The Voice Newspaper: August 2024 by THE VOICE NEWSPAPER (UK)

AUGUST 2024 • ISSUE NO. 1957

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Lifestyle IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Vibrance Mas and a focus on sustainability

Glastonbury and Notting Hill Carnival link up again!

£2.50

Sustainable splendour:

Vibrance Mas brings eco-friendly glamour to carnival › p38

CARNIVAL GENERATES £396 MILLION Notting Hill Carnival

EXCLUSIVE A Voice study reveals that Notting Hill Carnival brings a huge economic boost NEW RESEARCH conducted by The Voice has found that the Notting Hill Carnival contributes over £396 million annually to London’s economy. Its impact is seen in the substantial spending on accommodation, food, shopping, entertainment, and travel across the two days of the event. › p4-5

All roads lead to Alvaro Barrington at Tate Britain

Inside THIS MONTH

The Voice says

ROUNDUP NEWSPAPER

News, views, stories & videos

THE 10 MOST POPULAR STORIES ON VOICE-ONLINE.CO.UK

Labour candidate ‘in tears’ after being ordered to abandon Clacton campaign against Nigel Farage.

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Campaigners ask: ‘What happened to the Race Equality Act?’

Abbott triumphs in Hackney North amid Labour landslide election win. Back to the drawing board for Jamaican football.

Black Girl Gone: unearthing the lack of attention for missing Black females

Jamaica’s Independence Day: honouring the past, shaping the future

Lifesaver: how insurance can come to the rescue in times of crisis

Notting Hill Carnival teams up with Glastonbury again

Where it all began: Christine Ohuruogu reflects on an eventful school sports day

Caribbean diaspora calls for action on climate justice

HE RECENT devastation wrought by Hurricane Beryl across the Caribbean has reignited urgent calls from Black Britons of Caribbean heritage for action on climate change. The hurricane, which claimed at least 11 lives and obliterated infrastructure in Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica, serves as a stark reminder of the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable regions. Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell’s poignant declaration that the hurricane is a direct consequence of the climate crisis underscores a harsh reality: Caribbean nations are on the front lines of a catastrophe they did not cause. “We demand and deserve climate justice,” Mitchell asserted, capturing the feelings of a region perennially battered by climate-induced disasters. His frustration was clear when he pointed out the fact that these nations must repeatedly “borrow and rebuild” after each natural disaster while the major polluters offer only “platitudes and tokenism”. Mitchell’s call for climate justice is not an isolated one. It echoes the powerful words of Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who has consistently warned of the existential

This issue is 48 pages EDITOR Vic Motune E. vic.motune@thevoicemedia group.co.uk

CORPORATE AFFAIRS & COMMUNICATIONS Paula Dyke E. paula@thevoicemedia group.co.uk

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Paulette Simpson E. paulette.simpson@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Joel Campbell E. joel.campbell@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk

threat climate change poses to small island developing states (SIDS). Her impassioned plea at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, where she described the crisis as a “death sentence” for Caribbean islands, resonates deeply in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. As our report on page 6 highlights, Black Britons with relatives and friends in the Caribbean are increasingly urging Western governments to heed these calls. Their hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones or seen their homes destroyed. They emphasize that for residents of Grenada, Jamaica, and St Vincent, there is no escape from the relentless impacts of climate change. It affects everything from fishing and farming to daily living. Their message is clear: developed countries must view climate action as an imperative, not an option. They must commit to significant reductions in carbon emissions and provide tangible support to those on the frontlines of this global crisis. Anything less would be an injustice, prolonging the suffering of regions like the Caribbean that are least responsible for, yet most affected by, climate change. No more platitudes: Black Britons demand real climate solutions

Jamaican lands big deal in Leicester. Reggae Girl Chantelle Swaby signs two-year deal with the Foxes.

Zane Maloney: The boy from Barbados on the brink of making it big in Formula 1.

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Birmingham shop ordered to close after ‘racist attack’ on Black couple.

UK community groups launch relief efforts for Caribbean nations hit by Hurricane Beryl.

New Arsenal away shirt draws inspiration from the club’s African supporters.

White Yardie and friends join forces to fundraise for Caribbean victims of Hurricane Beryl.

New platform aims to showcase Caribbean talent globally.

