Kaleidoscope

THANK YOU TO OUR SACCO SPONSORS PAST & PRESENT

Pictures with our supporters

SACCO Trustees with members of the Royal Society of Arts, RSA

SACCO Founder, Veronica Fritzon receiving an award from Councillor Ruth Dombey

Former Mayor of Sutton Trisha Fivey

Patron Patrick Hutchinson & Cllr Ruth Dombey

SACCO Members with Trisha Fivey and Guest Speaker David Neita

SACCO members with Merton Mayor Joan Henry and her deputy Agatha Mary Akyigyina.

Editors Corner

Welcome to our Summer Edition of Kaleidoscope!

For this special Windrush 75 Edition, we feature interviews with local volunteers and personalities such as Founder and Author Tony Fairweather, Artist Hew Locke and our very own Ann Beach.

In keeping with tradition, we have fun activities, poems, recipes, and insightful articles. In other words, lots to keep you engaged.

We have a variety of planned events and programmes that you can share with your network and get involved in. This information is also available on our website at www.sacco.org.uk and you can also find us on social media.

Self-care is really important to us at SACCO and so we have introduced some new activities such as chair exercises, self-management, and a sport that is just beginning to take off called Pickleball. Go on, be brave and get active with one of our classes. For more information, please contact the SACCO office.

4 SACCO Windrush 75 Events

6 Message from the Chair Cleo Douglas

8 Interview with Tony Fairweather

11 SACCO Friendship Friday Events & Dates

12 Introducing Africa Day Celebrations

14 Re-Connecting with African Mythology & Folk-tales

16 Meet Ann Beach

17 What Is Pickleball?

18 Artist, Hew Locke at Brixton Library

20 Michelle Gutherie’s Journey Into Becoming A Counsellor

22 Interview with Marcia Rochester From Sutton Night Watch

24 A Tribute to Karl Ingvhal Fritzon

26 Poetry & Other Reflections

32 Beauty & Personal Care

34 Pamper Indulge & Give

36 Recipes

A huge thanks to all who volunteer and support SACCO in one way or the other. We are always looking for volunteers so do keep in touch. Please keep spreading the word about us and we look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

37 Word Search

38 Crossword

39 SACCO SelfManagement Course

“We say farewell and thank you to Councillor Tricia Fivey for supporting SACCO during her term as Mayor of Sutton.”

Grace Abamba Trustee

DON’T FORGET TO PUT THESE DATES INTO YOUR DIARY

WINDRUSH GENERATION MARKET

Thursday 22nd June 2023

As well as a Black Owned Business Market we will be having other activities for all of the family during the course of the day.

Throughout the day we will have time set aside for all ages to be entertained, whilst taking the opportunity to see what our traders have to offer.

Tell a friend to tell a friend, and don’t forget to come!

As well as a market we will be having other activities for all the family during the course of the day

WINDRUSH FRIENDSHIP

Friday 23rd June 2023

This Friendship Friday we are truly honoured to have Mr Martin Forde KC to come and speak to us and share his insights.

Our final Windrush event for adults and chilren alike promises to be a day of fun and excitment Don't Forget to put a these dates in your diary,

The Friendship Friday Event will see us continuing our Windrush Celebration. We are truly honoured to have Mr Martin Forde KCas our special guest. Come and celebrate our achievements with music, entertainment and a good meal.

Please let us know in advance if you are planning to attend by contacting info@sacco.org.uk

WINDRUSH Funday

Saturday 24th June 2023

Truly a day out for all of the family. We will have guest speakers and local dignitaries.

We are truly honoured to have as our Keynote speaker Martin Forde KC to come and speak about his insights on life and the windrush generation. Best of all, there will be stalls, cake, food and activities for adults and children too!

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR CLEO DOUGLAS

Dear Reader

As we pause to remember and acknowledge the 75th Anniversary of the arrival of the HMS Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks on 22nd June 1948, we are presented with an opportunity to celebrate the immense impact of the Windrush Generation of people who changed the demographic landscape of Britain. It is only fitting that we recognize and honour the resilience, hard work, and determination of those who came to Britain in 1948, as well as those who have followed in their footsteps since, for without them, many of us would not be here today.

These individuals who were invited by the British Government were instrumental in rebuilding post-war Britain, working in various industries such as healthcare, transport, and manufacturing. Their contributions were vital in the development of the UK’s economy and society, yet they faced numerous challenges and discrimination upon arrival and during their time in the country.

A night out enjoyed by members of the Bristol West Indies Cricket Club.

Despite these challenges, the Windrush Generation persevered and paved the way for future generations of immigrants to the UK. Their cultural and social impact cannot be overstated - their influence is evident in the food, music, business, fashion, language, and overall culture of the UK today. The Windrush Generation has also played a significant role in shaping the country’s political landscape, with many becoming involved in local and national politics. Sam Beaver King, MBE was a passenger on the Empire Windrush and was also the first black Mayor of Southwark in 1983.

This momentous occasion is especially poignant in light of the events of this past year, with the 30th Anniversary of the brutal killing of Stephen Lawrence and the Coronation of King Charles III. All three events are intertwined in some way, with the Lawrence family being of Jamaican descent, King Charles being the head of the Commonwealth which Jamaica (and many other Caribbean countries) is still a part of, and the HMS Empire Windrush having carried 800 passengers from the Caribbean, 539 of whom were from Jamaica.

