40 The Black Maternity Experience With Tinuke Awe and Dr Stacey Bryan 49 Significantly Higher Dr Orinyayo Onabanjo perinatal depression 53
Real Stories
54 COVID-19: Life on the Frontline with Dr Don Burgess Dr Sarah Ann Filson and Dr Rochelle Pierre
Photographed by Amanda Akokhia
61 A Healthy Inspiration
Nyari Gondo on lessons learnt on her journey with the NHS
62 Men's Health
63 For the Boys : Prostate Cancer
Jonathan Maknjuola on the most common cancer in men
65 Beyond the Gains
Eight healthy eating tips from Tai Ibitoye for black men
IMAGE: JACOB LUND
72 Hair & Beauty
73 Separating Truth from Hype
Adeline Hair and Beauty salon provides insights on what not to put in afro hair
77 Trending: Brows
Adeline Hair and Beauty salon provides insights on what not to put in afro hair
79 Black Owned Subscription Boxes
Support for black owned businesses
83 Skin Deep
Dr Dami share how to treat acne prone skin
85 Food & Fitness
86 Nigerian Food, but Vegan Tomi Makanjuola shares her favourite Nigerian vegan recipes
89 And Baby Makes it Two Funmi Olatoye shares pregnancy workouts to cover all three trimesters
93 Sex & Love
94 Black Love Two couples on love and a life of partnership
97 Special Features
98 Financial Health Improving
100 The Billboard Just
THE TEAM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
OLAMIDE ISABELLA OLATOKUN
ADVISOR NKEM OKONKWO
CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHARITY OLUMESE IBHADON
ADVISOR EBO DADEY
BECAUSE REPRESENTATION MATTERS
About a year ago...
I missed out on a job opportunity for what I thought would be the perfect job at the perfect time Everything seemed in place to get the job The right contacts, the right experience and even a good amount of time off to prepare for the entrance exam and interview but I didn t get the job Naturally, I was quite upset but decided to apply again the year after (in my industry, you can only apply for certain jobs once a year)
This gave me a year off, what was I going to do?
Travel - no, COVID-19; get married and start a family - oh wait I’d probably need a partner first; stay at home and watch Netflix - absolutely One day, whilst watching one of those Netflix shows, an idea crossed my mind
Ten years ago I thought about starting a magazine or media publication. To be honest, I had lots of ideas My friends would joke that I always had so many random ideas, was involved in so many random societies and had my hands in so many random pots One year, in fact, I was gifted a handmade birthday card of a woman (me) with multiple arms each representing a random idea/society/concept that I had - don’t worry this was out of love we are a group rooted in sarcasm.
This idea, however, this one stuck
A few weeks before Lockdown 1 0, I presented the now infamous maternity report highlighting that black women were five times more likely to die in pregnancy and the period after in comparison to white women at work (perhaps here I should mention that I am also a junior doctor) Worse, that number had increased from previous reports Meaning that at the time of the previous reports people had been aware of, yet ignored, this number So much so that the number had gone up Five times That’s not a small number That number played over and over again in my mind
Lockdown 1 0 hit and after a long day working on the COVID-19 wards, I stopped to get some groceries at a large supermarket in London This was May 18th 2020, pre-George Floyd I walked past the magazine aisle and remembered the magazine concept. This happened from time to time, but this time it felt different Looking at the magazine aisle something was missing I looked again and stepped a bit closer I stepped back for a wider view and tilted my head to the side Was it just me or was there no single person of colour on any cover? After all, I am short-sighted at minus 7 00 in both eyes so maybe it was just me Nope, still nothing It wasn’t the bad eyesight It was that there was simply no person of colour on any magazine cover
Then something hit Why not start a black health magazine? In a world where black people are consistently underrepresented in the media, where in 2017 over 90% of popular magazine covers did not feature any person of colour. Yet just a few years prior Italian Vogue’s first “black issue with Edward Enninful as part of the team, was so popular that an extra 60,000 copies were printed A world where black people are consistently over represented in poor health statistics - four to five times more likely to die in pregnancy, four times more likely to be sectioned under the mental health act, twice as likely to be diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer and so the list continues Why not create a magazine that brings to light these statistics, to educate and allow black people to advocate for themselves
Our cover features the wonderful Candice Brathwaite A black woman that represents strength, beauty and femininity A black woman that has been vocal about her pregnancy and used her platform to bring issues facing black people to light A black woman that has not allowed societal “ norms ” to direct her pathway Candice is a true gem and inspiration to many in the black community and frankly there is no-one else I would have liked to grace our first front cover Our front cover image was beautifully shot by Amanda Akokhia A black woman with the ability to exquisitely capture the beauty of a black woman with an eye for detail that is second to none
“Five Times ” That was the inspiration behind this magazine We all know and love a black woman Why should that black woman suffer more than others? Why should that black woman not be given the same care and opportunities as others?
So, here we are just over a year later with a health, beauty and lifestyle magazine featuring inspiring and informative articles by black people A publication that positively represents and celebrates black people
When I look back at the last year I wonder if I had gotten that job would there be a magazine today? Here, there is a lesson In fact, there is always a lesson What could have been perceived as a failure, turned into an achievement that is greater than me Sometimes we allow ourselves to think small without realising that maybe there is a bigger opportunity Never allow yourself to be limited by society, by expectations and especially by yourself
Oh and in case you are wondering if I got that job after applying again. You best believe this black girl did!
OOlatokun
SPOTLIGHT CONTRIBUTORS
When Tinuke Awe first became a mother in 2017 she thought she might be the only young Black woman in the whole of South East London going to all the mum and baby groups The truth was, she wasn’t She couldn't seem to find other Black mums to connect with so she sought out to create her own ‘ mum tribe’ - Mums and Tea as a way to connect other Black mums.
Through various events, Tinuke was able to bring hundreds of mums together using her people skills from her psychology degree and background working in HR Mums and Tea is passionate about allowing Black mums to know they are not alone
She founded the Five x More campaign to address Black maternal mortality in the UK and is vocal about highlighting the experiences Black women go through in motherhood to make the motherhood scene more inclusive
Dr Stacey Bryan is an Obstetrics and Gynaecology registrar, subspecialising in Women’s Cancers She has undertaken research looking into prevention and early detection of Cervical Cancers Her work has led to publications and presentations at both national and international conferences
Dr Bryan is the Vice Chair of the British Caribbean Doctors and Dentists Association (BCDD) She is also an advocate for health awareness and literacy in the community She has worked closely with charities to provide education surrounding women ’ s health, particularly to those marginalised in society
Mr Jonathan Makanjuola is a Consultant Urologist and lead clinician for bladder cancer at King's College Hospital Mr Makanjuola was among the first recipients of the prestigious BAUS/WCE Endourology fellowship which allowed him to Sri Lanka to master surgical management of advanced stone disease and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) - a keyhole surgery procedure to remove kidney stones
Mr Makanjuola is actively involved in research and teaching He has authored numerous publications on stone disease, urological trauma, surgical innovation/education and laparoscopy in peer-reviewed journals He is also cancer and genetics module co-lead for year 3 medical students at King's College Hospital School of Medicine
ARE YOU WHAT YOU WEAR?
“The patient was dressed in bright, colourful and revealing clothing, inappropriate for the cold weather and inconsistent with their cultural norms ” This sentence forms part of what is called a Mental State Examination, a structured assessment of a patient’s behaviour and presentation during psychiatric evaluations
Our assessment of a patient begins although does not end, with their appearance, including their clothing, and we can make inferences on their mental state from these observations For example a patient dressed similarly to the above description could be experiencing an episode of mania A patient appearing dishevelled and unkempt with unclean clothing could be experiencing a depressive episode Patients with Schizophrenia have been known to wear multiple layers of clothing What we choose to wear can not only speak volumes about our internal state but can also affect it
Fashion is often a way to express who we are, how we feel and how we wish for others to perceive us
We have all heard the saying “ you are what you eat,” but did you also know that there is another saying you are what you wear?”
Reality television certainly knew, with shows like What Not to Wear using the psychological effects of fashion on mental health to boost participants’ self-perception and help these participants succeed in their personal and professional lives They recognised the relationship between what we wear, how we feel about ourselves, and how others see us
The psychological phenomenon where clothing directly affects mentality is called enclothed cognition, a term created by researchers at Northwestern University They found that the clothing we wear influences how we see ourselves as well as how we think and function
Even minimal fashion clues, such as the types of shoes we wear can accurately be used to identify our age income and more impressively attachment anxiety!
There are two important parts to the enclothed cognition process: the symbols that we associate with the clothing and the physical experience that occurs when we wear the clothes.
Symbols play a major role in how we form cognitive conclusions From the very words I am using, to the art hanging in your room, we use symbols to convey meaning so regularly that we might not even realise the lengths at which our thoughts are linked to symbols
Take for instance, during the study participants who were placed in lab coats performed better than those placed in their own clothing The participants associated the lab coat with increased intelligence, and their performance ultimately reflected this
This is enclothed cognition Because we use social clues and engrained symbols to establish a belief about someone, ourselves included, dressing for the part can play a huge part in how interactions with others play out This is likely the basis for the saying “Dress for the job you want.”
When we dress in a way that is true and reflective of positive symbolism state can actually improve
Fashion is a healthy and fun wa ourselves It can literally brighten bright colours are your style (as th It can also help you:
Feel appreciated for your style dressing
Find friends with similar styles a Tap into your artistic and creativ
Stand out or blend in with your
Build up your confidence
Get into character
All forms of fashion are fair game w to uplifting our identity, as long as contributes to a positive and au image Shoes, trousers, shirts, and robes are articles of clothing pe customise their sense of style For others, it s in the small details watches, hats, scarves, and gloves c major role in your identity and m Associating your identity with ev socks that just make you feel yourself can have positive mental h
From my experience, fashion can your morale especially if you contributing to a positive sense o you dress in a way that matches w of symbolic health, the physical that follow can reflect that positive
It’s no surprise then that changing can improve your mental state.
That’s one of the reasons I am passionate about designing clothing to promote the power of creativity and individual style on the way we feel.
Gowns from my Bridal Robe collection aim to celebrate femininity and accentuate elegance to create a sense of royalty in our bride
Sometimes, all one needs to boost themselves up is a nice pair of jeans, or a fancy blazer, or that beloved jumper that brings comfort and joy during a difficult time
By using healthy symbols associated with our clothing, we can help combat some of our mental difficulties and shape our identities in a healthier fashion (pun intended)
Dr Jessica Fletcher is a psychiatry trainee and founder of bespoke fashion design brand SHERAH SHERAH can be found at https://sherahonline/ or @sherah online on Instagram
AQMe and my ex-boyfriend were together for 5 years and had two beautiful children He was always a great father Things got bad in the last year of our relationship and he cheated We are now separated but co-parent I still have a lot of anger towards him I come from a single parent household and my mother always talked negatively about my father This left me with trauma and relationship issues that I took into adulthood I don't want the same for my children
How can I talk to my children positively about their father whilst working on myself?
