The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION ACROSS ALL COMMUNITIES

MARCH 2022

Positive • Informative • Objective News

CELEBRATING FANTASTIC WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE IN THE NAME OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

Feature From Pages 7-13

For All Your Ents News SEE PAGE 17

LOOK WHO I BUMPED INTO!

At William Brown's 70th birthday party in Wolverhampton, Dr Marcia caught up with Jay Blades MBE from the hit restoration show The Repair Shop! (Photo: Scorpian)

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Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

NEWS

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COULD BRITAIN REALLY BE ON THE BRINK OF WORLD WAR 3?

By Dr Tony Talburt

J

ust over a hundred years ago, parts of Africa and Asia, as well as the USA, became engulfed in a war that started in Europe, as a result of conflict and an incident in Eastern Europe.

About 17 million people died and around one hundred countries from Africa, the Americas, Australasia and Europe were involved directly or indirectly in the war.

By the time the first World War ended, almost every African country had committed themselves to one European side or the other.

In 1939, a similar pattern was repeated in which the immediate cause for World War 2 was the invasion of Poland, another Eastern European nation, by Nazi Germany.

Fast forward to 2022, we see a rather uncomfortable reemergence of a familiar theme, where one country could invade another, resulting in military

retaliation and or intervention

by NATO forces in Europe, backed also by the USA. As of the time of writing this article (21 February 2022), Russia, for a variety of reasons, is seeking to invade Ukraine presumably in order to bring that country under its political and economic orbit as it once was after the revolution of 1917.

Just as how political alliances between countries often mean they will join forces with others to thwart common threats, as evidenced in the two previous world wars, will this possible invasion by Russia result in Britain joining its NATO allies in going to War? According to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a live address to the nation of Russia (21 February 2022), he claims that the modern nation of Ukraine was created by Russia.

Furthermore, he argues that Russia recognises Ukraine’s breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

It seems clear that President

Putin is arguing for some degree of liberation for these two states in Ukraine where individual freedoms of the people are being restricted by the regional governments.

According to Putin, Ukraine, through the support of the West, is building nuclear arms, and is a colony of the USA, and is engaged in stealing Russian gas. From this, it follows that, the country needs to be brought back into line.

If Ukraine agrees to become a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), this is, according to Putin, further proof that it is seeking to undermine and threaten the very existence of Russia.

Are we, therefore, moving from a new Cold War to outright hostilities?

Although Francis Fukuyama’s classic text ‘the end of history’ assumed the triumph of the West and liberalism over the authoritarian state-led regimes, it seems President Putin is determined to regain political prestige and ambition, as well

as territory lost as a result of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the disintegration of the Soviet Union after 1989.

These statements by the Russian President are reminiscent of Adolf Hitler’s statements and subsequent actions in the late 1930s, where he felt aggrieved partly over the loss of German territory and international political prestige.

If Russia follows through on its threats to invade Ukraine, and NATO forces impose sanctions on Russia, it is possible this could lead to war.

Should that happen, it might have dire consequences probably more devastating than the Covid-19 pandemic.

This could seriously affect Britain’s economy and result in major social changes to our usual way of life on par with what we saw in the two previous World Wars.

We can only hope that these political posturing and threats do not escalate into full scale war.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 3

NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

VM GROUP – TRANSFORMING THE EVERYDAY OF A GLOBAL MEMBERSHIP S

ome 143 years ago, in the wake of the emancipation of slavery in Jamaica, a bold dream was born.

Faced with the inherent inequities of the post-Emancipation era, a group of clergymen conceptualised the Victoria Mutual Building Society (VMBS) as a way for the average, hardworking Jamaican to save towards an opportunity for financial empowerment through home ownership.

Over the years, VMBS became a household name, accountable for the fulfilment of a universal dream to own a piece of the island nation, Jamaica, – renowned globally for its incomparable sunshine, beaches and a ‘no problem, man’ attitude to life.

Built on Mutuality, the VMBS remained true, in each ensuing decade, to its promise to its Members, to share ownership of not just the institution but each decision to drive its evolution in the modern world.

Responding to the changing needs of its Members, VMBS would eventually grow to become a strong,

l Judith Forth-Blake, Group Chief Customer & Brand Officer

integrated group with offerings that go well beyond traditional savings and mortgage loans.

Through the parent entity, subsidiaries, and affiliate companies, VMBS eventually moved to offer a range of financial products and services for individuals and businesses, including wealth creation and management, remittance services, real estate services, pension administration, general insurance, and development financing.

They also expanded their reach to overseas territories, serving Jamaicans in the Diaspora and other clients in the United Kingdom, United States and Canada.

Since 2016, the evolution accelerated with a purposeful move to digital and a more proactive drive to develop and enhance its product and service offerings.

Significant milestones have also been achieved in this period, chief among them, the listing of subsidiary, Victoria Mutual Investments Limited (VMIL) on the Jamaica Stock Exchange, giving ordinary Jamaicans the opportunity to generate wealth for themselves and families.

In November 2021, the Victoria Mutual Group of companies, embarked on a brand transformation campaign, to bring its storied history as a beloved global player in the financial sector, into alignment with its brand image, leveraging the opportunity to re-establish its commitment of care and expertise to its Members and the public.

The organisation rebranded as the ‘The VM Group’ creating a more cohesive and integrated look and feel across its subsidiaries. All subsidiaries of the Group also moved to ‘VM’.

A new logo was developed, a new brand colour unveiled, and a new website launched, to reflect the transformed VM, with an integrated approach to doing business.

Judith Forth-Blake, Group Chief Customer & Brand Officer, said with the changes implemented throughout the years, it was important to signal to VM stakeholders and the public in general, that the VMBS they had come to know, had indeed evolved to remain relevant for these times and was invested in them achieving financial well-being through

more than just mortgages and savings.

“We have built, and continue to build, a robust suite of products and have been innovative in developing solutions that meet the needs of Jamaicans at this time.

"We stand on our legacy and our expertise in financial services, and we have now transforming our brand to reflect the changes we have already made and those to come.

"This is a signal of our strength and reliability as a brand and a recommitment to financial inclusion for Jamaicans everywhere,” she said.

The VM Group is made up of the VM Building Society; VM Wealth Management; VM Pensions Management; VM Property Services; VM Finance; VM Money Transfer Services; VM Innovations and the VM Foundation.

“Many of our Members have an emotional attachment to us, having been the first banking relationship they formed, through our schools’ savings product.

"While we have evolved, our core commitment as a Member-owned institution, remains the transformation of their lives by advancing their financial well-being, through access to an even wider suite of solutions,” Forth-Blake said.

She said The VM Group’s new tagline, ‘Transform Your Everyday’, is a call to action to encourage Members and the public in general to make the first move of seeing what the new VM has to offer and “allowing us to guide them along their financial journey and help them to achieve financial well-being”.

“A new day has dawned at VM and we are better equipped and more motivated than ever to meet the needs of our Members and Clients globally.

"We have been making changes over the years to best accommodate their needs, as owners of our brand, and this transformation is a signal to them that we are an innovative and agile organization.

We are energized and eager to help them transform their lives – to transform their everyday.”

The VM Building Society has three Representative Offices in the United Kingdom, operating in Brixton and Tottenham in London and also in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

NEWS

Black Boy Lane Name Change HARINGEY COUNCIL’S Corporate Committee has taken the decision to rename Black Boy Lane to La Rose Lane.

The new name commemorates a local celebrated artist – John La Rose - who founded the first Caribbean publishing company in Britain and co-founded the Black Parents Movement from parents involved in the George Padmore Supplementary School to combat the brutalisation and criminalisation of young black people, and to agitate for youth and parent power and decent education.

John La Rose died on 28 February 2006. He is part of a Caribbean tradition of radical and revolutionary activism whose input has reverberated across continents.

Councillor Peray Ahmet, Leader of Haringey Council, in London, said: “We consulted on the renaming of Black Boy Lane in favour of La Rose Lane as part of a review of monument, buildings, place and street names, aimed at ensuring that our public spaces across Haringey are reflective and respectful of our wonderfully rich and diverse borough.

"A road name change is only a small aspect of the bigger picture in our fight against inequality.”

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SUTTON COLDFIELD PUB SET TO UNDERGO MULTI-MILLION POUND MAJOR RENOVATION T he Four Oaks pub in Sutton Coldfield, in the West Midlands, is set to undergo a major renovation, with stunning new interiors, an enhanced outdoor space and an outstanding new food offering, celebrating the very best of British produce.

The multi-million pound renovation and redesign of The Four Oaks is set to begin in February and will see both the interior and exterior spaces thoughtfully reimagined, ahead of officially reopening in May. Elevating the main entrance is a key part of the design and every detail will be carefully considered to create a hand-crafted feel. Inside guests will see a new curved ceramic bar, blackened steel bar fonts and limestone flooring, offset with elegant upholstery and real oak.

The extensive restoration of The Four Oaks will create 32 new jobs locally and provide increased dining spaces, with more than 180 people able to be seated inside and over 100 outside, putting The Four Oaks

firmly at the heart of the community.

Liam Smith, general manager at The Four Oaks, said: “We hope to create a cosy and inviting space to welcome guests at any time of day, whether they’re joining us for brunch or Sunday lunch, an afternoon beer or an evening with friends.

“Blending tradition with innovation, the pub will take inspiration from its original interiors with restored original floors and warming fires, which will be complemented by an exceptional outdoor scandi-style garden. Our food and drink offering at The Four Oaks will showcase the best of British farms and vineyards and the new menu will focus on outstanding food, from exceptional Sunday roasts to small plates and stix, perfect for shared grazing.

“There will also be an extensive selection of drinks on offer, including an innovative range of craft ales lagers and wine. We can’t wait to open the doors to The Four Oaks this May!” The Four Oaks pub will officially open in May.

RTPI Responds To Initial Levelling Up White Paper Briefing THE LEVELLING Up Secretary Michael Gove has released initial blueprints for the long-awaited Levelling Up White Paper. Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of RTPI (the Royal Town Planning Institute), has put together the following statement in response: “The Royal Town Planning Institute is reservedly optimistic of the Secretary of State’s initial briefing. There is clear recognition of the built environment’s vital role in addressing economic inequality and shifting power closer to communities.

Planning is more than delivering homes, it encompasses transport, health, work, environmental sustainability, and other policy areas across the missions that Michael Gove has mentioned.

“The regeneration of 20 towns and cities is a positive first step for the Levelling Up White Paper. Previous regeneration projects have put strategic planning at their heart and shown how the planning system can set the context for development, creating a more

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sustainable and healthier built environment. The RTPI hope the model established by these schemes can be adopted across England to help communities restore pride in the places they live, work and interact.

“Our members will be encouraged by these initial announcements.

Planners are passionate about the communities that they live and work in. Our members tell us consistently that being resourced appropriately to engage communities and reflect their needs in development is the most important factor. The right level of support can help to make a planner’s career fulfilling and bring planning professionals to the table early and often can create better economies of scale.

“The RTPI will be keeping a close watch in the coming days, but it is our ambition that the planning system will be provided with the adequate recognition and resourcing necessary to benefit housing delivery, better quality development and regional imbalances to create and shape communities that citizens can be proud of.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 5

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Business & Finance NEW JEWELLERY BRAND LAUNCHES IN THE UK

G

odin London, a new jewellery brand in the UK, has been launched by Orchid Global Sourcing.

The latest jewellery brand offers a wide range of rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, featuring stylish, chic, and minimal 9ct. Gold, Diamonds, and Gemstone jewellery that will be a perfect fit for the modernday working woman.

Derived from the Dutch word ‘Godin’, which means Goddess, the brand’s existence is an ode to bringing out and empowering the elegant and confident women from within them.

The Godin London collection promises to win sophisticated and cosmopolitan women with its earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces in white, yellow, and rose gold adorned with gemstones.

Founder of Orchid Global Sourcing, Abhishek Sharma, said: “I firmly believe that a woman can, simultaneously, feel different emotions, be different personalities, play different roles in the lives of others. So, we believe, that for her, the meaning of being a goddess cannot be restricted to one.”

About the new brand he further said: “Godin London is a brand very close to my heart that celebrates women, friendship, love by presenting them with a range of timeless pieces of jewellery that elevates their confidence.”

Each piece from the Godin

ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

by Dr. Christopher A. Johnson

O

l Godin Jewellery launches in the UK London collection is handcrafted with BIS Hallmark Gold, and IGI and GIA certified precious stones. Customers can choose from elegant and minimalistic 9ct. White Gold, Yellow Gold, or Rose Gold base pieces that are available in a wide range of

styles and sizes. Made-to-order pieces are also offered by Godin London, and they are delivered in 15-21 days.

When it comes to the price range, pieces start from just £99. “The idea is to make real Gold Jewellery affordable for

today’s women hence our range starts from 99£ and goes to the higher range as well. These are intricately handcrafted pieces of jewellery and we are providing next day delivery within UK”, Abhishek added.

DIB Hosts First Birmingham Event Of 2022

DOWNTOWN IN Birmingham (DIB) hosted their first event of 2022 at the Riva Blu Italian Bar and Restaurant, in Birmingham.

A lunchtime filled with relaxed networking and lunch with the professionals in the city, the first Birmingham event of the year got off to a great start as attendees were able to re-connect, mingle and get introduced to new members and prospects.

Commenting on the event, Lelia Smith from Promise PR said: “It was so lovely to get back to a Downtown event and make some brilliant new connections.

I can’t wait to see what’s in store

COPING STRATEGIES FOR THE SMALL FIRM A SECTOR

for 2022.”

Digital Glue Agency’s Camille Gill added: “Downtown in Business events are such a brilliant opportunity to network with ambitious, like-minded business professionals in our city. We love the relaxed yet productive atmosphere at DIB events – it’s a great forum in which to discuss all things business and, of course, a chance to meet potential/future clients”.

There are many up and coming events in Birmingham and other cities nationwide throughout 2022. For anyone interested in attending can visit our events calendar page. l

DIB hosts a successful first event of 2022

ver the past two years, businesses suffered economic, financial and social travail as lockdown measures were instituted to reduce infection rates and save the NHS for being overwhelmed.

Though completely necessary, these restrictions caused uncertainty to firms, at least in the short-term. Estimates suggest that SMEs incurred costs £120 billion plus.

“Beyond the unquestionable economic hit, we should also recognise that behind each of these small businesses is a small business owner”, Alan Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, Simply Business UK. Simply Business UK confirmed that London, Scotland and the North East of England, were among the regions mostly affected by the fall-out of the pandemic.

Over three quarters of firms received limited state support.

Yet, broadsheets and other newspapers, reported on the number of micro to small firms that mushroomed during 2020 and 2021.

These new enterprises are prevalent in sectors such as food and hospitality, light manufacturing, creative industries, transport and logistics, healthcare, transport and logistics, education and training as well social enterprise.

Over 20% of these companies were founded by under-40s in half a dozen or so UK regions.

Although financial support came from authorities including the government and financial institutions, the Bank of England confirmed in October 2021 that “There has been a larger increase in borrowing by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Many of these businesses had not previously borrowed. A high level of debt among UK

businesses can lead to risks to the financial system.

"Higher debt levels can cause businesses to cut back on employment and investment more in the face of economic shocks.

"This can have a negative impact on people’s jobs and incomes. Banks can also take losses if businesses struggle to pay back their loans”.

Effectively, if the small firm sector and its ‘operatives’ are to thrive in the next postpandemic phase, technical help and enterprise support will be imperative to rebuild consumer confidence and greater market stability.

For instance, what new opportunities exist for manufacturing firms (light and heavy inclusive)?

What will be the nature of a likely health and nutrition guidance for business owners, families and society generally, to maintain safety whilst preserving wellbeing?

What scope is there for economic orientation to rekindle and foster consumer trust generally?

What type of support is required for operators that provide essential services to the elderly, the young and other vulnerable citizens?

What steps are needed to reinforce the necessity for human resource management, to be at the centre of workforce development?

What other risk factors and their mitigation or alleviation, are likely to be ‘in play’ over the next two to three years of economic recovery?

With more evidence of debt concerns, shortage of materials and equipment, late payment, coupled with unaffordable business rentals, the time is opportune for state and local authorities, business associations, enterprise networks and members of the small firm sector, to work in tandem to formulate a definitive growth and development strategy for the long-term.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

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JOIN WITH THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY #BreakTheBias

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 7

Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

I

nternational Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

Queen Elizabeth II graces the front of this feature, simply because she is a phenomenal women of excellence in her own right.

Feature By: Daniel Riley FEATURES COORDINATOR

The Queen is Phoenix Newspaper Editor In Chief, Dr Marcia McLaughlin's inspiration and icon, as she has continually shown her poise and power in the line of duty.

On International Women's Day it is vitally important to ensure that girls and young women everywhere are able to see role models that look like them, from

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

all walks of life, all backgrounds, achieving and thriving even against all the odds, which is why this feature, and this day is so important.

Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day (IWD) is one of the most important days of the year to: • celebrate women's achievements • raise awareness about women's equality • lobby for accelerated gender parity • fundraise for female-focused charities International Women's Day first took place in 1911, with the colours of purple, green and white, signifying justice & dignity, hope and purity, albeit a controversial concept respectively.

The colours originated from the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908.

What's the International Women's Day 2022 theme?

The campaign theme for International Women's Day 2022 is #BreakTheBias. Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias

M

MS GEORGIE MOSELEY

makes it difficult for women to move ahead. Knowing that bias exists isn't enough. Action is needed to level the playing field.

The colors originated from the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908.

s Georgie Moseley is best known as Harry’s Mom and the Founder of HelpHarryHelpOthers.

“As founder and CEO for HHHO, I created what I wanted to see but wasn’t available when my son Harry was going through his battle with an inoperable brain tumour.

"During some deep reflection following my sons passing I was left with a lot of disbelief at the lack of support in the heart of the community regarding all the changes that occur in routine, lifestyle, and relationships.

“Everything seemed a waiting time and a referral process and endless appointments travelling all over the place (and often a wasted appointments where people just didn’t help). All of which was wasted time – time that I could have, and should have spent with my son.

“I decided to channel the frustration and not waste the incredible legacy my son had left through his own efforts.

"He had already raised over £750,000 in the last two years of his life from the age of 9-11 when he passed, as even he knew at a tender age that more needed to be done to support people going through cancer.

“With that in mind HHHO was made a registered charity in 2012, a charity that stands for all that I wholeheartedly believe in and desperately wanted to find when we were in that situation.

Between HelpCURE funding vital research, HelpCOPE helping families suffering financial hardship, and HelpCARE giving money to other amazing charities that support families going through cancer in the infancy of the charity, over £720,000 has been donated across about 12 projects.

“I think my proudest donation was £120,000 to St Marys Hospice which enabled the ‘Harry Moseley Family Suite’ to be built. This enables families to be together around the clock during a loved one’s final days / weeks.”

In 2015, HHHO Birmingham Drop-

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International Women's Day is not country, group, nor organization specific, and no one government, NGO, charity, corporation, academic institution, women's network, or media hub is solely responsible for International Women's Day.

in Cancer Support centre was born and since then Georgie’s feet haven’t touched the ground.

Every single day the centre makes a difference and are currently supporting over 900 families offering Drop-In emotional support, different levels of listening and counselling for adults and children, their own written support groups, debt and financial advice, housing advice, Menmatter men’s group, Time4Teens after school club, breast care and bra fitting, wig fitting and a range of holistic services including oncology massage.

“Whilst some of our services involving 1-1 touch have had to be suspended since the pandemic outbreak we offer every inch of support that a patient, relative, carer, friend or work colleague may need.

“I’m not going to lie, it’s a stressful role that has simply taken over my life however, I love the work I do and seeing the difference we all collectively as a team make on a daily basis.

"Its times like the pandemic that I think what a lifeline of support our services are and whilst we had to think on our feet, we are able to create new services to meet the ever-changing needs of our clients to ensure they have the support they need.”