However, the Windrush Scandal of 2018 highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the descendants of this generation, who have struggled to prove their right to remain in the UK and have faced deportation despite having lived in the country for decades. It is important to acknowledge the legacy of the Windrush Generation and work towards ensuring that their contributions are recognised and celebrated, and that their descendants are treated fairly and justly.

To commemorate this milestone, we have organized two key events: a Black Owned Business Market at St Nicholas Centre Sutton on Thursday 22nd June, and our annual Windrush Funday at Hill House on 24th June. We invite you to join us at both events, and to share in the amazing accomplishments that the Windrush Generation have made for our country.

Welcome to the Windrush 75 Edition of Kaleidoscope, and we thank you for taking the time to recognize and honour this momentous occasion.

TONY FAIRWEATHER

by Deborah Bell

Born in Clapham, South London to Jamaican parents, Tony Fairweather is an Author, the Founder and Curator of the Windrush Collection and the Windrush artefacts, associated with the Windrush Generation

If the 75th anniversary of the Windrush arrival wasn’t upon us, would you have written a book about this British historical event?

Yes, I started the book 4 years ago.

Do you think the Windrush has any significance to 2nd generation British children?

It is your history; this is the back story of your Grandma and Granddad The story some of the elders will not tell you.

I loved the novel angle your story took. Why did you decide to take this approach?

I interviewed 12 elders, two were on the Windrush Empire ship so I mixed their story with my imagination.

There is debate in some quarters about the reasons our grandparents and parents came to the UK. Not all were invited but came of their own accord.

Do you think this has contributed to the current lack of empathy regarding the Windrush Scandal, that is emigration back to the Caribbean?

The English came to the Caribbean and Africa uninvited and took what they wanted from our land and our people. The English need to payback what they stole from us. The King of England invited the Caribbean people to come to the ‘motherland’, then when England took all they

could from our people they told them to get out. Let us now talk about empathy!

Hope Road are the publishers. How and why did this come about as they are not UK based?

They are UK based; the publishing house is owned by a Jamaican woman, Rosemarie Hudson. We met in the publishing world years ago; I wanted my book to be published by a black publishing house.

Have you got a favourite Black British author?

Many... Malorie Blackman, Dorothy Koomson, Alex Wheatle, Patience Agbabi.

Have you got a soft spot for a particular character in the book?

Chef and Lucretia, Norma.

Have you got a favourite African or Caribbean writer or piece of writing?

Jean Binta Breeze , J. R. Rogers, the autobiography of Malcolm X.

I’ve known you for decades yet had no idea you were dyslexic. How did you address the writing process? I know this involved going to Tobago.

I have been writing all my life, with spell check on my laptop you can do anything. Tobago is where I go to write.

Have you any tips for budding book writers who wish to be published?

One, write from the heart. Two, don’t tell anyone you’re writing a book and three, feel the book!

Is there going to be a sequel?

Yes... I am enjoying coming back to my Windrush people!

What has the feedback been from elders (such as your mother) who have read it?

Mother lovers the book (she would ha! ha!) the elders have told me ‘I have told their story’.

What do you think is the future for the descendants of the Windrush Generation in the UK?

A good future, it up to us to look out for our descendants.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I am having a good time; I love the book world and enjoy writing.

Tony Fairweather’s book ‘Twenty-Eight Pounds Ten Shillings: A Windrush Story’ tells several stories centred on the journey from various Caribbean islands undertaken by those who were going to the aid of the Mother Country in 1948. It is available from Amazon, World Books & all good bookshops!

DESCENDENTS OF THE WINDRUSH GENERATION

Young Authors Easa Manning and Mya Douglas with Councillor Param Nandha at a SACCO book signing

Friendship Fridays 2023 Dates All Welcome

June - 9th and 23rd

July - 7th and 21st

August - 11th and 25th

September - 8th and 22nd

October - 6th and 20th

November - 10th and 24th

Between 14:30 – 17:30

Sutton Lodge Day Centre, 139 Brighton Road, Sutton SM2 5SW

From Sutton Station Buses number 280 & 80 drop you outside

A chance to meet and form friendships with other members of the local community and enjoy a meal which will be served during the afternoon.

Optional activities include gentle keep fit, table games and beginners IT. £7.00 contribution per session - food, tea, coffee and activities all included in this price.

For catering purposes, please let us know your attendance in advance. For any further information contact Ann on 07905545972

All members of the community welcome. We aim to help people of African and Caribbean heritage of all ages to participate more fully in the local community. We also provide leisure and enrichment activities for our local area from an African and Caribbean perspective: these Include mentoring, exhibitions, cooking, events, educational trips and our quarterly magazine Kaleidoscope.

SACCO is a registered charity working in Sutton, Croydon and Merton. We are always grateful for donations to our initiative.

Charity Contact: 21 Alexandra Gardens, Stanley Road, Carshalton Surrey SM5 4LJ

Website: www.sacco.org.uk Email: info@sacco.org Telephone: 0203 302 9543

Charity Number: 1182079

Introducing Africa Day Celebrations

Africa Day is marked on 25th May every year. It was established in 1963 to commemorate Africa’s Independence, Freedom and Liberation Strife from colonial imperialists with the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, which became the African Union in 2001.