Hello,
I like this question It shows good intention and a desire to break generational patterns By this I mean you don’t want history to repeat itself You want different for your children So, I want to take this opportunity to say that you have already broken the generational patterns, you are not your mother and your children’s father is not your father Your children have a mother who is reflecting and wanting to preserve their positive relationship with their dad
You can do some things to remind yourself of this You could write affirmations to yourself, for example “I am not my mother,” “My children are thriving ” Whatever feels meaningful to you, find your own words that capture your intent and make a note of it Put that note somewhere you can see it easily when you need it; notes section of your phone or a note on the wall If you think you can remember it without writing it down, say it out loud to yourself in those moments that you are feeling the need to do or say anything that doesn’t honour your intent for your children If you are creative, make a visual board and have it up somewhere you can see it
Another thing to do is to write a letter to your children You don’t have to give it to them, the letter is for you The frame of the letter should be:
To (child’s name)
You were created in love I see your (describe a positive quality you see in them) from your father and I see your (describe a positive quality you see in them) from me You are a beautiful mix of both of us I wish you (write the things you wish for them)
Like the affirmation you can go back to this when needed This will also help you talk positively to your children about their father because you have identified the good qualities in them from him You also need to start seeing him only as the children’s father and focus on that, not your ex who hurt you Describe the positive things their father did or does for them If they come back from spending time with him and they are sharing a story about time with him notice their emotions and expressions as they speak about their dad and reflect that back to them “Wow, you loved spending time with dad,” “Look at that smile on your face, daddy makes you feel happy ”
The next thing I would suggest is doing something about the anger you feel towards the hurt and betrayal caused You can’t go back and undo what’s happened, but you have control over what happens next
Whilst your anger is valid, holding on to it too long without processing and healing is unhealthy It ties you to the past, you need to release the anger and mourn the loss of the relationship. In the same way that it takes time to heal when someone we love has passed away, we need some time to heal from the end of a relationship
There are a number of ways you can do this: Write a letter that you don’t give him
Seek therapy (I recommend this in particular if you feel this anger is linked to your childhood trauma)
Let it all out with someone you trust Prep that they don’t need to respond, you just need a witness to your anger Sometimes when our loved ones add their views it can fuel anger
Discover a new hobby or find something you are passionate about and focus on that Introduce a new weekly family joy’ activity/session with you and your children where you bond and engage in activities that bring you joy
Quiet your anger by not giving in to it not everything needs a reaction or response, silence sometimes can heal
If seeing him is triggering and you find yourself being angered I suggest you find ways to limit contact with him until you have healed Can someone help when it’s his turn to see the children? If this is not possible, do something to invest in your mood right before you see him and boost yourself up e.g. playing your favourite song.
Finally, a gentle reminder that although you are both co-parenting and this is good You are only able to control your choices and actions So be mindful of having too much expectation of him or what he should be doing as you will only be triggered if he falls short of the expectations His relationship with his children will develop and exist in the way it needs to as will yours
Hope that helps Look after yourself, you matter
QI grew up in a traditional African household with typical African parents. They were not the most loving or supportive parents. I have a lot of resentment towards them Whenever I try and bring this up, they act as if this never happened and that I'm the one in the wrong for blaming them I feel like this is starting to affect all of my relationships including with friends and dating What can I do to deal with the hurt and resentment they have caused?
IMAGE: STEFAN DAHL/CANVA
AHello,
Well done to you for recognising what you felt wasn’t good enough and being bold enough to share this with your parents, I imagine it can’t have been easy with typical African parents To explain their response, whilst I don’t know them, typically a response like what you have described is defensiveness and selfpreservation. Most parents want to believe they are doing or they did the best for their children and when faced with the fact that actually they didn’t, it’s a really hard thing to hear We can feel hurt exposed and vulnerable and so we defend ourselves against these feelings by reacting defensively
Think about a time where you have felt hurt exposed or vulnerable would you have found it easy to hear your flaws at that moment If it s important to you for them to hear how you felt about your childhood, then I would keep this in mind when having a conversation with them.
Go easy, start with appreciation for whatever little or positive thing they did do
Own your feelings, so rather than say “You did this you did that say “I felt this I felt that ” Don’t focus on the details of any events but just how you felt
Acknowledge that it might be hard for them to hear what you are saying, but that it’s important to you to say it Having said all this or done all this it’s important I say that unfortunately you may not get the response you need from them but you can still heal from your childhood and forgive them Forgiveness doesn’t need sorry from the wrong doer, forgiveness is not for them it’s for you
Depending on the extent to which you are being affected by this, you may need to seek therapy Therapy allows a confidential and safe exploration of your childhood experiences and gives you a space to process your childhood with a non-judgmental professional who can equip you with tools to build your resilience and grow If you feel significantly affected to the extent with which it is interfering with your ability to maintain meaningful relationships, then I recommend it
Therapy allows a confidential and safe exploration of your childhood experiences and gives you a space to process your childhood with a nonjudgmental professional who can equip you with tools to build your resilience and grow. If you feel significantly affected to the extent with which it is interfering with your ability to maintain meaningful relationships, then I recommend it
There are some other things you can do to move on from the experience:
Acknowledge what has happened, list all the things ways you have felt hurt That list is your boundaries and guidance for future relationships
Treat yourself the way you wish had been treated as a child Be the most loving supportive person to yourself only speak kind words to you/in your head
Don t be too self-critical Celebrate your small and big wins
Linked to the above point, practice self-love, get to know you and what works for you what you enjoy what brings you joy and peace. Schedule a time weekly that you do these acts of self-love When you love yourself and know your worth, others will see that to and treat you with how you treat yourself
Focus on the future and how things will be different for you. The past is there for us to learn and heal from it can no longer hurt us if we don’t allow it The future is full of possibilities
Hope that helps Look after yourself
Kemi Omijeh (MBACP) is a registered Therapist with over 13 years experience working with children young people and their families with a vast amount of experience including with local authorities, schools and youth organisations She is also a mindfulness coach and mental health consultant and trainer Her areas of expertise are: - anxiety trauma low mood confidence and resilience. Kemi offers a range of services from one to one therapy, parenting consultations and group wellbeing sessions for children and young people She delivers workshops on many topics including race and the therapeutic relationships as well as understanding challenging behaviours and responsive parenting In addition she also has two online courses available – “Help your child with their anxiety and “Improve your child's self esteem and wellbeing ” She can be found at www kemiomijeh com or on Instagram @therapy with kemi
ULTIMATE WELLNESS
Dr Tosin Sotubo, Mind Body Doctor, shares her advice on achieving an ultimate state of wellness
BE INTENTIONAL
Be intentional about focusing on your health and listen to your body
Our bodies and minds are pretty remarkable at giving us warning signs that we should to pay attention to
STAY CONNECTED
Stay connected with people Technology has proved to be a survival mechanism for many during the pandemic
The likes of Zoom have meant we don’t have to completely miss out on social interaction which is a huge part of our daily wellbeing.
GET ACTIVE
Move more! Physical activity is so important not just for your physical health but just as much for your mental health too
Exercise comes in so many shapes and forms find what you enjoy and what works for you.
SLEEP WELL
Be intentional about your sleeping regime This means making sure you ’ re in bed at a certain time with as little disturbance as possible.
Switch off your phone and make sure your mind is as switched off from the day’s activities as much as possible
FOCUS ON YOU
When it comes to your health it’s important to remember to focus on your own journey This can often be difficult these days with so much information available at our fingertips and on social media
Remember what may be right for someone else may not be the answer for you and if ever in doubt always speak to a healthcare professional.
EAT WELL
Avoid quick result diets as these often aren’t helpful in the long run and can leave your body depleted of the vital nutrients it needs
Instead concentrate on nourishing your body enjoying your food and adopting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle
TAKE TIME
Take time to focus on your psychological wellbeing Be intentional about checking in with yourself every day This may be first thing in the morning
Ask yourself; how am I feeling? How are my energy levels? Where is my head at? With all the non-stop activity going on around us, it’s easy to ignore when we need time to relax
Global Wellness Institute
Dr Tosin Sotubo is a medical doctor working in London as a NHS & Private General Practitioner with a passion for spreading health awareness She founded Mind Body Doctor, as a friendly and accessible space to educate and inspire as many people as possible to look after their health. She has a huge focus on diversity and representation in health and wellness to reflect people from all backgrounds and walks of life
THE BLACK WOMAN, THE BLACK MOTHER AND HER POWER
C A N D I C E WITH
photgraphy by Amanda Akokhia
CANDICE BRATHWAITE
THE AUTHOR OF A BEST-SELLING BOOK, TV PRESENTER, JOURNALIST AND FOUNDER OF AN AWARD-WINNING PLATFORM
THAT SHINES A LIGHT ON DIVERSITY IN MOTHERHOOD
Isabella Olatokun: You have launched an absolutely amazing career. So tell us, who is Candice?
Candice Brathwaite: Candice is actually a major introvert! I know so many struggle to believe that as I have such a public career but my worst nightmare is being invited to events, having to small talk - like I can feel the sweat building up just thinking about it PreCovid I was that person that would accept an invite and flake last minute My husband works hard at trying to make me see the value in being more of a social butterfly but I just don’t have it in me Outside of that I’m a unicorn I’m living this one of a kind magical life that society always told me either was unavailable to me or I wasn’t deserving of With everything I personally succeed at I’m like “boom - in your face world I want my mule and the forty acres thank you ”
IO: Tell us about your day - from when your alarm goes off (or who wakes you up) to when you go to sleep.
CB: I wake up naturally between 5-6am I’ve always been an early riser and light sleeper both of which is annoying because when I am without the children I struggle to sleep in
I don’t have social media apps on my phone (actually that’s a lie - I have TikTok) so I’m still weaning myself off of reaching and scrolling
I talk to my husband, check the calendar, say what I’m thankful for and then get up Whoever gets up first has to deal with the dog We have a long-haired chihuahua called Brixton Once he has been let out, I make myself a flat white with oat milk By then the kids are usually up My husband and I fix their breakfast, help them wash/brush their teeth and sort our sons lunch as he is still able to go to his minder and get our seven year old ready for home schooling
If I’m training that day I then brush my teeth wash my face and head out to meet my trainer If not I hit the shower put make-up on and get dressed.
The rest of the day is spent planning or filming content writing my next book or for various publications and being on zoom meetings I’ll intermittently talk to my husband as our schedules are similar and we will take it in turns to check on Esme (my daughter) After lunch I always walk the dog with Esmé It’s important she gets fresh air. Then we come back and work until 4pm which is when RJ (my son) comes home
By 6pm the kids are in the bath with dinner on the table by 6:30pm We try to eat with the kids at least three times a week It s something Esmé said is an upside of lockdown so now we make that happen RJ goes to bed at 7pm with Esmé down by 9pm Brixton puts himself down at 9:30pm without fail
I have a stringent skincare routine that comes in around now Double cleanse exfoliate serums - the whole shebang After that I use the headspace app to meditate. It’s a moment for me to be alone. One of the biggest things for me has not being able to have more alone time
After that Bodé (my husband) and I watch TV or talk for hours, with lights out being around midnight, usually listening to a podcast or reading a book is what sends me off
We all know a black woman who didn’t ask for help or put themselves first. It never ends well.
IO: How do you prioritise your mental and physical health throughout the day?
CB: During the second lockdown I became aware of my how my physical health was not in the best place Working with a personal trainer has helped me keep track of my goals and she has also been a great kick up the ass on the days I just cannot be bothered - which is every day to be fair When I’m not able to work out with her I use the FIIT app I don’t think we give home workouts the respect they deserve For the last two years I’ve been engaged in weekly therapy For me the cost has become a necessity as I have a lot of trauma to unpack and my work and home life is not without it’s hiccups Sticking to a schedule for both helps me see where I will have gaps for myself alone and that gives me something to look forward too
IO: What advice would you give to other women, in particular black women, about the importance of their mental health?