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AUGUST 2024 THE VOICE | 3

News Feature

‘STIRLING’ EFFORT BRINGS MURIEL BACK TO THE PAST Former maid returns to the Scottish hotel that she left Barbados for in 1955, with dementia charity’s help. By Vic Motune

SHEFFIELD-based dementia organisation, a leading charity, and a documentary maker have collaborated to fulfil the dream of a woman with dementia who moved from Barbados to Stirling in 1955. Muriel Richards, part of the Windrush Generation, arrived in this country as part of a government scheme that offered jobs to people from the Caribbean nation during a time of labour shortages in the UK. Mrs Richards made the lifechanging journey to Scotland with her best friend Lottie Bynoe eagerly anticipating new career opportunities. They were recruited to work in Stirling’s Allan Park Hotel and the Kings Hotel, respectively. After joining the Allan Park Hotel staff as a chambermaid alongside Margaret, another chambermaid, and Mrs Little, the cook, Mrs Richards quickly adapted to her new surroundings. The Gillespie family, who owned the hotel, became an integral part of her time working in Scotland, even providing her with a surprise 21st birthday celebration. She eventually left Stirling to travel south to Sheffield, for a job with bigger wages. It was a move that she immediately regretted, but sadly Mrs Richards was not able to return to work in Stirling. Despite her initial dislike for Sheffield, Mrs Richards made a life for herself in the city, working in the canteen at Sheffield’s Fir Vale Hospital (previously the Workhouse) and later as an auxiliary nurse at the Northern General. Almost 70 years since she first saw Stirling, Mrs Richards – now living with dementia – recently fulfilled a long-held dream of returning to the city, supported by the Sheffield Memory Hub and the Dementia Trust. Her return to the city where she had lived and worked for several

GROUP SINGALONG: During her trip Mrs Richards (centre, in grey cardigan) met with the local Town Break Dementia Support Group, where the choir performed some of her favourite gospel songs

with dementia. If we all spend some time understanding how to engage in a culturally meaningful way, it will make progress happen.” He added: “Muriel’s return to Stirling is more than just a personal journey; it is an opportunity to raise awareness about dementia, the importance of reminiscence, and the deep historical ties between Scotland and Barbados. “We will highlight how individuals can live well with dementia with the right support and underREMINISCENCE: Muriel standing. ” Richards during her return to Sonia Mangan from the Dethe Allan Park Hotel in Stirling mentia Trust said that the film where she worked in the 1950s Carl Case made about Muriel’s trip would help spark important discussions iting the coach journeys she took among practitioners and the wider with Lottie. years was a four-day affair that saw public about how to better support This special trip was primarily her revisit places that held signifi- funded by the Dementia Trust people from African-Caribbean cant memories for her. communities who are living with and led by Carl Case, whose She stayed at her former place of organisation Cultural Appropriate dementia. employment, the Allan Park Hotel, Resources works internationally “The reason why we funded the as a VIP guest. video is we support small ideas to make a difference to people As an active dementia advocate with dementia from African and that can make change happen. and campaigner, she also met with African-Caribbean communities. From our perspective, if some practhe local Town Break Dementia titioners see this film, and actually NEW ARRIVALS: Muriel and her friend Lottie Bynoe came He has produced a short film Support Group, where the choir that explores Muriel’s life, her expe- change the way in which they work to Stirling in 1955 after responding to a recruitment campaign performed some of her favourite with somebody like Mrs Richards, riences living with dementia, and gospel songs. Muriel also cothe historical connections between and engage with them in a differ- descent is bigger than what people that has dementia. It’s also more talked about in print and social facilitated a session focusing on ent way, then that’s fantastic. The anticipate. And the only way of Scotland and Barbados. media but the discussions are still Scottish-Barbadian cultural and film helps people to learn by con- actually really making sure that Case said: “We are aiming to historical links. necting with an emotional story, a services and help is tailor-made is predominantly centred around provide a valuable resource, highby people talking about it. White people. Her visit also included a meal at lighting the positive aspects of liv- personal story.” “I think that people do have “We need discussions with peothe Green Gates Indian Restaurant, ing well with dementia, especially Mangan continued: “It’s more understanding that dementia ple of colour on this so that there formerly the Kings Hotel where for African-Caribbean and African important to get people to start exists. You see it in the storylines is a diversity of thinking about her friend Lottie worked, the new communities. Mrs Richards’ story talking about the issues because of popular TV soaps, or there is compelling, but not unique. how we care for people living with Stirling open-top bus tour, and a the prevalence for dementia, for nostalgic tour of Edinburgh, revis- More and more people are living people from African and Caribbean might be a show with a character dementia.”

