The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION ACROSS ALL COMMUNITIES

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DECEMBER 2021

Positive • Informative • Objective News Win one of 5 Grace Traditional Bone-In Smoked Leg Hams delivered to you just in time for Christmas - Page 26

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! For more festive photographs from the Frankfurt Christmas Market check out Page 32

BIRMINGHAM BUSINESS CHAMPION BOUNCING BACK FROM THE BRINK Pages 4 & 5

Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

NEWS

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WILL THE LATEST RACISM ROW AT YORKSHIRE CRICKET CLUB HELP TACKLE THIS ISSUE?

By Dr Tony Talburt

A telephone 0121 339 5885 0208 865 1922

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fter the summer of 2020 which was characterised by world-wide protests against police brutality and racism towards Black people, we might have expected to see some major changes in this regard.

Particularly within big public institutions such as schools, civil service, the police and sports, one might have expected to see and hear cases of blatant racial discrimination being adequately addressed.

Sadly, however, it seems this has not been the case in the game of cricket in England.

Yorkshire Cricket Club, one of the country’s most established associations in the game, has been rocked recently by racial discrimination and the subsequent political row over the Azeem Rafiq incident.

Only time will tell whether the case of Azeem Rafiq will signal the start of a move towards addressing racism in the game.

Azeem Rafiq played the majority of his career at Yorkshire, between 2008 and 2018.

Born in Pakistan, he moved to England aged 10 and captained England teams at youth level.

He also captained Yorkshire in 2012.

For Rafiq to say he does not want his children to play the game, is an indictment of the way in which racism blighted his experience at Yorkshire.

Rafiq also said he was close to taking his own life, as a result of the way he felt about his negative experiences encountered at the club.

In fact, Rafiq has accused Yorkshire Cricket Club of being institutionally racists. He had made public his personal experiences suffered while he played for the club.

When Yorkshire Cricket Club were made aware of Rafiq’s claims and allegations, they initially decided to take no significant action. This was

l Azeem Rafiq shocking.

In most companies and institutions, bullying and racial discrimination are serious cases for which employers and employees receive disciplinary actions if they are found to be in breach.

What was particularly important to note was that Azeem Rafiq was a victim of racial harassment and bullying.

This was what an investigation found, but Yorkshire responded by saying it would not discipline anyone.

The only reason for not disciplining anyone must be that no serious breach had been committed.

This was a clear example of turning a blind eye and it should come as no surprise that the investigation was widely criticised especially after it was found that a racist term about Rafiq's Pakistani heritage was regularly used towards him that was described as friendly and good natured banter.

The fall out over this row was

quick. Kit supplier Nike, plus several of Yorkshire's sponsors, including Emerald Publishing, Yorkshire Tea, Tetley's beer and leisure club operators David Lloyd, either ended partnerships or said they would not continue deals.

The England and Wales Cricket Board said, ‘There is no place for racism in cricket, or indeed in society.

The Board has been clear that Yorkshire County Cricket Club's handling of the issues raised

by Azeem Rafiq was wholly unacceptable, and that cricket must work together to eradicate discrimination.

In the end, members of the cricket club’s board either resigned or were removed and a new chair was subsequently appointed.

On the surface, therefore, it might appear something positive is happening. But the problem is wider than one former player and his personal experiences.

Another Yorkshire Academy player, Tabassum Bhatti said

players urinated on his head, desecrated another Muslim player's prayer mat and used racist language aimed at his Pakistani heritage. Surely this was not friendly banter.

Yorkshire’s response in the end, was to make a few steps towards change. This will have to continue.

We also must remember that Azeem Rafiq may have been on the receiving end of racist abuse, but he himself recently had to apologise for making antiSemitic statements when he was in his early twenties.

What this demonstrates is that if cricket is to be cleaned up of racism, everyone, including players, coaches and board members, must change their attitudes towards people who are from different ethnicities.

Whilst the game of cricket might have originated within the context of a white middle class male background, serious attitudinal changes must take place by one and all in order to erode racism in the game.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 3

NEWS

l Shayna Anderson, Student GEM

l Children using the new laptops at White Marl Primary and Junior School

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY FOR WHITE MARL PRIMARY & JUNIOR SCHOOL W ell over a month before sleigh bells are to be heard around the world, a slightly different delivery was made to White Marl Primary and Infant School in St Catherine, Jamaica.

On November 5th, the school received a donation of seven new Hewlett Packard laptops, with the aim to aid the school in fulfilling its mission to empower every child to be a GEM (Gifted, Excellent, Masterpiece).

The laptops were donated

by UK-based World Food

brand Tropical Sun, who are dedicated to aiding not only the students at the school, but also the local economy, having sourced the laptops from a local business, helping to stimulate the economy through the difficult times brought around by Covid-19.

It hasn’t just been the economy that has been hit by the pandemic, the impact on the school population has also been massive, with many students unable to access adequate education during this time. The addition of these new laptops will allow the school to reach more students

simultaneously, and also allow for many other hybrid styles of learning.

Mr Ian Forbes, the schools Board Chairman spoke about this impact, stating “The uptake with respect to the virtual space has been very poor. I think the highest we have had is just under fifty per cent and in some instances 20 plus per cent.”

The school now desires to improve student access to devices and ensure good internet connectivity at the school.

Principal of White Marl Primary & Infant School, Mr Milton Brown stated "God

continues to bless our school and His provisions extend far beyond the technological devices donated tot he school today.

"We make note of the local and international support made evident through the attendance and contributions to the event."

The school was joined remotely by a number of high profile attendees including The Hon. Fayval Williams, Minister of Education, Youth & Information and Dr Kasan Troupe, Acting Chief Education Officer in the MOEYI, His Excellency Seth George Ramocan, Jamaica

High Commissioner to the UK and Councillor Ms Keisha Lewis, who offered greetings on behalf of the Member of Parliament, Hon. Denise Daley.

Also in attendance were Representatives of Tropical Sun Foods, Mr Paul Harrison, Head of Community and Brand Manager Sinan Jefferies, who expressed their gratitude to all of the partners of this venture.

As you can see by the faces of the children, this donation is one early Christmas Present that is definitely going to get a lot of use from this school family.

l Miss Keisha Lewis, Councillor for the Lauriston Division

l Mr Milton Brown, Principal of the White Marl Primary and Infant School

(Christmas Blessings) FROM EVERYONE AT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER

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Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM - WADE LYN

F

or the owner and Managing Director of Island Delight Patties, Wade Lyn CBE - lockdown, and COVID have been both a business and personal battle, that almost ended up in tragedy.

As we sat at the headquarters of Island Delight in Icknield Road, Birmingham, it was evident that Wade wasn’t free of the grip of COVID yet, experiencing Long COVID, but despite this, he was his usual jovial self, pushing through with a laser focus on his current target. It is this determination that has brought Wade, and Island Delight to where they are today.

Wade was born in Jamaica in 1959, and grew up with his aunt and uncle in King Street, Kingston before joining his parents in the UK in 1966. “I still remember the little school there, and using slate board and chalk to do our work,” Wade recalled, with a certain look in his eye as he cast his mind back to those happy times.

“I lived in a very famous street in the UK, Marshall Street, which was where Malcolm X visited the year before I came here,” Wade explained, “It was the epicentre of where Black people were coming in the early 60’s.”

Wade remembered fondly life back then, going to Smethwick Hall Boys School while helping out at the MOBIL Petrol Station his dad had acquired. Joining Warley Athletics specialising in the 100m, 200m and 400m race, and finally towards the end of his secondary education, deciding he wanted to do something in design.

He had a lot of experience in the kitchen as in Caribbean families, the children helped out with the cooking. “Mum would start the chicken in the morning, brown it off and then I’d come home from school, add the gravy and make sure it was ready for dinner on the night.

“Then I’d go and work for a few hours at the Petrol Station every day, but on Mondays and Thursdays I’d also have training from 7.30 to 9!”

One of 4 siblings in the UK, with an older brother and sister, and a younger sister, as well as step-brothers and sister back in Jamaica, Wade went to Birmingham Polytechnic and did Foundation Art and Design, then went to Leeds Polytechnic to do a course in Industrial Design to design cars.

“After about 18 months I decided to become a teacher, I remember in the 80’s they wanted more key black role models in school, so I started a 3 year course to be a teacher in Craft Design & Technology – Woodwork, Metalwork and Plastic.”

Wade’s first foray into entrepreneurship on his own was while at University, called “Wade Lyn Discos”.

“While I was there, the Student Union decided to sell their disco equipment, so we picked it up.

Now the grant we got for living expenses back then was £375 a term to live on, which was meant to cover your accommodation and everything else.”

BIRMINGHAM BUSINESS CHAMPION BOUNCING BACK FROM THE BRINK

l Wade Lyn CBE, Managing Director of Island Delight Patties “I remember spending over £125 on records from that grant, because we had the equipment but no records! We rented it out as a package, for the equipment and a DJ, it would be £30. But if you just wanted the equipment and lights it was £20.

“Taking the front seat out of my Triumph Herald, just to fit all the equipment in to transport it from party to party.”

It was after leaving University that a good friend of the family had a patty company - Kon-Long Caterers in Wolverhampton, and asked Wade to come and run the business. “I went to run it alongside Mrs Johnson who was the mother, and they had a place in Moss Side, Manchester too, and we opened delivery routes into London. They’re my competitors now, the company rebranded as the Original Patty Company”

Cleone was established in 1988, but didn’t start producing until 1989, and started up in Newtown after getting some seed funding.

Wade also found some business angels, a bit like Dragons Den. “I went to get the machinery to make the patties, of which we still use the boiling pans today, and the Business Angels said don’t buy the equipment off us, just give us shares, which we did.

“Those two gentleman guided me so well, and experience is something you can’t put a price on.

“My father was back in Jamaica, in our little village of Chapelton in Clarendon, and I can remember my parents giving me £4,876 to set up the business.

“Because I’d worked for the competitors, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to target their customers, so I went after new custom in different areas.”

To Advertise

In those days all the patties were unwrapped, so that was Island Delight’s USP, despite having to apply the labels manually.

“We were based on Alma Street at the time, and then moved to our current site on Icknield St in 1994, 5 years to the month from when we started. When we moved here I had aspirations to get an EC trading license to trade in Europe, so we got our number which is B106.

“I also wanted to expand into supermarkets, and after finally getting in front of Tesco’s buyer they said they wanted the product and where did we want to start with.”

Starting with Brixton, Portobello Road and Tottenham, Island Delight quickly spread to 12 locations across London, before moving to Regional Distribution Centres to take the headache out of supplying the stores. “Because

of this they offered us another 35 stores, which was great, and not a problem for our production.”

After Sunrise Bakery helped Wade get into ASDA in Birmingham, Sainsburys came on board too after some negotiation on price.

“For me it has always been about being best in class. So Island Delight are the number 1 brand in the UK, and we’ve obtained BRC AA status putting us on the same level as Ginsters, Pork Farms and other brands like that.

“We’ve got the biggest manufacturing capacity on site, and we’re nowhere near full capacity yet, we can flex our production up to 250,000 patties a week if needs be!”

“We lost the Tesco contract 3 years ago on price, because as a company we have a quality, and we don’t step below that quality.”

0121 339 5885

You may have seen Wade on billboard and adverts around the countrys as part of an initiative around COP26 by Lloyds Bank to highlight the work towards Net Zero that smaller businesses are doing.

“We have a steam generator at the back as we cook with steam, but we also use that steam to heat our hot water, and to drive our central heating as well, trying to maximise our resources. We’ve also converted all our lights to LED, have installed solar panels, and send all of our food waste to Anaerobic Digestion Plants.

“I’ve got to thank Lloyd’s Bank for bigging up the pattie industry, and highlighting the work we’ve been doing to make us a greener business.”

The business has also teamed up with Juici patties in Jamaica to produce them under license for the UK and Europe.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 5

STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM - WADE LYN

“What I want to do,” Wade stated boldly, “is inspire the next generation of young Black and Asian, BME people to say you know what, you can achieve it.”

Youth unemployment is a massive issue at the moment, but despite this, even when looking for new staff, Wade is finding it difficult. “It’s been hard to find a BME PA for myself, we’re finding as you recruit management level they’re harder and harder to find. We’re also trying to recruit more from the Afro-Caribbean community as apprentices, it’s still hard even then, but as I said to our HR, lets try and do something for our community.”

At the moment Wade’s daughter is a part of the business, dealing with Digital and Marketing, and Wade is also working with a young lady from the Legacy Centre to sell brown dolls to the supermarkets.

Upon entering the offices for this interview, there were a number of people waiting in reception as it is not only the headquarters for Island Delight, but the Jamaica Honorary Consulate in Birmingham.

After receiving his CBE from The Queen in 2013, the Jamaican government approached Wade to be the Honorary Consul.

“We are a volunteer organisation that runs the Jamaica Government Passport Office here, it’s an honorary,

not paid position, so Cleone Foods is the one that pays the people working on it, including Monica and all our volunteers.

“We’re able to sign photographs here to prove that your photo is a true likeness of you when you apply for your passports,” Wade continued, “we also provide visa applications for some African countries that you need a visa for, and we also deal with naturalisation, allowing people to apply for a Jamaican Passport providing they have the correct documentation of their family including birth certificates etc.

“We also look after some of the international students that come here to study at Birmingham or Aston from Jamaica, and include them in some of the events that we hold across the city.”

Wade was also appointed to become the 2020 High Sheriff for the West Midlands in December 2017.

Unfortunately it was on April 2nd 2020 that Wade was taken by ambulance to hospital before being put into an induced coma for 5 weeks as a result of coronavirus.

“A friend called an ambulance for me, my oxygen levels were in the low 80’s, and during the time I was in the coma, my daughter received at least 4 calls to tell her that they didn’t know if I was going to survive the next 48 hours.”

“When I was eventually brought back around, my muscles had atrophied, so I was unable even to pick up my phone or get up. They told me I’d had a stroke and transferred me to Moseley Hall, where I also needed dialysis, had liver and kidney failure, and my lungs were shot.”

Wade is a firm believer that you only get one chance in life and you’ve got to make the most of it, which is why the second chance that this has afforded him postCOVID, is so important to him.

“My will stipulates that I want my body donated to science, and I signed up as an organ donor through Michael Willis’ foundation event a few years ago.

“I want to give someone that second chance like I’ve been given post-COVID and like Michael was given with his double lung transplant. It’s a massive issue in the Afro-Caribbean community, alongside Prostate Cancer.

“Those of us who have been there, we’re now the voice to say ‘get this checked out for

your family’.”

Wade holds, and has held a lot of positions over his career, including: • May 1999 - May 2004 NonExecutive Director for Chrysalis Radio Midlands and Galaxy Radio • 1999-2010 Trustee to Hear of England Radio Charitable Trust • January 2000 - Present Bank of England Advisor in capacity of SME and particularly those from minority ethnic communities.

• 2003-2014 Board Director Heart of England Fine Foods Limited • July 2003 Advisor to Food & Drink Cluster Group - Regional Development Agency Advantage West Midlands • Sept 2003 December 2004 advisory Panel for the Neighbourhood Renewal Unit Office of Deputy Prime Minister - Business in the Community • May 2005 - Present, Director, Greets Green Partnership • May 2005 - Present, Regional Director - Business In The Community

• October 2006 - Present, Warden for Birmingham ASSAY Office • 2009 - 2013 Joined Regional Development Agency - Minority Ethnic Business Forum • 2009 - Present, Chairman the 12/8 Group • 2009 - Present, Honorary Chairman for the Landlords National Property Group (LNPG) • June 2010-2012 HRH Prince Charles' West Midlands Special Ambassador in the West Midlands for Social Responsibility.

• 2011 Invited to advise House of Commons Committees on the issues faced by SME's and minority ethnic businesses.

• 2011 Board member of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership • June 2013 Queens birthday Honours List awarded Commander of the British Empire (CBE) • November 2013 appointed Honorary Consul in Birmingham for the North by the Government of Jamaica • December 2017 appointed to become 2020 High Sheriff in the West Midlands Despite now living with Long COVID and working reduced hours to manage his condition, Wade continues to look forward both personally and for Island Delight.

The future is bright for this local champion, who continues to support initiatives every year around the region, not least providing an essential service to the Jamaican community in the UK.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

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ADOPTION & FOSTERING Supportive Employers Essential For Adoptive Parents, Says Mum

AGENCY CALL FOR MORE A BLACK ADULTS TO ADOPT

l Rachael Pritchard and her husband Stephen

B

lack adults are being urged to consider adoption as an agency said it is struggling to find Black children a permanent home which is a good match for their cultural background.

ACE Adoption provides the service for five councils in the West Midlands and they say that Black youngsters are spending far

longer in the care system because of a lack of good matches. Melissa Rose, from the agency, says getting a good complementary family can help children overcome the challenge of bonding.

"It can be so important to get the right matches and make sure our children can grow up in the communities they would have been in if they were able to stay

with their birth family," she said.

ACE (Adoption Central England) is the regional adoption agency for the local authority areas of Coventry, Herefordshire, Solihull, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire. This means that they work very closely with Children’s Services across the 5 local authorities in securing adoption for children who are

unable to live with their birth parents or relatives.

The arrangements in place with the local authorities means that they know very early on about children who may need adoptive parents so that we can identify, prepare, and support prospective adoptive families for those children coming through.

