ACADEMIC TRIUMPHS AT THE SANTANDER X GLOBAL AWARDS
Dr Abhishek Gupta, Principal Lecturer (BusinessDevelopment)attheUniversity ofWolverhampton’sSchoolofPharmacy andLifeSciences,andDirectorandChief Scientific Officer of iNatural Ltd, has achievedanoutstandingaccomplishment bysecuring1stplaceattheprestigious SantanderXGlobalAwards2025.
This remarkable achievement follows iNatural Ltd’s prior victory at the Santander X UK Awards, where Dr Abhishek Gupta’s compelling pitches impressed judges. At the global competition, iNatural Ltd triumphed against winners from across eight countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile,Spain,Mexico,Portugal,theUK, andUruguay.
The2025awardceremonytook place in Madrid on 26th March.iNaturalLtd,abiotech company specialising in biosynthetic polymeric materials for biomedical applications, stood out for its innovative solutions and groundbreakingpotential.
The Santander X Global Awards platform recognises and supports high-impact ventures, offering opportunities for growth and development.
AAs a Santander X Global Award winner, iNatural Ltd has joined Santander X 100, an exclusive entrepreneurship community within Santander X dedicated to supporting high-impact ventures with exceptional potential. The Santander X initiative providesenterprisesatvarious stages of their lifecycle with tailored support through programs, awards, and challenges.
Dr Gupta said “iNatural Ltd’s success in the Santander X Global Awards reflects the team’s relentless dedication to innovationandexcellence.
“Competing on a global stage, our solutions demonstrated groundbreaking advancements in the biomedical sector, exemplifying the spirit of entrepreneurship, ingenuity, andsustainableimpact.
This global recognition is a testament to the groundbreaking work at iNaturalLtd.
“We are deeply grateful to Santander X for their support, networking opportunities, and the privilegeof beingpartof tSantanderX community.
Weareeagertoharnessthis support to drive progress and bring our innovative ideastolife.”
The University congratulatesDrGuptaand iNatural Ltd on this outstanding accomplishment and look forward to witnessing more groundbreaking achievementsinthefuture.
BIRMINGHAMS BIN STRIKE AND THE PEOPLE TAKING THE FIGHT TO THE STREETS
By Dr Tony Talburt
Sometimesittakesacrisistobringpeopletogetherorspur them into collective action. This certainly seems to be the caseinafewexamplesinBirminghambecauseoftherecent binstrikesinthecity.
While many people have been complaining about the mountains of rubbish scattered on the city’s streets, especiallywhenitisconsideredthattheyhavebeenpaying their council tax, a few other groups and individuals have also taken to the streets. Unlike last summer when we experiencedtensionsandfightsonthestreetsof Britain,in Birmingham some groups and individuals have literally takenthisfighttothestreetsbyorganisingstreetcollection initiatives. According to a Sky News report, rubbish collections in Birmingham have been disrupted since January, before the all-out strike started in March of this year.
AccordingtotheBBC,themainpointof contentionstems fromthecouncil’sdecisiontoremoveorchangetheWaste RecyclingandCollectionOfficerrolesorduties.Thetrade unions, however, argue that some 170 workers might face losingupto£8,000ayear.Thecouncilrefutesthisclaiming the figure is 17 people who would lose just over £6,000a year.
Asaresultof themonthslongdisputeandpartialornoncollectionofrubbishinmanypartsofthecity,Birmingham City Council declared a major incident on 31 March in response to public health concerns. Despite months of debates and finger pointing, the situation got the point whereitwasnotonlymakingnationalnewsheadlines,but also briefly discussed in Parliament. Recently, the government called in military planners to help tackle the mountingpilesof rubbishandneighbouringcouncilshave alsoagreedtocomeinandhelpwiththecollectionof the Birmingham’srubbishcollection.
However, community groups and individuals have literally taken the fight to the streets. There have been reports of individuals organising and paying for vehicles or skips to collect rubbish. In one case more than 30 members volunteered their time to help remove accumulated waste from neighbourhoods acrossthecity.
Some 14 vehicles, including tippers, flatbeds and trailerswerereportedtohavebeenusedtoaddressthe situation in areas of Sutton Coldfield and Kingstanding. In another case, organised by the Birmingham Central Mosque, a volunteer litter picking team collected 24 bags of rubbish from two Birmingham streets within a couple of hours. This community organisation was also able to arrange for people to drop off their rubbish at agreed collection points where the organisers would then arrange for theirproperdisposal.
Of course, not everyone can benefit from such communityorganisedactions,andmanywillcomplain aboutthefactthattheyhavepaidforaservicewhichis not being provided. Sometimes, however, emergency actions are necessary. During World Wars 1 and 2, food shortages led to increased allotment holders growingmorefoodforthemselves.
AlthoughweassumethissituationinBirminghamwill be temporary, at least it has helped to bring some communitiesandindividualstogetheraswetacklethis commonproblem.
‘Let Some Grass Grow for Our Butterflies and Moths’
By: HOWARD LEADER
What do you suppose is the most importanthabitatforbutterfliesand moths in Britain? You may be surprised to know that it is simply long,untreated,un-cutgrassyareas. So why are our butterflies and mothsdisappearingifthesolutionis thatsimple?Well,perhapsbecauseit is not quite so simple. Last month theannual‘UKButterflyandMoth Survey’revealed that 2024 was one of theworstyearsonrecordforour butterflies and moths, showing that more than half our butterfly and moth species are in long-term decline prompting the wildlife charity ‘Butterfly Conservation’ to declare a “National Butterfly Emergency” in order to draw attentiontothisnaturecrisisandtry andenlistthehelpofBritishcitizens to turn the tide. So, where does grass come into this? It is well understood by gardeners that a number of butterfly and moth species are attracted to different flowering shrubs and plants, but many people are surprised to learn that roughly half of our butterfly and moth species depend upon rough grasses for shelter, places to breed and lay eggs, food for their caterpillars and safety among the roots for the caterpillars to rest in their chrysalis stage while they developintotheadultinsects.
Theproblemisthatourtidyhabits haveleftverylittlenaturalgrassland for our insects to live on. We diligently mow our parks, school fields, grass patches on industrial estates, tree spinneys in residential areas and, of course our garden lawns. We cut our grass verges in our streets and even in the countryside chemical spraying and “tidy” hedge and margin management is leaving few places for our butterflies and moths to thrive and survive. The relentless decline of these key pollinator insectsissuchabigproblemthatit is hard to know what we, as individualcitizens,candotohelpbutactually,thereisonethingmany of us can do which, in our own smallway,couldcollectivelymakea huge difference. The combined acreage of private residential gardensintheUKtotalsmorethan all of our National Parks put together. We know from scientific research that if everyone with any size of a garden let small areas of their grass grow long and “wild” between April and October this could increase the numbers of our grass-dependant species by 93%, withtheaddedbonusthatitisless grass to cut and you might attract butterflies and moths not usually foundingardens.
If enough neighbours in your area are also leaving some grass long you may well berewardedwithsummervisits from butterflies like the Small Skipper and Common Blue or thecolourful Green Carpet moth. Don’t worry, Green Carpet Moths won’t eat your carpets theyjust look a bit like carpets-theircaterpillarsonly eat grass! If you have a large garden, youmay consider leaving a sizeable area uncut but make paths through the long grass so thatyou can wander in your own meadow and get a good look at the insects you may find there.In average private gardens, leavingapatchorstripof long grass in a sunny spot shouldattract a variety of butterflies and moths. If you have a courtyard or small garden, then I haveanother idea for you. For this I use a half barrel, but any large containerwilldo.
I simply buy a packet of Wildflower Seed Mix from thegardencentre,sowthem about now and in a few weeks, they should start to push up colourful plants and grasses which will give you your very own “mini meadow” for the summer and attract the insects. If this form of peaceful direct action appeals to you and you decide to provide some longgrassforthebutterflies and moths this summer, whynotsendmeaphotoof your project and let me knowif itwasasuccess?
You can email: howard.leader@thephoenix newspaper.com In the meantime, here are some butterflies and moths to look out for during May, the month in which our whitebutterfliesemerge:
Butterfliestolookoutfor inMay
Large White - Our largest white butterfly has a resident UKpopulationreinforcedeach year by migrants from the continent. It can be encountered right across the country and is a frequent garden visitor, though if you are growing brassicas now would be a good time to net them over as they are a favouritedelicacyfortheLarge White and Small White caterpillars.TheSmallWhiteis verysimilartotheLargeWhite butnoticeablysmaller.
Orange Tip - A real sign of Spring,thisdistinctivebutterfly is to be found anywhere in the Britain where Garlic Mustard or Cuckooflower, the food plants for their caterpillars, grow. Only the male has the distinctiveorangewingtips,but the female shares the dappled underwing unique to this species.
Veined
-
garden regularandnowmuchmorescarcethanit usedtobe.Itcaneasilybemistakenfora Small White, but a close look at the underwingshowsanattractivepatternof green-black veins. This butterfly is no danger to your brassicas as their caterpillarseatwildgrasslandplants.
SmallCopper-Oneofmyfavourites.This small butterfly is unmistakable for its brightburnishedcopperforewings.Tobe found in most parts of the British Isles, though in decreasing numbers having suffered a marked decline in recent decades. This butterfly is also dependant on“unimproved”grassland,itsimplycan’t survive on fertilised grasses and requires Common and Sheep’s Sorrels for its caterpillars. Always a delight should you beluckyenoughtospotonebaskingona sunnyday.
MuslinMoth-Iwasverypleasedtofinda MuslinMothingrassesinthecornerof my garden. Usually night flying, these moths can be seen if accidentally disturbed in the daytime. Widespread acrossBritaintheMuslinMothisonthe wingbetweenAprilandmid-June.Iwould not normally handle moths, but I gently letthisonecrawlontomyfingersoyou too can appreciate its beauty before replacingatthebaseof thegrasses.Next monthIwillhavesomemoreideasforyou onwayswecanallhelpourbutterfliesand moths as the peak three months of the butterfly season approach. Until then, happybutterflyspotting!
Green
White
Another
THE WORLD BIDSA FAREWELL TOPOPE FRANCIS
As the first South American, Pope Francis passed away, aged 88, markingtheendof a12year pontificate.Many of the streets around St Peter's Basilica, in Rome, wereclosed,asmorethan ahundred foreign dignitariesandonlookers, joined the funeral mass. Many had been called in fromallsidesof Italyas heads of state and other dignitaries tooktheir placesinthealtar-photos showed that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, FrenchPresident Emmanuel Macron, US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian PresidentVolodymyr Zelensky, had all met in theVatican
Withhymnsplayingout on giant speakers and sung in Latin, the voice of 91-year-old Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re rangloudandclearashe presided over the mass. Outside, there was loud applause when the Pope's simple wooden coffinwasbroughtout. Applause marked some other salient momentssuch as when Cardinal Re,aspartofhishomily, remembered Pope Francis’ commitment to migrants and peace. "War”,hesaid,resultsin thedeathof peopleand the destruction of homes, hospitals and schools,”
“Waralwaysleavestheworldworse than it was before: it is always a painful and tragic defeat for everyone."Thecardinalemphasised that the Pope had repeatedly urged the world to "build bridges, not walls".
During communion, a procession of white-clad priests made its way down St Peter's Square, carrying golden chalices full of wafers for communion, as many in the large crowdmovedforwardtoreceivethe hosts. Soon after, Cardinal Re blessed the coffin with holy water, beforeburningincenseinathurible - a symbol of cleansing - and the basilica's bells tolled three times after the blessing of the coffin was carriedout.
Authorities said some 140,000 people lined the streets, clapping and waving as the hearse – a repurposed white popemobile –crossed the Tiber River. Once it reached Santa Maria Maggiore, it wastakeninsideandlivebroadcasts ceased.
PopeFranciswasburiedinthe righthand side of the church, near a beloved icon of the Virgin Mary. "Four hundred thousand people shared a historic and emotional moment, and thanks to everyone's commitment the daytookplaceinasolemnand serene way, without critical issues," said Fabio Ciciliano, headof theCivilProtection. Adatehasnotyetbeensetbut it is thought it could start as early as 5 or 6 May, after the Novemdiales - the mandatory nine days of mourning - are over. With 135 cardinals set to attend, it will be the largest conclave in modern history and one of the most unpredictable. AfterSouthAmerica,isittime foranAfrican,orAsian,pope?
Hockley Social Club presents ‘In Conversation with Jess Phillips'
One of the best-known figures in contemporary British politics is to discuss her life and work at Hockley Social Club in Birmingham on Sunday 22June2025.