“Muriel’s return to Stirling is more than just a personal journey – it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about dementia”

20 | THE VOICE AUGUST 2024

Opinion

News

Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion

Parliament is more diverse, with 13 per cent ethnic minority members, but this does not guarantee policies addressing racial inequalities, representation alone isn’t sufficient, says Vic Motune THE RECENT UK General Election marked a historic milestone, delivering the most ethnically diverse Parliament the nation has ever seen. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following a resounding victory, now oversees a legislative body where 13 per cent of its members are from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds. This is an undeniable achievement, showcasing progress from the days when Diane Abbott, the first Black female MP, entered a House of Commons where only 41 women were present. Yet, as we celebrate this diversity, it is crucial to confront an uncomfortable truth: diversity in representation does not inherently translate to policies that address the deeply rooted racial inequalities Black Britons face. While representation is vital, it is not a panacea. The expectation that a Parliament that looks more like Britain will naturally champion the needs of its diverse population is a hopeful yet simplistic view. The reality, as many Black Britons have experienced, is that the presence of ethnic minority MPs does not guarantee a commitment to racial equality. For instance, the silence of Black Conservative MPs during the backlash to the Sewell Report – which controversially denied institutional racism in the UK – was a profound disappointment for many in our community. This silence is indicative of a broader issue where minority MPs in high office often prioritise personal advancement over advocating for systemic change. This phenomenon can be attributed to several interrelated factors. Firstly, the structure and culture of political parties in the UK often compel MPs to align with the party line, especially those who are relatively new or from minority backgrounds who may feel a heightened pressure to prove their loyalty and competence. This environment can stifle dissent and discourage MPs from taking bold stances

WHY ETHNIC REPRESENTATION IN PARLIAMENT WON’T TACKLE RACISM

on contentious issues such as racial inequality. Moreover, the political landscape itself is inherently competitive. MPs, regardless of their background, navigate a system where career progression is contingent on securing influential positions and gaining favour with party leadership. For many minority MPs, there is a palpable fear that vocal advocacy for racial justice might be perceived as divisive or as playing into identity politics, which could hinder their political ascent. Consequently, they may choose the safer route of focusing on issues that are less likely to provoke controversy or backlash from their party or constituents. Additionally, the visibility of minority MPs in high office can sometimes be weaponised by political parties as a shield against accusations of systemic racism. The presence of figures like Rishi Sunak, Priti Patel, and Kemi Badenoch is often touted as evidence of the party’s commitment to diversity, even as their policies and public statements may undermine

Starmer’s administration has a chance to break from the past and address these deep-seated issues

progress on racial equality. This tokenistic approach allows parties to deflect criticism without making substantive changes to address the structural inequalities that persist. The Sewell Report serves as a poignant example. When it controversially concluded that the UK is not institutionally racist, it garnered support from some Black Conservative MPs who defended the findings despite widespread criticism from the Black community and racial justice advocates.

Their defence of the report exemplifies the complex interplay between personal ambition and community advocacy. By aligning with the party’s narrative, these MPs may have sought to solidify their standing within the party, even at the expense of betraying the very communities they are expected to represent. The new Parliament includes a record number of female lawmakers and an unprecedented number of ethnic minority MPs within the governing party. However, as we witnessed during the Conservative tenure, a diverse cabinet featuring figures like Sunak, Patel, and Suella Braverman did not halt the perpetuation of harmful policies such as the “hostile environment,” which led to the Windrush scandal. This scandal, resulting in wrongful deportations and denied services to British Caribbeans, epitomizes the systemic racism that persists despite the diversity at the top. For Black Britons, representation must go beyond mere presence. It must embody

a genuine commitment to antiracism and the dismantling of structural inequalities. The findings of The Voice’s Black British Voices Project, published in 2023, highlighted a stark disenchantment with the current political landscape. An overwhelming 94 per cent of respondents believe the UK government is failing to adequately address issues affecting Black communities. This sentiment is exacerbated by repeated government reports on racial disparities that many see as superficial and disconnected from their lived experiences. What Black Britons seek are not just more Black faces in Parliament but politicians who place anti-racism at the core of their agenda. The Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 and the widespread dissatisfaction reflected in the Black British Voices Project underscore a growing disillusionment with formal politics. There is a clear call for a shift from symbolic representation to substantive action. Starmer’s administration has an

opportunity to break from the past and address these deepseated issues. However, this requires more than celebrating diversity; it demands confronting the policies and practices that maintain racial inequalities. It involves listening to Black Britons, acting on their concerns, and implementing recommendations such as those from the Windrush Lessons Learned Review – something the previous government failed to fully commit to. While the diversity of the new Parliament is a step forward, it is not the end goal. The true measure of progress will be in how this Parliament addresses the systemic barriers facing Black Britons. We need politicians who will champion anti-racist policies and ensure that the lived experiences of all citizens shape the future of the UK. Only then can we move beyond diversity and towards genuine equality.

