, with her body almost giving in, yet she was expected to continue training. It was tough, but Steph wouldn’t change a thing. “It ultimately shaped me into the strongest dancer and performer I could become.”

After graduating, Steph performed in several shows across the UK, including The King and I at Curve Theatre. She then went on to have a successful career performing with Cunard Line and Holland America Line. After performing on several world cruises and travelling the globe, Covid hit and Steph returned to Jersey. During that time she gained her personal training qualifications and began working at Funktion. It was here that she introduced dance fitness to the gym, bringing together her two passions. Steph’s mantra for her classes is simple. “It’s not about getting every step right. That will come with time. Dance class is really about moving your body to music and, most importantly, having fun and releasing those feel-good endorphins.”

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Going for

Gold

Golden Hour Entertainment, run by co-directors Megan Reynolds and Alice Veitch, brings a fresh, modern energy to the island’s performing arts scene while staying true to a legacy of quality. Formerly known as JLee Productions, the company already had a strong reputation. But when the new team took it over last year, they saw an opportunity to build on that foundation and make it their own.

Alice and Meg are performers themselves, and this drives everything they do. Alice trained at the Guildford School of Acting, and Meg at Italia Conti, two of the UK’s most respected performing arts institutions. That shared background not only brings a high level of professionalism to Golden Hour, but also a real understanding of what performers need to thrive.

bring ideas to life. Currently, Alice and Meg are working alongside Luke Brown of Music Managed, as the creative team for Footloose the Musical for the Jersey Green Room Theatre Company. Creativity is a huge part of their identity; Alice and Meg love nothing more than taking a concept and turning it into something tangible, exciting and memorable.

The island is full of incredible talent, such as professional performers returning home after training, as well as younger performers who are just at the start of what promise to be exciting careers. Golden Hour Entertainment is all about celebrating that talent, and giving people a platform to grow, perform and be seen.

While putting on a good show is a given for Golden Hour Entertainment, Alice and Meg are about building something that performers and audiences alike can feel part of. Fresh, creative and full of heart, Golden Hour Entertainment is shining a light on the island’s talent (and it’s only just getting started).

The company offers a wide range of entertainment, from interactive meet-and-greet experiences to dancers, singers and skaters. The Golden Hour team also supports local bands and productions, working collaboratively to

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

info@goldenhourentertainment.co.uk

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Jordi Sunier

Deputy Director (Admin & Marketing) At JAC for 7 Years Standing ovation for...

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON (West End)

Wayne Stewart

Exhibitions Co-ordinator At JAC for 6 Years Standing ovation for...

HIS MUM’S MACARONI CHEESE (yes, food!)

Steven Laffoley-Edwards

Jason Kenyon

Deputy Director (Stage & Events)

Deputy Stage Manager

Siena Kilby

At JAC for 28 Years Standing ovation for...

RENT (Broadway)

At JAC for 26 Years Standing ovation for...

Assistant Stage Manager At JAC for 1 Year Standing ovation for...

NYE (National Theatre)

TOM BAKER

(in Doctor Who)

Daniel Austin

Press and Marketing Assistant

At JAC for 14 years Standing ovation for...

BETTE DAVIS in All About Eve (film)

Victoria Gordon

Director (Executive & Artistic)

Nicole Twinam

At JAC for 24 Years Standing ovation for...

MABOU MINES DOLLHOUSE

Hettie Duncan

Education and Outreach Assistant

(after Ibsen)

Education and Outreach Manager

At JAC for 3 Years Standing ovation for...

Nick Carver

Marketing Manager

At JAC for 11 Years Standing ovation for...

RIVERDANCE

(First appearance in Eurovision Song Contest, Dublin April 1994)

HAMILTON (West End)

At JAC for 12 Years Standing ovation for...

OLIVER!

(West End)

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Behind the Curtain When I met Daniel Austin and Nick Carver, the Director and Marketing Manager of the Jersey Arts Centre, they spoke with the particular animation of people for whom work and vocation have long since merged into one. They moved easily between practical detail and vibrant enthusiasm, describing programmes and productions not as a fixed schedule but as something closer to a living system, continually reshaped by the people sustaining it behind the scenes.

The breadth of the programme defines the Centre, but equally, so does the people that sustain it. “The vast majority of the staff have a vocation to work in the theatre,” Daniel observed. That vocation rarely confines itself to a single role. “Each one of our staff probably has around four or five specific skills,” he said, listing actor, director, writer, costume designer and set designer among them.

Nick, in addition to his marketing responsibilities, designs costumes for productions. Elsewhere, an exhibitions coordinator may also be an actor and a writer. Creative practice runs alongside administrative work, not as an accessory but as an integral part of it.

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aniel, who has been at the Centre for more than twenty-five years, does not recognise the notion of a standard routine. “There is no typical day,” he said.

“Extraordinary things can happen all the time because of the hundreds of performances that we have on our stage.”

In 2025, the Centre presented 264 ticketed performances to a combined audience of 29,489, a figure that gestures toward the density of activity contained within its walls.

That variability is not incidental but very much structural.

“There’s three types of performances,” he explained.

“There’s our professional programme… we have our local societies and other hirers… and then we’ve got our in-house productions.” These strands operate simultaneously, often overlapping in ways that would strain a larger, more compartmentalised institution. A local theatre company might inhabit the stage for a week or more, moving through technical rehearsals and dress runs, while a touring musician may arrive, soundcheck, perform and depart within a single evening.

The result is a space that continually shifts its rhythm.

A production might be built, performed and dismantled within ten hours, or unfold across eight days. Alongside this, exhibitions turn over every few weeks, workshops run daily across multiple rooms, and outreach projects extend beyond the building itself, from school programmes to Arts in Health Care concerts delivered in settings across the island.

For many visitors, the extent of this activity comes as a surprise. “People always comment that they didn’t realise the Arts Centre did so much,” Daniel said. What presents, from the outside, as a theatre or gallery is in practice a dense cultural network, where exhibitions, festivals, residencies, education initiatives and touring work sit in close proximity.

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This fluidity produces a particular working culture grounded in shared investment. “We all get involved,” Daniel said. “If there’s anything anyone needs, there’s always someone who offers to supply it.” During production weeks, staff not formally assigned to a show often find themselves drawn into it, contributing where they can, less out of obligation than out of a collective commitment to the work.

In 2025, the Centre presented 264 ticketed performances to a combined audience of 29,489, a figure that gestures toward the density of activity contained within its walls.

”

That sense of participation extends beyond the core team.

A large volunteer base supports performances as stewards and front-of-house staff. “We couldn’t operate without these people,” Daniel noted. Alongside a membership of more than eleven hundred individuals, they form what he described as a “home outside of home,” a space in which audiences return both as spectators and participants.

There is something distinctly local in the way the Centre operates. In a place the scale of Jersey, disciplines and communities overlap, and the Arts Centre has become a point at which they converge. “If you want it, we want to help make it happen here,” Daniel said. The concentration produces an offering that is varied and tightly woven, shaped by proximity as well as intent.

The pace shows little sign of easing. The Centre continues to host major events, including the International Film Festival and the Playdays Children’s Festival, while preparing a programme of workshops, performances and screenings to mark UNESCO’s World Art Day. From the outside, it may still present itself as a theatre, a gallery, or simply a venue with a well-regarded café. Inside, it is something more dynamic: a place where, as Daniel put it, “every moment of every day is completely different,” and where that difference is sustained, collectively, by the people who make it possible. @GALLERYMAGAZINE

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More Than Just Dancing

Shaping Skills for Life Beyond the Studio

To an outsider, dance lessons might appear to be nothing more than movement to music. Yet, for students, often without realising it, dance is far more than a physical activity. It is a great tool that equips students with essential life skills extending well beyond the studio and into their future.

Resilience is another key skill. Mistakes, forgotten choreography, or challenging dance styles are unavoidable.

Students learn to persevere, seeing setbacks as opportunities rather than failures. Dance teaches that feeling nervous doesn’t stop success and this mindset will extend into their academic life, job interviews and other challenges.

One of the most significant qualities dance instills is discipline. Progress in dance doesn’t happen overnight, it takes years of repetition, dedication, and consistent effort.

Students practice steps and routines repeatedly, apply corrections and strive to improve both in and outside of class. This commitment teaches them the value of hard work which is a lesson that can be carried over into education, careers and personal goals. Improvement comes from small efforts over time, and students learn patience, delayed gratification and self motivation, which are all skills that benefit every area of life.

Dance also supports teamwork, communication and builds on friendships. Group dances and partner work require trust and awareness of others. Students learn to support one another and work towards shared goals which are skills essential for relationships, leadership and future workplaces.

Dance also nurtures confidence, communication, and teamwork. Performing in front of peers in class or on stage to an audience during shows, trips or competitions encourages students to step outside their comfort zone.

Over time, they become more self assured not only in their abilities as dancers but also in how they present themselves in daily life. Exams and competitions reinforce these skills, demonstrating the importance of preparation, courage and pride in their achievements.

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Photography: Becky Le Brun

Finally, dance encourages creativity, emotional expression and self reflection. Through movement, students explore feelings, tell stories and develop skills in understanding emotions. Etiquette, focus and self discipline are woven throughout every class, exam and performance. These experiences help students develop confidence, motivation, coordination, and pride in achievement; qualities that stay with them long after the studio lights dim.

Ultimately, dance classes shape well rounded individuals.

Students may enter the studio to learn steps, but they leave with skills that prepare them for life.

07797 717464 | info@justmove.je | www.justmove.je

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DISCOVER UNFORGETTABLE LIVE PERFORMANCE AT

JERSEY OPERA HOUSE

Spring at Jersey Opera House brings a vibrant programme of live performance, from breathtaking contemporary dance to uplifting music. Alongside these exciting spring highlights, the Opera House is also delighted to reveal a special festive announcement – a spectacular professional pantomime coming to the stage for Christmas 2026.

HIDDEN – MOTIONHOUSE

Thursday 23 & Friday 24 April | 7.30pm | Friday Matinee 1.30pm

Internationally renowned dance-circus company Motionhouse returns with its jaw-dropping production Hidden. A powerful fusion of contemporary dance and thrilling circus skills, the show explores how light can emerge from darkness during times of crisis. At the cutting edge of live performance, gravity-defying choreography unfolds across a shape-shifting set, enhanced by immersive projections and an evocative soundscape. Visually spectacular and deeply moving, Hidden creates an extraordinary world on stage where athleticism, artistry and technology combine to produce a truly unforgettable theatrical experience.

Tickets: £21–£30

THE D-DAY DARLINGS – VICTORIOUS

Thursday 7 May | 7.30pm

Britain’s beloved vocal group The D-Day Darlings bring their uplifting new show Victorious to Jersey Opera House. Following their acclaimed VE Day 80 tour and performances at the Royal Albert Hall, the group return with an evening of timeless music and moving storytelling. Featuring classics from Vera Lynn, The Andrews Sisters and other iconic performers, the show journeys through the defining sounds of the twentieth century. With vintage glamour, soaring harmonies and heartfelt tributes, Victorious celebrates resilience, love and the enduring spirit of a generation.

Tickets: £22–£28

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

18 December 2026 – 3 January 2027

Looking ahead to Christmas, Jersey Opera House will stage its first professional pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk. Created with award-winning producers Evolution Productions, this magical festive spectacular promises dazzling staging, laugh-outloud comedy and plenty of audience participation. Packed with music, adventure and larger-than-life characters, pantomime is a beloved theatrical tradition for all ages. With opportunities for local performers to be involved, Jack and the Beanstalk is set to become a brand-new festive highlight for Island audiences.

Discover these shows and many more at www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk

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Young Musician of the Year The annual PwC Jersey Young Musician of the Year competition, hosted at the Jersey Opera House, is an evening packed with talent as the island comes together to celebrate the next generation of musicians.

Having already distinguished themselves as the strongest in their field, heat winners take the stage and use it as both a proving ground and a launchpad for future aspirations.

This year, six finalists arrived, having already outperformed their piers across piano, strings, brass, percussion, woodwind and voice. Amelia Weber (piano), Prtuha Tejpal (violin), Filip Swoboda (tuba), Oliver Hutton (percussion), Dante Chain Lopez (tenor saxophone) and Rubie Le Masurier (vocal) brought a swathe of musical languages, creating a programme that had something for everyone. Judged on both technical ability and expressive ability, the evening centred around how each musician translated their personal repertoire into captivating performances. The competition, now in its 34th year, saw Rubie Le Masurier crowned the winner, with her performance standing out for it’s control, clarity and emotional depth.

We brought the six finalists together for a studio shoot, asking them questions that reveal the heart behind the music, whether that’s the instruments they’ve grown up with, the ones they dream of mastering or the musicians, dead or alive, they’d most want to meet. Read on to discover what our island’s freshest musical talent loves, and gets up to, behind the scenes.

Amelia Weber

Competition instrument: Piano Dream instrument (if you couldn’t play your own): Violin Musician you’d most like to meet (dead or alive): Frédéric Chopin Piece currently on repeat: Tchaikovsky’s Pas de deux (piano arrangement) Pre-performance ritual: Put my AirPods in and go through my repertoire Dream concert venue: The Royal Albert Hall

Filip Swoboda

Competition instrument: Tuba Dream instrument (if you couldn’t play your own): Baritone saxophone Musician you’d most like to meet (dead or alive): Chester Bennington Piece currently on repeat: Patience by Guns and Roses Pre-performance ritual: Deep, slow breathing Dream concert venue: London Theatre

Photography: Danny Evans

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Rubie Le Masurier

Competition instrument: Voice Dream instrument (if you couldn’t play your own): Bass guitar Musician you’d most like to meet (dead or alive): Bob Marley, Benjamin Britten and Elīna Garanča Piece currently on repeat: The ending ‘Grimes! Grimes!’ mad scene from Peter Grimes by Benjamin Britten Pre-performance ritual: SATB warm-ups, my scarf, and a nebuliser (steam for my vocal cords) Dream concert venue: The Metropolitan Opera House and the Royal Albert Hall

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Oliver Hutton

Competition instrument: Percussion Dream instrument (if you couldn’t play your own): Bass trombone Musician you’d most like to meet (dead or alive): Gordon Goodwin Piece currently on repeat: Quincy Jones – The Joy of Cookin’ Pre-performance ritual: Eat Mini Eggs (a firm favourite amongst percussionists) Dream concert venue: The Prague Opera House

Dante Chain Lopez

Competition instrument: Tenor saxophone Dream instrument (if you couldn’t play your own): Guitar Musician you’d most like to meet (dead or alive): John Coltrane Piece currently on repeat: My Red Hot Car by Squarepusher Pre-performance ritual: Block out everything around me and focus on the performance Dream concert venue: Red Rocks Amphitheatre

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An Open Invitation to

the Blues It's rare for Jersey to put on a festival and score the biggest names within a given genre. It's rarer still for that festival to be free. In May, the Royal Square will shift into a buzzing open air event where anyone is invited to gather for music, good times and an atmosphere that's bound to feel pretty special.

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he Jersey Blues Festival, organised by harmonica virtuoso Giles Robson in partnership with sponsors TASC, is bringing internationally renowned blues artists to the island in support of JAAR. Its origins are simple, following a conversation Giles had one evening, with Alick McIntosh (CEO of TASC) at the United Club. The idea was to put something on in support of Jersey Action Against Rape. After looking at smaller, more intimate events, the focus shifted to something on a larger scale. "If we're going to do something in Jersey," Giles had said, on the balcony overlooking the Royal Square, "let's do something really big and special.”

Rather than a modest fundraiser, what has emerged is closer to a European square festival, reimagined for the island. "This is a perfect place for a blues festival," Giles said of the venue. "They're usually free admission festivals that bring the whole of the town into the centre, and they have these incredible atmospheres." Without ticket barriers, the audience becomes wider and less defined.

"You're not only getting the music fans," he explained, "you're getting everyday people.

Some of the most magical experiences are when you meet people that are not massive blues fans, but have gone because it's a community event, and they have an incredible reaction to the music.”

The blues is a giving music, and isn't a genre that demands prior knowledge. "It's the sort of music that you don't need to know, but will really enjoy when you witness it," Giles explained. The idea of music being encountered rather than sought out sits at the heart of the festival's appeal, and yet, for something so accessible, the calibre of the line-up is anything but casual. Giles is clear about this: "we've not skimped on the lineup. We literally have the leading worldwide figures of the blues." These are the kind of artists you would typically see headlining festivals across Europe and the US. "To see any one of them, you'd be paying between $50-100 a ticket, or more," he explained.

"We're actually bringing the best of the best to Jersey, and it's absolutely free admission.”

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This combination of world-class performance and complete accessibility gives the festival a distinctive edge. As Giles describes it, the festival is "a beautiful act of giving," both to the island and the charity it supports. There are no hidden fees, just the option to donate to JAAR on leaving if you liked what you heard and want to give back. "I just really want people to understand how much of a positive thing this is for Jersey, and the cultural significance of it," Giles explained. "We're really excited about the possibility of pushing into the future with more upscale events like this.”

Alongside the international names, the programme also makes space for Jersey's own music scene, with Saturday afternoon seeing five local bands take to the stage.

"They're all exceptional Jersey bands and we're very proud to be showcasing them amongst the national stars," Giles said.

The physical setup will host a stage, food trucks and a bar, with limited seating and plenty of room left open. "We're going to leave a lot of space for people to dance and mill around," Giles said, describing a party that is "pretty free-flowing." With the ability to come and go as you like, the festival finds its real character in how it's experienced, with what Giles describes as "the ultimate party music... lots of dancing, lots of fun, lots of emotion.”

"Blues is all about emotion and rhythm," Giles explained. "It always gets people dancing."

He's been putting that to the test on a recent European tour alongside John Primer, who will be bringing the same energy to the Royal Square on Saturday. The two are old friends, and Primer has a line that encapsulates their dynamic well. When they play together, he says, "we put hot sauce on it.” For Giles, that feeling comes down to infusing the music with feeling, spurred on by the rhythm. "That combination of rhythm and emotion is what all of these American artists have,” he said. “That real, deep soul of the blues. The intensity of the performances really puts goosebumps on your skin when you hear them live.”

"There's an old saying that the blues don't ask you where you're going and they don’t care where you've been," Giles explained, encouraging audiences to let the music sink in and enjoy it while it's there. For Giles, it’s a "people's music," humble, he says, where something like jazz is more intellectual.

It talks about everyday life, the normal things people have been through, and it's community music there to make you feel better. "Those natural facts of life don't change," Giles said, "but you never feel better going over the natural facts of life than when you're listening to the blues."

SATURDAY 16TH MAY

THE ROYAL SQUARE

SATURDAY AFTERNOON JERSEY BAND SHOWCASE 1:00PM - 1:45 PM ONE MORE TIME WITH A FEELING A Blues Rock band based in Jersey, Channel Islands who play live throughout the year across the island. The band covers classic rock artists in the bluesy vein such as Gary Moore, Chris Rea and Bad Co with aplomb.

2:00PM - 2:45PM PERCHARD’S WALL Known for their 60s indie rock ‘n’ roll meets psych meets Beatles-y melodies and latter-day alt-rock, the incredibly popular Perchard’s Wall will lean into their blues side for a special show created just for the festival.

3:00PM - 3:45PM GIN HOUSE DELTA A band created specifically for the festival by some legendary veterans of Jersey’s 1990’s blues scene, expect raw, electrified and expert versions of blues classics from the likes of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and The Red Devils.

4.00 - 4.45PM THE ENGINE FEAT FERRET AND LAUREN IVY Renowned Jersey blues band playing a range of blues covers with a dash of country and soul. Expect guest appearances from legendary harmonica pioneer Ferret and vocal powerhouse Lauren Ivy 5:00PM - 5:45PM BARE BONES BOOGIE BAND A highly accomplished 5 piece band playing who expertly navigate a finely chosen selection of blues and blues-rock classics to incredible audience reactions across the island.

CHECK FOR UPDATES AT JERSEYBLUESFEST.COM LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

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FRIDAY 15TH MAY, 7.45–8.45PM:

SATURDAY 16TH MAY, 8.00–8.45PM:

FRIDAY 15TH MAY, 9.30–10.30PM:

GILES ROBSON & ROBIN KAPSALIS UK & CHICAGO

THORNETTA DAVIS DETROIT

SATURDAY 16TH MAY, 9.30–10.30PM:

SATURDAY 16TH MAY, 6.30–7.30PM:

FRIDAY 15TH MAY, 6.30–7.30PM:

Soul blues legend Johnny Rawls has spent over 50 years as an internationally recognised recording artist, producer and songwriter, helping define the genre.

London-born pianist and vocalist Dino Baptiste is a leading British blues and boogie woogie performer known for his high-energy, showmanship-led style and a career spanning over 25 years.

Blues harmonica virtuoso Giles Robson, a Blues Music Award winner and the only UK artist signed to Alligator Records, is joined

by Chicago vocalist Robin Kapsalis, whose powerful, soulful performances reflect the city’s deep blues heritage.

JOHN PRIMER, CHICAGO

Chicago blues legend and Blues Hall of Fame inductee John Primer, a former guitarist for Muddy Waters, remains one of the last authentic practitioners of traditional Chicago blues.

Known as “Detroit’s Queen of the Blues”, Thornetta Davis is a Blues Music Awardwinning vocalist celebrated for her commanding stage presence and powerful delivery.

JOHNNY RAWLS, MISSISSIPPI

TORONZO CANNON CHICAGO

Chicago bluesman Toronzo Cannon is a leading contemporary artist known for his original songwriting, expressive guitar work and internationally acclaimed live performances.

DINO BAPTISTE, UK

10.30–10.45PM, BOTH EVENINGS END OF NIGHT JAMS Each night concludes with a collaborative jam session bringing together the festival’s standout artists for an unstructured, high-energy finale.

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Giles’ Guide to

the Blues ARE THERE HAPPY BLUES?

Yes - Blues is musical medicine for a hurt soul but it is also the BEST party music!

Happy blues tunes often feature fastpaced tempos, boogie-woogie piano, or celebratory lyrics that emphasize dancing, partying, and feeling good, rather than the typical melancholy associated with the genre. Classic examples include Muddy Waters’ "Got My Mojo Working" and Big Joe Turner's "Shake, Rattle and Roll". Check some of these out on your streaming service of choice: Classic Upbeat Blues: "Got My Mojo Working" – Muddy Waters: A quintessential, high-energy live favorite.

"Let the Good Times Roll" – Koko Taylor: A powerful, celebratory invitation to party.

"My Babe" – Little Walter: A fast-paced, joyous Chicago blues tune.

"Boom Boom" – John Lee Hooker: An infectious, driving song.

"Shake That Thing" – Lightnin' Hopkins: A fun, finger-picking boogie.

"Sweet Home Chicago" – Robert Johnson/ Various: The ultimate upbeat, standard Chicago shuffle.

Boogie-Woogie & Piano Blues: "Party Town" – Marcia Ball: A lively modern blues song.

"Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee" – Johnny Otis: A high-tempo rockin' blues tune.

"Mardi Gras in New Orleans" – Fats Domino: A rollicking piano-driven tune.

"Two Fisted Mama" – Katie Webster: A boogie-woogie piano song.

Fun & Quirky Blues: "300 Pounds of Heavenly Joy" – Big Twist & The Mellow Fellows: A humorous and upbeat horn-driven track.

"My Dog" – Elvin Bishop: A playful tune from his blues-rock catalog.

"Too Much Fun" – C.J. Chenier: Zydecotinged, fast-paced fun.

"Hound Dog" – Big Mama Thornton: The original driving, bluesy version of the classic.

Modern Upbeat Blues: "Pride and Joy" – Stevie Ray Vaughan: A fast, energetic shuffle.

"The Blues Is Alright" – Little Milton: A high-energy anthem.

"Bad News" – Johnny Winter: A blazing fast guitar boogie.

"Out All Night" – Sean Riley & The Water: A high-energy, modern feel-good track.

BLUES "HARP"

Yup, it's obviously a harmonica yet people refer to it as a "harp", which is surely a large classical stringed instrument.