Jess Phillips, UK Minister for Safeguarding, MP for Birmingham Yardley,andproudBrummie,willshare her experiences with broadcaster and host Kathryn Stansczyszyn and a live audience in an evening of conversation at the Jewellery Quarter cultural venue. The Birmingham-born political firebrand will talk about her front-line work in both Westminster and her constituency,aswellasthechallengesof herhighprofilerole.
Jess will discuss the recent public attack on her by one of the world’s most powerful business and tech figures turned US government hawk, aswellashereffortstochangeculture and legislation around violence against women and girls in the UK, andherexperiencesgrowingup,living and working in Birmingham. A donation following the event will be shared with city organisations Birmingham and Solihull Women's Aid and RSVP Midlands, who supportwomenandchildrenaffected bydomesticviolenceandsexualabuse orviolence.
Jack Brabant, co-founder and director of Hockley Social Club, said: “Jess’ ascent through British politics and firm position and activism on a number of really important issues affecting society is admirable.
“As a key supporter of culture and community in Birmingham - something weknowwesharewithJess
we felt the time was right to inviteJessin.Thiseventforms part of our commitment to making all types of events, includingculturalandpolitical, accessible and affordable for audiencesinourcity.”
In 2024, Jess Phillips was reelected for her fourth term as the Labour candidate for BirminghamYardley
a large south-eastern district which she has representedinParliament since 2015. Post-General Election, she was appointedaParliamentary Under-Secretaryof State intheHomeOffice,with responsibility for safeguardingandviolence againstwomenandgirls.
Kathryn Stansczyszyn is a journalist, broadcaster and presenteronBBCRadioWMand BBC Midlands Today, and occasionally on BBC News, BBC BreakfastandBBCFiveLive.As aBBCpoliticalreporterandradio presenter for the West Midlands region, Kathryn has worked on someof thebiggeststoriesof the last few years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple local and general elections, and theSection114announcementby BirminghamCityCouncil.
Threeadultswithaprofoundandmultiple learning disability from Wolverhampton will be starring in a photographic display going on show in Birmingham later this month.
David Bache, Kenny Oates and Parmi Banga have taken part in a project organised by the rights-based charity, Changing Our Lives. Changing Our Lives approached the City of Wolverhampton Council'sdayopportunitiesservicetowork together on the project, called Front and Centre, which involves people with a profound and multiple learning disability andtheirfamilies.
It aims to see beyond disability, using photographs to tell people’s stories,locatingthelivesof people with a profound and multiple learning disability within family portraiture to show ordinary experiences, such as growing up and family life. Workshops facilitated by Changing Our Lives were held at the council-run Action for Independence for the trio and their families, and they werealsogivendisposablecameras totakecandidphotosathome.
TfW announces first Public Transport Summit
TheCabinetSecretaryforTransportandNorthWales, KenSkatessaid:“Publictransportisbeingtransformed forthebetterinWales,includingthroughourinvestment innewtrainsandanexcitingfutureforbusesthrough ourBusBill.
“I’mlookingforwardtoWales’firstPublicTransport Summitwherewewillhaveanopportunitytoallwork togetheracrossallsectorsandonacross-borderbasis.” JamesPrice,TfWCEOsaid:“ThiswillbeWales’first PublicTransportSummitandwehaveanarrayofvery influentialandinterestingspeakers,whowillbejoining usandbepartof thediscussionaboutthefutureof publictransportinWalesandtheBorders.
“This is about building collaborative working partnerships between all sectors within the transport industryandofferingajoined-upvisionforthefuture.I’d encourageallrepresentativesfromacrossthetransport sector and business community within Wales and the Borderstojoinusforthisevent.” ForSummitinformation,speakersandtickets,visitthe TransportforWaleswebsite.
Exhibition puts people with disability Front and Centre
The exhibition will go on show at the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham from Thursday 17 April until Monday 21 April, 2025, and entry is free. Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council'sCabinetMemberfor Adults and Wellbeing, said: "The council has worked closely with Changing Our Lives on many different projectsovertheyearstohelp improve the lives of people withlearningdisabilities.
andover£1billionintotheSouthWales Metro.
"Weknowthatpeoplewith disabilitiesarerarelygiven opportunities within the artsastheirdisabilitycan, wrongly, be seen as a barrier. So, we are delighted to be able to work with Changing Our Lives and to give David, Kenny and Parmi the chance to be part of this importantexhibition."
The exhibition is supported by the UK Government's Inclusive Communities Fund, the West Midlands Combined Authority's Commonwealth Legacy Fund, Heart of England Community Foundation, and the United by 2022 Legacy Charity. For more information about Changing Our Lives, visit https://changingourlives.org/
Council social workers hailed ‘amazing’ by national body
City of Wolverhampton Council social workers have been recognised for their 'amazing'workbyanationalbody.
Nofewerthan24membersof staff and twoteamswerenamedAmazingSocial Workers by the British Association of Social Workers – with their cases profiled on the BASW website and socialmediachannelsthroughoutWorld Social Work Month. Within Children's Services team managers Danielle Mason, Laura Wood, Dimpal Dabb, JamesFoxandLeanneBroxton,deputy principal social worker Dijon FosterBrooker, advanced practitioner Otillia Kuvarega,independentreviewingofficer DawnHalford,socialworkersAshmarie Berwise, Nikita Lewis, Tasleem Aktar, Louise Jones, Jigna O'Callaghan and KayRides,andtheSENDFamilyHelp Teamwererecognised.
And in Adult Services, deputy principal social worker Laura Carter, social worker managers Yeukai Chingwena, Alison Harris and Nicky Hack, forensic social worker Sarah Robbins, and social workers Mev Clewes, Oluwaseyi Olatunde, Gorka Vazquez, Emily HaynesandTeresaLowbridgewere recognised, along with the North Adult Social Work Team. CouncillorJacquiCoogan,theCity of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, YoungPeopleandEducation,said:
“Our social workers are all a credit tothesocialworkprofession–and it is great to see so many of them recognised publicly in this way by the British Association of Social Workers.
“I would like to congratulate them all." Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing Councillor Jasbir Jaspal added:“Welldonetoeveryoneof our fantastic social work staff for the incredible work they do, day in, day out and I am so pleased that their dedication to vulnerable children, young people and adults across our cityhasbeenrecognisedbytheBritish Associationof SocialWorkers.”
Lindsey Bates from the British Association of Social Workers told each nominee: "We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you for your selfless dedication to our profession and the people we support – for being an AmazingSocialWorker."
Countdown to.... the UK’s biggest free Big Bang science and engineering Fair!
Their mission is to enable more young people from all backgrounds to be inspired, informed and progress into engineering and technology. They work closely with their Corporate Members and in partnership with hundreds of organisations as they lead collaborative efforts to improve the impact of all engineering and tech inspiration and careers activities for young people through Tomorrow’s Engineers and managing The Tomorrow’s EngineersCode.
EngineeringUK ignites a passion for STEM among young people from all backgrounds through EUK Education and our school engagement programmes such as The Big Bang. Their careers resources help teachers bring STEM to life through real-world engineeringandtechstoriesviaNeon.
Their research and evidence build insight into the current workforce and our future needs. And their evaluations build understanding of what really workstoinspireandinformthenextgeneration.
They also advocate for policy development in STEM and careers education and workforce planningforengineeringandtech.
Fancycomingeyetoeyetoeyewithatarantulaorasnake whosevenomcouldbecomeacure?
Orfindingoutwhycockroacheshaveincrediblystrong bones?Havingagoatcodingtoflyyourowndrone? WorkingoutwhatAIcandotohelpyouinworkandplay?
Findoutwhatascientistorengineerdoesdaytoday! Discoverhowanimalshavebeeninspiringengineersand scientistsandmoreattheUK’sbiggestfreescience extravaganza–TheBigBangFairtakesplacefromTuesday 17toThursday19June2025attheNECinBirmingham.
Everyyear,thousandsof youngpeopleattendTheFairand takepartinhands-onactivities,incredibleliveshows, workshopsandcareerspanels.Studentsaged10to13get theopportunitytohearfirst-handfromexcitingscientists andengineersandconnectwithinspiringcareerrolemodels.
Morethan20,000youngpeoplefromacrosstheUK attendedTheFairin2024with80%wantingtogoontodo moreSTEMactivities.EngineeringUKisanot-for-profit organisationthatdriveschangesomoreyoungpeoplechoose engineeringandtechnologycareers.
station springs to
CustomerspassingthroughTransPennineExpress’(TPE)Stalybridgestationweretreatedtoa burstofEastercheer,thankstothecreativeeffortsofyoungpupilsfromanearbyschool. 28youngartistsfromYears3to6atthelocalTrinityChristianSchoolusedtheirartistictalentsto combinethethemesoftrainsandEaster,producingarangeofcolourfulandupliftingartworkproudlydisplayedatthestation.ThepupilspresentedtheircreationsonApril3,bringingsmiles tocustomers’facesinthebuild-uptotheEastercelebrations.
ThevibrantartworkcapturesthespiritofEaster,witheachtellingitsownstoryofhopeandlove. Theprojectnotonlygavepupilstheopportunitytoshowcasetheirartisticskillsbutalsoallowed themtolearnmoreaboutthelocalrailwayandhowstationsplayavitalroleinconnecting communities.
Asathankyoufortheirhardworkandcreativity,eachpupilwaspresentedwithanEasteregg.
Andrew Watkins, Community & Development Manager at TPE, said: “We are delighted to showcasethefantasticartworkcreatedbypupilsfromTrinityChristianSchoolatStalybridge station.
“It’swonderfultoseehowthey’vecreativelycombinedEasterthemeswithourrailwayheritage. Thedisplayaddsawelcomingandupliftingtouchtothestation,brighteningthejourneyforour customers.”
AlisonPurnell,PrimaryArtTeacheratTrinityChristianSchool,said:“Year3-6pupilscreated vibrantartworkthatcombinedthethemesoftrainsandEaster,usingavarietyofmixedmedia techniques.
“Frommono-printingtofree-handdesigns,theirpiecesbeautifullyconveyedtheEastermessage ofhopeandlove,capturingthespiritofrenewalandconnectionthroughcreativeexpression.”
The artwork remained on display throughout the Easter holidays, offering customers an opportunitytoenjoythevibrantdesignsastheytravelthroughStalybridge.
Orion names Garima Singh as its CPO
Orion Innovation ("Orion"), a leading digital transformation and productdevelopmentservicesfirm, hasappointedGarimaSinghasits ChiefPeopleOfficer(CPO).
Singh will lead Orion's global HR strategy,peopleengagement,talent acquisition, and employee development initiatives, playing a crucialroleinfosteringacultureof growth and innovation across the organization.Shebringsmorethan 20 years of experience in human resources and business operations to Orion. Most recently, she spent 15 years at Persistent Systems, a multinationalITservicescompany, holding several critical leadership positions.
In her latest role as Persistent's North America HR Head and GlobalSalesHRLeader,Singhwas instrumental in driving the company's exponential growth through strategic talent initiatives. She was also responsible for building and leading the global compensation and benefits team and spearheading sales and leadership hiring programs that supported the organization's expansion.
"Garima brings exceptional leadershipskillsanddeepexpertise in scaling global technology organizations,"saidBrianBronson, CEOofOrion.
"She also has a proven track record of designingandimplementingorganizational compensation plans and tools that help enable accelerating profitable growth, and her addition to our team marks the first stepinmystrategicplantostrengthenour leadership and expand our capabilities."
Beforehercorporatecareer,Singhservedas an officer in the Indian Armed Forces, developing strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment to integrity and teamwork.
This military experience has shaped her approachtoorganizationalleadershipand teamdevelopment."WhatdrewmetoOrion was its commitment to fostering technological and human capital excellence,"saidSingh. "IlookforwardtoworkingwithBrianand the team to implement innovative people strategies to enhance our collaborative culturewhilesupportingOrion'scontinued global expansion and market leadership." Singhholdsabachelor'sdegreeincomputer science engineering and a post-graduate diploma in business management specializing in Human Resources. She earned a PG certification in Human Resources from XLRI School of ManagementinIndia. Orion Innovation is a leading digital transformation and product development services firm. Rooted in engineering and design thinking, along with a unique combinationof agility,scale,andmaturity, itsteamof approximately6,400associates helps Fortune 1000 companies improve efficiencies, enhance customer experiences, anddevelopnewdigitalofferings.