“Diversity and inclusion are very important. Whatever the background, gender, age, religion, culture, sexual orientation of people, we are all individuals and if only we could all be open to an individual’s understanding, to have empathy for their take on a situation or life would mean our world would be a much nicer place.

“I think we should celebrate women every single day of the year. We certainly multitask with often not only being partners / wives, moms, grandmothers.

"Whether a woman is a stay-at-home mom or has a fabulous career, we get on with it and are often the engine for our families. We should always celebrate other women in our lives and remind them how fabulous they are.

The day belongs to all groups collectively everywhere.

So make International Women's Day your day and do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women!

“Media often focusses on all the negativity in the world (unlike your fabulous Phoenix Newspaper), Wouldn’t it be great if we could get daily/weekly stories of women and perhaps have a ‘day in the life of…’.

"Again, whether it’s a stay-at-home mom whose feet never touch the ground or a woman that’s holding down 2 jobs to make ends meet or a professional woman. Women are all amazing and sometimes we need to remind them of that.”

Georgie is inspired by people from humble backgrounds that make change for all. Those who are sincere and genuine and are not looking to create a platform for their own ego and who are genuinely working tirelessly for the good of others.

She remembers a project in Junior school when she was about 9 or 10 on leaders and Mother Theresa’ story really struck a chord with her. “I like lots of other people that enforce change, spread compassion, and make you stop and think.

They prove that anything is possible, just like my Harry. He has to be top of my list as he proved that regardless of your age, wealth, lifestyle, and wellbeing that you can change anything if you are passionate enough.”

“My message to any women would be that always remember, YOU can achieve anything in this life that you set your mind to. Whether it’s a selfless act of kindness or achieving goals to have a nice life.

"YOU are unstoppable as long as you believe in yourself, your vision and don’t let anyone dim your sparkle.

Whether you have had a supportive upbringing or not. As long as you love yourself and believe in yourself you can and will achieve anything with focus, hard work and determination.

"You are worthy of whatever you dream of and finally remember that “vision without action is merely a dream, vision with action can change lives or even the world”.

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D

r Dara Cotton is currently a dentist at the Scott Arms Dental Practice, where she is currently studying for her Diploma in Implant Dentistry with the Royal College of Surgeons in London, and enjoys partaking in implant and general dentistry across the globe and has attended lectures, study tours and conferences in many countries around the world, including Brazil, Dubai, Argentina and Switzerland.

Dara grew up in Berkshire, Wokingham, and has a twin sister, the twins went to The Holt School, where Dara was always into Science and Maths which she continued into her A levels.

“I wasn’t always sure I wanted to be a dentist, it was something that I was considering but for a fair while during my studies, I wanted to be a physics academic, studying quantum physics and particle physics.

“I actually needed some dental work doing myself, I was born without 4 teeth, they’re at the back so you couldn’t see them, but I wanted to have them replaced and learned about implant surgery, which is replacing the teeth with little metal screws, that you can then put a tooth on top of, and I thought that was absolutely amazing to be honest and thought more and more about it from there.”

“So it wasn’t even really that I wanted to be a dentist in the first place, it was I wanted to specifically be an implant dentist!”

It was the combination of being able to do surgery which Dara had always liked the thought of, even considering being a doctor at one point, and also the patient facing side of things.

“What dentists do can be life changing work, especially if you’re talking about a large number of teeth, and especially the teeth in the front of the mouth, more aesthetic teeth.”

After finishing her A Levels

DENTIST DR DARA COTTON LEADS THE WAY where she took 3 sciences and 2 maths, Dara took a gap year after deciding that she didn’t want to study Physics at Imperial College anymore.

“In that year I planned to work as much in dentistry as I could so if I apply for dental school they’ll find something appealing about me. I applied for a job as a dental receptionist, but luckily the owner of the practice down in Wokingham was in desperate need of a nurse, and offered me that position.

“I was open with them from the beginning that I was wanting to go to University the next year and he

l One of Dr Dara's paintings of the garden outside the sugery

saw it as a win-win, I would get hands on experience as a nurse and he’d get the job filled.”

Starting a few weeks after finishing her A Levels, Dara learned a huge amount of the year, sitting all of her pre-entry exams and interviews required for the Dentistry course. Dara had her pick of universities, and chose Birmingham to continue on her journey into Dentistry.

“I chose Birmingham mainly because when I had an interview with them I really enjoyed myself, it felt more like a discussion, and I felt if these are the kind of people that will be teaching me then I want to go there!”

Dara studied at Birmingham School of Dentistry, graduating with honours and was awarded the Leith Neumann Prize in Infection and Pathology and the Bowater Memorial Prize in Pharmacology and Therapeutics.

“My partner moved up to Birmingham with me, we’d grown up together in Berkshire, but when I finished University I realised I wanted to stay up here, and we’re getting married next month.”

Dara started work at the Scott Arms Dental Practice shortly after finishing Uni, she had been doing bits and pieces of admin work for them while studying, and has now been at the practice for 7 years.

“I dove straight into the implant side of things which is what I’d always wanted to do, got myself on the Royal College of Surgeons Implant Course, which is 2 years of training, plus a few years afterwards to collate your portfolio of cases.

“I’m hoping to sit the exam this Summer which will give me a Diploma in Implant Surgery.

Which is one of the ones I really wanted to be part of and is what my boss here has got too.

“I’ve done a few other bits of

training including soft and hard tissue grafting course, where if you’re missing gum or bone, getting it back to give you a good aesthetic result at the end.

To Dara, International Women’s Day is really important, “It’s a chance to bring to light people that you may not have heard of before. Last year I had a women’s calendar and every month there was a different woman to learn about, representation is important at all levels.

“I knew of women in the dental profession leading the way, not just in implant surgery but in maxillofacial too, and I found that amazing. Unfortunately there aren’t so many women in Implant Surgery, but I’ve been doing some work with Straumann trying to get more women interested too.

“I have always been into reading,

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 9

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

and found Harriet Beecher Stowe really fascinating in terms of a role model, what she did in terms of writing about slavery I always found that absolutely amazing and Uncle Tom’s Cabin is one of my favourite of all time.

“A more recent influence on me is Kamala Harris, who is undoubtedly one of the women I respect most. Even with recent fall in public approval she has been making headway on nearly impossible tasks in America and I am excited to see where her career goes and what more she can achieve.

Outside of Dentistry, Dara loves to paint, and paints a lot, including this painting of the garden outside the surgery. She also plays the piano and is teaching herself to play the saxophone too.

Dara is also really passionate

about Greek Mythology, especially the 1200BC era, which is when Homer wrote the Iliad.

“It’s something I’ve been obsessed with all my life but I can’t for the life of me remember how I first got into it! I’ve read the Iliad and the Odyssey in all different forms, Quintus Smyrnaeus and other Greek Poetry too.”

There are a lot of underprivileged women all over the world and there are a couple of amazing charities that Dara contributes to.

"I sponsor a girl in Bangladesh through ActionAid child sponsorship.

"The sponsorship programme means we can chat through letters and a team of ActionAid professionals keeps up with her progress in school etc.

"They do a lot of work in the local community and do their best to keep these girls in school rather than having young marriages.

"I also care deeply about homeless people and sponsor a room in Birmingham through Shelter that can house a homeless person for a night when they need it.

"Again, it is such a great charity and really helping women (and men) in homeless situations."

To the next generation, Dara wants to encourage those unsure of the path their future will take; “Don’t be disheartened if you don’t know exactly what you want to do, I didn’t but I’ve found this career that has turned out to be absolutely perfect for me.

“Don’t be upset it if takes you a bit longer to be certain of what you want to do, but when you’ve decided on it, give it your all and set goals for yourself. Decide where you want to be in a certain amount of time so you’ve got something to work towards. “

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

HENRIETTA BREALEY

H

enrietta Brealey is the current CEO of The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, working with businesses from start ups to multinationals on everything from finding customers and growing their profile locally to keeping on top of the latest innovations and developments and support trading internationally. “At the Chamber we love local and we go global.”

Henrietta explained.

“I started at the Chamber as a policy intern back in 2012 and fell in love with the place. I held a number of roles within policy, left briefly for a role in external affairs with the National Housing Federation, before returning to the Chamber in 2015 as Director of Policy & Strategic Relationships aged 25. I was appointed to the board as an executive director aged 28 and as CEO in 2021 aged 30.”

In her current role, Henrietta is responsible for leading the Chambers’ strategy and culture development as well as their external engagement.

“I find what I do genuinely exciting.

I spend my weeks working with incredible leaders in business, public and third sector - learning from them, collaborating with them to address challenges and helping them connect and find opportunities.”

How important is diversity and inclusion to you/your organisation?

"Very. One of the first projects I took on when I became CEO was undertaking a RACE Equality Code Assessment with the Governance Forum. And it was brilliant. Challenging, and brilliant.

"From it, we’ve put together our own action plan which has changed our perspective on D&I in its entirety on everything from how we train our colleagues to what we measure and prioritise as well as core governance and policies.

"For me personally, I have had some experience of feeling out of place – I was 25 when I started attending senior level stakeholder events (where, while I am seeing improvements, women of any age were generally in the minority) and I probably looked about 15.

"While I have no doubt it was entirely unconscious for others, for me I was highly conscious of needing to work twice as hard to be listened to or taken seriously – even on occasions when I was probably one of the more informed in the room on the topic in question.

International Women’s Day is a reminder that it’s not so long ago that things were very different on opportunities for and expectations of women in the UK for Henrietta.

"As we’ve seen in very clear examples recently, progress is not inevitable and

ingrained prejudices and structural biases take time and consistent focus to change."

IWD is also a chance to celebrate how far things have come on women’s equality, the incredible women making waves in all walks of life and the people of all genders that are very much about moving equality forwards.

"For me it’s less about celebration and more about representation and visibility. I’d love for us to get to a point where it’s not noteworthy to have a gender balanced board or leadership team (including women from diverse backgrounds – whether it be in terms of race, disability, sexuality or other characteristics).

"There is a lot of talent out there but we all – and I include myself here – can fall into the old traps of thinking about “who we know” or “who reminds me of me” or “this is how the job has always been structured so it must continue to be so” when recruiting.

"If each of us could have that front of mind, and not just on gender but all characteristics, all year round, the positive change could be huge.

Some of Henrietta's role models are colleagues that she's worked with at the Chamber, like her first manager, Katie Teasdale, who took Henrietta on as an intern.

"She taught me a lot about managing people. The importance of trust,

thephoenixnewspaper.com

empowering individuals, advocating for them when they’re not in the room and not being afraid to bring your personality to work too.

"Or the previous CEO Paul Faulkner who is an absolute pro at motivating and enthusing a team.

"My biggest role model is my mum.

She is incredibly intelligent, strongwilled, hardworking – she’s never let other people’s expectations of her hold her back (and if anything used them as a source of motivation) and taught me a whole lot of important life lessons about independence and valuing yourself.

As for our next generation, Henrietta has some sage advice; "Go for it! Every job I’ve had I convinced myself I probably wasn’t going to be the best candidate for or not really ready…but I might as well apply because, what have I got to lose?

"Turns out, I have been best candidate on multiple occasions.

It’s not your job to tell yourself that you’re not ready. Having had the privilege of meeting quite a lot of leaders I can safely say that, well, they’re all human.

"They’re normal people with strengths and weaknesses who have worked hard, worked smart and most importantly put themselves forward when opportunities arose. If it’s what you want, go for!"

SATINDER KAUR TAUNQUE OBE. DL.

S

atinder Kaur Taunque OBE DL, has held many varied positions over her career, working with children and adults as a Primary, Secondary and Adult Education Teacher, as well as an interpreter in a maternity hospital working in four languages.

“I’ve raised awareness of health issues including rickets, osteomalacia, AIDS and HIV by giving talks to ethnic minorities in Mosques, Hindu Temples and Sikh Gurdwaras, as well as helping girls and women who have run away from home due to domestic violence, the pressures of forced marriages and other reasons, while these issues were still taboo in the Asian community.

Satinder has also served as a school governor and member of the PTA, as well as being elected a public Governor and member of the appointing committee of Birmingham Women NHS Trust in 2009. In 2012 she was appointed

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Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, and later awarded an OBE from HM The Queen for voluntary and charitable services to inter-ethnic relations and to the community in the West Midlands in 2013.

“I am currently Patron of the mental health charity Springfield Mind which seeks to promote wellbeing and prevent mental health problems in Warwickshire & Worcestershire. I am passionate about improving the lives of others especially children, women and the most vulnerable in society.

Satinder believes that by being diverse and inclusive we can learn about new cultures, generate ideas, become role models for the younger generation, challenge misconceptions and create greater understanding in an ever-changing world.

“Being a woman from India, settling in England and working with both children and adults from a range ethnicities and protected characteristics (age; disability; gender reassignment; marriage and civil partnership; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion

or belief; sex and sexual orientation) and therefore for me diversity and inclusion is extremely important.”

"By being diverse and inclusive we learn about new cultures, generate ideas, become role models for the younger generation, challenge misconceptions and create greater understanding in an ever-changing world."

International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is very important to Satinder as it does two things. Firstly, it is a celebration of being a woman, embracing differences and recognising achievements.

It is also a chance to raise awareness of issues faced by women around the world at an international level and be allies for each other.

“I believe the conversation should continue. The issues that are raised on International Women’s Day should be revisited throughout the year.

"We should celebrate Women’s achievements when they occur whether they are in the field of music, film, sport, medicine, education or any other area in order to keep empowering and inspiring

them and others.”

Satinder's mother was a huge inspiration to her. She raised Satinder and her six brothers and sisters. "She encouraged us to do well in school and university and insisted we had the qualifications and skills to stand on our own two feet and lead ourselves whilst supporting others.

"I am impressed by women excelling in traditional male dominated industries such as running a newspaper like Dr. Marcia McLaughlin in her role as Editor-in-Chief of The Phoenix Newspaper. " Today, I see young women speaking out on life-affecting issues such as Greta Thunberg and Katie Piper, or having huge sporting achievements such as Emma Raducanu.

"All these role models were very few and far between when I was younger so I am glad we are seeing more and more empowering, motivating and inspiring women.

“My message to the next generation of young women is to never hold back in what you want to do, be strong in your convictions and work hard to achieve your dreams.”

0121 339 5885 or 0208 865 1922

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 11

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

COUNCILLOR CELIA HIBBERT

C

l Celia in Cameroon recently for the African Cup Of Nations (AFCON) elia Hibbert is the Labour Councillor for Penn Ward in Wo l v e r h a m p t o n , having beaten out her Conservative counterpart nearly 4 years ago by a mere 21 votes!

Born in Jos Town, Plateau State, Nigeria, Celia completed her primary and secondary education in Jos Town, before moving to Imo State for University.

“I actually dind’t want to do that, I wanted to play some form of sport, be that basketball or football, but I wasn’t allowed to do that, even though I was playing at county level.

“I used to have to hide my shoes and sneak out for games, each time I was found out I was beaten and told it was only for men, not for women.”

After completing her secondary education Celia applied to study Law, but unfortunately didn’t get the marks for that, so changed to studying English Literature.

A f t e r completing her studies, Celia moved to the UK i n 2008 and

settled in Wolverhampton, opting to start her Masters degree at the University of Wolverhampton.

“I did my Masters in Sports and Exercise Science - I found it amazing that this new country I was in would support you to do anything you wanted to, even if back home in Nigeria it would be frowned upon like sports – I even started playing football and volleyball again “I went on to have two girls, and now I’m so supportive of them doing sports, living my life through them.

“During that time on my Masters, I was working with Wolverhampton Wanderers Community Development section, delivering sports in the community to deprived families “I also did some journalism work with the English degree I had, I did some work in Nigeria as a newspaper editor, so here I worked with BEN Television, and a lot of work around media and magazines, supplying and editing content as well.

C e l i a continued to be active in the

community, which is actually what pushed her into politics, as a few people said she would be a good representative, and that she was very inspirational so why not run for local council.

“My dad was a politician, although he wasn’t officially elected, but he used to do all the work that I am doing now as a politician, he would pick up case work in the community, organise meetings and town hall campaigns, but he never officially ran for election, so I grew up in that sort of environment.

“I was doing the same things here, organising events and stuff and again I was being told that I was already doing what a local politician would do, even above and beyond, so why not apply?

“I had to ask them if women were even allowed to be politicians, because back in Nigeria, there are two members of parliament who are women out of the 27 local government positions we have, and I really look up to them. I’m in constant contact and I tell them each time how amazed I am by them, standing tall and strong in the face of everything.”

“I have a lot of role models, including Michelle Obama who I really really like, and Oprah, who I follow and see how she uses her voice.”

It was really important to Celia that she found a political party that aligned with her views, what she wanted and how she feel about the society we live in, and with Labour she saw the values of shared wealth, equal opportunities, and especially migrant voices.

“So I then registered to the Labour party, and not long after I became the women’s officer

locally, then women’s officer for Wolverhampton as a whole which was great, and then from there I enquired about how to become a councillor, did all my interviews and everything that was needed, and then I had to find a ward that I could represent.

“I applied to different wards and eventually was accepted by Penn Ward, and a lot of people were saying it was going to take a lot considering the seat is historically Conservative we did crack it in the end, I won by only 21 votes, but a win is a win!

“As a black woman, to come out on my first attempt and take a seat from the Conservatives was a massive achievement.”

Only a couple of years later, Celia got a ticket to run in the general elections in 2019, for Harborough, Oadby & Wigston, a constituency in the East Midlands. “That was a big achievement for me, only a few people in the country get to run as parliamentary candidates.”

Celia is going to put herself forward for the next General Election once again, hopeful that she will get a seat here in her ward.

“When I went to Harborough, the seat here had a Labour MP, so I couldn’t put myself forward for that, however unfortunately many Labour MP’s lost their seat at the last election, so there is the chance now that I could be chosen to represent.

“I truly believe I’m the councillor that can do that successfully, and win back the seat for the Labour party.

“I’ve done a lot of work in the community already that really the

MP for the area should be doing, but I’m picking it up, and I’m just a one-man-band. I don’t have an office for myself or resources like an MP does, or personal secretary, and yet I’m still managing to do all of this work.

“My first 4 years finishes this May, although I’m running again and see if I can retain the seat, which before I won it, was a strong Conservative seat. I did the leg work, and have been doing a lot in the community for a long time, ever since I came to this country so I think that played a role in winning.

Celia has recently led a campaign against the Local Government Boundary Commission, as they wanted to change the boundary of Penn, removing over 100 houses from her constituency.

“Penn is quite an affluent area, and people buy property here and are proud of it, so they didn’t want to go to a different ward.”

So Celia spoke with the residents, and the officers in the council said it will be difficult to challenge because all the parties were in support of the new proposal. Celia had to mobilise the people in the ward to put in a fight, “I couldn’t just give up.”

“After 4 months, the final proposal came out, and we managed to defeat that proposal, which was amazing! Everyone was flabbergasted, they’d never seen a Local Government Boundary change overturned ever, even the officers said that in their summary.”

Cllr Hibbert has international interests as well, which is mainly around womens empowerment.

“Having seen the differences

between here and Nigeria, especially around the underrepresentation of women in governance is something I want to help change.

“I do believe that young women should have a say in what goes on, back where I come from, which is why we’re campaigning for the development of governance to ensure at least 40% representation of women across the three arms of government.

“I’m hoping that if I do managed to become an MP, I can use that to help over there too.”

“International Women’s Day is one of the dates in the calendar that I treasure so much, I’ve actually got a number of events on that day, every year you renew your commitment, it’s absolutely vital, and you show everyone the urgency in ensuring that women are heard.

“This years theme is #BreakTheBias, and all the themes over the years have been important, as they have been giving everyone a focal point to mobilise around.