WHY? The slang name "blues harp" originated from a combination of the instrument's historical roots as a "mouth harp" and its adoption by African American musicians in the early 20th century to create the crying, wailing sounds of blues music. The name first emerged as early harmonica makers in German-speaking countries referred to the instrument as mundharfe (mouth harp). By the 1830s, American books were already referring to the harmonica as a "harp". It was often called a "French harp" in the American South, and some early models were marketed as "Aeolian" or "wind-harps" because they were winddriven, similar to the stringed Aeolian harp. African American blues musicians in the Mississippi Delta and Chicago adopted the 10-hole diatonic harmonica because its natural, "soulful" sound could imitate human vocal moans and cries.

ABOUT THE SPONSORS… TASC is a global carbon project developer working to address environmental challenges in ways that also deliver practical, lasting benefits for communities.

Established in 2019 as The African Stove Company Ltd., it develops and finances carbon projects designed to reduce emissions while improving lives on the ground. Its work began with improved cookstoves, tackling the widespread reliance on open-fire cooking in parts of Africa — reducing wood fuel use, lowering smoke exposure and cutting the respiratory illnesses linked to household air pollution. From there, TASC has expanded into safe water systems, regenerative grazing

and wider landscape restoration, using carbon finance to deliver solutions at scale to the communities that need them most. Today, TASC operates projects in five countries, working at the intersection of climate action, human empowerment and sustainable development.

The organisation has distributed more than 1.2 million household devices, created over 700 local jobs and issued more than 12 million carbon credits. Alongside its project work, TASC reinvests a portion of revenue through the TASC Foundation, which supports community-led initiatives assessed and monitored for transparency, impact and long-term value.

ALSO SUPPORTED BY

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MOJO

One of the most asked questions to all blues musicians is “What is a mojo??”.

Well, let me tell you...

It’s a Hoodoo/Folk Magic Amulet: Traditionally, a mojo (or “mojo hand,” “conjure bag”) is a small, flannel bag containing roots, herbs, stones, or personal items used as a lucky charm or spell in African American spiritual traditions. It is designed to be kept hidden, often worn under clothing to bring protection, luck, or love. By extension this “mojo” means one’s personal magnetism, confidence, sex appeal, or talent. Phrases like “losing your mojo” or “getting your mojo back” refer to losing or regaining energy, confidence, or success.

SWEET HOME CHICAGO

One of the most requested songs (thanks largely to its appearance in the Blues Brothers movie). But does it have a greater significance? YES IT DOES! "Sweet Home Chicago" is a 1936 blues standard by Robert Johnson that serves as an anthem for the Great Migration, urging African Americans to flee the poverty and racism of the South for better opportunities in the industrial North just as Jersey International Blues Festival headliner John Primer did in 1963. It highlights Chicago as a "promised land," often referencing a longing to return to the city. The song celebrates the, often imaginary, city of Chicago as a beacon of hope, freedom, and opportunity for black migrants from the Mississippi Delta. The song was heavily inspired by earlier recordings like Scrapper Blackwell's "Kokomo Blues" and James Arnold's "Old Original Kokomo Blues".

While Johnson's original focused on the journey, later versions, notably by

Roosevelt Sykes and popularised by The Blues Brothers, altered the lyrics to focus specifically on returning to Chicago, solidifying its status as an urban anthem.

It has been covered by numerous artists, including Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, and Freddie King, cementing its status as a foundational blues standard.

in the right hand. It is typically a 12-bar blues form that emphasises rhythm over melody, with the left hand maintaining a steady, propulsive pattern. The genre developed in logging camps and “barrelhouses” in the American South, particularly in Texas and Louisiana.

WHAT IS A HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN?

It expanded from solo piano to include piano duos/trios, big bands, and guitar, influencing the development of rhythm and blues and rock and roll. Pinetop Smith was credited with naming the genre with his 1928 recording "Pinetop's Boogie Woogie", and "The Big Three" were Albert Ammons, Meade Lux Lewis, and Pete Johnson, who gained immense popularity in the late 1930s, particularly after the 1938 "From Spirituals to Swing" concert at Carnegie Hall.

It's a good question... and could you consider yourself a Hoochie Coochie Man? A "Hoochie Coochie Man" is a blues slang term for a sexually confident, charismatic man, often implying a magical or irresistible allure rooted in hoodoo (African-American folk magic).

Popularized by Muddy Waters' 1954 song written by Willie Dixon, it evokes a selfmythologized figure with supernatural romantic power. The term is primarily used to describe the persona in the song "(I'm Your) Hoochie Coochie Man," which boasts about having a "black cat bone," "mojo," and "John the Conquer Root" to attract women. It describes a man who is a "very sexual being, displaying his power over women". Historically, it referred to a man who managed, booked, or watched the "hoochie coochie"—a suggestive belly dance popular in the late 19th-century.

BOOGIE WOOGIE

We all know it is championed by Jools Holland - but what is its history?

Boogie-woogie is a high-energy, rhythmic style of blues piano music that originated in African-American communities in the 1870s, becoming popular in the 1920s. It is characterised by a relentless, driving left-hand “8 to the bar” ostinato bassline (referring to the eight quavers (eighth notes) played per bar) paired with improvised, percussive melodies

ABOUT THE CHARITY… Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) is a specialist, trauma-informed charity supporting people affected by sexual violence. JAAR provides free, confidential support to anyone in Jersey aged 16 and over who has experienced sexual harm at any point in their life. This includes survivors of rape, sexual assault, and abuse, whether recent or historic. The charity recognises that there is no “right” way to respond to trauma, and no time limit on when someone may need support.

JAAR’s services are led by the needs of survivors. They offer one-to-one counselling to help people navigate trauma including pre-trial therapy. They also provide psychoeducation to help individuals better understand the impact of trauma on the mind and body, supporting them to regain a sense of control, safety, and selfunderstanding. Alongside their direct support work,

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JAAR is committed to prevention and education. They deliver workshops and outreach in schools, colleges, and community settings to challenge harmful attitudes, raise awareness, and promote healthy, respectful relationships. Their aim is not only to support survivors, but to contribute to long-term cultural change. At the heart of everything they do is a belief in empowerment, choice, and compassion. Their role is to listen, to support, and to walk alongside survivors at their own pace. JAAR’s work matters because sexual violence is often hidden and misunderstood.

By providing specialist support and advocating for systemic change, they help individuals rebuild their lives while also working towards a safer, more informed community for everyone.

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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NEW NOISE

DANDY Bursting with boyish charm, restless energy, and indie flair, Dandy are one of the newest bands emerging from Jersey’s music scene, engaging their fans with bubbling enthusiasm and pulsing vitality. Composed of four, brighteyed Jersey boys aged sixteen to eighteen, Dandy seems to be more like a mindset rather than just a name— a laid-back belief all is well and all is as it’s supposed to be. That’s exactly the carefree, sunlit energy the band radiates both on and off the stage.

Having only established the band ‘a few months ago’, Dandy now have a small number of live performances to their name, including their debut showcase at The Halkett, and local favourites at The Moulin De Lecq. Comprising lead vocalist Dexter, lead guitarist Josh, bassist Ben, and drummer Ashton, Dandy is the product of four young artists craving the comradery of a band with the freedom of individual creative expression. At the fore-front of the band is Dexter, the most recent of the four to pick up an instrument: ‘it was two or three years ago now that I started playing guitar, I picked it up for the first time and fell in love with it, and I haven’t put it down since’. Originally a solo act, Dexter only recently began entertaining the idea of ‘trying this whole band thing’. It was after supporting Tom Meighan with lead guitarist Josh, that the concept of Dandy was born. After an excellent first support show, Dexter and Josh thought ‘let’s get a whole band together’. After joining forces with bassist and guitarist Ben, Ashton subsequently arrived on the scene after discovering Dandy via Instagram reels. ‘I was scrolling on Instagram reels, and then I saw Dandy the band… I thought maybe they needed a drummer…I sent in a video, and then boom rehearsals’. Both Ashton, and Josh, are long-time musicians. As the youngest of the group, at just sixteen years old, Ashton has been drumming for ten years, whilst seventeen year old Josh has been ‘drumming for fifteen years and playing guitar for twelve’. Having grasped a cognitive understanding of music in their formative years, it’s no surprise that the pair now brace live performances with such collected composure.

Echoing the explosive urgency of The Jam and laced with the charismatic chaos of early Arctic Monkeys, Dandy hit the stage like someone’s just twisted the cap off a shaken bottle of pop– volatile, fizzing, and bursting at the seams.

The band all share the delirious energy that only teenage boys can possess, bracing live performance with overflowing enthusiasm, an eagerness to please, and the priority of delivering a good time. Behind the scenes, the lads of Dandy are high-spirited yet unfailingly polite; on stage, however, they take on a distinctly scrappier, grittier demeanor. This is especially adept for frontman Dexter: there is no easing into his performance, from the instance that he steps in front of the mic he is transformed, projecting feisty confidence and magnetic charm. For someone that has commanded the role of frontman less than a handful of times, Dexter’s persona on stage is that of someone with a swaggering self-assurance of years of performance experience under his belt.

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Words: Daisy Taylor

Photography: Kasia Guzik

Despite having only been on the scene since late 2025, Dandy are building a flourishing repertoire of original tracks. At the core of Dandy’s songwriting process is Dexter: ‘I’ll come in with a song for us, and then Ashton will do his thing on drums, Ben will do his thing on bass, and Josh will do his thing on lead guitar, and that’s it we’ve got a song– easy’. He later delved into his individual songwriting practice in more depth: ‘I’ll either have a good line, or a good melody that I want to add into a song by sitting and playing guitar, I’ll start just playing around with it and thinking what works and what doesn’t. Then I’ll think of some actual lyrics– at first it’ll just be a la la la or a humm, and then it’ll come after that’. The current aim for Dandy is to include as many original tracks in their live sets as possible: ‘when you’re in Jersey you’ve got to keep the covers in there to keep people happy. If we could we’d probably keep dropping the covers and adding more originals’.

At this point in time, live gigs and social media are the only outlets for Dandy’s original work, this is for the simple and frustrating fact that producing and releasing a song in today’s current market is exceedingly expensive– for young bands wanting to produce original music this poses a massive financial challenge. Therefore, whilst Dandy would love to have a selection of demos professionally recorded, it's not yet on their radar as a possibility. Upon speaking to the band, they openly discussed the concept of recording and releasing original music entirely independently– with the hopes of bassist Ben utilising his Music Tech A-Level and toying with the concept of recording a collection of original work.

As for right now though, Dandy are making the most of using phone footage of live gigs, and rehearsals, to get their music out into the world, and that means a huge reliance on social media, namely Instagram and TikTok. But it seems that Dandy is well versed in the world of social media– or more likely they have to be to push their creative work.

Dexter expresses that ‘It’s an ache, I don’t like it really… Well it’s not that I don’t like it more that I think it’s a lot of effort. But there’s no other way you can get noticed is there? Obviously it used to be CD’s, which was before our time, but I know it’s all literally driven by social media now’. Ashton furthers this: ‘no one’s going around looking at posters and stuff like that, instead people are gonna be scrolling and they’re gonna see our videos and think that’s really cool’. Dexter surmises that ‘it’s basically like our version of a poster. We need to post videos that people want to engage with. And advertise our gigs as much as possible’. It seems as though Dandy are making the right moves to promote their work, with one of their original tracks entitled Save Me From This Fall, reaching record views of 7000 on TikTok with over 400 likes. Whilst recognising the success of social media interaction like this, Dexter acknowledges that ‘I genuinely think us being in Jersey limits the audience that see us, because I think I could go through who’s liked our videos and say who they all are and they're from Jersey’.

At the pivotal ages that the lads of Dandy are at, there are big life changes approaching in the coming years. For some University in the UK is beaconing, or for the likes of Ashton, the calling to step into his Dad’s business is more appealing. But one thing’s for certain and that’s the music. In the coming months you can expect to see much more of Dandy, with their plans to pick up as many gigs as possible, and showcase as much original music as possible– who knows there could even be a music video on the cards. But for now I’ll leave you with this note from Dexter: ‘I’d say my dream is to go all the way… go big or go home’.

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Huzzah!

If you’ve ventured into the Market on a Saturday recently, you may have wandered past fruit and flower stalls to the sound of live music. The set comes courtesy of Martin from Jenca Music School, who has partnered with his daughter Aimee to bring an offbeat, fresh addition to the steady rhythm of market life. Huzzah, with its eclectic interiors and artistic products, feels less like a traditional shop and more like a creative hub, where music and art come together.

For Aimee, the starting point was simple, if slightly uncertain. “I came back from uni last summer, and I was still just trying to find something that… was mine,” she said. “My own job, my own thing.” Like many creatives

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returning to Jersey, she found the landscape difficult to navigate. “The job sector is not great for creatives,” she explained, a reality that ultimately pushed her towards creating her own space rather than waiting for one to appear.

The opportunity came unexpectedly when a vacant unit in the market opened up, just next to Dough. Aimee and her dad, Martin, who runs Jenca Music School, decided to apply.

“It was just for fun,” she laughed. “I wasn’t really expecting to get it.” Out of more than 50 applicants, they were shortlisted, interviewed and then offered the space. “They just sent an email saying, ‘you’ve got it’, and I was like, oh my God, now what?”

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What followed was a fast-paced few months of planning and painting, pulling together the scene that would eventually become Huzzah. The result is instantly recognisable, drenched in the bright yellows, oranges and pinks that characterise Aimee’s artwork. Inside, the space is filled with prints, cards and gifts, alongside a carefully curated selection of jewellery and objects that feel both playful and considered. Much of the furniture has been sourced second-hand and reworked. “That used to be dark navy blue, and that’s bright yellow now,” she said, pointing across the room. “I’d say the majority of the stuff in here is second-hand and upcycled.”

Huzzah’s partnership with Jenca Music School brings a second layer to what might otherwise have been a standalone creative retail space. Its identity is shaped by that collaboration, which for Martin had obvious benefits.

“We don’t really have a front-facing shop,” he explained.

“So we were always looking for a shop front.” The market offered a visible space where two branches of creativity could sit alongside each other, and where the school could reach people in a more informal and open way.

Guitars sit among the prints, some for sale, others waiting to be personalised by Aimee herself. “You can come in, bring your guitar and if you want it personalised, I can paint it for you,” she said. Alongside this, Jenca Music School is offering lessons, with plans to make sign-ups available directly in the shop. “We’re excited to be providing live music in the market as well,” Martin said. “There’s actually live music today outside, for the opening.” Over time, this will expand to include students, teachers and visiting performers, turning the space into a regular platform for emerging musicians.

“Combining art and music kind of makes sense,” Aimee said. The idea of a creative corner in the market is a bright and colourful one, but it also reflects a broader ambition to showcase local artists and give them the exposure needed to sustain their work. Martin echoed this.

“The whole ethos of what Aimee’s trying to do here is promote local artists 100%,” he said. “A lot of these artists don’t have an opportunity to display their work like this.”

For Aimee, working alongside her dad has been one of the most meaningful parts of the process. “Being at uni, you just don’t get to see your parents as much,” she said. “So getting to spend more time with my dad on something that’s so special, it’s really lovely.” That closeness translates into the space itself, where the structure of a long-established music school meets the instinct and experimentation of a young artist building something for the first time.

The newness comes with its own challenges. Aimee admits it can feel “very intimidating.” “I’ve definitely got imposter syndrome,” she said, when asked how it feels to open a business. But that uncertainty is also part of what drives the project forward. “I just wanted a new big adventure… something to push myself.”

Looking ahead, Huzzah is planning workshops, with a rotating programme of activities from lino printing to collage and felting, aimed at creating a more social, hands-on creative environment. “I think that’s kind of the point,” Aimee said. “Especially being a younger person that’s in Jersey… you kind of see that Jersey is lacking in areas to do with activities.” The aim is to offer an open, informal space that feels accessible, particularly to younger people looking for alternatives to more traditional social scenes. With time, passing footfall and a growing sense of curiosity, Huzzah feels like a small, bright corner that might quietly grow into something much bigger.

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STAGES OF CONFIDENCE

HOW PERFORMING ARTS EMPOWER JCG STUDENTS

At Jersey College for Girls, the performing arts are not just subjects on a timetable, they are a vital part of how we empower our students to discover their voice, build confidence, and achieve academic excellence.

Starting from Year 7, our Music and Drama curriculum help students develop their creativity, resilience, and communication skills, laying the stage for success in every aspect of their life.

A Curriculum That Inspires and Challenges

Performing arts education nurtures a combination of cognitive, social, and emotional skills that are not only transferable to every academic subject and valued highly in further education and the workplace, but also essential for young women as they develop into leaders. It cultivates communication skills, discipline, attention to detail and problem-solving as well as their imagination and adaptability. It also helps students develop the ability to think from different perspectives and to work collaboratively, as they learn how to listen, support one another, and share responsibility through group performances to ensemble work. Just as importantly, performing arts bring much needed levity amid academic subjects – whilst still challenging our students in many fronts, they bring amusement into their day, allowing them to explore new things in a relaxed way.

Preparing Students for Success – in College and beyond

Research consistently shows that students who engage in the performing arts often display improved academic outcomes. Musical training strengthens memory, auditory processing, and mathematical reasoning, while Drama enhances reading comprehension, empathy, and critical thinking. By integrating the arts into the school experience, we support our students in learning more holistically, improving concentration, perseverance, and the ability to work under pressure. As they engage deeply in the performing arts, our students gain not only stronger academic foundations but also the courage to lead, the confidence to be heard, and the imagination to shape their future with clarity and purpose.

A Stage for Everyone

Our Music and Drama pathways are designed to be inclusive, ambitious, and enriching. Students explore a wide range of genres, cultures, and performance styles, ensuring that every girl finds something that resonates with her interests and identity. Opportunities for showcases, productions, solo work, and collaborative projects enable students to grow progressively in skill and confidence. Throughout the year, students can take part in a variety of House competitions that enable them to showcase their skills and develop new ones. These range

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from House Music, where they can shine as solo instrumentalists and vocalists, as well as in bands and ensembles, to House Drama, where they take centre stage in plays chosen by their House Captains and our annual dance and haute couture competition, Top of the Pops and House Fashion. Our JCG Youth Theatre has built a reputation for high calibre productions that enchant the local audience.

Likewise, our musicians have the opportunity to take part in public performances such as our Summer Concert, our Snowdome and our series of recitals at the Georgian House, recently launched in partnership with the National Trust of Jersey.

These performing opportunities give our students the chance to hone their performance skills in a professional manner, whilst also enabling other students to gain expertise in technical production skills such as stage management, lighting, and sound. As Mia Procter, JCG’s Drama Captain, said: “Performing is an amazing form of self expression: it not only brings me immense happiness, but it also brings an opportunity to share that joy with others. I think this is what makes performing so rewarding, and why it gives people such a great sense of purpose.”

Creating Lifelong Passion and Purpose

For many of our students, performing arts become more than a subject—they become a passion. Seeing them growing into their enjoyment of performing never ceases to amaze and inspire us.

Whether they continue into further study, pursue careers in creative industries, or simply carry a love of music and performance with them throughout life, our curriculum lays the foundation for personal fulfilment and creative expression.

“At Jersey College for Girls, we believe that the performing arts have a unique power to shape confident, compassionate and courageous young women,” our Principal, Carl Howarth, said. “When our students step onto the stage, they are not simply performing — they are discovering their voice, embracing challenge and learning the strength that comes from collaboration and creativity. “I am immensely proud of the passion, dedication and joy our students bring to every rehearsal, every performance and every creative endeavour. Their work reminds us that the arts don’t just enrich school life — they enrich who we become. As we celebrate their achievements, we also celebrate the teachers, families and wider community across Jersey who champion the arts and recognise their lasting value. Together, we are nurturing young people who will go on to lead, inspire and contribute with confidence, imagination and heart.”

To find out more about our performing arts offering and wider curriculum, visit jcg.je

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

CU LT U RE

‘Where words fail, music speaks’ Hans Christian Anderson.

Words: Phoebe Collins

As humans we have an innate yearning to express ourselves through music.

We sing happy birthday, clap our hands for appreciation and have invented a multitude of ways to immortalise our carefully crafted sounds, from sheet music to vinyl to the digital age of MP3 and everything in between.

Listening to and experiencing music is a beautiful gift. Like standing at the foot of a mountain, awed by its magnitude. But learning music is something else entirely.

It’s the view from the top. Science has shown both the physical, emotional and social benefits of learning music. Improved brain health, reduced stress and enhanced self expression are the tip of the iceberg.

At School of Popular Music we have the privilege of teaching and witnessing students of all ages embark on this journey.

Our vocal and piano tutor Sam highlights that ‘‘talking about difficult emotions and situations is far easier through music. My job is to provide a safe space for children and adults to step into themselves and be loud; to not be burdened by life’s usual rules or boundaries’.

How often we feel stifled by the world around us. Confused about our place within it. Yet through learning music we find a better understanding of ourselves.

We are challenged to be disciplined, open minded and often painfully present. The busy mind must quieten in order to focus and learn and that is where we honestly meet ourselves. Adult student Debbie reflects on her experience: ‘learning piano has given me a new way to express myself - sometimes even surprising me with the images and feelings a piece can create’.

Student Darcy also observes, ‘singing lessons have helped me find my voice in more ways than one. As well as feeling stronger technically, they have helped me find my confidence in using my voice in my personal and professional life. Having a singing lesson every week is reassurance and a meditative practice that allows me to express myself and release stress, as well as sharing a lot of laughs along the way.’

New experiences bring new perspectives. It is within this wonderful universal language that we are better communicators, better connected to one another and more self-aware. It demands presence, focus and determination. In a world consumed by screens and division there is no better antidote.

schoolofpopularmusic.com

There are many ways to support Jersey Arts Centre...

Become a Sponsor!

Volunteer today!

Jersey Arts Centre is dependent upon a large team of dedicated volunteers who help in a number of different ways.

If you are aged 18 and over, would like to become part of our friendly team and enjoy the benefits of seeing performances for free, making new friends and feeling part of our Arts Centre community, then you can register your interest by contacting Jordi Sunier: jordi@artscentre.je

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We rely on grants, sponsorship, membership, business partners and other fundraising initiatives to support the work we do. Your sponsorship could aid in bringing over a world class performer, help fund a project by one of our community groups or improve our facilities. Would you be able to support the work of Jersey Arts Centre? If so, email: fundraising@artscentre.je for more details.

Join our Membership!

Becoming a Member of Jersey Arts Centre gives you a wealth of benefits, whilst supporting our work in bringing the Arts to the heart of the entire community…

See the full range of Membership optionsand sign up online at: artscentre.je/membership

Association of Jersey Charities Member #78 / Jersey Charity Commission registered #62

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

CU LT U RE

there’s No business like it.

After entertaining audiences across the UK with his standup tour, Jersey-born comedian Christian Jegard is bringing his hour show ‘Mr Showbusiness’ to the Jersey Arts Centre ahead of his Edinburgh debut in August. As seen on TV in the BBC New Comedy Awards and as heard on Radio 4, you might also know him from his award-winning mockumentary web series produced for Arthouse Jersey about the Jersey Music Scene.

In anticipation of his revelry of razzmatazz, we caught up with Christian to find out what we can expect.

Hi Christian. So how did it all begin?

Well apparently a nebula collapsed a few billion years agothis caused molten rocky clumps to merge- which cooled, allowing a crust and oceans to form.

No, how did your comedy career begin?

Oh, I tried out some jokes onstage and just kept doing it.

Then a crust and bio-atmosphere formed. I got told all about Nebulas by that guy from D:Ream.

Brian Cox? No, the singer. Peter Cunnah.

Who or what is Mr Showbusiness?

It’s the title of my comedy hour special, which I’m bringing to the Jersey Arts Centre on Friday 17th April.

I read it in a Chortle review of my act, and it seemed to sum everything up. I do it all- comedy, songs, magic, key-cutting, ventriloquism, tap-dancing… the lot. Actually I’ve dropped the key-cutting from the act. It was a pain to bring on the cutter every night, and people were more applauding the machine than me.

Some say your onstage persona is a character.

Some say Gallery Magazine’s mum is a heavy drinker. I can’t control the flapping of loose lips.

You now live in Brighton, but you grew up in Jersey. Does Jersey play a role in your comedy?

Absolutely. Jersey has always been in my DNA as an entertainer, my sense of showmanship was informed by what i absorbed as a child- The Living Legend, The Fantastic Tropical Gardens, Cyril LeMarquand House. I think it was a mistake to demolish that, if only for the fact there’s not enough buildings called ‘Cyril’.

