ISSUE 23/SUMMER 2022
VOCALISE
FREE
YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FOR: ST. PAULS, ST. WERBURGHS, ST. AGNES, MONTPELIER
APRIL - JULY
Welcome! To the summer edition of Vocalise.
One sure way of injecting a bit of positivity into your life is by getting involved in your community and in this edition of Vocalise there is a call out for St Werburghs picnic in the park, why not volunteer or come along and mingle! Music always uplifts me and we have a spotlight on Zed Regal talking about his musical journey and ACE a fabulous youth organisation with their own record label. Lakota’s 30 th birthday fun gets a positive review too. Talking of positive energy, it was great to go to the Wiper and True pre-launch party in their newest venue, the Old Market Taproom. Thanks Wiper and True for this, we had lots of fun! Pictured Here. The Caafi team have some tips for your wellbeing and you could even try some forest therapy with the Human Nature project. Keep your vibes high and stay cool this summer! Lucille & The Vocalise Team
3 4-5
Local Artist: Hilary Finch St. Werbughs Community Centre Skidangleboom Book Review Book Feature Caafi Health Lakota Update from Vocalise Aspiration Creation Elevation Common Ambition Bristol Wonderful Woodlands
6-7 8 9 10-11 12 13 14-15 16-17 18
vocalisemagazine.org @vocaliseBristol Published by: Vocalise Bristol CIC Backfields House Upper York Street Bristol BS2 8QJ
Vocalise Bristol CIC
Co-ordinated and designed by: Julia Widz Thanks to all our volunteers and directors. Vandna Mehta (Founder) Hilary Finch (Director) //Kabbo Ferdinand (Director) Judit Davis (Director) Julia Widz (Project Coordinator) Lucille Smith Rhian Grant Ian Jones Judith McMullen Ingrid Devoux Sebright Printers Also special thanks to all our contributors.
Contents Welcome
info@vocalisemagazine.org @vocaliseBristol
I hope you are enjoying the warm weather we are having. As I write this I am hiding from the heat in my cool kitchen but I know it won’t be long until I am missing this warm weather especially with the increasing costs. We have to stay positive!
2
This is YOUR community magazine if you’d like to be involved get in touch!
19
St. Pauls Adventure Playground 20 Fairfield High School 21 Life2020 22 Ukraine 22 Thoughts From an Oldie 23 Playing Out 24 Poetry 26 Vocalise Sucess Story 27 What's On 28-29 Puzzles and Sudoku 30 You Councillors Say 31 Police Update
Front cover: Mural on Lakota's bulding. Vectors and photos from: Vecteezy.com.
Please reuse this magazine. Share it,
LOCAL ARTIST
Introducing...
Here and Now By Hilary Finch
It's the evening I am sitting in the garden smoking, drinking tea, thinking, playing on my phone. The interfering ads stop me so I'm looking up at the sky then listening, watching movement made by the blowing wind moving through the plants. Sparrows are flying, chirping and music is playing two gardens away. Suddenly the screeching of an electric saw breaking the peace that sitting in my garden is giving.
To be included in the next issue send your photos to info@vocalisemagazine.org Deadline is the 5th of September. The best submission will be used for our front cover!
Advertise Here!
Do you want to promote your business or event? Vocalise reaches over 10,000 residents per issue.
Do you want to support your local area? Vocalise has the community at its heart. Get in touch...
info@vocalisemagazine.org Prices start at just £35 Discount available for multiple issue ads!