AUGUST 2024 THE VOICE | 21

#KINGSCROSS3 ARE CLEARED OF CHARGES

News

JUBILATION: #KingsCross3, Dan ae Thomas, Selma Taha and Divina Riggon (Photo: Southall Black Sisters)

Selma Taha, executive director of Southall Black Sisters, criticised ‘institutionally racist system’ after charges against her and two friends were dropped. By Vic Motune

HE EXECUTIVE director of a Black women’s group criticised what she calls the “institutionally racist system” after assault charges against her and two friends were dropped. Selma Taha, the executive director of Southall Black Sisters (SBS), had been due to stand trial along with her friends Divina Riggon and Danae Thomas having been charged with assaulting a woman in King’s Cross Underground station last year. They claimed they were the victims of a violent racist attack. However, the CPS decided to drop the case before the trial began, citing the fact that the evidence available was not enough as in their estimation, the available evidence was insufficient to support a realistic prospect of a conviction. Ms Taha told supporters who had gathered outside the court, that she and her friends had been the victims of a violent racist attack and they had been “disbelieved and criminalised” for challenging the abuse. She said: “As relieved as I am about the decision being in our favour, this has been hardfought and I continue to feel aggrieved at the treatment my sisters and I have received. “I expected more responsibility and a duty of care from (the CPS), to being disbelieved and criminalised by the CPS for challenging the racist abuse. The past 10 months have reaffirmed my lack of faith in the system and served as a daily reminder of the challenges we are up against as black, minoritised and migrant victim-survivors seeking a just response from an institutionally racist system.” Ms Taha added: “As the Executive Director of a ‘by and for’ violence against women and girls (VAWG) organisation such as SBS, at each stage, I’ve also worried about other Black women being in my position, knowing that not all of them

have the platform I do to raise awareness about the systemic injustice we are subjected to on a daily basis.” The three women said they were verbally and physically assaulted while travelling from Camden Town to King’s Cross in September last year. However, it later emerged that an off-duty Metropolitan Detective Constable was present in the tube carriage but failed to intervene to de-escalate the incident. When the train arrived at King’s Cross station, the three women challenged the officer about why he had taken no action to intervene or arrest the attacker. Later, in a development that shocked the three women, they were charged with assault by beating following the incident. Ms Riggon was also charged with harassment and Ms Thomas was accused of racially aggravated harassment, but both counts were discontinued. A petition, launched on Change.org calling on the CPS to drop the charges received over 36,000 signatures. The alleged attacker had already been cautioned for racially aggravated conduct under the Public Order Act, and no further action was taken. A spokesperson for Southall Black Sisters said: “While the discontinuance of the racist charges on the #KingsCross3 should be celebrated, this case has demonstrated the depth of the issue of Black women being disbelieved and criminalised when they resist abuse. At a time of crisis for Black women with data showing Black femicide and other forms of abuse reaching calamitous figures, this case and the treatment of the three Black women involved should send alarm bells ringing.” A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep all cases under continuous review and following information received in the past few days, we decided that there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.”

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26 | THE VOICE AUGUST 2024

Midlands News Region now has a new look as Labour takes control after securing landslide in the UK election

STAR TURN: EastEnders actor Nick Bailey, left, and West Midlands mayor Richard Parker, who gains major support from the TV star, flank Jake Collins, the recipient of an Adult Learning Award, as part of their bid to restore more pride in their region