“Every year when you look back you see that progress has been made in a number of topics, and if this progression continues to occur, then people will start listening and join together to get the permanent change they are seeking.”

Celia recently visited Cameroon to attend the African Cup Of Nations (AFCON), spurred on after hearing Ian Wright on TV lambasting the UK Authorities on their insubordination towards the AFCON, and their suggestions that it should be cancelled, or that players shouldn’t go and play for their countries.

“I realised I was supporting the Premier League by going to see matches here, but I wasn’t supporting AFCON as an African, so I contacted the Nigerian Team The Super Eagles, and used the trip as an opportunity, in my own small way, to use my platform to blog about and promote the AFCON and Africa as a whole.

I met with the Nigerian High Commission in Cameroon to receive me officially, I got to meet the players and the other teams.

"There were so many employment opportunities around the competition, and so many people were influenced by these amazing international names playing right there on their soil.

“It’s not about shouting about racism here, it’s about positive action, and supporting the progression in your continent as a whole."

We wish her the best in the upcoming election!

l Celia winning the election in 2018 and became first black person to represent Penn

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0208 865 1922 (London)

Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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PROFESSOR

JACKIE DUNNE

P

rofessor Jackie Dunne is the Vice Chancellor of Newman University Birmingham, a position she has held since March 2020.

Prior to that, she was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Wolverhampton and held a number of senior posts at the University of Leicester.

“I started my academic career at Coventry University, as a Lecturer in Spanish after graduating from Liverpool University.

"My career

in higher education has had a strong theme around widening participation, regional engagement and lifelong learning and I am a Professor in Lifelong Learning and Skills.

“At national level I am also currently Chair of the Children’s University Trust and Vice-Chair of the Cathedrals’ Group of Universities.

"I feel very privileged to have worked in universities that are committed to creating educational opportunities and I love seeing the achievements and successes of our students.”

Newman University’s mission is to make a university education

available to all those who have the talent and motivation to benefit, regardless of background or previous educational experiences.

“Inclusion is at the core of what we do and we are proud of the diversity of our student body, with almost half of our students coming from ethnic minority backgrounds.”

“International Women’s Day provides an important platform for women to have a voice and create debate and conversation, and one of the most powerful ways to advance this agenda, in my experience, is by women supporting other women and this can happen all year round.”

While Jackie doesn’t really have any specific role models, she says she has learned a lot during her career from others, both male and female, and strongly believes that we never stop learning.

To the next generation, Jackie wants to instil something very important, which is “To always find ways to provide opportunities for others, in whatever context and at whatever level.”

DR ANITA BHALLA OBE

D

r Anita Bhalla is currently the Chair of B:Music, Interim Chair of the Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP and Vice- Chair at the University of Warwick, where she enjoys creating partnerships which lead to positive outcomes for our people and citizens.

"I love exploring new ideas and being able to facilitate change which changes people’s lives and supports our communities."

"Equality, Diversity and Inclusion should be at the heart of our policies and values and not be pigeon holed as a HR function.

"It is very important, and should be at the core of everything we do. If our people thrive our organisations thrive.

EDI is not just good for those people with protected characteristics, it is good for everyone in our organisation.

Anita has had a wide-ranging media career spanning over twenty six years with the BBC at a senior editorial and

managerial level where she has taken on leadership roles.

Outside of the media her public service has led her to take up key roles in the arts and creative industries, and more recently in health and education.

Anita has won several awards including the CRE’s Race in the Media National Television News Award. In 2009 she was awarded an OBE for her services to Broadcasting and Communities.

Why is International Women's Day important to you?

"There is a saying that Women hold up half the sky, yet we are still not given half the opportunities and in many cases the rewards which go with our experience and expertise.

"There are some extraordinary women around the world doing extraordinary things yet we don't hear their stories. " "They are in their own way changing generations and their environments.

The spirit of exploration and

commitment is alive and thriving in women today as it has been for centuries, we need to wake up to this amazing asset."

Anita believe that we should be celebrating women every second of every hour of every day of every week of every month of every year.

"You cannot just bring us out of a cupboard for one day, pat us on the back and then put us back."

Who are your role models?

"My Mum, simply the best. She coped with so much displacement in her life, came to this country in the early 60s brought up 6 children and was one of the first Asian women to work on the factory floor at Cadburys.

Amazing woman, and a great cook!"

"Be confident, follow your instinct.

Have a plan A but there are 25 letters in the alphabet so have a plan B,C,D etc.

"Remember to enjoy yourself along the way to achieving your goals."

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 13

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

ANGELIA CHRISTIAN

A

ngelia Christian, was born and bred in Jamaica and is a rare breed. Shortly after arriving in the UK she joined HMP Holloway working in 2 more establishments, HMP Scrubs last 10 years at HMP Pentonville as an Operational Officer, in charge of reducing re-offending rates of the inmates.

She was one of the first officers at Pentonville to work with offenders, using horticulture as a means of therapy and transition back into the community.

She also featured in HMPS Pentonville BBC Documentary, and won a diversity award in HMPS Pentonville.

Angel loved her job and the achievement of the inmates is what got her up in the mornings.

“I enjoyed my work at HMP Pentonville. The best project I have worked on there, is the staff memorial garden, which I designed & created with the inmates. It felt wonderful to see it growing and blossoming each day”.

Laying of plaques of officers that passed on, it sent a

message to the Governors and the rest of the community, that in the middle of all of today’s woes, that a place of peace and tranquillity can be established. It was the talk of the establishment.

When asked “What did you want to be at the age of seven?”

Angel’s response was, “I always wanted to be a doctor, but it just never happened”.

That’s her opinion, because to many in the community, it would seem she is very much taking care of and healing many others in the community here and in Jamaica.

Appropriately named Angelia Christian, was the apple of her mother’s eye, who like most mothers, wanted her daughter to grow up and be famous and through an unconventional route Angelia is achieving her mother’s wishes. Success to her looks like the things she is already doing.

It’s not necessarily about climbing the ladder fast, it about what you do, and how you touch others’ lives along the way.

Her day to day achievements added up to success and they include respect from

Governors, line managers, peers and inmates.

Creating a memorial garden where there was not one before, whilst achieving qualifications as a floral designer, and also training as an event organiser, helped her to organise an IKEA summer barbeque for over 700 staff, which also won her acclaim, though her fame came through her passion outside of HMP Pentonville.

The Angel Foundation is the charity set up as a result of an accident her two daughters had, whilst on holiday in Jamaica in 2011.

She found herself, with her daughters having to take a private ambulance to the hospital after a swimming accident, as no NHS ambulances were available.

In true Angelia style, after seeing how poorly equipped the St Ann’s Bay Hospital was, she came back to the UK, where her event organising and fundraising experience kicked in and raised enough money and in-kind gifts, to send two ambulances, several operating tables, trolleys and wheel chairs back to St Ann’s Bay Hospital, St Ann. Not only did this gain her great acclaim in the UK, but she is now quite famous in Jamaica, having been recognised by the government and media, but her work has not gone unnoticed in the UK, at work and in her local community - it looks like her mother’s wishes were granted.

Asked “What next?”, she explains she now has the bug for helping others even more.

Having accepted early retirement in late 2015, Angelia is a floral designer.

Now presentlyi in a Security Supervisor position at CocaCola Edmonton London, she wants to work with the wider community in Education and is concentrating her efforts on building IT Suites in Primary Schools in rural areas in Jamaica.

Tips she would pass on to others: Believe in yourself, be consistent, be honest, respect yourself and others.

Since 2011 Angel has donated 2 Ambulances, a Mobile Blood Unit, over 60 thousand hospital equipment, 100 beds and wheel chairs.

She’s also donated Debrillators with ECG Leads, blood pressure machines, and 200 sheets for surgery.

Chairs UK Embassy donated 2 laptops.

In 2014 Angel was awarded as the London Community Charity Champion by WORD4WEAPONS, Metropolitan Police & Salvation Army and was featured in the Salvation Army’s War Crime Magazine, Street Pastor Lady Sainsbury Awarded Kiwanis 24 State Outstanding work to the Community. she has also received the Minstry of Health NERHA Achievement award, and a Jamaica UK Task force award from the UK and awards from Afro Caribbean Networks.

There’s something for everyone at

Symphony Hall and Town Hall Nashville Sounds in the Round Wed 9 Mar Symphony Hall

Camilla George Tue 15 Mar Symphony Hall Stage

Aretha’s Anthems with Black Voices Sun 20 Mar Symphony Hall

Housewarming Sessions: Ibou Tall Fri 25 Mar Symphony Hall

Reginald D Hunter: Bombe Shuffleur Wed 30 Mar Town Hall

Heather Small Fri 8 Apr Town Hall

Book Online: bmusic.co.uk

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Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

thephoenixnewspaper.com

THE EDUCATION, FUNERALTRAINING OF MOMMA AND JEN RECRUITMENT

g n i t o Prom xcellence E C

olmore Junior and Infant School is one in the next round of Birmingham schools that will benefit from a Car Free School Street, this Easter.

Car-Free School Streets enable children to commute sustainably to and from school because they provide greater protection from road accidents and pollution. Prior to making a Car Free School Street permanent, The Active Wellbeing Society holds a day's active travel closure on each street, in preparation.

An active street day occurred last month at Colmore Street, outside the school in King’s Heath, where a section of the street was reclaimed from 1 to 4:15pm, to help engage parents, residents and the school, ahead of its long-term closure.

Cabinet Member for Transport

and Environment, Councillor Waseem Zaffar said: “The continued expansion of car-free school streets, across Birmingham is particularly beneficial to children.

“I wholeheartedly support this development because it provides both immediate physical protections from motorised vehicles while also contributing to reducing pollution. I am delighted to see Car Free School Streets gaining momentum throughout the city.”

Five more Car Free School Streets are preparing to join the 12 already active in Birmingham, at the following: • Brownmead Academy - Shard End • Colmore Junior and Infant School - Perry Common • Court Farm Primary School Perry Common

• St Dunstan’s Catholic School Brandwood and Kings Heath • Nansen Primary School - Allum Rock Feedback from residents about established Car Free School Streets has been extremely positive: more than 80% said they wanted the scheme to continue on their road.

Permits will be issued to residents whose access is affected by the road closure. Blue badge holders, emergency services and health visitors will be exempt.

A fixed penalty notice, with a £50.00 charge, may be issued to anyone else who drives in a Car Free School Street, during the restricted times. Car Free School Streets is a part of the Modeshift Stars scheme which provides a range of initiatives to support safer, greener and healthier educational

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.

CAR FREE SCHOOL STREETS SPRING UP AROUND BIRMINGHAM

and workplace travel.

l Colmore School pupils (L-R): Mateusz (10), James (11), Muhammad (11), Luke Rainbird (Active Well-being), PC Woodruff WM Police, Cllr Waseem Zaffar, Jon Gale, Head of Colmore School, Samantha Beckett (Active well-being), Peter Edwards ( Birmingham City Council), and Colmore School pupils: Midhat (10) and Clementine (10)

Change In Direction Led To Legal Career With Law Firm A SOLICITOR IN THE making didn’t give up on her dream of forging a career in law - even if it meant following a different route.

Holly Moxon had signed up to study law at the University of Liverpool along with 300 other students but even when she figured that the course wasn’t a right fit, she refused to give up on her goal of training to become a solicitor. Instead, she spotted an opening for an 18-month apprenticeship in business administration at her local law firm - identifying it as a great way of getting started in the industry.

During the apprenticeship, Holly, 24, impressed with

her willingness to find out more about the industry and she made it clear that it was her intention to stay in law and work towards becoming a qualified solicitor.

After completing her business apprenticeship, Holly began the

solicitors' apprenticeship. As part of the training programme, she will spend time working within all of Cartmell Shepherd’s departments to experience different aspects of the legal firm’s work.

Her course involves one day of online study each week through a programme run by the BPP University in Manchester, with the other four days spent getting handson, practical experience with the law firm.

Peter Stafford, Managing Director of Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, said: “Legal apprenticeships offer great opportunities to identify and nurture talent.

Holly is a great asset to Cartmell Shepherd and we were delighted to be able to offer her the opportunity to pursue her ambition of becoming a solicitor through our apprenticeship programme.”

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 15

FUNERAL OFRECRUITMENT MOMMA JEN EDUCATION,THE TRAINING AND

Local Youngsters Land Apprenticeships With The Canal & River Trust 22 PEOPLE HAVE secured apprenticeships at the Canal & River Trust after benefiting from the landmark Kickstart scheme to create job opportunities for 16-24year olds.

The West Midlands Combined Authority is leading the region in promoting the Kickstart scheme, working in partnership with local councils and Chambers of Commerce to help young people in the UK who are struggling to find long-term and suitable work. The Trust took on over 60 Kickstarters in 2021 and is now celebrating 22 of those successfully moving on to a full-time apprenticeship with the charity.

Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “Hearing positive stories of those who have signed up to the scheme then going onto full time apprenticeships is a testament to the hard work local businesses and young people do to help us achieve this goal. I urge our young people to search online to see the number and range of opportunities available on their doorstep.”

Kickstart funds employers to create six-month paid jobs for

16- to 24-year olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of longterm unemployment, enabling them to gain hands-on experience while getting paid and boosting their future job prospects.

Kelly Hemus, Early Careers specialist at the Canal & River Trust, said: “When the Kickstart scheme came about, it was a real opportunity to showcase what the Canal & River Trust is all about and gave youngsters the opportunity to see if the work was something they wanted to commit to before signing up to a full-time apprenticeship. The scheme has also allowed us to rethink the way we bring in future apprentices as it gives us time to work alongside them and see if the enjoy the tasks that we set them.”

MAJOR INVESTMENT UNDERWAY TO EXPAND CITY SCHOOLS

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number of schools across Wolverhampton are receiving substantial investment to expand in order to allow them to welcome more pupils.

Four schools are being permanently expanded to meet rising demand for places, including St Bartholmew's CE Primary School, Hill Avenue Academy, Moreton School and St Edmund's Catholic Academy. In total, 710 additional places will be created in the four schools.

Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Work, said: "We know that the environment in which children learn can make a big difference to their education and over the last 15 years or so we have invested hundreds of millions of pounds in the redevelopment and refurbishment of much of Wolverhampton’s school estate, primarily through the Building Schools for the Future programme.

"It's very good news that a number of local schools are receiving fresh investment to expand their numbers which I know will be much welcomed by

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l Pupils and staff observe the expansion of their school pupils and staff alike.”

St Bartholomew's Headteacher Rachael Kilmister said: "We are incredibly excited about the building of our three new Early Years Foundation Stage classrooms.

"The extra space has enabled us to expand our school, offering 15 additional places per year

group moving forward. Access to outdoor learning, which is so important for our pupils, will be significantly enhanced and the modern, purpose-built, specifically designed indoor provision will provide a wonderful learning environment for our early years children."

Katy Kent, CEO of the St

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Bartholomew’s CE Multi Academy Trust, added: "We are so pleased about the new building at St Bartholomew’s, as this expansion means that more children can become part of the St Bart’s family and thus benefit from the excellent teaching and wonderful nurturing environment already in place at the school.”

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ADOPTION & FOSTERING Adoption UK CEO Stepping Down From Role

NEW PODCAST SERIES EXPLORES THE UNIQUE ISSUES OF BLACK GIRLS WHO EXPERIENCE FOSTER CARE IN THE US

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new podcast series has begun that will explore the unique issues of Black girls who experience foster care in the U.S.A. Diaries of A Black Girl in Foster Care (which uses @BlkGrlDiariesFC on social media platforms) began with three episodes that addresses cultural issues, racial disparities and stereotypes that organisers argue have contributed to poor

outcomes for Black girls in America’s various foster care systems.

“Everybody can get something out of this, not just Black girls but the community that’s supposed to love them and protect them,” said Tashia Roberson-Wing, a graduate student at Ohio State University that developed the idea for the series. For Black girls listening to the series, she said: “This is a place where you

feel valued and affirmed. You will definitely going to be seen.”

Other contributors to the podcast, all of whom experienced foster care themselves, include: • Kaysie Gettie, a senior program analyst at the Centre for the Study of Social Policy • Amnoni Myers, author of You Are the Prize!

• Alexandria Ware, who leads her own consulting firm • Angela Quijada-Banks, author

of The Black Foster Youth Handbook The three planned episodes was set to take on safety in foster care; Black women in the child welfare profession and restorative care; and the “adultification” of Black girls in the system. The first episode on safety in the system was recorded live on the group’s Facebook account and all three episodes were released on the Spotify podcast stream and on

YouTube.

The second session on the child welfare workforce planned for March 16 at 7pm EST, will also be recorded live.

“The third session will be prerecorded and then released on April 20, with two additional sessions tentatively planned for May and June,” Roberson-Wing said.

Post Adoption Support Lifeline Extended For Adoptive Families

THE ADOPTION Support Fund (ASF) has been secured until March 2025, the Department for Education has confirmed.

This will take the ASF to its tenth year of funding.

No details have yet been announced about the size of the fund or any changes to the way it operates, following a review last year.

The ASF funds therapeutic support for families in England

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whose children left care through adoption or special guardianship arrangements.

These children are likely to have experienced severe trauma prior to coming into care and many need therapeutic support to help them thrive.

Responding to the announcement, Adoption UK’s chief executive Dr Sue Armstrong Brown said: “This is very good news, anxiously awaited by the adoption

community. The Adoption Support Fund is a lifeline for thousands of families who are parenting some of the most vulnerable children in the country.”

Since its introduction in 2015, the Government has invested more than £200m in the ASF. Around 61,000 families have benefitted from the fund.

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SUE ARMSTRONG Brown, CEO of Adoption UK, has announced she is stepping down after 5 years in the role.

Since joining Adoption UK in 2017, Dr Armstrong Brown has championed the interests of the adoption community, growing the charity’s activities around three pillars: connection, support and influence. Under her leadership, Adoption UK has doubled in size, enabling it to significantly increase its work across all four nations of the UK. Overseeing the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring that the voice of adopters is recognized within key legislative decisions, and leading the development of the organisation, Sue originated the flagship Adoption Barometer, the only annual UK-wide report on the experiences of the adoption community, pioneered developments in the charity’s unique peer support services and secured lasting improvements in policy and practice for families affected by the impacts of early childhood trauma.

With a 25-year track record of helping charities achieve their goals with government, she led the development of the charity’s Raising Our Voice strategy, with its focus on strengthening Adoption UK’s role as an advocate.

Trustees will start the recruitment for Adoption UK’s next CEO, who will work with them to build a vision for the next phase of the charity’s support for young people, adopted adults and the wider adoption community across all four nations of the UK.

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MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS

MARCH 2022

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THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE RUGBY

ENGLAND RUGBY LEGENDS MIKE TINDALL AND JAMES HASKELL TAKE THEIR PODCAST ON TOUR

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Union J announce eagerly awaited 10th Anniversary reunion show

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ward-Winning, X Factor alumni, Union J have announced their reunion for a very special 10th Anniversary show.

Performing a headline show at the iconic, London Palladium on Saturday 28th May 2022.

All four original members will be coming back together for the first live performance in over six years.

Speaking of their reunion Union J said: “We’re so excited to be back! We can’t wait to be on the stage together as a four again and to be reunited with our wonderful fans.

"The London Palladium

is such an incredible venue and it feels like the perfect return to live shows for us as a group. After the journey we’ve had, we know it’s going to be a night that we’ll remember forever!”

Union J, catapulted into the mainstream, after being handpicked and brought together by boy band mogul Louis Walsh during the ninth series ITV’S The X Factor.

Performing each week, they quickly amassed a loyal fanbase and went on to finish fourth in the competition, and subsequently signed to RCA records, releasing their debut single Carry You just six months later in summer 2013.