COMMUNITY NEWS
St Werburghs
Community Centre Picnic in the Park 2022 We will be hosting our annual Picnic in the Park in Mina Road Park on Sunday 11th September. This popular, fun-filled event is a chance for us to celebrate our community by getting together with food, music, workshops and stalls. In previous years we’ve had everything from circus skills and African drumming to graffiti workshops and Indian head massage. We’re currently looking for people to support this sustainable community-led event in various ways: • Sponsors: we haven’t secured funding for this year’s event, so if you’re a business who would like to support an element of the event or even be the headline sponsor then please do get in touch. • Workshop leaders to run activities or entertainment: do you offer dance classes, drumming sessions or art workshops? Maybe you have expertise in flower-arranging, singing or even hula-hooping that you’d like to share with the community? Let us know if you’d like to get involved. • Volunteers: we are looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to help with the event. Please get in touch if you can help. If you’re a local business, musician, workshop leader or member of the community who would like to support, run a stall or volunteer, then please do get in touch: office@stwerburghs.org.uk or 0117 955 1351.
4
Super Saturday Open Day Join us for food, drink, activities, stalls, music and more - there will be lots to enjoy for children and adults alike! Younger visitors can have fun exploring our new playhouses in the Centre’s community garden and grown-ups can browse the market stalls or find out how they can support St Werburghs Foodshare. Our wonderful café Neck of the Woods will be open offering a tasty selection of savoury dishes, sweet treats and delicious drinks. The Centre’s Trustees will also be running a User Forum to gather feedback from the community. If you would like to book a stall, hold a talk, workshop, taster session or presentation then get in touch and we’ll try to fit you in: office@stwerburghs.org.uk Parent partners will need to commit to around one day a month until November 2022 and will be paid for their time and any travel, although most meetings will take place online and so parent partners will also need access to the internet.
COMMUNITY NEWS
St Werburghs Business Hub We are very excited to announce that we have partnered with North East Bristol Enterprise Support / YKTO to run a business hub here at the Centre. This is a free support programme offering in-person and online guidance to help entrepreneurs in Bristol get started or grow their business ideas. We will be hosting workshops as well as being able to support a few participants with free room hire that could help them launch their business idea. In addition to this we will be making a small hot-desking space available to people that would benefit from working on their business away from their home. For more details or to find out how to get involved visit www.stwerburghs. org.uk/businesshub.
For more news about our Super Saturday Open Day, Picnic in the Park, Business Hub launch event and all of our other projects please visit our website and social media for updates: www.stwerburghs.org.uk Facebook: StWerburghsCommunityCentre Instagram: stwerbscommunityc Twitter: StWerbsCC
5
LOCAL ARTIST
SKIDANGLEBOOM SkiDangleBOOM! Is not only the Catchy phrase chanted in Zed Regal’s latest bootyshaking track, but is also a multipurpose word that means 'The balance in all things'. One of his tracks; “Kicking up a Storm” is an apt description of the gusto he is hitting the scene with. I feel we are witnessing the dawn of an amazing and diverse musical talent. He is blessed with the rare ability to be equally skilled, dextrous and lyrical in both Reggae and Hip Hop. He backs this up by releasing two tracks simultaneously, one a Reggae tune and the other a Hip Hop track, and he’s been booked for various festivals, including Glastonbury.
KF: So without any further ado, Regal! Tell da people dem, who you are?” ZR: Skidangleboom! My name is Zed Regal. I’m a recording artist, singer, songwriter and an all-around creative, that’s me!
6
The Journey of the artist: Zed Regal Written by //Kabbo Ferdinand KF: What exciting things are going on in the world of Zed Regal? ZR: I’m in a place of new beginnings, so everything seems exciting at the moment. I’m gassed about performing at Glastonbury and the freedom to share my music and products with the world, especially after the pandemic we’ve all faced. KF: What attracted you to Bristol and what’s your origin story? ZR: In short, Music. I love the city's creative energy and the opportunities it gave me to work with community projects that utilized my creativity and personal development skills as tools to deliver empowering workshops. Through promoting my music and creating opportunities for the artists around my label is how Bristol became my third home. I grew up in Peckham, South London. After a major accident that messed up my leg and changed my life, I moved to live with my family in Swindon. Growing up there in my teenage years was a challenge racially, but definitely a blessing - as it taught me how to deal with different sides of life for my highest good. Racism or prejudice wasn't something I ever came across growing up in London, so I’m grateful for the multi-cultured environments that nurtured my early years highlighting the importance visual representation of blackness and equality in society. In my twenties, I came to a crossroad where I'd ask myself questions like "What am I good at?" "What am I interested in?" and "Who am I?" When you've only experienced a limited way of living, transforming can be hard. For me, it started with answering and actioning the self-revealing questions that ultimately changed the direction of my life. My journey was sticky, though the experiences, good or bad, were all a blessing. KF: Is there anyone you considered as role models and what was the turning point?