UK Fostering Awarded ‘Outstanding’ Grade In Yet Another High-Scoring Ofsted Inspection

UK FOSTERING has reaffirmed its status as one of Britain’s most reputable, trusted and successful fostering agencies after securing a rare clean sweep of ‘outstanding’ grades from The Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted).

The latest government reports show that UK Fostering is providing high-calibre services that far surpassed standards expected - ranking the independent organisation among the best of its kind in the country.

Recent Ofsted inspections

found UK Fostering excelled in every area - with the agency providing rewarding experiences, protecting children, and demonstrating effective management/ leadership.

UK Fostering supports families caring for vulnerable children who are unable to safely live with their birth parents, covering London, the South-East, the Midlands and the North-West (with a separate office in North-East England).

Collaborating with regional bodies to help children of various backgrounds, UK Fostering has spent almost a

decade changing lives through emergency, short-term, longterm care for children of all background and ages including children with disabilities, unaccompanied asylum seekers, parent and child amongst others.

Ofsted reports are divided into three main sections: ‘overall experiences and progress of children and young people’; ‘how well children and young people are helped and protected’; and ‘the effectiveness of leaders and managers’. In the 2021 report, UK Fostering achieved an ‘outstanding’ grade in all categories.

To Advertise

s part of National Adoption Week 2021, a West Midlands mother spoke out about how important it is for adoptive parents to receive support from their employers when going through the arduous process.

Rachael Pritchard and her husband Stephen adopted their son in 2015 when he was three and a half years old.

The process was long, intrusive and intensive, but without support from friends, family and colleagues, they say the process would have been almost impossible.

Rachael, a HR Operations Manager for national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, said: “Adopting our son was the best decision we’ve ever made but the process was an incredibly nerve wracking and difficult time and I’m so lucky to have been supported by my employers and colleagues.

“We didn’t ever think adoption would be a path we would go down but we always wanted a family and we felt that we could offer a child a good start in life, but once we made that decision it was really important that I spoke to my manager about it as I knew I’d need time off for process. Thankfully, they were hugely flexible.

“As the process progressed more people knew about it and I really started to see the caring

0121 339 5885

sides of the people I worked with. They went from being colleagues to people I could genuinely lean upon and who truly cared about what we were going through.”

After attending an initial intensive course, Rachael and Stephen went in front of a panel where it was decided that they were approved as adoptive parents.

“In our case it only took a couple of months and from the point where we were approved to leaving on adoption leave I only worked one week, which meant my team had to step up and rally round. The support network both professionally and personally was so incredible.

“And then we were parents!”

Rachael took nine months off on adoption leave and returned to her position part time. Her son is now 10 years old and is thriving in school and at home.

“The first three months of having him was a complete blur,” she said. “Across the board at the firm parents are given the flexibility they need to deal with the unforeseen issues that arise with having children, that support is invaluable.”

In the UK there are almost 3,000 children in need of an adoptive family and the number of adoptions in England has fallen by a third in four years.

National Adoption Week provided accurate information about the process.

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 7

Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

NEWS

S

porting legend Usain Bolt visited the Jamaica Pavilion at World Expo Dubai 2020 last weekend.

The sprint legend was guest of Pepsico/Gatorade at the Expo on Saturday, November 13, where he participated in the Run the World Family Run charity event.

The Bolt Pavilion, managed

by Gatorade, paid homage to sporting legends like Usain Bolt, who consume this beverage during training and competitions.

His contribution to the sport of track and field was also commemorated in the Jamaica Pavilion. A guided tour of the Pavilion was provided by the Commissioner General of Section, Jamaica Pavilion at World Expo 2020 Dubai, Essie Gardner.

The Commissioner General said Mr. Bolt brought an additional air of excitement to the already popular Jamaica Pavilion, as visitors not only got to learn of his accomplishments in sport while representing Jamaica but also meet the living legend.

“We are, undoubtedly, a very popular pavilion. We are on public media at least once a week, we are requested by many

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USAIN BOLT VISITS THE JAMAICA PAVILION AT WORLD EXPO DUBAI schools and our visitor numbers are consistently above average.

Yes, Usain Bolt attracted so many visitors, many of whom we had to turn away due to capacity

by Delroy Constantine-Simms & Maureen Drackett-Fuller

issues, but the people in the Pavilion were certainly excited to see a living legend.

Some visitors were in such awe that they were brought to tears when he greeted him, including children,” explained Ms. Gardner.

Mr. Bolt’s tour of the Jamaica Pavilion also saw him spending some time in the music zone listening to a curated playlist of reggae music.

Mr. Bolt was taken down memory lane as he viewed images and videos of himself and other Jamaican athletes on display inside the Jamaica Pavilion.

He was definitely please to see himself represented in the sports zone of the Pavilion. He reflected

l Usain Bolt on some of the moments captured on video and the fact that we had his maquette on show. He even tweeted on the visit himself,” Ms. Gardner shared.

She added that Mr. Bolt enjoyed his tour of the Jamaica Pavilion, which proved to be very nostalgic for the sprint legend, who appeared impressed with his visit.

“After the guided tour of the Pavilion, Bolt interacted with visiting fans and made himself available for photo opportunities and memorabilia signings.

The Jamaican delegation in Dubai, which includes representatives from the Ministry of Tourism; Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, and the Jamaica Special

Economic Zone Authority, are anticipating the visit of other notable Jamaicans during the Expo.

World Expo 2020 Dubai is being held from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, under the theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’.

"What Have You Done Today To Make That Tomorrow Possible?"

- Author of The Pursuit of Happyness and Permission to Dream, Chris Gardner at the 40th Sharjah International Book Fair

by Delroy Constantine-Simms & Maureen Drackett-Fuller “It is okay to fail but not okay to quit,” said Chris Gardner to a packed audience at the 40th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), while he laid out the blueprint for actioning a dream into reality.

Discussing his new book, Permission to Dream, with Sally Mousa, the international best selling author, entrepreneur and award-winning film producer, said: “Failure can be your best friend. You are going to learn things from failure that you cannot from success. The key lies in not making the same mistake twice.”

Sharing lessons of perseverance from his journey as a homeless and penniless parent to his meteoric rise as a successful entrepreneur and investor on Wall Street, the philanthropist revealed: “I am trying to change the trajectory of

children’s lives and create the next Chris Gardner – some of them will be girls!”

In Permission to Dream, the motivational speaker delivers the secrets to success and provides the tools to turn dreams into action.

The book, inspired by a trip with his then 9-year-old granddaughter, urges readers to achieve their

ultimate dreams and become “world-class” at it.

It is not just enough to dream; every dream must also have a plan, emphasised Gardner, urging everyone to ask themselves two questions each morning as they look in the mirror: If you were given a chance to step out into the world tomorrow and do anything

that you wanted, what would it be?

"Second, what have you done today to make that tomorrow possible?

“If you have not taken the baby steps towards achieving your dream, it means you still have work to do. If you do not have the passion, maybe you should be doing something else.”

The author also recalled how, as he washed his 14-month-old son in a train station restroom years ago, he was forced to ask himself some hard questions: Why did this happen to me? How did I get here?

“My answer - I drove here - hit me hard but was liberating too. I realised that If I drove here, I can drive out of here too. You can’t change something unless you own it.”

Gardner, who plans to work with the youth to supercharge their dreams, said that he is often asked about the odds of another rags-toriches story ever happening again.

“When you are on the journey to your dream, you don’t focus on the odds; you focus on the events.”

l Delroy Constantine-Simms with Chris Gardner Gardener, whose new book also explores the concept of ‘Atomic Time’ – in which every second counts, left his audience with a final word of advice: “The biggest lesson the pandemic has taught us

is that time is the ultimate asset.

"It has taught us all that you can make and lose money, but you cannot change time. So, it is important that we do the things we want to right now.”

@PhoenixNewsUK

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 9

Community Spirit 2022

• Are you part of a Community choir in or around Birmingham?

• Do you want to perform in the world-renowned Symphony Hall?

• Would you like to be one of the first people to sing a brand new commissioned anthem for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games?

Whether you and your choir sing classical, pop, rock, gospel, folk, reggae or barbershop, you’re invited to bring your voices together for this shared experience.

To find out how you can sign up to sing out with B:Music and Black Voices, visit

bmusic.co.uk/community-spirit

Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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Business & Finance T Council Set To Launch £3million Programme To Boost Wolverhampton Youth Employment

A

£100,000 fund has been set up as part of the Wolves at Work 1824 Youth Employment Programme in response to high levels of youth unemployment in the City.

The City Ideas Fund was launched on 18 November 2021 when delegates were invited to the City Summit: Tackling Youth Unemployment Together, to hear about: why the council’s 'Wolves at Work 18-24' plans really do need support to work and how they could help, young people’s perspectives and pledges already made by city stakeholders.

There was a mix of government, local business owners and organisations. All turned out at 8 am to take part in serious discussions in relation to the state of the unemployment in Wolverhampton.

Kevin Davis, Chief Executive Officer, The Vine Trust Group, gave a very informative speech opening up the conversation to the floor on how best do we tackle such a delicate matter.

They are looking for dynamic, creative activities and projects,

and the pilot round launched on the 18th November 2021 and will close on 17 December 2021.

Applicants will be able to apply for grants from £500 up to £10,000. Depending on the volume of applications, successful applicants may be announced before December 17, so they advise you to apply as soon as you can.

Tackling youth unemployment is a key priority for City of Wolverhampton Council. To do so requires coming together as 'One City'.

Councillor Ian Brookfield, Leader, City of Wolverhampton Council, Mo Aldube, Actor, Gazebo Theatre and Aman Toor, Administrator, Jobchange, Helene Dearn, Group Director West Midlands, Department for Work and Pensions and Caoire Blakemore, Commercial Director, AF Blakemore & Son were on hand.

They spoke on a number of topics including "Why we need a ‘One City’ approach", "The challenges facing our young people" and "DWP’s vital role and contribution"

he global pandemic has dented the confidence of many in the West Midlands Region, but for others, it has created opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase their imaginative and resilience prowess.

However, on Monday, 8 November 2021, Global Entrepreneurial Development Services Limited (GEDS - founded in 2010) in conjunction with Community Education Academy of Leadership (CEAL -established in 2002), organised the first ever ‘Social Enterprise Day’ in honour of Global Entrepreneurial Week.

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is an international initiative that brings entrepreneurship to young people in six continents.

Over 10 million people from 170 countries take part yearly and currently, 165 countries worldwide, celebrate this annual event that generates approximately 35,000 events, activities and competitions.

Participation includes entrepreneurs and investors, policymakers and researchers, educators, entrepreneurship support organizations and interested individuals.

The event attracted an appreciative number of delegates (from Birmingham, Sandwell, Wolverhampton and elsewhere), at Greets Green Community Centre in West Bromwich, Sandwell.

It attracted budding entrepreneurs from all age, ethnic, faith, gender and other socio-economic groups.

Over 50% of delegates were participants of a GEDS’ 6-month ESF-funded ‘Business Regulations & Organisational Development (BROAD) project in the Black Country.

This enterprise celebration depicted various sectors. The

ANOTHER HISTORIC FIRST BY TWO ‘CHAMPION’ ENTERPRISE ORGANISATIONS

by Global Entrepreneurial Development Services Limited

l Delegate receiving the BCE book creative industries (art & crafts, textiles, publishing), health care (alternative therapies) and personal care (skin creams).

Others were; health care (blood pressure checks), food and hospitality (confectionary/ fruit drinks) as well as light manufacturing (ornamental crystals).

The hallmark of the occasion, was a rare presentation on “Migrant Entrepreneurship in Britain”, by award-winning author and publisher, Dr. Christopher A. Johnson, Chair of CEAL and Founding-Director of GEDS. It addressed the still unknown history of migrant entrepreneurship from the late 18th century to the present.

“Nearly 500,000 migrant entrepreneurs are contributing to Britain’s economic history, despite systemic discrimination and prejudice, as well as other ‘labour market ethnic penalties”.

Invitees also had a chance to witness the twin CEAL-GEDS partnership endeavours on capacity building, civic affairs, education, employability, enterprise, and textiles heritage among other stellar achievements.

Wolverhampton musician, Izel Hood, also a GEDS’ participant, entertained the audience with an assortment of soul ballads, pop,

instrumental and other classic compositions.

Delegates summed up their impressions of the ‘Social Enterprise Day’, with diverse these diverse opinions:• “Within the last 2-3 weeks, I have been able to develop my skincare business idea into a real enterprise and thanks to the BROAD project which has taught me much about pricing, planning and organising your business activities,” • “I feel very grateful for the opportunity to be able to produce herbal drinks and it was because of the push I got from the ESF course”. “I really had a wonderful time. I enjoyed the event; it has been an eyeopening experience, some good encouragement and opportunity of meeting entrepreneurs”.

• “The presentation was excellent and the areas discussed therein, were new to me and others and I wish it was longer. The overall session was well organised, though we need a larger venue for future events of this kind”.

• “I am most delighted to be here today; there is nothing stopping us to pursue our dreams. I enjoy the event, good luck. It was inspirational”.

l Another Birmingham creative industries entrepreneur l A Sandwell entrepreneurial family exhibiting healthy products

l A Birmingham couple showcasing light manufacturing products

l Ranbir Kaur International Rangoli Artist and friend

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 11

WISHING YOU A

TROPICAL

CHRISTMAS

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

thephoenixnewspaper.com

LORD MAYOR ATTENDS ACTIVE CLINIC’S 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

T

he only Midlands based cryotherapy clinic, Active Clinic - based on Birmingham’s Hagley Road - recently celebrated 5 successful years of business with a lavish party.

VIP guests included, celebrities and sports stars such as, Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Muhammad Afzal, Love Island’s Idris Virgo, BBC Radio Presenter/ Actor Noreen Khan, BBC Radio

London duo Sunny & Shay, Brummie Take Me Out TV Personality Kirsty Lo, former kickboxing world champion Wayne Turner and international female rugby star Heather Fisher.

Guests were treated to an initial reception at Active Clinic’s HQ in Edgbaston where Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Muhammad Afzal officially launched the new hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber treatment room.

Celebrations then continued next door in the Eaton Hotel with live fire dancing acts, a complementary bar serving an array of refreshing mocktails and delicious vegan food canapes.

The evening was eventually finished off with a live DJ performance that had guests dancing throughout the evening.

l The Lord Mayor celebrating Active Clinic's 5th Anniversary

THE MODERN WAY TO FUND CARE

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one of life’s inevitabilities is that as we grow older our health starts to deteriorate and our reliance on support for our care needs increase.

Sadly, every year over 50,000 elderly people are forced to sell their homes to fund their care. There are few options available to the growing number of the older generation, who need to pay care home fees.

If you or your family require help with care funding, our care advice partner My Care My Home offer a free impartial information and advice service informing you of all

For those thinking of selling their Charity owned; Shaw Lifetime Care (SLC) are currently the only home to fund the costs of their care, they may want to reconsider. providers of this solution. The Care and Home Inheritance Plan The recent Government “CHIP®” could help fund your care announcement to cap care for as long as you require without costs in England will not be the need to sell your home. Dr implemented until at least Neslyn Watson-Druee (CBE), a October 2023, and realistically Trustee of The Shaw Foundation may not be the solution for the (TSF), the charity which developed vast majority of those seeking this solution was recently quoted ways to finance their care home as saying “we believe that no one fees today or in the future. should be forced to sell their There is a modern way to home to pay for care. We have pay for care. spent many years developing this solution which we hope will help Leasing your home to a company growing numbers of families is a new solution, where they across England and Wales from become legally obliged to pay an selling their home to pay for care”. agreed contribution towards your The solution is available to all who chosen care home costs, directly meet the criteria and is not to the care home operator. The subject to any medical assessments. great thing is that you still own Each CHIP® is personalised, the property and all future depending on our clients’ increases in its value, allowing circumstances. you to retain ownership within your family.

your options, including the CHIP®. Their customer care team are available through on-line chat or by calling them on freephone: 0800 731 8470.

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Shaw Lifetime Care: 02921 510150 or visit our website: www.shawlifetimecare.co.uk This advertorial is sponsored by Beacon Organisational Development Ltd

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ActionCOACH Black Country Takes Victory For Fifth Year Running

A

ctionCOACH Black Country managing director Andy Hemming has scooped a top industry award for the fifth year in a row beating hundreds of others to get the accolade.

He was awarded the ActionCOACH ‘UK Best Client Ratings’ once again, after first receiving the award in 2017. The nationwide competition saw more than 200 coaches compete for the award.

“I’m incredibly honoured and proud to have won this particular award again this year,” said Mr Hemming. “For me, this is one the most important awards of the night as it’s based directly on client feedback.

“We are very privileged here at ActionCOACH Black Country to work with some fantastic Black Country and Shropshire business owners and help them on their journeys through business.”

He is used to being recognised at this level after being consistently placed in the top 10 Action Coaches in the world since 2014 and now has a team of four which support him including Lewis Haydon, who two years ago went from being one of Mr Hemming’s

clients to a fellow coach.

“Everyone here at ActionCOACH Black Country loves what they do and that’s why we get the results we do," said Mr Hemming. “When I coach, I speak from a position of experience. I've been in these situations, I’ve lost my head and my business nearly went bust. I know what it’s like to not know where to turn and I understand the pain and panic that comes with that.