It involves celebrating Africa’s heritage and cultural impact on the world expressed through music, art, craft, advocacy, and fashion.

Each Africa Day has a theme for discussion within the context of economic development. Such themes are often woven around various sectoral issues like education, industrialisation, agriculture, or sometimes generic concerns such as development planning, unemployment, life expectancy, security or insecurity and governance. At the African Union’s 50th Anniversary celebrated in 2013, AU Commission Chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the first woman chair of the AU Commission (the AU’s administrative arm), spearheaded the launch of Agenda 2063, a long-term vision of where Africa should be in 50 years, great developments were seen. 2015’s was the “Year of Women’s Empowerment and Development towards Africa’s Agenda 2063″.

Although the organisation of the AU remains headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, its legislative arm, the Pan-African Parliament, is situated in Midrand, South Africa.

The theme of 2023 is “The Year of AFCFTA Acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Area Implementation”.

African Trailblazers Answers

1. Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Director General of the World Trade Organisation

2. Denis Mukwege – Nobel Peace Prize winner, Gynaecologist

3. Mo Ibrahim – Billionaire businessman

4. Vera Songwe - Banker

5. Moustapha Cisse – Head of Google, Artificial Intelligence, Ghana

6. Fatou Bensouda – Gambian High Commissioner, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court

Some African Trailblazers - Can you

name them?

Re-Connecting with African Mythology & Folk-tales

by Zain Gibson

Folk-tales are stories passed down orally through cultures and may be received as metaphorical tales by chiefs and elders to bring order to communities.

They can be read at face value, describing the ancient world as the similarities of stories across the diaspora surpass ancestral language and cultural differences. These tales reveal by nature that we have always been imaginative storytellers, their historical legacy impacting the way we see the world today.

When characters such as Anansi converse with animals, plotting and planning tricks, the reliability of the tale isn’t considered but a focus on following the journey the character takes becomes more important. The perception of African folk-tales and mythology often receives caution for exploring ideas of Gods and mystical beings.

These tropes are found in all forms of folk-tales, from Baba Yaga of Russia (who eats and cooks young children), Disney tales where Queens request the hearts of young girls (Snow White) and women fall in love with anthropomorphic animals (Beauty and the Beast). Exploring collisions of mysticism within daily reality are natural to the human experience. They are an enjoyable means to teach morality to children or example resourcefulness to survive life’s obstacles.

One interesting character of Caribbean folklore is Papa Bois from Trinidad and Tobago (whose name translates to Father of the Forest).

He appears as a man with deer legs and a leafy beard. His purpose is to protect the balance of the forest, shape-shifting into a full deer to observe hunters. His surveillance of the forest ensures a respect for the animals and environment. He’ll share the resources of

the forest for he knows the need to make an honest kill for food, but if you disrupt the natural order by killing beyond need, harming the land, he may punish you. He’ll lead you deep within the forest, making it unclear how to return home. His story is a reminder that within nature, balance must be kept. Papa Bois may be an eerie character, but underneath his frightening appearance a message that greed cannot exist within the natural world; nature must be respected can be understood.

Folk-tales as an oral tradition mean that access to certain stories or full understanding of them are limited to those communities which is why it is important to continue these stories within the diaspora. Through understanding how our ancestors told stories helps us shape an understanding of ourselves.

Language and storytelling are the roots that form a community and they have always been the way we connect with other people to express ourselves. Stories invite people to understand our view of the world and for others to question theirs. Through reconnecting with ancestral folk-tales, they become another step in puzzling our bond to African heritage, ensuring the mystical world view of our ancestors live on.

“Language and storytelling are the roots that form a community”

ANN BEACH

Where are your parents from?

My parents were natives of the then colony British Guiana, on the continent of South America now Guyana since 1966

Where did you grow up?

I was born in British Guiana and grew up there till age 11 when I came to England. Since emigrating to UK, I have always lived in Carshalton, Surrey.

What is your favourite main meal and dessert?

My favourite main meal is Guyanese Chicken Curry & Roti. Dessert would have to be Fruits & Lemon Sponge.

Do you enjoy any hobbies?

Yes, primarily walking with Ramblers, Reading mostly mysteries/crime/ forensics. Cake making & decorating.

Name one thing in your bucket list you would like to tick off this year.

Declutter my house and pursue looking for “my bungalow”.

What do you enjoy most about your volunteer work for SACCO?

Meeting with such a variety of persons with fascinating backgrounds. Bringing back memories of earlier lives. Being hands on with help, friendliness & solutions. you?

Very mixed feelings. An anniversary of 75 years when Caribbean and other colonial persons arrived in large numbers in the UK. A celebration of achievements, memories of home. I have never given much thought to the generation; it is only in the last few years that I learnt of the relevance. I am still searching my thoughts on this. I do enjoy the celebrations though.

SACCO Member & Volunteer.

What is Pickleball? Pickleball?

Pickleball is a sport where two or four players use paddles to hit a ball back and forth.

The sport combines elements from:

• Ping-pong - The paddle is solid and larger than a Table Tennis Bat.