LOCAL ARTIST ZR: Thankfully, I was surrounded by creatives of all sorts including producers and musicians. I dedicated myself to music in the Noughties and used what I knew about live music and put it into digital production. This was the start of my Record Label ‘Catchy Creations’. Initially, I wasn’t interested in writing songs. All I wanted to do was create the music that filled my brain daily. Funny enough, my bredrin and creative mentor, James Eddings (RIP), was annoyingly on my case for about six months to try Rapping. At least four days of the week he’d be like; “Zed, I can hear the tone and vibes in your voice when you talk. Just put something down! Come on man, you got to do it!” In the end, I decided to write and record a track just to shut him up. My first song was called ‘Ghetto Yout’. The realisation that James had been right about my potential as a recording artist now dawned on me and I needed no further convincing. His faith in me inspired me and he continued to help nurture my creative abilities as I transitioned. That’s when my journey as an artist started, as well as organising events, to give myself and others a platform to showcase our creativity. KF: In the transition from the producer and promoter, to an artist, did any conflicts between you and your artists ever emerge? ZR: There was one case of badmind in the early stages. Though I nipped that in the bud quickly. Other than that, nah. We were a family of creatives with complementing energies. I used to always put people’s needs before my own, and aim to do the best with what I had for the best possible outcome. Rightly or wrongly, that mindset helped me grow on so many levels that, in hindsight, prepared me for my future. I feel ready to take on the world.
It's happened once or twice before so now I feel like a super star! lol! Seriously though, my roots are Jamaican and we are known for our global impact through music. This is me, carving out my own legacy in honour and celebration of our rich global musical impact and cultural heritage. through music. KF: So, when are your next singles being released and where can people see you performing this year? ZR: “Kicking up a Storm” and “Woah” will be out the 22nd June, the day before I perform at Glastonbury. You can also see me at the St Pauls Carnival’s fringe events plus other festivals and club gigs. All details can be found on my social medias - Everything is @ZedRegal! Or you can visit my website www. zedregal.com. KF: Final Words? ZR: “Sometimes it takes someone else to believe in you, before YOU believe in you. I've experienced that through James. I now have a manager who saw and believed in my full potential and now supports every aspect of my career. I strongly believe that following your heart`s truest desires with an aim, and a goal with action, is the surest way to achieving beyond what you think possible.”
KF: What’s your focus and purpose with your music? ZR: I feel like my soul's purpose as a creative is a worldwide thing. I’ve always written music with a global mindset and an aim to uplift and entertain people from the first note. Inspiring even one person with the words, sound and positive messages that run through my music, makes me happy. Knowing it resonates and connects, gives my music purpose. 7
BOOK REVIEW
Midnight at Malabar House by Vaseem Khan
Book review by: Shulah Palmer-Jones the library Supervisor for Junction 3 and St Pauls
T
he first in a brilliant new historical crime series: Midnight at Malabar House is a fantastic murder mystery set in post-partition India. A country striving for a new identity while at the same time trying to navigate the remnants of its tumultuous past. Modern, smart and forward thinking Inspector Persis Wadia is India's first female police detective, and Archie Blackfinch, a Scotland Yard forensics expert. When a prominent British diplomat is suddenly found murdered the unlikely pair are tasked with solving the case. In the tradition of all the best crime novels Vaseem Khan weaves well researched haistorical fact with a mysterious and complex plot to leave you guessing right up to the very last page. If you like Agatha Christie you will love The Malabar House.