ONSTITUENCIES ACROSS the Midlands are adjusting to a radically altered political scene following the General Election which has seen large swings from Conservative to Labour. The vote also saw the growing influence of independents and candidates from smaller parties, also pro-Gaza (and typically anti-Labour) campaigns and a climate of fear and intimidation shrouding a number of keenly contested seats. If 2019 saw the building of a blue wall, with the Conservatives claiming 48 of the 63 constituents across the region to Labour’s 15, the Midlands electorate have repainted it in large swathes of red, with the Conservatives now holding 15 of the 61 available seats. Labour’s total now stands at 40, including Juliet Campbell in the Nottinghamshire constituency of Broxtowe. The rise of smaller parties is clear: the Tories and Conservatives shared all of the Midlands’ seats in 2019. Now the Liberal Democrats control four seats, with the Independents and Green Party one each. The Solihull West & Shirley constituency, where Ade Adeyemo unsuccessfully bid to win the historically Tory seat, demonstrates their impact. Ade’s 17 per cent of the vote was almost matched (15 per cent) by Reform UK, with the Green Party taking seven per cent. This, with an uncharacteristically strong showing from Labour (25 per cent), contributed to a narrow Tory hold, returning 35 per cent. The Gaza issue proved decisive on both sides of the Midlands. The presence of several independent candidates on the ballot split the vote enough to unseat Labour stalwarts: veteran Keith Vaz in Leicester East, and Jonathan Ashworth with his 22,000 majority, in Leicester South. Birmingham Perry Barr’s Khalid Mahmood saw his 23-year tenure as Labour MP end in favour of Independent Ayoub Khan’s Gazan-influenced campaign. Vociferous pro-Palestine supporters have seen an uptick in calls for police assistance, principally from female Labour candidates in Birmingham, with Yardley’s Jess Phillips and Ladywood’s Shabana Mahmood alleging their campaigns have been dogged by harassment, intimidation, verbal abuse and vandalism en route to

WILL POLITICAL CHANGE BE A SHIFT IN THE TIDES? TOP TEAM: Derbyshire PCC Nicolle Ndiweni with East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward

VICTORY: Labour’s Juliet Campbell is Broxtowe’s new MP

retaining their seats, albeit with massively reduced majorities. This darkening of the political scene in some quarters is juxtaposed with renewed optimism in others. Perhaps emboldened by the presence of a Labour leader at Number 10, regional mayors and Police and Crime Commissioners (PPCs) are making their own requests of the new administration. WATERSHED Fresh from his watershed victory over two-term Tory incumbent Andy Street, the new West Midlands mayor Richard Parker has wasted no time in launching a youth employment plan calling for local business to collaborate

on the creation of thousands of placements, training opportunities and apprenticeships. While rising youth unemployment is a national issue, it is double the national average in areas including Walsall, Wolverhampton and Birmingham. “We are proud to support the youth unemployment plan for the West Midlands,” said Rob Perrins, chief executive of Berkeley Group. “We are pleased that the mayor supports programmes helping locals access job opportunities. Together, we can create a brighter future for the West Midlands, ensuring young people have the best start in life and the skills needed for prosperous careers.” Parker, whose allies include

former EastEnders actor Nick Bailey, said: “This plan will focus on skills and employment and will include work coach support, pre-employment training in growing sectors with a guaranteed interview, as well as fully funded training up to level three, and access to debt and careers advice. “It was the West Midlands that offered me my greatest chance to get on in life when aged 16 I left school, unsure of my future. I want it to be the region that gives young people the best possible start in life, with good quality jobs, the support they need to feel ready for work and the ability to progress in their careers – this is why we are launching the initial phase of our

West Midlands youth plan – our regional approach to delivering the national government’s youth guarantee. I call upon businesses and learning providers in the region to continue their work with us to open up a further 20,000 new training or work placements.” SCRUTINY Meanwhile, the West Midlands PCC appears emboldened to repeat requests served on previous prime ministers since he assumed the role in May 2021. As the force continues under the weight of scrutiny and poor community relations, Simon Foster is calling for additional funds to help rebuild community policing by boosting

officer numbers and replenish the Violence Reduction Partnership, principally to help cut knife crime. In the East Midlands, Derbyshire’s new PCC Nicolle Ndiweni is allying with the region’s new mayor Claire Ward in calling on residents to engage with an unprecedented new survey to help shape policing across the county over the next four years. Seeking to inform where resources and funding should be prioritised, the survey is said to mark the beginning of “an intense programme of engagement” for Ndiweni who has “vowed to put people first during her tenure, and ensure all communities are represented.