I remember sneaking into Fort Regent as a kid to watch Dylan Moran. He started doing this rather unfunny bit where he sang a latin-flavoured song, kept looking at his watch and talking about how it was ‘Chico Time’. I thought to myself, ‘I can be funnier than this.’ I later realised I’d snuck in to Chico - but the wheels were already in motion.

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What can audiences expect to take away from the show?

Don’t take anything away, behave yourselves. They were whipping away the fixtures in Cardiff, that’s not on.

How has the show developed as you’ve performed it around the UK? It hasn’t. If anything I’d say it started out fully-formed and has regressed slightly. But it’s still funnier that most shows, I’ll tell you that for nothing. You want guffaws, I gots the goods.

What venues have stuck in your mind?

Oh, Brighton Komedia, for sure. Of all the venues i’ve performed in, that was easily the most recent. But I can’t wait to do Jersey Arts Centre. Growing up I always wanted to perform there in some capacity. This is totally true - I graced the stage there just once as a kid with my primary school and we did a production of Alice in Wonderland.

I had no lines, and was given the insultingly small role of 2nd Ladybird (there were four ladybirds in total). All I had to do was run across the stage and look surprised.

Well, while the other three ladybirds were phoning their performances in, I was Philip Seymour Hoffmaning all up in that piece. You’ve never seen a ladybird so surprised.

I’m pretty sure audiences walked away thinking ‘Wow, that play about a surprised Ladybird encountering a girls tea party really spoke to me.’

What songs do you sing?

All sorts. I’ve got a soul banger called ‘bedsit party’ about having a great but very small party in my bedsit- it’s about having the best time you can in an extremely limited space. I’m also working on a punchy little ragtime swing ditty about the suffocation of trade routes during the Spanish Civil War. And I’ve also got a jazzy little number called ‘Lost my Girl’ with a live video link of backing singers behind me.

What’s that song about?

Its about four minutes.

So finally, what would you like to say to the people of Jersey?

I’d say this is the only chance to see my show on the rock so get yourself down If you’re looking for a good laugh in the vein of stuff like Vic & Bob, Les Dawson or Robert Peston, if you want to hear some rat pack style swing, if you liked being dazzled by dance routines, or if you simply just need some keys duplicated. Its a thing to do in town on Friday after work. It’s fun. Don’t deny yourself fun, you’re gorgeous and you deserve better.

‘Christian Jegard: Mr Showbusiness’ is on at Jersey Arts Centre on Friday 17th April. For tickets, visit artscentre.je

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PE O PLE

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

PEOPL E

Pressing issues.

Words: Emma Pallent

Photography: Danny Evans

I first met Sonia when I accompanied my publisher to collect his freshly dry-cleaned black tie ahead of our Christmas party, an endeavour that conveniently allowed me to procrastinate a looming deadline. I have never seen someone press pillowcases with such enthusiasm. Sonia rocked back and forth on her feet as she worked, pushing the fabric down with practised vigour whilst chatting away to customers waiting at the counter.

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he manager of Rayners Dry Cleaning has bright red curly hair and is small in stature, yet boasts a presence that effortlessly fills the room. If you ever make her acquaintance you’ll have the pleasure of being showered with the reception one would give to a lifelong friend. What struck me most, however, was the unmistakeable sense that she genuinely loved what she was doing. Here was someone actively loving an industry built around a chore most people avoid. According to a YouGov poll, ironing ranks as the task Brits dislike the most, with half the country saying they hate doing it (ahead of taking the bins out, 37%).

Watching someone relish a task most people find mundane got me thinking about the familiar debate of whether you should pursue a career for passion or profit.

Follow what you love, the logic goes, or follow the money and hope satisfaction arrives somewhere along the way.

In practice, the distinction appears to rarely be this neat.

I’ve met people on both sides of the divide who eventually burnt out and ended up resenting their work because they pursued one of the opposing ideals too intensely. Does satisfaction come from the career, in my case editing, in Sonia’s pressing, or do both of us simply enjoy organising a wild, disparate mess into something presentable under a deadline?

It was a few months before I saw Sonia again and had the opportunity to take this thought further. After watching The New Yorker’s centenary documentary, my publisher and I found ourselves talking enthusiastically about their long-running “Talk of the Town” column, where reporters wander through New York asking ordinary people what is occupying their thoughts. The result gives a small window into the collective mood of a place, and we thought the format might translate well to Jersey.

Sonia immediately came to mind. Curious about what made her tick, I returned to the launderette and asked whether she might be open to an interview in which she could talk about anything ‘pressing’ on the island at the moment (a pun I later realised may have complicated matters). When I arrived a few weeks later, I expected to have a conversation about rising house prices, the lack of activities for children, or the familiar qualm that everyone on the island works in finance. Instead, Sonia greeted me with a prepared slice of text about pressing itself and why she loves it.

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Fearing I had accidentally miscommunicated the brief, I went a bit red and explained that I hadn’t meant ‘pressing’ literally. Sonia shrugged, smiled and explained she was perfectly aware of that. This was simply what she wanted to talk about. At this point I had the choice to steer Sonia towards talking about the rise of delinquent youths terrorising the general public via electric scooter, or follow her into her interests and risk writing a piece that reads as an advertorial for Rayners Dry Cleaning. Rather than force her hand, I went for the challenge and chose the latter.

So began the rabbit hole. What chemicals are used? Why are buttons often removed before garments go through the machines? How much more powerful is the drum compared with the washing machines most of us have at home? What exactly is the difference between an iron and a presser? And how can “wet cleaning” machines still count as “dry cleaning”?* These are questions easily answered by someone who has been working, and loving, the field of dry cleaning for the time Sonia has, having been based in the launderette on Beresford Street for the past thirty years. Her appeal began early. She found pressing therapeutic from the start, often visiting private houses that her mother cleaned when she was around eleven years old simply for the chance to use the equipment. If she’s on holiday and away from work for a long period of time, she’ll help friends and family with their pressing or check out what other dry cleaners are doing as she walks past.

Repetitive, methodical tasks have long been associated with intrinsic motivation, driving engagement through the activity itself rather than the external reward. Painters and printers often claim they enjoy the process of creating more than the outcome because it helps empty their minds, a process akin to meditation. For Sonia, the launderette offers that sort of separation between the present and the inner narrative that can run away with itself. Her philosophy is centred on the idea that when she steps into work, her problems stay outside. “Life is hard for everybody, and I’ve had my fair share thrown at me,” she said. “Working here helps me because it keeps me busy mentally.” The cyclic rhythm of the work offers a structure to the day, a routine that carries its own satisfaction and predictability. The only other activity Sonia said she enjoys to the same extent as pressing is baking, another practice built on repetition, organisation and incremental improvement.

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PE O PLE

After the wedding, the customer returned to the shop carrying a small frame he had made for her, containing a photograph of his daughter wearing the restored dress. Seeing him walk through the door with it, Sonia argued, “there’s no money in the world that pays that.”

“

After three decades in the same place, Sonia speaks about the launderette as if it is a second home. Her craft, routine, customers and the challenges of the job have gradually intertwined into a career that has been both satisfying and fulfilling. If there is an answer to why some people remain content in the same job for decades, it may lie somewhere in that combination, where a task suits the way their mind works, the community around it is strong and the craft offers just enough challenge to keep improving. For Sonia, pressing is the place where those elements tessellate together. Whilst many would view the work itself as ordinary, the joy she derives from making things presentable again clearly isn’t.

About twenty years ago she was entrusted with the most valuable garment she has ever handled: a wedding dress worth £75,000. “You have to be so, so careful with wedding dresses, with their sequins and different types of materials,” she explained. “If you do it wrong, sometimes the sequins can change colour. But that’s what I love. I love a challenge.”

Her curiosity about the craft has also pushed her to learn constantly.

She reads trade magazines about dry cleaning techniques and fabrics, looking for ways to refine her methods. Over time this attention to detail has given her a reputation that extends well beyond her customer base. Despite never using social media, her name frequently appears on local Facebook pages whenever someone asks where they should take a delicate garment.

It’s led her to develop a particular niche of working with wedding dresses. Sonia now cleans between two and three hundred of them each year, sometimes for customers who do not even reside on the island. About twenty years ago she was entrusted with the most valuable garment she has ever handled: a wedding dress worth £75,000. “You have to be so, so careful with wedding dresses, with their sequins and different types of materials,” she explained. “If you do it wrong, sometimes the sequins can change colour. But that’s what I love. I love a challenge.”

Accepting these challenges requires confidence and trust, built by Sonia over years of familiarity. Some of her customers have been coming to her for decades, people she has seen date, marry and eventually return with children who now refer to her as “Aunty Sonnie”. One story in particular stays with her. As she recalled, “I had a gentleman come in last year who brought me his grandmother’s wedding dress that had been in storage for twenty years. It was completely yellow. And he came in and said, ‘my little girl is having her wedding, do you think you could sort this dress out for me?’ And I said, ‘look, as long as you leave it with me and you trust me, I’ll see what I can do.’ And do you know what? I managed to get that dress spotless.”

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”

*For readers mildly curious about the technical side of dry cleaning, here are the answers to those earlier questions.

Chemicals: modern dry cleaning typically uses hydrocarbon solvents or PERC (perchloroethylene), alongside detergents and conditioning salts used within the machines. Why are buttons removed?

Industrial dry-cleaning drums are far more powerful than domestic washing machines, so buttons are sometimes removed and re-stitched before and after cleaning. Sonia avoids this by covering them with protective silver foil, a technique she discovered in a trade magazine. How powerful is the drum?

Commercial machines generally operate with significantly greater agitation and solvent circulation than household washers, allowing them to clean heavy garments more effectively. Iron vs presser: a presser applies heated pressure through padded plates, allowing fabrics ranging from workwear to delicate garments to be flattened evenly without direct iron contact. Wet cleaning: despite the name, professional wet cleaning uses controlled water, temperature and specialised detergents to clean “dry clean only” garments safely. The technology was introduced commercially in the early 1990s as a more environmentally friendly alternative to solvent cleaning.

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

PEOPL E

Even for those who do not have pets of their own, the JSPCA often plays a role in protecting the island’s natural world. Jersey’s wildlife is one of the things that makes this place so special. When animals are injured or vulnerable, our team steps in to help. In the past year alone, 1,433 wild animals and birds came through our doors. Hedgehogs, squirrels, ducklings and many more were treated and cared for by our vets and wildlife specialists, with the aim of returning them to the wild where they belong.

It costs around £4,000 every day to keep the JSPCA running, and we rely entirely on the generosity of the community to continue our work.

During my first year leading this remarkable organisation I have discovered that the JSPCA touches the lives of Islanders in far more ways than most people realise. For nearly 160 years we have been caring for the island’s animals and supporting the people who care about them. It is work that sits quietly at the heart of the community, often unseen but always there when needed.

What Does the JSPCA Mean to You?

Words Pam Aubert, CEO, The Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

When people hear the letters JSPCA, they usually think of animals. But what those five letters really represent is something much bigger. They represent moments. Moments when an animal needs help, when a family needs support, or when someone discovers the joy of welcoming a new companion into their life.

For some Islanders, the JSPCA is something close to a fifth emergency service, standing alongside the police, ambulance, fire and Coastguard. Last year alone we responded to 3,138 emergency call outs. Each one began with someone spotting an animal or bird in trouble and caring enough to act. A hedgehog caught in netting, an exhausted seabird washed ashore, a frightened pet found wandering alone.

When the call comes in, our team moves quickly, ready to help animals that cannot help themselves.

For others, their connection with the JSPCA comes at a very different moment in life. Sometimes circumstances change in ways we cannot predict, and people are faced with the heartbreaking decision to rehome a much loved pet. It is one of the most difficult choices a person can make, and it often happens at a time when life already feels overwhelming. Our role is never to judge. It is simply to support. We understand how deeply people care about their animals, and we do everything we can to ensure those pets go on to safe and loving homes. Recently we introduced a new Direct Home to Home service which allows pets to move straight from one home into another without needing to come into the shelter first. It is a simple idea, but one that can make the process gentler for both pets and their owners.

Then there are the moments of joy. For many families the JSPCA is where they meet a new companion for the very first time. Last year we reunited or rehomed 99 cats and 18 dogs, alongside 83 fish, 32 reptiles and 96 small animals. Each adoption tells a story. A child meeting their first pet. A quiet home becoming lively again. A once uncertain animal settling into a new life where they are loved and cared for.

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As we approach our 160th anniversary we are also looking ahead. Demand for our services continues to grow, while many of our facilities are now showing their age. To meet the needs of the future we are launching an ambitious regeneration programme that will allow us to modernise and expand what we do. Our aim is to adapt to a changing world while staying true to the values that inspired our founder, Frances Wilson, all those years ago. Her vision was simple and powerful. That Jersey should be an island where animals are treated with kindness and compassion.

But the JSPCA has never been just about the organisation itself. It belongs to the island community. To the volunteers who give their time, the donors who support our work and the Islanders who pick up the phone when an animal needs help.

It costs around £4,000 every day to keep the JSPCA running, and we rely entirely on the generosity of the community to continue our work. Over the coming months we will be sharing more about the plans for the future, and we hope many of you will choose to be part of that journey.

If you would like to support the work we do, you can become a member at jspca.org.je or follow us on Facebook to see the difference your support makes every single day.

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BEYOND THE HIGH STREET

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

TINY CAT,

TOTAL AUTHORITY Percy, weighing in at about a kilo, has already established himself as the main character of Kyra Crous’ household.

With no regard for authority and a tendency to take on seagulls three times his size, Percy, at fourteen weeks old, is already bringing the chaos. He doubles as an alarm clock, jumping on faces at 6:30am, and has developed a love for crisps and dips as an honorary member of girls’ night. Below is a summary of their time together thus far, comparing their similarities and differences as they cohabit their new world together.

Percy Kyra

Breed: Ragdoll Age: 14 weeks Likes: Computer keyboards, his leopard-print ball and fake flowers.

Hates: Hairdryers, sneezing and his kitty litter flap Favourite sleeping spot: Kyra’s neck or lap.

If I were a human I would be: A clown in the circus Current obsession: Sleeping behind Kyra’s pillows Secret talent: Finding the smallest place in the world to hide and burrow in Most impressive thing I’ve done: Went on a plane at 12 weeks old

Breed: Data Consultant Age: 24 Likes: Sour sweets, charity shopping and Greek Mythology (hence Percy's name) Hates: Coriander, loud chewing and windy weather If I were an animal I would be: Baby elephant Current hyperfixation: Married at First Sight Australia, rocket lollies and Caesar salads Unexpected fact about me: I am a PC video gamer Most impressive thing I’ve done: Solved a Rubiks cube in under a minute

When did you realise you were about to reorganise your entire life around a tiny fluffy creature?

What does a typical morning with Percy look like?

The instant I saw a picture of Percy from the breeder. He has become my everything and I even travelled over 12 hours to collect him. I hadn't even met him at this point. I knew it was game over as soon as I had him in my arms for the first time.

Percy in three words:

Energetic, cuddly and chaotic.

You studied neuroscience and now work as a data consultant. Has Percy been the subject of any serious behavioural analysis yet, or are his decisions still completely unexplainable?

Percy has definitely been the subject of behavioural analyses, some of which include: "You weigh 1kg and are the size of my palm, do you really think that you can take on the seagull outside the window in a one-one-one match?". Needless to say, there's not someone out there who wouldn't be intrigued by how his brain works.

Who wakes up first?

Percy is the first to wake up. I have no need for an alarm clock anymore, as he's taken to jumping off the headboard of my bed onto my face, to assess whether I am awake or not. It's quite an effective method for waking me, much better than any alarm I could set.

He wakes me up with a jump onto my face. From then, he wants to play non-stop until I get up to feed him his breakfast. He then proceeds to have zoomies for about half an hour before crashing, flat on his back on his cat tower.

What’s the most chaotic thing Percy has done so far?

He tried to jump onto the lampshade of my ceiling light to get the feather of the dreamcatcher hanging from it. He closely resembled a flying bush baby animal mid-flight between trees. Although, his flight had a slightly different ending.

What is Percy absolutely convinced he’s allowed to do?

He is absolutely convinced that he is allowed to climb my curtains from bottom to top. This little man things he's the world's first free-climbing cat. When in reality, he just gives me a heart attack every time he does it.

Describe the ideal low-effort weekend together.

Our ideal weekend together involves lots of rain, blankets and cuddles. He likes to watch my social media feed on my phone and my TV-shows with me, while nuzzled into my neck and pawing at the screen. If any cats appear on screen, he tries to talk to them.

Dinner for two. What are you eating?

Salt and vinegar crisps for me, and then the salt off my fingers for him.

Animal Kingdom’s Choice for Percy:

“For a kitten of that age, we’d recommend focusing on a couple of key essentials to help them settle into their new home. A high-quality kitten food, such as Royal Canin Kitten, to support healthy growth and development, and a natural, non-clumping litter like BreederCelect, which is low dust, gentle on paws and ideal while kittens are still learning. These two basics give new owners a really strong start and help make the transition home as smooth as possible.”

Royal Canin C Kitten 36, £24.99 | Breeder Celect Paper Litter 25L, £17.99

C U LTUR E

BEYOND THE HIGH STREET Many of our island’s pet lovers are aware of Animal Kingdom’s town branch on Halkett Place next to the market, but for those willing to make the trip, or indeed make use of their free delivery service, the shop tucked away in St John’s trading estate rewards going the extra mile. Whilst the outside might look like another practical warehouse unit, inside is a miniature ecosystem of supplies catering to any pet type, lived in by people who know an extraordinary amount about all of them.

quickly learns, animal nutrition can be a minefield. Some dogs, it turns out, are allergic not to their food but to environmental triggers like dust mites, something that only becomes obvious after a vet visit and a bit of detective work.

Rows of feed and bedding stretch across the shop floor, with stacks for horses, aisles dedicated to dogs and cats and entire sections devoted to smaller companions like guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits. Wild bird supplies sit nearby, and poultry (a particularly popular category on the island) occupies a sizeable corner of its own.

“It’s a big part of what we do,” explained Kieran, the manager of Animal Kingdom, gesturing across the feed bags and bedding bales. Horses are another major focus. In Jersey, the logic tends to follow that if someone owns a horse, they probably also have a dog or a cat at home too, so the shop has gradually grown into a one-stop hub for animal owners of all kinds.

Still, the philosophy at Animal Kingdom is refreshingly straightforward. Rather than pushing particular products, staff focus on guiding customers towards what will genuinely work for their animal. “It’s not about what we think is best,” they explained.

“It’s about what’s best for the dog.”

Dogs, however, remain the undisputed stars of the show.

The range of treats alone runs into the hundreds, from small training snacks to more substantial options such as deer ribs, pig’s ears and pizzles. The dogs are always delighted, with some customers preferring to let them decide for themselves.

The boxes of treats that line the aisle allow dogs to choose their favourites much like selecting sweets. “They’ll hold something out and say, ‘What would you like?’” the team laughed. “The dog sniffs it and that’s the one.”

In recent years, demand has shifted increasingly towards natural products. Pet owners are paying closer attention to ingredients, with many opting for grain-free treats or raw feeding options designed to mirror a dog’s natural diet. The benefits, they say, can include better digestion, fewer allergies and more consistent energy levels. That said, as any pet owner

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“It’s not about what we think is best,” they explained. “It’s about what’s best for the dog.”

That approach seems to have helped build a loyal local following. Some staff members have worked in the pet trade for decades, and long-time customers often pop in as much for a chat as for supplies. Joy, who has been with Animal Kingdom for 28 years, has even raised £1500 for charity by shaving off her long hair in the shop, funded entirely by donations from regulars.

Practical services also help set the shop apart. Animal Kingdom offers grooming, free island delivery on orders over £30 and in-store dog tag engraving, where owners can choose from shapes like bones, hearts and circles and have their details etched on the spot in under five minutes. For reasons unknown, the bone design remains the bestseller.

The location is part of the charm, making Animal Kingdom in St John’s a destination in its own right. Rather than relying on passing footfall, it has become known as a hub well worth visiting, where advice is shared freely and every animal is treated like one of their own.

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

25 CELEBRATING

YEARS

Looks like you need a treat...

I‘ll head to Animal Kingdom St John to pick up some snacks.

It’s just around the corner.

ST JOHN Unit 1a Barette Commercial Centre La Route de Mont Mado Mon - Sat 08:30 - 17:30 Sun 09:00-13:00

ST. HELIER 32 Halkett Place Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 Sat 08:30 - 17:00

01534 722 177 | animalkingdom.je

AS K MAG G I E

Relationship and intimacy specialist Maggie Bain - also known as the Bare Naked Coach - has moved to the Jersey and joined our Gallery ranks to help local couples repair their relationships. She will be answering questions which she has received from you, hoping to help those with similar problems by drawing on a decade of experience in the field.

Q A

Words: Maggie Bain

Dear Maggie...

How much privacy is healthy in a relationship?

This is such a great question. In fact, it probably sums up the many reasons people get in touch with me in the first place. The question itself has so much depth and impact on a relationship, and yet it is often overlooked by couples—until drama and chaos enter their relationship.

When an individual makes a decision to begin a relationship, they often consider how to approach it. Should they go with the flow and see where it leads, or strategically plan? They may reflect on past experiences and find themselves being steered in one direction. However, in truth, there is a time and place for both.

Making conscious, joint decisions about preserving the integrity of your union is so important in establishing a firm foundation, including trust, respect, loyalty, and honesty.

This needs to be a mutual agreement, unique to each couple.

Laying it all on the table and discussing it honestly will minimize fallout later on. It is at this juncture that the wise old saying rings true: ‘Start as you mean to go on.’ Everyone starts on the same page, and intentions are set.

What is being agreed upon are boundaries, with the aim of achieving peaceful intimacy. Coupledom is being protected from the inside, and outside distractions have no access.

But are there exceptions?

“I always need to talk things through with my best friend— they’re my therapist!”

I hear this all the time. Couples discuss individually with their loyal, long-term friends. This works for a lot of people.

It can be helpful, as long as everyone concerned knows this is happening. However, it is rare to receive objective advice, and friendship dynamics can change over time, which can then be interpreted as ‘meddling.’ There are many couples who have learned this the hard way and now reach out for professional relationship help if they are unable to solve problems themselves.

But what happens if boundary lines are crossed, either by your partner or by yourself? Agreements are violated.

Things get messy very quickly; suddenly, cracks appear and can be felt within the foundation. This is because the privacy that protects intimacy has been replaced with secrecy. This may be hidden by shame, fear, or an attempt to avoid accountability, but either way, a gaping wound has been created. Damage has been done.

Having listened to many agonizing stories of betrayal, I have possibly heard every justification for holding a secret.

Despite the hole of deception getting deeper and deeper, the individuals lack the courage to come clean. Some hold onto them for decades and lead completely separate lives.

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Photography: Oliver Doran

Sadly, many lack insight into the outcome of their deception as their relationship implodes.

When my work with couples deepens and trust has been established, we move towards discussing what is happening in the bedroom. This is a sacred place, and every couple’s interpretation of intimacy varies. Fairly often, outside problems have infiltrated their private life and a barrier has developed between them. They haven’t been able to share this with each other, and it has caused tremendous distress. One of the many causes of this is body dysmorphia. Their body has changed—weight, stretch marks, scars, body-altering surgery— and this applies to all genders. They don’t feel or look the same. Their body image and sense of worth have changed, and they don’t know how to fix the problem. Thankfully, their love for each other and desire to find a way to improve or restore their connection has pushed them to seek help.

So it is with gentle sensitivity that I open up the topic. The therapeutic safe space allows for this delicate conversation.

This is rarely a quick fix, but rather a shift of perspective to allow a new sexual intimacy to be created. They learn new ‘how-tos’ and are often surprised by how small changes can make an enormous difference.

Once a mature and respectful relationship foundation is upheld, then life together can flow naturally. The healthiest and happiest couples say they talk about their relationship often with each other, essentially checking in to ensure everything is good. By doing this, they are addressing any issue as it pops up, nipping it in the bud, rather than waiting for it to snowball unnecessarily.