Dominique Antonina "Emotional well-being and community are intrinsically linked. Part of the suffering I see in our culture and want to speak to is that we are so often alone with our experiences, or we have internalized it with feelings of shame, confusion, fear. As soon as we hear other people in their pain we can recognize ourselves in the other. By sharing and being witnessed, we give permission to the other to be held, and we allow that for ourselves. The whole of us wants to be held and accepted, not exiled and stigmatized. Our culture needs that kind of belonging and connection to other humans more than ever. " (Dominique Antonina) 8
Facilitator, writer and coach Dominique Antonina holds qualifications in Emotional Freedom Techniques, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Reiki , Grief Tending and Transformational Life Coaching. She works for Psycare UK doing psychedelic welfare and harm reduction and has held space for people in their shadow on psychedelics and works with the Inner Child. Her favorite topics to bring soothing and medicine to are self-love, grief and the loss of community in our fragmented modern world. You can discover more about her work at theselflovelab.org
BOOK FEATURE
It Must Have a Name by Joseph Aljilore
Release date: 5th of July A word from the author:
Blurb:
My name is Joseph Ajilore. I'm a writer of conversations and perspectives. My last book was named “The Title Is Not Important.”
In his latest work, Joseph Ajilore is poignant and expansive. IIMHAN is a creative and eclectic outlet of prose and micro-fiction, examining human complexities and expressions, internally and externally.*
We live in a world full of complexities where opinions and decisions that fall into the grey areas are scrutinised with the vengeance of the tongue and the judgement of the public. My new book, If It Must Have A Name is a combination of poetry, prose and micro-fictions divided into nine chapters (Introspective, Complexities, New Media, Religion, Power, When the layers are peeled, Elation, Racism, Stories are told around the circle) all exploring honest dialogues and sometimes, monologues with an intimate look at the vulnerability and tragedies of love, joy, family, religion, culture, race and history. The whys and hows.
The constant search continues. The who, the why and what of humanity. The ponderings and wonderings that are sometimes stuck in a labyrinth, floating in the spaceless vacuum. Throughout the soliloquies, we established the revisited past and pain, the ethos and pathos. The reality and consciousness of the then and now, intertwined with callow youthfulness and naivety throughout the verses and short tales within the pages. As tides bring swells, so do the pages of this book, evoking emotions, acuteness and courses.
I hope you all enjoy it
if it must have a name
if it must have a name Joseph Ajilore
JOSEPH AJILORE
9
WELLBEING
Caafi Health Written By The Caafi Team What we want is for each of us to thrive and achieve our dreams, for our communities to grow and support us and our loved ones in our achievements. What a community needs is for YOU to be in the best shape you can be so that you can show up, engage with life, create connections with others, and share the very best version of yourself possible – oh so cliched yet oh so true!
A focus on you
and your community We all need that bit of time and focused attention, and when we are feeling a bit physically or mentally out-of-sorts and wobbly, that time and attention from other people who can guide us towards ways in which we can help ourselves, is even more important.
Sounds simple – but it can seem difficult to prioritise our holistic health with so many different demands on our time and energy. We want to make it as easy as possible for everyone to access quality health and wellbeing support - to help everyone thrive - so we are bringing our community clinics to You. Your Community Health Clinics Caafi Health has been running community health clinics in St Pauls, Easton, and Barton Hill, since the beginning of May and will continue to do so until the 12th October. We are offering people an opportunity to come and get quality health information and health checks in a relaxed, non-judgemental way - where conversation and tea (or coffee if that’s your jam) flow freely, where no-one is in a rush, and where you can talk about the many different aspects of your life that make you ‘You’.