AUGUST 2024 THE VOICE | 27

By Veron Graham

If you have a story for the East or West Midlands, call /text Veron Graham on 07954 572 988, email veronpgraham@gmail.com, or find him on Facebook, LinkedIn and X

PAYING HOMAGE TO THE GREAT EGBERT CARLESS Birmingham’s first non-White elected official finally gets the recognition he truly deserves

MID THE focus the future preelection periods naturally centre on, a recent gathering at the home of Birmingham politics gave a nod to the ground-breaking achievements of the late Alderman Egbert Carless OBE, the Second City’s first non-White elected official. Fondly known as ‘Bert,’ Carless broke ground in May 1979 by representing the Aston ward and has been honoured with a portrait taking pride of place in Birmingham’s historic Council House in an event attended by local VIPs, friends, family and former colleagues, including the Lord Mayor and Council leaders. The portrait was commissioned and donated in agreement with the Vice Chancellor of Birmingham City University, Professor David Mba, in collaboration with Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo of Birmingham Empowerment Forum and the Windrush National Organisation. The unveiling of the portrait in the House’s main corridor where the cabinet meets on what would have been Bert’s 91st birthday, is the continuation of a 13-year campaign led by Bishop Jaddoo, a former protege of Carless, which has resulted in a road in the nearby Perry Barr area (‘Bert Carless Way’) being named after him, and a blue plaque installed at South & City College Birmingham (more commonly known by its former moniker Handsworth College) where Carless was the Chair of Governors for almost 20 years. “It was a great occasion, the coming together of years of work attended by all of the necessary stakeholders to honour Bert,” Bishop Jaddoo told The Voice. “A lot of the VIPs who spoke all knew him, even though it’s been 21 years since his death.” The event doubled as both professional and personal for the Bishop, as he explained: “When my dad died in Jamaica and I came back to the UK (in the late 1970s), my mother was politically

PROUD MOMENT: Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo with Professor David Mba, Vice Chancellor of Birmingham City University, and the portrait of Alderman Egbert Carless OBE

“I felt there wasn’t any respect shown to him. I raised it in 2011, but no one was taking the first step.”

- Bishop Desmond Jaddoo

active and was pushing for Bert to become a Labour councillor in Aston. On meeting the preteenage Jaddoo and empathising for his loss, Bert offered himself as ‘someone to talk to and pledged to take me under his wing.’ I thought he must be joking.” Prophesying he would “become one of tomorrow’s leaders,” every Saturday morning he would take the young Jaddoo. He would also accompany Carless’ walkabouts through the ward. “When he died, it was as though he never existed.”

Stymied by personal circumstances during Carless’ illness and subsequent death, once Jaddoo recovered and became active again, the quest began to put some respect on Carless’ name. “I felt there wasn’t any respect shown to him. I remember raising it in 2011, many agreed with me but no one was taking the first step. After years of writing to leaders, we grabbed the bull by the horns.” Having engaged Wassim Zaffar, then cabinet Member for Transport & Environment at Birmingham City Council, momentum began to build, with the naming of ‘Bert Carless Way,’ followed by the blue plaque. With Bishop Jaddoo as defacto co-ordinator, the wheels began turning at Birmingham City University towards the creation of a portrait with the support of its Vice Chancellor Mba, who was well aware of Bert’s storied history. This culminated in the stunningly accurate portrait by BCU alumni Emily Sparkes. Bishop Jaddoo added: “I’m pleased and proud to say the portrait stands prominently in the Council House. It is fitting

SPECIAL DAY: Claude Tomlinson, Egbert’s nephew, artist Emily Sparkes, John Cotton, Simon Foster and Ken Wood

we honour our elders, and this will inspire young people to go into politics because they’ll walk into that Council House and see a portrait of a Black man with a plaque next to it. Bert was about organising and galvanising the strength of our community. A lot of it has been lost, but we’re trying to rejuvenate it and structure towards moving forward. We’ve

received the baton, and I include myself in this, and instead of sprinting with it we’ve jogged.” Talks are underway to launch a heritage display in the College featuring portraits of prominent local people like Bert, also the likes of Lord Bill Morris, the first Black leader of a major trade union as ex-General Secretary of the Transport and General

Workers’ Union; Cllr Sybil Spence, Europe’s first Black Lord Mayor, and James Hunt, who built the Muhammad Ali Centre. Referencing the young charge he’s now mentoring, Bishop Jaddoo concluded: “There is no point asking where our young people are. We need to bring them along with us on the journey – like Bert did with me.”