The answer for peaceful intimacy is to keep privacy tight and hold no secrets from each other.

If you’ve got an anonymous relationship question you’d like to ask, scan here to send it to us for a future edition > For Private Consultation at The Mind & Body Rooms, Charing Cross, St. Helier, or Zoom, message Maggie at maggie@barenakedcoach.com or visit barenakedcoach.com LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

SPRING’S FINEST

Manna’s Epic Brand Line-Up

Step into the new season with Manna’s standout spring collection, a carefully curated edit of some of fashion’s most exciting labels. Essentiel Antwerp leads the way with its signature playful prints and joyful colour palettes, while American Vintage delivers effortless, everyday style with its relaxed silhouettes and timeless essentials.

For those drawn to refined elegance, Vi.Ve.Re brings a sleek, sophisticated edge, perfectly complementing the bold Nordic spirit of Munthe and Baum und Pferdgarten, both known for their contemporary tailoring and confident design.

Spring wardrobes wouldn’t be complete without the easy versatility of My Essentiel Wardrobe, the vibrant femininity of Fabienne Chapot, and the relaxed charm of Lolly’s Laundry and Traffic People. Meanwhile, Haute L’Amitié adds a modern, fashion-forward finish with pieces that effortlessly transition from day to evening.

Together, these coveted brands create a collection that is fresh, expressive and unmistakably stylish. Don’t just follow the trends this spring, define them at Manna.

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Why should the IS Clinical Fire and Ice Facial be your next indulgence? The benefits are as compelling as the experience itself:

UNVEILING RADIANCE:

The IS Clinical Fire and Ice Facial

Words: Penny Downes at Pennyfeathers

In the world of aesthetics, where innovation dances hand-in-hand with tradition, Pennyfeathers proudly introduces the IS Clinical Fire and Ice Facial; an exquisite addition to her skincare portfolio. As the only authorised skin expert delivering this transformative treatment in Jersey, I’m honoured to present a skincare experience that merges luxury with efficacy, promising beautiful results with minimal downtime.

Imagine a facial that harmoniously blends powerful exfoliation with soothing hydration. The Fire and Ice Facial is precisely that, a two-phase treatment that begins with the invigorating Fire phase, designed to gently exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Following this is the calming Ice phase that alleviates, hydrates, and refreshes your complexion. This dual approach not only enhances your skin’s texture but also promotes a youthful glow that turns heads.

At Pennyfeathers, I believe in the art of personalised skincare. The Fire and Ice Facial is not just a standalone treatment; it is an integral part of my Signature Pennyfeathers Protocol Facial, meticulously curated to elevate your skincare experience to unparalleled heights.

My unique combinations of high-quality ingredients and advanced hands on techniques ensure tailored results that address your skin concerns while indulging your senses.

- Instant Radiance: Experience an immediate glow as the treatment revitalises and refreshes your skin.

- Anti-Aging Power: Delve into a world where fine lines and wrinkles are diminished, unveiling a more youthful visage.

- Ultimate Hydration: Feel the nurturing embrace of the Ice phase as it replenishes moisture and revitalizes your skin.

- A Tailored Touch: Every treatment is customised to your individual skin needs, ensuring optimal results that resonate with your beauty goals.

As Pennyfeathers continues as one of Jersey's premier skincare destinations, my vision is to cultivate a community that appreciates and embraces the art of skin health. The launch of the IS Clinical Fire and Ice Facial is not merely about offering a treatment; it’s about creating an unparalleled experience that enhances not just your skin, but your confidence.

Join me in this elegant journey towards achieving your skincare aspirations. Treat yourself to the IS Clinical Fire and Ice Facial, exclusively available at Pennyfeathers and let us together embark on a radiant path to nurturing your beauty.

Elevate your skincare experience, because at Pennyfeathers, I celebrate over two decades of commitment to exquisite skin and there are many more milestones ahead to cherish. Let me put the treat back into treatments with you very soon.

Suite 2.4a, Lido Medical Centre www.penny-feathers.co.uk

It is with immense pride that I reflect on my 25 years in the skincare industry, a journey driven by passion and a quest for knowledge. This year marks a pivotal milestone for Pennyfeathers as I commemorate 19 years of excellence in promoting flawless skin within our community.

My commitment to the highest standards of practice is epitomized by my Level 5 Aesthetic Practitioner qualification, the zenith of achievement in non-medical skin science. This expertise enables me to offer treatments that merge advanced techniques with an intimate understanding of your unique skin potential.

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

Get your legs beach-ready with Endovein, the easy way to get rid of varicose veins.

We offer the latest keyhole treatments for both cosmetic and painful veins, allowing you to walk out with a smile and a new pair of sea-legs.

Mr Sudip Ray is a Consultant Vascular Surgeon and specialises in sclerotherapy, radiofrequency and medical superglue treatment. Over 10 years in Jersey, 100s of happy patients, 1000s of treated veins!

For more information visit www.endovein.co.uk or call us on 020 3000 6900/07797 817964 “Brilliant efficient service, super friendly & extremely happy with results”

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

EXCEPTIONAL HANDCRAFTED KITCHENS AND BESPOKE CABINET MAKING Artizen Kitchens Ltd, Unit 7D, La Rue du Bechet, Trinity, Jersey, JE3 5BE

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

01534 727400

info@artizendesign.co.uk

www.artizendesign.co.uk

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Transform Your Smile for Less

Give your legs some Liberation DayCare!

Have dental quotes in Jersey or the UK mainland left you feeling discouraged? What if you could achieve the confident smile you’ve always wanted while saving up to 75% on treatment costs? Smiley Face Jersey offers a dental tourism service that connects Jersey patients with a leading clinic in Izmir, Turkey. The process is simple and fully supported every step of the way.

It will soon be time to dust off shorts, skirts and surfboards but a survey showed that 50% of adults feel highly self-conscious about their legs, and 10% actually choose to stay at home rather than travel abroad so they can continue wearing long trousers or dresses.

Words | Cliff Le Clercq, Principal of Smiley Face Jersey.

With Smiley Face Jersey, you benefit from the best of both worlds. Your journey begins with a personal consultation in St Helier, where you can discuss your needs and receive a tailored treatment plan. From there, the team arranges your travel, accommodation and VIP transfers to one of Izmir’s top dental clinics, where experienced specialists provide treatment in modern, high-end facilities. When you return to Jersey, you also have the reassurance of local dental back-up. The savings can be remarkable. High-quality titanium implants are available from £300, while premium zirconium crowns are also around £300. Beautiful veneers, which can cost as much as £925 each locally, start from just £300. Treatments also include professional teeth whitening, bridges, complete smile restorations, sinus lifts and bone grafts. Patients often save thousands of pounds while achieving exceptional results.

Beyond the treatment itself, many patients also enjoy the experience of visiting Izmir. The vibrant coastal city offers beautiful weather, excellent restaurants and fascinating places to explore, from modern shopping centres to historic markets along the ancient Silk Road.

Smiley Face Jersey was created to make the entire experience seamless and reassuring. The team has personally experienced the treatments, visited the clinics and stayed in the hotels, ensuring everything meets the highest standards of comfort and care.The journey begins with a free, no-obligation consultation in Jersey, where you can learn more about the treatments available and receive a personalised quote. From there, Smiley Face Jersey takes care of the details so you can focus on the exciting prospect of transforming your smile. If you’ve been putting off dental treatment because of the cost, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Words | Sudip Ray, Consultant Vascular Surgeon in Jersey and Harley St.

A common cause of this shyness is varicose or thread veins, which tend to get worse as we age, but are often tolerated due to a fear of undergoing painful or expensive procedures to correct them.

However, the advent of keyhole vein treatments such as daycase microsclerotherapy, foam or radiofrequency ablation means that patients can now expect a smooth, comfortable recovery, which is both quick and relatively inexpensive.

Microsclerotherapy: ideal for fine purple/dark blue veins often seen on the thigh or around the ankle. A compression stocking is worn for a week and the veins usually fade over the next couple of months, so plan ahead.

Foam: performed with the aid of ultrasound technology to identify and treat feeding veins beneath the skin, good for medium sized veins, and improves the results of microsclerotherapy.

Radiofrequency: an established and proven method of closing large leaky veins using walk-in, walk-out microwave technology instead of having to “strip” them under a hospital anaesthetic. We performed the first radiofrequency ablation in Jersey over 15 years ago and several hundred patients can now attest to its success in improving their legs.

If you are bothered about the impact of varicose or thread veins, or have aching or swollen legs, it may be worth attending our vascular clinic for a specialist assessment and diagnostic ultrasound. A liberating day with us may change your holiday destination!

For an appointment with vascular specialist Mr Sudip Ray in Maison Restorative, Lido Medical Centre please contact Carly on 07797 817964 or visit www.endovein.co.uk

Visit smileyfacejersey.com to book your consultation or call 07797 831 296 to find out more. Your dream smile may be closer, and far more affordable, than you think.

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

Creating Beautiful Boundaries

In today’s gardens, privacy has become one of the most sought-after luxuries. Whether it’s screening an unsightly building, softening the view of neighbouring windows, or simply carving out a peaceful retreat, beautifully chosen hedging can transform both outlook and atmosphere.

At The Hidden Garden Co, privacy planting has become one of the season’s defining trends and demand has never been stronger.

With increasing numbers of homeowners looking to create sanctuary-like spaces, mature hedging offers an immediate solution. Unlike traditional fencing, living boundaries provide texture, movement and year-round interest. Carefully selected varieties not only disguise unwanted views but also enhance the overall landscape, adding structure and depth to gardens of every scale.

The Hidden Garden Co has seen a significant rise in orders for both privacy hedging and statement trees. Their broad range of mature and semi-mature specimens allows clients to achieve instant impact, a particularly appealing prospect for newly landscaped gardens or redesigned outdoor spaces that require definition from day one.

Olive trees, too, are very much “in play.” With their sculptural trunks, silvery foliage and Mediterranean elegance, olives bring a sense of understated luxury to island gardens. Whether flanking an entrance, framing a terrace, or standing proudly as a focal point within a structured planting scheme, they offer timeless appeal. Each tree is personally selected from specialist nurseries in Tuscany by Tim Dolling, Manager and experienced horticulturist, whose biannual sourcing trips ensure exceptional quality and character.

The business itself has deep roots. Originally established over 30 years ago as The Fencing Centre, it has evolved carefully alongside changing garden trends. Thirteen years ago, owner Jules Walker launched The Hidden Garden Co as a sister company, inspired by her parents’ passion for plants and beautiful outdoor spaces. Today, the nursery showcases an exclusive and everevolving collection of specimen trees, shrubs, conifers and screening solutions, chosen for both professional landscapers and private clients seeking immediate transformation.

Tim has been instrumental in shaping the nursery’s reputation. With over 12 years at The Hidden Garden Co, his expertise extends beyond sourcing; he regularly visits clients’ gardens, advising on planting schemes that enhance surroundings while solving practical challenges such as screening and privacy.

Whether working with experienced gardeners or complete novices, his collaborative approach ensures each project feels considered and cohesive.

Looking ahead, a fresh delivery of rhododendrons arrives this month, adding vibrant seasonal colour to the nursery’s already impressive offering.

In an era where outdoor spaces are increasingly viewed as extensions of the home, The Hidden Garden Co continues to demonstrate that privacy need not mean compromise. With thoughtful planting, expert guidance and a passion for quality, even the most overlooked view can be transformed into something quietly extraordinary.

01534 865615 | thehiddengarden.je

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Effortless Elegance at Landes Interiors

Nestled in the picturesque east of Jersey, Landes Interiors is more than a furniture showroom, it is a philosophy of living well. Founded 10 years ago

by Jonathan and Manon Jones, the family-run design studio and shop has become synonymous with refined, functional interiors that are timeless and well-though-out.

Each season, their signature aesthetic unfolds in layers, warm textures, quietly luxurious finishes. The pair share an instinctive understanding of proportion and craftsmanship, curating furniture and accessories that elevate everyday living into something both functional and beautiful.

We visited Manon and Jonathan to uncover the principles behind their skillfull balanced spaces. Their advice is refreshingly practical, yet transformative. Here are Manon’s ten elevated design commandments for interiors that inspire, endure and thrive.

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1. Planning Is Key “People fall in love with finishes before they’ve considered the bones of a room,” says Manon. “That’s when renovations become expensive.”

Design begins with clarity. A considered floor plan, accounting for flow, light and function, ensures every subsequent decision feels effortless. Layout first. Always.

2. Give the Eye Somewhere to Land A room without a focal point feels restless.

Whether it’s a statement fireplace, an architectural staircase, or a beautifully composed seating area, anchor the space with confidence. Design needs hierarchy, a moment that quietly declares: this is the heart of the room.

3. Invest in Fewer, Better Pieces Too many small furnishings fragment a space.

Instead, choose generous, well-proportioned key pieces that suit the scale of the room. A beautifully made sofa or dining table brings gravitas. Smaller accents can then layer in personality, without cluttering the narrative.

4. Vary the Vertical When everything sits at the same height, a room feels flat.

Introduce visual rhythm through tall cabinetry, elongated lighting, sculptural plants, oversized artwork or full-length curtains that draw the eye upward. Height creates drama and drama creates presence.

5. Create Visual Balance If weight gathers on one side of a room, the space can feel as though it’s tilting.

Balance a substantial sofa with shelving or cabinetry opposite. Offset a heavy dining table with statement lighting above.

6. Define Your Zones When dining tables, sideboards and sofas line up without pause, the room loses clarity.

Group furniture deliberately. Use rugs, lighting and subtle shifts in colour palette to signal purpose. Multifunctional spaces should feel composed, not accidental.

7. Edit Ruthlessly Luxury is often what you choose to leave out.

Allow negative space to breathe. Surfaces need moments of calm. Thoughtful restraint gives your most beautiful pieces the attention they deserve.

8. Layer Texture, Not Noise Depth comes from materiality: linen against wood, brushed brass beside stone, boucle offset by leather.

Rather than adding more “things,” enrich the room through tactile contrast. Texture is sophistication’s secret weapon.

9. Honour Craftsmanship A home should tell a story of quality.

Well-crafted furniture ages with grace. Solid wood, hand-finished details and carefully considered upholstery bring permanence and soul to a space.

10. Fix the Layout Before the Décor “The magic of a room feeling amazing comes from the layout,” Manon explains.

Before cushions, before art, before accessories: stand in the space and adjust.

Move pieces. Test perspectives. When flow is right, everything else falls beautifully into place.

For those seeking guidance, Manon welcomes visitors to the St Martin showroom, offering advice rooted in years of design expertise.

At Landes Interiors, the goal is simple: to help create homes that feel grounded yet elevated.

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

Room With a View

There’s something undeniably uplifting about a space filled with natural light. A place where the boundary between indoors and out softens, where mornings feel brighter and evenings stretch a little longer. For many homeowners, a conservatory offers exactly that and more. With thoughtful design and modern technology, it has evolved far beyond a seasonal addon into a truly versatile living space.

For Creative Windows & Conservatories, a trusted local business trading since 1995, the conservatory has always been about enhancing the way people live in their homes.

What began as a small, two-person operation has grown into a team of experienced fenestration specialists with over 30 years of combined expertise, delivering tailored glazing and installation solutions across the Island. Their approach is simple: combine craftsmanship, innovation and practicality to create spaces that work beautifully all year round.

One of the most common misconceptions about conservatories is that they are too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Thanks to advances in insulation and glazing, that is no longer the case. Today’s conservatories are designed to be used 365 days a year. With intelligent insulation systems and high-performance glazing, these spaces remain warm and inviting in the colder months, while staying cool and comfortable during the summer.

Even the sound of rain has been considered, with modern roofing technology helping to reduce noise, turning what was once a distraction into a gentle background rhythm.

Design is where a conservatory truly comes into its own.

Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a Victorian style, the clean lines of a lean-to, or the grandeur of a gable design, each structure can be customised to complement the architecture of your home. With a choice of premium materials including PVCu, aluminium and timber, the result is not only visually striking but built to last.

Inside, the possibilities are endless. A conservatory can become a light-filled dining room, a peaceful home office, a relaxed lounge or even a vibrant playroom for growing families. Thoughtful finishing touches such as integrated lighting, decorative cornices and ceiling fans elevate the space further, creating a room that feels every bit as considered as the rest of the home.

Perhaps most importantly, a well-designed conservatory adds genuine value. It increases both the usable space and the appeal of a property, making it a smart investment. Plus it’s a brilliant bonus that planning isn’t needed! At its heart, a conservatory is about connection.

Connection to your garden, to the changing seasons, and to a way of living that feels lighter, brighter and more open. Get in touch with the team at Creative Windows & Conservatories to start your journey towards a space that works beautifully, every day of the year.

01534 744942 | creativewindows.co.uk

Energy efficiency is another key advantage. With improved materials and construction techniques, heat loss is minimised, helping to keep energy bills under control. Homeowners can also choose between glass and polycarbonate roofing options, allowing them to tailor light levels and temperature to suit their lifestyle.

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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ALAN MCCAFFREY HAPPY HENS I’ve been the owner of Happy Hens since 2013. I’m very passionate about the local poultry egg market and strive daily to make it the best it can be for Islanders and, of course, for my hens..

Tell us about your Genuine Jersey Products Happy Hens is the oldest family-owned free-range egg farm on the island, producing up to 8,000 eggs daily. Supplying supermarkets, restaurants, and wholesalers, the farm prioritises freshness, with eggs typically sold within 24 hours of laying, ensuring high-quality produce for consumers across the island.

What’s new/what’s coming up?

In the world of hens and eggs it’s hard to reinvent the wheel. Most recently, due to avian influenza outbreaks across the UK and Europe, we’ve faced a number of challenges at Happy Hens, despite no reported cases on the island. Transport restrictions have prevented the arrival of new birds, impacting supply. Now that restrictions have been lifted, our stock levels are expected to recover and shelves should soon be fully stocked again. We thank you for your patience and your support.

AIDA DE LA HERRAN I am a jewellery designer/maker; I design and make jewellery pieces by hand mostly with sterling silver, Argentium or gold, with or without gemstones, local beach pottery shards and sea glass that I find on Jersey beaches making them into wearable art. I work from my studio based in St Saviour.

Tell us about your Genuine Jersey Products My products are handmade using traditional silversmithing techniques, with attention to detail and quality. I started making beach pottery shards around 2014, then added sea glass and gemstones to my collections. I think they are so beautiful that I feel they deserve a proper setting. The pottery shards we find on Jersey beaches originate from the English-Chinese tea trade. Ships were loaded with tea crates in China and plates were used as ballast. On their return to the UK, ships would take shelter from bad weather around the Channel Islands with unfortunate consequences due to the rocky seashores. Those shards show up after high tide or stormy weather and it is a family tradition to collect them with our children or on our beach walks.

What’s new/what’s coming up?

Thanks to the pieces that I find it feels like every piece I make is something new and different but my newest project is a wedding collection I’m working on. I’m focusing on jewellery, accessories and gifts for all involved in the wedding: bride and groom, their parents, maid of honour and best man, bridesmaids, groom’s men, ushers, etc.

I’m creating pieces for everyone and I’m really excited to share it soon.

In each edition we feature some of Jersey’s creators and let them share their creative visions and handmade goods with you lot, our island consumers. If you like what you see, check out genuinejersey.com and hunt them down to support our local industries!

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

WE’RE BEEN MAKING HOUSE-HUNTING EASIER FOR YOU MONSTERS SINCE 2009

THE BEST PLACES TO FIND A PLACE IN JERSEY

W W W.P L A C E S . J E W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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“This isn’t about any issues with the current supply” Jeanette is clear. “The panel has said it’s about future proofing our drinking water for the long term and we’re committed to keeping it safe.”

“That includes everything from naturally occurring bacteria and minerals through to trace chemicals that you’d never expect to find,” Jeanette explains. “Our job is to look for them anyway and make sure they’re either not present at all or well within safe limits.”

Spotlight on PFAS

That approach is particularly relevant to the current conversation around PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) often dubbed “forever chemicals” because of their persistence in the environment. Used globally for decades in everything from household products, food packaging and make-up; to some alcohol, waterproof clothing, non-stick pans and firefighting foams, PFAS have become a hot topic in recent years, and Jersey is no exception.

A PURE PASSION

The new laboratory at Jersey Water is quietly purposeful.

Screens glow with live data, analysers hum steadily, technicians move methodically between samples, glassware neatly aligned, instruments quietly and routinely analysing, checking. This is where the Island’s drinking water is scrutinised, sample by sample, result by result.

“We know how much people rely on us,” says Jeanette Sheldon, Head of Water Quality. “Safe drinking water isn’t something you ever want to take for granted, and neither do we.” The results of this daily testing and monitoring underpins a record that few water companies can match. Over the past decade, Jersey Water has been one of very few water utilities in the UK to achieve 100% compliance with water quality standards, and the Island’s oldest registered company has done it twice, no less. In an industry governed by some of the most stringent regulations anywhere, it’s an exceptionally rare achievement, and one that should give islanders real confidence. “It’s hard to overstate how rare that level of consistency is,” Jeanette says, reflecting on more than 30 years’ experience working in the water sector. “Water quality compliance isn’t about passing a test once; it’s about doing it continuously, across tens of thousands of samples, every year.”

Testing beyond regulation

Behind that record lies an extraordinary level of scrutiny. While many people might imagine water testing as a handful of routine checks, the reality is far more complex. Jersey Water regularly monitor for around 100 different chemicals and 450 different pesticides. In fact, every year, they do nearly 60,000 tests to ensure the water reaching Island homes and businesses is safe, wholesome and of the highest quality.

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PFAS are at the forefront of political and public discussion this year for good reason,” Jeanette says. “They’ve been widely used in industrial and consumer products for decades, and now they’re being detected in low levels in the environment across the globe.”

In Jersey, the issue has been examined in detail by an independent PFAS panel, tasked with looking at potential contamination across water, food and the wider environment.

That breadth is important, Jeanette stresses.

“Water is just one part of the picture. Diet, packaging, household products: all of these contribute to overall exposure.”

The panel’s findings confirmed that there is no health issue with the current public water supply. Instead, their focus is on recommending long term environmental management and ensuring systems remain robust, as scientific understanding about PFAS continues to evolve.

“Crucially, the panel has confirmed that islanders’ tolerable weekly intake of PFAS, from all sources combined, is below recommended health limits” says Jeanette.

One important nuance in the Jersey context is that there hasn’t been any specific PFAS regulation locally. That is changing. New standards are coming, and Jersey Water has been preparing for them well in advance.

“This isn’t about any issues with the current supply” Jeanette is clear. “The panel has said it’s about future proofing our drinking water for the long term and we’re committed to keeping it safe.”

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

Airport hotspot versus mains supply

Much of the concern around PFAS locally understandably stems from contamination to private borehole supplies, linked to firefighting foam used at Jersey Airport.

“There’s a very clear distinction between this historical PFAS hotspot associated with the airport and the Island’s mains drinking water supply,” Jeanette explains. “Levels of PFAS in the St Ouen’s Bay area are a magnitude of difference to the extremely low trace concentrations that we detect in treated drinking water.

Jersey Water has been monitoring PFAS in drinking water for many years and currently levels in the public supply are nearly 70% better than UK and EU standards. When compared internationally, Jersey’s results are similarly reassuring: PFAS is now detected in most rivers in UK, across much of France and in many other jurisdictions.

Worried about your water quality?

You don’t need to be.

“PFAS is a global issue,” Jeanette says. “What matters is how it’s managed, and the trace levels that we currently detect are well within established limits. Even with that being the case, we will always look for ways to reduce even further. This includes ongoing investment in treatment processes and readiness to adapt as regulation tightens.

The science doesn’t stand still, and neither do we,” she says.

Filters, taste and everyday choices

For customers wondering whether they should be filtering their tap water at home, Jeanette is pragmatic. “The water is already treated and filtered before it reaches your tap. Any additional filtering is a personal preference, not a necessity.” For those who aren’t fans of the taste or smell of chlorine, there’s a simple solution. “Chlorine is essential. It keeps water safe as it travels through the more than 650 km of pipes across the island. But if you don’t like the taste, leaving water in the fridge will allow the chlorine to dissipate. Just make sure you use it within 24 hours.”