But don’t just think that you have to wait until you are feeling low, or life is getting tricky – come and see us and discuss how you can make a good lifestyle even better. It’s not about ‘lifehacks’ and shortcuts, it's about living a life that you truly enjoy. What Are They Like? At the sessions we will talk with you about your wellbeing holistically and look at your physical and mental/emotional health to see if there are things that need changing or sessions we can help you access that will improve how you see the quality of your life. There is no judgement here, no prescribed way to live. We will listen to you and chat and find out what might work. And every one of us can keep moving our lives into progressively better places – a multitude of different services in Bristol is set up to do exactly that. Do you like to walk with others? Would a set of Nordic Walking sessions help you to feel less isolated and more fit? Well, we can refer you to Lets Walk Bristol for that! Or maybe Steppin’ Sistas is right for you.
10
WELLBEING What about some wild swimming sessions? Or some outdoor yoga? Would that help give you a feeling of exhilaration and energy from the cold water, or peace and relaxation from the yoga? Well, let’s refer you to Open Mind Active and you can see how you feel after a taster session.
#TeamCaafiHealth Thoughts For Better Wellbeing:
The very individual nature of these conversations mean that we will offer you all sorts of different options. Some people might be ok with travelling to get to an art session while another person only wants to do things near home. Between us we can explore these options and find something that is right for you.
• Prevention is truly better than cure – so come to the health clinics and keep yourself in the best shape possible! Asha
The community clinics are also places to get advice on managing any ongoing conditions you might have. Perhaps you want to talk about your diabetes and are looking for information about eating healthier?
• To be healthy you must care for your body and mind as a whole – getting advice and support that keeps the whole working together is smart and you will never regret it! – Suad
Or get specific information from one of our specialist partners. There are certain days when we have additional service providers attending the sessions – if you want to check these out we have the dates up on our website. You can come and chat to Brigstow Diabetes Peer Support, or the Terence Higgins Trust/ Unity Sexual Health staff or anyone else we have arranged to attend. And not every bit of advice we give is about stopping doing things! We are seriously not out to be the fun police – we like to reflect on what is going well, what is working in people’s lives and help them to do more of those things … as well as supporting the doing less of the damaging (yes, tobacco/vaping/ junk food I’m talking to you!) things. Just Drop In Come along to a clinic and let’s see what we can find out together to improve your health. It’s a collaborative effort and we always appreciate you showing up for yourself. You don’t need to make an appointment – just drop in and chat! We hope to see you really soon. Caafi Health
• Stay Active – Do at least 15mins of walking, skipping, dancing, or playing football: doing it with your kids is optional! - Marta
• Health is a crown on healthy people’s head – and we want to see everyone wearing those crowns. You are all Queens/Kings/Royalty, right! – Dr Nesrien
• Our health does not start in the hospital – it starts at home, in the family, at school, and in our communities. It starts right here, right now because there is always something we can do to care for our bodies and minds even better – Theo • Care for yourself the best way possible, get advice before you think you ‘need’ it, remember that body and mind are One, and not only will you benefit but your children will see this and learn that great physical, mental, emotional, and social/spiritual health is their right – Rae
Basic Health Tips • • • • • • •
Exercise for 15mins daily – more when possible. Eat less fats/carbs/sugars and eat more pulses/fruit/vegetables. Reduce red meat consumption. Get out into any green spaces for minimum 15mins each day. Give yourself time for ‘Being’ instead of always ‘Doing’. If you are worried about any aspect of your life and health, get support. Come to the Caafi Health Community
11
COMMUNITY NEWS
30 years of Lakota
12
written by George Dunn
Last week I was fortunate enough to have been in attendance for two of Lakotas' 30th birthday celebrations. From a personal perspective, it is definitely safe to say that for the majority of these years, a remarkable proportion of my most epically memorable experiences involving Electronic Party-Music have been forged either within its walls or, on occasion, those of the adjacent 'Coroners Court' building and during more recent times, the exceptional and extensive outdoor Party-Space which was created in response to the considerable challenges presented by The End Of Days.
Thirty years ago, thanks to the enterprising vision of the Burgess family, this alluring historical building was woken from its slumber after the slightly macabre and intriguing various half-forgotten histories of its previous lives as an Operating Theatre and a Slaugherhouse and such things, to become the internationally legendary Music Venue that it is today. Many have been the awesome Party-Spaces which have come and gone in Bristol during its lifetime as we know and love it, but few if any could be reckoned to have given so much to so many for so long.