Before their disbanding

in 2016, Union J achieved success, with 4 UK Top 10 singles (including 2 No.1 Physical singles) and a debut UK Top 10 album, Winning Best British Breakthrough at the BBC Teen Awards, selling out arena shows, performing to millions on National TV, and making their Hollywood debut as ‘Heartthrobs’ on Kick-Ass 2 performing their standout single Carry You. A decade on, all four original members of Union J are reuniting to celebrate their 10th Anniversary, performing at London’s iconic, illustrious West End Theatre, The London Palladium, on 28th May 2022.

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he sudden death of Jamal Edwards sent waves of sadness around the world as his loss was felt by the stars who he launched - and the countless young people he inspired as a role model for cultural change.

"We all die,” he once tweeted.

“The goal isn't to live forever; the goal is to create something that will."

15 when he got a camcorder for Christmas, Jamal started filming his friends rapping on the council estate he grew up in west London, before, in 2006, setting up SBTV (his rap name was SmokeyBarz) to upload videos of breakthrough talent to YouTube - at a time when rap and grime was unheard of in the charts.

Creating a platform for underground talent like Dave, Ed Sheeran, Stormzy, Lady Leshurr, Jessie J, AJ Tracey, Krept & Konan and Headie One, some of their earliest performances appeared on the channel. By the age of 23, Jamal was a multimillionaire and began channelling his success into helping others - founding grassroots youth charity JE Delve, to run youth clubs in the capital.

"I come from a humble background,” he once said. “It is nice to be comfortable, and be able to buy things for friends and family. But I'm not motivated by the money."

The son of singer and ITV’s Loose Women presenter Brenda

ENTERTAINMENT

JAMAL EDWARDS – HE MADE A CHANGE Edwards – who he described as his “ultimate cheerleader” - he became an ambassador for the Prince's Trust and, in 2014 he was awarded an MBE for his services to music. But he was always remained aloof.

"I always wanted to be the Banksy" he once said. "I wanted no-one to know who I was."

But that mindset would change in 2011, when he featured in a Google Chrome advert. A video previously shared by Edwards in 2020 is out again showing mother, Brenda, waiting for her son to appear in a storefront fashion advert.

Screenwriter Ameir Brown remembers watching a Google Chrome advert featuring Jamal's journey, and how he built up such a huge music platform.

"I just kept watching that advert again and again and again," he says. "It was just a massive inspiration boost for me.

“It made me realise that it takes a lot of self-belief and grinding to get to do what you want to do."

He (Ameir) says having Jamal as a role model helped that.

Also an entrepreneur in residence at Sussex University, Jamal once told students: "No question is ever off limits," as he regularly shared contacts, opportunities and advice.

Like Ameir, social producer, Arlène Dihoulou said she owes a lot of her motivation to Jamal and SBTV. "He definitely played a part in my desire to become a producer", she recalls. "At the time, I didn't know what a producer was.

“I just knew that Jamal made films. These young Black British people were creating a space that was by them, for them for us."

Jamal tweeted a link to what would be one of his final interviews, where he talked about his latest project and how he wanted to give young people the space to explore who they were.

"I just feel like I have to give back", he said at the time. "Be the change you want to see in the world", his tweet went on to say.

And change, for Jamal Edwards’ sake, is coming!

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l Jamal Edwards, left, with Editor and Founder of Street Cred Magazine Mark Dwayne

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Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor in sincere conversation about Indian cinema and football

By Delroy Constantine-Simms

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and Sonia Dixon

ollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor visited Expo 2020 Dubai on Sunday (13 February) and delighted thousands of fans with photo opportunities and a live Q&A session at the Jubilee Stage.

Ranbir Kapoor a multi award winning Indian actor is one of the highest-paid actors of Hindi cinema, who’s been featured in Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list since 2012.

He is also the co-owner of Indian Super League football team Mumbai City FC. Kapoor rose to prominence in 2009 with his performances in the comingof-age film Wake Up Sid, the romantic comedy Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, and the drama Rocket Singh: Salesman of the

Year.

Shortly before taking to Expo’s global stage, Kapoor, 39, spoke about Indian cinema, his visit to Expo 2020 Dubai, and what he planned to do during his short stay in the city.

World Expos are an incredible opportunity to celebrate culture from around the world. What makes India’s movie industry so special and well-loved?

I think it comes down to culture, heritage, value system, and storytelling. One of the biggest hits of Indian cinema and one of my favourite movies is Amar Akbar Anthony, and it’s the coming together of different cultures, which is loved by so many people. So, I think Indian movies really represent that, the celebration of life, family, the

value system, music and good storytelling.

What are your impressions of Expo 2020 Dubai?

his is my first visit to Expo. In fact, the first time I have ever visited a World Expo, and it’s been amazing so far. Seeing so much culture under one roof is quite exhilarating.

I have visited the India Pavilion and the UAE Pavilion, and just to understand the roots of the nations, their culture and heritage, has been amazing.

and I think what it teaches you is discipline, teamwork, and you also get good exercise in. I try and play [football] at least once or twice a week, and I think you can really relate to the things you learn from a sport into your profession. It really works in a good synergy together, and I think everybody should play a sport.

You are a huge football fan and the co-owner of Mumbai City FC. Beyond health and fitness, what do you think are the other benefits of sport?

I think sport is very important.

Fortunately for me, I’ve been a football player since school,

Birmingham REP Announce A Glimpse Behind The Scenes On Free Open Day BIRMINGHAM REP offered members of the public a chance to take a peek behind the scenes at the city’s only premiere producing theatre with a free Open Day. The full day of activities took the public behind the scenes of Birmingham’s famous theatre, the only large-scale theatre in the city that builds all of its own productions on site from scratch, including huge sets and beautiful costumes.

Artistic Director, Sean Foley and Executive Director, Rachael Thomas said: “We were thrilled to throw open our doors and inviting into their theatre for a day packed full of free activities. The Rep is a theatre for everyone, so all were welcomed.”

The Open Day including short backstage tours led by The Rep’s dedicated volunteers as they took visitors on a look around the fascinating theatre building.

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They learned about The Rep’s long theatrical history and took a peek at backstage spaces usually closed to the public including the huge workshop and paint shop where sets are created from scratch for Rep productions.

The Rep’s Costume Sale allowed visitors a rare chance to riffle through rails of fabulous items and outfits from the theatre’s costume stores. The Rep’s renowned wardrobe department has been making costumes in their current building for 50 years, with many gems discovered. All proceeds raised went toward the Open House Appeal.

All attendees also manage to delve into the rich theatrical history with a variety of fascinating talks hosted by The Rep’s volunteers, plus also had the chance to watch as Young Rep members perform extracts from some of Shakespeare’s most notable works throughout the theatres Foyer spaces.

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Global Superstars Coldplay Rock Expo 2020 Dubai GLOBAL SUPERSTARS Coldplay rocked Al Wasl Plaza with a never-before-seen show at Expo 2020 Dubai, combining an incredible musical experience with a powerful environmental message.

The performance, in support of Expo 2020 Dubai’s Programme for People and Planet and part of the exciting Infinite Nights Series, thrilled the Al Wasl audience, with thousands more fans watching around the site and the concert streamed online across the globe.

“I hope this isn’t the last time we can play for you here,” Chris Martin said. We’d like to thank [Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai] Reem – ‘The Reem Team’ – for bringing us here and putting on this really cool Expo... There’s all these pavilions teaching us how the world can be better and kinder and cleaner and greener…Thank you for being such a wonderful audience.”

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 21

ENTERTAINMENT

Grammy nominated Saweetie unveils breezy new single ‘Closer'

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he Grammy-nominated star Saweetie teams with R&B chart-topper H.E.R. for a breezy, sensual new single, ‘Closer’.

The dance-infused track finds the duo serving up playful lines and seductive melodies, reaffirming Saweetie’s penchant for making hits that feel nostalgic, yet uniquely hers.

‘Closer’ is released as Saweetie’s profile is bigger than ever. With over 3.7 billion career streams to date, she has been nominated for two Grammy Awards this year, for Best New Artist and Best Rap Song for ‘Best Friend’, which comes hot on the heels of her being named as Billboard's Women In Music Game Changer. She also hosted this year’s MTV MVAs. In the UK, ‘Best Friend’ became Saweetie biggest hit to date as well as her second Top 40 single after ‘Tap In’. ‘Best Friend’ was propelled by huge radio support which included playlists at Radio

1 (B-list), 1Xtra (A-list) and Kiss.

She also guested on Little Mix’s Top 10 smash ‘Confetti’.

H.E.R.’s breathy, emotive hook is a fitting accompaniment. With a beat designed to soundtrack a dancefloor, and lyrics that call you there, ‘Closer’ is a mesmerizing single that demands to be repeated.

Buckle up and prepare for a wild ride when Saweetie unveils the Hannah Lux Davis directed video.

From her forthcoming debut album, ‘Pretty Bitch Music’, ‘Closer’ only continues Saweetie’s recent streak of dynamic hits, having unloaded ‘Icy Chain’, a glitchy, self-assured song she performed on Saturday Night Live in November.

She’s also built momentum with infectious tracks like ‘Best Friend’ with Doja Cat and ‘Back to the Streets’ with Jhené Aiko, plus recently contributing ‘Get It Girl’ to Issa Rae’s Insecure: Music from the HBO Original Series Season 5.

In 2021 she shared ‘Attitude’,

a confident track that appears on the soundtrack to Halle Berry’s Bruised.

It’s all proof of her knack for club anthems filled with memorable hooks and aspirational images of wealth.

Her undeniable impact has led to plenty of GRAMMY Awards buzz with two nominations: Best Rap Song for ‘Best Friend’ and Best New Artist, making Billboard, Variety, and more nominations prediction lists.

In addition to partnerships with McDonald’s, MAC, Crocs, and more, Saweetie won a 2021 MTV VMA for Art Direction on ‘Best Friend’, 2021 BET Hip-Hop Award for ‘Hustler of the Year’ and was nominated for an American Music Award and a People’s Choice Award. With ‘Closer’ at her back and her debut album, ‘Pretty Bitch Music’, on the way, Saweetie is in a prime position to make 2022 her best year yet.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

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Food & Fine Dining MAKING MOTHER'S DAY A SPECIAL ONE Y

ou have a chance to treat your special Maman to homemade, beautifully fragrant, beauty essentials for a spa-at-home experience by upcycling your empty Bonne Maman jars.

A gift set containing luxurious 'Pomegranate Rose Sugar Body Scrub', 'Eucalyptus Fresh Mint Foot Soak' and 'Coconut Lemongrass lip balm' that are simple to make and housed in Bonne Maman Compote, Conserve and Mini jars. Add a personal touch by tying a thoughtful note to your Mum around the top and present in a gift bag. Joyeuse Fête des Mères…

Every Mum would be delighted by a delicious breakfast in bed. Put together a breakfast tray of golden croissants, warm sourdough or sweet muffins with Bonne Maman Conserves and new Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. For an extra special Mother's Day treat, a glass of champagne never goes a miss!

Bake with love and try these scrumptious Thumbprint Shortcakes using new Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. Stack together, tie together with a ribbon and present in a gift box with a jar of Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. For an alternative to chocolate, these Zesty Lemon, Thyme & Mirabelle Mini cakes filled with luscious spring-time flavours make a sweet, thoughtful and absolutely delicious Mother's Day Gift. Tie with a ribbon, attach a gift tag et violà!

Head Chef At Fine Dining Pushkar Announced As Finalist At The Asian & Oriental Chef Awards THE HEAD CHEF at Birmingham's fine dining Indian Restaurant, Pushkar Cocktail Bar & Dining has been announced as a finalist at the Asian & Oriental Chef Awards.

Pushkar’s Head Chef, Vinod Singh has been announced as a finalist and will be invited to a live final cook-off event, to be held at Pillars Kitchen, at the University of West London, in late February.

The Asian & Oriental Chef Awards are open to the countries professional chefs across all Asian and Oriental cuisines, nominations were invited from members of the public, restaurant critics, food journalists, bloggers and restaurateurs.

Organised by the Asian Catering Federation (ACF), which represents the UK’s 30,000 Asian and Oriental restaurants and takeaways, eight shortlisted chefs will be invited to compete at a cook-off, in Ealing, before a panel of independent judges.

Scores will be determined on criteria of innovation, technical skill, nutrition hygiene, creativity

and flavours.

Winners will be announced on the day and presented at a dinner being held at the Cholmondeley Room & Terrace, overlooking the River Thames, in early March.

This is all following on from Pushkar’s recent success of being crowned Best Indian Restaurant in the West Midlands at the British Curry Awards.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Shoot Festival Announces Line-Up For 2022

Pioneering National Open Youth Orchestra announces debut performances & world premiere

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he National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) has announced its first ever series of concerts taking place across the UK from April to June 2022.

The series includes: ● First performances of a ground-breaking national youth orchestra where talented young disabled and non-disabled musicians play together ● Live premiere of ‘What Fear We Then?’ by Alexander Campkin, cocommissioned with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra ● Accessible and electronic instruments such as the Clarion, LinnStrument and Seaboard RISE alongside more familiar acoustic instruments ● Double-headliner concert with BSO Resound at Lighthouse, Poole The National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) is a world first; an ambitious orchestra launched in September 2018 to give some of the UK’s most talented young disabled musicians a progression route.

It promotes musical excellence, supporting 11-25 year-old disabled and non-disabled musicians to rehearse and perform together as members of a pioneering inclusive ensemble.

Some of the National Open Youth Orchestra musicians play acoustic instruments; others, electronic instruments like the Clarion, which can be played with any movement of the body.

NOYO collaborates with cuttingedge composers to create exciting new music for a diverse range of musicians and instruments.

Across this new concert series, audiences will enter a captivating musical universe where the familiar merges with the unknown across a broad

SHOOT FESTIVAL returns this year with a mix of commissioned pieces and showcases of the best of Coventry’s arts scene.

The festival’s ‘In Bloom’ features artists from past editions who have been commissioned to create new work across a range of disciplines including performance, sound and visual art.

There will also be a programme introducing local artists to celebrate the richly diverse arts scene of Coventry City of Culture – young and old.

In Bloom features Gamble - theatre/live art show about online gambling addiction by Hannah Walker and Rosa Postlethwaite, as well as Protests, Hymns and Caskets by lanaire Aderemi, which

ranging contemporary classical programme.

In four separate concerts, over twenty of the UK’s most talented young disabled and non-disabled musicians will take to the stage together for the first time as NOYO, playing exciting new music inspired by the diversity of the orchestra.

NOYO will present a beautiful new work, ‘What Fear We Then?’

by Alexander Campkin, cocommissioned with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

Commenting on the collaboration with NOYO, Alexander Campkin says: “It took me on a journey of discovery - a journey of questioning myself and my own background.

“I've used my own personal journey to depict the story of this piece. I started playing the viola when I was a child, but then when I was 17, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Suddenly I was told, no, you can't play anymore because you have this disability.

“I didn't tell anyone I’d been diagnosed with MS. It was a secret that put an extra barrier. I was hiding for almost 20 years. And it was only a couple of years ago that I was open and suddenly the world felt a bit easier.

“It's so inspiring seeing NOYO work around any barriers that musicians might have to be able to realise their artistic visions.”

The afternoon’s music will be a joyful celebration of diversity as a creative force that can push the boundaries of classical and contemporary music in exciting new directions.

NOYO harpist, Holli, who is in her third year with the orchestra, says: “I like the word influential to describe NOYO."

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recounts Nigeria’s feminist movement who overthrew colonial taxation in 1947 - its important and legacy.

The Sound: In Bloom is presented in partnership with The Tin Music & Arts – highlighting local saxophonist Koyesax, folk music duo Rosso and Mahendra Patel, with his band Elephant in the Room, who have been assembled especially for Shoot Festival 2022.

Michael Snodgrass (aka Snod) is the in the Visual Art strand, presented in partnership with Coventry Artspace, with his new exhibition ‘Moments of Broken Promises’.

Shoot Festival has given seven opportunities to local emerging producers, who will each work with the senior team to produce a specific strand of the festival.

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St. Croix to host musical fiesta

S

t. Croix was the place to be over President’s Day weekend with live music taking centre stage amidst a stellar line-up of top local and regional artistes.

“So long I ain’t see you,” crooned Division of Festivals Director Ian Turnbull as he announced that ‘Fête.Vibe.Soca’ was to be headlined by Trinidad and Tobago soca sensation Nadia Batson and her all-female band, well known for hit songs including “So Long” and “Catching Feelings”.

The outdoor action took place at the Frederiksted Pier and featured Virgin Islands star performers Cool Session Brass, Pumpa, VIO International and DJ Big Kyat. The Division of Festivals offered support to an independently produced reggae concert, featuring the U.S. Virgin Islands’ own Pressure Busspipe and Jamaican Dexta Daps, at the Frederiksted Pier, offering patrons a star-studded weekend of

entertainment.

The capacity-controlled soca event only accommodated vaccinated attendees, who had to provide a verifiable vaccination card to enter. USVI Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte said the event was part of the Territory’s “Vaccinate to Party Safe” initiative.

“We have been a leader in

the Caribbean throughout the pandemic, not only in terms of tourism arrivals and spending, but also with regard to protecting lives and livelihoods,” he said.

The Commissioner urged Virgin Islanders to keep their guards up throughout the holiday weekend, especially given the infectious nature of the COVID-19 omicron variant.

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RUGBY STARS JAM HASKELL AND MIKE TINDALL TO TACKLE LIFE ON THE ROAD WITH DEBUT TOUR FOR HIT PODCAST

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ngland rugby heroes James Haskell and Mike Tindall are taking to the road with their podcast – The Good, The Bad And The Rugby.

The live tour is the first ever outing for the hit podcast which, since launching in summer 2020, has grown to become the UK’s top sporting podcast, with more than 3million listeners and 20million-plus viewers online.

Joining James and Mike will be their podcast co-host former Sky Sports’ rugby presenter Alex Payne.

The trio will take to the stage to recreate the trademark banter they have on air, as The Good (Alex), The Bad (James) And The Rugby (Mike), share tales from on and off the pitch for what promises to be a night filled with surprises and laughter.

Announcing the tour, Mike said: “Since launching the podcast, we’ve become even closer, through the stories we’ve shared and the stories our guests have shared.

"Now we can’t wait to get on the road, with more tales from our rugby lives, and to meet our listeners – and maybe hear a few stories from them.”

James added: “We have so much fun creating each episode of The Good, The Bad And The Rugby, getting stuck into a whole range of topics for 90 minutes.

Mike and I have enjoyed touring life with England – and now we’ve got our own tour… It’s going to be great!”

And Alex said: “It’s a pleasure to bring James and Mike to the

table each week, when we sit and put the world to rights – and what better way to celebrate that, than by taking it out on tour?”

The Good, The Bad And The Rugby – LIVE promises to recreate the magic of the podcast’s weekly episodes, which feature rugby chat as well as wider sporting and pop-culture talking points.

Ben Hatton, Director of Theatre Touring for promoters Cuffe and Taylor, said: “The Good, The Bad And The Rugby podcast was a must-listen hit for sports fans in 2020, and with season two currently making a similar impact, we are excited to launch this tour which will take James, Mike and Alex out on the road with their fans across the country.”

HOW DID THE PODCAST ORIGINALLY COME ABOUT – AND WHY YOU, MIKE AND ALEX?

J: I knew Mike from our England days, and we both knew Alex through his work with Sky and we came together to work on JOE Media’s House of Rugby podcast. Our chemistry just worked really well, so we took it from there for the new podcast.

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT ON THE PODCAST?

J: All the live shows have been pretty special. Interacting with the audience while also chatting to our guests is a great thing to do. We’ve got well over 10million downloads, we have

an average listener time of an hour and 20 minutes – which is pretty much unheard of, so we’re clearly getting it right.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE RUGBY – AND HOW WILL IT TRANSLATE TO THE LIVE SHOW?