Through its delivery centres in North America,EMEA,IndiaandLatinAmerica, OrionservesclientsacrossTelecom,Media & Technology, Sports & Entertainment, Professional Services, Financial Services, andHealthcareindustries.
your stories
AMERICAS TALLEST MAN, GEORGE BELL, DIES
GeorgeBell,whowasoncethetallestmanintheUnitedStatesat7feet, 8inches,hasdied.Hewasrememberedforhiskindnessandfun-loving personalitybyhiscolleaguesattheNorfolkSheriff’sOffice,wherehe servedfrom2000to2014.ItwasreportedthatBelldiedathomein Durham,NorthCarolina,surroundedbylovedones.nownasa“gentle giant,”Bell’sheightwascausedbygigantism,aconditioncausingexcess growthhormoneproduction.HegrewupinPortsmouthanddidnot reachhisfullheightuntilhis20s.
Beforejoininglawenforcement,Bellplayedbasketball.Hewasa backupcentreatBiolaUniversityinCaliforniaintheearly1980sand laterjoinedtheHarlemWizards,ateamsimilartotheHarlem Globetrotters.
In2007,GuinnessWorldRecordsofficiallyrecognizedhimasthetallest livingmanintheU.S.BellalsoappearedonTV,includingarolein ‘AmericanHorrorStory:Freakshow’. Heoftenspokeabouttheeverydaystrugglesof beingexceptionallytall, likefindingclothesorfittingintocars.Bellissurvivedbyhisdaughter, DawnieBell,whofondlyrememberedherfatherassomeonewho“loved people”andmadeeveryonearoundhimfeelspecial. Hewas67.
Visionary entrepreneur and real estate developer Dre Taylor is taking his mission on the road with a transformative14-cityU.S.touraimedat helping people of African descent reclaim power through land ownership, real estate investment, and dual citizenshipinGhana.
Through his company, Beyond Investments,Dreismakinginternational property ownership accessible, secure, and impactful for the diaspora. “We’re not just selling properties,” says Dre. “We’re creating pathways to ownership, legacy,andrealconnectiontoAfrica.” ThetourlaunchesonApril18withthe firststopinNewYork.Othertourcities include Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago,Houston,Dallas,LosAngeles, Oakland,Charlotte,Atlanta,Detroit,St. Louis,andKansasCity.
Born and raised in Kansas City, Dre Taylorhasalwaysbeendrivenbyimpact.
He founded Nile Valley Aquaponics, a groundbreaking urban farm that produced over 100,000 pounds of food andemployedlocalyouth.Thisnational tour invites first-time investors, professionals,retirees,andlegacy-minded families to turn their curiosity about Africa into concrete, wealth-building action.
Whatyou'llwalkawaywith
• Step-by-step guidance on legally purchasingpropertyinGhana
•Accesstoincome-generatinginvestment opportunitiesineco-communities
• Resources to relocate and secure residencyordualcitizenship
Whether you’re ready for your second home, looking for passive income, or starting a new chapter abroad,thistourisyourgatewayto trusted information, expert insight, and real results. Dre Taylor’s leadershipattractedglobalattention, including mentorship from TIME 100honoureeWillAllen.
Prior to relocating to Ghana, Dre served on several boards, including twoappointedbytheMayor’sOffice ofKansasCity,Missouri:
• The PIEA Board, which oversaw construction projects ranging from $10millionto$100million
• The Sustainability Board of KansasCity,Missouri
AftervisitingGhanaduringthe2019
Year of Return, Dre became a Ghanaian citizen and launched BeyondInvestmentstohelpthoseof African descent invest safely and meaningfullyinAfrica.Hisflagship development, Beyond View, offering 105 units, is a luxury off-grid ecocommunityinGhana’sscenicAburi Mountains.
It features solar-powered homes, rainwater systems, rooftop pools, and even a roller-skating rink. The project blends sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment.
• Wealth-building strategies to create a lastingfamilylegacyabroad
“Thisisaboutreclaimingourpower, ourland,andourlegacy,”saysDre.
“WearemakingAfricaaccessiblefor good.”
Jay-Z and mom launch 2025 Shawn Carter Scholarship program
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund helps students advance their education by giving them the resources they need to enrol in college, pay the tuition, and successfullyfinishcollegeontime.
Founded by Jay-Z and his philanthropist mother, Gloria, the program focuses on helping low-income students who live in underserved areas across urban America. The SCSF provides individual scholarships paid directly to the educational institution to any applicant who qualifies and reapplies yearly from admissiontograduation.
The award may be used to cover tuition expenses and related supplemental educational expenses such as books, lab fees, travel and select costs of living. All Shawn Carter Scholars are required to “give back” by performing community service and by serving as mentorstoyounger,aspiringShawnCarterScholars.
Eligibilityrequirements:
* Must be a high school senior, students with GED diplomas, undergraduate (2 year or 4 year) college students,andvocationalortradeschoolstudents.
*UScitizenorPermanentResident
*25yearsoldoryounger
*MinimumGPA2.0
The deadline for this scholarship is usually in April, withtheawardamounttendingtobeupto$7,500.
Harris Primary Academy continues to shape young futures
highly values personal development and fostering a sense of responsibility. Pupils learn to respect different families and take on leadership roles, like running the reading café. Councillor Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools & Families, said: “This Ofsted reportfromHarrisPrimaryAcademyColeraineParkisfantasticandhighlightsonceagainthatourschoolsinHaringeyprovideourstudentswith thebestpossibleeducation.
“Through their principles - endeavour, enjoy, and excel - they are shaping bright futures for every child who walks through their doors. Our childrenaredestinedforextraordinarythings,andwe’reexcitedtoseewhatthefutureholdsforthem.”
Ann Graham, Director of Children’s Services at Haringey Council, said: “The curriculum at Harris Primary Academy Coleraine Park showcases determination,authenticity,andcharacter,withteachersequippingstudentswiththeknowledge,skills,andconfidencetheyneedtosucceed. “Eachchildisunique,withdiverseneeds,makingitessentialtoimplementatailoredcurriculum.HarrisAcademyexcelsindoingthis,andweare extremelyproudofthisOfstedreport.
“Congratulations to everyone
contributed
Academy Coleraine Park, said: “I am so proud of
and dedication has translatedintothisexceptionalreport.
“Iwasparticularlypleasedtoseethattheinspectorsobservedthekindnessandcarewhichourpupilsdemonstratebothinsideandoutsideof lessons,andthepositiveattitudeswithwhichtheyapproachtheirlearning,particularlyreadingwhichisacorefocusatourAcademy.Thankyou
experience.”
TwohighschoolsinWolverhamptonareamongthehappiestinthecountry.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT
Data analysed by The Sunday Times from Ofsted's Parent View survey found that an incredible 99% of parentsandcarersreportedthattheirchildishappyatHighfieldsSchoolinPenn,thejointhighestscorein England.Meanwhile,98%ofColtonHillsCommunitySchoolparentssaidtheirchildishappy–puttingboth schoolsamongthetop10non-selectiveschoolsnationally.
Highfields headteacher Graham Tate said: "This outstanding achievement is a reflection of our hardworkingstaff,dedicatedstudents,andtheunwaveringsupportofparentsandcarers.
"At Highfields, we are committed to not only delivering academic success but also fostering a school community where every student feels happy, healthy, and valued. Seeing these results is a testament to the positive and supportive environment the school strives to create every day, and only strengthens our motivationtocontinuedevelopingathrivingandhappyHighfieldscommunity.
“Thank you to everyone who makes our school such a fantastic place to learn and grow!" Colton Hills HeadteacherJulieHunteradded:"WeareoverthemoonwiththefindingsfromTheSundayTimesandthe positive parents' feedback from our own survey, helping us to create a happy, healthy, high performing school.
“Asagrowingschoolthathasbeenservingthecommunityforthelast50years,wearedelightedwiththis affirmation as we continue to strive for the best outcomes for our students and ensure that there are no barrierstohighachievementandsuccess."CouncillorJacquiCoogan,theCityofWolverhamptonCouncil's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "It's really important that children are happy at school, as it positively impacts their learning, wellbeing, and social-emotional development, ultimately leading to greater academic success and a more fulfilling life – and so it is fabulous to see that childrenatHighfieldsandColtonHillsenjoytheirschoolssomuch.”
The data draws on results from secondary schools with at least 500 pupils and 100 parent submissions andusesdatafromtheyearwiththemostresponsesbetween2020and2025.
high schools
Space Pathways Ecosystem and Partners:
Beyond our Boundary: By Rudy Page
We recently collaborated with Otilia Dogaru, supported by the British Interplanetary Society, to delivera“WomeninSpace”event.
Joel Singh’s personal commitment and inclusive leadership were instrumental in hosting and sponsoring the event at the Canary Wharf Space Innovation Hub. The panel’s collective experience and diverse perspectives were impressive, offering clear, forward-thinking strategies for institutional leadership, policy development, and widening participation to support skills growth and transformationacrossalllevelsofthespacesector
SpacePathwaysEcosystemwasrecentlyinvited byDr.ClaireNelson,FounderoftheCaribbean SpaceSociety,toparticipateinaHackathon.I wasespeciallyhonouredtoserveonthejudges’ panel.
The feedback and assessment process was rigorousyetfair,providingmeaningfulvalueto thestudentswhotookpart.Ialsosharedabrief preview of the upcoming “Space Pathways Ecosystem Creativity Awards 2025”, supported by the British Interplanetary Society, Odyssey Magazine, and Commonwealth Digital Initiatives.
In this inaugural year, submissions will focus on three pilot projects supported by the newly established Caribbean Space Skills Hub. This initiative is designed to build capacity for Knowledge Mobilisation and Communities of Practice (CoPs), with a focus on Institutional Development,ResourceManagement,andPolicy Implementation:
1.BarbadosFuturesBlueSpaceProject
2.JamaicaFuturesSustainabilitySpaceProject
3.MontserratFuturesVolcanoSpaceProject
SpaceisTomorrow'sEconomy
This approach provides strategic direction for space education and aims to buildpublicsupportforthesectorthroughinspiringoutreachactivities.
The Space Pathways Ecosystem Creativity Awards aim to empower young peopleandtheirmentorstoidentifychallengeswithintheirneighbourhoods and to co-create solutions that strengthen families and support long-term sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives are also advancing the UK’s International Trade and Development objectives across the Commonwealth Caribbean,layingthegroundworkforspace-enabledinstitutions,systems,and structuresfocusedonsustainability.
RudiPage,Founder SpacePathwaysEcosystemandamemberoftheBritishInterplanetarySociety www.spacepathways.london
AFor more than 20 years, Angelique Songco — known in the Philippines as “MamaRanger”—hasworkedtoprotect one of the world’s most important ocean areas: the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, home to more than 1,000 species of coral andfish.
In2025,SongcowashonouredbytheU.S. Department of State as an International Womanof Courage (IWOC).Shereceived the award for her work protecting the environment, helping local communities, and supporting women leaders in conservation.
The IWOC award was created in 2007. It recognizes women around the world who showbraveryandleadership,often
Aatgreatpersonalriskorsacrifice. Morethan200womenfromover90 countries have received the award. These women advance human rights,theruleof law,andtherights of women and girls, which helps createstrongerandmoreprosperous countries.
Songco has managed Tubbataha Reefs since 2001. Under her leadership, the park has become a model for marine protection. The park covers nearly 100,000 hectares intheSuluSea andishometoover 360 species of coral and nearly 700 typesoffish.
Italsohelpslocalcommunitiesby supporting ecotourism and sustainable fishing. But the park still faces threats from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU)fishing. Manyof theseperpetratorscome from other countries and fish without permission, take too many fish, and employ fishing techniques that damage coral reefsandharmsealife.Thiskind of fishing breaks local laws threatensfoodsuppliesandtakes jobs away from local communities.
AThe Philippines is not the only country with this problem. IUU fishing is a global issue and has hurt ocean life and coastal communities in the South China Sea, across the Indo-Pacific, and even in places like Tanzania and Ghana.
Large, industrialized fishing fleets often ignore local rules, use damagingnetsthatdragacrossthe sea floor, and compete with local fishermen,devastatinglivelihoods. Insomecases,theseforeignboats haveevensunksmalllocal
boats. Thanks to Songco’s leadership, illegal fishing in the protected waters around Tubbatahahasdeclined.
She and her team have improved patrols, educated the community, and trained parkrangerstobetterprotect the area. Her work not only saves the ocean, it also supports fair rules, good leadership, and trust between peopleandtheirgovernment.
These efforts include training, using satellite tools, and working togetheronoceansecurity. Thesepartnershipssupportlocalleaders likeSongco,whoseeffortshelpprotect shared natural resources and local economies. Angelique Songco’s IWOC award shows how one person’s dedicationcanmakeaglobaldifference. Her bravery in protecting marine life and standing up to illegal fishing is a powerfulexampleof thechangestrong womencanleadaroundtheworld.