• Tennis - The Net that resembles a modified Tennis Net.

• Badminton - It uses a Badminton size cCurt and a Net that resembles a modified Tennis nNt.

You can play Pickleball indoors or outdoors. A Pickleball is a plastic ball with holes. There are Pickleball special serving rules to observe.

Pickleball is considered a less intense sport to play than tennis and is easier on the shoulder, and uses a smaller court of 20 by 44 feet for both single and double games.

This makes for less aggressive movements, resulting in an excellent game for mature adults, those who are differently-abled, and individuals looking for a more simple form of exercise that’s fun for the whole family.

ARTIST HEW LOCK at Brixton Library

by Deborah Bell

Hew Locke gave us a wonderful presentation at Brixton Library on 15th March 2023 about “The Creative Process.” It was a full house as he humorously gave us a synopsis of his work and life.

Here are the headlines:

1. Hew Locke was born in Guyana and lives in Brixton.

2. He sculptures and sometimes features in his own works of art, using photography. He uses cardboard and paper-mache in much of his gigantic installations.

3. He first studied at Falmouth College of Art (he was fooled by the palm trees) and gained a Masters qualification at the Royal College of Art in London.

4. When he first came to London in the 1990s, he lived in a squat which is now a “fancy block of flats.”

5. His artwork is very personal to him - he uses his work to turn the spotlight back on British European society with all its foibles and preoccupation about race, migration and what it means to be British. He is very much aware of being considered an “export” and “other” because of his immigrant status.

6. His most recent work is the huge installation at the Tate Britainfeaturing a procession of 60 figures created during Lockdown. It was eventually open to the public in 2022 to huge interest and acclaim. This was of some relief to him.

7. He discussed his art on reflecting the Transatlantic slave trade, Queen Victoria, Benin Bronzes, Colston, Churchill, Cromwell, The Armada, The Santa Maria, Empire Windrush and Refugees. However, he said that “I can’t live in misery” as was witnessed by his whimsical and dry delivery.

8. A book about Hew’s career is currently in production - I cannot wait !

topped Dumplings, Jerk Chicken Drumsticks, Vegetable Fritters, Mini Cocktail Beef Patties, Bun & Cheese. Saturday Soup (meat and vegan options).

During the workshops we will share stories of our lived experiences, dine on Caribbean cuisine and later dance to popular 1950’s Calypso & Minto, 1960’s Ska & Rocksteady, 1970’s Reggae & Lovers Rock,1980’s Hip-Hop& Dancehall, 1990’s Garage & Jungle. NEW DATE ADDED 15th July 2023

Venue to be confirmed

Contact: fiveasidetheatre@gmail.com

MY JOURNEY INTO BECOMING

A COUNSELLOR BY MICHELLE

GUTHERIE

Having taught in various Further Education colleges in London, I decided to take early retirement about 4 years ago. I felt that I did as much as I could in the educational sector and it was time for a change. I have always enjoyed a challenge and so 2 years ago I decided to embark upon training to become a Counsellor. My counselling journey began 30 years ago when I did an introductory course in counselling at my local college. On completion, life got in the way and I decided to do other things. In 2021, after doing my own research and looking at the various courses available, I decided to do a Diploma in Integrative Counselling at The Awareness Centre in Clapham. I understand that for some people the challenges that life brings may not be easy especially if you are from an ethnic minority. It can be difficult to reach out for support from someone who is going to be empathetic and nonjudgemental. I think it is important to offer a confidential space where clients can share their concerns and at the same time the client should feel a degree of empathy and congruence from the counsellor they are working with. I work with you to help you to become the person that you want to be. You can change your behaviour, increase happiness and become more confident. The training has really enabled me to become more self- aware and learn a lot more about myself as a person. It has been challenging at times. The course requires that I have counselling on a weekly basis. Initially I thought I don’t need counselling as I won’t have anything much to say. Nothing is further from the truth. I now think that everyone should invest in having a counsellor. If nothing else, it allows you time out to look at yourself. Coming from a Caribbean background, I was not really encouraged to express my emotions and talk about feelings as a child growing up. You tend to be seen but not heard. I am sure many of you reading this would probably share the same view. This is where counselling helps.

For many years I worked as a volunteer at the Royal Trinity Hospice in Clapham and know all too well how difficult it can be for family and friends to be with loved ones who are terminally ill. I have supported many families struggling with bereavement, grief and loss and this is an area that I have a particular interest in. I believe we live in a society where bereavement and loss is not really acknowledged and talked about to any great extent

particularly in the workplace. Furthermore, you are expected to just get on with things almost as if it didn’t happen. I have also worked in the mental health sector mainly with people from an African-Caribbean background so have an understanding of issues such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, I have experience working with people both in the UK and in Africa and this has helped me to understand the importance of communication across different cultures.

Over the last few months, I have worked with a variety of clients who bring a range of different issues to the fore including unemployment, divorce and homelessness. This has given me a greater appreciation of life and humanity. Some of the clients I work with have never had the opportunity to say how they are feeling and I feel privileged and humbled that a stranger can open up to me in the way that some of them do. It also gives me a sense of joy to know that individuals have had the courage to help themselves and have really benefited from the process. Currently I am gaining practical experience. working with clients at a NHS service in Wandsworth. I will complete the Diploma this summer.