Perspective from experience

Public concern about PFAS and water quality is understandable, Jeanette acknowledges, but she urges balance. “Big environmental topics can attract a lot of commentary, not all of it helpful. We always encourage people to come directly to us if they have questions.”

Jersey Water, she says, would rather have a conversation with customers. “If someone is worried about their water, we want to hear from them. Transparency is part of trust.”

Jeanette’s confidence in the supply is personal as well as professional. “My family drinks tap water. I drink tap water. Why would we supply anything other than safe, clean water?”

For Jeanette, it comes back to responsibility. “Jersey Water is here to do the right thing by our customers and by the Island,” she says. “That means keeping water safe, keeping bills affordable and making sensible decisions that hold up over time.” The work around PFAS, she adds, sits firmly in that space. “Jersey has something many places around the world don’t have: a reliable supply of clean, good quality drinking water. Our job is to look after it so that people can turn on the tap without having to think or worry about it.”

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The successful bursary applicant will take part in a real-world interview process and then choose areas to focus on, such as supporting site surveys, system design, and helping with rooftop installations. It is practical work in a growing sector that is helping Jersey move towards cleaner energy.

They will work directly with experienced teams across surveying, design, installation and related tasks, gaining hands-on skills that go beyond classroom learning. The selected student receives a £1,500 bursary, with potential for further paid work afterwards.

Mark Brandon, Managing Director at SunWorks, said, "The bursary helps students, but the real draw is the practical, real-world work experience.

We want to support young people interested in renewables or construction. So much of university focuses on theory, but businesses are the ones driving energy change and building employable skills. Education and workplaces often feel disconnected, so we are trying to help close that gap – and we would encourage other local firms to do the same."

Pictured; Previous bursary student, Dominic Neal.

SunWorks Expands Community Impact with 2026 Student Bursary and Solar Charity Giveaway in partnership with Benest Estates SunWorks is accepting applications for its 2026 Work Placement & Bursary Scheme. The scheme offers one motivated student a threeweek paid placement this summer, working alongside a team that has installed solar on more homes across the island than any other.

In addition to supporting career development, the SunWorks team are on a mission to help shape a more sustainable energy future for Jersey. By combining expert advice, quality service and modern solar technology, they hope to help the island make better use of its natural resources and set an example for other offshore communities. But their focus isn’t just on clean energy. Through their Solar Giveaway initiative, SunWorks also supports the local community by donating a solar installation to a charity or social enterprise, helping them generate their own power, cut day-to-day costs and free up more funds for the important work they do.

This year, the team are delighted to announce that the solar giveaway, which launches in May, will be sponsored by Benest Estates. André Benest, Managing Director of Benest Estates, said, “Benest Estates is proud to sponsor the SunWorks Solar Giveaway for 2026. Supporting initiatives that give back to our island community is incredibly important to us, and this £10,000 fund is a fantastic opportunity to help a local charity or community project make a meaningful difference. We’re delighted to be part of something that encourages positive change and supports the people and organisations who work so hard for Jersey.”

The scheme is aimed at students interested in the environment who are considering degrees or careers in energy, construction, engineering, project management, or computer-aided design.

Dominic Neal, who took part in 2024 while studying Mechanical Engineering, said: "In 2024 I was selected for the three-week placement with SunWorks. I learn best handson, so I enjoyed helping with rooftop solar installations. The team was welcoming and let me get involved in system design, fault diagnosis through monitoring platforms, and more practical roof work. I was doing real tasks from day one. Now working full-time in Jersey, I recommend it to anyone thinking about construction, renewables or related areas – it gives solid industry insight you cannot get from lectures alone."

Applications close at the end of March 2026.

Interviews begin in April Easter Holidays, with the placement taking place over summer.

To apply for the bursary scheme, email your CV and a short note explaining why the opportunity interests you to info@sunworks.je.

Since 2013 SunWorks has completed over 600 local solar installations, building a reliable reputation in solar, roofing, and energy solutions for homes and businesses. The company remains focused on steady growth and on supporting new talent in the field.

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THE BUSINESS BLUEPRINT STARTING A BUSINESS INVOLVES FAR MORE THAN A GOOD IDEA. FROM PROTECTING THE COMPANY AGAINST RISK TO BUILDING A BRAND, HIRING THE RIGHT PEOPLE AND COMMUNICATING CLEARLY WITH CUSTOMERS, THE EARLY DECISIONS FOUNDERS MAKE CAN SHAPE A BUSINESS FOR YEARS TO COME. In this feature, six industry specialists share practical advice for entrepreneurs navigating those first stages of growth. Covering insurance, visual storytelling and recruitment, they outline some of the most common pitfalls new businesses face and offer guidance on how to build strong foundations from the start. For anyone launching a venture, these insights provide a useful starting point.

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AG E NDA THE BUSINESS BLUEPRINT

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VISUAL STORYTELLING

VISUAL

STORYTELLING

MARK ERRINGTON AND RYAN LANG Slingshot Films

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Why should businesses consider using film or video content as part of their marketing strategy from the very beginning?

Film isn’t just another asset, it’s the way brands can truly speak to people. In a world saturated with static posts and fleeting headlines, video is immersive, emotional and unmistakably human.

At Slingshot Films, we make content that doesn’t just inform, it moves audiences, inviting them into your story and giving them a reason to care. Using video, means your brand doesn’t just exist, it connects, inspires and lives in the minds of your customers right from day one. It’s not about being flashy; it’s about creating a foundation of trust and clarity that supports every future campaign, from social to broadcast, events to web.

How can strong visual storytelling help new companies build brand awareness and connect with their audience?

Stories are how we remember things, not facts alone. Strong visual storytelling lets companies show who they are, what they stand for, and why they exist in ways words alone can’t capture. Video combines movement, emotion, voice and atmosphere, making every message richer and more human. For emerging brands especially, this means creating moments that feel real, relatable and shareable, building awareness not by shouting louder, but by resonating deeper. We don’t just shoot scenes; we craft narratives that elevate where a brand started and where it’s going, helping audiences feel part of that journey from the very first frame.

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What mistakes do businesses often make when using video for marketing, and how can working with a professional production team make a difference?

One of the most common mistakes businesses make is focusing on the output rather than the process, choosing video based on cost or speed rather than clarity of message, audience understanding, and longterm value. With so many providers in the space, each offering different strengths, it can be difficult to know who is right for a particular project.

Working with an experienced production team helps cut through that. It’s not just about filming, it’s about asking the right questions upfront, understanding the purpose of the content, and guiding decisions around story, tone, and distribution. That experience ensures the final video isn’t just well-produced, but genuinely effective in achieving its goals.

Having done this for over ten years, we’re not here to shout about ourselves or impose a style. Our role is and has always been, to listen first, to understand your goals, your audience, and what makes you different, and then help you be seen and heard through our lens. That collaborative approach means fewer wasted resources, clearer outcomes, and content that doesn’t just look good, but genuinely connects and delivers impact.

Bring your vision to life At Slingshot Films we’re more than just a production company. We’re your creative partner from first idea to finished film.

We craft cinematic content that tells your story, connects with your audience, and elevates your brand, from commercials and documentaries to corporate films and aerial content.

Contemporary Films. Powerful Stories.

Get in touch today

slingshotfilms.co.uk

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SMART HIRING

SMART

HIRING

MANDY LE FEUVRE ASL Recruitment

What should new business owners consider when making their first hires, and how can early recruitment decisions impact longterm success?

Making your first hires is one of the most important decisions for a new business.

Early employees shape the company’s culture, productivity and direction, so thoughtful hiring at this stage can influence long-term success. Hire right first time. Doing so creates stability within your team, supports the onboarding of new clients and helps build a culture of loyal expertise.

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Start by establishing clear roles and expectations. Consider what you and the other founders bring to the table and where the gaps in skills and experience lie. Stay focused on future outcomes and resist the temptation to hire people who are too similar to yourself. There is no need to rush. The right candidates will appear.

Early employees must also be adaptable. In a start-up environment people often wear multiple hats and need to roll up their sleeves.

And while it helps to enjoy working with your team, do not just hire people you would like to grab a glass of wine with. Look for individuals who bring a perspective or skill set you currently lack.

Hire for growth potential as well as current ability. Look for people who can learn, adapt and feel comfortable with change. Employees who grow with the company often stay longer because they were early adopters of the vision. It is also worth considering whether you need to hire in the traditional way. Outsourcing, fixed-term contracts and temporary resources can give you access to professional skills without committing to a permanent hire too early.

What common recruitment mistakes do start-ups make?

Start-ups often operate in a state of controlled chaos. That is perfectly normal, but it makes it easy to prioritise speed over strategy. When you are passionate about your new endeavour and eager to get going, rushing a hire can feel tempting. But mistakes at this stage can be costly. Patience is the essence.

Another common mistake is winging interviews. If you are not asking each candidate the same questions, decisions quickly become based on gut feeling and vibes, increasing the risk of hiring “mini mes”. Start with the key competencies required for the role and write a clear job description so candidates can demonstrate their experience properly.

When is the right time to use a recruitment agency?

Every success is welcome in a new business, and every pound earned is precious – but so is every hour spent. If leadership teams are spending large amounts of time sourcing and screening candidates, that is time lost from building the business. A recruiter should not simply be a CV filter. They should be a strategic partner.

Many strong candidates are not actively looking for jobs, and recruiters can reach people who might never see your advert but would consider the right opportunity.

What people processes should start-ups put in place early?

HR is often an afterthought in a new business, but establishing processes early creates transparency and consistency. A clear onboarding process, a salary framework and regular one-to-one feedback all help create structure as the business grows. Culture should never be left to chance. It is not just a bacon roll on a Friday and drinks once a month. Culture is a set of decision-making principles. Define behaviours and expectations early so they shape the kind of business you are proud of.

Uncovering Exciting Careers With 50 years of recruitment expertise, we’re here to listen and support you whether you’re a candidate seeking your dream job or a client searching for the perfect fit.

vacancies@asl-jersey.co.uk W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

01534 500000

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FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS

MANDY LE FEUVRE

FINANCIAL ASL Recruitment

What should new business owners consider when making their first hires, and how can early recruitment decisions impact long-term success?

FOUNDATIONS

Making your first hires is one of the most important for a new MARK LEdecisions CORNU business. Early employees shape the Accelerate company’s culture,Accounting productivity and direction, so thoughtful hiring at this stage can influence long-term success.

Hire right first time. Doing so creates stability within your team, supports the What’s the most common financial mistake new onboarding of new clients and helps businesses make, and how can it be avoided? build a culture of loyal expertise.

One of the most common mistakes made by new businesses in Jersey, is underestimating the levels of cash needed to keep up with operating costs. As we are all aware, Jersey can be expensive especially when it comes to staffing, premises, and professional services.

When starting up, new business owners can easily overestimate how quickly turnover will ramp up.

Establishing and maintaining good relationships and a trusted reputation in the island is essential to building strong sales cycles but this can take time and effort.

When starting out, try to build conservative profitability and cash flow forecasts that provide for higher than expected costs whilst allowing for slower customer acquisition. Establishing a cash buffer early on or ensuring access to contingency funding can provide financial comfort for the business in its early stages.

It is also important to understand Jersey’s tax and regulatory rules. Failing to comply with laws, requirements and deadlines can be costly. Prioritise speaking to your accountant early on so you are familiar with how to administer Combined Employer Returns and GST, how to fulfil ongoing company obligations with the Jersey Financial Services Commission and how to create an itinerary of filing and payment deadlines.

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What are your top tips for managing cash flow in the first year?

When setting up a new business, it is very easy to focus on profitability and how much profit can be generated within the first year of trade. Whilst this is of course a key indicator of how successful the business is likely to be, it is often the case that unforeseen cash flow and liquidity problems restrict planned growth. On paper, a business may report healthy profits but if cash flow is not managed well, it can be a prime factor for not achieving potential.

Cash flow discipline should be prioritised from day one, particularly in Jersey where the cost base is high and many industries experience seasonal fluctuations. Maintaining a rolling annual cash flow forecast can be extremely helpful, as it allows you to track current and future cash inflows and outflows and gives a clearer picture of how much cash the business will have at the end of each month. It is also wise to segregate funds for larger recurring liabilities such as rent, ITIS, Social Security or GST so they can always be paid when due, and your bank may be able to assist by setting up a reserve account for this purpose. When purchasing larger items such as vehicles or equipment, consider spreading the cost over a longer period through a business loan or lease to reduce the impact on cash flow. Building a cash buffer for unexpected costs such as repairs, equipment replacement or inflationary price increases can also provide valuable protection. During the first year of trade in particular, it helps

to avoid unnecessary or non-essential spending wherever possible.

Raising invoices promptly and adopting fair payment terms with clients will help maintain a steady flow of funds each month, while negotiating favourable rates and payment terms with suppliers can further support cash flow. Finally, cloud-based software such as QuickBooks Online or Xero can streamline invoicing, expense bookkeeping and bank reconciliation, making it easier to stay on top of your finances.

Are there any tax allowances or incentives new business owners often overlook?

Whilst Jersey’s tax environment is relatively straightforward there are still areas that new business owners sometimes overlook. One of the main considerations when starting out is whether to set up a company or to operate as a Sole Trader. Both options can lead to very different tax outcomes for the owner and should be considered carefully when starting the process. The standard corporate tax rate for many local companies is 0%, however owners should understand from the outset, the personal tax implications when declaring salaries, dividends or extracting profits from a company.

Social Security contributions for both the employer and employee also need to be considered. In particular, the Class 2 Contributions system, for business owners, can often be an unexpected, costly surprise which should be factored into monthly forecasts.

It is also important to look into the possibility of grants, training support, or advisory schemes that could be available to new businesses through the Government of Jersey or local business bodies. Early advice from a your accountant or tax adviser is recommended to help you manage tax compliance and planning matters from the outset.

ACCOUNTING FOR JERSEY BUSINESSES Experts in financial accounting, management reporting, fractional leadership & business transformation Call for a free consultation

01534 780000

CONTACT US

www.accelerate.je Info@accelerate.je

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MANAGING RISK

MANAGING

RISK

LEANNE PRYOR Islands Insurance

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What types of insurance are essential for someone starting a new business?

Insurance requirements will always depend on a business’s activities, and advice should be tailored to its specific needs.

However, there are several key covers most businesses should consider.

While not compulsory by law, public liability insurance is strongly recommended. It protects businesses against thirdparty claims if they are found negligent while carrying out their activities. Some insurers offer cover from £1 million, but as a broker we would generally recommend no less than £5 million due to rising legal fees and settlement costs driven by inflation. In some cases, particularly when working with larger companies or acting as a subcontractor, contracts may require public liability cover of up to £10 million.

Employers’ liability insurance is also essential and is compulsory under the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) (Jersey) Law 1973. This applies whether employees are paid or voluntary. Insurers typically provide cover of up to £10 million as standard, usually as an addition to liability insurance.

Businesses should also consider protecting their physical assets, including buildings, contents, equipment and stock.

This protection can often be arranged as part of a combined policy alongside liability cover.

What’s the biggest insurance gap you see among new businesses?

Cyber insurance is one of the most commonly overlooked covers.

Many businesses hold personal data and must comply with data protection laws. If a cyber attack leads to a data breach, organisations could face regulatory fines or legal action from affected third parties. Cyber insurance can help protect against the financial losses and liabilities that may arise.Underinsurance within business interruption cover is another issue. This often occurs when cover is based on accounting gross profit rather than insurable gross profit, leaving businesses exposed if an insured event disrupts operations.

We also see gaps in Directors and Officers insurance. Many owners underestimate the extent of their personal liability. Depending on the company’s legal structure, directors’ personal assets could be at risk if they are held liable for decisions made while carrying out their duties.

How can a business owner understand which policies they truly need?

For many new businesses, understanding risk exposure can be challenging. One of the best ways to ensure appropriate protection is to work with a broker rather than purchasing insurance directly online. A broker can analyse the specific risks a business faces and recommend suitable cover, while also helping clients understand policy wording and the scope of protection provided. As a starting point, business owners should conduct a risk assessment and identify events that could disrupt their operations. Once these risks are understood, a broker can recommend insurance solutions that provide the right level of protection.

Your business is your priority, protecting it is ours.

From tools and stock to staff and vehicles, the right insurance helps protect the business you’ve built.

As an independent local broker, Islands compares cover from multiple insurers and explains the differences clearly - so you can choose with confidence and focus on running your business.

Request a quote www.islands.insure MJ Touzel (Insurance Brokers) Limited trading as Islands Insurance is registered in Jersey (No.2589) at Kingsgate House, 55 The Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE1 4HQ and is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (JFSC) under the Financial Services (Jersey) Law 1998 for General Insurance Mediation Business (No: GIMB0046). A member of the Islands Insurance Group of companies, which is wholly owned by the National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

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DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS

DIGITAL

What should new business owners consider when making their first hires, and how can early recruitment decisions impact long-term success?

FOUNDATIONS RYAN BOURGAIZE Fultura

Making your first hires is one of the most important decisions for a new business. Early employees shape the company’s culture,Accounting productivity and Accelerate direction, so thoughtful hiring at this stage can influence long-term success.

What’s Hire rightthe firstmost time.common Doing sofinancial creates mistake new businesses make, how can it be stability within your and team, supports theavoided? onboarding of new clients and helps Oneaof the most common mistakes made by new build culture of loyal expertise. businesses in Jersey, is underestimating the levels of cash needed to keep up with operating costs. As we are all aware, Jersey can be expensive especially when it comes to staffing, premises, and professional services.

MARK LE CORNU

When starting up, new business owners can easily overestimate how quickly turnover will ramp up.

Establishing and maintaining good relationships and a trusted reputation in the island is essential to building strong sales cycles but this can take time and effort.

When starting out, try to build conservative profitability and cash flow forecasts that provide for higher than expected costs whilst allowing for slower customer acquisition. Establishing a cash buffer early on or ensuring access to contingency funding can provide financial comfort for the business in its early stages.

It is also important to understand Jersey’s tax and regulatory rules. Failing to comply with laws, requirements and deadlines can be costly. Prioritise speaking to your accountant early on so you are familiar with how to administer Combined Employer Returns and GST, how to fulfil ongoing company obligations with the Jersey Financial Services Commission and how to create an itinerary of filing and payment deadlines.

Why should businesses prioritise cybersecurity from the very beginning, rather than waiting until they experience a threat or breach?

That’s a good question. In today’s digital‑first business environment, cybersecurity is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s a requirement. Businesses need to be relevant, and the most important metric of relevance is customer trust.

Keeping pace is a difficult task, but what you need to do is make sure you have the right expertise in place.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that cybersecurity is expensive. Everything is relative of course, but in

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the case of cyber-spend it is just about how wisely you invest. Understanding the investment alongside and inside your current solutions set is always key. You can’t just buy and rely on the next silver bullet. The world of attack and defence works at the same speed, so leveraging the baked-in protections you already have at your disposal is imperative.

Prioritising cybersecurity from the beginning makes it easier to achieve the best value from your current investments. In short, prioritise at the start and potentially spend the same or less whilst making sure you are in step with current threats and trends.

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

THE BUSINESS BLUEPRINT

How can strong cybersecurity practices help businesses build trust with clients, protect their reputation, and operate with confidence in an increasingly digital world?

Organisations rely on digital systems to serve their clients. Data safety is already the minimum requirement, so presenting a strong message about your approach can only improve trust in your brand.

Businesses are measured against the same standards as before, things like your operational continuity, but the measurements are now spread more broadly, so success or failure is much more visible.

In a nutshell, tell people you care, but action is the real proof.

We must ensure business is being conducted through safe and credible solutions. The solutions that you use to empower your business to thrive in a digital-first world is where criminals, who are now digital-first too, ply their trade. As criminal activity becomes more complex, the threats they pose and the impacts they have are increasingly visible.

Any type of breach impacts on reputation. In the past a company would have just been a victim, but now you share the burden of criticism. Make sure you are protected and present yourself to your clients as a trusted safe pair of hands.

What common cybersecurity mistakes do businesses make, and how can working with a specialist cybersecurity provider help them avoid these risks?

Not having the right expertise in place to make sure you train your staff and leverage your current investments, usually in IT, is the biggest mistake we see. Calling in the experts after the event.

In cybersecurity, mistakes aren’t just possible, they’re inevitable.

We consistently see that even well‑intentioned organisations with comprehensive policies in place still experience exploits.

Sophisticated criminals can fool the best of us.

In a world where threats keep evolving and criminals keep innovating, having a dedicated security partner and prioritising cybersecurity from the very beginning isn’t just smart, it’s essential. A security partner will help you understand the everevolving threats through the context of your business. They will demystify the jargon, maximise your current investment in IT, training, and compliance, so you can further invest confidently and wisely, if further investment is indeed needed. They will help you avoid necessary duplication in effort and investment and make sure you always put your best foot forward in terms of controlling your cyber-risks.

If a business owner could only implement three cybersecurity measures in their first year, what should they prioritise?

The best answer is to concentrate on stopping threats before they start. It starts with making sure cybersecurity is always part of the conversation. If you want to build end-to-end cyberresilience within your business, you need to make sure that it is a consideration at every juncture. When you think about marketing, HR, budgets, customer service, you must include cybersecurity. That way it becomes routine. It isn’t just the responsibility of IT or Compliance, it is core and an integral part of your success, or a major contributor to failure.

1) Stay ahead by staying informed.

2)Get trained by people who know how to apply training in context.

3) Maximise the value of the tools you already have. You just need a good translator to help guide you.

STOP THREATS BEFORE THEY START AI-Powered Threat Protection End-to-End Cyber Resilience Security-Driven Compliance

01534 711555 www.fultura.net

PROTECTING ORGANISATIONS IN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS, ACROSS THE PUBLIC & PRIVATE SECTOR Part of the

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C U LTUR E

Transforming Lives in Rural Kenya Standard Bank Offshore is committed to African growth, and its partnership with Ripple Effect strengthens the community systems that make that growth possible.

Mount Elgon, an ancient extinct volcano on the Kenya-Uganda border, is home to remote mountain communities whose survival depends heavily on one remarkable animal, the donkey. On its rocky slopes, donkeys carry water from distant streams, haul building materials, transport crops to market, and even act as ambulances when someone needs urgent help.

Here in rural Kenya, a donkey is far more than an animal; it is a vital asset that helps keep households running and livelihoods stable.

When a donkey falls ill, households can lose the ability to fetch water, transport crops to market, and earn income to support the home.

In this context, reducing poverty often begins not with new assets, but with protecting the critical resources families already have.

Anna‑Marie Egre, Project Lead in Corporate Social Investment at Standard Bank Offshore, reflected on her recent visit to Kenya: “What stood out to me was how the changes being implemented

by Ripple Effect are making massive differences in the community.

Previously, many families lived below the poverty line, choosing between buying food or paying school fees. Malnutrition was high and donkeys used to be abandoned in the market when unwell because families couldn’t afford to treat them.”

“Today, with knowledge and access to local veterinary support, those donkeys are healthy. Seeing that connection between humans and animals and how closely their wellbeing is linked was very moving.”

A partnership that supports long-term progress

Through its partnership with Ripple Effect, Standard Bank Offshore supports programmes that build resilience through community-led development. One of these is Thriving with Donkeys, which helps to equip families with livestock care skills, veterinary support, and training, so they can protect the animals that support their daily lives.

A healthy donkey improves productivity across the household. The time gained can be redirected into planting additional crops, joining savings groups for better financial health or supporting children with their schoolwork. Income earned from farming can be reinvested in homes, education and new opportunities that help families look ahead with greater certainty.

Ripple Effect’s model extends beyond livestock care.

Communities receive training in climate smart agriculture, soil health, nutrition and small business development, helping them grow diverse crops, manage water effectively and build resilience as weather patterns shift across the region.

“The results are visible everywhere,” Anna-Marie explains. “Families who once struggled to grow enough are now producing a wider range of crops year-round. They have stronger soils, better water systems and more sustainable ways of farming, even as the wet seasons become shorter and droughts longer.”

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Gender Equality and Women Empowerment

Across the communities, the transformation for women was remarkable. Many who once relied on their husbands for income, land, permission to work and managed families with low food rations, have now trained to become Peer Farmer Trainers and generate their own livelihoods.

Gender‑inclusion training has reshaped household dynamics, reducing conflict and strengthening family cohesion.