AThe United States works with the Philippines and other countries in the Indo-Pacific region to fight IUU fishing.
Your smartphone is a gateway to your personal information – and cybercriminalsknowit.
How to Spot and Avoid Mobile Phishing Attacks!
Phishing attacks are a common tactic, targeting you with fake messages, websites, and apps. Unlike desktop threats, mobile attacks exploit 4.3 billion smartphone users worldwide.Staysafebylearninghow thesescamsworkandhowtodefend againstthem. WhatAreMobilePhishingAttacks?
Theseattacksaimtostealsensitiveinformation such as login or financial details by deceiving you. Mobile phishing uses characteristics of smartphones that make it harder to spot bad actors,likesmallerscreens. For example, attackers may send a text pretendingtobeyourbank,askingyoutoclick a link and verify your account. Once you do, you're taken to a fake website to capture your credentials.Smartphonephishingalsothriveson messaging apps like WhatsApp, where fraudulentlinkscanappearasurgentmessages fromsomeoneyoutrust.
HowtoRecognisePhishingAttempts
Suspicion is your first line of defence. Cybercriminals often rely on urgency, fear,orcuriositytotrickyouintotaking action without thinking. Learn to examine messages critically before engagingwiththem. First, scrutinise the sender's details. A legitimateorganisationwon'tusepersonal email addresses or phone numbers. Second,holddownlinksonyourmobile to preview the URL. If it looks suspicious or doesn't match an official domain,don'tclickit.
Watch out for poor grammar or spelling errors, as most companies proofread their communications.Also,bewaryof unsolicited attachments or requests for certain information.Alegitimatecompanywon'task for sensitive data like passwords via text or email. How to Protect Yourself and Your Device Takingproactivestepswillreduceyourriskof fallingfortheseattempts.
StrengthenYourLoginCredentials Use strong, unique passwords for every account,andstoretheminasecurepassword manager.Implementtwo-factorauthentication (2FA)whereverpossibleforanadditionallayer ofsecurity.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
AVPNisanessentialsecuritytool, especially when you're using public Wi-Fi. This software encrypts your connection to stop attackers from interceptingyourdata.
Choose a reputable provider and install a mobile version from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store,dependingonyourdevice.For Android, you can also download a mobileVPNforeasieraccessorextra featuressuchasadblocking. KeepYourOperatingSystemand AppsUptoDate
Developers often release updates to patchsecurityvulnerabilities.Turnon automatic updates to stay ahead of cybercriminals and their evolving tactics. This advice applies to your phone'soperatingsystemaswellasthe appsyoudownloadforit. SafetyThroughVigilance Knowing how common phishing attacks are will help you get used to watchingoutforthem.Bycombining the practices above, you can protect yourselfandyourdevicefromgrowing cyberthreats.Alittlecautionnowcan saveyoualotoftroublelater!
LondonBlockchainSeriesannouncesfirstFinance
SummitinpartnershipwithCliffordChance
TheLondonBlockchaineventsserieswillbehostingitsfirst Finance Summit in partnership with Clifford Chance, Tokenovate,GlobalDigitalFinanceandEuropeanBlockchain Association.
The groundbreaking event set for 3 June 2025 in Canary Wharf,Londonwillbringtogetherindustryleaders,innovators, and decision-makers at the intersection of blockchain technology and finance. As the financial sector continues to evolveamidstrapidtechnologicaladvancements,thissummit presents a unique opportunity to explore how blockchain is reshapingthefutureoffinance.
From revolutionising payment systems to transforming asset management, delegates will experience a day of insightful discussions,networking,andhands-onlearning,alldesignedto equipthemwiththeknowledgeandconnectionsnecessaryto thriveinthisdynamiclandscape.
Thepaneldiscussionswillcoverkeytopics,including:
How blockchain is revolutionising payments, asset management,andoperationalresilience ComprehensiveguidetoregulatorychangesacrosstheUK, EU,andUSandtheimpactonthefinanceindustry Theriseofdigitalcurrencies,stablecoins,andCBDCs,and whattheymeanfordifferentorganisations
Howtointegrateblockchainwithlegacyfinancialsystems andmeasurerealROI
AlexStein,ConferenceDirector,LondonBlockchainsaid:"Blockchainisnolonger justabuzzword;itisactivelyandrapidlytransformingthewayfinancialservices operate,frompaymentstoregulatorycompliance.
“Blockchainisreshapingfinance,andthissummitwillfocusonwhatreallymatters to anyone in the financial sector such as real-world impact and the future of financial services. The summit will be a day of practical insights, actionable strategies,andreal-worldcasestudies."
Thesummitwillfeaturespokespeoplefrommajorglobalorganisations,including: PaulLandless,PartneratCliffordChance Sabih Behzad, Managing Director, Head of Digital Assets and Currencies TransformationatDeutscheBank BilalJafar,HedgeFund&CryptoCorrespondentatDowJones EmmaLovett,ExecutiveDirector–MarketsDLTatJ.P.Morgan KonstantinosAdamos,GroupLeadLegalCounselatRevolut
Thefulldaysession,whichisfreetoregister,willprovideauniqueopportunityto learn from industry pioneers driving blockchain adoption and discover how blockchainenhancestransparency,complianceandefficiencyandcantransformthe financialsystemtomeetfuturedemands.RepresentativesfromVodafone,Credit Suisse,SchrodersandUBSamongstotherswillalsobespeakingattheevent.
Interestedpartiescanregisterforacomplimentarypasstoattendthisinnovative eventthatwillbringtogetherindustryleaders,innovators,anddecision-makersat theintersectionofblockchaintechnologyandfinance.AttheLondonBlockchain Conference,weshowhowBlockchainwillchangetheworldandhelppeoplesee anotherwaytomanagedata,buildscalableon-chainsolutionsandachievegreat things.
Theydothisbycreatingvaluable,insightful,andengagingeventsthateducateand inform,allowingyoutoconnectandnetworktobuildstrongbusinessrelationships. Theirconferenceisthebestavenuetoseeblockchaininnovations,bigecosystem announcements, new product launches, technology updates, keynote speeches, panels,andfiresidechatsfromblockchainleaders.
By Kunle Aderemi
Jamaican Prime Minister Visits South Florida
SouthFloridawelcomedThePrimeMinister ofJamaica,Dr.theHonAndrewHolnesson hisfirstvisittotheregionasprimeminister.
Jamaicans in the Diaspora, led by Consul Generalof Jamaica,OliverMair,welcomed
Prime Minister Holness, who attended a numberofsignatureevents,thefirstofwhich wasahighlyanticipatedTownHallmeeting with Jamaicans in Broward County. The ChristwayBaptistchurchwasfulltocapacity andoverflowingasfolkscamefromfarand widetogreetandlistentothePMandtofield questionstohiminthebrief Q&Asession thatfollowed.
PM Holness gave a positive update on Jamaica,withhighlightsonwhathedescribed as fantastic investment opportunities, the solidlyimprovingeconomy,thestabilityofthe Jamaicandollarandsignificantandsteady decline in homicides. The Prime Minister sharedalsothattherateofunemploymentis atitslowestinyears,andthenationaldebtis undercontrol,allsettingthestageforabright futureforJamaica.
He mentioned an emphasis in eradicating inefficiencies and bureaucratic red tape and the government’scommitmenttomake iteasiertodobusinessinJamaica.
Thecrowdthatcametogreethim eagerlylistenedtohisupdateswith obvious interest, and were very engaged, especially with tough questionsduringtheQ&Asection oftheprogram.
He listened, took notes and promised to revert to the community with responses and actiononthesubjectmattersaired.
ThePMthankedmembersof the Diasporaforitscontinuedsupport, through remittances, medical missions, investments and representation, and said he anticipates even greater participationfromthediaspora.
ATheprogramflowedseamlessly and professionally with the brilliant guidance of Judge Norman Hemming III, who playedhisroleextremelywellas Master of Ceremonies. The Jamaica Folk Review and the SouthFloridaCaribbeanChorale werewellreceivedastheyoffered cultural musical performances amongspeechesandprayersatthe Town Hall. Next on his agenda, was the PM’s attendance at the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Gala in Miami, where he served as patron. The AFJ – a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization-wasfoundedin1982 toassistJamaicancharitiesinthe areasofeducation,healthcareand human and economic development.
The AFJ is supported by Jamaicans and Americans with much support from the Diplomatic core, and in particular former US ambassadors to Jamaica, multinational corporate entities, and individuals making their mark in philanthropyintheinterestof Jamaica. The AFJ also honors individuals and organizationsthathavemade outstanding contributions in their service to Jamaica, especially in the fields of economic development, philanthropy and strengthening the bonds of friendship between America andJamaica.
These awards include the InternationalHumanitarian Award and the AFJ International Achievement Award. Visit https://theafj.org/ for more information on the AFJ. There were other private receptionsheldinthePM’s honor,butthefinalofficial engagement was a Church service at the Faith Center in the city of Tamarac, where the PM joined over two thousand worshippers forSundaymorningservice. This was a wellorchestrated, packed and involved visit to South FloridabyPMHolnes
Jamaicans in South Florida beamed with pride as the world famous
Davie, lit up in Jamaican colors, honoring our Jamaican Prime Minister’svisit.
Peace and Sport launch the #WhiteCard 2025 campaign to promote peace through sport
Ontheoccasionof theInternational Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the Organization Peace and Sportlaunchedthe#WhiteCard2025 campaignfromMonaco.
This global movement aims to highlighttheroleofsportasavector of peaceandsocialinclusion,witha particular focus on the 460 million children living in conflict zones. According to UNICEF, one in six childrenlivesinaconflictzone,facing the loss of access to education, the absenceof playgrounds,andtherisk ofsocialexclusion.
In response to this reality,PeaceandSport advocatesforincreased investmentinsports,a toolrecognizedbythe United Nations as essential for reconciliation, conflict prevention, and postconflict reconstruction. Peaceeducationisatthe heartofthisinitiative.
Sportservesasapowerful educational tool, teaching essential values such as respect, teamwork, and resilience. By integrating sports for peace programs into educational systems, particularly in conflictaffectedareas,childrencan regainaccesstostructured learningenvironmentsthat foster both academic and personalgrowth.
Furthermore, sports play a crucial role in post-conflict reconstruction by helping reintegrate displaced youth, rebuild communities, and promotesocialcohesion.Peace andSporturgespolicymakers and institutions to prioritize investmentinsportsforpeaceto ensure every child has the opportunitytolearn,develop, andcontributetoapeacefuland resilientsociety.
The#WhiteCard2025campaignis supported by prominent sports figures,theChampionsforPeace. Among them are Didier Drogba, VicePresidentofPeaceandSport, aswellasGraceGeyoro(France, Football), Cheick Cissé (Ivory Coast, Taekwondo), Zakia Khudadadi(Para-Taekwondo)Siya Kolisi (South African, Rugby), Clarisse Agbegnenou (France, Judo),andEganBernal(Colombia, Cycling). All are committed to raising public awareness of the impactof sportinbuildingmore peacefulsocieties.
Theofficiallaunchtookplacein MonacointhepresenceofH.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, a strongadvocateforsportasatool forpeaceandPatronofPeaceand Sport.PeaceandSportinvitesthe international community around theworldtojointhemovementby sharingtheir#WhiteCardandthe messageonsocialmedia.
A simple gesture, yet one that carriesapowerfulmessage:sportis arightandavitaltoolforbuilding abetterfuture.
Lime Solicitors joins Child Brain Injury
Trust’s legal panel
TheNigerianBarAssociation(NBA),YobeStateBranch,heldaninaugurationceremonyfor itsnewlyelectedofficials,markingthecommencementoftheirtwo-yearterm.
The nine-member executive committee will focus on the welfare, development, and advancementoftheassociationduringtheirtenure.Inheraddress,outgoingChair,Altine Ibrahimreflectedonhertimeinoffice,citingsignificantaccomplishments,includingthe conceptualizationoftheNBABarCentreProject,whichisnamedinhonourofGovernor MaiMalaBuni.
Ibrahim emphasized that this project is intended to create a conducive working environment equipped with essential facilities such as conference halls, a library, and training spaces. Ibrahim also highlighted the challenges the branch faced, particularly condemning the unfortunate invasion of the Chief Magistrate Court in Potiskum, which drewtheBar’srobustdisapproval. Sheexpressedgratitudetothestategovernment,seniorlegalprofessionals,andpartners fortheirongoingsupportinareassuchaslegalempowerment,capacitybuilding,welfare initiatives, and public interest matters. The newly elected chairman, Ahmad Khalifa, committed to executing his duties impartially and in accordance with the established guidelines.