Working towards becoming a counsellor has its challenges as sometimes I find it hard to switch off. Alongside seeing my counsellor every week, I attend regular supervision meetings where I get the opportunity to talk about the clients that I see in a confidential setting and gain valuable insight in the work that I am doing with them.

So how do I relax? In terms of self-care and relaxation, I enjoy doing aqua aerobics classes a few times a week at my local gym. I also love walking and being in nature. I am passionate about travel and over the years I have travelled extensively in the Caribbean, Africa and the Far East. If you have ever thought about training to become a counsellor, I would say go for it. You can use the training to work for different organisations or to set up your own private practice. Since the pandemic and the economic crisis that we find ourselves in, many people are beginning to seek help. Why not be the person that helps to change peoples’ lives?

I appreciate that for some people thinking about having counselling is not an easy step to take. If you feel that you could benefit from seeing a counsellor, you can contact The Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN) at www.baatn.org.uk. They are the home of the largest community of Counsellors and Psychotherapists of Black, African, Asian and Caribbean Heritage in the UK.

I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes from the philosopher Socrates: “The unexamined life is not worth living”. Know thyself.

INTERVIEW WITH MARCIA ROCHESTER

from Sutton Night Watch

by Deborah Bell

Marcia Rochester has been working as a volunteer at the Sutton Night watch Homeless Shelter in Wallington for the past 5 years.

How did you get involved with the Sutton Night watch?

The Shelter were asking for volunteers at the local church I attend which is Carshalton Baptist Church in Strawberry Lane. Since retirement, I’ve always wanted to remain active and wanted to become involved in a local capacity. Helping the homeless appealed to me because I don’t always simply want to give homeless individuals money. I question how helpful that action really is.

What is your role at the Shelter?

I am the Kitchen Manager. I love to cook!

I prepare breakfast and lunch and manage the volunteers (usually 2 others) who mainly help make the teas and coffees. The kitchen is my domain but is not built for industrial use so space is limited. The other volunteers mainly work in the dining room distributing the meals and they

stay onto 4 o’clock to serve dinner. I am at the Shelter very early on Mondays, Tuesdays and sometimes Fridays. I have to be there at 6.45 am to make sure that breakfast, in particular, is ready on time.

What are the meals timings at the Shelter?

8.00 am Breakfast (full English, hot drinks, toast); 2.00 pm Lunch; 4.006.00 pm Dinner

Where does the food come from?

Usually donated from supermarkets and local people. We also collect from Sutton Community Farm twice a week.

What other services are on offer?

Our clients can access social workers, welfare entitlements and courses. There is even a laundry service and showers on tap. They can also take food packages away with them.

What is the composition of visitors to the Shelter?

They are a mixture of ages. I would say that the ratio of men to women is 80:20. There are probably 1015 people of African & Caribbean heritage which attend the Shelter on a regular basis.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?

Well, we aren’t presently looking for more volunteers but donations of food, clothes, books are always welcomed. We also need people who can give their services such as barbers, health workers and tradesmen for the actual building. Any contribution of your time or skills will be appreciated by the clients, other volunteers and our director. Check out our website for more detailed information.

What makes a good volunteer?

You should be non-judgemental, considerate, kind, and caring.

For more information or to get involved, contact us:

WEBSITE: suttonnightwatch.com

TELEPHONE: 0208 669 9920

EMAIL: info@suttonnightwatch.com

In loving memory of

19th September 1947 - 18th April 2023

Husband to SACCO Founder Veronica Fritzon, Brother, Father, Grandfather and Friend. You will be sorely missed - Rest in perfect peace

On Friday 21st May 2023 family and friends gathered to celebrate the life and honour the memory of Ingvahl Fritzon the beloved husband of our founder member. Below you will find some of the sentiments delivered in his eulogy.

In the words of the great Bob Dylan “may you stay forever young”. Ingvahl was. As we honoured him, we reminisced on his kindness, sense of humour and the lasting impact on many of us here and abroad.

Resilience was a defining trait of Ingvahl growing up as he was born with a kidney defect that led doctors to predict that he would only live until his 50s. Despite his diagnosis, Ingvahl lived life to the fullest, travelling with his family to various events and countries. He played the guitar and cornet in the Salvation Army church events. This was a very enjoyable period in his life.

As a teenager, Ingvahl embraced life and sought out new experiences. He loved music and concerts, attending wild parties and riding his motorbike to explore his residential area, Karlashamn.

His love for music transcended genres, and included Jazz, Reggae, classical, heavy metal and pop music. Spending many Sunday afternoons listening to music at The Gun pub in Croydon.

In his professional life, he trained as a chemical engineer, but because he was unable to get a job in his field he began work at a Swedish firm in credit control. Later he went to work for the Battersea Volkswagen dealership where he was promoted to accounts manager. He was well regarded for his work ethic, fairness and talent.

Ingvahl met his first wife, Heather in Scotland. They return to Sweden and had Iliana and Sebastian. The marriage unraveled resulting in him returning to England to ease contact the children.