Several women shared that without Ripple Effect they might have had to resort to begging or other unsafe forms of work to survive. Today, with the training they’ve received, they are financially independent and confident about planning their futures.

Anna-Marie noted: "One woman told us she used to think bank accounts were ‘only for rich people’. Now she manages her own finances, runs her farming activities independently, pays her children’s school fees and is investing in her home. Seeing that shift was very inspiring”.

Before Ripple Effect, most women earned the equivalent of 250 KES (£1.46) per week, below Kenya’s rural poverty line of 1,050 KES (£6) per week. After joining Ripple Effect’s training, savings groups, and sustainable farming programmes, incomes rose to 1,200–2,500 KES (£7-£14.50)

A shared commitment to African growth

For Standard Bank Offshore, supporting Ripple Effect reflects a broader commitment to enabling growth across Africa. With a presence in over 21 African countries, the bank recognises the importance of long‑term resilience and local empowerment. Its support extends beyond Kenya to Ripple Effect programmes in Burundi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia. The focus is on development led by the people who live and work in these communities every day, using their own expertise and ambition to drive change.

The Thriving with Donkeys programme shows how one strengthened asset can create a chain of positive outcomes: a healthy donkey supports reliable water collection; water supports thriving crops; thriving crops generate income; income supports education, savings and long-term stability. And when women lead within this cycle, entire communities benefit.

The progress underway in Mount Elgon shows what becomes possible when communities have the right tools and knowledge to build their own futures. This commitment to shared growth and sustainable development continues to inspire Standard Bank Offshore as it supports families and communities across the African continent.

per week, moving families 10% to 150% above the rural poverty line and providing enough stability to enable investment in school fees, livestock, seeds and savings.

Standard Bank Jersey Limited is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. Standard Bank House, 47-49 La Motte Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 4SZ. Registered in Jersey No 12999. Standard Bank Offshore Group Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Bank Group

If you’d like to donate to this great cause, please scan the QR code below to visit the KindLink fundraising page. All funds raised will be matched by Standard Bank Offshore, up to the value of £10,000.

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“My students loved the Snorkel Trail, especially when they went in the sea. It met many of their sensory needs and provided an alternative experience, which could not be replicated in a classroom environment.”

Teacher Feedback

“I loved it so much, now I want to be a marine biologist when I am older.”

Student

Photography: Matt Jarvis

“I love seeing lots of marine life. It has inspired me to do more snorkelling.”

Student

“It was wonderful to see students, some of whom had been reluctant swimmers at the beginning of the year, delighting in the marine environment and beginning to explore the rocks and creatures.”

Teacher Feedback

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AGEN DA

ADVOCATES FOR O UR O CEAN

MOURANT AND BLUE MARINE FOUNDATION

International professional services firm, Mourant, tells us about its five-year partnership with Blue Marine Foundation, including the positive impact on many of the island’s schoolchildren. s part of our firm’s ongoing commitment to the Making an impact Mourant Ocean Pledge, launched in 2021, we A continue to support ocean conservation awareness initiatives in Jersey and the other jurisdictions and locations in which we’re based.

One of our key partners is the UK ocean conservation charity Blue Marine Foundation. Founded in 2010, the charity was established to address the major challenges highlighted in The End of the Line, a seminal book on overfishing that was later made into an award-winning documentary, bringing global attention to the crisis facing our seas.

Blue Marine’s culture is built around an entrepreneurial approach that brings together many disciplines, including media, technology, journalism, political advocacy, science and marine conservation.

Today, Blue Marine is actively pressing for the creation of effective marine protected areas across the world. To date, it has contributed to the protection of more than 4.5 million square kilometres of ocean. Its mission is bold: to secure protection for 30 per cent of the ocean by 2030; with its team working with determination to deliver on this commitment.

The power of education A vital part of Blue Marine’s work is inspiring the next generation with an understanding of the ocean’s importance and how to protect it. In Jersey, this takes the form of the Jersey Snorkel Trail Schools Programme, supported by Mourant.

Each year, Blue Marine instructors deliver sessions in local primary schools, combining underwater exploration with marine education. The aim is to spark pupils’ curiosity about marine biodiversity while building their confidence in the water. Last year, a number of colleagues from the Mourant Jersey office volunteered their time to support three of the sessions, and plan to do so again this summer.

Pupils begin by learning about Jersey’s marine environment, why it matters and how it can be protected. They receive a personal workbook to complete throughout the week, providing a valuable educational resource and enabling Blue Marine to gather insight into the impact of the programme. The classroom lesson is followed by a pool session with Jersey-based Bouley Bay Dive Centre, where children become familiar with snorkel equipment and learn safe and responsible snorkelling techniques. The programme concludes with a sea snorkelling session, giving pupils the chance to apply the skills and knowledge they have gained.

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

When the programme launched in 2022, it reached around 180 children. With our firm’s support, the Schools Programme has now engaged more than 1,000 children, with its popularity growing year-on-year.

Feedback has been exceptional and demonstrates the power and influence that education can have. Recent survey results show that 67 per cent of pupils left the programme eager to snorkel more, 52 per cent felt inspired to change their behaviour to help protect the ocean, and 78 per cent of teachers involved reported that pupils continued to discuss marine issues long after taking part.

Inspiring the next generation To mark five years of our firm’s support of Blue Marine Foundation, we recently donated snorkel sets to children at two Jersey primary schools.

The snorkel sets were gifted to over 100 Year 5 pupils in D’Auvergne and First Tower schools to encourage them to engage directly with Jersey’s unique marine environment outside of Blue Marine’s snorkel training.

Our hope is that this initiative is just the beginning, with each of Blue Marine’s schools’ programmes providing more access, and inspiring more children to explore and enjoy the wonderful natural environment surrounding the island. Their connection can only be a positive for Jersey.

“As part of our firm’s focus on environmental sustainability, we recognise the critical role the ocean plays in our lives and the importance of protecting it. That’s why it’s so important for us to continue to support the work of Blue Marine Foundation.”

Daniel Birtwistle, Jersey Managing Partner, Mourant.

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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C U LTUR E

MEET JERSEY’S

Disruptors

DisruptHR, the globally recognised event series, returned to the Channel Islands for a 7th time, and St Helier for a fourth time in March, inviting international keynote speakers and Jersey’s leading industry voices to the stage to confront the realities of people and workplace culture. With just five minutes and 20 fast-moving slides, there was no room to falter, as one misstep and you risked being quietly “banished” by a room of discerning HR peers. But who would possibly want to stay faithful to the status quo, when there’s so much to be gained from being a disruptor?

DisruptHR was far more than a high-stakes performance.

It was a carefully orchestrated blend of purpose and presence, where bold ideas replaced safe consensus and authenticity trumped corporate script. Think less deception and more truths that are shaping the future of work. As Jersey’s premier HR-focused event, it continued to champion a forward-thinking, slightly rebellious vision for the Channel Islands, one where traditional boundaries are broken, and fresh approaches to workplace culture take centre stage.

Brought to the islands by business support specialists Law At Work, the event delivered a top-tier programme of speakers known not only for their expertise, but for their ability to command a stage under pressure. Talks explored the rapid rise of AI, alongside evolving approaches to leadership and communication, three pillars set to dramatically transform organisations in the near future.

Cloaked in mystery, speakers from a range of sectors spoke about common workplace themes of neurodiversity, conformity, confidence and loyalty, imagined through a new lens of possibility and bold innovation.

Designed to energise, inform and empower, DisruptHR invited its audience to step into the inner circle, challenge the status quo, and play an active role in reshaping what comes next. Attendees were invited to be at the forefront of change, disrupting the norm to make room for excellence. No cloaks or underground alliances, just the courage to think, and act differently.

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Photography: Danny Evans

MEET JERSEY’S

Disruptors

Tim Townsend

HEAD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND CORPORATE CONSULTING, ALEX FORBES

Financial wellbeing isn’t something you can fix by attending a single seminar or downloading a budgeting app. Most of us make money decisions at the worst possible moments, when we’re stressed, anxious, or feeling overwhelmed. But if we really want to help people make informed choices, we need to start much smaller. It’s the everyday habits, the tiny shifts in behaviour, that quietly move the dial. Change your behaviour and you can take control of your financial trajectory. My role isn’t to map out a perfect financial path for someone, that journey is deeply personal. Instead, I see myself as the person who helps you get back on track, reconnect with your goals, and understand what your future could look like. We spend so much time looking backwards at what went wrong, when the real power lies in building an ecosystem that supports the life we want to lead. Financial wellbeing isn’t an individual pursuit. It’s a family conversation, a set of habits we form early, and a commitment to being accountable. When we treat money as a human issue and not just a numerical one, we give ourselves the chance to build a future that genuinely works for us.

www.wealth.alexforbes.je

Jo Powis

SENIOR COUNSEL, WALKERS

AI is helping us all to navigate complexity, but the sheer volume of information landing on HR professionals’ desks has reached an entirely new scale. The rise of large, and complex ‘mega cases’ has left many of us drowning in data, making it harder than ever to separate fact from noise.

Hallucinated authorities slip into drafts, tone becomes distorted, and content grows unwieldy. In the goldfish bowl of AI, a sense of injustice is amplified and you can swim in circles for hours without ever reaching the real issue.

From this data overload comes an increasing risk of fatigue bias, where shortcuts, assumptions and unconscious stereotyping can creep in. The real battle then becomes against bad decision making, where volume is weighted over substance and valid concerns get buried, not because they lack merit, but because of how they are packaged. Finding clarity now requires something refreshingly human, fresh perspectives, renewed energy and the discipline to actively challenge natural biases fed by data overload and overwhelm.

Face‑to‑face conversations that can cut through the noise in ways technology can’t. Keeping communication simple, resisting the urge to answer volume with volume, and accepting that not every question demands an answer. AI has made information abundant, but clarity scarce. Left unchecked, data overload clouds judgment and risks us losing the plot entirely.

www.walkersglobal.com

Heidi Gibaut

GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, LAW AT WORK

At Law At Work, we often say your behaviour today is someone else’s memory tomorrow. It’s a simple idea, but one that sits at the heart of workplace culture.

In environments shaped by trust, perception and influence, not unlike the dynamics we see in The Traitors, small moments quickly become defining narratives.

Leaders may believe they are being clear, decisive or supportive, but what their teams remember can be something entirely different. That’s why events like DisruptHR matter. They challenge us to look beyond intention and focus on impact and legacy. Conversations around AI, agile leadership and inclusive cultures aren’t just strategic priorities; they’re lived through everyday interactions, the meeting where someone felt heard, the decision that lacked context, the moment a leader chose curiosity over judgement. This thinking has shaped our Beyond the Advice series, where we move past policy and process to explore the behaviours that truly define organisations. It’s about creating space for honest discussion, challenging assumptions, and encouraging leaders to reflect on the legacy they create. Disruption doesn’t always come from technology or sweeping change. Sometimes it starts with behaviour, the pause before responding and the courage to ask a different question. Because if your behaviour today becomes someone else’s memory tomorrow, the real challenge for leaders is deciding what they want to be remembered for.

Gaelle Deschamps

FOUNDER OF G FORCE

Have you ever held back in a meeting, avoided an opportunity, or not gone for job because you didn’t feel “ready”? I see this every day in my work, we let fear quietly run the show. I often describe fear as the hidden CEO of our lives, shaping decisions and limiting potential. As an Executive Coach and Leadership Trainer, I sit with these fears daily, for myself and with my clients. They’re not weaknesses, they’re part of what makes us human. Even high performers and CEOs experience them. Beneath the hesitation are familiar worries; failure, success, judgment, rejection, not being enough or loved. Fear lives in the brain’s survival system. It’s useful to keep us alive but when it takes over, it shrinks us, stifles innovation, and holds back teams. Instead, I help leaders work with it and harness its potential to sharpen focus and elevate performance. Through training we explore practical hacks that can help you regain control. These include identification or as I call it, ‘name it to tame it’, gradual exposure technique, and tools to rethink the spectrum of success and redefine failure as part of the journey to success. Fear isn’t the enemy but it shouldn’t be in charge. Now, I’d love to know… what would you do if fear was not in charge?

www.gforceco.co.uk

www.lawatworkci.com

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Khalil Rener

FOUNDER OF RIDGEFLOW PERFORMANCE

In elite sport, the goal is simple, make the boat go faster.

Every decision, behaviour and standard links back to that one purpose. My role is to challenge leaders to bring that same clarity into their own teams. With a background in performance sports science, I’ve supported more than 100 organisations, from global corporates to public sector teams, SMEs and startups, helping them understand what drives leadership, performance and culture. I deliver the principles that turn a good sports team into a great one directly into the workplace. To evaluate this, I pull out what matters. What is your team known for? Are your standards and values clear? And if someone asked your people what it’s like to work for you, would you be happy with the answer? A major part of this is understanding your leadership DNA. We all recognise great leadership when we see it; trust, psychological safety, developing people, strong character, genuine interpersonal skill. But how often are your leaders intentionally embodying those behaviours, rather than simply doing their role? At the core of this sits emotional intelligence. Highperforming leaders are selfaware, composed under pressure and able to see the bigger picture. They understand their impact and use that awareness to build a culture where people feel safe, motivated and able to perform at their best. The takeaway is simple, be intentional, measure what matters, and act on what you learn. That’s how you build teams that perform at their best, everyday.

www.ridgeflowperformance.com

Kerrie-Anne Bizouran, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, POLYMETRIX

Welcoming a new recruit can feel a lot like going on a blind date. You’ve both been given curated profiles, a few promises and plenty of expectations, but will it turn into something lasting? In today’s competitive talent market, the difference between a quick hire and a long-term match, often comes down to your employee value proposition (EVP) and how clearly you live and communicate it. When businesses are desperate to fill roles, they can oversell a version of themselves that doesn’t match the day-to-day experience. That might get someone through the door, but it rarely keeps them there, especially key talent with options. Just like dating, attraction is easy to manufacture, retention is earned when the reality consistently matches what was promised. Your EVP isn’t just a recruiting slogan, it’s a talent strategy and a trust contract. It clarifies what you stand for, what you reward and what it truly feels like to work with you, which is exactly what attracts the right people. When it’s authentic and lived, great candidates join with their eyes open, stay for the long haul and become advocates. When it’s inflated, they leave fast. Avoid the flings, shortterm sparkle and long-term disappointment. Build an EVP led reality that matches the story you’re selling, so the right people will still swipe right, and choose to stay.

www.polymetrix.co

Emma Strack

Martin Buckland

FOUNDER OF EMMA STRACK CONSULTING LIMITED

In many organisations, leadership development still follows a generic model based on behaviours, frameworks and expectations of what leadership should look like.

This creates consistency and a level of standardisation that can be taught, scaled and measured. But we have AI for standardisation now.

Competitive advantage comes from human value creation, so we need to be precise about how it is created. If we never examine exactly how each person performs at their best, their full capability goes unused. Effort is often placed in the wrong areas, making performance harder to sustain and increasing the likelihood of burnout and imposter syndrome. My work focuses on making each person’s value explicit. It clarifies how individuals think, process information and communicate most effectively, where their strengths deliver the highest return on effort, and what sustains their motivation. This clarity changes how leaders operate day to day. Decision-making becomes faster and more precise. Time is used more effectively across existing responsibilities. Performance becomes more consistent, with greater return on effort. Communication and alignment with others improve. Strong performance becomes more effective, more efficient, more sustainable and easier to repeat. Development shifts from correction to optimisation.

www.linkedin.com/in/emmastrackconsulting

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

GROUP TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, LAW AT WORK

Disruption doesn’t recognise borders, and neither does the work we do at Law At Work.

While we’re proud to support organisations across Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man and the UK, the challenges facing businesses today, whether driven by AI, shifting workforce expectations, or evolving leadership demands, are global in nature.

My role increasingly reflects that reality. We’re working with organisations beyond the Channel Islands to share insight, benchmark best practice, and bring fresh thinking back to our local markets. Events like DisruptHR are a powerful reminder that innovation isn’t confined to one geography, it’s a collective movement, shaped by diverse perspectives and experiences. With this in mind we must keep our people at the forefront. Gen Z are already well-established in the workplace and Gen Alpha will, very shortly, be finding their feet in the world of work. How do we meet their expectations? How can we be sure that they will meet ours?

Long gone are the days of master/servant relationships determining how we work, instead the expectation is collaboration, respect and meaningful work. Whether working locally or across the British Isles, our focus remains the same, helping organisations navigate complexity, embrace opportunity, and build workplaces that are fit for now as well as the future.

The time for talking is over, the time for action is now.

www.lawatworkci.com

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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these days business magazines are mostly proMotionAL content. wouldn’t it be better to get your businEss’ messaging in bold print, amongst contenT people love?

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GALLERY

GRADU 8 C AREERS SPECI A L

Showcasing some of Jersey’s brightest stars from Jersey’s brightest employers W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Kate McMonagle Trainee Solicitor, Mourant

What made you choose to work at Mourant:

Coming from an academic background in international politics, I have always been fascinated by how different countries interact. Mourant’s strong international presence and the breadth of its work really appealed to me, offering the chance to work with crossjurisdictional structures and international clients. This feels especially exciting when you come from such a small island! From my first interview, the team were welcoming and knowledgeable, creating an environment that encouraged fresh ideas and dynamic thinking. They put me at ease to the point that I did not want the interview to end - that was when I knew I had found the right fit.

Age: 22 University attended: University of Sussex Course: History and International Relations What did you want to be when you were 8 years old: A spy Favourite way to relax: My favourite ways to relax are reading and going to the gym, lately I have been enjoying Pilates and Barre, which really help me unwind. But most of all, I love relaxing by spending time with my King Charles Cavalier, Buddy.

Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Samphire and El tico...I cannot pick.

Favourite Possession: My book collection - specifically my dad's childhood copy of 1984.

What professional training have you done:

I completed a 6-week law conversion course with Barbri, which gave me a solid understanding of the foundations of the English and Welsh legal system. I have now moved on to the SQE route and will sit my first exam in July.

What do you do on an average day:

Working in litigation means no two days are ever the same, especially at Mourant. At the moment I am working on a mix of international trust disputes and local criminal matters, which keeps each day varied. A typical day might involve assisting with ongoing cases through legal research, trial preparation and drafting or note taking at client meetings.

When the opportunity arises, I spend time in the Royal Court observing hearings or trials, which is always a valuable experience. I then study for the SQE in the evenings.

What is your next Step:

My next step is to qualify through the SQE route and become a qualified solicitor. I am also looking forward to my next rotation where I will be in the investment funds team.

What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?

To echo Oscar Wilde, knowing exactly what you want to be in life can feel like a punishment. Give yourself grace. There is no single set route into any career, and every experience you gain even those that seem unrelated, will strengthen the qualities that set you apart. Make sure to enjoy the journey.

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Brodie Walton Trainee Solicitor, Mourant

What made you choose to work for Mourant?

I was drawn to Mourant because of the culture.

Even before I joined, people spoke about the firm as somewhere supportive, approachable and genuinely invested in development. That has been completely true in practice and has exceeded my expectations.

The quality of work is high, but the environment is also collaborative, and as a trainee you are encouraged to ask questions and get involved. That balance of strong legal work and a positive culture was exactly what I was looking for.

What professional training have you done?

I completed an undergraduate degree in International History and Politics at the University of Leeds, followed by the PGDL with the University of Law in Liverpool.

Since joining Mourant I have been undertaking my SQE1 training alongside gaining practical experience in the Finance and Corporate team.

Age: 23 University attended: University of Leeds and University of Law Course: SQE Traineeship What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? When I was younger, I always imagined myself becoming a teacher. It wasn’t some grand, emotional dream, just a straightforward idea that made sense at the time.

I liked the thought of explaining things clearly, helping people understand something new and having a job where every day felt a bit different.

Favourite way to relax: Going to the cinema to watch a good movie. When I go to the cinema, it’s the one place where I can properly switch off from the world. I don’t go on my phone, I’m not thinking about work or anything else, and I can just sink into the film for a couple of hours. It’s the easiest way for me to shut everything out and reset.

Favourite place to eat in Jersey: My favourite place to eat in Jersey is either Noya Shapla, Quayside or El Gato Gordo, depending on what I’m in the mood for, and between them they cover all bases.

Favourite possession: My little B necklace that I always wear. My sister gave it to me for Christmas a couple of years ago and it has stayed with me ever since.

What do you do on an average day?

My days vary, which I enjoy. I usually review documents, draft emails or resolutions and assist with research or internal queries. I have been involved in areas such as share buybacks, continuances, cash box structures and trust company agreements, so my day often includes working on those types of matters. I also speak with colleagues regularly, attend meetings and use the firm’s systems to help keep matters progressing smoothly.

What is your next step?

My next step is to continue developing confidence and independence as I move through my seats. I want to deepen my technical understanding while also becoming more efficient and comfortable handling tasks with less supervision. Ultimately my goal is to qualify with the firm and contribute meaningfully to whichever team I join.

What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?

I would tell myself not to expect everything to feel familiar straight away. The learning curve is steep at first, but consistency makes a big difference. I would also remind myself that asking questions is not a weakness but an important part of training. Finally, I would say to trust the process: confidence builds gradually, and the combination of repetition, support from colleagues and exposure to different matters makes a noticeable difference over time.

W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

@GALLERYMAGAZINE

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Cara Williams Audit Assistant, KPMG

What made you choose to work for KPMG?

I did a summer internship while I was at university with KPMG, and I really enjoyed the workplace culture and the way the company is set up for trainees. It’s very much work hard, play hard, of which I have learnt the former is true during the busy season!

Age: 21 University/School attended: University of Exeter Course: Biological and Medicinal Chemistry What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? A doctor Favourite way to relax: A long walk on the north coast with a pub visit at the end Favourite place to eat in Jersey: On the beach with a barbeque Favourite possession: Not sure she’s a possession, but my dog Lana

What professional training have you done?

I have completed the first level of ACA exams and will be starting the next level shortly.

What do you do on an average day?

Usually, my day starts with coffee! It’s a nice split between analysis work, having client calls and meetings with the team. At KPMG, we work closely with senior management which means the team gets on really well. We also have a chance to learn a lot from more senior staff, which I’ve really appreciated as a new trainee.

What is your next step?

Training at KPMG opens a lot of different opportunities, so my next step is to finish my qualification and then see where it takes me.

What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?

You will learn more from one day on the job than you could ever learn in a classroom and ask questions - other people are a fountain of knowledge.

About KPMG

At KPMG in the Crown Dependencies, we are part of a global network of independent firms providing Audit, Tax, and Advisory services.

Based in the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey, we pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional quality of service to our clients and upholding the KPMG values. At KPMG, diversity and inclusion is part of who we are. Our team is a vibrant mix of talent from a range of over 40 nationalities, bringing together a wealth of perspectives and experiences. This diversity helps us think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions tailored to client needs.

Find out more at kpmg.com/cds

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LOCAL START GLOBAL OPPORTUNITY Where will your KPMG journey take you?

Apply for our trainee intake and become a Chartered Accountant with KPMG. Meet fellow students, build work experience, and earn an income as you study towards your professional qualification.

Find out more: kpmg.ws/Trainees2026

Ben Falana

Senior Associate, Advisory – PwC Channel Islands What made you choose to work for PwC?

I first learned about PwC at a sixth form careers day and applied for their graduate trainee programme. Although I chose to attend university first, PwC remained the career destination.

Its prestigious reputation and strong focus on training and development keep PwC high on the list of best graduate employers.

Age: 26 University attended: Bournemouth University Course: BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? A vet Favourite way to relax: Playing sports – football, golf and padel.

Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Awabi

What professional training have you done?

Supported by PwC, I completed my Level 1 exam of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) qualification. The CFA is considered the “gold standard” finance credential among professionals in investment banking, asset management and portfolio management. Focus areas include ethics, asset valuation, economics, equity/ fixed income investments, derivatives and more.

What do you do on an average day?

My job is project-based, so every day looks different. Largely, I work with asset management firms, helping them run their businesses more efficiently and effectively. My days involve lots of communication, such as team meetings to manage workloads as priorities change, and client meetings to understand their challenges and goals. I typically build reports and presentations, turning complex data into clear recommendations.

What is your next step?