CB: I would encourage them to remember that auntie, you know the one who always put herself last and quite literally ended up dying never pleasing herself or looking after her mental health as everyone else just took and never replenished - we all know a black woman who didn t ask for help or put themselves first It never ends well Always keep that in mind
IO: What are some good habits from lockdown that you are taking with you back into “normal” life?
CB: Eating dinner together as a family is a habit I want us to maintain as is my commitment to working out and getting fresh air
IO: And some bad ones?
CB: To be honest I don’t think any habit can be defined as bad’ right now I’m perhaps watching way too many unboxing videos on YouTube but it’s unprecedented timescale something has to give
IO: Best piece of advice you have ever received?
CB: It was a question: One biscuit now or two later?’ My dad used to use this to illustrate how you can perhaps gain more if you practice patience
IO: And the worst?
CB: Any advice to do with respectability politics’ we have a terrible stance in our community that we should just respect our elders or not question the many ways we have been abused That generational trauma ends with me
IO: What does confidence mean to you and how to you practice it?
CB: It means showing up in any arena, any space and being my 100% authentic self I practice that by not committing to anything if I catch even a whiff of me being asked to dilute myself or not speak my truth I ve turned down paying jobs for those reasons It’s never worth it You take me warts, thoughts and all or you find someone else
IO: Who inspires you the most?
CB: There is no one person and it s always changing I’m inspired by black women who succeed when on paper people said they wouldn’t Like Pat McGrath, Viola Davis, Michaela Cole The boundary pushers The game changers
IO: Tell us about your journey to motherhood?
CB: My journey to motherhood was very untraditional So much so I’ve written about my first pregnancy which ended due to me choosing to have a termination I think it’s important that more black women are vocal about making that choice I had spent a large bulk of my childhood, helping to raise children I was very skeptical about the kind of mother I could be
Luckily I’m one of the most fertile people I know. Literally I don’t allow my husband to even brush past me too hard in the kitchen So every time I’ve been pregnant I’ve known very early on With Esmé I knew what I wanted which was her
Choosing to have Esmé-Olivia my eldest was a big roll of the dice Thankfully I think we both wouldn’t have it any other way I really enjoy this role Which was do different to what I saw growing up More often than not I was around women who clearly didn’t want to be mother’s I knew this by their words and actions - usually both Seeing that made me determined to be able to be the kind of mother who never ever made their children feel as though they had made a mistake
IO: You had some complications after giving birth, can you tell us more about that? How did it affect you?
CB: Yes, I was ‘overdue’ with Esmé and so the usually unnecessary palaver that is the induction process began. It was horrific Nineteen hours of induced labour (with me only being able to dilate to one centimetre) meant that I was too exhausted to continue and I opted for a csection
if they didn’t operate immediately I would perhaps be dead by morning
A few days after the surgery I was feeling desperately unwell I had three different midwives come to visit me to tell me that it was nothing and I perhaps shouldn t spend so much time worrying myself by being on forums on the internet After a rough night I was awoken by the most horrific smell
To cut a long story short I found out the smell was me I had fallen asleep with Esmé on my chest and she had moved down my tummy allowing an infected sack in my c-section wound to burst I was rushed back to hospital where I was told I was slipping into septic shock and if they didn t operate immediately I would perhaps be dead by morning Luckily, thanks to Esmè, I ve lived to tell the tale It was six weeks of long recovery without being able to be with my baby
IO: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give other black mothers to advocate for themselves in pregnancy and the time afterwards?
CB: Where possible always take someone with you to your antenatal appointments Write everything down even record the meetings on your phone Try not to be left alone ever Having witnesses may be essential in some cases Listen to your instincts and your body could mean the difference between life and death Stay connected to yourself Always
THE BLACK MATENITY EXPERIENCE
WITH
of the Five x More Campaign & Mums and Tea
& DR STACEY BRYAN
Obstetrics & Gynaecology Registrar and Vice President of the Black Caribbean Doctors and Dentist Association
TINUKE AWE
Founder
I’m raising a black man, I’m raising a black woman.
The way I mother is going to be different.
In both 2018 and 2019, the now infamous MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK) reports highlighted that black women were not one, not two but fives times more likely to die in pregnancy and the six weeks after than white
Interestingly over the last decade these numbers have been increasing with little input as to why or what is being done to decrease this figure
We sat down with Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Women's Health) Doctor, Dr Stacey Bryan, and Tinuke Awe (and her mini-assistant Ezekiel), co-founder of the Five X More Campaign to talk about their experience of working with black women to look into reasons why and find solutions to improve these figures
So, please tell me about yourselves and your platforms?
Dr Stacey Bryan (SB): Hello! I’m an obstetrics and gynaecology registrar (women’s health doctor)
I’m also the Vice Chair of the British Caribbean Doctors and Dentists Association (BCDD) As part of BCDD we do a lot of health promotion work Although the hot topics are BAME & COVID-19 and vaccinations, we believe there are multiple health inequalities that need to be addressed For example, improving health literacy within our community so people know where they should seek help, what’s normal, what’s abnormal and providing a platform for them to learn about medical conditions We do lots of health promotion to try and reduce the gap in health inequalities In a nutshell that’s what we do
Tinuke Awe (TA): Hi! I’m the founder of Mums and Tea which is a social network for black mums to connect Mums and Tea came out of a need to connect with other black mums In my area, often I was the only young black mum going to the playgroups and children’s centres You can connect with mums of other races and ethnicities because we all have that sense of motherhood
But by way of culture and background, we are different I m raising a different child to you, I m raising a black man, I m raising a black woman The way I mother is going to be different I felt that I didn’t find my identity in those groups
So I set up Mums and Tea to connect other black mums together so they knew they weren’t alone Through that I’ve connected hundreds of black mums which is amazing I’m also very passionate that as women we are fulfilled - from business, to careers and relationships
I had a very traumatic experience giving birth in 2017 My pre-eclampsia was diagnosed late, I got induced and felt I wasn t listened too I felt my pain was dismissed Through talking to other black mums through Mums and Tea I found that my experience wasn’t isolated For me it wasn’t just the assisted birth it’s the way I was treated Other mothers had emergency C-sections infections left permanently damaged just because they were not listened too After hearing the MBRRACE statistics in 2018 I thought this isn’t right, this isn’t good enough I did my research and saw that this has been going on for years So we just decided to scream and shout about it And that’s how Five X More was born
You both have platforms that promote black women, why is this important to you?
SB: When I was going through training I didn’t see people like me. In medical school there were about 5 black people out of 350 students There are certain things we had to navigate on our own Now coming together we feel empowered to speak out We felt it was important to have that representation and make younger people realise they can do this Another arm of BCDD is outreach to try and encourage younger people into medicine and dentistry
TA: I’m a black woman It’s important for me to make sure black women are supported Knowledge is power and even if I can help just one woman I’ve done my job I think it’s important we share knowledge when it comes to birth I heard a lot of negative stories around the time of giving birth to my son I thought it couldn't be that bad Then I went in and it was that bad The second time I had a really good experience with my daughter because I built the campaign Other people have engaged with the campaign and had positive birth experiences and it's important because everyone is born of a woman If you have a negative experience giving birth that can follow you around So it s important to share what works and empower people with knowledge so that we can continue to have better births
How have your platforms changed the way you see black maternal health?
SB: We need to hear and listen to the sad stories It's difficult because as a black female doctor trying to navigate the healthcare system, you try not to rock the boat too much As part of our training we go to different hospitals, to experience different demographics Some of the population don’t have the same issues as others, each unit has its own culture and it can be quite difficult to introduce new methods of doing things within that department
You don’t think you have power to change the system I follow Five X More and the experiences about not being listened too, wishes not being discussed, black women not feeling pain It exists I’m sure when I first started training, someone told me these stereotypes and you go with it because you are a young trainee. You don’t question it. Obviously as I’ve gone through my career, I’ve found my voice and I’m able to challenge these stereotypes
Hearing the stories makes it more real Any obstetrician gynaecologist or midwife should really listen to those stories and engage with women when they are telling their stories
Everyone is born of a woman
How has it changed my practice?
I work in an area with few black people and a black couple came in when I was on-call Even the look of seeing a black doctor, the patient felt I was someone they could relate to The woman was very clear that she didn’t want a certain procedure, but the team very much thought she should have that procedure I spoke to her and gave her all the facts I think seeing a black female doctor and saying if that’s what you want, stick to that, was very helpful for her
I saw her the next day and she had had a nice normal delivery She was very thankful to me There were things I said to her “ you know your body,” “ you know what you want ” Medically both her and the baby were safe Obviously if the baby wasn’t safe or if there were any complications that would be a different story
I felt she trusted me a little bit more. Her partner was very involved too We need to speak to partners and get them involved
Now in my practice I make sure to form a dialogue
Try and understand what they are worried about and explain that as long as it’s safe I’m going to try and facilitate that So it’s important for me to hear those stories and for as long as it’s safe to respect the wishes of the woman
TA: To echo what Stacey said With the campaign, we highlight those stories both good and bad because we can learn from both Women have said, because of your campaign, I ve had the birth I wanted
As part of the campaign we have six recommendations for pregnant women:
SPEAK UP
Speak up if you feel something isn’t right A lot of people feel silenced because the doctor said it is fine But actually, unless there is no risk to me or my baby then I should have a say
RESEARCH
Be clued up about what to expect Let them know that you are not here to mess around You will be treated differently It becomes a different conversation when you come in not all guns blazing but with facts. You also feel confident So we encourage people to do to their research on trusted resources such as NHSuk* and NICE guidelines**
TRUST YOUR INSCTINCT
You know your body better than anyone Feeling that something isn’t right and then speaking up
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
Ask any healthcare professionals you come in contact with to document what they have said If you are given or refused a treatment, that should be written down in your notes You’ll be shocked to know that when people ask to see their notes, they say “oh I didn’t know that happened”
SEEK A SECOND OPINION
You can ask to change your healthcare professional if you don’t feel that you are being listened too
FIND AN ADVOCATE
This is important as they can speak on your behalf if you can’t That’s someone who is clued up on pregnancy childbirth someone who is savvy It doesn’t have to be a partner, it can be a friend or doula I mean, my partner was useless for both births, bless him!
SB: To add, women are entitled to have a debrief with a consultant if they felt their delivery didn’t go as they wanted, to breakdown what happened I think it’s important that women know that
TA: Yup, that’s something we are adding to the campaign
Is there is one reason out as to why treatment is poorer for black women?