His journey bought him to Manchester, Yorkshire and Croydon where he met Veronica. Their relationship began as friends with our children all attending the same school and the after school club, Gingerbread. He ended up giving them a lift home and that was the start of a friendship that blossomed into a loving partnership that has lasted many years.

As they built a life together and raised both their own and several foster children. Ingvahl’s gentle, intelligent nature made him a wonderful father, offering stability and patience to each child, many of whom had challenging behaviours. He took joy in teaching them to drive, fixing their motorbikes and discussing cars and sports together. He spent quality time with each one.

Veronica said

Second marriages are known to be more difficult and ours also included 2 people with different cultural backgrounds, Ingvahl with 2 children and me with 3. I was an independent black woman with a lot of get up and go. He was good looking but shy. Our marriage was more than our differences of language, culture or race. As a husband, Ingvahl’s qualities of stability and reliability was really appreciated. He was very supportive of my charity work with SACCO, often answering the phones. In fact he was made a SACCO member/volunteer by default, always attending our function and events when he was able. Ingvahl would go with me every year to deliver the envelopes for Christian Aid. He also worked as a volunteer for the Lodge delivering Meals on Wheels. He loved sports.

In fact our main area of conflict was completing my tax return every year.

After a prolonged stay in hospital, Ingvahl’s life on Earth passed. Ingval, you have been so faithful, trusting and true. On his second to last day he said “ I love you and I tried my best” - he did not want to die .

I loved him and I am glad we had all our years together. I have chosen Ed Sheeran “thinking out loud” it is very representative of our time - Evergreen. The words of the song “when I can no longer walk” are poignant. He was “A man of integrity and loyalty” I will miss him tremendously.

“I would like to thank everyone for the kindness, support and companionship you have shown to me at this time.”

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. ‘” — Jeremiah 29:11.

Answering the Call

by Grace Abamba

They say fortune favours the brave That we were, indeed Answering the call of the mother country Accepted and loved we thought She came smiling and waving Full of youth yet regal

Promising hope of a brighter future

At last, Windrush docked in port With bright smiles and warm hearts Our soles connected with the sunless earth Is there anyone who is happy we came? With rising damp and dripping taps Hardened hearts, thankless labour

Still, at least I met you, didn’t I?

Graphic by David Udoh

Austin &

Hyacinth (A Warrior and his Queen)

by Deborah Bell

Austin and Hyacinth did not come on a liner.

Austin and Hyacinth did not beg a job - nor take one

Austin and Hyacinth came to the Motherland

Putting aside Anansi, Nanny and sunshine

Austin and Hyacinth worked solidly and consistently

Austin and Hyacinth trained and studied

Austin and Hyacinth blinked not to see violence

Austin and Hyacinth had backbone and resilience

They only looked ahead, dreamt a world for their children

Secure in their identity

Secure in their culture

Secure in their citizenship

For Queen and Country

They saw humanity in those that did not see it in them

They saved and toiled and sweated for ever

Bought their own home to the wonder of the natives

Who watched, gossiped and looked on in amazement

But they were only doing what they came to do

Achieving what fellow compatriots accomplished

Regardless of snow, hail and racial abuse

They stayed the course, grew old and grey

They did not go back but thought of it often

Dancing, singing and eating the Caribbean

Came over with their navy blue passports - Elizabeth on the cover

They thought they were British, Londoners & Jamaican

All 3 identities easily slid, coincided and collided

Built post war Britain but are no longer remembered nor wanted

But we love them cyan done and so do the ancestors

We can’t but not hail the Windrush Generation!

Austin and Hyacinth worked solidly and consistently

Austin and Hyacinth trained, re-trained and studied

Austin and Hyacinth pretended not to hear or see insults

Austin and Hyacinth had everlasting backbone and resilience

Austin and Hyacinth reveal African strength

Austin and Hyacinth display much benevolence

Austin and Hyacinth descend from the heroic enslaved

Austin and Hyacinth, deserve all the praise.

Still a Black Woman Talking

@poetry_by_pip

I didn’t speak a life force into you with full brown lips under a wide nose but, I could have

I didn’t fill my morning sunlit house with plants that breathe incense and sage while I’m frying plantain but I could have I don’t smell like cocoa butter or cold pressed Argon oil but, damn maybe I could have

I didn’t write this with metallic nails extended from bold gold rings passed down from the 90s but I could have

My hair doesn’t defy gravity and sit like a halo above my head but it could have Nothing to do with the little white girls in my little white magazines next to my MP3 player and Tamagotchi but it could have

Then again, being treated differently depending on my hair style hasn’t exhausted me yet but maybe it should have

It’s been a long time since I wore my Sunday best dress with white frilly ankle socks, but I used to Church and prayer never hit the same since Grandma died, so the hurt won’t ever undo

I don’t anticipate my Auntie’s house at Christmas with rice and peas on my plate either but I used to

I wished I was in Jamaica to see how the tropical storms in September resemble my mind every season, they really do

I had thunder in my eyes and walked like there wasn’t another woman I’d rather be, and I still do.

Photo by Jeffery Erhunse on Unsplash

Beauty & Personal Care

The Dyke & Dryden Story

by Graham Hedley

Dyke & Dryden - not so much a business, more a lifestyle! You may not have heard of Dyke & Dryden, but you will certainly have noticed the effect it has had on the Black hair care market.