38 | THE VOICE AUGUST 2024

Lifestyle

Carnival

VIBRANCE MAS MAKING A POWERFUL STATEMENT East Londoner’s procession band bringing sustainability to the forefront. By Joel Campbell

T’D BE easier to just procure the materials for her band’s Notting Hill Carnival costumes from the ‘usual sources’, but that would fly in the face of what Cee is building with Vibrance Mas. As one of the few female band leaders ‘on de road’ at one of the biggest street parties in the world, Cee has her work cut out as a matter of course, but add to that dynamic her insistence that all of her creations encompass an ethos of sustainability, well, things get that little bit more difficult. The east Londoner’s desire to ensure that she maintains a presence at Notting Hill Carnival speaks to her resilience and passion to bring to life the ‘traditional’ aspect of Carnival, paying homage to ‘our ancestors’. Lifestyle has followed the Vibrance Mas journey over the last few years and ardent readers will resonate with Cee’s determination to deliver on what she calls, ‘her calling’, In a recent discussion, the entrepreneur explained that there were times when she felt her mission to stick steadfast to her goal of delivering each year, seemed unobtainable. “Not everyone gets it,” she shared. “People go to carnivals to have a good time. Brands that might sponsor bands and trucks want exposure. Very little is discussed about how we sustain. We just go from year to year. It’s tough for the little vendor, band leader. “There are green shoots through. Carnival really brought the issue of sustainability to the fore a couple of years ago and

CREATIVE FORCE: Vibrance Mas leader Cee

were proactive in presenting the option of electric floats. “More things like this need to be shed a light on, not just from the heads of Carnival here, but around the world, everyone involved to be honest.” Putting her money where her mouth is, this year Vibrance Mas, in partnership with the Ocean Recovery Project and

While efforts to keep our streets clean are well-known, it’s equally vital to turn attention to the oceans

Keep Britain Tidy, have presented a signature line of captivating costumes for the upcoming Notting Hill Carnival. Hand-crafted from delicate fishing nets recovered from the ocean, the intricate designs highlight the urgency of environmental stewardship in addition to the richness of Carnival. Cee said: ”More than just a spectacle, Mas is the art of cultural storytelling. “In celebration of tradition and sustainability, our costumes embody a crucial narrative of environmental responsibility, linking the vibrancy of carnival with the urgent need to protect our natural world. “By using materials recovered by the Ocean Recovery Project, we are not only celebrating the creativity and heritage of Carnival but also making a powerful statement about the importance of sustainability.” The Ocean Recovery Project, an initiative by Keep Britain Tidy, focuses on removing harmful plastics and other waste from our oceans, helping to restore marine ecosystems and promote sustainability. Cee added: “While efforts to keep our streets clean are well-known, it’s equally vital to turn attention to the oceans – the lifeblood of our planet. “Our oceans are home to precious ecosystems that are intimately connected to our wellbeing.

INTRICATE: Costumes are hand-crafted from delicate fishing nets “By repurposing fishing nets into beautiful costumes, Vibrance Mas has worked with Ocean Recovery Project’s aim to raise awareness about the need to protect vital habitats.” She added: “I’m not going to stop beating the drum on the importance of this and will use everything at my

EYE-CATCHING: Vibrance Mas masqueraders will stand out from the crowd

disposal through Carnival to do so. Let’s face it, Carnival has a lot of eyes on it every year. “The biggest threat to our islands and the world at large is global warming. By showcasing these costumes, we hope to draw attention to the urgent need for action against climate change. “Our initiative underscores that sustainability and beauty can go hand-in-hand, inspiring others to think creatively about how they can contribute to environmental protection.” The ethos is striking a chord with brands that have a front facing approach to both enjoying and maintaining the world we live in. This year Vibrance will be sponsored by haircare and beauty brand, Mielle. The brand, distributed in more than 87 countries and can be found in more than 100,000 stores across America, was created by

Monique Rodriguez, a registered nurse, wife and mother of two girls, who desired to share her healthy hair journey using products with healthy ingredients to achieve amazing results Speaking in the run up to the big two days this month, a UK spokesperson for the company said: “Mielle is absolutely delighted to be sponsoring Vibrance Mas Band at Notting Hill Carnival. “As a natural hair care brand, we love supporting from the grassroots level and appreciate how Vibrance Mas promotes beauty in its natural form while empowering young people and teenagers. “We are excited to be part of this year’s carnival and collaborating with Vibrance Mas to celebrate diversity and creativity.” Offering Notting Hill Carnivalgoers a chance to wear something that is not only beautiful, but meaningful, Vibrance Mas masqueraders are set to stand out for a multitude of reasons this year.