SB: There are multiple things, not just one It would be helpful to know what the areas are I know there are task forces looking into it Because all we keep hearing is four times more, five times more But why? What is the area? They ve broken down cardiovascular disease was the leading cause for all women, but how many of them were black women So we can say, if it’s a medical issue that is not being treated properly we can investigate all the reasons as to why; are we not giving the right medication; are we not recognising certain signs in black women For example in some areas, there aren’t many black people and black women are more likely to have fibroids People treating women with fibroids might think “why is she in so much pain, I don’t understand why ” Again, it’s me stepping in and explaining why
TA: I totally second that There are multiple factors Like you Stacey I’d be keen to know Marian Knight, who puts together the MBRRACE report, said that in breaking down the data black women are actually not dying from anything different to other women they are just dying at a higher number
I think that’s very interesting A lot of things can be prevented. Pre-eclampsia for example, can be managed if caught on time. That’s very personal to me because my pre-eclampsia a life-threatening condition was diagnosed very late When I started presenting about midway through my pregnancy I was showing signs of pre-eclampsia – high blood pressure protein in my urine swollen But it wasn’t picked up So it does need to be broken down so we can really see what’s going on
Black women aren’t complaining, they are not coming forward
One thing we are very passionate about at Five X More is going a step further from mortality to morbidity and looking at the lived experiences and near misses I’ve got friends that work in PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) and there is no data on black women
Black women aren’t complaining, they are not coming forward and can you blame them if they are experiencing poorer treatment or not being taken seriously So we are missing a lot of data There’s a whole other pandemic underlying there
I honestly believe that for every 1 black woman that unfortunately passes away, there are about 100 women behind her that have suffered poor outcomes but that data is not accounted for So we don’t really know what black women are experiencing within the health services We can’t really begin to even start pinpointing and saying yes, this is what needs to change.
How can we bring together the medical and non-medical side to improve black maternal health in the UK?
SB: Conversations like this Healthcare professionals talking to people that have gone through certain experiences As healthcare professionals, you think you are helping but at the same time you have to remember that this woman has a voice and opinion and should be involved in the conversation, rather than being told At BCDD we are very much about educating, giving women the facts, what’s normal, what’s abnormal, when to seek help So our programme of health events is all about that and arming you with knowledge
TA: Just to echo on that one thing we also say in the campaign is that there are real people behind these statistics You can easily become desensitised to five times more, not actually thinking that there are real people, real families affected by this So it’s looking at people as individuals, as humans
We have our steps but it goes beyond that It’s how am I treating this person as a human being Knowing that this is something that clearly affects women of colour. How can I go in and ensure that I am giving this woman the best care. Making women the centre of their care And equally on the other side making sure the women are clued up Not to put the blame on the black woman but she can do her research so that she knows what to expect Health professionals doing their professional duty to ensure that every woman gets the best care Regardless of colour but especially because of colour
One last question, why are black women amazing?
SB: Wow That’s a big question I want to say because we are “strong” but I don’t like feeding into the strong black narrative because it also implies that we shouldn’t show our weakness and we should just get on with it. Resilient is a better word. Resourceful. Colourful warm embracing people intelligent vibrant Everything!
TA: I’m gonna keep mine short and sweet ‘Cause we ’ re lit Drops Mic
SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER
WHY IS PERINATAL DEPRESSION AFFECTING BLACK WOMEN MORE THAN OTHERS?
Counselling psychologist Dr Orinayo Onabanjo breakdowns why perinatal depression may be more common among black mothers, what can be done to improve mental health outcomes and how you can get help if you are experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression.
Perinatal depression is a form of depression that occurs during pregnancy and up to one year after birth, affecting 10-20% of all women Perinatal depression can have adverse outcomes on the woman s relationships, breastfeeding journey, and parent-infant bonding Unfortunately research shows that perinatal depression is significantly higher among black women compared to their white counterparts
Mothers are often the heart of the family, so providing more attuned spaces for black mothers in the perinatal period is essential to promoting the welfare of not only black women but black families
Why is perinatal depression higher in the black community?
A study published in Migration and Health found that this is likely due to four categories:
Self-stigma and difficulties expressing emotional distress
Lack of resonance with the Eurocentric concept of perinatal depression
Perceived lack of familial and interpersonal support Healthcare professionals lack of attunement to mothers’ emotional and cultural experiences
Emotional expression & the concept of perinatal depression
Research in the journal Midwifery, found that some black mothers in the U K experiencing perinatal depression were more likely to feel that expressing emotional difficulties during this time was outside of cultural norms. As such they were less likely to speak up about how they felt due to self-stigma or were more likely to perceive their emotional difficulties as a sign of mental weakness
Black mothers were also found to have a different perspective to the western Eurocentric concept of perinatal depression
Some saw symptoms that would ordinarily be diagnosed as perinatal depression as a distressing but normal part of the emotional difficulty encountered in the journey of motherhood Discomfort with the label "perinatal depression" was also repeatedly seen among black African and Caribbean mothers
For some, this viewpoint was borne out of the notion of the "strong black woman" which was seen as a strength and added to a sense of being emotionally robust However, for others, this meant suffering in silence at the cost of deteriorating mental health
Consequently, mental health needs may not always be properly recognised and therefore adequately treated
providing more attuned spaces for black mothers in the perinatal period is essential
PERINATAL DEPRESSION
KNOW THE SIGNS
Feeling down & sad
Difficulty bonding with baby
Not speaking to friends & family
Lack of enjoyment
Feeling guilty, worthless or hopeless
Difficulty sleeping Lack of energy
Upsetting thoughts such as harming baby or yourself
Lack of confidence Lack of concentration
SEEK HELP
This is a new experience
Make time for things you enjoy, even if it's only a few minutes
Don't blame yourself for how your are feeling
Remember, it's ok to feel low after giving birth. Many women feel not quite themselves in the first few days after
If any symptoms last longer or if you experienced any symptoms listed here, be sure to seek help.
This shows the need for using language that resonates with black mothers and mothers to be Current language used by health care professionals might be seen as pathologizing which is why women may not admit to having symptoms of depression This might also explain existing barriers to seeking support and engagement with mental health services
Perhaps more nuanced and normalising conversations about how mental health is a continuum that ranges from thriving to being in crisis and acknowledging that we all sit somewhere on that continuum would be more helpful This could help identify deteriorating psychological wellbeing within this specific group of mothers without always referring to stigmatising labels but rather focusing on the benefits of thriving emotionally
At the same time normalising seeking help as a way to maintain a healthy mind may help open lines of communication and facilitate greater access to support
If you are experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression, please don t dismiss them Speak to a trusted friend, relative or colleague or to your GP, midwife or health visitor
If you do not feel comfortable talking to your current healthcare professionals, you can always ask to see a different doctor or midwife
normalising seeking help as a way to maintain a healthy mind may help open lines of
communication
Quality
and provision of
Interpersonal/Community support
Difficulties in interpersonal relationships appear to play a significant role in the black mother’s experiences of perinatal depression
A study in BMC Women’s Health exploring the experiences of black South African mothers, found depression was due to a perceived lack of support from partners, feeling unable to share their feelings with relatives and financial difficulties Difficulties trusting others with internal feelings and finding emotionally safe spaces were found This study also indicated a greater need for systemic and familybased interventions that understand the nuances and factors at play within the cultural context of black mothers.
What can change?
More tailored community-based interventions that understand the unique nature of black culture could be beneficial.
In fact therapeutic support groups designed specifically for black mothers have been found to be effective in reducing the sense of emotional and social isolation by offering safe spaces which provide opportunities for connection emotional support and discussing shared experiences This alternative type of support could be a lifeline for women who may not have support within their own families social and community networks
This therefore supports the usefulness of providing greater opportunities for peer-to-peer support with like-minded mothers outside of traditional individual therapy, that is typically offered
Becoming more creative with the interventions offered to black mothers, given that depression is associated with social withdrawal and increased suicidal risk particularly in the postnatal period, could be lifesaving
The Motherhood Group is a platform dedicated to helping black mothers through the maternal experience through events and peer support They are the co-ordinators of the Black Maternal Mental Health Week and can be found at https://www themotherhoodgroup com/ or @themotherhoodgroup on socials
outside of cultural
norms
Responsiveness of Healthcare Professionals
Existing studies show that black Caribbean mothers are less likely to gain access to perinatal mental health support compared to their white counterparts. Worse, a study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that when support was offered some described experiencing a lack of compassion and emotional sensitivity from healthcare providers
Needs can remain unmet as healthcare professionals are not always equipped to meet the specific needs of black mothers Unsurprisingly this becomes a significant factor in black mothers feeling emotionally unsafe which can prevent them from speaking honestly with professionals
Crucially, the perception of being unfairly treated due to race can also contribute This suggests that the experience of many black mothers suffering from symptoms of perinatal depression can be influenced by the type of care they receive from healthcare professionals Perhaps the notion that black ethnic groups are classed as hard to reach is a symptom of the fact that existing services do not appropriately support or meet their specific needs
These points paint a challenging picture of the difficulties that can be experienced by black mothers Thankfully, this is not the case for every black mother and many have positive experiences Nevertheless, the fact remains that black mothers are more likely to suffer from perinatal depression and it is important this disparity is acted upon
What can change?
A one size fits all approach to perinatal depression is unlikely to be beneficial to all black mothers Cultural norms differ significantly within each group, therefore should be considered within treatment The creation of spaces by culturally competent healthcare professionals for having intentional conversations that focus on solving potential barriers to accessing help, is essential
Exploring with black mothers what would help them feel safe, both emotionally and culturally early on in the maternity process is equally vital This is essential to creating more opportunities for the development and maintenance of perinatal mental wellbeing
Within my practice, I ensure the services I offer are tailored to the unique experiences of each black mother I see I do this by gaining a detailed understanding of their experience of motherhood in the context of their emotional and cultural identity, current life context, developmental history and desired goals.
With this current climate, there is still a long way to go but things are changing More and more we are recognising that these issues must be addressed, and solutions developed to support black mothers
If you or someone you know has been affected by this article or is experiencing signs of perinatal depression, don't be afraid to seek help. You can ask you GP, midwife or healthcare professional. Alternatively visit nhs.uk or mind.org.uk for help.
You are not alone.
Dr Orinayo Onabanjo is a Counselling Psychologist with a specialist interest in perinatal mental health with a particular emphasis on working within the black mothers She is the founder of London Psychology and Wellness which is a private psychology practice for mums in pregnancy and the postnatal period and adults experiencing common mental health difficulties She can be found at wwwdronabanjocom Orin is also the founder of @blackperinatalmentalhealth A community of black mental health and maternity professionals working collaborativelytoofferlowcostinformational,psychoeducationalandmaternitysupporttoblackwomenplanninga pregnancyandexperiencingmentalhealthdifficultiesintheperinatalperiod
LIFE ON THE FRONTLINE
2020 WAS DOMINATED BY COVID-19; THESE DAYS WE CANNOT GO ANYWHERE WITHOUT HEARING THE WORDS "QUARANTINE," "SANITISER" OR "MASK."
WHILST MANY WERE WORKING FROM HOME, SOME WERE OUT ON THE FRONT LINES WORKING ON THE COVID-19 WARDS.
WE SAT DOWN WITH THREE HEALTHCARE WORKERS TO TALK ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES DURING THE PANDEMIC AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE COVID-19 VACCINE.
To find out more about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit: https://www nhs uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/
DR DON BURGESS
A&E CONSULTANT
There is a lot of hesitancy in the black and ethnic minority community about taking the vaccine, though we are more likely to suffer from COVID-19. What has your experience of this been?
Working in my particular department, it is very clear that we are at higher risk Not only do we have a higher rate of long-term significant consequences, but also higher rates of death
Tell us about yourself
I m an Emergency Medicine consultant who started work as a banker and then went into medicine I've been working in emergency medicine for over 15 years now Outside of medicine I’ve spent a lot of time travelling around Europe with family and fooling with cars!