M: The best thing about the pod and what we enjoy most is that we never know where it will go.

The live shows are often the best ones, and that’s what we hope will translate into the tour– getting sneaky guests in and the unpredictability will be great.

Of course, Hask’ has been on his own stand-up tour so I’m expecting him to bring a lot to the table. Hopefully we’ll never do the same show twice!

WHO WILL BE THE MOST ENTERTAINING / SHOCKING / REVEALING ON THE TOUR?

M: Probably James for all of those! But let’s think strategically… I think ‘shocking’ will be Alex, in a more ‘surprising’ sense as we saw a different side to the smooth professional, groomed Alex when we went to Japan so we could get a repeat performance.

‘Revealing’ will be James, he’s always one for oversharing, and not always the things you want to hear either. And that leaves me for ‘entertaining’; that works.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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new series of free creative sessions created by and for young people was launched at Birmingham Hippodrome, with the first sessions having already taken place.

The Young Community Drop In Sessions have been developed

by Birmingham Hippodrome’s Young Advocates. The Young Advocates programme launched in January 2021 with a group of young people aged 14-22 who are working with the Hippodrome to shape the future of the venue’s participation work for young people.

The sessions include a range of creative drop-in workshops including Writing, Spoken Word and Performance with Amerah Saleh, a Zine making workshop with Louisa Robbin, Acting and Improvising with Corey Weekes, Street and Hip-Hop Dance with Steady from Flawless, Gaming for Wellbeing with Mikayla Sinead and Open Mic sessions.

Sophia Griffin, Head of Community & Talent Development at Birmingham Hippodrome said: “Our Young Advocates have worked hard to develop thoughtful sessions that offer a great range of creative outlets for young people,

MES

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Birmingham Hippodrome Launch Free Creative Sessions For Young People

alongside spaces to relax and feel safe.

The Young Community Drop In Sessions will give young people the opportunity to try something new, or join something they already love with new people. The sessions are open to people of all levels and abilities and our Young Advocates are available to support anyone who would like a buddy

0121 339 5885

on the day, or a chat in advance to find out more about the sessions.”

The first Young Community Drop In Sessions takes place every last Wednesday of the month from 5.30pm – 7.30pm, starting from Wednesday 30 March. All sessions are free and suitable for ages 14 plus, with no need to prebook, simply turn up on the day.

Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

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three years of Shifting The Dial Culminates In day of activities at the REP

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he Shifting the Dial Partnership will be taking over Birmingham Rep with a day of activity to mark the culmination of three years of discussion, workshop, performance and action to support young Black men's mental health resilience and address inequalities On 25 Mar, Fix It: The Celebration will take place in spaces across The Rep with a host of events that look back on the Shifting the Dial project, reviewing the impact the project has made to the young men who have been part of the last three years and celebrating the end of the Lottery funded project in its current form.

Samina Beckford, Project Producer for Shifting the Dial said: “Over the course of the past three years, we have been able to lead the way in addressing some of the key issues that are affecting, and truly matter, to young Black men in Birmingham and the West Midlands.

"This special event will celebrate the launch of the Centre for Mental Healths evaluation report of Shifting the Dial and its impact.

“This three-year long project may be reaching its end, but it is certainly not the end for this

kind of systems change work. It is also not the end for The Rep’s work in this field as projects such as Lightpost Theatre Company go from strength to strength.

"We know that the multi-agency approach to shifting the dial for young Black men works and has pathed the way for more targeted work of this kind.”

The day will feature keynote speakers from the likes of First Class Foundation, Birmingham Rep, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, talking through their experiences with the project and beyond.

A number of panel discussions will also feature the young Black men who have benefitted from the project, discussing how their lives have been impacted by Shifting the Dial and its output.

Lightpost Theatre Company will also collaborate with South Africa’s award-winning Isango Ensemble with performances at The Rep from Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 May. Colliding the ensemble approaches of the two companies, this unique production invites intergenerational AfricanCaribbean participants from Birmingham and the West Midlands to explore Isango’s Ubuntu theatre making: multilingual, musical, human, spectacular.

3rd Edition ‘Reunion’ To Bring All Together For Nothing But The Music

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ll minds are firmly fixed on Bank Holiday as the Powerhouse Reunion Party celebrates sets the holiday season off in style.

The Players Bar, on Birmingham’s prominent Broad Street, plays host for the return of some of the greatest Jazz, Funk, Broken Beats, Deep House, Soulful Rhythm, and Classic Disco vibes for young and old to gather as one and pay homage to a mindset, that was – and still is – ‘All About the Music!’

Sunday April 17 will see Colin Curtis, Kenny B, Chris Reid, Bruce Q, Georgie B Groove Association, Em Cee, Kim Tavare, Andy Ward, Sean McCabe, Neil Pinnock, Lord Byron and Robbie J packing a special night, full of special music – for very special music lovers.

To mark the 3rd in a – so far – trilogy of ‘Powerhouse All-Dayer

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Reunions’, this one promises to see the club’s three rooms packed to the rafters with hard core music lovers “Chumping at the Bits” – just as they did before.

Tony ‘Frenchie’ Quaile, who got the ‘Reunion’ ball rolling, with the first edition – in 2019 – this is further indication that the need, and want, of all true music lovers is a true reflection of why this Bank Holiday’s already muchtalked-about set is being eagerly waited for.

“The first Powerhouse Reunion was all about progression and opening doors for new people.

And it was great to give people what they always wanted.

“As for the second ‘Reunion’; well – it was Christmas and the cry for more was just too overwhelming to ignore”.

With ‘Episode 3’ days away, then – as it ever was – will be “All about the Music!”

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ENTERTAINMENT

Bring The Party To Birmingham FORMED IN 2006, their unique take on dub music and their prolific output has seen them constantly tour for nearly 14 years across the UK and Europe, turning them into festival favourites, regularly playing to crowds of 10k+.

With 7 studio albums to date, 2021 saw the release of their Down to Earth LP including their hit Honey with Hollie Cook which received huge support at BBC 6 Music They are held up as stalwarts of the UK dub/ ska/reggae music scene, working with Brad Ellis (Nextmen), Fat Freddy's Drop, Prince Fatty, Hollie Cook, Lady Chann, Horseman, Joe Dukie, Shapeshifter, Mongos Hifi and are consistently championed by David Rodigan and most of his contemporaries at Radio 1.

Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra showcases the best of UK music at Expo 2020 Dubai National Day

By Delroy Constantine-Simms

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and Sonia Dixon

opular UK songs were given the symphonic treatment at Expo 2020 Dubai when the iconic Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra took to the Jubilee Stage.

Led by conductor Matthew Freeman, the 78 musicians and singers worked their way through hits by artists such as the Beatles, Adele, Sam Smith, The Verve and Coldplay – the last of whom will themselves be playing at Expo 2020 Dubai on 15 February.

The second half of the show was dedicated to iconic band Queen, opening with We Will Rock You, and going on to reimagine favourites from Under Pressure to Another Ones Bites the Dust, in a perfect end to the UK’s Expo 2020 Dubai National Day.

Florence + the Machine drops surprise new track ‘King’ A MEDITATION ON womanhood, family, femininity and the subverting of expectations that makes a personal manifesto in transcending gender-defined roles into a cast-iron, crowdsearing festival-uniting call to arms in which she declares: “I am no mother, I am no bride - I am king”.

Being a woman artist, and one who performs provides its own conflict as to how to thrive and continue along the same path that male artists whose stars keep ascending, whose path to success is unimpeded by biology.

In her mid-30s, these are

the contradictions Florence is grappling with.

“As an artist, I never actually thought about my gender that much. I just got on with it. I was as good as the men and I just went out there and matched them every time.

"But now, thinking about being a woman in my 30s and the future… I suddenly feel this tearing of my identity and my desires.

"That to be a performer, but also to want a family might not be as simple for me as it is for my male counterparts.

I had modelled myself almost exclusively on male performers, and for the first

time I felt a wall come down between me and my idols as I have to make decisions they did not.”

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Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS Whispers Auction Boosts Funds For Rolls-Royce's House Charity ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars has boosted its fundraising efforts on behalf of its House Charity for this year through a private auction held through Whispers, the marque's exclusive private-members club, between 20th - 23rd December.

Participants used the Whispers app to place sealed bids for an original painting by emerging contemporary British artist Laurence M White, commissioned for the opening of Rolls-Royce's flagship London premises on Berkeley Street, Mayfair, in September 2021.

The painting, in acrylic on canvas, shows a dynamic front view of Cullinan, the marque’s superluxury SUV. White, who is self-taught, has quickly gained an international reputation for his vibrant portraits of successful, influential people, including entrepreneurs, artists, sports stars and entertainers, who help shape the world we see today.

Long standing patron and good friend of the brand, Graham Dacre, CBE, purchased the artwork.

A cheque for £10,000 – the winning bid – was subsequently presented to Chestnut Tree House, which provides specialist palliative care and support for around 300 children aged 0-19 with life-shortening conditions and their families at its hospice in Arundel, just a short distance from the Home of Rolls-Royce, and in their own homes.

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A TRIO OF AWARDS FOR THE CONTINENTAL GT

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entley’s sectordefining Continental GT grand tourer has started 2022 by attaining three significant awards, including “Car of the Year” and “Best Car” in three major markets.

Robb Report has awarded the Continental GT “Car of the Year”, for the third time since the introduction of the car in the USA

in 2004.

The judging panel was made up of 178 readers as well as Robb Report's automotive editorial staff who evaluate the competing cars in five categories - looks, performance, luxury and comfort, utility, and intangible tiebreakers such as “wow-factor” and collectability.

At the conclusion of the twopart test, held in Napa, California

and Boca Raton, Florida, the Bentley Continental GT Speed topped the field of ten vehicles to win Car of the Year.

Robb Report judges praise the GT Speed on its high level of performance and luxury, claiming it as “a quantum leap from the original” identifying that: “The four-wheel steering is what made all the difference in the world,” and “This car sparks joy at every

turn and every press of the gas pedal.”

In the United Kingdom, the Continental GT V8 was praised

by WhatCar? and was bestowed Best High-End Coupé at the Car of the Year Awards 2022.

Summarised by WhatCar?, “the Continental GT’s combination of pace, pampering and presence simply can’t be matched. Could there be a more decadent way to

get around - we seriously doubt it.”

In Germany, the Continental GT was crowned with the luxury class category in Auto Motor und Sport’s long standing ‘Best Cars’ awards. Over 100,000 readers voted over 12 different categories and across a total of 386 models to decide the final outcome.

Great Cars And Leading Specialists Confirmed For Salon Privé London

SALON PRIVÉ LONDON is set to make its debut from 2123 April 2022 at Royal Hospital Chelsea, and the brand-new fixture promises to be one of the UK’s most exclusive motoring garden parties.

At the heart of the event is the unique Concours de Vente, a groundbreaking concept that will feature 60 of the finest automotive classics – all of which will be for sale.

The cars will be entered by the most respected specialist dealers from across the UK and continental Europe, with Salon Privé London offering a rare opportunity for them to showcase a selection of their most significant consignments in one place.

The first 10 dealers to be

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confirmed are Fiskens, Classic Motor Hub, Howard Wise Cars, Furlonger Specialist Cars, Dylan Miles, RS Williams, Graeme Hunt, Richards of England, Vintage Bentley and Hofmann’s.

Howard Wise is set to showcase a 1972 Dino 246 GT in the Concours de Vente.

This exceptional survivor has had only one owner from new, is all matching-numbers, and retains its original seats, carpets, ‘mouse-hair’ dashboard, headlining, door cards, tool kit, and Radiomobile 8-Track.

It’s presented in the rare combination of Bianco with black seats and red carpets, and has recently received a light, sympathetic restoration.

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ASTON MARTIN COMMITMENT CELEBRATES NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK 2022

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ston Martin has reiterated its commitment to supporting and developing the next generation of British talent and skills with the company today launching a drive to recruit over 40 early career positions at its Gaydon and St Athan sites.

Announced during National Apprenticeship Week 2022, the ultra-luxury British manufacturer is inviting applications from high calibre individuals ready to rise to the challenge of working for one of the world’s most desirable brands.

The company is offering opportunities to 18 apprentices, 20 graduates and 10 paid interns, in positions across the business.

Applications for apprentices and graduates are open from today until 28 February, with candidates undertaking various assessments before places

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are offered in early Summer 2022.

For the people who make the grade, early career placements at Aston Martin can set them on the fast track to success via the company’s employee development process. Applications for the internships will open in the Spring.

Tobias Moers, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “It is vital that we invest in the future of our business and the skills and people we will require to accelerate it.

"We are immensely proud of our apprenticeship and graduate schemes and are delighted to be recruiting the next generation of Aston Martin employees.

"It is an exciting time to join Aston Martin as we embark on our journey to be the world’s most desirable, ultraluxury British brand and I look forward to working with the successful applicants.”

0121 339 5885

MOTORS

Fantastic Result at MCN London Motorcycle Show SILVERSTONE Auctions are celebrating a new World Record after a fantastic sale at the Carol Nash MCN Motorcycle Show London After a successful 2021, particularly in their final sale of the year at the NEC Classic Car Show, Silverstone Auctions have had a strong start to 2022.

120 Motorcycles went under the hammer at the auction on 12th February making a total £767,000 in sales and a 75% sales rate. Amongst the classic Motorcycles on offer were some rare and historically significant machines including a 1927 Triumph Works TT Racing Motorcycle 489cc, believed to be one of 6 factory racers entered by Triumph in the Isle of Man TT races in 1927, which sold for £41,625, and a superbly presented 1936 Brough Superior SS80 982cc which sold for £61,875.

A World Record was obtained in the sale of a 1978 Honda CB400F 400cc, which fetched the highest price ever for one of these motorcycles at auction. The stunning motorcycle, superbly presented in gleaming Parakeet Yellow was purchased in 1978 as a spare-parts donor bike when Honda announced the end of the 400/4 but remained 100% complete, in ‘as new’ condition and showing just one mile on the clock.

Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

ENTERTAINMENT

VIRAL BUSKING SENSATION AND TIK TOK STAR SHARES HER OFFICIAL DEBUT SINGLE BUSKING HER way to superstardom, 23-year-old Liv Harland enjoyed a huge and unconventional breakthrough year in 2021.

Her busking performances have shown her ability to create emotionally engaging memorable IRL moments with people from all walks of life.

Remarkably, several of those moments have gone viral on a huge scale, resulting in over 1.5 million followers and 28 million likes on TikTok alone.

Her livestreams often attract an audience big enough to fill London’s O2, and she achieved three of TikTok’s Top 10 live moments of 2021 - making her the only female artist on the list.

She is making a similar impact at YouTube, most notably with a video of her halting a song to help a homeless man.

That moment of kindness resulted in Liv joining the good karma club, as the clip was greeted by a phenomenal public reaction and is now approaching 45 million views.

Now Liv Harland steps from the retail centre to the radio waves as she shares her official debut single ‘Letters’, which is out now via frtyfve

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LONG AWAITED UK TOUR O FOR MULTI-PLATINUM BAND BARENAKED LADIES Barenaked Ladies announce long awaited UK tour

ver the course of 33 years, the beloved quartet has sold 15 million records worldwide and built up an arsenal of hits such as 'If I Had $1,000,000', 'One Week', 'Pinch Me', and The Big Bang Theory Theme.

Widely acknowledged as one of the best live acts on the planet, BNL has hosted a cruise, had its own ice cream flavour, amassed eight JUNO Awards, and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2018.

As Ed Robertson, Jim Creeggan, Tyler Stewart and Kevin Hearn put it on ‘Good Life,’ "Wasn't easy but it turned out alright/Wouldn't trade it for another...You don't wanna miss this mutha."

In August 2021, the band released their 16th studio album Detour de Force with 14 newly minted tracks to great reviews and also teamed up with the legendary Tim Burgess for an esteemed Listening Party for the album for fans both old and new.

Detour de Force is BNL’s most broad-reaching and diverse album to date -- fusing the distinct writing voices of Robertson, Hearn, and Creeggan into a cohesive work.

Tyler Stewart adds: "This is some of our strongest material in 30 years, easily. I think it stands up there with our best albums. It hangs with ‘Gordon,’ or it hangs with ‘Maroon.’”

BNL wasn't dormant as the world shut down but the pause brought a fresh perspective to where the band wanted Detour de Force to go.

"The pandemic really affected the album in an interesting way."

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Jamaica Detective Series ‘Get Millie Black’ lands series order at HBO and UK’s Channel 4

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he Man Booker Prize-winning author behind ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings’, has landed a series order from HBO and the UK’s Channel 4 for ‘Get Millie Black’, a crime drama set in Jamaica.

The WarnerMedia-owned premium network and the British public broadcaster are co-producing the six-part series.

‘Get Millie Black’ marks the first television series from Marlon James, who wrote Black Leopard, Red Wolf and The Book of Night Women.

He will

write and exec-produce, with filming starting in the UK and Jamaica this year.

“My mother was one of the first policewomen in Jamaica to make detective,” Jamaicaborn James said. “Storytelling has always struck me first and foremost as a mystery to be solved—which I’m sure I got from her.”

Winning the Man Booker Prize in 2015, for ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings’, a novel which centres on an attempt to assassinate Bob Marley, Marlon was the first Jamaican to win the Prize.

After studying English at the

University of the West Indies, he worked in advertising as a copywriter.

His first novel was rejected 78 times, and he thought he had destroyed every copy of it, until he met novelist Kaylie Jones at a writing workshop and she insisted on seeing it.

She showed it to her publisher and his career was launched.

The book, John Crow's Devil, was published in 2005.

His fourth novel, ‘Black Leopard, Red Wolf’, the first of a fantasy trilogy, was published in 2019.

Maya Lane shares the official video for her debut single ‘Still The Same’ EQUALLY AS influenced by inspirational current artists such as Kacey Musgraves and HAIM as she is by the timeless sounds of Fleetwood Mac and Joni Mitchell, 18-year-old newcomer Maya Lane possesses a talent for songwriting that’s rarely heard from such a young artist.

Maya shares the official video for her debut single ‘Still The Same’ as she builds towards the release of her debut EP later this year.

Effortlessly merging folky harmonies with a sharp pop focus; ‘Still The Same’ is a big introduction from the younger Londoner.

Her exquisite vocal is equal parts tender, nostalgic, vulnerable and yet strikingly confident, as her storytelling lyrics narrate the heartbreak of seeing a relationship unexpectedly unravel.

THEATRE TOURS RETURN AT THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE THEATRE IN STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

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he Royal Shakespeare Company’s popular Theatre Tours in Stratford-upon-Avon will resume from Saturday 30 April with a new 1-hour guided tour which, when possible, will include first-time public access to the Company’s newly developed Costume Workshop, the largest in-house costumemaking department of any British theatre.

Led by the RSC’s experienced team of tour guides, the newly launched Theatre Tour will invite audiences to explore the public and backstage areas of the building, and find out more about the unique history of the RSC and its buildings in Stratford. The

guides will also bring the tours to life with new and engaging stories about one of the most famous theatre companies in the world.

The RSC’s iconic Tower will also reopen from Tuesday 15 March. Standing 36 metres tall, and with views across Warwickshire, entrance to the Tower will be free, and prebooking is not required. It will be open daily, closing at 4pm.

Kevin Wright, RSC Head of Commercial Development, said: “We are delighted to be offering public theatre tours again, after a hiatus of over two years. We have taken this time to refresh the tours, so that, when possible, they will include a visit to our

new Costume Workshop, giving people a glimpse into the work of the largest in-house costumemaking department of any British theatre.

“The guides will also have lots of new stories to tell about the RSC’s rich history, celebrating the diversity of our productions and the people who have worked here. We are also very pleased, once again, to offer everyone the chance to visit the top of our Tower with its spectacular views.”