“I love what I do because I get to help others avoid making the same mistakes.” The award is based on a Net Promoter Score which is used by companies all over the world to measure customer experience and predict business growth.

A world class NPS score would be considered anything above 30 with NFU mutual having the highest score in the UK with 70.

Mr Hemming has an NPS of 100 which means 60 of his clients were ‘extremely likely’ to recommend him.

Established in 2007, ActionCOACH Black Country has helped numerous businesses achieve their full potential, maximising efficiency and increasing profitability using a tried and tested formula.

0208 865 1922 (London)

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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BOUTIQUE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM ACQUIRES £4MILLION HAULAGE AND LOGISTICS COMPANY

W

inch & Co have completed the acquisition of Eclipse Distribution, a haulage and logistics business based in Loughborough, founded in 1989.

The boutique private equity firm based in Leeds city centre said the acquisition outlines its latest investment mandate to find logistics and distribution businesses by which it will grow its group.

It plans to continue its acquisition trail aimed at businesses based in the UK that compliments its platform.

Shaun Swinburn, Operations Director at Winch & Co said: “It’s been several months in the making, but we are happy with what we have bought, and succession planning was already in place. The business is very clean and has proven to be the perfect platform for what we plan to build.”

The previous owner of Eclipse Distribution, David Ash, commented: “The new owners have their own vision for Eclipse

and the haulage sector. I look forward to seeing how far they take the business.”

The company operates over 40 lorries, as well as sprinters, vans and other transport vehicles.

Winch & Co is already in various stages of discussion with other distribution businesses of a similar size.

Nathan Winch, Managing Partner of Winch & Co, who sold his first business in 2017 and has subsequently exited more, added: “Shaun and the team have been instrumental in getting this deal over the line. We completed this acquisition in the same week as another purchase – so it’s safe to say we worked our legal team that week!”

The legal advisors supporting the transaction were Ison Harrison, the largest law firm in Yorkshire – also based in Leeds city centre working closely with Winch & Co. Richard Coulthard, a partner at Ison Harrison solicitors, said he was happy to help Winch & Co close two deals in the same week, which he hasn’t done for a client before.

Winch & Co have already

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 13

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

appointed a new Managing Director for the business and look to grow predominantly by acquisition, however, they are introducing new clients as part of their network to facilitate organic growth in parallel.

l Nathan Winch, Managing Partner of Winch & Co

Check out our Man About Town Delroy Constantine-Simms

Government Plans For HS2 Birmingham To Leeds Link Dropped

IT HAS BEEN reported that the government has finally cancel plans for the HS2 rail link to Leeds.

This comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson previously committed to building the connection from the West Midlands to the northern powerhouse of Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds. Government ministers were said to be poised, instead, to fund disparate projects that favour Tory constituencies.

Two shorter high-speed routes – one running between Leeds and Sheffield and another from Birmingham to East Midlands Parkway – are said to be more favoured options as Transport Secretary Grant Shapps was expected to announce the outcome of the long-delayed integrated rail plan. Leeds could be set to receive its own tram system for

not being connected to HS2.

Henri Murison, director of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership thinktank, said: “Without the benefits to areas such as Yorkshire and the north-east, HS2’s status as a project to drive the whole of the UK is undermined considerably. Will this be a government that levels up, or levels down and walks away from the northern powerhouse they promised with city leaders across the north?

“The government’s priority should be to build HS2 south from Leeds as well as securing a new station in Bradford on the critical new line across the Pennines.” A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Work is continuing on the integrated rail plan. We will publish it shortly and do not comment on speculation.”

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

thephoenixnewspaper.com

THE EDUCATION, FUNERALTRAINING OF MOMMA AND JEN RECRUITMENT

g n i t o Prom xcellence E

As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.

HS2 RELEASES HUNDREDS OF NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES

W

ith local job v a c a n c i e s ranging from apprenticeships, to site operatives and office-based support roles, BBV (Balfour Beatty VINCI) was encouraging residents to step forward and consider a career in construction.

The opportunities were promoted at BBV’s jobs fair held at the Free@ last Youth and Community Centre in Nechells, Birmingham. BBV and its suppliers were particularly keen to hear from people who are out of work or looking to develop their skills, as free training opportunities

are also available.

Shilpi Akbar, Head of Stakeholders and Communities at Balfour Beatty VINCI said: “As well as finding out about all our latest vacancies, we shared details of the free training and support available to help candidates to get ‘job-ready’ for HS2. With a ten-year construction programme ahead of us, there’s never been a more exciting or rewarding time to get onboard and discover what a career in construction can offer.”

From its new Skills Academy in Bordesley Green, BBV will be delivering free construction skills training courses which provide

nationally recognised accreditation.

The courses are tailored to meet everyone’s needs and cater for those with or without previous industry experience.

HS2’s Skills Manager for the West Midlands, Julie Venn-Morton, said: “HS2’s arrival is spearheading a jobs and skills revolution across the region. BBV is not only seeking to recruit local talent, but also investing in delivering training and support packages to provide local people with the skills they need to secure a long and meaningful career in the sector.”

Open Study College Launch Campaign To Encourage More Men To Study l CEO of Kura, Godfrey Ryan

School Transport Provider Celebrates Litany Of Successes One Year On KURA, a leading transport technology provider offering safer, greener and smarter travel for education and businesses, is celebrating a host of achievements made over the last 12 months.

The company, founded with the intention of transforming the traditional school bus run, enables schools and businesses to maximise the safety, wellbeing and productivity of their students and employees, while driving down transport costs and CO2 emissions.

By combining leading-edge proprietary technology with a nationwide network of vehicle operators, the business now manages a UK-wide virtual fleet of 40,000 vehicles and works with schools, multi academy trusts and local authorities, tracking over 400 routes daily on home-to-school services for over 15,000 pupils. In the last 12 months, Kura has increased its school customer base by 35% to reach its target milestone of 50 school clients.

Kura has improved the user interface, meaning parents enjoy a more streamlined experience despite the surge in both passengers and app users.

As a result of this growth, Kura has increased its headcount by 20%, with growth in Development and Customer Success teams.

FOLLOWING A national survey which revealed that over two-thirds of men (70 percent) have not completed any form of education since the age of 30, Open Study College, is encouraging more men to invest in their education, as part of its nationwide campaign that was launched on International Men’s Day. The survey explored the reasons behind men not wanting to invest further in their education and found that a quarter (24 percent) admitted to having no drive or motivation to study, while almost half (43 percent) said they didn’t think additional qualifications were necessary to progress in their careers.

It also highlighted the need to do more to help with men’s mental health: • Over two thirds (69 percent) of 18-30-yearolds polled said they have

struggled with their mental health in the last two years.

• 42 percent said they had taken up studying as a way of improving their mental health.

The distance learning provider has also collaborated with Birmingham Brewing Company to mark the campaign. It created ‘The Study Buddy’, a limitededition, citrus flavoured, low-alcohol pale ale which every learner enrolling in November received.

Samantha Rutter, CEO of Open Study College, said: “We’re so excited to partner up with Birmingham Brewing Co. for this campaign not only as a fellow Birmingham business but also because we feel a real synergy with its brand that takes pride in creating beers for all Brummies to enjoy."

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 15

THE FUNERAL OF MOMMA JEN EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

DOUBLE GRADUATIONS: A TIME TO CELEBRATE THE SUCCESS OF FAMILY GENERATIONS

G l Ebenezer Asaju and his daughter Jennifer

raduation is often associated with young people gaining their degrees, and having an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and all of their hard work with their families. At the Newman University graduation ceremony held at Symphony Hall in November, this also gave the opportunity for some special celebrations as a father and

daughter and a mother and son were graduating at the same time.

Jacky Hawkins, gained her PG certificate in Chaplaincy, whilst her son Nathan gained his BA in Theatre, Drama and Applied Performance.

Another family success story was for Ebenezer Asaju and his daughter Jennifer Asaju.

Ebenezer gained his PG certificate in Chaplaincy, whilst Jennifer gained her BA Hons degree

Working with Children Young People and Families, together with international social work.

Both generations said that they were able to motivate each other, especially during Covid and lockdowns.

Everyone was so please to be able to get together at Symphony Hall and meet up with friends and colleagues, and staff from Newman, who all make up the supportive Newman community.

l Jacky Hawkins with her son Nathan

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Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

EVA LOEFFLER OBE

T

he daughter of Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann, Eva Loeffler OBE is more recognised as the longest serving volunteer of the Paralympic movement – long after she helped her father run the first Stoke Mandeville Games in 1948, the event which later developed into the Paralympic Games.

The Vice-President of WheelPower, she received her OBE in the 2010 New Year’s Honour List for services to Disability Sport.

Further still, Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex has unveiled Eva Loeffler to the Stoke Mandeville Hall of Fame for her services to British wheelchair sport.

Trained as a physiotherapist, she worked briefly alongside her father at Stoke Mandeville in the 1950s.

During the Wheelchair Games at Stoke Mandeville, she used to go along and help as one of the volunteers - in the early years it was almost totally run by volunteers - and used to help pulling the arrows out of the archery butts and picking up the ball during table tennis matches.

“My father started working at Stoke Mandeville in 1944 when I was eleven,” she recalls. “It meant that he became increasingly absent.

"He would set off on the bus on

Monday morning and basically stay there all week and come home at weekends when he would be busy writing medical papers and often travelling to other spinal units abroad.”

“Eventually he bought our first car and travelled to Stoke every day. But although he was very supportive of my brother, who became a doctor,

and me, when I trained to be a physiotherapist, he was too involved in his work to play with us and I only remember one family holiday”.

After finishing her training as a physiotherapist, in 1957, she worked at Stoke Mandeville for a short time.

“It was difficult,” she recalls, “because my father would ask me questions I couldn’t answer and

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correct me in front of everyone.

“He was absolutely devoted to his work; and when he wasn’t doing that he was at home writing papers or preparing talks; or else he was away travelling. He retained that very Germanic strain of authoritarianism.

Eva continued his legacy and was appointed Mayor of the London Paralympic Village in 2012.

Leading up to – and following – the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, producers John Battsek of two-time Academy Award winning Passion Pictures (One Day in September, Searching for Sugar Man) and Greg Nugent of HTYT Films produced a ground-breaking new feature documentary, provisionally titled ‘Harder Than You Think’, which charts the extraordinary story of the Paralympic Games.

An integral part of a medical and sporting legacy, Eva Loeffler OBE – a very stoic Woman of Excellence - will continue to forward the Paralympics movement to greater heights, the likes of which will be very hard to match.

0121 339 5885

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 17

MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS

DECEMBER 2021

/streetcredmagazine www.streetcredmagazine.com

THE PHENOMENON RETURNS

Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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BIRMINGHAM ROARS BACK AT FULL STRENGTH

I

n what was a greatly anticipated and thoroughly welcome return, MCM Birmingham Comic Con exploded into the Birmingham's NEC with a kaleidescope of colour, with people showing off their lockdown cosplay creations.

The show was far busier than expected, with people filling the halls to capacity, perusing the wide range of cards, toys, collectibles, clothing, props and much much more that was on offer to all.

The list of celebrity attendees was much smaller than normal, but the guests who attended were well-received including Hayden Christensen and Ian McDiarmid along with the voice cast of Red Dead Redemption.

The Main & Live Stages hosted some impressive panels across the days, and the Cosplay Stage had the usual mix of advice and showcases, much to the joy of all in attendance.

There was time to “level up” in the

Gaming Zone, whether you’re hardcore or casual, digital or analog there’s something for everyone.

Featuring organised play, tournaments and freeplay for all the hottest new games, retro favourites and can’t-miss classics, the Gaming Zone is the perfect place to take a short rest.

It’s dangerous to go alone so grab your friends and head on over because “Ready Player One!” For those concerned about COVID, all attendees needed either a COVID Pass or to take a lateral flow test at the center. The NEC had facilities to test for a fee and blocked everyone from proceeding through a hall without that or showing their pass. A wristband was then provided to prove this If you missed out this time, then do not fear, alongside other events around the country, MCM Birmingham will return 12-13 November, 2022 at the NEC.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 19

A musical feast this festive season

Kate Rusby at Christmas

Now That’s What I Call Christmas Live!

Sat 11 December 2021 3:30pm and 7:30pm Town Hall

Thu 23 December 2021 7:30pm Symphony Hall

The Best of John Williams

Grand Christmas Classic with Alan Titchmarsh

Tue 28 December 2021 7:30pm Symphony Hall

Sun 12 December 2021 3pm Symphony Hall

Carols by Candlelight

Ronan Keating: Twenty Twenty

Sat 18 December and Fri 24 December 2021 7:30pm and 2:30pm Symphony Hall

Thu 27 January 2022 7:30pm Symphony Hall

The Soul of Nina Simone with Black Voices Sun 19 December 2021 7:30pm Symphony Hall

Book Online: bmusic.co.uk

Test Match Special Tue 26 April 2022 7:30pm Symphony Hall

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

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DANCE HALL QUEEN SHENSEEA SHINES BRIGHT AT DUBAI’S ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL Article and Photos by Delroy Constantine-Simms, Article and Photo Edits by Albert M Carter

T

he All Africa Festival in Dubai at the weekend showcased a raft of great talent over three days. Rising dancehall artist, singer and songwriter Shenseea is worth a special mention though.

Her headlining performance on Friday 22 October was powerful

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and super fun – testament to her growth as an artist. With the iconic Burj Khalifa as a backdrop and over 3,000 people in the crowd at Burj Park, Shenseea stole the show.

Previous artists didn’t make it easy for Shenseea. Hometown heroes Freek, Jaysus Zain, MKO and Sammy Young proved that the UAE is a hotbed of musical talent. And Zimbabwe’s Gemma captured hearts.

But Shenseea lifted the vibe to the next level. Dressed in an eye-catching sheer shirt, leather pants and white Balenciaga boots, the Jamaican artist turned up the heat Hyped up by the crowd’s energy, Shenseea worked her hits including Be Good, The Side Chick Song and Run Run – the audience singing with her word for word.

Loving the crowd’s reaction, she hopped off the stage midperformance into the media pit so she could engage with her fans at eye level.

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Then Shenseea injected some extra off-the-cuff fun, calling for the crowd to find the best dancer.

Spotting a Nigerian dancer who had performed earlier, the

Billboard charting artist invited him on stage to teach her a few moves.

Much to the crowd’s delight, an impromptu dance lesson unfolded. The Kanye West collaborator proved she’s not just a great vocalist, picking up a few new dance moves within minutes.

Admitting she’s more known for her wordplay, she bust out an

impromptu freestyle – and the crowd went absolutely wild.

Shenseeas performance was sensational.She cemented her reputation as an artist on the rise.

She captivated the crowd. Here’s looking forward to more great music and future adrenalinefuelled shows from this true star.

CHAII Drops Hotly Anticipated New EP ‘Pineapple Pizza’ MULTIFACETED New Zealand-based artist CHAII has unveiled her new EP ‘Pineapple Pizza’, out now.

A six-track release, ‘Pineapple Pizza’ opens with the title track (which had its world premiere on Fortnite, a slick, percussionled R&B jam propelled by CHAII’s soaring vocals.

The EP also features the Kiwi-Persian artist’s three most recent singles, starting with ‘Get It Done’, a track that sees her unique, hypnotic flow take centre stage amidst a sparse, menacing production.

Then there is the swaggering ‘Oh Nah Yeah’ with US DJ and producer Party Favor (currently running in a KIA advert across the UK and Europe and ‘Might Just’, a collaboration with

Auckland rappers Kings and Eleven7Four that features quickfire bars and smooth, autotune vocals amidst a downbeat production.

Elsewhere, CHAII further demonstrates her rapping ability

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in an alternate version of ‘Might Just’, while Iranian rapper Chvrsi stars on ‘Mano Tou’, a track that offers a captivating exploration into her Iranian identity.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 21

HANGING OUT WITH HIGGINS

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MONTHLY COLUMN steve@stevehigginsproductions.com www.stevehigginsproductions.com

THE POCKET ROCKET!

S

ome people make it to the pinnacle of their career, celebrating unquestionable success and landmark achievement in their field of endeavour.

In addition to the victorious outcome, it is always instructive to look at the journey- the path towards the success – being just one of the stories behind the headlines. It is also enlightening to see what some achievers do with their success.

Jamaican Olympian, Ambassador Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has certainly made it to that peak of athletic success, being a six-time Olympian, and one of only three women in history to defend an Olympic 100m title. Indeed, at the World Athletics Championships, she is one of the most decorated athletes in history with 11 medals - nine gold and two silver. This is major cause for celebration!

“She is the only sprinter, male or female, to win four world titles in the 100m—in 2009, 2013, 2015 and 2019. Her win in 2019 at the age of 32 made her the oldest female sprinter, and the first mother in 24 years, to

l L-R:- Consul General of Jamaica to the Southeast. USA, Oliver Mair, Mayor Wayne Messam of Miramar, Ambassador Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce & Emcee Steve Higgins.

Mayor Messam won his bid for Shelly-Ann’s Wig! claim a global 100m title.

In 2013, she became the first woman to sweep the 100m, 200m and 4 × 100m at a single World Championship and was voted the IAAF World Athlete of The Year. In 2014, after winning the 60m world indoor title, she became the only woman to hold

UJAMAA!