How has your experience been working throughout the pandemic?
Having worked in 4 or 5 different countries, you see a lot of extremes But working on the frontline at the worst affected hospital in London during the first wave was an extreme I have never experienced We had colleagues in intensive care for months Families could not come to be with their relatives All around I would say interesting but traumatic
Did you get your COVID-19 vaccine and why?
Absolutely I am a scientist, I believe in science We have relied on vaccinations and scientific studies for generations Throughout our lives we have taken vaccinations which have protected us against lifethreatening illness The same companies that develop antibiotics or blood pressure medications that have allowed us to live longer, also develop vaccines
As a consequence, I believe that vaccinations are the best possible opportunity for me personally to survive if I got sick Also for my family to be able to function Because even if I got sick and didn’t die, at least I would not be horrendously ill that it would stress my family, I wouldn’t have prolonged periods off work, I wouldn’t have the stresses of hospitalisation, I wouldn’t have the worries of trying to figure out what to do for money Avoiding long COVID-19 is another reason
There has been a lot of hesitancy primarily because there has been a lot of misinformation Unfortunately, the black community having advocated for a long time to have doctors and scientist that look and sound like them, when we speak to them, sometimes they do not want to listen This is because of social media where many people have sought advice instead of from medical experts We see it with patients When we tell people “based on your symptoms, your X-ray and your COVID-19 positive test, you have COVID-19,” they are in disbelief They feel that it cannot possibly be COVID-19 and must be something else because in some cases, social media has conditioned some to believe that COVID-19 is a hoax It is not That mindset and behaviour means they are more likely to deny symptoms, seek medical attention later and expose others including their families to COVID-19. Those people are then more likely to end up in intensive care or worse and I’ve seen it happen I’ve had relatives die of COVID-19 So when I speak to others I’m not just speaking from a professional point but also a personal one
I hope black and ethnic minority communities focus more on understanding the science, from scientist Afterall, if you are buying a house you would get mortgage advise from an expert not a social media post The same applies here
I am a scientist, I believe in science.
DR SARAH ANN FILSON
INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MICROBIOLOGY DOCTOR
Tell us about yourself
I graduated from Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry and I’ve been accepted at Harvard University to study Health Policy later this year Before going into medicine, I worked in the city and as a teaching assistant For many years I have also been mentoring with different organisation which includes giving talks in schools about my career to help inspire the next generation. Outside of medicine, I’m a proud Londoner and love to socialise with friends and family.
How has your experience been working throughout the pandemic?
Dealing with the pandemic has been really challenging, emotional and a steep learning curve particularly within infectious diseases Often we are at the forefront of change in the hospital and advising on policy Unlike most, my COVID-19 journey starts in late January 2020
When Hubei Province (where Wuhan is the capital) in China went into lockdown our hospital was trying to work out how we were going to manage if we had any cases We had experiences with infections such as SARS so we knew about the importance of appropriate isolation PPE and testing
We had our first suspected case at the end of January 2020 - a man returning from Hubei Province with mild symptoms He was initially discharged as he was well however based on Public Health England advice we brought him back for testing That was a logistical nightmare Despite living near the hospital he wasn’t allowed to walk back He had to be brought back by ambulance and kept isolated In February 2020 I moved to Northwick Park Hospital This was like coming out of the frying pan into the fire
Northwick Park were testing patients that fit the case definition of COVID-19 as well as suspected patients from Heathrow The number of patients we were treating almost spiralled out of control We saw many patients from Asian and black backgrounds with more significant and severe COVID-19 We initially thought this higher number was due to the diverse population we serve, however we realised this was happening across the country
The
number of patients we were treating almost spiralled out of control
This pandemic has affected ethnic minorities disproportionately to others yet there is still not enough understood about this And that is not just physical health but economically and mental health We are losing jobs and suffering from mental health problems at increased rates
Why should people get the vaccine, particularly those from black and ethnic minorities?
As a people we need to be more concerned If you ’ ve seen what I’ve seen, read and understood the data you’ll realise we have the most to gain from this vaccine I also know at the same time, we have the most reasons not to trust the government, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies We know there is ongoing structural racism but we know this vaccine will save lives We recognise there is still change required but how can we do that if lives are lost?
So, there are many reasons to get the vaccine
The first reason is for your own protection and protecting your loved ones
The next is variants of concern One thing that allows variants of concern to spread is the amount of virus circulating in the population If you have a high level of vaccination within a population the virus cannot survive If the majority are vaccinated the minority who are unvaccinated will become the reservoir the virus thrives in There are more chances for the virus to not only live and grow but to mutate into a variant of concern in that unvaccinated group
ThisisexactlywhathappenedinBrazil wheretheyhave seen increasing numbers of younger people being hospitalisedanddying
Fromacommunity/globalpointofviewifyouwantus to get out of this pandemic, then it is important to get thevaccine
Vaccines are not the only way out of the pandemic, but they are a significant preventative measure With any vaccine or medication, there is always a risk-benefit analysis needed and I can understand peoples reluctance particularly young people when considering theirreducedriskofsevereCOVID-19
People need to get their information from reliable sources and that’s not the WhatsApp Groups or Dr Twitter
But one thing to remember is that to date, over a billion people have been vaccinated globally but only a very small percentage have had severe adverse reactions
Many worry that the vaccination is something that they” (the white majority) are doing to us ” (ethnic minorities) However, many ethnic minorities have been involved in vaccine development and it has been great to see the number of black, Asian and ethnic minority individuals in very prominent roles in pharmaceuticals and healthcare during this pandemic For example, one of the lead scientist behind the Moderna vaccine is a black woman If people do become unwell and come to hospital they will be treated by the same people
People should make informed choices They need to get their information from reliable sources and that’s not the WhatsApp Groups or Dr Twitter What’s interesting is that over the last year, many people have become experts in PCR, epidemiology, virus cycles These are very complex things to understand properly I went to medical school to learn and understand those things, some people even do further degrees to really learn and understand them in detail, and I would not claim to be an expert. So please make sure you get your information from a reputable source with a proper education and CV to back it up and not a social media story from someone that read one twitter quote
At the end of the day we understand there are justified trust issues for the black community but as a black healthcare professional I advocate for black people
DR ROCHELLE PIERRE
ANAESTHETICS JUNIOR DOCTOR
Tell us about yourself
I studied medicine at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry but did a Biomedical Sciences degree before that I am currently an anaesthetics junior doctor Outside of medicine I m a trustee for a charity called Street Doctors where we aim to reduce youth violence I also founded the British Caribbean Doctors and Dentist Association We came together to increase visual representation and applications of Caribbean s into medicine and dentistry We do a lot of health promotion work with an aim to increase the health literacy of the Caribbean and black community In my spare time I m also a DJ!
How has your experience been working throughout the pandemic?
I worked in the intensive care unit (ICU/ITU) in both waves In the first wave in March 2020 I was initially working on the medical wards however as I had previously worked in ITU I was re-deployed to ITU At that time it was horrendous Our ITU normally has 10 beds/patients During the first wave we had 35 patients in ITU We were using our operating theatres as beds for patients
Medicine has always had a strong evidence base but there was little evidence at the start of the first wave
We were looking at other countries who were a few weeks ahead to see what they were doing Many people died in the first wave It was very draining physically and mentally
The second wave felt worse Patients were a lot sicker and had worse outcomes despite everything we learnt in the first wave We were so full that we were transferring patients to other hospitals, some as far as Cornwall We had younger patients, some without underlying conditions I think people were less cautious by the second wave, which probably made the situation worse It was a very depressing and difficult time
Did you get the COVID-19 vaccine and why?
I, like many others, was initially hesitant about getting the vaccine That quickly changed when I started my ITU night shift on Christmas Day 2020 There were so many crash calls – which are calls when a patient has a cardiac arrest And the majority were for COVID-19 patients Many did not have good outcomes, they died or ended up with significant long-term medical problems I thought to myself, if there is something available that can potentially stop these deaths, protect my friends and family and potentially stop us going into another lockdown then why wouldn’t I do it? I spoke to one of my consultants about my hesitancies which were mainly in regard to the speed at which the vaccine was created What you have to remember is that the whole world stopped when COVID19 started to spread last year Everyone wanted a way out All the political and financial difficulties that make the vaccine or drug development process very long were removed Everyone was focused on finding a solution out of the problem
I understand the hesitancies, because I was there But actually reading, understanding the data and listening to the experts addressed my concerns So I would definitely advise others, particularly those from black and ethnic minorities to do the same.
Nobody knew what to expect or what they were doing
A HEALTHY INSPIRATION
There’s a picture of me that hangs in my house from when I was 3 years old A black and white picture with my big tummy and thumb in my mouth If you told me that little girl would be where I am today, I would have laughed I come from very humble beginnings I was born and raised in a deep and remote Zimbabwean village to a 19-year-old single mother
Growing up I didn’t know what I wanted to be I went into nursing as a way to secure funding for a marketing course That was 1999 and I started working in 2002
Over the next few years, I went from being the Junior Sister (Nurse in Charge) of my ward, to the ward manager of the private unit of my hospital and then the Matron (Chief Nurse) of St Mark’s Hospital in London Now, with the backload of patients needing cancer surgery after the pandemic, I have become the Lead Nurse for St Mark’s Hospital to help coordinate this backlog. Here’s what I’ve learnt along the way.
The Importance of Mentorship
Most of us, and when I say that I mean most of us in the BAME community, don’t talk enough about professional mentors or career advisors. We don’t share how we got the job or ask about the next steps. A mentor doesn’t have to be someone you work with. Don’t be too proud shy or afraid to find a mentor
We must also stop looking down at people as “just a cleaner or a labourer ” Speak to them They might have a master’s degree from back home but haven’t found their way You might be able to help them There’s a knock-on effect of investing in one person That person will invest in another person creating a ripple effect of people helping each other
Educate Yourself
My path seems straight forward but I have put in a lot of work At the moment I am doing an MBA I stayed up all night to complete my last assignment I went home after work put my children to bed then put on my backpack and went back to my office Before my MBA I did other postgraduate degrees They nearly killed me Because alongside them I was raising two children
It might sound crazy but it gets results You don t get anywhere by waiting for others to hand you opportunities or sitting down doing nothing Keep learning And that doesn t have to be an academic program You can surf the internet or ensure you are up to date with the latest information
Sometimes we allow the door to shut, without making an effort to walk through We should never say Oh I think Susan Jones is going to get it, so I am not going to apply ” We have nothing to lose And if you don’t get it, use the process as a learning opportunity for next time
Never play a victim
My mother taught me the importance of never playing a victim When I was a nursing student my mentor, a white lady from South Africa, spoke in a very derogatory manner about black people amongst a number of colleagues I was the only person of colour in the room I was so angry
That night, I told my mother She asked why I was telling her She was all the way in the village in Africa She asked why I allowed the conversation to continue She told me to compose myself and speak to my mentor, in a respectful manner The next day I had my final assessment with my mentor, which was surprisingly a pleasant experience She asked if I had anything to feedback I could hear my mother’s voice in the back of my head, so I spoke to her about the words she shared the day before
That day was the beginning of my confidence in having difficult conversations about race without making myself a victim. It is important to appreciate that. There will be situations where we will be the victim. But that day I explained to her how her words were harmful I never water down race But I’ve learnt we must lead with our intelligence (academic and emotional) to change negative conversations into positive ones that provide solutions Of course you are not their teacher but a gentle reminder never hurt nobody
Overall you must always know your vision Know your Northern Star and follow it Of course you will get some disappointments along the way but for me it has been incredible
FOR THE BOYS
Jonathan Maknjuola, Consultant Urologist at Kings College Hospital, London talks to us about prostate cancer - the most common cancer in men
What is the prostate and what does it do?