It has been for so many people during these three entire decades an essential space within which the absolutely time-honoured combination of flashing lights, repetitive beats and good vibes which has received such consistent endorsement since before the limits of remembered history, can be celebrated right in the middle of Bristol until it's The Actual Daytime outside.
For as long as we have been fortunate enough to have had Lakota in our lives, our enjoyment of it has been acutened by some manner of entry-level panic owing to the latest vicious rumour that this time everyones' favourite party venue really is about to begin some ghastly new existence as 'Student Accommodation' or 'A Gym' or some other such lamentably utilitarian thing.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Happily however, such speculation has invariably and repeatedly proven to be ultimately bogus, and Lakota lives on; not only in our hearts, and in our minds, but on 6 Upper York Street, St. Paul's, Bristol. Even in the face of Urban Gentrification's relentless tide, the irksome force which continues to undermine this and other culturally significant areas by arbitrarily removing many of the reasons that generated a desire to live there in the first place in favour of up-market housing and 'Gyms', Lakota has stood firm, and its labyrinthine interior continues to provide a theatrically inspiring Space within which successive generations of aspiring young revellers continue to participate in some of the most important experiences that they will ever have involving Electronic Party-Music. Here's to another thirty years...
Denzil and Sonia Burgess at Lakota's anniversary
Did you spot any typos or errors? Fancy proof reading for Vocalise? if so please get in touch... your support would be appreciated. info@vocalisemagazine.org
Update from the Vocalise Team Do you remember the survey from the last edition? Thank you so much for filling it, if you managed to do that. It really means a lot to us as it helps us get to know you, improve the content and design of the magazine and write grant applications. So if you haven't filled it yet, please do! Here is the QR code: The survey is also a great opportunity for you to give us feedback. Based on the responses so far, there is one main thing that you've told us to improve, which is the distribution and access to the magazines. So, as we were disitributing this edition, we have created a distribution points map, which will be published on our webiste (or have already been published depending on when you are reading this).
From now and on, we will try and make sure that all these points are regularly topped up with the magazines, but we will need your help with this! If you go to one of the points and you see that the magazines have run out, please let us know! Just email info@vocalisemagazine.org. Also, we know that some people would prefer to have the magazines delivered to their house. We are thinknig of launching a delivery service for those who would like that. Is it something you'd be interested in? Register your interest by dropping a message to info@ vocalisemagazine.org and we will get back to you. Thanks! The Vocalise Team
13
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Aspiration Creation Elevation Written By Rhian Grant
Inspiring St Pauls’ youth with more than just music... Founded as ACE in 2013, Aspiration Creation Elevation is not merely a collection of abstract nouns, but an organisation dedicated to empowering young people, raising their aspirations, and increasing their community engagement. As Managing Director, Darren Alexander, puts it, “Our main focus is to have an effect, an impact, and change the lives of disadvantaged young people who face barriers around socio-economic and racial factors in St Pauls and the surrounding areas. And if we had no money or all the money in the world, that is what we’d do. That’s what we’re here to do, regardless.”