The ceremony concluded with Magistrate Court Judge Abdullahi Saleh Samanja administeringtheoathofofficetothenewexecutives.
Thenewexecutiveteamincludes:
Chair:AhmadKhalifa
ViceChairman:BubaMohammed
Secretary:AbbaMustapha
MainaAssistantSecretary:AliSuleimanKadai
Treasurer:MaryamIdrissaBamai
FinancialSecretary:AbdulMalikIsa
WelfareOfficer:IdrissM.Suleiman PublicSecretary:MuhammadBukar
Provost:BabaUmarNuhu
Serious injury law firm Lime Solicitors has been appointedtotheChildBrainInjuryTrust’s(CBIT) legal panel – enhancing its commitment to supportingfamiliesaffectedbychildhood-acquired braininjuriesacrosstheUK.
TheChildBrainInjuryTrust,establishedin1991, provides essential emotional, practical and legal supporttofamilieswhoarenavigatingthecomplex challenges following a child’s brain injury. The charity helps families with guidance on education rights, medical care, welfare benefits and financial security,ensuringtheyhavethesupportneededto make informed decisions during such a difficult time.
As part of the partnership, Lime Solicitors will offer expert legal advice to families affected by childhoodbraininjury,ensuringtheyhaveaccessto high-quality, tailored legal support. The firm will work closely with the charity’s childhood-acquired braininjuriescoordinators,whoprovideemotional and practical assistance from the point of injury andthroughtherecoveryprocess.
t
Emma Harpur, legal support partnership manager at the Child Brain Injury Trust, said:“Everyfamilyaffectedbychildhoodacquired brain injury deserves to feel informed,supportedandempowered.
“Our new legal support service brings together expert legal partners and our dedicated coordinators to provide fully integratedsupport–alwaysinthefamily’s best interests.” Lime Solicitors will primarily be supporting families in Leeds, providing a crucial point of contact for families in the Yorkshire and Humber region.
Vicky Blodwell (left in pic), serious injury partner at Lime Solicitors, said: “We are honoured to join the Child Brain Injury Trust’s legal panel and support the incredibleworktheydoforfamiliesdealing with the aftermath of childhood brain injuries.
“Theeffectsofsuchaninjuryarelife-altering, and it is essential families have access to the rightlegalguidancetosecurethebestpossible outcomes. We are committed to making a differencebyprovidingcompassionate,expert legal support, and we look forward to collaborating with CBIT to help families rebuildtheirlives.”
Martin Usher (right in pic), head of serious injury at Lime Solicitors, added: “We take a collaborative and holistic approach to supporting those affected by childhoodacquiredbraininjuriesandtheirfamilies.
“We take great pride in being a trusted legal partnerofCBITasourethosandapproaches are closely aligned.” The appointment builds upon Lime Solicitors’ long-standing support for CBIT, which includes sponsoring and taking a leading role in the organisation of annualTheCBITGames,whichcontinuesto growyearonyear.
Italsoaddstothefirm’spartnershipsandclose workwithothercharities,includingTheKatie PiperFoundation,SpinalInjuriesAssociation, RoadPeaceandDerbyshireBloodBikes.
Aninvitationledagroupof enthusiaststothehomeof the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) in Conningsby,Lincolnshire,Wednesday9thApril2025. The programme was organised by serving Aviator Cpl MarcCourseamemberof BBMF.
The enthusiasm was evident from the start with individuals visiblybecoming excited as they arrived in the visitors Centre. The weight ofhistory began to unfold in front of our eyes with outstanding displays ofvarious pictures of the famous aircrafts, Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancasteraircrafts of BBMF, and historical artefacts which tells numerous storiesover decades.
A
group photo of our visitors on the day
A very historic gathering of individuals who served, currently serving orrelated to someone who servedintheRoyalAirForce.
(L-R) Eddy Smythe whose father JohnnySmytheservedasanofficer inWWII.
The visitors included outstanding individuals such as Jamaican Ralph Ottey, age 101 WW2 veteran RAF, Trinidadian Prince Albert age 99 WW2veteranRAF,EddySmytheson of Sierra Leonian Flt Lt Johnny Smythe WW2 RAF who was responsibleformanagingtheveterans ontheWindrushShiptoandfromthe Caribbean.RalphOtteyvividlyrecalls hisjourney on the Windrush Ship with Johnny Smythe, from England, viaTrinidad, to Jamaica in 1948.VisitorsincludedWOCampbell, veteran RAF, and other guests such aswriters, historians and members of the public. Cpl Marc Course, organiserof thevisit,isservinginthe footstepsofhisgrandfatherJamaican PasteurIronsWW2veteran.
After a coffee and a chat in the Lancaster Lounge, we had a totally immersive experience of a guided tour around the hanger, right next toHurricane, Spitfire and Lancaster aircrafts. It’s one thing seeing them inthe sky but being in touching distance of them was simply an unforgettable joy to us all.
Prince Albert
age 99, WWII Veteran and Cpl Marc Course, currently serving, whose grandfatherPasteurIronsservedin WWII.
Theleisurelyvisitwasfollowedby lunch and numerous exchanges inconversationsabouttheday.
The Typhoon aircrafts were practicing for their next aerial display; hence we were treated to some spectacular flying manoeuvres. A massive thanks to Cpl Marc Course and all other members of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight for their tremendous efforts in organising such an excellent visit which has left us all with an unforgettable experience.
Blog byDonaldCampbellFounderof The Forgotten Generations CIC 17thApril2025
L-R) Ralph Ottey, age 101, WWII Veteran RAF, Prince Albert Jacob, age 99, WWII VeteranRAF and Donald Campbell, Veteran RAF.
WWIIVeteranRalphOttey,seated,sharingsomeofhismarvellousmemoriesduringthewar
Reliving the years by listening to WWII Veteran Ralph Ottey sharing hisexperiences, especially his service on 617 Dam Buster Squadron during the War, was not only educational but creating undocumentedhistory.
Ralph Ottey, age 101, WWII Veteran,
Jacob,
SteveBackshallannouncesDeadly LivetourforAutumnHalfTerm
Award-winning wildlife presenter Steve Backshall has announced that he’ll be taking his show ‘Deadly Live’ to arenas across the UK this autumn half term, introducing wildlife fans of all ages to some of the world’s most formidable predators. In a show that transports the audience across land, sea and sky, Backshall will combine daring stunts with cutting edge science, to thrill, entertain and educate his fellow adventurers.
Trackingdowneverythingfrombig catstodinosaurs,in‘DeadlyLive’ the wildlife presenter will deliver the most electrifying half-term entertainment on offer this autumn.You can look forward to joining Steve as he embarks on heart-pounding adventures, tackling daring stunts, mindblowing experiments, and cuttingedgescience.
From big cats and birds of prey to Dinomania dinosaurs, snakes, and more, this electrifying live show takes you across land, sea, and sky in an unforgettable wildlifespectacle.
Steve will track down some of the world’s most formidable predators - the creatures most would never dare to face. The ultimate adventurer experience, ‘Deadly Live’is set to bring you to the edge of your seat andpromisestobeenjoyableforadventurersof allages.
Based on the popular BBC Deadly Franchise, the tour willkickoff inNewcastle,goingontovisitNottingham, Swansea, London, Bournemouth, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Hull. A wildlife adventure for the whole family is coming to Birmingham as Steve Backshallhosts‘DeadlyLive!’inOctoberhalf term.
HookieLife Entertainment brings ‘Release Therapy’ to Jamaica
Washington DC-based Caribbean culture and event brand HookieLife Entertainment is bringing its internationally celebrated ‘Release Therapy’ to Kingstonfortheveryfirsttimethismonth.
Thiselectrifyingeventpromisestodelivertheultimatekick-offtothe2025Jamaica Carnivalweekend–atimewhenrevellersfromaroundtheworlddescenduponthe island to soak in its unique Carnival experience. As the name suggests, Release Therapy Jamaica is designed to be a euphoric escape – a high-energy fusion of pulsatingCaribbeanbeats,premiumentertainment,andpureislandvibes.
Patronscanexpectanunforgettablenightof celebration,withacarefullycurated lineupoftop-tierDJswhowilldelivertheverybestofSoca,Dancehall,Reggaeand more,alongsideHookieLife’ssignatureproductionelementsthathaveearnedthe brand a loyal following in North America, the Caribbean and beyond. Fans of ReleaseTherapyhavecometoknowandlovetheeventastheofficialkick-offparty and fete-lovers’ reunion for the annual summer spectacular known as ‘Hookie Weekend’intheWashingtonDC,MarylandandVirginiaarea(DMV).
ForthisinauguralJAedition,theHookieLifeEntertainmentteam,hasonceagain joined forces with longtime collaborator Renaissance Disco and anticipates a successfuldebutproduction.ArepfromHookieLifeshared:“We'rethrilledtobe bringingReleaseTherapytoJamaica,especiallyduringoneofthemostanticipated timesontheCaribbeanpartycalendar.
“Kingstonistheheartof Jamaicanculture,andwecan’twaittoaddourunique flavourtothemix”.Withareputationforcuratinglegendaryeventsthatattract Soca lovers, Caribbean music enthusiasts, and global partygoers, HookieLife EntertainmentaimstotakethingstothenextlevelwithReleaseTherapyJamaica and to create a vibrant atmosphere with infectious and inclusive vibes to unite JamaicaCarnivalattendeesfromvariouscornersoftheworld.
Whetheryou'reaCarnivalveteranorafirst-timerlookingtoimmerseyourselfinthe action,thisistheeventtokickoffyourJamaicaCarnivalweekendinstyle.‘Release TherapyJamaica’byHookieLifeEntertainmenttakesplaceonThursdayApril24th 2025attheDulceLounge,inKingston,Jamaica.
British actors to debut in Nollywood epic adventure film ‘Ireke’
AdTwoBritishactors,DemetrinTurinandAlexFranklyn,wassettomaketheirNollywooddebutin‘Ireke,’ thenewepicadventurefilmbyNigerian-bornfilmmakerGbolahanMacjob.Bothactorsplayleadroles.
Turinhasfeaturedinfilmslike‘TheItch,’‘Deathday,’amongmanyothers.‘Ireke’setsouttoretelltheAfrican slaverystorytoaglobalaudiencewhilebridgingthegapwithBlacksscatteredacrosstheworldwhohavetheir ancestryrooteddeeplyinAfricancountrieslikeNigeriaandGhana. Macjob,whoisanEmmynominee,seniorjournalistandproducerwiththeBritishBroadcastingCorporation, explainedtheresolvetotellaslavestorythatmanybelievehasbeentoldoverandoveragain.“Inthecourseof makingoneofmydocumentariesin2024,IcameacrossastoryofhowAfricanslavesrebelledagainstBritish colonialauthoritiesintheCaribbeanandhowBritainwasforcedtoagreetoatreatywiththeseslavesknown astheMaroonsfromJamaica,”hebegan.
“IrealisedthattheseJamaicanMaroonshadsomeYoruba,GhanianandIgboancestryanddecidedtotell theirstorybyweavingitintoaNollywoodfeatureandtherebybridgingthegapwithourrelativesinJamaica, Brazil,ColombiaetceteraandtheCaribbeanIslandswheretheslaverebellionhadanimpact.”
AdmittingthattheAfricanslavetradethemeisn’tanewone,MacjobstressedtheneedforAfricanstotell Africanstoriestoaglobalaudience.“Theslavethemeisnotnew,buteverysingleslavemoviewehavewatched wasmadeinHollywood,”herevealed.
“Thetimehascomeforustobetheonetellingourstoriesandthefactthatthisparticularstoryisaboutthe heroicsofourancestorsisthereasonI,asajournalistandastoryteller,wanttotellit.”Continuing,Macjob said,“ItopensupoldconversationsbetweenusandourCaribbeancousins,betweenusandourGhanaian brothersandsisters,becausetheseweretheslaveswhocollaboratedandfoundsuccess,soourhistoryshows thatwearebetterofftogetherthanapart.”
‘Ireke,’tellsawiderangeofdifferentaccountsbyAfricansofhowAfricansweresoldtoworkonSugarcane plantationsduetotheboominSugarsalesaswellastherebellionthatensuedwhentheslavescouldnolonger takethemaltreatmentintheCaribbeanandJamaica.AccordingtoMacjob,thehistoricalfeaturewasentirely filmedinNigeriaandhasawidecastthatdepictscharactersoftheerainwhichthestoryisbeingtold.
The cast includes Tobi Bakre, Kolawole Ajeyemi, Bolanle Ninalowo, Fathia Balogun, Yemi Sodimu, Peter Fatomilola,MofeDuncan,andAntarLaniyanamongstmanyothers.ThetrailerwassetforanearlyApril release.