O

ne cannot underscore enough, the importance of selfawareness, and all that goes with it.

Everything from your history, your values, your sense of self, your impact on all around you…

In fact, once you achieve your own spiritual evolution, it is crucial to share your wisdom with your offspring.

Long after his departure to higher service in the greater beyond, Anthony Harrison had such a vision. He traveled far and wide, was very well read, erudite, opinionated, loving and curious.

A well- spoken and welldressed gentleman, he

commanded respect wherever he went, and when engaged in conversation, his audience could be confident that multiple lessons were on their way.

Harrison took on his selfinflicted mandate to educate

his community, and thought with every fiber of his being, that black folks really need to be very aware of their history, particularly as it pertains to the African experience.

Anthony started by teaching his daughter Yvonne King and granddaughter Jasmine and Ayana, and began giving

World Championship titles in all four events at the same time”.

Recently in South Florida, I was delighted to have been the Emcee and singer at a wonderful event hosted by the City of Miramar. The occasion“An Evening with an Olympian”-, was a celebration of Ambassador

speeches at high schools, middle schools, and interest groups. He then started selling books – even from his car trunk!

Harrison traveled to Egypt with historians to find ‘the truth’, the Pyramids, the Pharos, did research, and then returned, seeking to decode and share black history with the youngsters in his reach.

One point of interest was that

one of the Pyramids bore the head of a man with Dreadlocks.

The pharaohs actually wore dreads, but their first literary mention is said to be in the Hindu Vedic scriptures dating from around 1700BC. It is said too that the God Shiva wore 'matted' dreadlocks.

Is that mainstream knowledge?

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, with a special focus on Shelly-Ann’s charity‘The Pocket Rocket Foundation’.

This moniker reflects her petite stature (pocket) and how quick she ‘took off’ from the starting blocks (rocket)! The Foundation is a sustainable Legacy program, granting scholarships to deserving youngsters who may not have the means to secure their education. You see, Shelly-Ann did not ‘make it’ all on her own, and she acknowledges that fact.

She grew up in Waterhouse, Jamaica, where opportunities for locals are not in abundance, and, but for outside support and sheer ambition and determination, one may not have many prospects to improve one’s lot.

Shelly is ever so grateful to those from that community and all the folks who believed in her, who stood up for her, who sponsored her, who walked the walk with her…and she did not let them down!

In fact, her Pocket Rocket Foundation seeks to pay it forward for Jamaican youth, particularly from the underserved areas of Jamaica, who are bursting with potential and talent

He placed an emphasis on black youth doing their own research on their own history, develop a sense of pride and dignity and not consume the version served by others.

So, what did he do? He opened his own bookstore in 1992 and called it UJAMAA (pro YU-Jamma). Later on in 2002, as he automated the store, he renamed it– “The African Bookstore”.

The Swahili word Ujamaa means 'extended family', 'brotherhood'; it asserts that a person becomes a person through the people or community.

“We strive to inspire each other to read; we believe in the educational process and the attainment of self-knowledge and enrichment” says Jasmine King, granddaughter of Anthony Harrison, who now runs the Bookstore.

“We are excited to be carrying on Dad’s legacy and

in the field of sports, and who deserve a fighting chance and need support to succeed. The aim here is simpleto achieve educational excellence through scholarships.

“When you are in that (marginalized) situation, you really don’t know that you can be successful”, said ShellyAnne in my interview with her. “I need to let them know- and show them- that there is a way out!”

The Red-Carpet event was attended by some of South Florida’s key dignitaries and elected officials of Jamaican descent, some of whom bestowed honours on our star athlete.

These included Commissioner Dale Holness (former Mayor of Broward County), who awarded Ambassador Fraser-Pryce the Keys to The City of Fort Lauderdale. The Mayor of Miramar, Wayne Messam also presented her with the Keys to the City of Miramar, while Commissioner Alexandra Davis presented a proclamation. The Consul General of Jamaica, Oliver Mair, who was in attendance, presented her with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Unique items were auctioned, such as Shelly-Anne’s spikes, her wig, her gears, paintings and much more, with all proceeds going to the Foundation’s scholarship fund. Patrons were encouraged to donate to the Foundation online. The evening saw performances

by King Banton, April Marr & Steve Higgins.

Please log onto www.

PocketRocketFoundation.net and donate to Shell-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s Pocket Rocket Foundation!

l Steve and Shelly-Ann

look forward to engaging more young people of all ethnicities, who are interested in our history and indeed the truth!”

Since his passing, Anthony Harrison’s physical store has been closed, but his online African Bookstore is alive and well, awaiting the eager eyes of our curious generations to consume serious knowledge.

Jasmine’s hope is to fulfil her grandfather’s dream to establish an ‘extended family’a Brotherhood, for all folks of African descent primarily, and indeed the rest of mankind.

Encourage the youth in your orbit to log on, purchase even ONE book and learn about themselves. Better yet, as Christmas approaches, give a gift of wisdom!

Why not visit them at www.africanbookstore.net/ and join in supporting the African Worldwide experience!

l Anthony Harrison

l Jasmine King

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Food & Fine Dining New street food brand bringing the carnival to Birmingham

N

ew street food inspired brand Carnival Kitchen brought the carnival to central Birmingham, giving consumers the chance to try its new range first-hand.

Brindley Place, Birmingham was the third stop on the brand’s carnival on tour road trip, with

Carnival Kitchen also making an appearance in London and Manchester this month. Its team arrive in style in a branded Tuk Tuk and was accompanied by a steel band and carnival dancers, to celebrate the recent launch into UK Waitrose and Asda stores.

Consumers and passers-by

got the opportunity to sample Carnival Kitchen's street food inspired flatbreads, pies and bites with explosive flavours from India, Thailand, Mexico and the East Coast, USA – including a Philly Steak & Cheese Pie, Tandoori Chicken Pie, Jerk Chicken Flatbread, Red Thai Pork Flatbread as well as

Piri Piri Chicken and Cheese & Jalapeño bites.

Mike Holton, brand manager at Carnival Kitchen, said: “It’s fantastic that we were able to bring the carnival directly to consumers, across London, Manchester and Birmingham, to give them a chance to sample our delicious range of street food inspired products.

“Our event helped local communities get into the carnival spirit and featured a showstopping Carnival Kitchen Tuk Tuk, steel band and carnival street dancers to catch people’s eyes and ears. The event was a great way to bring the brand and its products to life, and we were delighted to see so many people getting involved and trying the products.

“We’ve enjoyed seeing all of you this month, at our three hotspot locations, and hope many of you got the chance to see our branded Tuk Tuk, performers and team in action as they created a carnival atmosphere in the heart of city centres.”

The range is now available at selected Waitrose and Asda stores across the UK.

Chilli No. 5 launches Christmas Box gift set

FOR AN ideal spicy present for gourmet foodies Chilli No. 5 has launched its spicy Christmas Box Gift Set, guaranteed to delight the most discerning gourmands this festive season.

The Christmas Box Gift Set is filled with a selection of Chilli No. 5's most iconic products offering a fantastic flight of hot sauces to spice up a variety of cuisines. Inside gourmands will find: - Limited Edition gourmet chilli sauce Devilish Dijon - Full size 200 ml chilli sauce bottles Ever So English

- Full size 200 ml bottle Mexican Fury - Full size 200 ml bottle Pizza Pizzazz - Full size pouch Jamaican Jerk - Chilli No. 5 Chilli Flakes - Miniature Pizza Pizzaz and Sriracha Cha Cha Cha The limited-edition hot sauces are guaranteed to be the talking point of this superb gift set. Devilish Dijon is a hot sauce that seriously cuts the mustard. Perfect for pairing with a juicy steak, ribs, or as a flavoursome marinade.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 23

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www.streetcredmagazine.com Article by Delroy Constantine-Simms Pics by Kwame Makure

H

l L-R Donna Oluban, Carlos Acosta and Dawn Jenks; Image: Johnathan Williams

CARLOS ACOSTA UNVEILS CADBURY WORLD’S CRACKING CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE CREATION

C

arlos Acosta and Cadbury World’s chocolatiers have revealed a Nutcrackerthemed chocolate masterpiece, to mark the return of The Nutcracker in Birmingham this week.

Produced by Dawn Jenks and Donna Oluban over two days, the festive creation weighs around 7kg – the equivalent of 155 of standard bars of Cadbury Dairy Milk.

The Bournville-based attraction’s talented chocolatiers worked with solid milk chocolate to shape the Nutcracker’s figure, which stands at an incredible 70cm tall. Black coloured cocoa butter was used to produce his hat, hair, moustache, beard, shoes, as well as his belt and trousers.

Dawn and Donna created the distinctive jacket by adding a layer of red and blue cocoa butter onto his upper body.

The chocolatiers dusted the jacket fringes and buttons with edible gold glitter, before adding gold lustre to the sword to create a final flourish.

The nutcracker’s face was also hand-painted with liquid cocoa butter to produce his skin tone and

features.

The creation was produced in celebration of Birmingham Royal Ballet bringing Sir David Bintley’s Royal Albert Hall production of The Nutcracker to Birmingham Hippodrome this Christmas. This marks the first time this version of the iconic production has been performed outside of London.

The chocolate creation will be on display at Birmingham Hippodrome for visitors to see throughout the run of The Nutcracker, from Saturday November 20 – Saturday December 11.

Diane Mitchell, marketing manager at Cadbury World, commented: “Our artistic chocolatiers are renowned for making magnificent creations to mark a vast variety of special occasions, and this latest masterpiece demonstrates their creativity and talent.

“We’re delighted to welcome The Nutcracker back to Birmingham and couldn’t be happier to be part of the celebrations. Our chocolate creation will be on display at Birmingham Hippodrome from November 20 – we can’t wait for everyone to see him!”

eld under the theme 'There's always a right book', The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2021 (Nov 3rd-Nov 13th) hosted a record number of awardwinning black authors.

The most prominent being, Tanzanian novelist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature 2021 Abdulrazak Gurnah, Trevor Noah, the South African comedian, television host, and political commentator and Chris Gardner, the international bestselling author, entrepreneur and award-winning film producer.

The Black Book Collective Director, Christopher Sill, said, “We were not sure how the Arab publishing community would react to a book pavilion, with only Black authors, but we are absolutely thrilled with the unexpected positive reception received from the media, publishers, retailers and the reading public, including the festival organisers.”

Publishers, literature agents, retailers were able to meet multiaward-winning Black authors, such as Delroy ConstantineSimms, Maureen DrackettFuller, Heath Bailey, Kande Summers, Albert M. Carter, Kai Brackett, Rasheem Mays-Fowler, Samantha Rodgers, Camelle Daley, Cornell Thomas, Juliet Ibrahim, Jasmine Smith, John I. Jones, LaToya Lewis, Jae Harriet Jones, Denise James, Daniel Sarapong, Bralade KoroyeEmenanjo.

Maureen Drackett-Fuller, author and teacher, said” I feel proud that my work is represented in the Middle East, it’s absolutely amazing.

In support, author Samantha Rodgers, said, “It’s really heart warming to see so many Black authors at this event, but I have to admit that I was surprised that SIBF endorsed a very black book agenda and I thank them for their vision and support.”

In respect of local black representation at the (SIBF) none of the Black authors were Emiratis. School principal and

BLACK AUTHORS MAKE THEIR MARK AT THE SHARJAH INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR (SIBF) author Heath Bailey said, “life for long established Black Emiratis is complicated, by their history of enslavement and current social status.

However, an event like this where unapologetically black representation is applauded, Black Emiratis children who often feel underrepresented have secretly told me that the Black Book Collective presence at the (SIBF) has inspired them to

change their narrative by making their own Black Emirati mark in the literary world.

The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) emerged as the world’s largest book fair this year, attracting the participation of 546 publishers and literary agents from 83 countries looking to do business with each other.

Commenting on the achievement, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of

SBA, said: “The new record is a local, regional and international achievement that could not have been realised without the continuing support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who firmly believes that building strong societies and civilisations can only be achieved through knowledge and books.”

Ingrid Michaelson’s songs for the season out now THE PATRON saint of charming Christmas tunes, Ingrid Michaelson has released her highly awaited holiday project titled, ‘Ingrid Michaelson’s Songs For The Season – Deluxe Edition.’

Originally released in October 2018, the record’s new deluxe edition of her festive ‘Ingrid Michaelson’s Songs For The Season’ features five new tracks – including a previously released single ‘Christmas Valentine’ featuring Jason Mraz, that has since amassed over 45 million streams.

“When I released my first

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Christmas album in 2018, I already knew there would one day be a deluxe. And here we are! Anyone who knows me knows that I start celebrating Christmas in September and I cherish this time of the year so very much,” Ingrid explains.

“I have added three classics and two originals (one with another self-proclaimed Christmas lover Zooey Deschanel) to create an even greater festive experience!

It was very important to me to keep everything in this vintage/ nostalgic world.”

Standout tracks on the spirited collection include ‘Merry

Christmas, Happy New Year (Feat. Zooey Deschanel)’ - soon to be a catchy Christmas classic, with the two beloved vocalists sharing their favourite things about the season over bright jingling bells.

The track is accompanied by an undeniably adorable stop motion visual featuring a bundled-up rabbit spreading holiday joy.

Plus, there’s the Andrews Sisters inspired rendition of ‘Winter Wonderland,’ a dazzling retro rendition featuring carolling sweet three-part harmonies.

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(Merry Christm

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mas)

ONE AT THE WSPAPER

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COMPETITION

Enjoy Christmas Preserving Classes With Doyenne

F

rom fruit and spice infused liqueurs and cordials through to mustards, chutneys and of course Christmas mincemeat, learn how to make festive preserves to serve at Christmas, or a gift to friends and family, with leading expert, Rosie Jameson.

Rosie is the founder of Rosie's Preserving School, the UK's first and only online cookery school dedicated to preserving.

In her laidback inimitable style, Rosie's Christmas workshops will show you how to make your own festive drinks such as marmalade gin and Black Velvet (made from blackberries), an array of lastminute Christmas gift ideas and a fruit mincemeat recipe which is

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vegan, zero fat, but big on flavour.

Take part on your own, get some friends in your kitchen with your favourite Christmas tipple, or if it's not possible to be together in person, arrange a virtual Christmas social and take part from your own homes.

Workshops are priced at £20 for an individual class or £49.90 for the full season of six. Each workshop is 90 minutes long and can be viewed live or watched at a later date.

Rosie's Christmas Preserving Workshops: • 17/11/21 – Marjorie's Mincemeat • 24/11/21 – Drinks for Christmas • 01/12/21 – Last Minute Gifts • 08/12/21 – Red Onion Relish • 15/12/21 – Prunes in Armagnac

and more Prunes! Who knew they could be so delicious. Quick last minute makes that will go straight onto the 'must makes' list of the future.

These prunes are so delicious, you could even have them on your porridge if no one is looking!

Appearing at food fairs, shows and even on Japan's equivalent of The One Show, Rosie learnt how to make preserves at her mother's knee and has been a passionate advocate for these traditional, but relevant skills ever since.

Her life’s mission is to pass on preserving techniques and recipes to others and founded ‘Rosie's Preserving School’ to help do this.

She is inspiring people to have a go at making their own jam and preserves.

S

hare the love this season, with the New Grace Smoked Leg Ham. These fully cooked, bonein, traditional Jamaican style leg cuts from Grace Foods, the UK’s number 1 supplier of Caribbean food and drink, are the perfect centrepiece for your Christmas dinner.

Featuring an authentic flavour, staying tender and juicy with a 'Ham-azing' taste!

These hams are full cooked, and frozen, ready to be enjoyed hot or cold, and tailored to suit your tastes by adding your own glazes!

With each ham approximately 2.5kg, there will be more than enough for even the hungriest

of families, and if you're lucky, leftovers too!

These are perfect for sharing with family and loved ones this Christmas!

Grace Foods have been generous enough to give 5 of our readers a Smoked Leg Ham, delivered in time for Christmas! To find out how to enter, check out below!

Prime Video Reveals Official Trailer For Season One Of The New Series 'Harlem'

T

he official trailer for Season One of the new series Harlem, from Tracy Oliver of Girls Trip, is now live!

Also available is the series’ official key art, photographed

by Adrienne Raquel, along with a special artist poster commissioned by New York artist Jade Purple Brown.

The Amazon Original singlecamera comedy (with all 10 episodes available exclusively on Prime Video) is in more than 240 countries and territories around the world.

Created, written, and executive produced by Oliver, Harlem is a new comedy following a group of stylish and ambitious best girlfriends in Harlem, New York City, the mecca of Black culture in America.

Camille is a popular young anthropology professor at Columbia who has an extensive knowledge of the dating norms of many cultures, but has a hard time navigating her own love life; Tye is a successful, queer dating-app creator who prefers keeping vulnerability—and

HOW TO ENTER

For your chance to win one of 5 Grace Traditional Bone-In Smoked Leg Hams delivered to you just in time for Christmas, just answer this simple question!

What vegetable would traditionally be used for the nose of a snowman? a) Sprout b) Carrot c) Beetroot romantic partners—at arm’s length; Quinn is a hopeless romantic and trust-fund fashion designer who is trying to give back to the world while running a struggling business; Angie is a confident, vibrant, and filter-free

singer and actress who also lives rent-free and fabulously with Quinn. Together, they level up from their 20s into the next phase of their careers, relationships, and big city dreams.