Theatre tours will run daily, normally with four tours a day, apart from on matinee days when there will be two, and on Sundays when there will be three.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

ENTERTAINMENT

George Cosby Shares His New Single ‘Lonely Heartbeats’ GEORGE COSBY poetically explores the varied fortunes of romance through a widescreen lens. Applying a modern pop elegance to this everlasting emotion enamoured an expanding fanbase with his debut EP ‘We Stand Alone’.

Its title track was B-listed at Radio 2, while further airplay for the project came from BBC Introducing, Jo Whiley at Radio 2 and Laura Whitmore at Radio 5. Now George celebrates Valentine’s Day by sharing ‘Lonely Heartbeats’, his first single of 2022.

Extending his evocative examination of relationships with a heartrending arrangement, the velvet baritone of his voice narrates a ‘will they?/won’t they?’ story. It’s a classically engaging plot for a romcom, but it’s also an experience that’s indelibly a part of so many of our lives - and one that leads to a rush of excitement and anticipation, but also fear and anxiety.

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DJ Black Coffee gives UAE party people a musical high at Expo 2020 Dubai

By Delroy Constantine-Simms sensational set that transported

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and Sonia Dixon

rammy-nominated South African DJ, producer and songwriter Black Coffee ensured the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) Arena was the place to be with a

party-goers to Ibiza.

Black Coffee – real name Nkosinathi Innocent Sizwe Maphumulo – followed opening sets by Frederick Stone and Paul Svenson with a constant backbeat of synths and drums to compel the crowd to carry on dancing through until morning light.

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The artist, from South Africa, has become the country’s most globally celebrated electronic musician, playing to capacity crowds at enormous stadiums, DJing everywhere from underground institutions such as Panorama Bar in Berlin to gigantic festivals l i k e U l t r a i n

Miami, and working with R&B megastars Drake and Alicia Keys.

Showcasing his trademark tough deep-house style, the dynamic DJ played songs from his extensive back catalogue, with fans going wild for his latest tunes, which included Reflections – a Black Coffee

0208-865-1922

remix of a song by Themba, featuring Thoko. With more than three million followers on Instagram and more than 1.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with a career that has spanned more than two decades, Black Coffee is one of Africa’s best-known DJs.

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Eddie Fewtrell

he owner of a string of iconic nightclubs, his death marks the end of an era for the neon-lit entertainment business in Birmingham.

One of eight brothers, he wasn’t just a major figure in the nightclub scene of the 1960s and 1970s. He was the king of the nightlife scene, running places like the Bermuda, Cedar, Boogies, Abigails, and Edwards No7.

A former boxer and club

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land legend - which was said that he kicked the Krays out of Birmingham - the larger than life character’s death marks the end of an era for the neon-lit entertainment business in the city.

Spending his retirement at the Hertfordshire farm, stories about his family are in a book, ‘The Accidental Gangster’, by his sonin-law David Keough.

He died age 90.

Des Drummond

he former rugby league star became a national celebrity when finishing second in the 1983 BBC Superstars final.

Born in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, at 5ft 7in and weighing 12 stones, he was capped 29 times for England and Great Britain, but was omitted from the 1988 Lions tour after confronting a spectator who racially abused him during a match. Making his international debut in 1980, he scored 9 tries.

He helped Leigh win the

Lancashire Cup final in 1981, before a brief spell in Australia with Western Suburbs was followed by Warrington in 1987 - scoring 69 in 182 appearances.

He then played for Bramley, Workington, Chorley, Prescot and Barrow, before retiring aged 39.

He became a publican in Manchester and was later involved in community work in Bolton - and also coached the town’s amateur club.

Survived by several children, he was 61.

Bamber Gascoigne CBE FRSL

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he historian and author was the also original presenter of TV quiz show University Challenge - from 1962 to 1987. He also presented TV documentaries and wrote several books.

Born in London, he was educated at Sunningdale School and Eton College before studying at Magdalane College, Cambridge, and then Yale University. He was elected, in

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Bappi Lahiri

alled the ‘King of Bollywood disco’, the Indian music composer was known for his groovy disco tunes and eye-catching fashion style.

Having recovered from Covid-19 last year, he was in hospital for the past month before passing.

His funky, foot-stomping music had Indians fall in love with disco and had an entire country dancing to his tunes. Politicians, cricketers and Bollywood stars were great fans of his music.

Fondly known as "Bappi Da",

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1976, as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature. He was a trustee of the National Gallery, a trustee of the Tate Gallery, a member of the council of the National Trust, and a member of the board of directors of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. He was also a patron of the Museum of Richmond.

Married to wife Christina, he warded the CBE in 2018; he died after a short illness. He was 87.

he is credited for getting the disco ball spinning in India, with his music from the movie ‘Disco Dancer’ introducing a new form of freeform dancing in Bollywood which also turned actors like Mithun Chakraborty into icons.

He composed songs for several other hit Bollywood films such as Himmatwala, Sharaabi, and Satyamev Jayate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "His demise leaves a big void in the world of Indian music.

He was 69.

Jack Jeffery

urt while scoring a try during a match against Berkswell and Balsall, the Evesham RFC player was taken to hospital after being injured in the Seniors League game.

Serving his club and teammates with great distinction, he provided great satisfaction to the supporters in knowing exactly where the try line was.

A committed and loyal

‘clubman’, he was taken to Coventry’s Walsgrave Hospital, but sadly passed away from his injuries hours later. Club chair Dave Summerfield said that the players were reeling, saying it was such a terrible shock.

His father, Glen, described him as the "most kind hearted, generous and beautiful son who enriched the lives of everyone who was lucky to know and have met him". He was 27.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 33

OBITUARIES

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Lata Mangeshkar

ndia’s leading cultural icon and national treasure, as one of the greatest of her/all time, the classically-trained star, she rose to fame, as a "playback singer", by providing the singing voice to Bollywood's lip-synching movie stars. As the country's most in-demand singer she was described as the "Nightingale of Bollywood".

Born in Indore, and the eldest

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Sally Kellerman

orn in Long Beach, California, in a career spanned over 60 years, her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in the film version of smash TV comedy series M*A*S*H in 1970, after making a number of televisionseries appearances - earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role.

She also appeared in films such

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Davis, she was a model, working with designers and appearing in magazines like Seventeen and Glamour.

Described as the 'Godmother of Funk', she was close friendly with fashion designer Stephen Burrows, plus musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Hugh Masekela and Sly Stone, whilst also working as a model in ‘Seventeen’, ‘Ebony’ and ‘Glamour.’ She would then influence stars including Prince and Madonna. She was 77.

Gary Brooker MBE

he London-born singer, songwriter, pianist and founder and lead singer of Procol Harum was a major figure in the 1960s British R&B scene.

Founded of the band in 1966, ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ is the worldwide hit for which they are best known.

He also played in bands alongside the likes of Eric Clapton and George Harrison, and was

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as Last of the Red Hot Lovers and in 1986, Back to School.

Further TV appearances included; The Twilight Zone, Star Trek and 90210. She also voiced Miss Finch in Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird. In 2013, she released her memoir Read My Lips: Stories of a Hollywood Life.

Survived by two daughters and a son, she was 84.

Betty Davis

deep funk and soul singer, who influenced and pioneered music, song writing and fashion during her iconic time – and since, she was one of the first Black women to get recognition for writing, arranging and producing her own albums.

Born in North Carolina, in the U.S., she was well known for her controversially sexual lyrics and performance style. As the second wife of jazz legend Miles

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of five children, the passionate cricket fan appreciated the correctness of Sunil Gavaskar’s straight drive technique, the elegance involved in Gundappa Viswanath’s square cut and Sachin Tendulkar’s unique allround ability. She also rubbed shoulders with music legends like The Beatle and had a love for cars and the slot machines of Vegas.

She was 92.

also a member of Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings for several years.

In 1996, he appeared in the Alan Parker film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Evita starring Madonna.

In 2003, he was appointed an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of his charitable services. He died after a long battle with cancer age 76.

Mark Lanegan

orn in Washington State, in the U.S., he began his musical career as frontman of psychedelic band, Screaming Trees, and also was a member of Queens of the Stone Age and The Gutter Twins.

Also an author and poet, he released twelve solo studio albums and three collaboration albums with Isobel Campbell, and two with Duke Garwood. He also collaborated with Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain, Layne Staley of Alice in Chains, and Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, in the band

0121 339 5885

Mad Season.

Forming alternative rock group The Gutter Twins with Greg Dulli of The Afghan Whigs, he released three critically albums of duets with Isobel Campbell of Belle and Sebastian and contributed to releases by Moby, Bomb the Bass, Soulsavers, The Twilight Singers, Manic Street Preachers, among others.

Married twice, he died at his home in Killarney, in Ireland. No cause of death was announced.

He was 57.

Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Actor, Jordan Nash, Kicks Off Children's Mental Health Awareness Week TO LAUNCH Children's Mental Health Week, a discussion between 14 year actor Jordan Nash and the students of Springwell School, in Hounslow, London, was organized focusing on the critical importance of mental health.

Speaking on his personal experience battling and overcoming mental health issues, Jordan gave the Year 6 students insight, advice and information on how they can manage their mental health.

The North London award winning actor has starred in the lead role of Come Away with Angelina Jolie, David Oyelowo and Michael Caine, among others.

He said: "So five years ago I suddenly found myself trying to dig myself out of a black hole.

“Everything may have seemed perfect to those looking at my life from the outside, but behind closed doors, mentally I was a hot mess. A friend was going through a similar problem recently and that's when I realised this is more common than people think.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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ACORNS CHILDREN’S HOSPICE RECEIVES FUNDING BOOST A

corns Children’s Hospice, which provides lifeline care to children and families across the West Midlands, has received a funding boost from one of the country’s leading housebuilders.

Persimmon Homes has donated £1,000 to the charity through its Community Champions scheme, an initiative that each month invites applications from charities and good causes. The donation will help Acorns, which provides specialist palliative care for life limited and life threatened children and young people, fund a Family Team Worker for a year.

Rachel Learmonth, Partnership Manager at Acorns, said: “We are extremely grateful to Persimmon Homes for this generous donation, which will directly benefit the children and families at Acorns by supporting the delivery of our specialist Family Services Team. This incredible donation of £1,000 will fund a Family Team Worker for a family for a whole year, providing vital emotional and psychosocial support for a family when they need it most.”

l Acorns Children’s Hospice - Jack and mum Catherine Acorns have continued to provide its children’s hospice care every single day of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In the past year, Acorns has cared for over 700 children and young people and almost 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

Sales Director at Persimmon Homes Central, Sarah Preston,

said: “We are delighted to be able to support Acorns Children’s Hospice Trust and the tremendous work that they do there.”

Founded in 1972, Persimmon Homes is one of the UK’s leading housebuilders. With headquarters in York, the Group operates from 31 regional offices throughout the UK, trading under the brand

names of Persimmon Homes, Charles Church and Westbury Partnerships, building quality homes across England, Wales and Scotland.

The company directly employs more than 5,000 people and supports around 86,000 jobs in the construction sector.

Berkshire Children’s Disability Charity Receives £1,000 Donation From Homebuilder DAVID WILSON Homes Southern has given its support to PALS (Partners For Active Leisure Scheme) West Berkshire with a £1,000 donation towards the charity which provides support for children and young people with physical disabilities.

In the West Berkshire area, PALS currently works with 40 families and provides parents with some wonderful options for their children to feel happy and part of a wider movement.

In reaching out to its local communities, the leading developer made the grand gesture as part of its Community Fund scheme to help the charity continue to meet the needs of its members and their families.

Helen Randall, Manager at PALS (West Berkshire), said: “We’re surprised but thrilled to have received the donation.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to David Wilson Homes for choosing to support us through its Community Fund scheme. We’re hugely appreciative.

“We remain heavily reliant on voluntary donations from companies, trusts and foundations and individuals donating and fundraising for us."

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 35

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

1 In 3 Employers Have Not Talked To Their Staff About Their Mental Health Over The Past Year - Acas

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l Sherril Donaldson – NU:GEN CARE CIC

Voice For Our Black Elders

Who Has The Power In A Will?

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his subject has been a topic for my column before and I suspect it will be again. The subject for consideration is, “how do we ensure our assets are managed once we are no longer able to do it ourselves”.

As an organisation, we have been running sessions, ‘Laugh & Chat’, for several months now and even though the purpose is to meet friends to have a laugh and a chat, there have been some very serious conversations as well.

At one of our recent sessions the subject of Wills and Power of Attorney was brought up and the following story was told. “…Mother and Father have passed away and there was a Will in place to distribute their assets. In the Will the eldest brother was named as the Executor of the Will and he is also a beneficiary.

There are six brothers and sisters named as beneficiaries and they have children and grandchildren.

The Will should have been administered following the death of their Father, ten years ago, but, that has not happened and there is now the complication that one of the siblings has also passed away.”

Now, that has to be the nightmare that any family dreads as it appears the family of the deceased sibling will no longer benefit from the original Will.

As we sat and listened to the details of what was happening within the family, there were gasps of disbelief and lots of ‘barrack room barrister’ opinions on what should or should not be happening.

There was little laughter during that session, but, what was very clear from the conversation was the numerous members of our community with little or no knowledge of why Wills are critical and why the Executor of the Will is so

ew research by Acas has found that over a third (35%) of British employers have not spoken to their staff about their mental health and wellbeing over the past year during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Acas commissioned YouGov to ask businesses in Britain about whether they had personally talked to their staff about their mental health in the last 12 months during the pandemic.

The poll found that: • Nearly three out of five (59%) had spoken to staff; • Over a third (35%) had not talked to staff; • 3% did not know or could not remember; and • 3% preferred not to say.

The publication of the results

important and powerful.

Therefore, it’s worth detailing here: • An executor is legally responsible for carrying out the instructions in the person’s will and handling their estate (their money, property and possessions).

• Who can be an executor?

You can act as an executor even if you’re going to inherit something from the will. In fact, an executor is often a spouse, child or other family member.

The person making the will can appoint up to four executors, so the responsibility is shared, but all decisions must then be made jointly.

A family member and a professional (such as a solicitor) might act as executors together.

Often, at least two executors are appointed, just in case one dies or is otherwise unable to carry out their duties.

Based on the story we heard I have concluded that having an independent person/ professional involved in the process would help to prevent such a horrible situation developing.

So, I urge you to explore the subject of Wills. I also urge you to review your Will on a regular basis, because your wishes may not charge, but the laws of the land changes on a regular basis.

We all need to make sure we prepare for the expected and unexpected to ensure the profits of our labour goes to the people we love as their rightful legacy.

Remember, 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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coincides with Time to Talk day, which aims to support people to have conversations about mental health.

Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said: “The pandemic has been a challenging period for everyone and it is great to see that most employers have chatted to their staff about their mental health and wellbeing.

“However, a third of employers have not spoken to their staff about their mental health over the past year.

Taking the time to talk openly about mental health is vitally important as it can avoid problems building up and lead to improved morale at work.

Acas advice for employers on managing mental health during COVID-19 includes: • Be approachable, available and encourage team members to talk to you if they’re having problems; • Keep in regular contact with your team to check how they are coping; • Respect confidentiality and be calm, patient, supportive and reassuring if a staff member wants to have a chat about their mental health.

Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

AZUZA STREET

Muslim Students In India Say Hijab Ban Forces Choice Between Religion And Education A DEVOUT Indian Muslim who considers wearing a hijab an expression of devotion to the Prophet Mohammad says a move by her college to expel hijab-wearing girls is an insult that will force her to choose between religion and education.

Student Ayesha Imthiaz, from southern Karnataka's Udupi district, where protests over the head covering ban began, said: "The humiliation of being asked to leave my classroom for wearing a head scarf by college officials has shaken my core belief.

"My religion has been questioned and insulted by a place which I had considered as a temple of education.”

Having been studying for five years at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial college in Udupi, she went on to say: “It is more like telling us you choose between your religion or education, that's a wrong thing."

“Several Muslim girls who protested the ban had received threatening calls and were forced to stay indoors.”

Udupi is a stronghold of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). College officials say students are allowed to wear the hijab on campus and only asked them to take it off inside the classroom.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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CHARITY CEO SHORTLISTED FOR BRITISH MUSLIM AWARDS T he Chief Executive of a leading mental health charity has been nominated for a prestigious business award.

Monica Shafaq of the Kaleidoscope Plus Group has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Corporate Achievement of the Year category at this year’s British Muslim Awards.

A total of 300 men, women and businesses have been shortlisted, which recognise the wide achievements of British people of Islamic faith, in fields including business, charity, law, and education.

The awards highlight the contribution to British society these people have made in the past 12 months, with the winners in each category being revealed at a ceremony on Thursday, February 24, at the British Muslim Heritage Centre in Manchester.

Mrs Shafaq said: “I am delighted to be shortlisted. It’s a real honour for both me and the Kaleidoscope Plus Group as it highlights the important work done to help people struggling with their mental health.

"It will be fantastic to be at the ceremony and be surrounded by incredible people who have all worked hard in their chosen

fields.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to whoever nominated me as it came as a huge surprise. I’d like to wish the best of luck to all my fellow finalists and am looking forward to an exciting night.”

Monica has been the CEO of the Kaleidoscope Plus Group since 2010. Under her leadership the charity rebranded, disaffiliating from Sandwell Mind, and has also been awarded a place on the ‘Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For’ every year since 2015.

Committed to equality and diversity and specifically promoting the role of women and Black and Minority Ethnic individuals in leadership roles, she has chaired the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisation’s national Black and Asian Leadership Special Interest Group and has also been involved in a national group addressing l Monica Shafaq of the Kaleidoscope Plus Group Governance in the Third Sector.

She currently sits on the boards mental health. one of the first women, and first woman of Birmingham County Football She is also a member of the Premier of colour, to the Professional Footballer’s Association, Citizen Housing and Kidderminster Harriers F.C. where she League’s Equality and Diversity Panel. Association Charity. has lead responsibility for equality and In February 2021 she was appointed as

Spurs Ask Fans To Move On From Using ‘Y-Word’ Following Review PREMIER LEAGUE side Tottenham Hotspur have said that it is time for supporters to "move on" from using the Y-word after conducting a review of the term among the club's fan-base.

The review, which began in 2019, received more than 23,000 responses. It found that there was a growing desire among fans to stop the use of the word, with 94% acknowledging it could be racist towards Jewish people.

A club statement said: "Now more than ever is the time to reassess and reconsider its ongoing use. We recognise how these members of our fan-base feel and we also believe it is time to move on from associating this term with our club."

Spurs said that it prides itself on being an inclusive and progressive club which strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone. It did, however, say that the use of the word didn’t always make this possible.

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The term was initially adopted

by Tottenham fans in the 1970s as a defence mechanism to own the term and deflect anti-Semitic abuse, with the club having a historical association with Jewish supporters.

In 2019 the World Jewish Congress and Board of Deputies of British Jews asked Spurs to act over the continued use of the word by their supporters, asking them to take a stand.

The subsequent consultation showed that an increased number of supporters were uncomfortable with its use at matches and would like to stop using the word altogether.

The club added: "We are living in times of heightened awareness of cultural appropriation and sensitivities. It is therefore crucial to the values of our club and our fans that we are even more mindful of the controversial nature of this term."

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 37

OVERSEAS NEWS Luxury Lodges Increases Rental Capacity To Meet Staycation Demand

SKN PM Calling For Greater Commitment To Global Climate Agreements

By Delroy Constantine-Simms and Dennis Edman SAINT KITTS & Nevis Prime Minister, Timothy Harris, says he remains cautiously optimistic on climate progress, while urging the world’s bigger players to follow through on their sustainability commitments.

He also welcomed ‘citizens of the world’ to join Saint Kitts & Nevis’ long-standing Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, which has already attracted thousands of participants from the UAE and wider Middle East.