AUGUST 2024 THE VOICE | 39

Music

Lifestyle

SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT…

MUSIC IN HIS DNA : Mical Teja hopes soca will continue to evolve

Joel Campbell goes to Carnival for the Soca, what about you?

OR ME, Notting Hill Carnival, or any carnival for that matter, is all about the soca. Yes, all the music combined very much maketh the two-day event, but it’s the sounds of soca filling my ears I look forward to most. We don’t often, if ever, get to see the universal impact of soca, the love we have for it, on such a large scale in the UK. I was recently sitting in the preevent St Kitts Music Festival press conference listening to some of the hottest names in the genre speak on the state of play in their part of the music industry. Their thoughts on what it would take to be bigger, better, more impactful and progressive, were shared for over an hour. St Kitts, many will know, is the home of Byron Messia, who,

let’s face it, had everyone singing Talibans on the streets at Notting Hill Carnival last year as his tune swept the world. But that wasn’t a soca track. Could a soca track bang like that this year? Soca, for me, has never been more popular and accessible as it is today. I left the press conference very impressed by all of the things that had been discussed. In particular, it was Cultural award-winning recording artist, songwriter and music producer, Mical Teja, who left the biggest impression on me. Forthright, confident and clear on the ‘why’ he does music, Teja impressed the need for artists in the space to keep up the musical experimentation currently being seen, or risk dire consequences. “Music on the whole is an evolution and just like any other

genre, soca has evolved a lot.” He added: “However, evolution is with the sonics but also with the way that it is delivered. “I’m judging things from how carnival in Trinidad and Tobago energy is, right? So yes, we jump and wave but we have evolved to where we are listening to the music and appreciating the lyrical content and finding ourselves in this euphoric feeling. “With that now, the music has to follow this euphoric feeling, meaning if I sing in a lyrical composition ‘put up your hand, jump and wave, put up your hand, jump and wave’, that is 1995. We are in 2024. “I don’t really want to hear ‘jump and wave’ in the song. I will jump and wave if I am having a good time. “I need to feel a storyline, I need

to feel something in a modern space. So I think with that, we need fresh tones.” Explaining what he meant by outlining his process of creation for his song DNA, a track sure to go down very well at carnival, Teja said: “With DNA, we started off with a guitar melody, mostly from a pop-oriented feeling and then we added soca drums and experimented… so that anybody that may not be familiar with soca, they will be familiar with a really great pop melody that they can fall in love with.” That euphoric feeling is what gets you swirling around with no cares in the world, whether

you’ve consumed a bit of rum or not. Like Bob Marley sang, “one thing about good music, when it hits, you feel no pain”. It’s a feeling that takes over my body when I hear the likes of Adam O, Kez Band, Machel Montana and so many more. And I love the variety in soca nowadays. Every region of the Caribbean is out and proud with their distinct twist on the sound. Be it Jab Jab in Grenada or Bouyon in Dominica, the varying tempos and differing musical adherences from heavy on the steel band or heavy on the bass and drums to being coupled with complex lyrical cadence

and composition, it’s a rich time. Teja is adamant the exploration and striving for excellence must continue. He added: “I think it’s very important now where soca is to experiment because music on the global landscape is genreless, it’s a lot of mixing and matching. “Look at dancehall now, it’s not the same foundation of the dub, it’s kind of trap because, once again, music is becoming genreless, it’s becoming whatever vibe you choose to portray. “So it’s very important now for soca to experiment but still keep the essence and the feel of what soca is.” Echoing Mical’s sentiments, Pumpa, hailing from the Virgin Islands said: “I think on a whole, we need the soca music to be a melting pot.” He added: “Just like Afrobeats and the hip-hop genre, they have the LA sound, they have the Atlanta sound, they have the New York sound, they have different regions that make up the hip-hop genre. “The Bouyon, the VI Bram, the Trini soca, the Bajan bashment, these different sounds, we need to keep experimenting and making sure we come together as one sound to push the genre forward.”

Here are the top 10 tracks Joel is looking forward to hearing at this year’s Notting Hill Carnival: Ricky T – Look Something To Talk About l Lyrikal – Loner l Pumpa – The A List l Patrice Roberts – Somebody l Mical Teja – DNA l Lyrikal – Rukshun l Patrice Roberts – Tender l Problem Child – Nasty Up l Badjohn Republic – Something In The Water l Zeek – Wet It Up

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