The prostate is a small gland in the pelvis, found only in men About the size of a walnut it is located at the bottom of the bladder The main function of the prostate gland is to produce a thick white fluid that creates seminal fluid, essential for fertility in men
What are the risk factors of prostate cancer?
Family history having a father or brother with the disease increases the risk There is also an associated risk with a family history of breast cancer due to the BRCA gene Age and ethnicity also increase the risk - black men have an increased risk of about 1 in 4.
1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Symptoms of prostate cancer do not usually appear until the prostate is large enough to affect the tube that carries urine from the bladder.
When this happens, men may notice symptoms such as:
an increased need to urinate straining while you urinate a feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied
These symptoms should not be ignored, but they do not always mean you have prostate cancer It is important that if you do have any of these symptoms, you tell your GP about them as soon as possible
Is there anything I can do to reduce the risk of prostate cancer?
There is some limited evidence that choosing a healthy diet that is low in fat and full of fruits and vegetables may contribute to a lower risk of prostate cancer So if you want to reduce your risk of prostate cancer, consider trying to:
Choose a low-fat diet
·Reduce the amount of dairy products you eat each day
Exercise to maintain a healthy weight
If you are at high-risk see your GP about getting a yearly prostate-specific antigen blood test
If prostate cancer is picked up early and has not spread to other parts of the body, the outlook is very good.
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Having a blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, measures the level of PSA together with a physical examination of the prostate This will help detect prostate cancer and save lives, especially for those in high-risk groups over 40 years old
If the PSA is abnormal your GP will send you to see a urologist who may offer an MRI scan of the prostate to determine if you need a prostate biopsy (a sample of the prostate taken for further investigations)
If I get prostate cancer, what is the outlook?
If prostate cancer is picked up early and has not spread to other parts of the body the outlook is very good Survival is over 90% at 5 years
In some men, we actively monitor their symptoms but in others whilst we can control the disease there might not be a cure Your treatment will depend on the type of cancer you have and should be discussed with your doctor.
Having a healthy and balanced diet is an integral part of maintaining good health and wellbeing among Black men. Nutritional needs for men vary depending on body size, age, physical activity levels and medical condition. However, there are some key nutritional considerations that Black men need to be mindful of to optimise their overall health and reduce their risk of developing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
A varied diet should include at least 2 portions of fish a week, including 1 of oily fish. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines contain omega-3 fatty acids, which may help to protect heart health This is very important as, according to the British Heart Foundation, African and Caribbean adults living in the UK are more at risk of developing heart diseases than their Caucasian counterparts
Though, there are other dietary and lifestyles to consider, including fish in your diet may be beneficial Men should aim to consume within the range of 1-4 portions of fish a week and should have no more than 4 portions as oily fish contains low levels of pollutants that can build up in the body
If you do not like or eat fish, you can include walnuts, pumpkin seeds melon seeds callaloo soya milk or tofu in your diet Some foods have it added to them and are good sources, such as omega-3 enriched eggs, milk, yoghurt, and spreads
Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of some types of cancer It is important to drink within safe limits Try to drink no more than 14 units a week, which is about 6 pints of average-strength or six small glasses (175ml) of average-strength wine Try to have several alcohol-free days each week
Consuming too much salt is linked to advanced risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease Health surveys by the British Nutrition Foundation, found that African and Caribbean men were 20-40% more likely to have high blood pressure, compared to the general population
The current recommendation is that we have no more than 6g of salt a day (equivalent to 1 teaspoon) yet the average salt intake in adult men, especially those from African and Caribbean households is much higher
Ensuring that you check nutrition labels on foods, opting for reduced salt version of foods and not including salt in cooking or at the table can reduce salt intake
Fruit and vegetables are part of a healthy, balanced diet and are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre that are vital for men s health Antioxidants can play an essential role in male fertility as they protect sperm cells against oxidative damage Consuming fruit and vegetables can help reduce risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease which is prevalent among the African and Caribbean community
Current UK recommendation is to eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day with one portion equivalent to 80g (a handful) However, most adults are not consuming enough fruit and vegetables and data from a health survey by the UK government showed that Black adults, out of all ethnic groups are consuming the lowest amounts
Fresh, canned, frozen, and dried fruits and vegetables all contribute towards your 5 a day Try to go for a rainbow of colours, including foods like mangos, apples, banana, papaya, jackfruit, cho cho, eggplant or green vegetables like callaloo, okra, spinach, and kale You can also add a handful of vegetables to main rice dishes, soups, and stews too Where possible, try to steam vegetables instead of boiling to retain nutrients
Try to lower your intake of foods that are high in saturated fats like biscuits cakes puff puff festivals fried dumplin, chin chin, chocolate, and cream Consuming too many saturated fats can raise cholesterol levels in the body, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke
Whilst it is important to reduce your intake of saturated fats, you don’t have to totally stay away from your favourite foods!
Current guidelines from Heart UK recommend no more than 30g of saturated fat for men per day You can reduce saturated fat intake by taking time to check food labels on packed food products when shopping, compare with similar products and opt for ones that are lower in fat
You can also grill, bake, or steam foods instead of frying or roasting to reduce fat content Instead of free-pouring oil from the bottle when cooking, try to measure a small amount with a teaspoon to control the amount and use unsaturated oils like olive oil instead of oils high in saturated fat like palm oil and coconut oil
Adults with dark skin from African and Caribbean backgrounds are at risk of vitamin D deficiency Vitamin D is essential for bone dental and muscle health and plays a role in normal immune system function, evidence suggests
Vitamin D is found in foods such as oily fish, egg yolk, meat, some breakfast cereals yoghurts and spreads fortified with vitamin D
Public Health England recommends that African and Caribbean people with dark skin consider taking a daily supplement of vitamin D containing 10 micrograms (400IU) all year round
Fibre is an important nutrient which is recommended as part of a healthy diet yet many are not having enough The average intake for men is 20 1g per day, however the recommended intake is 30g per day for adults
Fibre comes from the part of plants that is not digested but passes through the digestive system without being absorbed It plays a vital role in bowel function and is associated with reduced risk of bowel cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes Try to base meals on high fibre foods where possible like porridge brown rice ofada rice potatoes with their skins on, wholemeal bread, fruits and vegetables, groundnuts and pulses like beans and lentils
ALUCARDION/SHUTTERSTOCK
Red meat is a good source of protein iron and vitamin B12 and can be included as part of a healthy diet Red meat includes beef, pork, lamb, and goat. Processed red meats are meats that have been preserved by smoking, curing, salting, or adding preservatives and these include sausages, corned beef, bacon, pate, and deli meats like pepperoni
According to the World Cancer Research Fund strong evidence has shown that regular and excessive consumption of processed red meat is associated with increased risk of bowel (colorectal) cancer. Some research also suggested that high intakes of red meat may be associated with increased risk of prostrate cancer among Black men
The Department of Health recommends that adults who eat more than 90g of red and processed meat a day, should reduce their intake to 70g a day 70g of red or processed meat is equivalent to:
2 thin-cut slices of roast lamb, beef, or pork or
2 thin slices of corned beef or ¼ pounder beef burger or
A small piece of steak (size of a pack or cards)
Tai Ibitoye is a Dietitian registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and a full member of the British Dietetic Association (BDA).
She has over 7 years of experience working within the food and nutrition field – working in the NHS, public health organisations, nongovernment organisations, academia, research and the media.
"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced"
- JAMES BALDWIN
“I love my hair because
it
’ s a reflection of my soul.
It’ s dense, it’ s kinky, it’ s soft, it’ s textured, it’ s difficult, it’ s easy and it’ s fun. That’ s why
I love my hair.”
-Tracee Ellis Ross
Seperating truth from hype
AFRO HAIR
The Afro hair industry has grown over the past 10 years. In 2019, in the US alone, the Natural Hair market was valued at $8.7 billion. Along with this, comes more knowledge about Afro hair. But despite the millions of informative videos, articles, books and blogs on “how to get healthy Afro hair,” can all that information be trusted?
There are a few items that people commonly use on Afro hair, that despite popular belief that they are good to use, can actually stunt Afro hair growth. So, Adeline, Afro hair specialist of award-winning Adeline Hair and Beauty Salon, breaks down what NOT to put in Afro hair.
RICE WATER
Rice water is a common method believed by people within the Afro hair community to grow hair Although it’s considered a new method for growth, a trend that was popularised in 2018, it is a treatment that has been used over many centuries in Southeast Asia by Yao women
Rice water may be nutrient filled but can also be quite damaging to your hair Over-supplementation of certain nutrients can cause hair loss, specifically the overconcentration of vitamin A, vitamin E and Selenium A common misconception is that rice water is a treatment that packs protein into the hair but in reality, there is no scientific evidence to support this It is almost impossible for your hair to gain protein from rice water as the molecule is too big to penetrate the hair shaft
When it comes to using rice water on afro hair, the excess starch from the rice creates a build-up on the scalp dryness and causes tough/stiff hair which leads to fragility lack of elasticity and breakage over time These harmful elements can ruin low-porosity hair leading to irreversible damage.
Mineral oil is a pallid, unscented liquid from a mineral source Mineral oil is a common ingredient in body lotions, balms, makeup, and hair greases Some alternative names to look for are petroleum, white petroleum, liquid paraffin, petroleum jelly and paraffin wax
Despite some in the afro hair community avoiding Mineral oil, many still use brands such as Vaseline® and BlueMagic Hair Grease both of which include petroleum (mineral oil) Mineral oil leads to scalp build-up which can clog hair follicles halting the growth of new hair. It can cause hair strands to become stiff and snap off Its greasy layer is commonly mistaken for a ‘healthy shine’ but don’t be fooled Mineral oil creates nothing but lifeless, limp hair with product residue
ALCOHOL
Alcohol (otherwise known as ethanol) is an organic chemical compound that harshly strips tough materials Alcohol is a drying agent that breaks the hair follicle, adding to the fragility of Afro hair.
Alcohols are common emollients in hair conditioners, aiding the mixture of water and oil in the product, preventing separation Alcohol is also found in several finishing products, making it difficult to find something to set your hair Dr Ali N Syed, the founder of Avalon explains that, “Certain alcohols tend to decrease the natural moisture of the hair and scalp, leaving hair dry and brittle ” These finishing products may hold your hair for a short time, but is it really worth the risk?
Make sure to check your holding products to see if they are alcohol free I personally recommend gels that are aloe vera based for Afro hair They have the same affect but leave your hair looking healthier
BAKING SODA
Many in the afro hair community use baking powder as it removes the build-up of products from the hair and scalp Despite this being true, baking soda (otherwise known as sodium bicarbonate) has a pH level of 9, which is considered a strong alkaline and bleaching agent Stripping natural hair like this can be extremely damaging, especially when done on many occasions
Many attempt to battle baking soda’s high pH level with a product on the opposite end of the pH scale, something such as Apple Cider Vinegar Although this may restore the hairs’ natural pH level, is it really worth it?