These sessions enable young people to access ACE’s services in a fun, pressurefree environment, where they can engage with people their own age and get to know ACE’s team of Creative Guidance Mentors. From there, the ACE team identify young people who may benefit from one to one talent development sessions, or from the extra support delivered via their Positive Paths programme. Darren and co-founder Cherelle Grant were inspired to create ACE by a project they atttended as teens. Hi-Road Studios was run by their mentor, Jack Kingslake, in St Werburgh’s. After acquiring years of experience in youth and community work, as well as music production, the cofounders began to form the origins of ACE around 2009 with Kingslake’s support, with the intention to continue the legacy of HiRoad Studios. ACE have had an even greater impact than they initially set out to. With the dedication and drive of Darren and Cherelle, and their team of uniquely qualified and experienced Creative Guidance Mentors, ACE have gone from strength to strength, rolling out new services, renovating Docklands Youth
ACE’s flagship project is More Than Music, with open access youth sessions held at Docklands Youth Centre, for 8-21 year olds, three evenings a week. 14
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Centre where they hold a long-term lease alongside Full Circle, developing exciting new partnerships, and expanding their reach to ever more young people across the city. An advocate for cross organisational collaboration, Darren enthuses,“ACE prides itself on partnerships, they’re fundamental to being able to offer young people the range and breadth of support and services that they need.” And ACE embody this in the way they work and roll out their services across the city. Through funding from Bristol City Council, ACE have been delivering Targeted Youth Services throughout East Bristol in collaboration with Creative Youth Network, the Horn Youth Concern, Bristol Drugs Project, Empire Fighting Chance, Youth Moves, Southmead Development Trust and others since 2018.
the rapids, and hiking the mountains of South Wales. As though all of this were not enough for one organisation, ACE established MAESTROSound, a commercial studio space that is available to the public for studio sessions and equipment hire at community rates. Visit their website at: www.maestrosound.co.uk. ACE are the proud parents of BORN2BE Records, a record label run for and by young people in Bristol producing music of black origin. Co-founder Darren says, “It’s about youth empowerment in the music industry, and giving young people the autonomy and the driving seat to lead their own destinies.” Check them out at: www.born2berecords. com. To top it all ACE have now created the ACE Fund, a funding pot that young people can apply to for financial support on their journey. ACE have received due recognition, winning a Rise Award in 2019 for their outstanding contribution to the community. To find out more about ACE, and keep up with their activities and services, go to: www.aspirationcreationelevation.com.
In partnership with events organisation, Team Love, ACE offer career events for young people. They also work with St Pauls Carnival to commission the beloved Carnival’s youth stage. In 2021, ACE teamed up with Bristol’s Nature Youth Connection and Education (NYCE) and ARC Adventures in the Breacon Beacons to take 14 inner-city young people on an adventure that saw them mountain biking the hills, kayaking the lakes, rolling down 15
COMMUNITY NEWS
Common Ambition Bristol If you haven’t heard already Common Ambition Bristol affectionately known as CAB is a new and exciting community powered project working with the African and Caribbean heritage communities here in Bristol to reduce HIV diagnosis, stigma and ultimately improve sexual health. It is a 3-year project funded by The Health Foundation working with various partners in the city including Brigstowe, Bristol City Council, UNITY sexual health, University of Bristol and African voices forum. Of course, our most important partner in this project is YOU. The people within these communities. Why is this important? Our aim is to increase awareness of HIV and encourage people to test to ultimately be in control of their own sexual health. This is important as Bristol is a city with higher rates of HIV than other cities in the UK, which includes people who may not be aware of their HIV status as they aren’t testing. A misunderstanding of what HIV is, along with fear and stigma, are often reasons why people don’t get tested. CAB exists to change these misunderstanding as well as to address the overall health inequalities that African and Caribbean heritage communities face.
Get to know us: We recently launched our brand new and exciting website! This has been created as a vibrant, informative and safe space for our community to be able to access as much information as needed on HIV and sexual health, including: testing, myth busting, our social media links and where you can see us around the city over the coming months and much more! www.commonambitionbristol.org.uk
We are looking for volunteers! Would you like to be part of this incredible project? Do you have some time to spare to help us with outreach and support us at events across the city? Then do get in touch!! Email us for more information on: cab@brigstowe.org Or contact Aisha Namurach on 0117 9555038
GET INVOLVED! Vocalise is always looking for members of the community to get involved with the magazine. We are always on the look out for: Front cover submissions are also welcome! Writers/Poets And don't forget to send in Artists your local photos! Editors Distributors Advertisers Photographers Fundraisers Get in touch... info@vocalisemagazine.org 16
Autum n issue deadli ne 5th of Septem ber
17
LOCAL NEWS
Wonderful Woodlands Now this is something on offer for everyone – and it's free! A two hour weekly opportunity to be close to nature, to learn to relax and to grow as a person in the tranquility and sanctuary of woodland – what's not to like? And free tea and Hobnob biscuits!