“If people exhibit certain values of industry, pride, patriotism – all those values that keep us functioning – a country can be elevated,” PM Harris said. “When there is a clear vision which people buy into, you can achieve unthinkable heights of glory and acclaim.

“The extension of the period for realisation,” he went on to say, “must now be bolstered by strong action from those who are the biggest emitters of fossil fuels and all the other contaminants that have created distress not only within their own societies, but significant challenges for the progress of developing states such as those in the Caribbean.

With respect to the resent COP26, PM Harris said: “The bottom line is whether we can realistically expect – given a history of underperformance – the commitment.

Countries such as the USA come on board as significant partners and make commitments to assist others to slow the rate of global warming, but the question is, will this be realised?

JBM UNDERTAKING NEW DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN ST ANN

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new multimilliondollar commercial and industrial park project has been set in motion as Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited (JBM) the new development gets underway in the St Ann parish in the country.

Based in Lydford, the site was

chosen, by Minister of Transport and Mining Audley Shaw, and State Minister JC Hutchinson, with operations there set to take place very soon. The minister said that the proposed commercial and industrial parks will feature state-of-the art facilities designed to accommodate business process outsourcing, manufacturing,

Ker & Downey Africa Welcomes Cleanhub As Its New Legacy Partner KER & DOWNEY Africa has joined forces with CleanHub, an innovative company working with local communities in developing countries to free the planet and its oceans from plastic pollution.

The partnership forms part of the Ker & Downey Africa's Legacy Partner portfolio – a selection of vetted projects and organisations that contribute

to empowering communities, protecting wildlife, and creating a sustainable future for Africa and the world. It is estimated that over 400 million tonnes of plastic is produced each year.

Certain regions in South East Asia and the Pacific do not have the infrastructure in place to deal with these unprecedented levels of plastic – most of which is non-recyclable. In these areas, waste management

systems are either inadequate or don't exist at all, and local communities don't have the tools or financial support to deal with it sustainably.

As a result, a staggering 11 million tonnes of plastic finds its way into the oceans each year, 80% of which is non-recyclable.

Once in the water 90% of this non-recyclable waste sinks to the depths of the ocean where it can never be recovered.

retail shops, and small and large warehouses.

“I'm very pleased about this development,” Shaw said, “because it will create more jobs for the people in St Ann and adjoining areas,” “This is a really outstanding project and it is inspiring to see that although you're still called

the Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited, you're into other things; and that shows the need for creativity and diversification.”

“The aggregate material being produced here is of a high technological level,” the minister said, noting that limestone is being processed into sand for commercial use.

“Jamaica probably has the largest area of limestone deposits in the region, so, it is something that the government have to look at as one of the alternatives going forward. Limestone is definitely one of the areas that we have to promote, and do so more aggressively.”

Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited, which was incorporated in 1975, is a Government-owned entity with a business enterprise mandate. The company holds 51 per cent equity, on behalf of the Government, in the bauxite operations of its current partners, New Day Aluminium (Jamaica) Limited.

Luxurious holiday resort brand Luxury Lodges has increased its rental capacity of UK-wide destinations following a surge in the demand for staycations.

While the international holiday market has been volatile for the past two years, UK resorts have seen a huge boost with many booking up for much of 2022 already.

Luxury Lodges is one such company that is doing its best to satisfy the ever-growing demand for breaks closer to home and investing heavily in its holiday rental properties and amenities.

Luxury Lodges owns four exclusive hotel-quality resorts across the country including Dylan Coastal Resort in west Wales, Whitbarrow in the Lake District, and Burn Coastal Retreat and Clowance both in Cornwall - all of which have benefited from recent multimillion pound investment and improvements.

As part of its expansion plans, Luxury Lodges recently teamed up with leading managed holiday rental company Landal GreenParks to help oversee its portfolio. The new partnership will see Landal GreenParks showcase the resorts on its platforms and support the management of the rental side of the business opening up to a wider audience.

Luxury Lodges Managing Director Ross Grieve said: “Having invested millions into creating some of the finest resorts in the country we have taken the decision to expand our rental offering alongside our holiday home ownership scheme, with both markets experiencing a huge surge in popularity."

CleanHub incentivizes local communities in high-impact areas to set up non-recyclable plastic collection businesses and utilize their digital platform to hand over the collected plastic to certified treatment and recovery partners before it reaches the ocean.

Joel Tasche, founder of CleanHub, says: “We are trying to give all plastic enough value that it is collected and subsequently treated correctly.

That's the only way we can really see the world getting a grip on plastic pollution because, in the end, you won't throw away something valuable, right?”

For each trip booked with Ker & Downey Africa, guests can choose to donate $100 or more to CleanHub. This donation will see 100 pounds (45.3kgs) of plastic collected, sorted, and safely disposed of by CleanHub's global partners.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

Holiday and

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Travel CONTINUING SURGE IN BOOKINGS AS CUSTOMERS LOOK FOR MORE PERSONAL SERVICE

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ravel Counsellors reports that after the first week of February, bookings show no signs of slowing down, now at the same levels as 2019.

January saw the company’s biggest booking month post-COVID and second ever most successful month in its 27-year history, with new group bookings of over £71.2m, beating the previous two months combined for both leisure and corporate travel.

Furthermore, the business reported that 320 of its Travel Counsellor business owners celebrate their best ever sales month too.

This comes as a recent customer survey by the independent company revealed over a quarter of all customers said they were planning to spend more on their holidays in 2022.

This is reflected in the latest figures, which show overall spend per booking increased by 13% in January.

Kirsten Hughes, managing director of Travel Counsellors said: “We are now seeing a consistent recovery both in bookings and sales volumes for leisure and corporate travel.

"This is further reinforced by the growing demand from consumers for trusted travel advice and reassurance coming out of the pandemic, highlighted in the feedback from the survey.

“Additionally, customers are spending more, as many trade up their previous travel plans and look for premium end product with a premium service to match.” Over 20 percent of bookings are for travel in the next two months with Spain, UAE and USA being the most popular destinations.”

Spain is also the top selling destination for Easter travel despite more complex entry requirements, closely followed by the USA. There has also been strong demand for haul travel destinations such as the Indian Ocean, Middle East and the Caribbean with bookings being more than 50 percent higher than at the same time pre-pandemic.

Spring Ushers In First Wildlife Break For Grown-Ups From The Budock Vean Hotel Explore The New Daytona Beach Mural Trail FOR ART LOVERS, the Daytona Beach area offers museums and galleries that provide opportunities to see and experience a variety of artistic styles and cater to a broad range of artistic tastes.

Visitors to the area can take in outdoor artworks too — because in Daytona Beach and some of

the surrounding cities and towns, there are a number of beautiful murals that line the streets.

With 18 murals (and growing) sprinkled throughout the region along the Daytona Beach Mural Trail, chances are visitors won't have to venture far to take in one of these public displays of art.

IF YOU THINK rockpooling and wildlife spotting are for kids then think again….

The Budock Vean country house estate on Cornwall's Helford River has created its first expert-guided Spring Wildlife Break with grown-ups in mind from Sunday 1st to Friday 6th May this year.

On land, sea and river - by foot, boat and kayak – guests signed up as “Citizen Scientists” will be exploring and reporting back on the diverse flora and fauna of the Budock Vean's surrounding Helford Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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Sumptuous dinner, bed and breakfast and use of all golf and leisure facilities are interspersed with four days of trips, talks and activities for a small group of wildlife watchers – some fixed

(including an after-dark visit to the Cornwall Beaver Project) and some with a menu of activities to get involved with.

“We are surrounded by extraordinary natural phenomena

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– including the rare habitat known as the Atlantic temperate rainforest on the banks of the Helford - yet many of us have little idea what's right in front of our eyes or under our feet,” says the Budock Vean's owner Martin Barlow.

“Clearly there's a real interest in learning more about the creatures which share our amazing planet – and their battle for survival.

We're bringing together some of the world-class experts we are lucky enough to call our friends and neighbours to share their insight and knowledge in our first Spring Wildlife Break.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 39

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

WTTC: U.S. TRAVEL INDUSTRY TO BOUNCE BACK UP IN 2022 l Culture and crafts on show in Okinawa

Okinawa Announces Two New Craft Facilities for 2022

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OKINAWA, JAPAN'S southernmost prefecture, is set to welcome two new craftrelated facilities in 2022, further cementing the stunning archipelago's reputation for offering visitors a truly authentic experience during their stay: Kogeino Mori and suikara.

Currently both under construction, the new facilities will promote the beautiful traditions handed down since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Kogeino Mori (located next to

l WTTC announced its latest economic modelling

TTC research p r o j e c t s sector's GDP contributions could reach $2 trillion, a 6.2% increase from 2019, with Easter and summer travel bookings helping bolster economic recovery.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global Travel & Tourism sector, announced its latest economic modelling projecting that U.S. Travel & Tourism could rebound strongly this year, reaching $2 trillion in U.S. GDP contribution and exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 6.2%.

News of the strong recovery follows steady gains in the sector during 2021 and signals the welcome comeback of one of the world's most important economic drivers after almost two years of upheaval.

Projections by WTTC and Oxford Economics show that if the vaccine and booster rollout will continue at pace, and restrictions to international travel

continue to be eased around the world throughout the year, the sector's contribution of nearly $2 trillion to the U.S. economy could outperform 2019 levels ($1.87 trillion) by more than six percent. Other findings include: • U.S. domestic Travel & Tourism spending is forecast to reach more than $1.1 trillion for the year, surpassing prepandemic levels by 11.3% • International traveller spending in the U.S. could see growth of $113 billion during the year, reaching nearly $155 billion, slightly below (14%) 2019 levels • Employment in the sector could also surpass prepandemic levels, reaching nearly 16.8 million jobs, above pre-pandemic levels by 200,000 jobs New research by ForwardKeys, the leading travel data and analytics company, and WTTC's knowledge partner, has revealed inbound bookings to the U.S. over the Easter period have increased by 212% compared to the same period last year.

A TRAIL OF FIRE, light and fantasy brought a beautiful garden to life in the heart of the Sussex countryside on Friday, when IGNITE'S new after-dark experience opened for the first time at Nymans.

Set against a gloriously romantic backdrop, the National Trust property near Haywards Heath, is hosting the mesmerising light traiI until March 6.

The 'garden made for garden lovers' is a place where creativity has flourished and quirkiness is celebrated. IGNITE'S fantastic creation gives visitors the opportunity to wander between flickering flames and majestic trees, as lights dance from one amazing space to another.

Similarly, the latest data shows international arrivals to U.S. destinations during the busy Easter period will see a surge of 130%, compared to 2021 levels.

Robust U.S. travel bookings will continue through the summer, with a 58% increase in U.S. travel bookings this year.

Summer inbound international bookings will be similarly strong, increasing 87% over prepandemic levels.

In 2019 Travel & Tourism generated 10.4% of global GDP and more than 330 million jobs.

To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC urges governments around the world to continue focusing on the vaccine and booster rollout – and allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely without the need for testing.

The global tourism body also urges governments to replace the patchwork of restrictions for international travel with digital solutions that allow travellers to prove their status in a fast, simple and secure way.

Magical Fire and Light Trail Launches in Sussex

LONDON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM

one of the best places in Okinawa to experience karate Karate Kaikan), will be an official administrative centre of promotion of traditional crafts and boast an exhibit area and workshops for visitors. suikara (located nearby the iconic Shurijo Castle and other historic sites) will focus on traditional textile dyeing and weaving experiences, aiming to connect visitors and local artists and artisans engaged in traditional arts and crafts.

27th JULY 10th AUGUST

THE BEST STEM SUMMER PROGRAMME! OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Prof James Rothman Yale University, Nobel Prize Winner 2013 HRH The Princess Royal during the LIYSF Opening Ceremony

KEY HIGHLIGHTS 15 day STEM programme in the United Kingdom with cultural interaction Lectures and demonstrations from leading scientists held at Imperial College London Over 500 students attend from 70 different countries Scientific visits to world class laboratories and universities

Get more info here!

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

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FIRST HOMES FUNDING BOOST FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS IN PERRY BARR

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p to 99 more affordable homes are being made available for first-time buyers at the Perry Barr Residential Scheme (PBRS).

The announcement follows a successful bid for funding by Birmingham City Council for a new Government-backed scheme delivered by Homes England.

A total of £5.7 million has been awarded to the council after a successful bid to join the First Homes Early Delivery Programme – which enables properties to be

sold at 70 per cent of their market value, enabling purchasers who may otherwise not be in a position to purchase, or who may look to purchase in a cheaper market, to access home ownership in the new Perry Barr development.

If all 99 homes are bought by those looking to get on the property ladder, it will increase the number of affordable homes being delivered at PBRS to 411 of the 968 currently under construction. Under the terms of the First Homes Early Delivery Programme, the Government will

make up the remaining 30 per cent of the initial sale price, so that the developer (in this case the council) receives 100 per cent of the value when the homes are sold.

Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “These additional homes will make a huge difference to firsttime buyers in Perry Barr, helping us ensure that the neighbourhood becomes a place where people want to settle and lay roots. This is only the first phase of our longer-term vision for northwest Birmingham and is a platform for

the delivery of more much-needed homes and infrastructure in the years to come.”

Purchasers of First Homes must be eligible first-time buyers and must have a household income not exceeding £80,000 (or lower if set by the local authority). For a home to qualify as a First Home, its sale price after the 30 per cent discount cannot exceed £250,000. A First Home should be the buyer’s only home and a purchaser will need to use a mortgage or home purchase plan for at least 50 per cent of the purchase price of the home.

THE MODERN WAY TO FUND CARE

Unfortunately,

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

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Scarborough Has The Most Expensive Gardener Rates In The Country, Research Reveals

W

hile the cold of winter is keeping people wrapped up indoors, many Brits stay warm with thoughts of summer barbecues, parties in the sunshine, and eating al fresco.

Yet, come springtime, we typically find that our gardens are in no shape to host any sort of fun in the sun. In these cases, should we turn to a professional for help or roll our sleeves up and get stuck in ourselves?

Reflecting on this question, Simply Paving analysed hundreds of gardeners’ rates across the country to see where both the most expensive and cheapest professional garden services are available. The research found that Scarborough has the highest gardener rates in the UK. Generally, those living in the Yorkshire seaside town spend £400 on average for a professional gardener’s daily rate. This is more than double (104%) the national average for gardener day rates (£196).

Sourced from hamuch.com, the data analysed of gardeners’ daily rates in locations all across the UK. An average price was then generated for each location, which was then used to calculate the cheapest and most expensive regions for gardeners. Simply Paving also found that Redcar & Cleveland in the North East has

0208-865-1922

the lowest professional gardener prices in the country, averaging at £77 per day.

The regional analysis tells a different story, however. Greater London, not Scarborough’s Yorkshire, stands apart as the most expensive region to hire a gardener, costing on average £249 per day.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, Northern Ireland residents enjoy the cheapest average gardener rates in the UK, only paying £152 per day - 22% cheaper than the average national daily rate.

The data also shows that Yorkshire & Humber is the cheapest region for garden maintenance, jet washing, and paving installation, priced up at an average of £40, £87 and £238, respectively. In fact, Yorkshire & Humber is the only region in the UK to offer jet washing services for less than £100 per session.

A Simply Paving spokesperson commented: “When spring comes, most people have a choice to either hire a professional, do the work themselves or even a combination of the two. A little bit of DIY can save you a pretty penny and allow you to shape your garden to your specific tastes, while hiring a professional gardener can help you save time and make use of their impressive landscaping expertise.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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Patron To

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@PhoenixNewsUK

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

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

thephoenixnewspaper.com

ExxonMobil Expanding Oil Production In Guyana

Birmingham To Host Inaugural CW Esports Championships

EXXONMOBIL have announced its commencement of production at Guyana’s Second Offshore Development from the Liza Unity vessel, which has been hugely welcomed by the country’s Government.

The Liza Unity FPSO (floating, production, storage, and offloading) vessel is set to reach its target of 220 000 barrels of oil per day later this year – bringing Guyana’s production capacity to more than 340 000 barrels per day, which includes the more than 120 000 barrels per day capacity at the Liza Destiny FPSO. Pointing out that the increased total daily capacity of oil is good news for the Caribbean nation, with Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, saying: “The Government of Guyana and citizens welcome the operation of this new FPSO to sustainably extract and manage the country’s oil and gas resources, which will further enhance earnings from this sector to drive Guyana’s infrastructure development and improve the delivery of services to all citizens.”

Keeping abreast with the Local Content Secretariat and the Natural Resources Fund, the Government of Guyana has mandated the Ministry of Natural Resources to coordinate and work closely with international partners, local regulatory agencies, and key stakeholders within the petroleum sector to ensure the sector performs optimally in keeping with internationally recognized best practices.

The Government will be taking the necessary steps to ensure that all Guyanese benefit from the earnings derived from the petroleum sector.

THE INAUGURAL Commonwealth Esports Championships and Commonwealth Esports Forum will be staged in Birmingham, England this summer.

The Championships is a tangible result of the Strategic Partnership between the Global Esports Federation and the Commonwealth Games Federation, announced in May 2020.

The new competition in Birmingham will be supported by the British Esports Association, the not-for-profit national body established in 2016 to promote esports in the UK, increase its level of awareness, improve standards and inspire future talent.

The Commonwealth Esports Championships was sanctioned by the CGF Executive Board to be held at the same time as the 2022 Commonwealth Games whilst being independent of Birmingham 2022 and its sports programme.

The Commonwealth Esports Championships will have separate branding, medals, organisation, and governance, led by the GEF and its community of partners.

Dame Louise Martin, President of the Commonwealth Games Federation said: "I am delighted that we are announcing the first Commonwealth Esports Championships and Commonwealth Esports Forum to take place in Birmingham this summer.

“This will allow us to review the long-term relationship between the Commonwealth Games and esports as we continue to evolve and explore future editions of our event and what they could look like."

QUEEN’S BATON RELAY TOURS EXPO 2020 DUBAI ON UK NATIONAL DAY

By Delroy Constantine-Simms

T

and Sonia Dixon

he United Kingdom’s National Day celebrations at Expo 2020 Dubai kicked off on Thursday morning with the Coldstream Guards Band of the British Army leading the 16th Queen’s Baton Relay from the UK Pavilion across the site, ahead of July’s 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

As a part of the Birmingham 2022 showcase at Expo, the Queen’s Baton Relay visited several Commonwealth nations attending Expo 2020 Dubai

collectively in anticipation for the upcoming Games.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries mentioned: “2022 is set to be an incredible year of celebration for the UK, with three amazing global events on home soil.

The arrival of the Queen’s Baton Relay in Dubai will help build excitement about Birmingham 2022, the Platinum Jubilee and Unboxed”.

A 20-minute cultural presentation welcomed the parade at the India Pavilion, led by Tadu Mamu, Consul for Culture, Press and Labour at the Consulate General of India in Dubai, and Dr Gunveena

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Chadha, Director of the India Pavilion.

The 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay is an epic journey across the Commonwealth, with The Queen’s Baton visiting all 72 nations and territories, reaching Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, the Caribbean and the Americas.

The international route spans 269 days, spending between two and four days in each nation or territory, covering approximately 90,000 miles (140,000 kilometres), with over 7,500 Baton Bearers carrying the Baton in their community, arriving in Birmingham for the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games on July 28.

During the visit, each nation and territory will host events and activities that showcase untold stories from Batonbearers, athletes, and young people who are striving for change in their community, as well as showcasing a project that address one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The Baton will witness moments of celebration, visit local schools and explore iconic landmarks. The Baton will then return to England, where it will travel for 25 days, with its journey coming to end at the Birmingham 2022 Opening Ceremony.

0121 339 5885

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 43

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NEIGHBOURHOOD FESTIVAL SITES UNVEILED FOR BIRMINGHAM 2022 B Miguel Maestre Jump Starts The Soca Season With ‘Fan’

S I N G E R-S O N G W R I T E R and admitted Soca fan Miguel Maestre has released his latest 2022 single dedicated to the global community of Soca music devotees - appropriately titled ‘Fan’ - a lively midtempo track which is full of heart and an unmistakable energy.