The short answer is no Baking soda is extremely abrasive due to the small crystals in the baking soda
This can create small scratches on the scalp, making the scalp more susceptible to infections Baking soda also strips natural oils that afro hair needs, not only depriving the hair of nourishment but also leaving it to look dull and dehydrated
In all honesty, you would be safer using commercial shampoos than you would be using baking soda Leave the baking soda for the bread
PARABENS GORILLA GLUE
Parabens are a group of chemicals that are commonly used as artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products They are found in shampoos, conditioners, lotions and facial cleaners
They are also found in jams, soft drinks and syrups These chemicals are added to prevent and reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and mould increasing the shelf life of the product
Parabens can be used in practically every product under the sun, but do they benefit something as delicate as Afro hair? Parabens have been known to damage curly hair, ruining the integrity of the hair and scalp They can cause several problems for your hair - drying, scalp irritation, fading your hair colour and even result in hair loss Since they are generally unsafe, its best to avoid parabens and switch to a paraben-free hair product
Finishing products are almost essential to the Afro hair community Allowing your hair to set to increase the duration of your hairstyle is extremely important Due to the coarse texture of afro hair (a result of oval elliptical follicles), styles are quick to become messy
In early 2021 40-year-old Tessica Brown decided to experiment with a new finishing product but to her own error used an industrial adhesive to set her hair. The “Gorilla Glue” spray used on Tessica’s hair was in fact, extremely strong and unremovable
All jokes aside, Tessica was in extreme pain for weeks and had to have surgery, performed by Dr Obeng, to remove the glue
Tessicas horrible incident allows us to question: Is the aesthetic of your Afro hair really more important than the health? Even though it looks good it may not be good for your hair Sis don’t deceive yourself
BROWS TRENDING:
June 21st is coming. Hot girl summer is loading. Dolapo aka Brows by Dolly gives us the latest trends for brows. Get those brows ready for the streets.
If there is one thing that I love about the brow world is that every year there is a new way of styling our brows but every decade it changes dramatically
From the 20 s to 30 s the trend was pencil thin, and then we had:
40’s: thick arch or rounded,
50’s: dark and bold
60’s: distinguishable extra-dark and thick
70’s: well-manicured and natural,
80’s: extra full and thick,
90’s: drawn on slim and now we have hit 00’s where brows are t hick and well groomed
New shapes improved products tools PPE and new techniques 00's...where
Microblading has taken the beauty industry by storm in recent years Microblading when done properly is one of the very most natural semipermanent styles in the beauty industry, the precise hair stokes look like real individual hair, and this style is for your natural beauty lovers who desire to wake up each day with a full set of natural brows
After the first microblading treatment a top up is required 4 weeks later to ensure the skin absorbs the pigment The treatment lasts 8-12 months depending on the individual's skin type
brows are thick and well groomed
MICROBLADING
Ombre powdered fill-in has been around for many years but only recently has the technique improved and become a trend Ombre brows use a traditional tattooing method, with longer lasting results and does not require a top up for 12-18 months unless the client prefers an extra dark look People do fear that ombre brows have an unnatural look, which they did back in the 1980’s however with the new advanced method and tools it has a more natural look
My new most absolute favourite brow style has to be Brow Lamination The treatment is known as a brow perm that straightens and flattens the brow hair to make the brow look more full fluffy and natural It last 6-8 weeks and requires very low aftercare maintenance
Brow lamination has definitely become more popular in the modelling industry as it has the most natural yet dramatic look Its clean can be maintained a lot easier and has room to play around with the shape and shade of the brow
Dolly is a self-employed brow technician, having trained with PhiBrows company Being selfemployed has taught her to really understand the needs and wants of her clients It gives her great joy making people smile at the end of their appointments She is based in Essex and can be found @BrowsByDolly on Instagram
BLACK
HAIR & BEAUTY SUBSCRIPTION BOXES OWNED OWNED
Discover new and exciting haircare brands to unleash your fabulous curls kinks and waves delivered to your doorstep effortlessly and affordably. We carefully curate products from independent, up and coming and established brands to indulge your tresses
Every box features an exciting range of 3-4 full and travel sized products, which you can subscribe to monthly or a single box with no commitment We offer a Free From box every second month too Your curls are unique and with our boxes we hope to bring out the best out of your locks
You can find them at www curlsallowed co uk
CURLS ALLOWED KWEENBOX
AKA BEAUTY
AKA BEAUTY is a quarterly beauty box service for darker skin tones
We know that hunting for quality beauty products for your skin tone can be expensive and frustrating, so AKA Beauty does the work for you We connect you with brands that cater to all the magical shades of melanin! We pick at least 4-5 of the best beauty products, package them and deliver them right to your door for just £25 Each product is chosen with darker skin tones in mind allowing women of colour to discover current and emerging beauty brands that cater to them
Find them at www.akabeauty.com
Our core values are diversity and inclusivity, and our focus is not only beauty and skincare, but self care as well
Subscription prices: Trimonthly plan: £25
One Off Box: £25 plus £2 P&P
You can purchase the box on their website: https://www kweenbox com/
4CURLYHAIR
Founded in 2019 4CurlyHair provides women and men with Afro Caribbean hair with a range of healthy products and hair brands you can trust
We aim to provide a stress free hair shop experience by removing the need to go through a list of ingredients With the help of our own in-house scientist we look through the ingredients to make sure the products we sell only contain ingredients that are the best for us and our curls
4CurlyHair only stocks brands that you can trust We wouldn’t put anything in our store that we wouldn’t put in our hair
You can find them at https://www 4curlyhair co uk/
TRUE BEAUTY BOX LONDON
True Beauty Box London's aim is to provide a stressfree beauty shopping experience delivering beautiful products to test and try in the comfort of your own home
We strongly believe that the concept of receiving a variety of beauty products directly to your door every month, makes a difference in creating a personal and effective self-care routine
After choosing the subscription plan to suit, our Beauties receive at least 4 full sized products + 2 samples every month
Our plans start from as little as £24 + P&P
Subscription plans are available to purchase monthly quarterly biannually or annually
To choose a subscription to suit you and discover your new favourite beauty products visithttps://truebeautylondon co uk/
SKIN DEEP
TREATING ACNE PRONE SKIN
Acne is a problem of the pores on our skin Each pore is made up of a hair follicle with a ‘sebaceous’ or oil gland attached to it On the faces of most females these hair follicles are empty hence why our faces thankfully aren’t covered in hair.
In a normal pore, the sebaceous gland produces oil which travels up the hair follicle to lubricate the hair strand (if present) and is expelled through the opening of the follicle onto the outer skin, giving the face a healthy glow
In acne however things look a bit different Firstly the pores get clogged up by skin cells which multiply in excess leading to blackheads and whiteheads Then the sebaceous gland becomes overactive, secreting excessive amounts of oil which not only makes the skin super oily, but also causes further blockage of the pores All this oil and blockage creates a slimy environment which attracts bugs to the skin At this point you may see a pimple which may sometimes have pus containing bacteria coming out it
Next the body’s ‘immune system’ police is alerted to these bug intruders and goes in to fight off the bacteria causing a lot of chaos resulting in quite painful pimples, nodules or cysts
Now that we understand what goes on in acne, it is important to use treatments that target the specific stage or type of acne. The key is to know what stage of acne you have and to look for products that contain the right ingredients
FOR MILD ACNE
For whiteheads and blackheads you want a treatment that clears out the blocked pores This best treatment for this stage of acne is Retinoid creams They are brilliant in reducing the multiplication and stickiness of the dead skin cells and help to push out all the junk from the follicle Examples include Adapalene (also known as differin - requires a prescription in the U K ) and Tretinoin which helps to treat both active acne and the residual dark spots
Other options for whiteheads and blackheads are acids which include Beta-hydroxy acids (BHA’s) e g Salicylic acid and a natural acid derived from grains called Azelaic acid Azelaic acid in particular is effective in dealing with dark spots caused by acne Other acids such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s) e g mandelic acid, glycolic acid can be helpful but do not unclog the pores as well as the others
FOR MODERATE ACNE
Papules and Pustules
For this type of acne, in addition to the treatment for mild acne, a drug that can kill the bacteria is used. This may come in the form of a face wash cream or tablets depending on severity Face washes containing Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) and the Tetracycline group of antibiotics are such examples and are sometimes combined into one product e g Clindamycin/BPO gel (Duac) Sometimes this is used with tretinoin gel to help with dark marks.
FOR NODULES AND PUSTULES
Dr Dami is a dermatolog natural hair of colour pro
@thedermc
A special drug called Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) is helpful in treating this form of acne and has been described as a wonderdrug as it targets all 4 stages of the acne cycle, preventing scarring if started at the right time However, being such a strong drug, it MUST be prescribed by a licenced dermatologist as it has several side effects and has been linked to depression and suicide It also must not be used when pregnant as it can cause deformities in the unborn child
OTHER ACTIVE TREATMENTS
Hydroquinone– in as much as we do not endorse bleaching agents, they have their use when treating particularly stubborn dark marks left by the acne lesions Treating the affected spots ONLY is helpful if only a small area is affected However it MUST be used under the supervision of a licenced dermatologist, as side effects such as skin cancer, skin infections and permanent darkening of the skin can occur
In patients with moderate to severe acne that tend to occur around periods the oral contraceptive pill or a drug called Spironolactone can also be used Once again these need to be prescribed by a doctor
This is the severest form of acne
Several other cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels, lasers and light therapy are available which should be administered by an aesthetician or doctor who is familiar with dealing with dark skin
Last and not the least it is essential to wear sunscreen, yes SUNSCREEN, to prevent further darkening of the acne spots
NIGERIAN FOOD BUT VEGAN
Tomi Makanjuola is a Nigerian-born vegan chef and blogger, popularly known as The Vegan Nigerian. She published "The Plantain Cookbook", a popular cookbook r 40 plantain-infused vegan recipes. Her work has been features on a number of platforms including BBC News and BuzzFeed.
Veganism is a lifestyle that seeks to avoid the unnecessary exploitation of animals It is the recognition that other animals feel pain and suffering, and that we have a personal and communal responsibility to avoid contributing to this Vegans who adopt the lifestyle choose not to consume any products derived from animals be it in their diet clothing household products and more
When I went vegan in 2013 I was determined to continue eating all of my favourite Nigerian meals, which led to me creating The Vegan Nigerian From pounded yam and egusi, to efo riro, to ayamase and peppersoup, these were foods that I had grown up with and which made me feel anchored to my culture, even after my family moved to the UK
As a starting point for anyone interested in learning more abaout this lifestyle, I recommend that you download my free guide to going vegan which breaks down the many reasons why people go vegan along with several tips and tricks on navigating the journey
I hope that the recipes below convince you of what is possible when you have an open mind and use a little creativity in the kitchen I have adapted two courses of common Nigerian meals that are just as flavourful as their traditional counterparts When you give these recipes a try, be sure to share your feedback with me on social media (@vegannigerian) and I highly encourage you to continue exploring vegan Nigerian meals by checking out the range of recipes on my website www.vegannigerian.com.