WithaplannedpremiereforsummerinLondon,theUK,Europe,theCaribbean,NorthAmerica,Lagos, Nigeria,andWestAfrica,Macjobisfocusingontravellingwiththefeaturewiththesoleaimofpreachinglocal toaglobalaudiencewhilebridgingthegapwithAfricansinthediaspora–especiallyintheCaribbean,and Jamaica.“WewanttospreadthewordandgivetheglobalnorthatasteofNollywoodcinemaexperience,after whichwewouldbeopentostreaming,”Macjobsaid.
Introducing the Polaroid Flip: The ultimate point-and-shoot instant camera for an analogue life
PolaroidunveilstheFlip:Atech-packedinstantcameraforhigh-qualityshotsatthe clickofabutton.
Withmoderninnovationhiddeninsideaniconicpoint-and-shootdesign,thePolaroid Flipistheultimateinstantcameraforananaloguelife.Featuringsonarautofocusing, ahyperfocal4-lenssystem,Polaroid'smostpowerfulflashandsceneanalysis(warning youwhenyourshotsareoverorunderexposed),yougethighqualityshotseverytime.
Polaroidreignitesreal-lifeexperiencesandtheFlipandinvitesyoutostepawayfrom screenstocaptureunfilteredmoments—lived,notlostinalgorithms.
Tech-packed instant camera for sharper shots - With a flippable lid for ultimate protection,thePolaroidFlipembodies80yearsof Polaroidinnovationandiconic features.Flipisthebestcameraforeveryonewhowantstogetgreatshotswithease.
Hyperfocal4-LensSystemforbeautifullysharpshots:Fourautomaticallyselected sweetspots,dependingonthedistancetothesubject(0.65m,0.85m,1.2m,2.5m) thatensuresharperfocusacrossphotographystyles.
Sonar Autofocus ensures your subject is always in focus: Sonar waves to determinesubjectdistanceandselecttherightlens,formaximumfocalclarity, deliveringcrispfocus–eveninthedark.
Polaroid'smostpowerfulflashforanylightingcondition:LocatedintheFlip's 'lid,'thisadaptiveflashadjustspowerbasedonsubjectdistance,illuminatingup to4.5maway.
SceneAnalysisforwell-exposedpictures,moreoften:Photographersreceivean alertwhenthephotomightbeoverorunderexposedthroughtheviewfinderLED, orwhenthesubjectistoocloseonthe'lid'display.
Instant photography over instant gratification - Polaroid Flip is more thanjustacamera—it'saninvitationtoembracereal-lifemoments.
Inthishyper-digitized,constantlydoomscrolling,high-anxietyage,the PolaroidFlipoffersawaytoconnectwithlife'sbestmoments–thereal, tangible,analogueones;witheightpicturesinapackthatwillconnectto life far more than 800 digital ones. Polaroid delivers a true analogue experience:photosyoucanholdforever,notpixelslostinthecloudor forgottenonaphone.
TheFlipinvitescreatorstosimplylivealifeworthcapturing,thenclick theFlip'siconicredshutterbutton.AvailablefromApril29,thePolaroid FlipwillbeavailablewithearlyaccessformembersstartingApril15.
Itlaunchesonpolaroid.comonApril29andinretailersfromMay13.
Compatible with Polaroid i-Type & 600 film, the Flip is USB-C rechargeableandcomeswithaneckstrap.ItconnectstothePolaroidapp viaBluetooth,offeringnewlyoptimizedmanualsettingsthroughtheapp, allowingfullremotecontrol.
Additional features include Double Exposure and a Self-Timer mode, givingcreatorsevenmorecreativefreedom.
3 in 10 workers feel their organisation is not effective at handling stress
Almost
To Mark Stress Awareness Month in April, Acas commissioned YouGov to ask employees in Britain about whether they feel that their organisation is effective at managing workrelatedstress.Thepollalsofoundthat37%of employees felt that their workplace was effective at managing stress and 9% didn’t know.
Acas Interim Chief Executive Dan Ellis said: “It is encouraging that there are employers that are good at managing stress, but it is concerning that nearly three in ten employees thinkthattheirworkplacefallsshort.
“Stresscanaffectanyone,andtheimpactscan besevere.Itishugelyimportantforemployers to be able to spot the signs of stress and providesupporttostaff.
Acasadviceforemployersonmanagingstressatworkincludes: lookoutforanysignsof stressamongstaff be approachable, available and have an informal chat with staff who are feelingstressed respect confidentiality and be sensitive and supportive when talking to staff aboutwork-relatedstress communicate any internal and external help available to staff such as financialadviceif thecostof livingisacauseof stress have clear policies, encourage staff to raise their concerns and provide trainingtomanagers.
Thesignsof stresscaninclude: poorconcentration findingithardtomakedecisions beingirritableorshorttempered tearfulness tiredness lowmood avoidingsocialevents.
Acas publishes new guidance on neonatal care leave
AWorkplaceexpertsAcashaspublishednewguidanceonneonatalcareleavetocoincidewithachangein thelawthisweekend.
Working parents are now entitled to additional time off while their babies are sick in hospital. The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 comes into effect on 6 April 2025, providing a new leave and pay entitlement for parents with a baby in neonatal care. Acas’s advice provides information on what neonatalcareis,whoiseligibleandtherightsof parentswhotakeit.
AcasInterimChief ExecutiveDanEllissaid:“Becomingnewparentscanbeanincrediblystressfultime, especiallyif theirbabyrequirescareinhospitalforawhile.
“Anyemployeethatrequirestimeoff tohelpcarefortheirchildinthesecircumstancesshouldbetreated withcompassionandunderstanding.Ouradviceprovidesemployersandmanagerswithguidanceonhow theycansupportstaff memberswhoneedtotakeneonatalcareleave.”
Thenewlawaimstogiveparentstherighttohaveupto12weeksleaveandpaydependingonhowmuch timetheirbabyisinneonatalcare.Thisisinadditiontoothertimeoff andpay.
The right to take neonatal care leave applies from the first day of work. Eligible parents can take neonatalcareleaveoncetheirchildhasbeeninneonatalcareforatleast7consecutivedays.
CarolineLee-Davey,Chief Executiveof Bliss,acharitythatsupportsfamilieswithneonatalbabies,said: “Themostsupportiveemployershavealwayssoughttohelpparentsinthesecircumstances,butwithouta clear statutory framework, they’ve had to rely on measures like sick leave and compassionate leave or otherimprovisedsolutions,creatingchallengesforHRteamstonavigate.
“Thisnewentitlementcreatesaclearanddefinedstatutoryprovision,recognisingthatthemostimportant placeforbothparentstobewhentheirbabyisinneonatalcareisattheircotside.”Timeoff forneonatal careisavailabletoanyonebirthparent,fatherorpartner,spouse,civilpartneroradoptiveparent.
When it comes to informing their employers, parents need to self-declare and provide some extra information. Employees should contact their workplace HR representatives to go through specifics relatingtotheirpersonalsituation.
Parentswhohaveababyadmittedtoneonatalcareuptotheageof 28daysmightbeeligibleforupto12 weeksof leaveanditmustbetakenwithin68weeksof thebaby’sbirth.
Extremists and right-wing commentators were up in arms about King Charles after a Ramadan Iftar event was held at Windsor Castle — which was enough for extremists on social media to accuse the King of convertingtoIslam.
Nearly 400 Muslim guests gathered in St George’sHallonSundaytobreaktheirfast.
Ramadan Tent Project organised the event, a UK Charity that coordinates multiple open Iftar events throughout the holy month. The social media account Christian Concern posted a video on social media of the adhan being held at the royal residence, which attracted numerous critical comments.
Meanwhile, several right-wing media outlets breathlessly accused King Charles of ‘pandering’ to Muslims and Islam. Critics question the outrage, noting that as head of state in a country with a significant Muslim population and the Commonwealth—which is home to approximately 700 million Muslims—King Charles’s gesture just reflectshisrole.
Despite the predictable vitriol from xenophiles and racists — with some even accusingKingCharlesofbeingaMuslim— many more celebrated the event on social media. The Iftar comes after King Charles III and Queen Camilla prepared dates for charity donations and met with members of the Muslim community ahead of the holy month.
cKing Charles III’s fascination with Islam and Muslims is well known — he made several positive speeches about the religion over the past three decades as Prince of Wales.Abookreleasedin2018suggeststhat the King’s views and beliefs are similar to manyintheMuslimcommunity.
‘Charles At Seventy: Thoughts, Hopes and Dreams’mentionshowhestudiestheQuran andthinksChristianitycanlearnfromIslam.
On the political front, the book says he is sympathetictoPalestinians,opposedthewar inIraqanddisagreeswiththebanonburqas inEurope.
The former prince has shown a public interestindifferentfaiths.In2015,hesaidhe wouldkeepthemonarch’straditionaltitleas “Defender of the Faith” but saw himself as the protector of all faiths. During his first speechasKing,here-emphasisedthatpoint: “Whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty,respectandlove,”hesaid. IntheUK,theKingplaysanactiverolewith theMuslimcommunity.HesetupMosaicin 2008, an organisation that provides mentoring for the young and disadvantaged in the Muslim community. He is patron of the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, founded in 1985 and his first major address on Islam was at the Sheldonian Theatre for theCentreforIslamicStudiesin1993.
HowSikhcommunities celebratedVaisakhi2025
Hundredsof thousandsof peoplefromthe SikhcommunityrecentlymarkedVaisakhi. AlsocalledBaisakhi,Vaisakhiisthefestival which celebrates the founding of the Sikh community, the Khalsa, in 1699. It was originally a harvest festival in the Punjab region of India until it became the Sikh's mostimportantfestival.
In east London, where it is thought there are 90,000 Sikhs, many enjoyed celebrating at an event in Newbury Park in Ilfordwhere there was music, performers, food, and stalls selling traditional jewellery and clothing. Event organiser, Joydeep Das, said: "It's not just for the Sikh community but predominantly it is ... and the Sikh communitylovecelebrating.
"They needed an occasion like this to celebrate." Celebrations traditionally included singing and music, as well as reading scriptures out loud and chanting hymns, with many of the faith also choosingVaisakhiasthedaytobebaptised intotheKhalsabrotherhood.
A Spring festival which happens on the 13 or 14 April every year, it’s one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar, celebrating 1699 - the year when Sikhism wasbornasacollectivefaith.Ithasbeena harvest festival in Punjab for a long time, even before it became so important to Sikhs.
ASpringfestivalwhichhappensonthe13or 14 April every year, it’s one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar, celebrating1699-theyearwhenSikhismwas born as a collective faith. It has been a harvest festival in Punjab for a long time, evenbeforeitbecamesoimportanttoSikhs. Ever since, to celebrate Vaisakhi, Sikhs have beenvisitingplacesof worship(Gurdwaras) and also decorated for the occasion. Many enjoyed parades and special processions throughthestreetscalled‘NagarKirtans’. With big celebrations taking place in Anandpur Sahib, in Punjab, which is where Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, farmersalsousedVaisakhiasanopportunity to give thanks for a plentiful harvest and prayforagoodoneintheyeartocome.
The UK's largest Vaisakhi festival was celebratedinVictoriaPark,inSmethwick,in the West Midlands, with celebrations also taking place in Birmingham, including NagarKirtanprocessionscommencingfrom various Gurdwaras: culminating in the Vaisakhi Mela at Handsworth Park. There were also celebrations in Trafalgar Square and Southall, in London as well as in Gravesend,inKent.
These events across the UK provide an immersive experience into Sikh traditions and are open to all, fostering community spiritandculturalunderstanding.
Chelsea Truck Co. and Kahn Design unveil the Defender 90 Concept 001 – a bold fusion of heritage and innovation
Chelsea Truck Co. has commissioned Kahn Design tocreateanextraordinaryconceptvehicle,redefining modernautomotiveexcellence.
TheDefender90Concept001emergesasavisionary reinterpretation of the legendary Defender, blending British tradition with avant-garde styling and technical mastery. This one-of-a-kind prototype acts as a design showcase, previewing bespoke upgrades destinedforfuturelimited-runmodels.
Each detail has been precision-engineered to challenge conventions while honouring the Defender’s enduring legacy. Commanding the road, Concept 001 rides on newly announced 20-inch Hammerhead RS-Forged wheels, paired with robust 33-profileall-terraintyresforanimposingstance.
Up front, facelifted headlights lend a sharper, more assertiveedge,whileaKAHNbrandedrigidsparewheel coveratthereardeliversapolishedaccent.Theexterior is crowned by a lightweight, aerodynamically optimised vented bonnet in deep gloss black—a performanceinspired flourish that heightens both dynamism and prestige.