Receiving positive feedback from listeners with many saying it evokes feelings of happiness, festivity and nostalgia, the track was written by Maestre, Stefan ‘Jaxx’ Bindoo and Rich ‘Shan’ Persad, produced by Shan (Kingdom Sound) and mixed and mastered by Kasey Phillips (Precision Productions) and features infectious melodies alongside compelling rhythms customized to get Soca lovers and partiers moving and singing along to its memorable lyrics.

With the song’s catchy hook ‘Remember it’s you who make this a fete a fete, a time we won’t forget, remember when you’re jumping and waving, it’s you who make this a lime a lime, we feting by design, remember when you’re jumping and waving.

He stated: “To me, my fans mean everything."

irmingham 2022 has announced plans to bring seven Festival Sites to local parks and community spaces as part of the celebrations for the Commonwealth Games - the biggest event ever to be held in the region.

Festival Sites are free to enter events planned for Birmingham City Centre and across the city’s neighbourhoods during the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

If approved they will provide a great opportunity for everyone to be part of the Games, even if they don’t have a ticket to watch the sporting action.

The Festival Sites will be fully accessible and will combine sport, culture, and food and drink, as audiences enjoy some of the key moments of sport on the big screen, alongside a programme of live performances from artists and community groups.

The proposals include each neighbourhood site being open for two days during the Games, and Birmingham 2022 is submitting licence applications for Festival Sites in the following locations: • Castle Vale Festival Site, located in Farnborough Fields, Castle Vale • Relaxed Festival Site, located at Sense Touchbase Pears, Selly Oak • Sparkhill Festival Site, located in Sparkhill Park, Sparkhill • Edgbaston Festival Site, located at Edgbaston Reservoir, Edgbaston • Oaklands Festival Site, located in Oaklands Recreation Ground, Yardley

• Handsworth Festival Site, located in Handsworth Park, Handsworth • Ward End Festival Site, located in Ward End Park, Ward End In line with Birmingham 2022’s ‘Games for Everyone’ inclusive approach, a fully Relaxed Festival Site for people with complex disabilities is proposed at the Sense Touchbase Pears in Selly Oak. The purpose-built facility, managed by the charity Sense, is hoping that, alongside the screening of sport, there will be specially adapted programming, including quiet spaces and activities for those that don’t want to or aren’t able to be in louder, more intense spaces.

Martin Green, Chief Creative Officer for Birmingham 2022, said: “It is really important to us that residents from across the city have the opportunity to celebrate and embrace the Games, even if they don’t have tickets for one of our competition venues. These Festival Sites would make that sure that this is possible.”

"There are also plans for large scale city centre Festival Sites and further information will be released about these later in the year.

"A full programme for Festival Sites is also due to be announced in the spring.

For more information about the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, including ticket availability, details of the Birmingham 2022 Festival, which will start on 17 March, and advice for residents and local business on how to plan for the Games, go to: birmingham2022.com.

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21/10/2021 09:05

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022

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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT - STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM

STRENGTH OF

T

oday, I want to discuss with you all the power of the mind and how strong we all are. And never have we needed this more in our lifetime than present.

Like everyone else I have had to take an uninvited break due to, Covid, Omicron, what next I wonder?

With the upheaval and changes that we have all seen and endured by this global event and now as we start to slowly emerge and get used to a new normality.

We can see the impact that this pandemic has left in its wake and how it has impacted on us all.

It is so important now not to let Covid win again and stay in our lives and in our minds. So these words are so important now for us all - Stay Safe, Stay Strong, Think Strong and Be Strong.

Like an oak tree we will bend to the wind but stand tall and proud after the wind has blown itself out as our strength will hold out.

Not physical strength but

BIRMINGHAM

THE MIND IS THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF STRENGTH

something that is far far stronger, mental strength and mental resilience, so remember these words and keep repeating them to yourself.

‘Your mind is the highest level of strength’ My mission is to be able to

support and stand up for people, who think they may not be so strong but in actual fact they are far stronger than they can imagine.

Not physical strength but something much stronger and that is the power of the mind and

mental resilience.

No one has been impacted more by Covid than the children and young people of our City of Birmingham and beyond, who were already being adversely affected by what is happening and continues to blight the lives

of the many who live in our city.

During the last period I have been developing the character of Big Dave with even more resources that can reach out to children young and old and their parents or guardians.

Now with more resources for information, help, support, advice and guidance available on my website www.bigdave. online .

It is important now more than

ever to be able to reach out to the next generation and support them wherever we can and pull together as one.

So that like the oak tree after the storms, we can help to nurture and help them grow into strong individuals that will be able to bend with whatever life throws at them.

Big Dave stands ready to help to address some of these negative pathways and behaviours and the many issues and concerns that our children might be facing.

So watch this space for what comes next and if you would like Big Dave to visit your child’s school please speak with your teachers or PTA’s and ask them to contact Big Dave through his website.

Stay Safe, Stay Strong.

Big Dave

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

O Sistema Exhibition Opens This Month INSOFAR ART gallery in Lisbon, in Portugal, have announced O Sistema, a solo exhibition by the young and talented Angolan artist Cristiano Mangovo.

Curated by Canadian Katherine Sirois, the exhibition reveals a group of previously unseen pieces that address complex socio-political issues, such as hierarchies, the deeprooted and widespread mindset of division and opposition, conflicts of interests or the exercising of power, its conquest and preservation at all costs.

Speaking about the exhibition, Sirois said: “The paintings aim to stimulate reflection on imperialism, conflicts of interest, rivalries and power games.

“No matter who sits, how, when and for how long, the system remains the same, untouchable and unchallenged.

Committed to issues such as injustice, inequity, poverty and ecocide, practising the art of typologies and archetypes, his approach goes beyond local specificities to achieve a universal dimension.”

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

ROYAL BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE VISIT FOR INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC SUPERSTARS

l Tabla supremo Zakir Hussain with BCU PhD candidate Jaspreet Singh

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 45

ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT

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s ties between British and Indian musicians boosted with the recent visit by classical music superstars Tabla supremo Zakir Hussain, acclaimed singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan, leading flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, and legendary keyboardist and producer Louiz Banks to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC).

The visit, organised by BCU India and West Midlands India Partnership, saw the artists – who are known to hundreds of millions of fans in their home country and across the globe – share advice and stories with a captivated audience, before enjoying performances from RBC percussion and brass students.

In telling the audience that ‘music has the power to change your life in a way you couldn’t even imagine’, they met with staff, students, diplomats and business leaders including the Indian Consul General of India Dr Shashank Vikram and Preet Kaur Gill MP. Musical links between the UK and India were explored between the VIPs and senior leaders of the University, before the artists – who later perform at the city’s Symphony Hall – later posed for photos with first and second year music students on stage after the event.

Shyam Naban, Director of the West Midlands India Partnership, part of the team who organised the visit, said: “We’re delighted

to support the development of cultural and artistic links between the West Midlands and India through interactions with global Indian maestros like Ustad Zakir Hussain, Padmashri Shankar Mahadevan and Rakesh Chaurasia.

"We will continue to connect with esteemed organisations in India as part of our strategy to enhance relations as we celebrate the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and ‘India at 75’ this year."

Zakir Hussain, who alongside his late father Ustad Alla Rakha was largely responsible for popularising the tabla with Western audiences throughout the 1970s and 1980s, is a virtuoso musician who gave his first concert at the age of seven and was touring with the late sitar maestro Ravi Shankar in the US at 11 years old.

The musician has also recorded and performed with many notable Western musicians including George Harrison, Van Morrison, Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, Herbie Hancock, and John McLaughlin in the great acoustic group Shakti.

BCU PhD candidate and audience member Jaspreet Singh said: “It was such a great experience to finally meet THE Zakir Hussain. As a child I use to read about him in our general knowledge book. It was very inspiring to meet and have a conversation with the best tabla player on the planet.”

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

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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

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REPRESENTATION IS EVERYTHING I t's official, University of Birmingham student Lauren Semple, will represent Jamaica in the discipline Judo, at the 2022 Commonwealth Games,

scheduled to take place the city which has been Lauren's second home since 2019.

This is another moment to celebrate for University Birmingham, who are also

l Lauren and her father, Edward Semple

By: Joan 'LJ' Hunter

one of the partners for the Commonwealth Games; now only five months away.

Lauren who is from Surrey, is a third year student studying Biology.

As well as being academically astute, Lauren's athletic ability sees her representing the university in Judo and Netball.

Not being able to chose between her two passions, which Lauren says 'bring her joy different ways, Judo, which has been part of Lauren's world since age eight, coached by her dad Edward Semple; who himself is a black belt in the sport and netball a little later, in year 7 at senior school, but says "I love it".

Lauren has represented the University in both sports at different levels of competition, and in 2019 won Gold with University of Birmingham BUCS Judo team event.

Lauren is also part University Netball Committee, as well cocaptain in the netball 5th team, who have recently qualified for British Universities, Colleges and Sports competition, in the Conference Cup final set for

l Lauren with the rest of her University Netball Club March 2022.

Due to Jamaica not having a huge home grown talent in the discipline of Judo, this opened the application that allowed people from the diaspora to apply.

Lauren who is eligible through the nationality of her maternal grandmother, jumped at the opportunity to apply.

Lauren is part of the Ray

Stevens Academy back in Surrey, and has performed successfully at different levels in this discipline, her results all formed part of her application process.

It was an overjoyed father and coach in February who recieved the good news; and called Lauren at university, to tell her; much to the delight of her Netball Club especially.

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uch to the delight of netball fans everywhere, on 3rd November 2021, England Netball announced the return of the seventeenth season of the Vitality Netball Superleague Season.

This elite domestic netball competition would commence with the 'Traditional' double header, Season Opener weekend with all 11 Vitality Superleague Teams taking part. For the first time in two years, this was to be in front of fans; across weekend 5th and 6th February 2022.

With England Roses set to defend their Commonwealth Gold medal in Birmingham at this year's Commonwealth Games; which is only months away; fans travelled the length and breathe of the country to support their teams, and get a glimpse of the England Roses players, who are littered across all 11 Franchise's, alongside home grown and International

talents from other countries showcasing their skills on court.

This took place at Resort World Arena, Birmingham.

The double header weekender started with Round 1 and Round 2 of this competition. The signalled the return to a normal season, which will be across 19 rounds, which will include play-offs and finals.

All games will return to home and away fixtures, in front of fans much to their delight, and the delight of the Franchise's, who have said; 'they missed playing in front of fans and the atmosphere this brings'.

Fixtures for the season will be played in Rounds, this will take place Friday to Monday's. The Monday night fixture will return to Sky Sports; and two fixtures from each Round will be live streamed on the Sky Sports YouTube channel.

Fans who for health or financial reasons who may not be able to support their team fully the way they did pre COVID-19; are delighted with this announcement

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As in most sports, COVID-19 has hampered training and competition some what, however with her father as her coach, this has meant Lauren has stayed on point.

This will be the first time Lauren has performed at this level, and says she is going to enjoy the competition; and do her best. Well Done Lauren!

by Sky Sports.

The Vitality Netball Superleague 2021 defending champions Loughborough Lightning, got the season on the way against London Pulse, with a winning start in Round 1, under new coach Victoria Burgess. This was to kick start a sensational weekend of matches.

The season so far has produced some shock results, which has seen last year's finalist Team Bath; loosing to London Pulse and Surrey Storm in back to back games; and the Midlands team, two times Champion, Wasps Netball only managing one win from their opening four matches.

Saracens Mavericks who narrowly missed out on a top four place last season, are thus far are undefeated; as are 2021 Champions Loughborough Lightning.

This throws predictions for this seasons top four and predictions for Champions wide open; making for an exciting 2022 Vitality Superleague Netball Season.

Tickets for Vitality Netball Superleague matches are available from each Franchise. Tickets to Commonwealth Games are available on Birmingham2022. com

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - March 2022 - Page 47

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Paula Dunn To Lead GB & NI Teams At 2022 Major Championships UK ATHLETICS has confirmed that Paula Dunn will assume the role of Team Leader across three major athletics championships in 2022.

Dunn, who has now moved into a part time role in the Para world class programme as she transitions out of the Head Coach role, will use her vast championship experience to support the Olympic programme activity in what is set to be a busy year at major championships. Working alongside Olympic Head Coach Christian Malcolm, her first Team Leader duty will be to lead GB & NI into the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Belgrade 18-20 March.

She will become full time in May, supporting the team to prepare for and compete at the World Athletics Championships in Oregon 15-24 July and the European Athletics Championships in Munich 15-21 August.

UKA Head of Performance Tommy Yule said: “I’m delighted that the Olympic programme will benefit from the huge amount of experience Paula has in such a busy year.

Senegal Team Thrown Hero's Welcome After Afcon 2021 Win

VIKTOR HOVLAND WINS 2022 SLYNC.IO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC

By: Delroy Constantine-Simms Hovland and Bland heading down the 18th hole, only to and Dennis Edman

V

iktor Hovland produced a spectacular finish to win the DP World Tour’s 2022 Slync. io Dubai Desert Classic and $1,333,330 winner's share of the $8,000,000 purse, in a playoff after two-time winner Rory McIlroy blew his chances of a third title on the last hole.

McIlroy had looked to have the tournament within his grasp.

He was tied for the lead with

send his approach shot from 267 yards into the water in front of the green. That left Viktor Hovland and Richard Bland, who is enjoying a late career renaissance after his victory at last year’s British Masters, to fight it out.

Replaying the 18th hole, Hovland held his nerve and Bland, despite an excellent chip onto the green, was unable to match the Norwegian’s birdie in the playoff, to claim his second DP World Tour title

in addition to the 2021 BMW International Open. The former star at Oklahoma State also has three wins on the PGA Tour: the 2020 Puerto Rico Open, 2020 Mayakoba Golf Classic and 2021 World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba.

Hovland also won December’s Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.

“This is pretty wild. I didn’t really think this was possible going in today,” said Hovland, who started the day six shots off the lead. I knew I had to shoot a really low number but a lot of

things had to go my way and I’m thankful that they did.

“I was fuming after the threeputt on 15 and thought that was it and I knew I just had to try to finish off well and get a nice position for the week,” he continued. “I rolled a really long one on 16 and then on 17 and, hey, we got a shot I’m pumping right now. It’s a bit surreal.”

McIlroy finished third at 11 under, followed by five players T-4 at 8 under: Justin Harding, Tyrrell Hatton, Sam Horsfield, Adrian Meronk and Erik van Rooyen.

SENEGAL'S football team was given a hero's welcome on their return home after winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time.

Tens of thousands of people, some sitting on top of cars and waving flags, gathered to welcome the players landing in Dakar with the trophy. President Macky Sall was amongst those greeting them.

The celebrations began straight after the final whistle on Sunday night, seconds after Liverpool star striker, Sadio Mane, sealed the historic victory over Egypt on penalties. People poured on to the streets of Dakar, dancing and firing fireworks into the air.

"We waited a long time,” one fan said. “The cup is finally here.

There were also scenes of jubilation in the French capital, Paris, home to a large Senegalese community, with thousands of celebrating supporters gathering at the Arc du Triomphe.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Viktor Hovland wins 2022 Slync.io Dubai Desert Classic - Page 47

Senegal Team Thrown Hero's Welcome After Afcon Win - Page 47

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by Steve Williams

irmingham 2022 is aiming to reach one million children and young people across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands in celebration of the launch of its Youth Programme.

Aimed at creating pathways that bring young people closer to the Games, it will allow them to feel part of this once-in-a-generation celebration of sport and culture.

Organised in collaboration with Birmingham City Council and Birmingham Youth Service, the ‘Bring the Power’ programme will give young people a voice, help them to be able to make a positive difference, and tackle life’s challenges.

And, at The Lighthouse youth centre, in Aston, a wide array of sporting activities, including table tennis, 3x3 basketball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball, were on hand for people to participate in – as well a range of other creative activities.

‘Bring the Power’ aims to widen knowledge, improve access to sports, art and culture while helping to boost confidence and resilience. By supporting children and young people to acquire new skills, Birmingham 2022 offers them a once in a generation chance to expand horizons and learn from others.

Working with youth organisations to provide workshops and engagement projects, the programme is working with schools - providing educational resources to understand the power of the Games.

Bring the Power will also deliver a range of interactive workshops to develop pupils’ knowledge and skills, through fun physical and creative activity.

Four youth centres have been chosen as hubs to celebrate Birmingham 2022. Including the Lighthouse, The Factory (Longbridge), The Concord (Sparkbrook) and the Clifton Road (Sutton Coldfield) will be the heartbeat of activity and in the build-up to the Games.

Birmingham 2022 is also working with British Council and Birmingham City Council

‘BRING THE POWER’ LAUNCHED TO INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE on numerous projects, including: Commonwealth Connections, linking schools across the West Midlands with schools across the Commonwealth and the Common Ground Grant Scheme, which aims to encourage cultural collaboration, facilitate conversation and promote student leadership.

Every secondary school in Birmingham can apply for a grant of £1,000 to support their involvement in the scheme.

Alton Brown, Head of Youth Programmes & Policy at Birmingham 2022 said: “We are very proud to be working together with Birmingham City Council’s

Youth Service to engage young people.

"It’s amazing to see so many children and young people engaged so far in Birmingham 2022.”

Senior Youth Worker at Birmingham City Council, Jadieal Millwood, said: “Birmingham Youth Service feel very proud to be able to work with the Birmingham 2022 team to bring the power to young people, to take part in different Commonwealth Games sports in a safe and electrifying atmosphere like The Lighthouse Young People’s Centre.”

Nigel Huddleston, Commonwealth Games Minister, added: “We want to make Birmingham 2022 the Games for everyone. ‘Bring the Power’ will help children across the region to discover new passions and connect with the Commonwealth.” “‘Bring the Power’ will enable them to interact with the Games drawing inspiration from the worlds of art, sport & culture”, said And Street, Mayor of the West Midlands.

“Birmingham 2022 represents a once in a generation opportunity for young people to come together and soak up the spirit of the Games and we have to help them take full advantage of that.” To find out more and to get involved visit: Birmingham2022.com/power.

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umours are intensifying over the possibility of rugby world champions South Africa joining the Six Nations with perennial ‘whipping-boys’ Italy being taken out of the tournament.

The Springboks are currently committed to Rugby Championship - until 2025 – but they have told the southern hemisphere’s governing body that they are exploring their option of joining the Six Nations as plans for a major overhaul of the global calendar grows. Italy joined the competition in 2000, but has struggled - last winning a game in 2015.

This follows South Africa increasingly aligning themselves with the northern hemisphere, in recent years, with the Bulls, Sharks, Stormers and Lions all joining the United Rugby Championship.

It is thought that South Africa’s closer alignment to European time zones, compared with that of Australia, New Zealand and Argentina, is attractive to them.

Furthermore, European-based teams - England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland and France - are said to be keen on cashing in on the

World Champions South Africa Looking To Join The Six Nations Fold Springboks' huge popularity, and the huge broadcasting revenue it could bring.

SANZAAR is the governing body which oversees Super Rugby and The Rugby Championship competitions.

Its chief executive, Brendan Morris, said: “South Africa has put us on notice that they are exploring their options well before Christmas.

“Everybody has to do their due diligence in exploring what competitions to be involved in, and what provides the

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best opportunity for the best commercial outcome.

"The Six Nations, World Rugby, in all walks of life people, are exploring their business models at the moment.”

Six Nations CEO Ben Morel said: "The Six Nations have added to and reduced its teams very few times in its 140 years, so it's something we would be extremely cautious about doing.

At present, we are very happy with what we have. But it can always be improved."