Lincoln “Len” Dyke and Dudley Dryden, who were both from Jamaica, did not specialise in hair products at first: they ran market stalls in Tottenham and Dalston, selling cosmetics, reggae records, and anything else the immigrant community wanted. They were also prominent in the Standing Conference of West Indians, a body which was both an outlet for the expression of West Indian views and a venue for commercial, financial and social advice.

Tony Wade, from Montserrat, joined the company in 1968, and around the same time the major record labels started marketing reggae music, putting pressure on Dyke & Dryden’s record sales. The company began to specialise in hair and beauty products, a market which nobody else was supplying. Where a salon could obtain supplies for its African/Caribbean customers, the owners would promote the business by putting on events, which provided work for musicians, entertainers and models. The advertisements also helped a fledgling local press to flourish.

The cosmetics industry tended to ignore black women, and Dyke & Dryden was one of the few businesses supplying the market. It became one of the largest, if not the largest, businesses in Britain owned by West Indians. It was certainly the first black-owned business in Britain to be worth £1,000,000. It made Dyke, Dryden and Wade the first black millionaires in Britain.

How did it manage to do this? By doing nothing more than finding - and then filling - a gap in the market. Dyke & Dryden “began the business of catering to the Afro Hair Care in the UK because there was no one doing it and it was a much-needed service”, as Tony Wade put it. The annual Afro Hair and Beauty Show was started by the company, and carries on to this day.

The company became well-known: the first to receive the Black Business Community Award (1983), the first black-owned company to take part in a government-sponsored trade mission from the UK (1983), and the subject of an advertising campaign to encourage exporting from small and medium-sized companies (1995).

In 1987, Len Dyke and Dudley Dryden sold the company to Soft Sheen, a larger American competitor. After 30 years in the business, the founders wanted to retire. Tony Wade, who was younger than the others, stayed with the company. It did not flourish, and in 1995 he bought it back.

Dudley Dryden died in 2002, and Len Dyke in 2006. They and Tony Wade have been honoured with a black plaque on the site of a shop the company opened in West Green Road, Tottenham, in 1965. Rudi Page, who worked as a sales and marketing manager for the company, praised the three men, saying “Their story can inspire all young people… who feel, in their local communities, opportunities are

VEGAN-FRIENDLY MOISTURISING Lip Balm Recipe

by Grace Abamba

Make at Home / Makes 30g.

Ingredients and Equipment

• Small metal or plastic containers

• 5g Carnauba wax (or Candelilla wax)

• 5g Shea butter

• 20g Olive oil

• 5 drops Vitamin E

Instructions

• Add water to small saucepan

Optional

• 5 drops Food flavouring (peppermint and strawberry work well)

• Food colouring and edible glitter for cake.

• Add the Carnauba wax, Shea butter and Olive oil in a heat safe bowl such as Pyrex that can sit on the saucepan on a hob. Heat until the ingredients melt.

• Turn off the hob. Remove the bowl and place on a heat resistant surface.

• Add vitamin E and food flavouring, stir with a dry spoon

• Pour into your dry containers and allow to set.

Definitely do not share your lip balm and use within a month.

For free help getting out of debt, budgeting, making your money go further, or help finding a job, browse our services to find the right one for you.

https://capuk.org/

PAMPER INDULGE & GIVE

Charlene Charles is the founder of Pamper Indulge and Give, a charitable organization based in Croydon, dedicated to teaching essential life skills to children aged 5-11 years old. From Leicester, Charlene moved to the London Borough of Croydon over 15 years ago and has made it her home. She is a passionate advocate for children’s education and is committed to helping them be the best they can be.

Charlene’s inspiration for starting Pamper Indulge and Give came from her desire to equip children with skills that they can carry with them into adulthood. Her organization focuses on teaching children essential life skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving through interactive workshops and activities.

Charlene’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. She was recently honoured as one of Croydon’s Caribbean Influencers for 2023, with her portrait displayed in the Croydon Museum and going on to the National Portrait Gallery. Pamper Indulge and Give have also been awarded the Highly Commended Croydon Business Resilience Award in 2021 and 2022.

Through her charitable work, Charlene continues to inspire and make a positive impact in her community.

To learn more about Pamper Indulge and Give and the work they do, visit their website at www.pampapig.co.uk.

For the Cake

RECIPE: Ann’s Lemon Drizzle Cake

Serves16/20

• 8 oz soft margarine at room temp

• 8 oz caster sugar

• 4 medium eggs lightly beaten

• 10 oz self raising flour

• Grated zest of 2 lemons

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Drizzle

• 2 oz caster sugar

• 2 tbsp honey

• Balance juice of 2 lemons

• 1 tbsp lemon curd

Preheat oven to 180C/160 Fan / 4 Gas. (Please use your oven manufacturers instructions). Grease and line a baking tin 10.5ins x7ins (27cm x 17cm)

Put all cake ingredients into a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric whisk or mixer until pale and fluffy approx 2/3 mins. Do not over beat.

Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin, lightly level the top and bake in oven for approx 40 mins. I would advise after 35 mins check by inserting a tooth pick or skewer into cake which should come out clean, if not leave for further 5/ 10 mins and check again. The cake should be risen and golden brown. Take from oven and leave to cool in the tin for about 10 to15 mins before turning out onto the wire rack. Leave to cool. Meanwhile make the topping.