Inside, Concept 001 elevates Defender luxury to new heights. The hand-finished black leather interior, adorned with Britannia blue piping and extended upholsteryaccents,introducesanunprecedentedlevelof bespokesophistication.
Verge Motorcycles breaks record with over 310km on a single charge
Technology company and electric motorbikepioneerVergeMotorcycles has broken the Guinness World Recordforthelongestjourneybyan electricmotorbikeonasinglecharge.
The addition of Chelsea Truck Company’s extrawideover-fendersandcarbonfibrereardiffuserspats amplifies its bold profile. Built for adventure and elegance alike, the lower body features 3D-textured protective paint, combining resilience with a rugged yetrefinedfinish.
An exclusive Kahn Design Concept Identity Badge underscores its artistry, alongside meticulously curated detailslikecolour-matchedsideventswithCTCPlaques, K A H N bonnet lettering, and the signature Chelsea Truck Co. radar emblem. These elements celebrate the vehicle’s uniqueness, epitomising precision and British designexcellence.
Cloaked in signature KAHN Volcanic Rock Satin paint with 3D Military-Textured accents, Concept 001 stands as a testament to automotive ingenuity, where bold individuality, innovation, and peerless craftsmanship unite.
The record-breaking journey was almost 311 kilometres in length and was accomplished with the serially manufactured Verge TS Pro electric motorbikeinLondononthe22ndof March2025.“Thisworldrecordisan amazingly proud moment for the entire Verge team,” says Verge MotorcyclesCMOLauriLaukkanen.
Their record-breaking trip lasted for just over 16 hours and took them through suburban areas inside the London M25 ring road, passing through various districts of the city. The traffic conditions during the recordsetting effort were typical of a big city, meaning occasional congestion, traffic lights, and pedestriancrossings.
“We have been developing the efficiency, driveability, and features of our motorbikes for years, and we wanted to show the world that anything is possible. This record is a concrete demonstration of what our unique technology and proprietary architectureareactuallycapableof.
“For us, this is first and foremost a symbol of setting bold goals, reinforcing trust, and being able to show the reliability and performance capabilities of our solutions in a concrete way. It is good to shift into evenhighergearfromhereandhead towards new opportunities for puttingourbikestothetest”.
A top team of experienced electric vehicle specialists was assembled for the attempt to set the new Guinness WorldRecord.ThedriverswereSam Clarke and Sara Sloman, both wellknownandexperiencedinfluencersin theindustry.
The journey of the motorbike wastrackedwithaprofessionally precise tracking system, and its battery was not charged at any point during the trip. Vehicle management specialists Webfleet collected data for the recordbreaking performance, and the whole project was captured by the content production company GenerateMedia.
AA (The Automobile Association) was on hand to ensurethatthebikewasoperable throughout the drive. “It is noteworthy that, even after setting a new world record, the motorbikebatterystillhadabout seven percent of charge remaining,”Laukkanenexplains.
“That means that the bike could have gone on even further, but the team decided to stop to ensure the reliability of the data after driving for 16 hours and breakingtherecord.”
How you could make a difference by fostering teenagers
Fostering teenagers is incredibly rewarding for a whole host of reasons. Let’s learn more about how trauma impacts the teenage brain and bust some of the myths around caring for teenagers. Some people may at first feel intimidated by the thought of fostering teenagers. This is no surprise when our mainstream media often depicts teens as anti-social. Whether it’s the ASBO stereotype of the 1990’s to early 2010’s or the current narrative that teens are obsessed with their phones an unwilling to socialise, teenagers often get unfair treatment in our society. This is especially true for teenagers who have experience of being in the foster care system. Prejudice against care-experienced people has been widely documented, with several recent campaigns calling for care experience to be made a protected characteristic under UK law. The truth is, fostering teens can be an incredibly rewarding, fun and lifechanging experience. Currently, we have a UK-wide shortage of foster parents who are ready to open up their homes to teens. Because of this need, we’re always eager to encourage our foster parents to consider fostering a teenager, and we love to welcome more foster parents who are passionate about giving teenagers the chance to become part of a loving and accepting family.
Depp and Ringo Starr unite for Whitbread charity track
Johnny Depp and Ringo Starr are among the celebrities whohaveunitedtorecordaone-off songinaidof Fatima Whitbread'schildren'scharity.
The 63-year-old is known to the world as an Olympic medallist and former world champion javelin thrower despite being abandoned as a baby. Whitbread, from Ingatestone in Essex, recently set up a charity aimed at improvingthelivesofchildrenlivingincare.
Hollywood actor Depp plays guitar for the anthem, rock iconPeteTownsendisonbassandWhitbreadaddedsome vocals. Zak Starkey is on percussion along with his dad, BeatlesdrummerStarr.
Happy Mondays singer Shaun Ryder and actress Samantha Morton also added vocals. "It's an incredible line-up, unlike anything we've seen for many years," said Whitbread.
ThetrackiscalledTakeMyHand,external-inaidof the Fatima'sUKCampaigncharity-andwillbeplayedather One Voice Summit at Guildhall in London. Whitbread says the event, on 23-24 April, will bring together people with experience of care, politicians and service leaders to helpimproveoutcomes.
The song is available for download via online music platforms.Shesaidtheideaforthetracksnowballedafter she and Ryder got to know one another on the 2023 editionof‘I'maCelebrity...GetMeOutOfHere!’
"I am using my lived experience and my Olympic title to bringthingstogether,"sheexplained.
"All of them were really happy to come on board and incredibly supportive of what I'm trying to do, highlighting unacceptable outcomes for children in care."
Thetrackwaswrittenby21-year-oldHarrisonJames,who said he was inspired by his own parents who came from difficultbackgroundsandhadsupportedchildrenincare. Heonlyhadthreedaystowritethesong.InMarch2024, there were 83,630 children in care in England, external, accordingtogovernmentstatistics.
The charity Become says care-experienced young people areninetimesmorelikelytofacehomelessnessthanother youngpeople.Whitbreadadded:"Childrenareourfuture; if wecaninvestinthemfromaveryyoungageitwillhelp toshapewhoandwhattheybecomeinsociety."
"It's all about building happier and healthier tomorrows andstrongercommunitiesandputtingtheseyoungpeople on an unstoppable path of reaching their goals and realisingtheirdreams."
Johnny
ProColombia honoured with 2025 Aquila Whalesong Destination Award for Excellence in People Investment
The Aquila Centre for Cruise Excellence has awarded ProColombia the 2025 Whalesong DestinationAwardforExcellencein People Investment, which was recentlypresentedatSeatradeCruise Global in Miami. The award honours ProColombia’s exceptional leadership and commitment to capacity building and sustainable growth across Colombia’s cruise destinations. “The Aquila Whalesong Award represents our deep appreciation for organizations thatinvestnotonlyininfrastructure ormarketingbutinthehumanspirit behind tourism,” said Beth Hatt, FounderofAquilaCentreforCruise Excellence.
Ad“ProColombia exemplifies this ethos, combining collaboration, innovation and purposetoensurelong-lastingbenefitsfor both travellers and the communities that welcome them.” Through strategic partnerships,destinationtrainingprograms, and meaningful engagement with local stakeholders, ProColombia has consistently demonstrated a people-first approach to tourismdevelopment. Aquilahasbeenpartoftheinvestmentsin people made by ProColombia for over a decadeandtheircommitmenthasempowered communities,strengthenedindustryties,and elevated Colombia’s global standing as a cruisedestination.Acceptingtheawardon behalf of ProColombia, U.S. Executive DirectorMaríaCamilaCastellanosreflected on this milestone achievement: “We are honoured to receive the Whalesong Destination Award from Aquila and the Florida-CaribbeanCruiseAssociation,which celebratesnotjustamilestone,butajourney oftransformation.
“Thisawardisatestamenttoover twodecadesof dedicationbyour communities, port cities and tourismleaders,whohaveworked tirelesslytomakeColombia–The CountryofBeauty–ashiningstar on the global cruise map. With record-breakingvisitornumbersand new destinations on the rise, we look forward to an even more dynamicfutureforcruisetourismin ourcountry.”
Symbolizedbythewhaletail,the Whalesong Award represents strength, wisdom and harmony. These qualities mirror ProColombia’ssteadfastpursuitof destination excellence and collaborativeapproachtobuilding sustainable and resilient cruise destinations.
This recognition sets a new benchmark for future honourees andunderscoresthecriticalroleof investinginpeopletoshapethriving tourismhubs.Withover35yearsof experience, the Aquila Centre for Cruise Excellence is a trusted partnerininternationaltourismand trainingdevelopment. Astheexclusivetrainingpartnerof the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association(FCCA),Aquilaoffers tailored strategies for destinations, tour operators, guides and other front-line professionals worldwide, focusing on values-driven partnershipsforlong-termsuccess. Aquila is the leading destination training provider for the global cruiseindustry.
They offer training strategiesforinternational destinations, tour companies,tourguides, andfront-lineoperators.
With over 35 years’ experienceinthecruise industry, Aquila is committed to cruise destinationsuccessthrough values-driven partnership with cruise lines and destinations.
Exploring the Dalmatian coast on Sail Croatia's new Luxury Hike Cruise
Following the successful launch of two Luxury Hike Cruise itineraries for Summer 2025, Sail Croatia has added a third itineraryintothemixforSummer2026,with the addition of a new Dubrovnik to Split LuxuryHikeCruise.
Blending adventure with luxury, this itinerary takes you on a variety of hiking trails across diverse terrains, showcasing spectacularcoastalvistasandpanoramicsea views, all while enjoying the comfort of staying on a luxury small ship. The Dubrovnik to Split itinerary cruises north from Dubrovnik, offering a scenic journey that starts with an overnight stay in Sipan, followed by a day exploring Mljet, one of Croatia'sgreenestislands.
Other highlights include the islands of Korcula, Hvar and Brac, as well as the charming mainland destinations of Gradac and Split where the cruise ends. All three Luxury Hike Cruise itineraries operate exclusively on Salve di Mare, one of the newest ships in the Sail Croatia fleet, featuringajacuzzi,multiplesundeckareas, a swim platform and generous spaces to relax.
Withamaximumcapacityof just 40 guests, she offers an intimate atmosphere, perfect for socialising and making new friends. A choice of six departures is on offer sailing the new Dubrovnik to Split itinerary -basedontwosharing.
All Hike Cruises are led by a professional guide who will plan daily excursions that allow guests to enjoy themselves while exploring the native flora, fauna and natural beauty of Dalmatia. Includedinthecruiseisbreakfast and lunch daily, Nature Park entrance, wifi and the services of anexperiencedhikingguide.
Flights are not included but offered by a choice of airlines fromtheUK.
In conversation with Dee Burrowes.
Wings of Change - A Most Noteworthy Assembly.
In early April, aviation leadersfromacrosstheglobe descendedupontheCayman Islands for the CAPA Aviation Summit, a gatheringthatwasasmuch aboutpeopleasitwasabout planes.
The Cayman Islands department of tourism in partnership with CAPA –CentreforAviation,proudly hosted the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Americas 2025 alongside the Global Airport Development (GAD) Americas Summit from3rdto4thApril2025. Thisdistinguishedgathering brought together leading figuresfromtheglobaland regionalaviationsectorsto examine prevailing trends and deliberate on the strategic challenges influencing the future of airlines, airports and the broader travel industry. Againstthelushbackdrop of the Caribbean, the summitinvitedconversation, connection, and the recalibrationofprioritiesin apost-pandemicworld.
Inaworldeagertotakeoff again, the CAPA Aviation Summit reminded us that altitudemeanslittlewithout grounding.Andsometimes, thesmallestislandscanleave thebiggestimpressions.The location alone, very sunsoaked, sea-breezy, and steeped in charm set a disarmingtone.Itreminded usthataviationisn'tjusta business of numbers and routes,butonethatshapes lives, economies and communities. The Cayman Islands, with their small footprint and big aspirations, played a powerfulhost.
One might say, it was a masterclass in convening the crèmedelacrèmeof global aviation, a thoroughly invigorating affair, where intellectmetislandhospitality in the most seamless of unions.Therewasapalpable senseof optimismintheair —notmerelyforthefutureof theaviationsector,butforthe potential of collaboration acrossborders,industries,and disciplines. Conversations flowed as easily as the Caribbean breeze, and connectionswereformedthat are bound to shape the sector'strajectoryfor yearstocome.
Throughoutthesummit,there wasanemphasisonrecovery, notjustintheeconomicsense, butinthehumanone.Airline executives and policymakers sat alongside students, local officialsandairportworkers. They discussed resilience, sustainabilityandtherealcost ofprogress.