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Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Grace Christmas Hams Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 14th December 2021. There is no cash alternative.

For more delicious Caribbean recipes, visit Grace Foods UK at www.gracefoods.co.uk and @gracefoods.uk on Facebook and Instagram

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The Adele hype and why we all want to be part of it

S

tephanie Fremaux, pop music researcher at Birmingham City University, says that singer-songwriter Adele is creating a type of hype that will further add to the herdlike mentality of the public.

“While I would be wrong of me to call myself a fan, I am a great admirer of Adele’s work and I think that the new album will be a commercial success if not a critical one,” says Fremaux, whose research examines how music artists establish and reinforce aspects of their character through performance.

“The first single from Adele’s long-awaited ‘30’ album, ‘Easy On Me’, speaks to our troubled Covid times with its themes of love and loss and she is displaying a vocal and thematic maturity to rival

Amy Winehouse’s ‘Back to Black’ album.

“When thinking of Madonna’s output like ‘Papa Don’t Preach’, ‘Like A Prayer,’ and ‘Justify My Love,’ Adele could perhaps be considered to be the millennials’ Madonna.

“The social media c o v e r a g e surrounding the release of new Adele music is a sign of our times and by

harnessing the social media outlets, Adele is creating a type of hype that will further add to the herd-like mentality of the public. Because, we as a people like to be part of a movement.

Like making Rage Against the Machine a Christmas number one or getting behind Captain Sir Tom

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Moore’s fundraising efforts for the NHS. “In the lead up to the album release, we’ve seen Adele sharing personal messages online about the stories behind her new music and there is a real authenticity here.

In our age of celebrity culture, people will find her stark honesty refreshing.

She will most certainly be nominated for both a Grammy and BRIT award.

Adele has become a national and global treasure, who can do no wrong.

“Even if the album isn’t very good, people will still buy into all the hype because of her legacy and the need to have been a part of it.”

FESTIVE GIFT FAIR

F

estive shoppers from around the UK and beyond descended on Birmingham's NEC this November to get their fill of Christmas songs, Photo ops with Santa and the Grinch, and of course, Christmas presents.

The Present Creche was bulging as shoppers grabbed goodies for their loved ones, and for their own

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cupboards, from a wide selection of amazing wares. From perfumes to handmade wooden trinkets, to samosas and fur-lined ponchos, there was something for everyone during this welcome return to the Festive Gift Fair.

This really is a great day out for the family, and especially so if you want to get your Christmas shopping done early!

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THE RISE IN VALUE OF GHOSTBUSTERS ECTO-1

W

h e n Ghostbusters hit cinemas in 1984 it went on to become a cultural phenomenon thanks to a ground-breaking blend of comedy, science fiction, horror and action.

The second biggest film of 1984, Ghostbusters grossed

A

lfa Romeo Racing ORLEN driver, Antonio Giovinazzi, will leave the team at the end of the 2021 Formula One championship, following three seasons with the team.

Antonio became the first Italian to compete in a full F1 season since 2011 when he lined up for the team on the grid in Melbourne in 2019.

He has taken part in 59 races with the Swiss - Italian team so far, including two for Sauber in 2017, when he made his debut in place of the injured Pascal Wehrlein.

Antonio is a driver who is very popular with both the team and fans alike. He has been an incredible professional throughout his experience with the team, contributing to its growth and always giving 100% both on and off the track.

His best result was fifth in the

$295 million (£219m) in its first run and is often considered one of the first movie blockbusters.

There was a sequel in 1989, a reboot in 2016 and now, nearly 30 years after the original, Ghostbusters: Afterlife has just been released.

According to the Hagerty valuations department, one of

the cars from the film was offered within US magazine Hemmings for $149,998 (£111,514) in 2007.

One year later and another of the cars, apparently made for the Universal Studios theme park in Florida, was offered on eBay for $45,000 (£33,454).

Just two years after that, possibly one of those same cars

sold at a Barrett-Jackson auction for $88,000 (£65,437).

Prices were clearly on the up more than a decade ago. In

the intervening years, they’ve rocketed. For a genuine movie car, with a certified history, Hagerty now estimates the value to be in excess of $500,000 (£371,821).

As with so many great films, one of the stars of Ghostbusters was a car: a 1959 Cadillac, better known as Ecto-1. The car has gone on to attain cult status, which means that the original prop cars used in the production of Ghostbusters have become highly prized, and valuable too.

At the same time, a thriving market in replica Ectomobiles has sprung up.

Hagerty Editor, James Mills, said of the Ghostbusters star car “It’s spooky just how wellknown Ecto-1 is. Ghostbusters made it one of the most famous movie cars ever to emerge from a props department. Despite its place in pop culture, few film fans will be aware of the values of an Ectomobile; the real-deal could be worth up to half a million dollars, and even replica examples are valuable. Owners should make sure they’re insured for the correct sum, or they could be in for a nasty fright.”

ALFA ROMEO THANKS ANTONIO GIOVINAZZI 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix, and he has given the team many special moments, including leading the race under the lights of Singapore in his debut season and hauling the car into Q3 several times this season.

Alfa Romeo wishes Antonio, a great team-mate and a fantastic person, the best for his future endeavours as he embarks on a new chapter of his career.

Jean Philippe Imparato, CEO Alfa Romeo: “Alfa Romeo is extremely grateful to Antonio Giovinazzi for his strong contribution to the team over the years, not just from a sporting point of view.

Antonio has embodied the Italian spirit of the Brand, being an authentic ambassador every day.

“It is no coincidence that it was Alfa Romeo who brought an Italian driver back to F1 after

eight years and that Antonio has been the only Italian driver in the championship for three years.

"We are proud to have written together an important chapter in the glorious Alfa Romeo sporting history. We wish Antonio all the best for his future.”

Frédéric Vasseur, Team Principal Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN: “Saying goodbye to a driver is never easy, especially so in the case of Antonio, who has been part of the team for so long. As we part ways, we will cherish the memories of the good times and learn lessons from the bad ones, knowing these moments all made us grow together as a team. We wish Antonio the best for his future after the 2021 season: before then, we still have three races to achieve some good results together and finish the year strongly.”

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MOTORS

The UK’s First Flying Taxi Hub Set To Be Built In Coventry THE WORLD’S first urban airport dedicated to electric air-taxis and drones has received funding from the UK government.

Called Air-One, the transport hub is set to open - as part of Coventry’s ‘City of Culture’ celebrations - in November. Its creators, a new company called Urban Air Port, will use the event to demonstrate how an off-grid, hydrogen-powered urban airport would work.

In essence, the site would provide a space for the charging and loading of drones that would ferry deliveries around the city. This could ease congestion in city places packed with delivery vans and therefore improve air quality.

The project also has ambitions to host electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), which could shuttle passengers into the city centre and back.

Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

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FULL CAST AND CREW ANNOUNCED FOR CINDERELLA

W

olverhampton Grand Theatre has announced today the full cast, crew and creative team for the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella from Saturday 4 December 2021 – Sunday 9 January 2022.

The previously announced AJ and Curtis Pritchard (Prince Charming and Dandini), Denise Pearson (Fairy Godmother) and Evie Pickerill (Cinderella) are joined by Tam Ryan (Buttons), Ian Adams (Dame Penny Pockets), Ella Biddlecombe and Britt Lenting (Wicked Stepsisters) and Julie Stark (Wicked Stepmother).

The ensemble is; Laura Marie Benson, Chloe Evans, Sophie

Sheridan, Eddie Slattery, Philip Town and Michael Dean-Wilson.

The band are Norman Hogg, Simon Crick, Matt Firkins and Wesley Wood under the Musical Direction of Michael Baxter.

The Creative Team are Will Brenton (Script Writer and Director), Racky Plews (Choreographer), Eddie Slattery (Assistant to the Choreographer), Steve Power (Musical Arranger), Andy Nurse (Production Manager), Mark Walters (Set Design), Ben Harrison (Sound Designer), Jamie Corbidge (Lighting Design) and Nina Dunn (Video Design).

Adrian Jackson, Chief Executive & Artistic Director of the Grand Theatre said; “We are delighted

to be able to present Cinderella and bring the much-loved magic of pantomime back to the Grand Theatre and to the city of Wolverhampton. I know this year’s production will be spectacular, aided by a wonderful company who are eager to entertain audiences throughout the festive period”.

Cinderella will be produced by Imagine Theatre, in partnership with Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Both Imagine Theatre and Wolverhampton Grand have a rich history of producing topquality entertainment and together will form a perfect partnership.

The headline sponsor for Cinderella will be Dudley Zoo & Castle.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 31

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(Christmas Blessings) GRAND CHRISTMAS CLASSICS WITH ALAN TITCHMARSH

A

re you looking for the perfect end-of-year festive outing?

Make some space in your calendar to experience this exciting concert of festive classics, which features seasonal favourites such as White Christmas, Joy to the World and O Holy Night plus traditional carols such as Hark!

The Herald Angels Sing, O Come, All Ye Faithful and The First Noel.

Join Alan Titchmarsh, one of the UK’s favourite personalities and broadcasters, as he leads you through this superb concert full of Christmas spirit and classics,

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accompanied by soloists and a fullorchestra live on stage!

The Philharmonia Orchestra will perform at the debut show at the Royal Festival Hall on the evening of the 9th December, with the Birmingham Symphony Hall concert on the 12th December set to feature amazing regional musicians and singers including The City of Birmingham Choir and the Quiristers of Winchester College.

Joining Alan at Bridgewater Hall on 20th December will be the Manchester Concert Orchestra and Manchester Chorale.

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Nanny Mavis Gillespie

M

y Nan! She gave 89 years of life. She gave me my best memories as a child – when I spent my early years with her – and all the tears since - when I would make it my duty to visit her on a regular basis.

I will miss her exceptionally delicious cakes, which she always made for me on every birthday and Christmas – and the weeks and months in between.

As her first grandchild I am blessed to have that moniker and I ‘wore’ it with immense pride as, for me, she was just the most the most loving, learned and ‘giving’ of grandparents anyone could ever wish for. This one left me breathless and emotionally drained. I can only my family for holding me together where they themselves could.

Her lash wish, before she fell to sleep for the last time, was that we – her children, grandchildren

O

and great grandchildren – all stay united. I also have to thank her pastor, for putting us all at ease with his poignant and moving prayer.

It just leaves me to say: “Nam, give my love to Granddad. And, as a family, we will stay together so that the Gillespie can remain strong.

United We Will Stand Always!!!

From your 1st R.I.P. Nanny Mavis Gillespie (1931-2021).

Mark Dwayne Gillespie.

Marilia Mendonça

ne of Brazil's most popular singers, she as killed in a plane crash officials say.

Born in Cristianópolis, she became famous for focusing on women's experiences with failed relationships, releasing her selfnamed debut EP in 20215. But she gained prominence after releasing her first eponymous live album in 2016.

Known as the ‘Queen of Suffering’, she started her career as a teenager, and became a national star in 2016 with a hit about infidelity.

Last year, during the pandemic, she performed a series of online gigs - one setting the record of the most-watched live stream in the world, with 3.3 million peak viewers on YouTube. In 2020, she was the most listened to artist in Brazil on Spotify.

The mother of a two-year-old

son was set to perform at a concert in the city of Caratinga, 12km from the crash site. She was 26.

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ne of the founding member of reggae-pop band UB40, which sold more than 70 million records and had three UK No.1 hits.

Real name Terence Wilson, he was one of the original members of the he Birmingham-based group - named after the then government's unemployment benefit form – which, he recalled, was the voice of knowledgeable working-class dissatisfaction with a variety of political and global issues. The band had worldwide success with hits such as ‘Kingston Town,’ ‘Red Red Wine,’ ‘Here I Am (Come And Take Me),’ ‘I Got You Babe’ and ‘(I Can't Help) Falling In Love’.

A band member for over 30 years, the saxophonist, and lyricist went on to perform with breakaway group UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Mickey Virtue which was set to go on tour next

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year.

Married, he is survived by wife, Dawn, and daughter Kaya. He was 64.

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Penny Holbrook

much-loved Birmingham councillor, the Labour stalwart represented Stockland Green in Erdington after being elected there in 2003.

She lost the seat in 2008 to Tory opponent, Matt Bennett, but, in 2010, took back Stockland Green with 1760 more votes than her closest rival - retaining the ward ever since. She also sat as Chair of Housing and Neighbourhoods Overview & Scrutiny Committee.

Raised in Falcon Lodge, in Sutton Coldfield, she attended John Wilmott School before joining the council, in 2003, aged just 25 - representing Stockland Green ever since. She spent nearly two decades of public service representing, fighting and supporting the protection of the most vulnerable.

She was a former member of the city's cabinet leadership team

second tier - with Thistle in 1976 and Hibs in 1981.

Married to Liz, with two children, he was suffering with dementia before dying, age 83.

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he former Wolves midfielder was a nonplaying member of the England squad which won the 1966 World Cup. He was awarded a winners' medal in 2009.

Born in Edlington, South Yorkshire, the midfielder began his career in the Doncaster Rovers academy. Whilst there, he also trained as an apprentice at the Doncaster rail sheds.

He signed for Wolves a year later where he also served in the RAF - becoming an Aircraftman Second Class. There, he won three

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league championships and an FA Cup - making 515 appearances for the club.

His grandson, Harry, was signed

by Premier League side Burnley and his sister-in-law is former darts World Champion Maureen Flowers.

Winning 49 caps and scoring ten goals (two goals in the 1962 World Cup). After he retired, he created Ron Flowers Sports - a sportswear and school uniform supplier in Wolverhampton.

Married to wife, Yvonne, they had one child – son Glenn. He was 87.

and missed out on taking on the leadership by a single vote in 2015 and was praised then, and since, for her honesty and for championing the worst off.

She died suddenly, aged 43.

Lionel Blair

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Ron Flowers MBE

birthday and a foundation against domestic violence was established in her honour. Athletics Kenya announced that the Kenyan leg of the World Cross Country Tour was named after her.

More than 1,000 mourners, including fellow athletes, gathered for the funeral of a rising star in Kenya’s highly competitive athletics scene.

Her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, appeared in court as a suspect in her killing. She was 26.

OBITUARIES

Bertie Auld

ne of Celtic's Lisbon Lions, he played in the side that lifted the European Cup in 1967 as the first from Britain to win the European Cup with a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan before also losing the 1970 final to Feyenoord.

He also helping Birmingham City reach the 1960-61 InterCities Fairs Cup, where they lost to 4-2 to Roma.

The Glasgow-born, known as ‘Mr Celtic’, won five league titles, three Scottish Cups and four League Cups at Parkhead.

The former midfielder spent four years with Birmingham City between two spells with the Glasgow club before finishing his playing days with Hibernian.

Capped three times for Scotland, he twice managed Partick Thistle as well as Hibs, Hamilton Academical and Dumbarton. As a manager, he twice won Scotland's

Agnes Tirop

promising long-distance runner who recently broke the women-only 10km world record, she was stabbed to death in her home.

Born in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, on October 1995, she finished fourth in the 2020 Olympic 5,000m and who had won World Athletics Championships bronze medals.

She was buried at her parents' home in Nandi County, on what would have been her 26th

Astro

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 33

est known in recent years when he acted in Ricky Gervais's Extras, the veteran entertainer, dancer and TV presenter also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother.

Born in Montreal, Canada, in a stage and screen career that spanned eight decades, he became a household name as team captain on ITV's long-running Give Us A Clue.

A self-taught dancer – who was inspired by watching Fred Astaire

and Ginger Rogers at the cinema – he began working as an actor, age 14, appearing in musicals with sister Joyce. In 1961 he took part in a comedic dance-off against Sammy Davis Jr at the Royal Variety Performance, which ensured his presence as a regular on the bill at future royal shows before becoming a choreographer.

Married to Susan Davis, they had three children and three grandchildren. He was 92.

Frederik Willem de Klerk

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outh Africa's last apartheid president, he ordered Nelson Mandela's release from prison, leading to historic polls where the antiapartheid leader became the first Back president.

They later shared the Nobel Peace Prize for helping to negotiate an end to apartheid, but his legacy divides opinion in the country.

He won a parliamentary seat for the National Party, which had introduced the system of apartheid in 1948 - serving in several ministerial posts before taking

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over as the head of the party. In 1989 he became president.

A firm believer in apartheid, after coming to power he publicly called for a non-racist South Africa.

In 1990 he ordered Mandela's release from prison after 27 years - bringing an end to apartheid-era South Africa. He then became one of the country's two deputy presidents after the multi-party elections in 1994 that saw Mandela become president.

He died after being diagnosed with cancer. He was 85.

Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Nurse Wins UK's Leading Poetry Prize Disabled Girl Shortlisted For National Charity Award THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Olivia Rudge, from Cradley Heath in the West Midlands, has been shortlisted for an award by the national disability charity, Sense.

The nomination recognises the challenges she has overcome since the Covid pandemic and the progress she has made with her development.

Olivia, who is non-verbal and has multiple disabilities, has been shortlisted for the ‘Young Person of the Year’ award at the annual Sense Awards. When the pandemic began, Olivia’s support ceased and her routine was turned upside down, leaving her upset and frustrated as she couldn’t understand the situation.