For Drizzle

Place lemon juice and sugar into a small saucepan and on a low heat on stove top and keep stirring to dissolve the sugar. Add honey and lemon curd keep stirring until all dissolved, leave to thicken without boiling.

Put the cold cake in your preferred dish/plate, then spoon the Drizzle completely over the cake and leave for a little while to be absorbed, decorate with lemon zest curls and strips before cutting into slices. Enjoy!

RECIPE: Nigerian Zobo (Hibiscus) Drink

Made from the dried calyces of the Hibiscus plant commonly called Zobo leaves, this drink is rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins. It serves as a good substitute to fruit drinks which are often very high in sugar and additives. Zobo is also called as Sobolo and Bissap across Africa. Caribbean recipes are called Sorrel.

Ingredients

• 5 litres water

• 2 pressed cups dried Zobo ‘leaves’ rinsed with cold water in a colander

• Peels of 2 Pineapples (rinsed thoroughly)

• ¼ cup dried Ginger

• 1 fistful Lemongrass

• 1 tbsp Cloves

• 1 Cinnamon Stick

• Sugar or Sweetener of choice (to taste)

Method

1. In a large pot bring your water to boil.

2. Once boiled add Pineapple peels, Lemongrass, Cloves, Ginger, Cinnamon. Turn the heat down and let them boil for 10 minutes.

3. Add the Zobo leaves and turn the heat off.

4. Keep the pot covered and leave the brew to cool down completely.

5. Decant the brew using a mesh sieve. Discard the pulp or if you are a gardener add it to your Compost

6. Add Sugar or Sweetener to taste.

7. Optional: add slices of Cucumber and Lime and leave to infuse in the drink. Refrigerate till very cold before serving

Make a Zobo sunrise cocktail.

To a glass add ice and Orange juice (and a dash of Tequila), pour the Zobo syrup from one point. You will see it go to the bottom of the glass and mostly stay there. Some of it will rise to blend with the orange juice to look like a beautiful sunrise!

Just a note of caution: Always consult your GP if you are on medication, pregnant or breast- feeding.

WINDRUSH CROSSWORD

Across

1 The Empire Windrush was name after a river in which English District Council (9)

2 & 3 First name of Home Office minister who cited “Hostile Environment” (7,3)

4 What was the original name of the Empire Windrush (2,5,4)

5 Where was the Empire Windrush built (7)

6 Who was the co-founder of the Windrush Foundation and also the first black Mayor of Southwark

Down

7 & 12

Name of former Home Security who resigned over the Windrush Scandal (5,4)

8 Where did the Empire Windrush first arrive in the UK (7)

9 & 10 Under which underground tube station did the Windrush migrants reside (7,6)

11 & 13 What was the name of the Prime Minister in 1948 (7,6)

WORD SEARCH

by Cleo Douglas

1. Cotswolds, 2&3. Theresa May, 4. MV Monte Rosa, 5. Germany, 6. Sam King MBE, 7&12. Amber Rudd 8. Tilbury, 9&10. Clapham Common, 11&13. Clement Atlee

FEELING ANXIOUS?

DEPRESSED? LONELY? STRUGGLING AND DON’T KNOW HOW TO MOVE FORWARD?

We are excited to hold self-management courses in Sutton in June. We will be holding 2 hour weekly meetings over 4 weeks in local community centres. Did you know that 1 in 4 people will experience poor mental health every year and our tutors all live with long term conditions.

TWO REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD SIGN UP...

1.

We will share LOTS of TIPS on how you can manage your condition better, how to get the most out of your GP appointments and how to talk to your friends and family about how you are feeling. You can also find out how you can create your own support groups after the course.

2. It is easy and FREE to JOIN and get the support you need. Your GP can refer you, or you can contact us directly.

WHAT TO DO NEXT...

1. Please refer either directly SACCO info@sacco.org.uk 020 3302 9543

2. Self Management 03333445840 or by email hello@selfmanagementuk.org

3. We will let you know the courses available and register you on the best one for you

4. or via the form https://forms.office.com/e/EA3J0Wkjck

Many of our course participants will keep in touch with each other over 10 years

Our tutors will be available before the sessions to talk you through how to get connected.

embarked, Through turbulent seas and boundless ship named Windrush sailed, hopes held high. From Caribbean shores, souls set adrift, Seeking new horizons, dreams to uplift. carried the spirit of resilience and grace, ancestral rhythm in each embrace. Oh, Windrush, vessel of heritage’s might, You bore the flame that burned so bright. Bound by the promise of a promised land, You carried dreams, like grains of sand. Across distant shores, a diaspora arose, Roots intertwined, a tapestry of prose. From homes left behind, a vibrant blend, United by a struggle, on hope we depend. Windrush, your passengers, proud and bold, Their stories of triumph, never grow old. Through hardships faced, they forged their Leaving an indelible mark on each passing Today, we honor the Windrush’s quest, A testament to courage, a journey blessed. For in their footsteps, we find our voice, A legacy cherished, a choice to rejoice. that whisper tales of yore, who bore,