My next step is finishing my CFA qualification; I’ve got two exams left. After that, I’ll weigh up my options. One exciting possibility is moving globally within the wider PwC Network. This is really encouraged here, and I work with loads of people who’ve done stints in the US, Australia and across Europe.

What advice would you give yourself as a graduate, considering the experience you now have?

I was anxious about starting out in a big firm and not knowing anyone. Looking back, I’d tell myself not to worry! I joined PwC with around 25 trainees from a range of backgrounds – an instant support network. I’d also say stay open-minded; I only discovered my ideal career path by embracing the unknown.

About PwC

At PwC, we unite expertise and technology so our clients can outthink, outpace and outperform within their industry. Our people are at the heart of delivering this service promise and bringing to life our brand code – we are bold, optimistic and collaborative. Explore the range of school-leaver, graduate and experienced-hire opportunities across our Assurance, Advisory and Tax lines of service right here in Jersey. Grow your skills and experience with PwC and go further in your career.

PwC. 37 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, Channel Islands JE1 4XA Email bci_recruitment@pwc.com or visit www.pwc.com/jg/careers

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We embrace an inclusive culture

so you can be you

Grow here. Go further.

Porsha Picot

Trainee Fund Administrator at Ogier What made you choose to work for Ogier?

I chose to work for Ogier because I heard so many amazing things about the company from a variety of people. When looking for jobs, I wanted a work environment that would challenge me, help me grow within my career and give me as much experience as possible. Ogier offers a wide variety of different programmes and provides good opportunities to gain valuable professional experience while obtaining qualifications. It is a very friendly work environment, you are encouraged to learn and you are always being supported.

Age: 21 School attended: Highlands College Qualifications: I completed the Health and Social Care course What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? Nurse Favourite way to relax: Reading Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Colleens for a breakfast Favourite possession: My cats

What professional training have you done?

I am planning on starting my exams in the near term, however, there is plenty of in-house training to work through for the time being.

What do you do on an average day?

My work is always varied and I have a range of different responsibilities and tasks. A large part of my day is processing payments, handling invoices and managing fees and investments.

I spend a lot of time communicating with clients and other colleagues through email. I have been given tasks of updating clients’ contact information and performing calls to confirm. I reallocate cash while ensuring everything is kept updated and recorded.

What is your next step?

My next steps are going to be completing my exams and professional training. I am focused on gaining new responsibilities and working my way up the career ladder over time.

What advice would you give yourself as a school leaver considering the experience you have now?

I would say don’t stress so much. Focus as much as you can and just do your best. Things will fall into place over time. Make sure you stay open to new experiences and trust the process. Make sure that you ask questions and understand why you are doing and learning something. Just remember that everyone is still learning. You are not expected to know everything on day one!

About Ogier

Ogier Global delivers Corporate and Fiduciary services as part of international professional services firm Ogier. We support clients across Asian, European and US time zones, and our reach is truly global. If you’re a school leaver, student, early career starter or career changer looking to explore finance and professional services, it’s an exciting time to join us. Keep an eye out for new roles opening up this year, or visit ogier.com/careers to discover our current opportunities.

Contact Lauren Cahill, Resourcing & Onboarding Manager +44 1534 514442 or email resourcing@ogier.com 44 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey JE4 9WG

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Flexibility to flourish.

Times have changed. Especially when it comes to where and when we work.

So we focus on being flexible. Balancing our needs, with the needs of our team and our clients.

It’s about teamwork and collaboration.

Wherever we’re working in the new landscape.

Be extraordinary. Be you.

Join our team ogier.com/careers

Legal Corporate and Fiduciary Consulting Beijing British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Dubai Guernsey Hong Kong Ireland Jersey London Luxembourg Shanghai Singapore Tokyo

AG E NDA

Paola Camara Santos Fresh Food Manager, Channel Islands Co-op What made you choose to work for COOP?

I was already working in retail and had heard so many positive things about the company — the friendly atmosphere, great benefits, and how much they value their people. Stepping into the Interim Fresh Food Manager role was a turning point. It gave me the confidence to take on larger responsibilities, from leading presentations about leadership to creating a full plan to develop my team. What I love most about Co-op is how much it feels like a company that cares — about its colleagues, its customers, and the communities it serves. It’s a place where people are encouraged to take initiative, where achievements are recognised, and where teamwork and honesty really matter.

Knowing that the work I do contributes to something meaningful makes it even more rewarding. Co-op isn’t just a job for me; it’s a place where I’ve been supported, challenged, and inspired to grow every step of the way.

What professional training have you done?

I completed the Retail Knowledge course at Highlands College, as well as IOSH Managing Safely and Food Safety Levels 2 and 3, which gave me the confidence to manage operations safely and effectively across the Fresh Food department. I’ve also taken part in many of Co-op’s learning sessions, from Critical Thinking

Age: 27 University attended: University of Carabobo (Venezuela) Course: Accounting What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? I dreamed of running my own business, just like my parents and my grandad did. I’ve always admired their dedication, independence, and the way they built something meaningful from the ground up. Looking back, that early ambition has shaped my drive and the way I approach my career today.

Favourite way to relax: Going on holiday is definitely my favourite way to switch off and recharge. On a day-to-day basis, I enjoy simple things like painting mandalas, doing word searches, or watching a good movie or series.

Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Places like El Tico or UNO Cafe & Restaurant are always great choices, but if I’m honest, my favourite place to eat is at home. I love being in the kitchen with my partner while he cooks, chatting and listening to our favourite music — it makes the whole experience feel special.

Favourite possession: I’m not particularly attached to material things, but if I had to choose, it would be my New Balance and Nike trainers. I never travel without them. Comfort is key when I’m exploring new places.

and Problem Solving to Communication, Assertiveness, and Recruitment & Selection. Each course has helped me refine my skills, approach challenges with clarity, and support my team in practical ways.

What do you do on an average day?

One of the things I love most about my role is that no two days are ever the same. My days usually start by checking the store numbers — sales, waste, and availability — and going through emails to prioritise the day ahead. I guide my team through their tasks, ensure procedures are followed, and review orders not only to keep the department running smoothly, but also to hit our targets and keep waste within the set percentages. A key part of my role is communicating with other departments to share feedback and make sure any issues or challenges are reported and resolved promptly. I also focus on identifying gaps in my team’s skills or knowledge and creating opportunities for them to learn and grow, helping the team continually improve and perform at its best. Among my biggest responsibilities are carrying out audits, which help maintain high standards across the department.

What is your next step?

Complete the CMI Level 3 qualification, which will help me continue developing my leadership and management skills.

Looking further ahead, I hope to take on larger responsibilities and contribute even more to my team and the business. For me, it’s about building on what I’ve learned so far, challenging myself, and continuing to grow as a manager while supporting those around me.

What advice would you give your younger self considering the experience you have now?

Trust the journey and be patient. Growth and learning take time, and every challenge is an opportunity to become stronger and more capable. I’d also say to step out of my comfort zone more often, the biggest lessons and opportunities often come from trying new things and taking on challenges that feel a little daunting. And finally, I’d remind myself to enjoy the process and celebrate small wins along the way.

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

Discover a rewarding career at

AGEN DA

your Coop

We’re hiring.

Working at the Coop is more than just a job. We are not only one of the islands largest employers we are a recognised leader in social goals and community led projects.

Find out more about careers at the Coop. Visit our website www.channelislands.coop/careers or scan the QR code.

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AC TIV E

A sunny Saturday at the Rugby Club is always well spent, now bringing even bigger names to our island’s pitches. Jersey RFC, recently promoted into the National Leagues, has taken a step up in competition, signalling a hard-earned resurgence for rugby on the island. For coach Myles, it’s a fitting reward. “I’ve been coaching some of the guys since they were 17,” he said. “This is their third promotion in four seasons, which is a fantastic achievement for any player or coach involved.”

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Photography: Danny Evans LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

ACT IV E

“There’s been so many people that have worked extremely hard to make sure that the club is in the position it is now,” he added.

“We’ve got some fantastic facilities. We’re in a really lucky position.”

Promotion was never taken for granted, with Myles admitting he didn’t want to believe they were advancing into the National Leagues until it was secured on the pitch. Having narrowly missed out the year before, the squad approached the final hurdle with a sharper understanding of what was required.

Behind the scenes, the effort was relentless.

“Many people only see the players turning up on a Sunday,” Myles explained, “but ultimately there’s a lot of hard work that goes on outside of match day.” Midweek training, strength and conditioning, and the support of a “fantastic medical team” have ensured that promotion is the result of a collective push across the entire club.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the wider support network. As Myles puts it, “without the sponsors, we just wouldn’t exist.” The club’s principal partner is CoinShares, a global digital asset investment firm, who serve as main kit sponsor and hold naming rights across the pitch.

turn over to meet tHe team >

up

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AC TIV E

"Jersey is where CoinShares was built, and we feel a genuine responsibility to invest back into the community that has supported us,” said Jean-Marie Mognetti, CEO. The Jersey RFC’s promotion is “proof of something we see every day on this island: the talent is here. It just needs people with the means to back it."

Looking ahead, the focus is simply to keep moving up.

“We just want to make the island proud,” Myles said, “and make sure there’s homegrown players that have access to the first team.”

“We just want to make the island proud,” Myles said, “and make sure there’s homegrown players that have access to the first team.”

Meet the team

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#6,7,8 Tim Grey

#9 Liam Rhodes

#9 John O’Sullivan

Back Row / Number 8

Scrum Half

Scrum Half

#11/14/15 Mark Boarer

Wing / Full back

jersey player FOR 5 Years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 9 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 7 months DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 16 years DEATH ROW MEAL

Full Chinese (Big John Style), Mums Sticky Toffee Pud

Ribeye Steak dauphinoise a lot of chocolate cake

Chinese

Spicy buffalo wings, ranch on the side

#11/14/15 Rory Drummond

#3 Tom Wilson

#4,5,6,7 James Guyatt

#11/14/13 Harry Cruickshank

Wing / Fullback

Tighthead Prop

Back Row / 2nd Row

Wing/Centre

jersey player FOR 2 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 8 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 5 Years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 1 year DEATH ROW MEAL

Tomahawk steak, chips, mushroom sauce and tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream

A classic carbonara

Loaded Monterey Jack Bacon Cheese burger, onion rings & fries.

Chicken Parmi

#4/5 Cam Keys

#4,5 Max Ayling

#1 Joe Ridgway

#9/11/14 Jacques de la Bat

Second Row

2nd Row

Prop

Scrum half / Wing

jersey player FOR 2 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 5 Years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 4 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 2 years DEATH ROW MEAL

Fillet steak with peppercorn sauce

Pepperoni Pizza to start, Massive Burger Chips BBQ Ribs on side, Hot Brownie and Ice Cream

Roast dinner with all the trimmings

Braai steak, chips, mushroom sauce and veggies

#11/14 Bevan Biggs

#1/3 Huw Owen

#15 Lewis Evans

#2 / 6 / 7 Evan Whitson

Wing

Prop

Fullback

Back Row / Hooker

jersey player FOR 2 Years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 2 years DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 7 months DEATH ROW MEAL

jersey player FOR 3 years DEATH ROW MEAL

Braai en Braaibroodjie

Christmas dinner, all the trimmings.

Five Guys

Beef roast dinner, Banoffee Pie

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

ADVERTORIAL

ACT IV E

A carefully curated team brings depth to the experience: ocean advocates Sophie Hellyer and Linzi Hawkins, creative Sarah Gabison, journaling workshops with Elizabeth Talbot and and mindful movement and shared knowledge from Emma Lapidus, Natasha Dettman, Janaya Wilkins and Susie Woods. Talks and talking circles with empowerment and confidence in mind. Moments of stillness are shaped by live piano and sound baths from Georgina Sutton to come back in tune with your true nature - each collaborator adding their own rhythm to the retreat.

SURF Sisters

DRIFT Retreats have been running in Jersey for TEN years now - Set against the wild beauty of Jersey’s west coast, DRIFT is redefining the modern retreat. Rooted in connection - to the ocean, to self, and to community - this surf and wellbeing collective offers a soulful approach to escapism.

This year we launch Drift Collective a six-month immersive programme for women seeking deeper connection to the ocean and each other In a world of constant digital noise, it creates space for real conversation, shared experience, and belonging. Through weekly surf sessions, coaching, and one-to-one support, it becomes more than skill-building - it’s a space to feel seen, supported and accountable to each other to meet our goals. Expect friendships, surf and outdoor buddies, yoga and fitness and confidence and mindset shifts - growth and connection extending far beyond the water.

For a shorter escape, DRIFT’s Mini Retreat Days offer a condensed yet powerful DRIFT experience. Held at the beach in front of Kempt Tower and guided by the tides, these sessions begin with a surf lesson / guided session before moving into yoga, meditation, and a shared organic local brunch or lunch bowl - leaving you grounded, clear, and restored. Includes juices, smoothies, wild health snacks, all boards, wetsuits and insurance.

At the heart of the offering for 2026 is our new and unique Retreat in collaboration with the Atlantic Hotel - Beyond Breaths, an immersive retreat - 18 - 22 October 2026.

DRIFT’s signature blend of surfing, yoga and nourishing food is elevated into something deeper. Days unfold with ocean dips and longboard sessions, followed by grounding yoga and seasonal meals. It’s the added layers and the people behind them that make it truly distinctive.

We are so excited about this unique Retreat at the Atlantic Hotel: Nestled within the Jersey National Park, it’s a restorative experience designed to help you slow down, move your body, and reconnect from within and is an investment in yourself, time for healing, growing, connecting and coming back with your cup overflowing.

A carefully curated Retreat the journey includes Ai Chi aquatic therapy, ‘deep calm’ pool breath-work, guided bike rides and hikes to explore our island and enjoy secret swim locations, sound baths, meditation, Yoga Nidra and intimate circles, every element is designed to restore and reconnect. Creative workshops and personal development sessions offer space not just to rest, but to reset. You can pick and choose the sessions that call to you and enjoy indulging in the uniqueness of this special location where the Atlantic meets luxury.

The Retreat is all inclusive and includes lots of options from surfing to skateboarding. The price includes all the meals at the Atlantic Hotel including Banquet and Buffet style three course meals, vegetarian, vegan and pescatarian options and there is a ‘tapas spa’ treatment included for every guest at the Spa. As founder Becky Coley shares, “Beyond Breaths is a more expansive offering bringing together an incredible team of collaborators to create something that goes beyond a retreat. It’s about connection, creativity, and a lasting reset.”

More than surf.

A place to connect.

A place to belong.

hello@driftretreat.co.uk | www.driftretreat.co.uk

Connection Comes in Waves

‘Between Breaths’ Retreat | Drift Collective | Mini Day Retreats www.driftretreat.co.uk | hello@driftretreat.co.uk W W W.G A L L E R Y. J E

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Precision Meets Performance If you’ve spent any time at Rock n Road, you’ll already know it’s a place where passion for running and the outdoors runs deep. As Jersey’s specialists in running and hiking gear, the team has built a reputation for combining expert advice with an exceptional range of equipment from leading brands including Salomon, Hoka, Puma, Adidas, Montane and Rab.

B

ut for the team behind the store, helping people find the right kit has never simply been about stocking great products. It’s about understanding the runner; how they move, how they train and what their body needs to perform comfortably and efficiently. Now, with the introduction of new science-backed technology, Rock n Road is taking that personalised approach to an entirely new level.

At the heart of the new process is Volumental 3D foot-scanning technology, a sophisticated system that captures thousands of data points from each foot in just seconds. The scan provides a detailed picture of your foot’s unique structure, analysing everything from length and width to arch height, instep depth and heel shape, even identifying subtle asymmetries between your left and right foot.

For runners, this information is invaluable. Rather than relying on general sizing alone, the Rock n Road team can now match footwear to the exact characteristics of your foot, ensuring the shoes you choose provide the best possible combination of comfort, support and performance.

Of course, data only tells part of the story. Once a selection of suitable shoes has been identified, the real test begins on the shop’s in-store treadmill. Here, runners can experience how each pair feels when in motion, assessing comfort, stability and natural foot movement while running at their usual pace.

The result is a more informed approach to footwear and technique, particularly valuable for runners dealing with recurring injuries, training for events or simply looking to improve their efficiency.

The Ochy analysis

It’s a simple but powerful step. Even shoes with similar specifications can feel completely different once you start moving, and combining the insights from the scan with real-world feedback helps ensure each runner finds the perfect balance between fit, feel and function.

For those seeking deeper insight, Rock n Road has also introduced Ochy, an advanced AI-driven gait analysis system that evaluates running biomechanics through motion capture video. By analysing factors such as cadence, stride length, ground contact time and joint alignment, the system provides a detailed picture of how a runner moves and where improvements might be made.

The result is a more informed approach to footwear and technique, particularly valuable for runners dealing with recurring injuries, training for events or simply looking to improve their efficiency.

The store now offers two levels of gait analysis. A Quick Gait Analysis, available free when purchasing shoes in store (or £15 otherwise), provides a concise treadmill assessment and immediate feedback on key running metrics. For those wanting a more comprehensive evaluation, the Full Gait & Biomechanical Assessment offers a 60–90 minute deep dive into movement patterns, running history and injury prevention, alongside tailored advice on technique, strength and footwear.

Combined with the team’s experience as runners, coaches and personal trainers, these new tools reflect Rock n Road’s philosophy perfectly: the right knowledge, the right equipment and the right support can make every run better.

To learn more about Rock n Road, their services and their latest gear, visit www.rocknroad.je.

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LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

ACT IV E

NEW AT ACTIVE. JUNIOR PROGRAMME AT LES QUENNEVAIS We are excited to launch our teen classes and racquet sessions at Les Quennevais Sports Centre. A fun, safe space for 14–16 year olds of all abilities to get active -– no experience is needed.

JUNIOR YOGA Classes are on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

JUNIOR BOXFIT Classes are on Mondays and Thursdays.

JUNIOR RAQUET SPORTS & JUNIOR SWIM SESSIONS

For more information or to book, please call 01534 449888, email active@gov.je or speak to a member of the team, the next time you visit Les Quennevais

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Chimaek (치맥) Words&Photography: Flo Balderson

For this issue, I have the opportunity to share one of my most cherished experiences - my trip to Seoul, South Korea. As many of my friends and family will corroborate, this city has taken up a large proportion of my conversation ever since. Trying to find a moment where ‘Seoul’ doesn’t come up has been a challenge. To put it honestly and perhaps a touch woo woo, it absolutely wasn’t my first time there. I am sure I have spent a life before this one, wondering the streets of Hongdae and working in Myeongdong.

F

or a little history, the birth of modern Seoul came into fruition after the Korean War (1950-1953), during which some of the city was destroyed. The 60s were the time for mass rebuilding, shortly followed by the global debut of the Olympics in 1988. From there, the city has grown and grown, becoming what we know it to be today.

For me, this was the first city I had travelled to where I felt like I was immersed in nature. Each district was built around nature, with masses of beautiful green peaks dotted around, available for barefoot hiking and

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hugging trees. There was zero litter, minimal crime and historical buildings from pre-war. I left with a lifetime supply of K- beauty, pictures, skin care, and of course, a big collection of recipes and food inspiration.

I have, in fact, handwritten ‘The Memoirs of Seoul’, so please do get in touch if you want to read those for the full, unhinged writings of my time there. However, in this instance, you are here for food. And that is where my food journey begins today.

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My husband and I’s first (and favourite meal) we ate in South Korea was Chimaek (치맥) Which directly translates to Korean Fried Chicken paired with Beer.

Everywhere you looked, this sign appeared. The origin of this cultural phenomenon started during the Korean War when American troops brought southern-style chicken with them. Korean cooks loved this new technique so much that they started to double-fry it and pair it with their signature spice. This was only accelerated during the 1997 Asian financial crisis when individuals lost their corporate jobs, and a large majority turned to starting small fried chicken franchises!

The usual selections were a soy glaze, gochuchang or garlic. This was served with some pickle options to cut through the richness - usually kimchi and radish. And then all washed down with a ice cold cup of Cass. Cass is a Korean beer which is highly carbonated, light and a staple for Chimaek.

For the recipe I am providing for you today, you might not find Cass on our island, so I have reached out to another company, which is a lot closer to home Stinky Bay Brewery, who have kindly partnered with me on this article. They have suggested the perfect pairing to be the famous “Beached Whale Pale Ale’ to refresh your salty palate.

I have worked tirelessly since my return to figure out the perfect fried chicken recipe, which you can make at home and with the limited ingredients you can find on this small island. Perhaps not the totally authentic version, but it comes pretty close. I hope you enjoy this little taste of Seoul, and maybe it will inspire you to go and taste this firsthand in (my opinion) the world's coolest city.

Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

• Serves 2–4 Ingredients • 2 chicken breasts, butterflied 250ml buttermilk • 150g cornflour 1 tsp paprika • 1 tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 tsp garlic salt • Vegetable oil, for frying • 2 spring onions, finely sliced Sesame seeds, to finish Kimchi, to serve Glaze • 4 cloves garlic, minced A knob of ginger, minced 3 tbsp soy sauce • 3 tbsp dark brown sugar 3 tbsp honey • 1 heaped tbsp gochujang Method Butterfly the chicken breasts to create four equal pieces.

Place the chicken in a bowl and cover with the buttermilk.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-based pan to a depth of about 4cm (just enough to shallow fry the chicken) You will know the oil is hot enough by sprinkling some flour into the oil and if it rises to the top and bubbles then its ready.

In a bowl, mix the cornflour with the paprika, chilli powder, black pepper and garlic salt.

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned cornflour, tapping off any excess.

Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden, crispy and cooked through.

Transfer the chicken to a wire rack to allow excess oil to drain.

Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, honey and gochujang to a small pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, until thick and glossy.

Toss the fried chicken in the glaze until evenly coated.

Finish with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds.

Serve with kimchi on the side and a cold beer.

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RELATIVE VALUES

CHRIS WITHAM & JOSH MORRIS With a theme like ‘expression,’ it felt important to highlight the chefs who weave creativity into every dish they create. For this issue’s Relative Values, we brought together two head chefs to share their respective views on the everyday details that make their food great, along with their guilty pleasures after a long shift. Given the close affiliation between the two restaurants and their standing as crowd favourites on the island, there seemed no better pair Chris Witham Chef Patron of The Bear and Christopher’s and newly appointed Head Chef of the Bear, Josh Morris.

Read on to discover who thinks smoked eel can “get in the bin,” who’s a secret fiend for Cup-aSoup and whether either of them backs their survival if they came face-to-face with a bear.

Photography: Danny Evans

FAVOURITE KITCHEN UTENSIL? A spoon. You should always have one to hand in a kitchen for tasting.

ONE HERB OR SPICE YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? Thyme. There is nothing like the smell of fresh thyme hitting foaming butter when basting steaks.

FAVOURITE THING ON THE MENU AT CHRISTOPHER’S AND/OR THE BEAR? The Christopher’s menu is basically a list of my favourite things to eat, so picking one from there would be tricky. I have always loved the simple dishes in The Bear pub, like our chipolatas with mustard mayonnaise.

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JOSH MORRIS

HEAD CHEF AT THE BEAR

FAVOURITE KITCHEN UTENSIL? Wusthof fish slice. It’s been with me forever now and gets used a fair bit daily.

RV

CHRIS WITHAM

CHEF PATRON OF THE BEAR & CHRISTOPHER’S

ONE HERB OR SPICE YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? Probably thyme. It just helps to elevate everything it touches.

Super herb.

FAVOURITE THING ON THE MENU AT CHRISTOPHER’S AND/OR THE BEAR? In the pub, I think the burger is a strong contender. Then upstairs, I think the country pork terrine we have on now is a solid dish.

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THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE IN THE KITCHEN? Under seasoning. Not tasting as you go.

WHAT VEGETABLE GETS LEFT IN THE FRIDGE LAST — AND WHY? In our house it is usually courgette. I love shaving them raw through salads, although I always forget they are there.

POST-SHIFT MEAL? My guilty pleasure is a shop-bought sandwich and a packet of crisps, or a Cup-a-Soup.

GO-TO DESSERT? I love desserts. I love the process of making a beautiful tart, I love the comfort of a crumble in winter, but if entertaining I love the ease of a posset, and it always pleases.

DEATH ROW MEAL? My wife’s roast chicken and all the trimmings… but my cauliflower cheese.