Her nomination for the Sense Awards follows last year’s win for her mum, Sam Rudge, who won the 2020 ‘Family Carer of the Year’ Award for her commitment to go above and beyond when caring fulltime for Olivia.

FREE MENTAL HEALTH CONFERENCE TO HELP BUILD MENTAL RESILIENCE

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Sandwell charity is hosting a free virtual conference to help people better understand mental health and support those who might be struggling.

The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, a leading mental health charity based in West Bromwich, will host the free two-day Mending Minds Conference between 26 and 27 January 2022. People with a general interest in mental

health, including healthcare professionals, students and business owners, are invited to attend to learn more about building mental resilience.

Keynote speakers from around the world will share their own experiences of mental ill health and the coping mechanisms they have used. Speakers include Former SAS leader and star of SAS: Who Dares Wins, Colin Maclachlan, British Paralympian Wendy Smith and former

England Test Cricketer Matthew Hoggard.

Gary Wheway, Head of Business Development and Fundraising said: “Our Mending Minds conference will be home to a number of speakers who each have an incredible story to tell about their own mental health struggles and how they overcame them. There will also be workshops and wellbeing sessions which, in turn, will help you to build mental health

resilience.”

Across the two days there will be coping strategy workshops to give attendees guidance and support to help them cope with feelings of anxiety, stress and burnt out.

A series of wellbeing sessions will also be delivered by the charity’s own team of experts to help ensure people can look after themselves both now and in the future.

FILIPINO-BORN, Romalyn Ante spent the past 18 months working as a fulltime NHS nurse in Wolverhampton during the Covid pandemic, despite not being able to have the covid jab.

In her spare time, she writes poetry and last year published her first collection of poetry Antiemetic for Homesickness with Penguin. Topics her poetry tackles include women and stereotypes of healing and nursing, immigrant homesickness, Covid & shielding and writing in a second language.

Alongside Romalyn, the two other recipients of the prize include British-Ghanian poet Dzifa Benson, whose work explores colonialism and the Black British experience and Jamie Hale, a trans poet, disabled through a near death experience in Brazil, who creates poetry using a ventilator and is a campaigner for disability rights and also had to shield during Covid because of their health conditions.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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l Sherril Donaldson – NU:GEN CARE CIC

Voice For Our Black Elders

A Time Of Awakening

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s we approach the end of 2021 it’s hard not to reflect on the many challenges our community has experienced over the past 12 months.

It could be argued and, rightly so, we have been facing challenges for decades. But, the inequalities have been amplified in every corner of our lives as the impact of the Black Lives Matter campaign, the death of George Floyd and the voices of many high profile black people speaking out about the subject.

On a personal level, I have said goodbye and mourned the death of numerous people in my immediate community. Those deaths have included elders from Covid19 and the shocking suicide of two youngers. Our community has been devastated by those deaths and I know that experience has been replicated across the county.

So, how do we manage the many emotions of sadness, fear, frustration, anger and hopelessness? For me, and many of my peers and friends, we have had to look at the positives that have emerged from those fatalities and the awakening, through campaigning, that’s currently happening.

For me, the most impactful change over the last year is the growth in the number of individuals and groups that have recognised the need to raise their voices and demand changes in how we are treated, how policies are constructed and evaluated, how we are included in meaningful discussions, how we benefit from being an integral part of society and the power of our collective voice.

I view those changes, and many more, as the way we can ensure we ‘change the landscape of care for our Black Elders and our community’. Finally, it appears that more of ‘us’ are taking a person responsibility

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 35

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Report Reveals Black Women Four Times More Likely To Die In Childbirth

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lack women are more than four times more likely to die in pregnancy or childbirth than white women in the UK, a review of 2017-2019 deaths shows.

The Mbrrace report found women from Asian backgrounds are almost twice as likely to die as white women.

University of Oxford researchers say for the vast majority of people, pregnancy remains very safe in the UK. But despite slight decreases in the maternal death rate in recent years, there have

been no significant improvements to these rates since the 2010 to 2012 period.

Their current report shows heart disease, epilepsy and stroke continue to be the most common causes of death. And they say in some 37% of cases, improvements in care may have made a difference to the outcome.

The report shows the risk of dying in pregnancy or the year after childbirth, for women is: • White groups - about seven in 100,000 • Asian - 12 in 100,000 • Mixed ethnicity - 15 in 100,000

• Black groups - about 32 in 100,000 The report does not look directly at the individual reasons behind the disparities. However, researchers acknowledge that addressing wider cultural and structural biases affecting women's care on the basis of their pregnancy, or the potential to become pregnant, is fundamental to the prevention of maternal mortality.

of change in our own hands and not waiting for a ‘saviour’ to come along to pick up our cause of ‘utopian equality’ and magically get it done!

Another positive awaking of the last 12 months, for me and a number of my peers, has been the sudden realisation that we are now regarded as an ‘Elder’, wow, that’s some awakening.

During a project I have been involved in, ‘Windrush in Warwickshire’, many of us reflecting on the past 5 decades, suddenly realised we were now at the same age as those we used to call our elders.

For me, that was quite a paradigm shift. I asked myself and my peers, ‘what have we done to facilitate change for our community?’, ‘what have we done to challenge the many inequalities we face in health, education etc?’

Many of us were able to list our involvement and creation of numerous Community Projects, attending protests, initiating campaigns, job resignations, fights and much more.

Regardless of what we did there is sstill a lot more to be done.

Regardless of age, those are questions we all need to be asking ourselves. The honest answers you give yourself, I hope, will help you to make some decision about what and how you can help in our journey to continue to ‘..make changes to the landscape of care for our elders and our community‘, and add your voice to the voices of the elders in the community.

WE need to work together to identify our pressure points and the existing organisations in a position to lead a movement to alleviate those challenges.

So, I ask you to contact me with your thoughts on the way forward and topics for discussion in this column to ensure we change the landscape of care for our elders.

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Lead researcher, Prof Marian Knight, said: "Pregnant women get inequitable care for several reasons. Healthcare professionals often attribute their symptoms to pregnancy alone and they do not always end up getting the treatment they need because people can be incorrectly concerned about giving them medication It all adds up."

Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

AZUZA STREET

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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CELEBRATIONS MARK BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF GURU NANAK, THE FOUNDER OF SIKHISM

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he Sikh Yatrees attended a 10-day celebration marking the 552nd birth anniversary of Gurū Nānak Dev Ji in Nankana Sahib.

As the celebrations of the Sikhism founder’s birth anniversary started, Sikh pilgrims from across the world continued pouring in Pakistan with the high-level government functionaries receiving pilgrims and overseeing arrangements to ensure a safe stay in the country.

Said to have travelled far and wide across Asia teaching people the message of ik onkar, Gurū Nānak was the founder of Sikhism and is the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.

His birth is celebrated worldwide as Guru Nanak Gurpurab on the 'full-moon of Kattak'.

Viewed as a symbol of peace and servicing, his teachings are based on the principles of quality, goodness, and virtue, wit his teachings preserved in Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism as well as setting up various social, political and spiritual platforms based on the principles he practised and preached.

Part of the Sikh religious belief that the spirit of Nanak's sanctity, divinity, and religious authority had descended upon each of the nine subsequent Gurus when the Guruship was devolved on to them, Nanak's words are registered in the form of 974 poetic hymns, or shabda, in the holy text of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib.

With celebrations marked around the world, US president Joe Biden extended his warm wishes to Sikh

community anniversary saying: "By core values

on the 552nd birth of Guru Nanak Dev, living these and other of their faith, Sikhs

Jewish Students Calling For Explanation Of Oxford’s Mosley Donation THE UNIVERSITY of Oxford has been asked to speak to its Jewish students after it accepted a donation from the family of Oswald Mosley, who led the British Union of Fascists in the 1930s.

The Union of Jewish Students (UJS) said the Oxford Jewish Society had heard nothing, and added that the news had been distressing for students.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said students were owed an explanation.

The university was given £6m by the Alexander Mosley Charitable Trust, which was set up by the late former motorsport boss Max Mosley and named after his late son Alexander, who was a St Peter's College graduate.

St Peter's and Lady Margaret Hall accepted cash from the Mosley family trust totalling more than £6.3m, the report added.

Mr Mosley was said to have created the trust to house the fortune he inherited from his father, Oswald.

"A good first step would be for the university to reach out to the Jewish Society to start a

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continue to strengthen communities throughout the United States and the world."

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conversation,” said UJS head of campaigns, Amanda Sefton.

"The news has been distressing for Jewish students, and the absence of any communication and consultation is inconsiderate and inappropriate.

"Initial steps must be taken to build the relationship between the Oxford Jewish students and the university." She said that the university and relevant colleges should reflect on "the impact these donations will have on its Jewish students and the wider student body".

While on a visit to the Auschwitz death camp – ahead of the 83rd anniversary of Kristallnacht – the Education Secretary said: “The university must consult and explain the decision-making process that took place for them to have landed on this donation.

“Universities should consider the ethical implications of donations, and the views of students and the wider community”. He said that he expected them to be quite capable of dealing with these issues in an appropriate and sensitive way.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 37

OVERSEAS NEWS

Prime Minister Warns Of ‘Death Sentence' For Island Nations

STEP CLOSER FOR COP15 INSPIRED EARTH PYRAMID

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n ambitious project to construct a giant pyramid and time capsule, inspired by the COP15 climate summit in 2009, has moved a step closer with significant interest being shown by West African nation Senegal.

The Earth Pyramid project, aimed at promoting peace and sustainability through the creation of an iconic structure that reflects the lives of the entire human population, could generate up to $14 billion for social and environmental charities.

It would become the largest time capsule in the world encased within the largest pyramid built since the time of the Pharoahs.

Thousands of time capsules would be incorporated within the pyramid which would be constructed from various rock

types from across the globe.

Twelve years in the planning, Earth Pyramid is the brainchild of Yorkshire-based New Zealand expat Steve Ward who has already garnered the support of a number of notable figures such as Nobel Peace Laureates Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Jose Ramos Horta.

Archbishop Tutu said: “Any project that aims to get the people of the world working together in a positive way is worth supporting and the Earth Pyramid is such a project.”

Steve commented: “As global leaders and climate experts gather for the COP26 summit in Glasgow, the earth pyramid project is a perfect embodiment of their aims to create a more sustainable and hopeful future for all of mankind.”

“In recent years we have had

The WEB Du Bois Back Story Marking A Centenary Since 1921 Pan-African Congress In London

WHILST MOST historians and pan-Africanists may know about the 1945 Pan-African

Congress (PAC), which took place in Manchester, however, less is known about the 1921

BARBADOS Prime Minister Mia Mottley sent out a stark warning on the effects of a rise in global temperature on countries like hers.

At the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, PM Mottley encouraged other countries to commit to fighting climate change, as she said: “A two degree rise in temperature would be a death sentence for island nations, due to rising sea levels and more extreme weather.

As she asked for urgent action, she stressed: "We can work with whoever is ready to go, because the train is ready to leave." Almost 200 countries are being asked for their plans to cut emissions, and it could lead to major changes to people’s everyday lives.

The COP26 global climate summit in Glasgow is seen as crucial if climate change is to be brought under control.

interest shown by governments around the world but Senegal is the first nation to actively embrace the proposals. It’s a positive legacy we can leave for the generations to come and I’m delighted that Senegal is showing an interest.”

Senegalese Senator Amadou Thiam, MD of the Senegal Tourist Board, added: “The Earth Pyramid will be the world's largest time capsule, capturing the hopes and dreams of our planet's diverse cultures and potentially generating a $14 billion fund for environmental and peace projects worldwide. I am diligently working to make Senegal its home."

Steve was motivated to start the project following a discussion with his young daughter during the COP15 summit in Copenhagen.

PAC, which took place in London.

Whilst most historians and pan-Africanists may know about the 1945 Pan-African Congress (PAC), which took place in Manchester.

However, we know less about the 1921 PAC, which took place in London.

To mark the centenary, with the support of the WEB Du Bois Center at Umass Amherst, the Marking The Centenary Of 1921 Pan-African Congress In London Xtra History Sessions Zoom event last month kickedoff with a mash up video based on information from poring through hundreds of WEB Du Bois resources, and there was also ample time to discuss and interrogate the backstory to the 1921 PAC. This was a forum for academic and community history practitioners.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

Holiday and

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

The New Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island

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Ras Al K Introducing

Travel

ocated on a 750-metre beach in Marjan Island, the new Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island opened in July 2021 and features incredible sea and island views - and throughout their stay, travellers can look forward to experiencing the brand’s awardwinning friendly, thoughtful service and inclusive hot breakfast.

As the largest Hampton by Hilton in the world, featuring 515 guest rooms –half of which are interconnected - the hotel is ideal for groups of friends or families. Confirmed Connecting Rooms

by Hilton, an innovative booking technology, will allow guests to easily book and instantly confirm at least two connecting rooms.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

The hotel’s interiors are inspired by a “day at the beach” – encouraging good vibes with colourful boat paddles hung in guest rooms and surf boards adorning the restaurants and public areas.

For those looking to keep fit, the hotel has a variety of great leisure facilities including an infinity pool and a state-ofthe-art fitness centre. The hotel invites families to enjoy a getaway in Ras Al Khaimah - catering to kids of all ages, it has a fun club for children with a dedicated area for teens to hang out.

Every Hampton by Hilton guest can start the day with the brand’s signature complimentary breakfast at Flavors, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. Other dining options include the Surfs Up beach food truck, the H2O pool bar, and

The View lobby café.

In addition, the hotel is connected to two popular concept restaurants – CLAW BBQ and Karma Kafe. A wellness centre opening soon will feature seven treatment rooms, available to those who want to relax and re-energise.

For more information visit www.bit.ly/3nTkYTk

Banan Beach Glamping Resort

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ocated on Al Marjan Island, renowned for its beautiful shoreline and relaxed atmosphere, the chilled beach getaway features numerous facilities including vibrantly coloured tepee designed tents located around a central firepit, private chalets, family-friendly attractions, barbeque areas, designated spots to practice mindfulness, as well as an outdoor cinema screening a mix of blockbusters and family-favourites for all to enjoy.

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pened in 2020, 1484 by Puro is the highest restaurant in the UAE bringing you the perfect combination of stunning location, sleek design and surprising food mixtures.

1484 by Puro is named according to its height above sea level – 1,484 meters. Overlooking the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates, the unique restaurant provides guests with a magnificent panorama of Jebel Jais and its otherworldly landscape.

The sumptuous menu comprises both healthy and hearty options, catering for all tastes. Fresh local ingredients are to the fore, with a nod to the delights of the Arabian Gulf only meters away. New for this season is the rooftop lounge, The View by 1484, offering quick bites and drinks with breath-taking views. The lounge can also be exclusively booked for private events and gatherings.

1484 By Puro is situated at the Jais Adventure Center at the top of Jebel Jais, featuring a comfortable, modern interior and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Hajar mountains.

For more information visit www.puro.ae/1484-by-puro/

All furniture, fixtures, doors, windows and decorations for the chalets and tents, are handmade by the Banan Beach team using recycled, locally sourced and biodegradable materials.

The resort’s sustainability theme also extends to its dining concepts, with natural and sustainable methods such as wood and charcoal for cookery used in its kitchens, instead of the conventional electricity and gas.

For more information please visit www.bananbeach.com.

1484 by Puro

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A Nature Driven Destinat Beaches And Stunning

as Al Khaimah, the Northernmost Emirate in the UAE, offers an experience of a lifetime where travellers can feel its beating heart across a range of landscapes from the sea and beach, desert and mountain range.

With over 7,000 years of fascinating history, traditions and culture, Ras Al Khaimah promises an authentic and

easily accessible Arabian experience.

A haven of year-round sunshine, the Emirate features 64km of pristine beachline, lush mangrove trees and terracotta dunes, as well as fertile, green oases and the dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Hajjar mountains, including the UAE’s highest mountain peak – Jebel Jais – where temperatures are around 10 degrees lower than sea

Historical Sites T

he Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah boasts an impressive heritage and rich cultural history. It’s enticing combination of scenic mountains, pristine beaches, mangroves and desert landscapes have lured settlers for several centuries, making the Emirate one of the oldest continuously habited regions in the world.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah boasts a vast array of historical sites including ruins and forts. It is also the only Emirate in the UAE to have four historical locations namely – Julfar, Shimal, Jazirah Al Hamra and Dhaya – on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) tentative list.

History aficionados should also visit the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, a local treasure that includes artifacts going back to the 14th century, as well as items ranging from old tribal artifacts to modern tribal artefacts, there’s something for everyone.

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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Khaimah

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 39

Bear Grylls Explorer Camp T

he Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is the first of its kind, bringing a variety of courses developed by Bear Grylls himself which offer insight into his dynamic and hands on techniques.

The camp combines the adventurer’s famed survival courses with the world’s first Bear Grylls branded camp accommodation.

The recycled 16 lodges were redesigned to host up to three adults, or two adults and one child, with basic self-catering facilities, including a private BBQ on a private outdoor terrace to prepare meals.

Newly relaunched additions

to the campsite were designed to offer adults, families, and corporate companies mountain biking, climbing, self-guided tours and hikes.

There is also the Survival Academy each day that teach travellers practical and extreme survival techniques.