Panelstookontoughtopics withsurprisingcandour.The aviation industry has long been an easy target in environmental debates and CAPA didn’t shy away from thatscrutiny.Thediscussions led on carbon-neutral goals andtheslowmarchtowarda sustainable aviation industry. Thetonewasrealistic,butthe resolvewasfirm.
A reminder that the aviationindustryislooking foraseatatthetableanda runway that leads to opportunity. More than strategy or profit, the summit celebrated the humansbehindthehigh-vis jackets,controltowersand flight decks. A moving session on aviation workforce wellbeing saw testimoniesfromstaffwho navigatedfurloughs,stress, and uncertainty through thepandemic.
TheCaymanIslandsused thesummitasastageto champion regional aviation. With tourism forming the backbone of its economy, the country madeacompellingcasefor better intra-island and international air links. Minister of Tourism and Ports, Hon. Kenneth Bryan,articulatedthiswith clarity:"Forus,aviationis notaluxury,itislife.
“It connects us to trade, family, and identity." He further stated: “Today, we'renotmerelyconveying aconference,howeverwe're creatingathinktankofthe most brilliant minds in aviation.Whoarepoisedto chart the future of our travel across the hemisphere and beyond. The Cayman Islands understands the transformative power of aviation”.
His call was echoed by other island nations, all united by a desire to remainvisible,viableand valuedinaglobalsystem often built around mega hubs. This globally recognised event brought together aviation leaders, policy makers, and regional stakeholders for candid discussions about thefutureofairtravelina rapidly changing world thatisincreasinglyshaped by resilience, innovation and the urgent call for regionalcollaboration.At itscore,thesummitwasn’t just about airplanes or airports, it was about people.
The lifeblood of tourism economies,likeCayman’s, flowsthroughitsaviation arteries.Andthisyear,the discussions were refreshingly honest, passionate, and solution driven. The event's commitment to sustainability and futurefocuseddialoguewasmost commendable. In an era where climate considerations are not merely advisable but imperative, the discourse on greener aviation strategies and decarbonisation initiatives struck a resonant chord withmany.
TheCaribbean,withits own unique vulnerabilities and aspirations, proved a poignantsettingforsuch dialogue. As the event drew to a close, there wasadistinctsensethat theconversationsbegun herewouldnotendhere. Rather,theywouldecho in boardrooms, government halls, and regional alliances — shaping policy, influencingstrategy,and redefininghowwethink abouttheskiesweshare.
The strategic expansion announcementbyDelta Air Lines to introduce direct service from Detroit (DTW) to the CaymanIslands(GCM) starting in December 2025 revealed at the CAPAAviationSummit. Thismarksasignificant development for both the airline and the CaymanIslands’tourism sector. Delta’s decision to add this route aligns withitsbroaderstrategy of expanding service to leisure-focusedandhighdemand destinations in theCaribbean.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport(DTW)servesasa major Delta hub and this new route will provide Midwestern travellers with more convenient access to the Cayman Islands, reducing the need for connections in Atlanta or Miami. There was a quiet consensus: aviation is evolving.Buttheevolution must be mindful, inclusive androotedincareforpeople andplanetalike.Technology willplayitspartbutsowill empathy, equity and environmentalstewardship.
Walking away from the beautifullylinedcorridorsof the Indigo Cayman, delegatesleftnotjustwith businesscontactsbutwitha renewedsenseofduty.Not onlytoflyhigher,buttodo so with greater humanity. The summit left attendees with a renewed sense of purpose.It’snotjustabout flyingmore.
It’s about flying smarter, kinderandforallofus.
The CAPA event was an absolutetriumph,abrilliant fusion of razor-sharp insight,spiriteddebateand naturally, the Cayman Islands effortless charm. Between the invigorating discussions and the rather civiliseddosesofsunshine,it struckthatrarebalanceof substance and sophistication. One leaves with both intellect and spiritsthoroughlyrefreshed untilthenextsummit.
Universities unite for Varsity Sports Festival rematch
WolverhamptonwelcomedbacktheVarsity Sport Festival in collaboration with University College Birmingham and BirminghamNewmanUniversity.
Buildingonthesuccessoflastyear’sVarsity, this year’s festival, which took place at Walsall Campus earlier this month, experienced an impressive turnout showcasing a 29% increase in student participation. Students from all three universities came together to celebrate the spiritofsportsmanshipandcompetition.
A multitude of activities were offered, includingmixedvolleyball,men’sbasketball andtheexcitingnewadditionsof pickleball andcheerleading.Theeventdeliveredonits promiseof anaction-packeddayfilledwith friendlyrivalriesandsharedcamaraderie.
Natalie Gould, Sport Performance and Development Manager, at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “Our aim with the event this year was to increase the student engagement and develop it into being a student led event which we were able to achieve with the 31 students on placements across the three institutions.
“The atmosphere through the day was electric and the sense of belonging was palpable across students and staff which was matched by the fantastic weather and effort put in by all the staff who enabled the event to take place”. At the end of the festival, the University of Wolverhampton and University College Birmingham ended up tied with 15 points each, while BirminghamNewmanUniversitywasjustthreepoints behindwithatotalof 12points. As students departed, they carried with them memories of a day filled with excitement, new connectionsandsharedexperiences.
17-year-old Gout breaks
20-second
barrier to win 200m title
SSeventeen-year-old Gout Gout won the Australian 200m title and broke the 20-second barrierwithawind-assistedperformanceinPerth. Hecrossedthelinein19.84seconds-0.2secsfaster than his own national record, but it was not official record because of a wind speed of +2.2 metrespersecond.Goutbecamethesecondfastest under-20 200m sprinter in history in all conditions - behind American Erriyon Knighton, who clocked19.49attheLSUInvitationalin2022.
"Top speed is my gift. I used it, took off and I got sub-20, so I couldn't be happier," said Gout, who ranalegal20.21intheheats.
"I've been chasing getting that sub-10, focusing on my first 100, and that's exactly what I did. Feels pretty good." Gout won the Under-20 100m title on Friday in 9.99, also with a tailwind above the permittedlimit.
s"I've been chasing getting that sub-10, focusing on my first 100, and that's exactly what I did. Feels pretty good." Gout won the Under-20 100m title on Friday in 9.99,alsowithatailwindabovethepermittedlimit.
The son of Monica and Bona Gout, South Sudanese immigrants who have settled in Queensland, he shot to famewhenavideowasreleasedontheinternetshowing his incredible running pace. Gout Gout's talent was spotted when he was just 13-years-old by coach Di Sheppardwhoworkedathisschool.
He has regularly been compared to eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt, although he is yet to race at an Olympicshimself.ThenextOlympicGameswillbeheld in Los Angeles in the US, and many people think that GoutGoutwillbeaimingtocompetethere.
Speaking to news reporters, he said: "Hopefully we can qualify for the Tokyo World Championships. If not, I'll justfinishmyschoolinYear12.
Fancy a taste of The Tour
21 or The Route?
FAs the Tour de France charity partner in the UK, each year our teams of amateur riders gear up to take on The Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec ZWIFTjustrightaheadoftheprofessional race, with The Tour 21 and The Route, raisingvitalfundsforbloodcancerpatients acrosstheglobe.
Now'syourchancetobepartoftheteamas we launch our 4 and 2 stage packages, to giveyouATasteOfTheTour.Takeonthe ultimate cycling adventure with our 4-day Tour21Package,tacklingstages16,17,18, and 19 of the 2025 Tour de France, one weekaheadoftheprofessionalrace.
Ride in the tracks of legends as you cover 634km of breathtaking roads, including threeepicmountainstagesandthelegendary Mont Ventoux. You can join in on an unforgettable 2-stage cycling challenge, conquering Stages 1 & 2 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift just one day aheadoftheprofessionals!
Rideover189kmthroughthestunningroads of Bretagne, with 79km on Stage 1 and 110kmonStage2.You'llrideinthetracks oftheworld'sbest!
sTheRouteisproudtolaunchthe2StagePackage,givingpassionate cycliststhechancetoexperienceanunforgettabletwo-daychallengeby ridingStages1&2oftheTourdeFranceFemmesavecZwift,justone dayaheadoftheprofessionals.OnFriday25thJulyandSaturday26th July,riderswilltackle189kmthroughthestunning,undulatingroadsof Bretagne,France.
Thisexclusiveopportunityisperfectforanyonelookingtodiptheirtoe intotheworldofpro-stagecycling,whilealsomakingapowerfulimpact inthefightagainstbloodcancer.You’llrideshoulder-to-shoulderwith TheRouteteam,whoaretakingonall9stages,inafullysupported, immersiveteamenvironment.
All participants will also be raising vital funds for Cure Leukaemia, contributingtotheATICUSNetworkandprovidinghopetochildren andfamiliesbattlingbloodcancer.
EventItinerary:
Thursday24thJuly–ArrivalinFrance,meetandprepwithThe Routeteam
Friday25thJuly–RideStage1(79km)
Saturday26thJuly–RideStage2(110km)
Sunday27thJuly–Departure(riderstomaketheirownreturntravel arrangements)
What’sIncludedintheentryfee:
3nights’accommodation
TravelfromtheUKtoFranceontheRouteteambus
Alllocaltransportduringthetrip
Allmeals(breakfast,lunch,dinner)
SantiniOfficialRouteKit: On-ridefoodandnutrition
Mechanicalandsportstherapistsupport
GuidedroutesledbyexperiencedRideCaptains
LeBron James becomes first male athlete to be a Ken doll
LeBronJames,oneofthemosticonicfiguresinmodernsports,hasmadehistoryonce again-thistimeinthetoyaisle.
MattelhasannouncedthereleaseofanewBarbieinMrJames'likeness,makinghim thefirstprofessionalmaleathletetobehonouredasaKendoll."Weareexcitedto bringfansanewpresentationofKen,"saidKristaBerger,Mattel'sseniorvice presidentofBarbie.
Shesaidthedollcelebrates"LeBronasarolemodel,"hisabilityasaniconto transcendcultureandseta"positiveexampleforthenextgeneration."
ThedollfeaturestheLosAngelesLakersbasketballplayerinhispre-gamefashion andreflectshisheight-it'saninchtallerthanthestandardKendoll.Inreality,the athleteis6ft9intall.
ThenewdollcomesasthecompanyisfacingfinancialuncertaintyamidPresident DonaldTrump'sescalatingtradewarwithChina,wherejustunder40%ofMattel's productionisbased.OnWednesdayheannouncedthattariffsongoodsfromChina wouldincreaseto125%-accusingBeijingofa"lackofrespect"afteritretaliatedand saiditwouldimposetariffsof84%onUSimports.
Mattelhassaiditmayhavetoincreasepricesandpossiblyimplementchangestoits supplychain.ConsumerandbusinessgroupsintheUShavewarnedthatthetariffs maydisruptsupplychainsandleadtohigherprices.
Imagesource,Mattel
ThenewKendolldoesn'tshowtheathleteinhisbasketballuniform.Instead,he's dressedinavarsityjacketadornedwith"LJ"onthefront.
ItincludesanOhiopatchandacrownpatchononesleeveandthenumber23-his basketballjerseynumber-ontheother.Ontheback,"LeBron"isboldlyprintedalong withthephrase,"JustakidfromAkron"-theOhiocitywherehewasborn. Underthejacket,thedollwearsashirtthatreads"WeAreFamily,"anodtothestar's foundation.Thedollincludesaccessorieslikeabasketball,headphonesandsneakers. LeBronJamesfirstplayertosurpass50000points 'Purejoy'-Jamesrevitalisedbyplayingalongsideson
In a promotional video released by Mattel, Mr James reactedtoseethedollforthefirsttime."Oh,hedope!"he saysashe'sgiventhefigurine."That'ssocool!"
Ashetoyedwiththedoll'saccessories,hejokedtheLeBron Kendoll"mighthavetodoalittlelifting,legsarelooking skinny".
The move is a significant moment for the 65-year-old Barbiebrand,whichhasmadeapushinrecentyearsto diversify its dolls and reflect a broader range of careers, bodytypesandbackgrounds.
Though Barbie has previously honoured athletes like SerenaWilliams,NaomiOsaka,andMeganRapinoe,Mr James is the first male sports figure - and the first male figure not from the entertainment industry - to join the lineup.
EvenwithfourNBAtitles,twoOlympicgoldmedals,anda scoringrecordtohisname,MrJamessayshisnewtitleof "Kenbassador" hits differently—because it's about more thanbasketball.
"It's an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instill confidence, inspire dreams, and showkidsthatthey,too,canachievegreatness."