A FOOD YOU’D NEVER EAT? I can’t eat smoked salmon, partly due to working too much with it throughout my career.

FAVOURITE CHILDHOOD MEAL? I have so many fond memories of meals as a child. My mother was a great cook, but one of my favourites was cottage pie. I loved the sight of the bubbling casserole dish in the middle of the table as we were all served, and always burning my tongue as I was too eager to get it in my mouth. And I always remember a simple baked cooking apple sprinkled with brown sugar. At the time I thought it was quite bizarre, but I can still taste the purity of that simply cooked apple.

DREAM FOOD DESTINATION? America…. I crave fried chicken always, and I reckon those folks over the water will probably do it the best.

ONE CHEF YOU LOOK UP TO? I was brought up in the Ramsey era, so he was always the background noise of what it meant and looked like to be a chef. But personally, I really enjoy what the chefs from Fallow are doing — William Murray and Jack Croft.

Especially their content on social media, I really respect what they are about and how they are basically teaching their methods. I feel it helps, guides and pushes everyone to be better, and that’s really what it should be about.

IF YOU WEREN’T A CHEF, WHAT WOULD YOU BE? I always thought I would be a primary school teacher growing up, but my love for food took over.

PERFECT DAY OFF? If in Jersey, a lie in would be lovely, then a quick trip to the market for fresh bread and breakfast items. A walk around the western beaches is always good for the soul, then an early dinner in the sunshine with my wife Clare, and then an early night on the sofa.

MOST UNFORGIVING DISH TO COOK? Whole fish on the bone is probably the most unforgiving.

There is no room to hide — timing must be exact. Too far and it overcooks along the spine, too short and it won’t come away clean. It really comes down to judgement and control.

RELATIVE VALUES

MOST UNFORGIVING DISH TO COOK? Cooking times on proteins, especially steaks.

THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE IN THE KITCHEN? Rushing things. Most mistakes in a kitchen come from trying to move too fast, whether it’s skipping prep, not tasting, or cutting corners on technique. Speed comes with control, not the other way around.

WHAT VEGETABLE GETS LEFT IN THE FRIDGE LAST — AND WHY? Probably red onions. I always buy more than I need at home.

POST-SHIFT MEAL? Absolute sucker for Marmite on toast, with a load of salted butter.

GO-TO DESSERT? I don’t really eat desserts, but if I do it’s usually something like a tiramisu.

DEATH ROW MEAL? A proper sausage, mash & onion gravy with peas. Solid.

A FOOD YOU’D NEVER EAT? Smoked eel can get in the bin. It has a horrendous texture.

FAVOURITE CHILDHOOD MEAL? My mum used to make a properly good sausage casserole, usually finished with Jersey Royals and herbs.

DREAM FOOD DESTINATION? (COUNTRY) Probably San Sebastian in Spain — fantastic simple cookery done right.

ONE CHEF YOU LOOK UP TO? Phil Howard — just the absolute epitome of simple, flavour-driven cooking.

IF YOU WEREN’T A CHEF, WHAT WOULD YOU BE? I’d have probably joined the armed forces. I thrive on structure and routine.

PERFECT DAY OFF? A little stroll to the Good Egg for breakfast, and then a few beers in the afternoon with my girlfriend. Preferably in the sun somewhere.

YOUR SURVIVAL ODDS IF YOU CAME FACE TO FACE WITH A BEAR? I’d be knackered — got a dodgy knee, it would destroy me.

thebear.je / christophers.je

YOUR SURVIVAL ODDS IF YOU CAME FACE TO FACE WITH A BEAR? Hopefully it’s a gentle honey bear like myself and we can wander off to the woods for a quiet cider.

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NINE BY FIVE PANTRY Photography: Ascent Creative / Matt Sharp

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When the boats don’t come in and the Waitrose shelves thin out, the reality of our dependence becomes hard to ignore. For an island so rich in local produce, the reliance on external suppliers is stark. Yet increasing regulation makes it difficult for smaller producers to access supermarket supply chains. Without certain accreditations, which are still largely unavailable on-island, many farmers are unable to stock their produce in stores like Waitrose and must rely on alternative routes into the community.

of choosing local over what is readily available from largescale imports.

As Marcus Calvani, Co-Chief Executive of the Jersey Hospitality Association (JHA) the organisation behind the Delicious Jersey Food Festival puts it, empty shelves are “something we should naturally be terrified by.”

During Covid, he was asked by the Government to identify farm waste and find ways to turn it into food amid fears of shortages. The issue is not that Jersey lacks the means to sustain itself; it is that the systems managing and distributing what we already produce are failing. Until that changes, islanders will continue to overlook the value

As Marcus explains, the festival is “literally all about local produce, seasonality, loving what we have as an island, celebrating our local food and drink, our producers, our farmers, our fishermen and learning some skills to take home, while also eating, drinking and having fun for a weekend.”

This is exactly what the Delicious Jersey Food Festival, is designed to address. It was born out of the wider Delicious Jersey concept, moving away from polished chef culture or anything overly rarefied. Instead, the focus is on joining the dots between hospitality, agriculture and fisheries in a way that feels community-focused and genuinely beneficial, creating mutually supportive relationships across the island.

Saying you would like to buy local is easy; who wouldn’t want tastier, fresher, more nutritious food on their plate instead of something processed and packaged? But

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making that a reality in everyday life is something else entirely. Jersey produces exceptional food, but it does not always make it onto local plates. The systems around buying local remain fragmented, meaning small producers frequently sit just outside the realm of convenience.

Buying local also means adapting your preferences to support the wider food system. For example, as Marcus points out, if you want milk in your cornflakes, you should also understand why supporting Jersey beef matters, it is a natural by-product of dairy production, rather than relying on imported meat. The same logic applies at sea, where we tend to eat only certain species of fish while others are discarded.

Part of the challenge comes down to education, particularly in cooking skills and understanding how to make the most of local produce. Marcus, having grown up in a family of food lovers, was fortunate to learn how to prepare a wide variety of ingredients rather than relying on the limited range typically found in supermarkets. As he puts it, “it’s pretty damn scary that you’re taught how to use Excel at school, but you’re not taught how to cook and survive!”

That same ethos runs through the festival, creating an environment where people can learn without feeling intimidated by what they don’t yet know.

This year, the festival brings that to life through small plates from a wide range of local restaurants, producers’ stalls, cooking demonstrations and family-friendly education spaces. As Marcus describes it, the festival is “one of the biggest statements of our DNA.”

This year, that plays out through small plates from a wide range of local restaurants, producers’ stalls, cooking demonstrations and family-friendly education spaces “We’ve got a nine by five pantry,” he says. “There are very few places on Earth where you can stand within that radius and be totally sustainable.” Wine, cider, beer, seafood, vegetables, meat, dairy and baked goods, all of it is within reach.

The Delicious Jersey Food Festival, brings farmers, fishermen, chefs, hoteliers and producers together in one space, what Marcus calls a “foodie networking” environment. For visitors, it is even simpler: “I’m going to a food festival. I’m going to eat local. I’m going to eat really well, drink local, listen to live music, sit outside in the sunshine and celebrate this amazing island.”

Ultimately, as Marcus puts it, the festival is a chance to “be proud of our Island and what we’ve got.”

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TE C H

Killing the Keyboard Words: Toby Balderson, Electric Sheep.

When Siri was released in 2010, many prophesied the death of the keyboard. Voice would become king, and we’d all be directing our Star Trek-style computers with effortless utterances. However, Siri was underwhelming, never expanding beyond a basic set of commands that it frequently misunderstood.

“I’m sorry, I can’t do that yet, but I found this on the web.” - no thanks.

websites using only natural language prompts. I’ve been churning out dashboards, animations, and portals just by describing them. I had an upcoming ski trip (I know, oh so Jersey) but also was managing a frightening workload at the same time. Frolicking in snowy mountains for a week didn’t feel entirely sensible, but this trifecta of tech and circumstance gave me an idea: What if I could code on a ski lift using only my voice?

Fast forward to today, and I recently came across WisprFlow (not sponsored, unfortunately). They provide an AI speechto-text service that is mind-bogglingly good. You can talk, or whisper like a psycho, and it dictates your voice into any text interface on your computer. It cleans up your ums and ahs, recognises when you’ve misspoken, and nails difficult names. It is the technology Siri should have been.

If you told someone in the 90s that “work” could look like talking to a phone on a mountain, and that you’d be 100x more productive than someone punching keys into a beige box, they’d scarcely believe you. To test the concept, I decided to develop a ski-lunch planning app. A classic middle-class quandary: when you arrive at a new resort, you don’t know where the good snow is or where the best fondue is hidden. I wanted to enter the resort, ski ability, and food cravings, and have the application plan the itinerary and book the table.

Lately, I’ve also been “vibe coding.” For the uninitiated, this is the process of using AI to build apps and

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T ECH

Ski Lift 1: The Concept

I laid out the requirements and asked for designs. By the time I reached the top, the AI had given me four different concepts. I chose one, expanded a few features, and told the agent to start building.

Ski Lifts 2-5: The Build

Following a few more iterations, all delivered via chair lifts, I had a functioning app that could plan a day out for every major resort in Europe.

Frighteningly easy and I didn’t type a word.

Not to be outdone, a friend of mine decided to make my lunch-app experiment look like child’s play. He had OpenClaw running on his laptop back at our base, and was using Telegram as a remote-control for his AI. Between runs, he was performing heavy-duty data migrations and building out a highly scalable infrastructure for a new site, all via his phone. It’s one thing to prompt a design; it’s another to architect a backend whilst swinging 30 feet above the ground.

You can talk, or whisper like a psycho, and it dictates your voice into any text interface on your computer. It cleans up your ums and ahs, recognises when you’ve misspoken, and nails difficult names. It is the technology Siri should have been.

I will admit, the “social signaling” of voice-messaging an AI bot doesn’t translate perfectly to public spaces. Tapping away at a keyboard is socially acceptable; whispering to your phone while suspended 30 feet in the air makes you look like you’re losing the plot.

However, whilst whispering removes you from immediate social interaction, the speed of it is liberating. You finish your task so much faster that you can return to being present sooner. Plus, not having to stare at a glowing screen in the sun is a revelation.

I’d encourage you to try it - maybe at home first so you don’t get bullied by your colleagues for whispering at your computer as if you’re trying to enchant it to life - I think you’ll find yourself stepping into what feels like the future of work. Faster, mobile, less screentime. That has to be a good thing.

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T E N Y E A R S O F R A L LY I N G AC R O S S E U R O P E R A I S I N G M O N E Y F O R LO C A L C AU S E S 9

JER SEY > MILAN

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THE MATRIX

KIM LE BRUN ADVANCED SKIN & BEAUTY

THE LASER CENTRE

Experience the brilliance of Bonita Hair & Beauty Salon, where style meets elegance. Our expert stylists and beauty professionals deliver exceptional haircuts, colour, facials, and more, tailored to enhance your natural beauty. Relax in our luxurious, welcoming space and leave feeling radiant, confident, and refreshed. Bonita is your go-to destination for flawless beauty and personalised haircare.

Julie Naidu RGN LNP BACN BMLA. Julie has been specialising in facial aesthetics for 28 years which has been a lifelong interest in the positive enhancement of physical and mental well-being. We only use the best market leading products to treat frowns, wrinkles, face, neck and hand rejuvenation and so much more. So if you need a little freshening up after summer, then please get in touch and trust in experience.

KIM LE BRUN 07797 719700. kimlebrun.je kim@kimlebrun.je @ Kimlebrun.skin

BONITA

THE LASER CENTRE Lido Medical Centre (2.4 B)

TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT £149*

Hotel De France, St Saviours Road

01534 720081 bonitahairandbeauty.com

PENNYFEATHERS

We all want nice white teeth and professional home whitening is a great way to improve your smile in a safe and quick way. Your home whitening kit will consist of custommade bleaching trays and 2 syringes of professional whitening gel. Book your appointment online. *Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more information www.paradedentalpractice.co.uk

Pennyfeathers is an aesthetic skin specialist clinic based at the Lido Medical Centre, offering advanced, resultsdriven treatments in a calm, clinical setting. Known for the signature Pennyfeathers Protocol Facial and IvanMed Microneedling, Penny combines expertise with personalised care to transform skin health. Treatments also include electrolysis and FreezePen Cryosurgery for unwanted hair and benign skin lesions.

THE PARADE DENTAL PRACTICE 24 The Parade, St. Helier

PENNYFEATHERS, 2.4a Lido Medical Centre, St Saviour Penny@penny-feathers.co.uk www.penny-feathers.co.uk

01534 725520

admin@paradedentalpractice.co.uk

NAUTILUS

THE GOOSEBERRY BUSH

01534 888272

info@thelasercentrejersey.co.uk www.thelasercentrejersey.co.uk

MORE THAN A HAIRCUT...

Lads’n’Dads Barbers isn’t just a haircut, it’s your new favourite hangout. Whether it’s your little man’s first trim or you’re after a fresh fade, our friendly barbers have you covered. From modern cuts to timeless classics, sit back, have a laugh, and leave looking sharp. Great cuts, great vibes, and a place where everyone’s welcome. And guess what? We’re growing! If you’ve got the skills, the banter, and the passion for great hair, we’d love you to join our team. See you in the chair – or maybe behind it!

LADS’N’DADS

1 Wharf Street, St Helier

ladsndads.co.uk

THE BEAUTY HOUSE

Step into Nautilus, a brilliant boutique where timeless elegance meets modern flair. From effortlessly chic staples to head-turning statement pieces, every item is thoughtfully curated with love and a keen eye for style.

Expect impeccable tailoring, distinctive design, and luxurious fabrics; all chosen to flatter and inspire. Nautilus is brimming with unique finds to elevate your wardrobe.

The Gooseberry Bush is a unique Family-fun business of 36+ years! We enjoy stocking lagenlook, fun & comfortable clothing for all shapes & sizes, in bright bold designs for Summer & Winter. Jewellery, scarves & footwear is blended with the fashion per season. The Interiors area boasts a wide selection of affordable linen & cotton cushions, throws & rugs to compliment any home and scents to match. Any Furniture can be collected & taken straightaway in the back of a car! Service with a Smile!

Discover our award-winning boutique salon situated in a rural, tranquil location, offering privacy and parking. The salon is praised by clients for its peaceful surroundings, expert beauty practitioners and bespoke beauty formulas.

Services include; Microblading for Eyebrows, SemiPermanent Eyeliner, SylfirmX Skin Rejuvenation, Pevonia Skincare, Intimate Hot Waxing, Manicures & Pedicures, Massage and Reflexology.

NAUTLILUS 39 Don St, St Helier

THE GOOSEBERRY BUSH Rue de Haut de l’Orme, Trinity (just behind Rondels Farm Shop)

THE BEAUTY HOUSE 4 Roc Annick, La Rue es Bouefs, St Mary

01534 617976

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BONITA

Give your skin back its snap at Kim Le Brun Advanced Skin & Beauty. Experience unrivalled results for youngerlooking, radiant skin with our advanced facial offerings, Excelight IPL machine, and professional skincare ranges.

Relax in a calm environment whilst our professional treatments are tailored just for you. Unwind, refresh and recharge – it’s all about you and your skin’s best self!

01534 726224

01534 789000

www.thebeautyhouse.je

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THE MATRIX

THE COLOUR ROOMS

MADHATTER

WINDMADNESS

Come and explore The Colour Rooms Art Gallery and Studios... A welcoming and vibrant creative hub in the heart of Beaumont at the roundabout. Discover monthly inspiring exhibitions, sign up for art classes led by experts in their field, connect with others and develop your creativity in our relaxing and beautiful gallery. Find the perfect piece of art for your home or workspace to add individuality and focus. At The Colour Rooms, colour is not just a theme, it is at the heart of everything we do. Come and be inspired.

Dive into the weird, wild, and wonderful world of Madhatter, Jersey’s original surf and skate shop since 2013. From street to sea, we’ve got everything you need to ride with style. Based in St Helier and St Brelade, we’re all about keeping it genuine, original, and fun - for a life lived well. We stock the world’s best brands for boards, threads, and vibes – welcome to Madhatter. www.thecolourrooms.co.uk

Windmadness is your ultimate online destination for adventure sports. Discover quality brands for Kitesurfing, Wakeboarding, Wingfoiling, Paddle Boarding and more.

Whether you’re chasing waves, harnessing with the wind, or exploring calm waters, we’ve got all the equipment you need. Trusted brands, expert advice, friendly and passionate team, everything to fuel your passion for the ocean.

THE COLOUR ROOMS La Route de la Haule, Beaumont

MADHATTER.JE 41 Halkett Street, St. Helier

thecolourrooms.art@gmail.com

La Route des Genets, St. Brelade

WINDMADNESS 486074 / 07700324294 windmadness.com info@windmadness.com

07829 908090

www.thecolourrooms.co.uk

RUN - HIKE - EXPLORE

Get moving with Rock’n’Road, your ultimate destination for all things running, hiking and exploring. We’ve got the gear to fuel your passion. For all runners from beginners to marathon and beyond we have top-tier running shoes, apparel and gear that go the distance. Hikers can find the best kit, from waterproofs to camping stoves. Expert advice, unbeatable selection, and performance-driven products make Rock’n’Road your go-to shop for all your adventures.

ROCK N ROAD RUN CO Unit 7, Liberty Wharf, St Helier

01534 608056

info@rocknroad.je rocknroad.je

MAGIC TOUCH

01534 733388 01534 510616

HEAD TO THE VALLEY

THE PANTRY

Valley Adventures, nestled in a stunning secluded valley, offers thrilling activities for kids’ parties, hens, stags, and corporate days all year round. With a huge range of brilliant activities from zip lines and climbing challenges to paintballing and coasteering, our experienced team delivers fun, safe, and unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Perfect for celebrations or team bonding in nature’s most beautiful playground. Book now!

Now Open! - “The Pantry - by Kismet Cabana” is your new go-to for flavour-packed frozen meals and fresh local produce. Stocked with love, grown in Jersey, and made for real life. Pop in for premium convenience food with global soul, rooted in our island home. Based at La Haule - sign up for the scoop at ThePantry.je

VALLEY ADVENTURE CENTRE

THE PANTRY - BY KISMET CABANA La Haule Farm, Le Mont au Roux, St. Brelade

Mont a la Brune 01534 638888 valleyadventure.je @valleyadventure info@valleyadventure.je

IT MIGHT GET LOUD

07700809863

www.thepantry.je

SUITS YOU

Number one in Jersey for specialised high-quality embroidery and printing, turning your logo or design into stylish apparel that stands out. Whether for business or personal use, Magic Touch adds a professional, customised flair to every piece. Elevate your brand today with unique, expertly crafted clothing and merchandise from Magic Touch. Minimum order of one item for most orders.

It Might Get Loud at Island Music, and that’s exactly how we like it! From awesome guitars and punchy bass to soaring brass, smooth keys, booming drums, and elegant orchestral gems, we’ve got all the gear to make your sound unforgettable. Come play, jam, and find your sound with us.

Looking fab is easy with Bertie’s Suits & Co. Whether you’re after a bespoke suit, formal rental, or gearing up for a wedding or black tie event, they’ve got you covered.

Their expert tailoring ensures a perfect fit, so if you’re dressing for a special event like Ascot or just want to look sharp at the office head to Bertie’s. COMING SOON - Complete your look with handcrafted custom shoes, designed to match your style. Experience timeless sophistication and personalised service at Bertie’s.

MAGIC TOUCH 87 St Clement’s Rd

ISLAND MUSIC 72 Bath Street St Helier 01534 870053 @islandmusicjsy

BERTIE’S SUITS 13 Burrard St, St Helier 01534 742 007 hello@bertiessuits.com bertiessuits.com

01534 766845

sales@magictouchjersey.com

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THE MATRIX

THE HIDDEN GARDEN CO.

The Hidden Garden Co. brings expertise and elegance to your outdoor space. From lush hedging and privacy screening to mature trees, shrubs, and small plants, we’ve got your greenery covered. We also specialise in all aspects of fencing, gates, decking, sheds, chalets, and garages combining craftsmanship and quality. Whether you’re growing a garden or building a backyard escape, we deliver beauty and know-how in every detail.

THE HIDDEN GARDEN CO. La Rue de la Scelletterie, St Lawrence

01534 865615 thehiddengardenjersey@gmail.com www.thehiddengarden.je

ALL PETS

A proudly independent veterinary practice in the heart of St Peter’s. Run by a passionate, female-led team, they offer twenty minute appointments, same-day bookings, home visits, and a ‘Fear Free’ approach to care. From your first visit to lifelong support, All Pets is trusted by pets, chosen by their owners.

ALL PETS Manor Farm Barn, La Route Du Manoir, St.Peter

01534 745999 info@allpets.je

COMPLETE FACILITIES

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IAN PALLOT ARCHITECT

FURNITURE YOU’LL LOVE

RIBA Chartered Architect committed to delivering high quality CREATIVE DESIGN SOLUTIONS that are practical, environmentally efficient and value for money.

I can assist you at every stage of your project, from initial concept sketches to on site supervision, and always with enthusiasm and a willingness to do that little bit extra. If you have a project that you would like to discuss with me, please call or e-mail to arrange a free consultation and see how I can help.

You’ll find sustainable indoor and outdoor furniture, handpicked interior accessories, free styling tips and a warm welcome. Shop top brands such as Ligne Roset, Vincent Sheppard and Ethnicraft in an approachable and relaxed atmosphere. We are looking forward to welcoming you soon to rejig your home, so you fall in love with it again.

IAN PALLOT ARCHITECT

LANDES INTERIORS Rue de la Croix au Maître St Martin, JE3 6DJ

01534 485320 or 07797 814 723 studio@ianpallotarchitect.com www.ianpallotarchitect.com

THINK SOLAR

01534 854634 landesinteriors.com

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR WINDOWS

SunWorks, established in 2013, is Jersey’s leading provider of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions. We also offer top-tier roofing and re-roofing services. With over 600 local installations, SunWorks empowers homeowners and businesses to reduce energy costs, achieve energy security, and enjoy a strong return on investment—driving Jersey’s transition to a renewable energy future.

At Creative Windows, we bring over 30 years of experience to every project; designing and installing elegant timber, PVC and aluminium windows, doors, bespoke conservatories, lightweight tiled roofs, and home extensions. We don’t just upgrade homes, we enhance lifestyles with lasting quality and tailored design. Enjoy interest-free credit, keep your money working for you, while we work on your home. Book your free design consultation today.

SUNWORKS

THE CREATIVE WINDOW AND CONSERVATORY CO.

01534 498822

info@sunworks.je www.sunworks.je

TREE MATTERS

07797 863779

contact@creativewindows.co.uk creativewindows.co.uk

G WOOD JOINERY

Complete Facilities is the company that cares, about our clients, our people, and the planet. From sparkling floors to perfectly working fire alarms, we keep Jersey running smoothly. Proudly local and eco-minded, we clean, fix, maintain, and brighten spaces, all while making life easier and keeping our island community at the heart of everything we do.

Tree Matters have been caring for Jersey’s trees for over 20 years. From emergency storm call-outs and safe tree removals to pruning, surveys, planting and hedge care, the experienced team puts preservation first wherever possible. Trusted by homeowners, businesses and local authorities, Tree Matters is known for safe, responsible work and rapid response when nature strikes, all delivered with passion, professionalism and respect for Jersey’s landscape.

G Wood Joinery specialises in designing and creating furniture, windows, doors, staircases, fence, decorative panels and kitchens.Also we do 3D kitchen projects. Our team is made up of long-serving highly versatile craftsmen, whose knowledge and enthusiasm help turn your ideas into reality. Our workshop is equipped to deal with projects of varying levels of complexity. We can work with you to match existing mould details, help with architectural renovations or heritage works and deliver custom-designed projects.

COMPLETE FACILITIES One Trafford House, L’Avenue Le Bas 01534 871100 completefacilitiesjersey.com info@cfl.je

TREE MATTERS St Lawrence.

07797 827298

G WOOD JOINERY Shop 1, Hansford Close, La Route de St. Aubin,

Joel@treematters.je treematters.je

07829811184

www.gwoodjoinery.com

LIFE & ST YLE IN JERSEY

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JERSEY

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