Visitors can also enjoy walks, hiking, biking, and abseiling on the mountain, as well as the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata, offering three levels of experiences for adventurers or the Ropes Course, a self-guided rope course situated 10 meters above ground with two levels of endless fun.

For more information visit www.beargryllscamp.ae.

Jebel Jais Flight and Sky Tour B

tion Of Sprawling Deserts, Mountain Landscapes level.

What’s more, the Emirate recently announced its Sustainable Tourism Destination Strategy that will see the nature-based Emirate become the regional leader in environmentally conscious tourism by 2025. This follows the announcement earlier this year that the destination is investing over £96 million in more than 20 exciting

illed as the region’s adventure capital, Jebel Jais, situated in the majestic Hajar mountain range, is the UAE’s highest peak, towering over Ras Al Khaimah at a height of 1,934 metres.

Here, above the peaks and craigs of the surrounding mountains, temperatures are around 10 degrees lower than sea level, making it ideal for a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Jebel Jais offers an adrenalinefuelled getaway for those seeking new adventures, wanting to try their hand at outdoor and survival experiences or simply looking to escape city life.

Heading the charge of adventures on offer is the Jebel Jais Flight: The World’s Longest Zipline.

Introduced in 2018, it is one of the destination’s highest profile attractions, loved by adrenaline junkies from around

sustainable tourism development initiatives, ranging from luxury glamping to eco-friendly hotels in the wild and more activities for all adventure-seekers developed on Jebel Jais.

With a diverse tourism offer, here are some of the top things you can do in Ras Al Khaimah when planning your next holiday.

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the world.

The length of the zipline spans an incredible 2.83km, equivalent to over 28 soccer fields.

The zipliners soar through the skies at a height of 1,680 metres above sea level, reaching speeds of 120kph to 150kph – an adventure of a lifetime.

Another must-see attraction is the Jais Sky Tour, which comprises seven ziplines high above the grand cliffs and canyons of Jebel Jais, connected by nine platforms and a 15m-long sky bridge – the highest of its kind in the UAE. The tour gives visitors an unprecedented bird’s eye view of the incredible location, while reaching speeds of around 60kph.

In total, the ziplines cover 5km and range from 337m high to just over 1km.

For more information visit www.bit.ly/3xqSF1O

The Suwaidi Pearl Farm T

he Suwaidi Pearl Farm is the region’s first cultured pearl farm bringing guests closer to the nation’s heritage, through mangrove tours, pearl diving demonstrations and a tour of the facilities, promoting an understanding of the history of pearl farming in the Arabian Gulf, an insight into the various types of pearls found in Ras Al Khaimah and the process of pearl farming.

For more information visit www.suwaidipearls.ae/

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

NEW URBAN VILLAGE MASTERPLAN UNVEILED FOR 5,000 NEW HOMES

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new urban village comprising thousands of homes and commercial space with the potential to create

3,500 jobs is set to be created at the NEC Campus in Solihull.

A masterplan for 67 acres of land next to the M42 has been unveiled by the NEC Group

which it said could one day be home to 11,000 people. It comes just weeks after the live events company announced the full financial impact of the

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coronavirus pandemic in its 2020/21 financial report, with shareholders having to inject £50 million to steady the ship as it plunged to a pre-tax loss of £50.4 million.

Residents and businesses are now being invited to have their say on these new proposals which would transform huge swathes of surplus land and surfacelevel car parks at the campus. The proposals are for 5,000 houses, 376,700

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sq ft of commercial space and a further 150,700 sq ft of outdoor event space, a hotel, restaurants and cafés and a new primary school alongside green space and connections to the new HS2 station nearby.

Redevelopment plans for the car parks were mooted in 2018 when the NEC Group published a concept known as 'NEC City' and in April this year we reported that business leaders and local councils were re-examining the potential for a huge regeneration there.

Chief executive Paul Thandi said: "The NEC Campus is home to one of the top exhibition venues and arenas in Europe and, together with existing partners, we have long held ambitions to create a competitive destination to work, rest, live and play."

Councillor Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council which owns the land the NEC Campus sits on, added: "This is an exciting moment for Birmingham and the wider West Midlands as this transformational masterplan is published.”

NEC Group owns and manages venues such as the National Exhibition Centre and Resorts World Arena in Solihull and the International Convention Centre and Utilita Arena in Birmingham.

It was sold to US private equity group Blackstone in 2018 for a rumoured £800 million.

The public consultation - now open - runs until December 24.

Clarke Willmott Announces Results Of Later Living Survey AN EXPERT TEAM of lawyers who specialise in supporting clients in the Later Living sector have announced the results of a survey looking at the perceptions and attitudes of consumers to retirement living.

The team from national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, carried out the inaugural ‘Retirement Living – consumer attitudes survey 2021’ after seeing an uptick in demand for residential developments designed for retirees and older clientele.

The survey was completed by over 300 private individuals from across the UK and threw up some interesting results on demographics, perceptions in the wake of the pandemic and the most important factors people consider when thinking about retirement living.

Paul Hinett, a partner in Clarke Willmott’s commercial property team, specialising in development, said: “In recent years we have seen an increased diversity of property solutions in the retirement market and we were keen to broaden our insight in relation to this market and to share this with our clients."

Winners Revealed At Haringey Design Awards 2021

FROM A RESTORED Muswell Hill house, in London, to an outstanding sustainable build in Tottenham, the winners of the Haringey Design Awards 2021 were announced at the Alexandra Palace Theatre.

The Green House was the big winner on the night, scooping the ‘Best House’ and ‘Sustainable Building’ awards, as well as the ‘Overall Winner’ prize.

The Green House is a new build in the Clyde Circus Conservation Area of Tottenham. It has been constructed on land once used for market garden greenhouses

and is a contemporary reinterpretation.

The house has impressive sustainability credentials and is low-carbon, both in construction and use. Winners in all the categories were: • Sustainable Building – Green House, Hayhurst & Co • Heritage – Muswell Hill Edwardian House, Giles Reid Architects • Inclusive Design – The Archives, ROAR Architects • Placemaking – Chesnut Road Linear Park, Adams & Sutherland

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• Excellent Homes (Small Scale) – Archway Road, pH+ Architects • Excellent Homes (Large Scale) – The Gessner, Berol Yard, 3DReid Architecture & Design/John McAslan + Partners/Delta Architects • Best House – Green House, Hayhurst & Co • Better Building Standards – Hornsey Library, Curl la Tourelle Head Architecture The shortlist contained 31 of the borough’s best buildings from the last two years. Categories were judged by an independent panel.

Councillor John Bevan, Cabinet member for Planning, Licensing and Housing Services said: “We’ve spent more time in our homes and local areas than ever before and need good quality design more than ever.

“There are many things we’d like to see progressed in future developments; zero carbon developments, design codes, lifecycle costings and the refurbishment and reuse of existing buildings where possible. From the talent shown at the awards I am convinced that we will be able to make good progress on all these matters.”

CEO of VU.CITY and sponsors of the awards, Jamie Holmes, said: “These awards demonstrate how the right tools can make better, and faster design decisions to inform our future world. It’s so important that we continue to recognise great placemaking and its role in building truly inclusive communities that work for everyone.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 41

Patron To

The Phoenix Newspaper Countdown To The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Celebrating All Things Commonwealth

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Ghanaian Star Okyeame Kwame Champions COP26 Campaign

IRDA signs MoU with WMCA THE WEST MIDLANDS Combined Authority (WMCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Malaysian government body to co-operate in the area of transport innovation and smart cities development for the next three years.

The MoU with Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) will be an opportunity for the West Midlands to share knowledge, ideas, and lessons learned from within the urban and transport planning realms, as well as promote mutual recognition of international design standards for inclusive transport. The ‘virtual signing of the MoU took place at the Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) Regional Transport Coordination Centre (RTCC).

The signing saw TfWM interim managing director Anne Shaw putting pen to paper for the WMCA and representatives from IRDA and H.E. Charles Hay, British High Commissioner to Malaysia joining either in person or virtually.

TfWM, which is part of the WMCA, launched the RTCC in January 2020 to bring together real-time information across all modes of transport in one place working with existing control centres around the West Midlands to provide up-to-the-minute journey information for residents, businesses and visitors.

THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN 21ST CENTURY SOCIETY BOOK LAUNCHED IN BIRMINGHAM

M

y City, My Home a brand-new book featuring a collection of writings by women and girls in Birmingham (UK), Bangladesh and Pakistan, was launched at a special event at Midlands Arts Centre hosted by writer and author Kavita Bhanot.

Published in English, Urdu and Bangla, My City, My Home is a ground-breaking publication featuring 184 poems, shortstories and other prose from writers, and those new to writing, reflecting on the identity and the role of women in 21st century society.

The book was made possible through a specially commissioned, international writing competition launched

by Sampad South Asian Arts & Heritage in September

2020, a year which marked the company’s 30th anniversary.

Birmingham-based arts development agency Sampad, worked alongside Project Associates in Pakistan and Bangladesh connecting online with diverse groups of women and girls in their countries and supporting them through workshops to participate.

Piali Ray OBE, Artistic Director at Sampad, said: “The theme My City, My Home’ has strong personal resonance with me in the same way that it connected with many women who responded to our call for this writing competition.

“It was rewarding to receive 280 entries from the many unheard voices of women who shared their emotions, ambitions, joys, dreams, disappointments, resentment and pain. Their words

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resonate with each other towards a place of strength, identity and belonging.”

Out of the 184 entries selected by judges, three overall winners were chosen for their particular writing skills and themes and are featured in the book each representing their own location: • English language: Ilika Chakravarty Mandal, Birmingham, UK ‘Yellow Sweater’ • Bangla language: Shahana Yasmin, Dhaka, Bangladesh ‘Ek kichhui korena meyer golpo’ • Urdu language: Nadia Umer, Lahore, Pakistan. ‘Shehar Kay Dil’ Commenting on her work Bangladesh overall winner Shahana Yasmin said: “In Dhaka, the city I live in, you can see mothers of school children

waiting outside the school for 5 to 6 hours every day.

“This city does not have any public toilets for women. These mothers cannot go to the toilet for a long time and develop urinary diseases. Their husbands don’t find them attractive so they have relationships with other women.

“I wanted to write about the plight of these mothers. ‘My City, My Home’ inspired me to write this.”

Amongst those attending the launch were: Piali Ray OBE (Artistic Director, Sampad), Nushin Hussain (Project Coordinator, Transforming Narratives), Dawn Carr (Health and Well-Being Officer & SIMRA at Legacy West Midlands), Sarah Kennedy (Senior Relationship Manager, Arts Council England), Deborah Kermode (CEO/Artistic Director, Midlands Arts Centre).

0121 339 5885

OKYEAME KWAME led a 100,000 climate activists march in Glasgow for Climate Justice at #COP26.

This year’s COP26 was a little more than business as usual.

After the geo-political power play of G20 verses developing nations who emit the least of carbon emissions but suffer the most negative impact of climate change, the negotiations between the parties were a little more ambitious than finger pointing.

The advocates called these meetings ‘blah blah blah’ and took to the streets to express the few sentiments of everyday people.

Ghanaian versatile musician and Climate Activist Okyeame, who was named Climate Clock Ambassador for Africa/Ghana, has joined hands with about 100,000 people around the world, to march in Glasgow to demand more action on the climate crisis, organisers have said.

The protest was the biggest so far during the COP26 summit and took place alongside hundreds of similar events around the world.

He who joined the march had a number of interviews with other international media hubs.

The legendary musician from Ghana was emphatic that, there must be a rapid transition to a safe climate future in the world. He said: "The children are innocent, we must not destroy their future with our irresponsible behaviour.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 43

ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT

Indian Government Set To Ban Cryptocurrencies INDIA IS BANNING most cryptocurrencies in the country under a long-awaited bill. The ban relates to all private cryptocurrencies with certain exceptions to allow the promotion of the underlying technology and its uses.

Cryptocurrency prices dropped on Indian exchanges after the decision on the bill's future was announced.

According to a government bulletin, the ban is part of the proposed Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill that will be introduced in its winter session.

In recent months it was thought the government may soften its stance on cryptocurrencies, possibly seeking to have them regulated as assets instead of a means of payment with the value of several digital currencies reportedly dropping following the announcement of the bill. Bitcoin fell more than 13% on the Indian exchange site

SCHOLARSHIPS IN TOURISM GRANTED BY CHTAEF AND LES ROCHES Because

T

he recently announced professional development program for Caribbean hospitality professionals, launched by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation (CHTAEF) and Les Roches, the hospitality management institution, has named two dozen Caribbean scholarship recipients.

Designed to accelerate the trajectory of participants’ hospitality careers, the program attracted more than 150 applicants over the summer.

Eleven candidates received a joint scholarship, which covers more than 75 percent of the program cost, and Les Roches offered a 50 percent bursary to an

additional 13 candidates whose qualifications and potential could not be overlooked by the evaluation committee.

Carlos Diez de la Lastra Buigues, Managing Director of Les Roches Marbella, said: “The support of CHTA member hoteliers, who have encouraged their staff to apply to this executive postgraduate online program, demonstrates a strong commitment to quality tourism and excellence in the region,” Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas and St. Lucia’s Ladera Resort and Bay Gardens Resorts will add to the roster of scholars by supporting additional candidates for the program in the future, while Sandals Foundation has committed a US$10,000 donation toward the overall

sustainability of the program, supporting some of the most deserving candidates across the region’s hospitality sector.

Chair of CHTAEF, Karolin Troubetzkoy, said the Foundation was delighted to live up to its mission to improve and elevate the quality of tourism professionals through education and training.

She stated: “We need to make serious investments in the future leaders of our region, while ensuring that the Caribbean is known as a centre of excellence in one of the largest industries in the world. And we are off to a great start with Les Roches and our region’s finest hotels and resorts.”

WazirX, while Shiba Inu and Dogecoin both dropped more than 15%.

According to a video report, cryptocurrency trading was likely to continue under the proposed bill, as long as users buy from exchanges which meet certain requirements. According to the CoinDesk website, the RBI, the country's central bank, is regarded as having conservative views about cryptocurrency.

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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HEALING FROM DOUBLE LOSS COPING WITH THE DEATH OF PARENTS

I

n 2020 my parents Syl and Charles Anderson died.

For most people their death came without fanfare and without any recognition, however for us, their children, their grandchildren and their community, this news came as a complete shock.

We were the Anderson’s of Harborne. However, mum and dad both died peacefully in my sister’s home in Northfield surrounded in part by members of the family.

They had been living in a residential home in Bournville before having to go to hospital.

They were isolated, confused and alone. Our parents needed to see their children, like so many people – the lack of contact impacted everyone. Sadly, our experience of the care was inconsistent with some good care and support followed by devastatingly poor care.

I’m Maureen, one of the younger siblings out of 10, we were all actively involved either in person or over the telephone keeping the family going.

We were there, holding a vigil over our parents - I was there when mum took her last breath whilst siblings were in other rooms – but this last breath went unnoticed. There was no gasp, no tossing or turning, just quietly slipping away into a deep and lasting sleep. I was not so fortunate to be there when dad took his last breath, I had returned to London for grandparent joy. Dad passed away in July, but I was fortunate to spend Father’s Day with him.

We always spoke very openly about death, often with humour but with his faith in mind. I was able to speak quite candidly to

him about this being our last time to talk – I reminded him that he had been a good father on earth, he was firm with an unfailing love for his family and his faith. My dad told me how much he loved all of us and how he felt fortunate that we have all looked after him. You see, that’s all my dad wanted – he never wanted to go into a residential home and make ‘matchstick houses’. As a family we had to make this decision as we were all still working or had responsibilities for children and grandchildren or jobs abroad – this made it difficult to care for them.

My dad was very pleased when he was discharged to our care and was nursed at home, he was glad to be able to have a wash, to shave, to be spoken to.

Sadly, my mother was unable to verbally engage with us when she was discharged, she had stopped talking for approximately five weeks prior and had also stopped eating. Both of my parents were deemed ‘end of life’ – my mother’s status was written on her discharge papers – no one informed us – so you can imagine our shock, upset and disbelief – we were given

‘days to one week’ of life expectancy. Mum died on day seven.

The Majonzi Fund started by Professor Patrick Vernon OBE launched a fund to be utilised in commemorating the lives lost during the pandemic, we were successful. We will honour our parents by commissioning a plaque and a painting. The plaque will be in recognition of them as founder members of the Assemblies of the First Born church in Lozells. We are also in the planning stages of an event in June 2022 to acknowledge all those lost in Birmingham during the pandemic.

Finally – I co-host The Kitchen Table once a month (with Dr Yansie Rolston and Milicent Perkins), holding a safe space for all to come together to share, listen or celebrate the life of a loved one.

This space has been supported by the Ubele Initiative and run via zoom to ensure that people all around the country/world can access support. Details can be found via my website Maureenanderson.co.uk.

l Maureen Anderson

WHO approve Indian COVID-19 vaccine THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION (WHO) on Wednesday approved an eighth vaccine against COVID-19, which follows a slight uptick in new cases globally.

COVAXIN, made by Indian company Bharat Biotech, has received WHO emergency use listing (EUL), meaning it could soon be available to millions worldwide.

The EUL process assesses the quality, safety and efficacy of vaccines and is a prerequisite for their inclusion in the global solidarity initiative, COVAX. It also allows countries to expedite

their regulatory approval to import and administer doses.