PLANTAIN MOSA
A popular Nigerian snack and a great way to use up any overripe plantain at home This recipe deviates from the regular type in that it does not contain any eggs It is best enjoyed on its own, but you can get creative and serve it as a savoury appetiser with salad, or as a sweet dessert with a chocolate, caramel or peanut dipping sauce
Serves 6
Ingredients:
2 overripe plantains
300g wholegrain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp chilli powder
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Coconut oil, for frying
Method
1 Peel and roughly chop the plantains Place in a large mixing bowl and mash with a fork until smooth
2 Add the wholegrain flour, baking powder, salt, chilli powder and nutmeg to the mashed plantains Mix with a wooden spoon until well combined and you have a thick, scoopable batter Leave to rest for 10 minutes
3 Heat some oil in a small frying pan enough for shallow frying
4 Spoon the batter one heap tablespoon at a time into the hot oil They should puff up slightly and rise to the surface Move it around with a slotted spoon until golden brown all over Remove from the oil and drain on some kitchen paper
5 Repeat this process with the rest of the batter, frying in batches of 4-5 depending on the size of your frying pan Reduce the heat from high to medium if they start to brown too quickly.
6 Serve warm as an appetiser
AND BABYMakes Two
WORKOUTS TO SEE YOU THROUGH YOUR PREGNANCY
Congratulations!
You ve just found out that you are pregnant! Exercising is a great way to support your body in your pregnancy journey as long as you do it in a safe way
If you have a safe and healthy pregnancy then you can exercise right up until you give birth to your baby There is no evidence to suggest that exercising is harmful to your baby as long as you do it safely
So, why is it important to work out during pregnancy?
It prepares your body for childbirth
It helps alleviate pregnancy aches and pains
It can boost your mood and energy
It can help you recover faster after childbirth
It can help you sleep better at night
FIRST TRIMESTER
In your first trimester you can mostly exercise the same way you did before pregnancy In this trimester however, there are many things happening internally that will cause you to feel tired maybe even nauseous so it’s important to listen to your body
If you feel like you have enough energy then most exercises like running or spinning are fine, but you might find yourself feeling out of breath more and so may want to reduce the intensity to around 70% of what you did pre-pregnancy If you love classes, Yoga or Pilates are great, however it is important that you let the instructor know that you are pregnant
Strength training is great for all trimesters and if you didn t do any before your pregnancy, then now is a great time to start If you can try to work with a pre and postnatal qualified personal trainer to make sure you are doing all the exercises correctly
Whilst exercising during pregnancy is safe for most women at all stages of pregnancy, it is important to listen to your body and watch out for warning signs
If you experience any of the below, please stop exercising and seek medical attention:
Vaginal Bleeding
Painful contractions that continue after rest
Chest Pain
Shortness of breath
Calf pain or swelling
Feel faint or dizzy
Chest Flys
SECOND TRIMESTER
Most women say that first trimester symptoms such as extreme fatigue and nausea subside in the 2nd trimester and they have a bit more energy This is great as it means you can really focus on building a good workout routine during this stage From 16 weeks onwards y on your stomach You al minutes as this can cause
Although you might find exercise and modify exe exercising at a higher inte want to make sure that yo speak or catch your breath
Sample Exercise Routine:
3 sets per exercise - rest for 30-45 seconds between each exercise
10 -12 Goblet Squats
12-16 Curtsey Lunges
10 -12 Single Leg Deadlifts
10 -12 Shoulder Press
10 -12 Bent Over Rows
12-16 Bird Dogs
Bird Dog
Goblet Squat
Curtsey Lunge
Single Leg Deadlift
THIRD TRIMESTER
In your 3rd trimester, your bump will be getting much bigger, especially towards the end and you might not feel like doing much, but you can still find ways to move that feel good
Swimming is amazing at any stage of pregnancy but especially in the 3rd trimester as being in the water makes you feel weightless
If you suffer from pelvic girdle pain, you’ll want to be mindful of the breast stroke as opening your legs too wide could exacerbate your pain
Another great way to keep up exercising in water is to find a prenatal Aqua Fitness class Most local leisure centres have these classes and they are run by midwives, so you know you are in great hands just be sure that you let them if you have injuries or pelvic girdle pain
As in previous trimesters, strength training remains a great option that you can easily do at home Your workout doesn’t have to be long, 20-30 minutes is plenty at this stage
Sample Exercise Routine:
3 sets per exercise - rest for 45 - 60 seconds between each exercise
12 - 15 Sumo Squats (take your feet into a narrow position if you suffer from pelvic girdle pain)
10 -12 Front to Side Raises
12 -15 Reverse Flyes
12 - 15 Sumo Deadlifts
12 - 15 Tricep Kickbacks
12 -15 Bicep Curls
12 - 15 Dumb Waiters
Funmi Olatoye is a pre and postnatal qualified personal trainer and fitness trainer. You can learn more about her work in women’s health on her wellness platform, Strong For Everyday
(www.strongforeveryday.club)
Front to Side Raises
Sumo Squat
Reverse Flyes
Sumo Deadlift
TricepKickback
BLACK L VE
“I am grateful to have been loved, and to be loved now and to be able to love. Because love liberates.”
- MAYA ANGELOU
TILL THE END OF TIME Caron & Daniel
Where did you meet?
We met at Notting Hill Carnival and have been together for 25 years! We have three daughters – twins aged 23 and a 14-year old
What has been the hardest part of your relationship and how did you overcome it?
Being parents at a young age going through a difficult pregnancy and then finding out the twins had a disability was the hardest thing It was a very challenging time as we had to grow up quickly to support the twins We bonded together through hospital appointments and with our close family unit who we also had support from
Do you ever stop being physically attracted to one another?
The physical attraction is still there after 25 years, we are both in our forties and take great pride in looking after ourselves which helps with the attraction
Does your sex drive disappear after so many years?
Hell no! It actually gets more exciting with age!
How do you keep the spark alive, both emotionally and physically?
We both have a young perspective towards how to live life and enjoy ourselves together
What advice would you give your younger self or the younger generation?
In a relationship life is not a fairy tale, it’s a balance between good times and not so good times What you have to ensure is that you have more good times than bad times Communication is key
LOVERS AND FRIENDS Nicole & Tobbs
How did you meet?
Nicole (N): You have a version and I have a version Tobbs (T): We met at university through friends
N: Tobbs says we met at the club but I don't believe that I think we met at a wedding As they say the rest is history
How long have you been together?
N: We've been together 10 years Today is our 3rd wedding anniversary and we have a two-year old son
What was the hardest situation in your relationship and how did you overcome it?
N: Coming from different countries My family wasn't on board with me marrying outside of Nigeria Tobbs is South African We went through phases of waiting, then thought about eloping We started to plan a small wedding without our parents blessing but at the last minute an aunty saved the day She got my parents \to change their minds Now my parents love Tobbs more than they love me They talk to him more than they talk to me
T: I would agree The cultural differences, getting to know each other, living together You get through that by compromising and learning about each other
How do you keep the spark alive?
T: Be intentional Think about each other and each other’s needs Spend time together do things that make you happy
N: Have something that is your "thing ” For us, every Friday during lockdown we've had a movie night That keeps it alive Its harder when you have children You have to be conscious about planning time together If you are spontaneous, you can use that in your relationship and be spontaneous in planning dates but we prefer to plan
What advice would you give your younger self or the younger generation?
N: Enjoy I wish I had enjoyed myself more allowed myself to try new thing Be the "yes" girl and not think It's going far or too much money
T: Don't be scared to take risks or make mistakes When you are young you think when you make a mistake your life is over, but it really isn't Pursue your passions and dreams Start and fail businesses Before you have kids, before you have too many commitments You've got the rest of your life to learn and recover
N: To add, I would have loved myself more. Be comfortable in your own skin, love yourself fully, commit to yourself fully That’s something I wished I had done more
Do ever stop being physically attracted to each other?
N: No It might be more or less but not stop There's always an underlying attraction
T: No
N: Maybe if I burped or bottom burped in front of you you're probably less attracted in that moment right?
T: Yes but that's not really physical attraction
SPECIAL FEATURES
Saving, paying off debts or investing - what should I do first?
As a first port of call, I do think it is important to have an emergency fund Aim to have a few months worth of savings put away so that you ’ re covered if you lose your job or need to access some cash in an emergency
Once you have an emergency fund saved, as a general rule of thumb it makes sense to pay off high-interest consumer debt before you start saving - especially when the interest rate on your debt is high If you are carrying debt on a credit card, say, at 20 or 30% and saving at 1% in a cash ISA or something no matter how much you save you will always end up paying more in interest to your lender than you will earn in interest
When it comes to investing, paying off your debt is a good idea for similar reasons Generating a 20 to 30% return on your investments year after year would make you one of the greatest investors in recent history, but this is definitely an interest rate you’d end up paying if you had a normal credit card or overdraft so it makes sense to pay off your debts before investing
Should I create a financial calendar? If so, what’s the easiest way to do so?
For me the most important date of the month is the 1st of the month
This is when the vast majority of my bills are taken out and it is also when I do my monthly budget At the start of the month I like to look back at the previous month and see what I’ve spent and I also make a plan for what I would like to spend in the month ahead, making any adjustments if necessary
There’s no need to set up a rigorous financial calendar, but setting up a monthly money date with yourself could go a long way on or as close to the first of the month as possible
What is the best way to stick to a budget?
Try to keeping your day to day spending money in a different bank account from the one that you get paid into This method eliminates the need for you to rigorously stick to a budget as you can focus on managing the money you have left on the spending card throughout the month The new app only banks are very good for doing this (Monzo, Starling, Revolut)
Are there services e.g. apps that can help with budgeting?
I personally use Money Dashboard, you can link all of your bank accounts to it and see them in one place
I think it’s brilliant because it works both on mobile devices and on desktop. App-only budgeting tools like Emma and Yolt are also great and work similarly
Should I get a credit card?
The question isn t really should I get a credit card’, it’s what would I use my credit card for?’ Credit cards are best used when you already have the money for the thing you are paying for and you are essentially using the card to derive some sort of benefit - reward points, cashback, Section 75 purchase protection on items costing more than £100 or to spread the cost of a large purchase
While they can be effective if used well, there is no obligation for anyone to get a credit card and actually, you can do just fine without one Remember that when it comes to using debt, always make sure to use it responsibly and only borrow what you can afford to repay.
the billboard
BALLET BLACK
Ballet Black is a professional ballet company for international dancers of black and Asian descent Ballet Black aims to bring culturally diverse experiences through ballet Ballet Black is celebrating its 20 year anniversary this year with special performances by Olivieraward-winning choreographers
Visit https://balletblack co uk/ to find out more
AFORI BOOKS
Afrori books is an independently owned online bookshop that specialises in books by black authors The current black history book of the month is "100 Great Black Britons by Patrick Vernon,"
To get your copy visit https://afroribooks co uk/
AUTOGRAPH
For over 30 years Autograph has enabled the public to explore race identity representation human rights and social justice through photography Their current exhibition Care | Contagion | Community Self and Other runs from 23 September 2021 to 12 February 2022
Visit Autograph at Rivington Pl, Hackney, London EC2A 3BA
TALAWA
Over the past 30 years, Talawa has become one of the most successful Black theatre companies in the UK. Talawa has worked with writers including Wole Soyinka Kwami KweiArmah Malorie Blackman and Mustapha Matura A Place for We by Archie Maddocks directed by Michael Buffong is currently running