“This emergency use listing expands the availability of vaccines, the most effective medical tools we have to end the pandemic,” said Dr Mariângela Simão, WHO Assistant-Director General for Access to Medicines and Health Products. “But we must keep up the pressure to meet the needs of all populations, giving priority to the at-risk groups who are still waiting for their first dose, before we can start declaring victory.”

A WHO advisory group assessed COVAXIN under

the EUL procedure, based on review of data on quality, safety, efficacy, a risk management plan and programmatic suitability.

The vaccine was determined to meet WHO standards for protection against COVID-19, and green-lit for worldwide distribution.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 45

ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT

FORENSICS EXPERT DEB TAKES OVER AS CHAMBER PRESIDENT

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l Deb Leary OBE

eb Leary OBE D.Univ, FRSA, CCMI has become only the third female president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) in its 208year history and pledged to put the region’s interests “front and centre”.

Her two-year term as successor to Steve Allen was confirmed at the GBCC annual meeting at the Radisson Blu in Birmingham city centre where chief financial officer Helen Bates reported an income for 2020-2021 of £5.5 million, generating a surplus after tax of £80,000.

Deb is chief executive of Forensic Pathways Ltd. an international consultancy and technology design company specialising in the development of innovative technologies and services in the threat intelligence and forensic arena.

In 2020 the Company launched its threat intelligence brand Clarifyi.

com focussed on cyber and reputation management.

She said: “Being Birmingham-born and bred, I am incredibly honoured to have been elected as the new president, even more so as only the third woman in the 208-year history of the Chamber to hold this position.

“I like to extend my personal thanks to Steve who has helped steer the Chamber through challenging times and I am committed to continuing one of his themes, that of innovation.

"As CEO of Forensic Pathways for the past 20 years, I know the importance of continued innovation and its impact on growth. Innovation brings increased opportunities for collaboration and positive social impact regionally, nationally and internationally.

“The pandemic has highlighted the brilliance of collaboration and innovation and the acknowledgement that on many aspects we have to come

together globally in order to address fundamental challenges.

“It is about putting Greater Birmingham front and centre - not only reaching out but also showcasing what the region represents. With the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, the timing is perfect to focus on the best of what Greater Birmingham has to offer.

“The role as president brings with it the ability to nominate a charity for the duration of the presidency. As well as continuing to support charities such as Midland Met Hospital and Air Ambulance, my personal nominated charity for the duration of my presidency will be Pans Pandas UK. “Pans and Pandas are medical conditions which present primarily with symptoms such as OCD, eating restrictions, anxiety and behavioural regression. These conditions are caused by a misdirected immune response to a common infection such

as strep throat or chickenpox.

“PANS PANDAS UK are a charity established in 2018 to support families affected by these life changing conditions and offer education to medical professionals and schools.

The charity currently supports 4,500 families. My family is one of them.

“I am incredibly proud of the Chamber and of this region and that I very much look forward to working to support you all over the next two years. My Presidency will be about continuing to shine a light on its members and the Greater Birmingham brand as a whole, to challenge, when challenge is needed and to celebrate loudly on our successes.”

Previous female presidents of the GBCC were Bridget Blow (2008) and Christine Braddock (2010).

Deb was awarded the OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2008 in recognition of her commitment to entrepreneurship.

WITH DELEGATES IN ATTENDANCE INCLUDING

l Mubarakka Lokhandwala Ghadiyali

l H.E. Mrs Olayinka Fayomi, MBA, FCIE

l Nana Kwame Bediako

l Yofi Grant

l Mwamba Solomon Wa Ngoy

l Vikas Bhargava

THE FIN AFRICA-UAE TRADE AND INVESTMENT FORUM

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by Delroy Constantine-Simms support of the Dubai government,

he FIN Africa-UAE Trade and Investment Forum, held at the prestigious 7-star Burj AL Arab, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (November 21-23rd 2021), with the theme; “The road to a prosperous Africa” brought together great minds and organizations committed to the development of the African continent, through Foreign Direct Investment in key sectors such as oil & gas, power, construction, finance and technology.

The Foreign Investment Network, FIN, a global consulting and publishing firm, under the patronage of Sheikh Tahnoon Al Nahyan with the

held an Africa-UAE Trade and Investment Forum.

This move is in continuation of its bid to promote emerging economies in Africa and serve as a platform for Africa’s linkage to the world.

The FIN Trade and Investment Forum is aimed at stimulating of wider inclusiveness between countries to speed up actualization of prosperous Africa; act as an advocacy machinery for the development of job creation incubation system for African youths at the grassroots and impact on the participants improved know-how on available opportunities for trade, investment and tourism.

According to the Chief

Executive, Foreign Investment Network, FIN, Olayinka Fayomi, “it is estimated that the impact of COVID-19 would drag African economies into a fall of about 1.4% in GDP, with smaller economies facing contraction of up to 7.8%.

So, it is time to turn to trade and investments to help build better bilateral trade and investment platforms and boost the economy as well as increase productivity and export capacity.”

“This event is about highlevel networking, especially the one-to-one business meetings between decision makers and top executives and entrepreneurs from all parts of the world”,.

“Despite the global economic contraption as a result of

shocks from the COVID-19 pandemic, the African continent is set for a huge economic transformation in the energy sector”, says Fayomi, adding that the international energy forum will expose latest inventions in the oil and gas technology and provide an opportunity for greater investment in oil and gas exploration amidst the challenges of global warming.

There was an energy roundtable, Forbes Best of Africa Energy Award and exhibition area where oil and gas technology, inventions, software developers, gas exploration equipment manufacturers and multinational companies demonstrate their innovations.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com To advertise 0208-865-1922

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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Ambassadorial Appoinment To Lead Swa Drive A FORMER British ambassador to Argentina has been appointed to lead the SWA (Scotch Whisky Association). Mark Kent will succeed Karen Betts as chief executive of the industry lobby group in January.

Ms Betts, who is taking on a new role as head of the Food and Drink Federation, was the first woman to lead the SWA. Mr Kent will join the body after more than three decades with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Before serving as ambassador to Argentina for five years until June, he served as ambassador to Thailand and Vietnam. He also had roles at British embassies in Mexico City, Brasilia and the UK's representation to the European Union.

Mr Kent said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association. After a challenging period, I'm looking forward to helping the industry to unleash its full potential and enable people across the globe to discover and enjoy our premium and iconic product."

SWA Council chairman Scott McCroskie said: "We look forward to working with Mark as the industry looks to make new ground in key growth markets and build a sustainable future for the industry by continuing our push towards net-zero."

South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia to co-host 2027 World Cup

l Anne Shaw, Interim Managing Director Transport for West Midlands at TfWM meets with the Malaysian Delegation

IRDA SIGNS MOU WITH WMCA TO PROMOTE MUTUAL CO-OPERATION IN TRANSPORT AND URBAN INNOVATION

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he West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Malaysian government body to co-operate in the area of transport innovation and smart cities development for the next three years.

The MoU with Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) will be an opportunity for the West Midlands to share knowledge, ideas, and lessons learned from within the urban and transport planning realms, as well as promote mutual recognition of international design standards for inclusive transport.

The ‘virtual signing of the MoU took place at the Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) Regional Transport Coordination Centre (RTCC).

The signing saw TfWM interim managing director Anne Shaw putting pen to paper for the WMCA and representatives from IRDA and H.E. Charles Hay, British High Commissioner to Malaysia joining either in person or virtually.

TfWM, which is part of the WMCA, launched the RTCC in January 2020 to bring together real-time information across all modes of transport in one place working with existing control centres around the West Midlands to provide up-to-theminute journey information for residents, businesses and visitors.

Over time the initiative, which was facilitated by the Global Future Cities Programme in

Malaysia, will look to assist the RTCC in improving its coordination across public transport and road networks, as well as manage real-time congestion for the region’s residents, businesses, and visitors.

Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, said: I look forward to seeing how the partnership with the Iskandar Regional Development Authority will further build on our efforts to manage and improve our green transport network throughout the West Midlands.

The RTCC provides us with the unique ability to give accurate travel information to our residents making it a wonderful facility to showcase to our visitors from Malaysia as we look to work together to further innovate transport in our regions.”

Anne Shaw said: “We have a track record of delivering innovative data and technical solutions, so combining their experience with the learning that IRDA are gaining from their transport innovation developments will be beneficial for both organisations.”

His Excellency Charles Hay, British High Commissioner to Malaysia, added: ““Sustainable transport is an essential part of reaching net zero targets, and local authorities play a key role in the transition. These were among the main themes of the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP26.

Partnerships like this will help drive climate action forward”.

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THE INTERNATIONAL Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that the 2027 men's Cricket World Cup will be hosted in Africa.

South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host the 50-over tournament, which is held every four years. It will be the first time since 2003 that the event will be held on the continent, after venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya were used 18 years ago.

Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said: "This is fantastic news, coming after we worked hard and with determination as a group to get the World Cup back on our soil."

"And this is clearly a vote of confidence in what we as Zimbabwe Cricket are doing and in what we as Africa can do.

We are humbled by the trust the ICC has placed in our bid and thrilled by the opportunity we have been given to put cricket on a new and sustainable path for generations to come.

"On our part, we are ready to ensure the ICC men's Cricket World Cup 2027 stands out as a unique event that celebrates Africa in all its magnificent splendour, richness, vibrancy, diversity and glory." The 2003 tournament was slightly overshadowed by England and New Zealand refusing to travel to play in Zimbabwe and Kenya respectively because of security concerns.

Despite those refusals Pakistan, Netherlands, Australia, India and Namibia all played in Zimbabwe while Sri Lanka travelled to face Kenya in Nairobi. The chairperson of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board, Lawson Naidoo, was also delighted with the ICC announcement.

"This is great news for cricket in South Africa and indeed the entire African continent," he said. "CSA had submitted a compelling bid for the men's World Cup to return to our shores and for Africa to again enjoy the sporting, social and economic benefits of hosting this prestigious world cricket event.

"We are delighted that through this tournament the world will get a view of the abundance of talent that abounds in this beautiful part of the world."

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4 High Jumper Grabarz Earns Olympic High Jump Silver BRITAIN'S ROBBIE Grabarz has been awarded an Olympic high jumping silver medal after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) reallocated results because of doping cases.

Grabarz, who retired in 2018, won bronze behind Russia's gold medallist Ivan Ukhov at the 2012 Games in London. However, Ukhov has been stripped of his gold after participating in Russia's statesponsored doping programme.

American Erik Kynard has been awarded the gold medal.

Grabarz, 34, is upgraded to silver along with Canada's Derek Drouin and Qatar's Mutaz Essa Barshim, who tied for gold with Italy's Gianmarco Tamberi at the Tokyo Games in August.

0 students from schools around Coventry participated in a Project Rugby X7s festival, hosted by Pinley RFC to mark the end of the first half term.

The festival aimed to celebrate the hard work and effort of the students who have been participating at in-school Project Rugby sessions provided by Wasps coaches.

Project Rugby is a programme supported nationally by Gallagher and the RFU and aims to encourage participation of students aged 14+ who come from typically under-represented groups in the sport (Diverse Ethnic Communities and Low Socio-Economic Groups), and Disability Groups.

Julius Hunt, Wasps Community Coach said: “Providing the opportunity for under-represented groups to get involved in rugby is hugely important to us.

“The half-term allowed us to support and develop young players through engaging them in rugby, something that is totally new to them. To encourage the transition of the participants into rugby clubs not only supports the aim of Project Rugby, but also broadens the future opportunities for them as individuals.

“This event provided a chance for the students to get out to a local grassroots club, where a number of them have now joined and will continue on their rugby journey away from school and the Project Rugby sessions.”

The festival welcomed schools from Coventry, providing a

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2021 - Page 47

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

PROJECT RUGBY FESTIVAL A HIT FOR SCHOOLS

competitive opportunity in which the players could express themselves on the field, all under the watchful eye of a couple of Wasps stars. The teams were joined by Wasps’ Nizaam Carr and Paolo Odogwu, who offered coaching to the teams, answered

lots of great questions and gave plenty of advice throughout the event.

Impressed with the rugby on show, Nizaam said: “There were some really talented players taking part and it was great to see them get a run out and

enjoy themselves. Days like this are invaluable and are a great opportunity to get more players from a range of backgrounds involved in the sport!”

Williams Sisters Say Mantle Must Be Taken Up

TENNIS LEGENDS Serena and Venus Williams have said that their mantle must be taken up moving forward.

The sporting sisters were asked whether they saw players like Naomi Osaka and Emma Raducanu facing similar barriers to the ones they had to overcome.

“I don’t know that we know their lives,” Venus said.

“So, it’s hard for us to speak to that. But obviously they’re achieving great things. We’re excited for them, and they’re great for tennis.

“It’s important for people to continue to break barriers. And the best part is if you’re good enough and great enough you open the way for other people.

“I think generations coming after us are able to just play tennis and hopefully don’t have to focus so much on the colour of their skin.”

Serena has 23 Slam titles, while Venus has seven of her own, plus an Olympic singles gold medal each and three as a doubles team.

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Williams Sisters Say Mantle Must Be Taken Up - Page 47

High Jumper Grabarz Earns Olympic High Jump Silver - Page 43

Olympic Silver Medallist To Race At Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM 2022 ANNOUNCES WORLD-CLASS TRAINING VENUES FOR ELEVEN DIFFERENT SPORTS

T

he official training venues for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games have been announced and the list unveiled by the organisers of the major multi-sport event includes Wyndley Leisure Centre in Sutton Coldfield, Moseley Cricket Club in Solihull and Broadstreet Rugby Football Club in Coventry.

Wyndley Leisure Centre, located in the north of Birmingham, has been announced as the training venue for triathlon, Para triathlon and hockey, with the existing hockey pitch being upgraded to a Federation International Hockey (FIH) standard pitch, to replicate the playing surface at the University of Birmingham, the hockey competition venue. Improvements are also being made to the fencing and floodlights on the site.

Hockey’s triple Olympic and triple Commonwealth Games medallist, Laura Unsworth, explains: “Those last few days before a major tournament begins are vital to a team’s preparations, so it is fantastic news that for Birmingham 2022 the hockey teams will have access to a brandnew pitch for training."

As well as ensuring that the teams invited to compete at the Commonwealth Games have excellent training facilities, the improvements being made at Wyndley Leisure Centre will have a long-lasting benefit for local community groups, schools and local hockey players too, such as those from Sutton Coldfield Hockey Club, who a r e based at the site.

C l u b members Jane Sixsmith, who won a silver medal as part of the Team England hockey team at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, said: “It’s very exciting news that Wyndley Leisure Centre has been selected as an official training venue for the hockey teams competing at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Moseley Cricket Ground is another local facility that has been selected, and this will be the official training venue for the eight women’s Cricket T20 teams participating at the Games.

This venue is also being upgraded ahead of the Games, thanks to support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (the ECB).

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This investment is to ensure that the playing surface at Moseley Cricket Club perfectly replicates the environment the athletes will be competing on at Edgbaston Stadium, the official competition venue for Birmingham 2022.

Broadstreet Rugby Football Club in Coventry was chosen as the Rugby Sevens training venue due to the fantastic facilities they have available for athletes at Birmingham 2022

Commonwealth Games.

Birmingham 2022 has also decided to make the most of the fantastic facilities at the three Commonwealth Games campus villages that were announced last year, at the University of Birmingham, the University at Warwick and the NEC. All three will now add training venues to the list of facilities they are providing for the Games.

The swimming pool and athletics track at the University of Birmingham will now be used by the competing nations and territories and a state-of-the-art boxing and netball training venue will also be created within a hall at the NEC, providing athletes with elite boxing rings, training equipment and recovery areas. Netball players will also have access to two world standard netball courts, with the University of Warwick also providing elite training facilities for Rugby Sevens, judo and wrestling.

The final training venue is King Edward’s School in Birmingham, which will welcome Birmingham 2022’s rhythmic gymnasts, as well as some of the Athletics and Para Athletics competitors.

0208-865-1922

Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson will take on the world at the Müller Indoor Grand Prix Birmingham on Saturday 19 February 2022.

The British 800m record holder is the first leading athlete to announce their intention to compete at the event, which returns to the Utilita Arena Birmingham in the new year.

Star-studded fields are set to align for the World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold event, one of seven marquee indoor events across the globe, with Hodgkinson to the fore.

With tickets now on general sale, you can secure your seat to watch Hodgkinson in the second city.

“I’m so excited to be running at the Müller Indoor Grand Prix Birmingham,” she said.

“It’s going to be one of my big races of the season and I can’t wait to be back in front of a home crowd.

“I had a great indoor season in 2021 and that set me up perfectly for the outdoors and the Olympic Games.

Competing at home with a big crowd in Birmingham, will hopefully set me up for the same in 2022 with some massive major Championships on the horizon.”

The 19-year-old made her big breakthrough in the 2021 indoor season. She smashed the world under-20 indoor 800m record in Vienna last January with a clocking of 1:59.03 seconds.

The Leigh Harrier’s feats in the 2021 outdoor season need no introduction as she claimed a landmark second national title at the Müller British Athletics Championships, and then took Tokyo by storm, smashing Dame Kelly Holmes’s national record with 1:55.88 to win Olympic silver on her Games debut.