THE HUMAN NATURE PROJECT
Recently, I met Lucy from The Human Nature Project who invites all readers of Vocalise to sign up for a session of forest therapy. She tells me convincingly of the scientific evidence behind the concept of forest bathing. Two hours breathing in phytoncides chemical compounds emitted by trees - massively boost our immune systems. Studies show that our stress hormone cortisol declines significantly when spending time close to trees in woodland. Our natural inclination for fight or flight comes to rest. During a two hour session, you learn and discover more about yourself and your potential, Lucy tells me, focussing on one of the big Cs such as Confidence. Essential tools to improve your mental health come in a take home booklet, tools such as activated breathing - a skill to use and practise wherever you are - and active listening for more productive communication.
Discover strategies for becoming stronger The Human Nature Project promotes good mental health in Bristol with a series of group sessions, open to the general public. Delivered in Leigh Woods and led by qualified and experienced forest therapy practitioners.
written by Judith McMullen The Human Nature Project is being offered to GP surgeries throughout Bristol, to MIND and other mental health associations. It would be fair to say that some health commissioners still need convincing that medicationfree projects such as these in woodland spaces bring substantial long-term benefits to mental health and well-being. But Lucy tells me that The Human Nature Project brings therapeutic and preventative benefits for all, and she urges people of all ages and backgrounds tosign up. Whatever you feel about the pandemic, it has affected us all in some ways. Maybe The Human Nature Project is just what would help you take that next step forward. Judith McMullen Getting there: X4 bus from The Centre https://forestbathingcentral.com/phytoncides_
Sessions take place at Leigh Woods Green Barn. Accessible by the x4 bus plus a 15 minute walk
see full directions when you go to book your session.
FREE 2-HOUR Group SESSIONS BRISTOL WOODLAND LOCATION FREE TEA! RELAXING AND FUN
The Human Nature Project
free forest therapy sessions in Bristol
This project is run by Light Box Project CIC with funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.
UNLOCKING PEOPLE’S NATURAL POTENTIAL TO BE STRONG
www.wearelightbox.co.uk info@wearelightbox.co.uk
18
2022 timetable
LOCAL NEWS
St. Pauls Adventure Playground Ventures (the much-loved St Paul’s Adventure Playground for those new to the area) is offering an exciting and changing programme of activities this summer! At our amazing playground kids can develop new skills and have new experiences, have fun, make new friends and develop confidence and resilience. You can try something new every day - from sports to creative art projects – to building dens, swinging, jumping, playing and, of course, climbing on our fantastic new play structure.
In term time we are open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons, and our sessions for SEND young people on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings.
written by Phil Parry and Sue Santi Our skilled play team has also evolved but there are still several familiar faces here to help the children and young people have a fun and rewarding time, whilst supporting them to gain new skills and enjoy new experiences. Children under 8 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Could you offer us some time as a volunteer? Maybe you’re a great cook, a creative artist, sporty, or just enjoy helping young people develop. We’d love you to come along and join us! Ventures is managed by APE Project CIC. All our playstaff are DBS checked and managed by qualified playworkers. We are a Community Interest Company (CIC), managed by a voluntary board made up of members of the community. We do not receive direct council or government funding to run the playground - 90% of our funding comes from trusts and donations. If you think you could support the playground, either with funding, or with helping out on our board, please get in touch. Contact office@apeproject.co.uk or phone 0117 9542145.
During the school summer holidays, there will be open-access sessions every afternoon from Monday to Friday, with loads of new and exciting activities – keep an eye on our social media pages for details. Food will be available for the children and young people attending the sessions. Much has happened at the Playground over the last couple of years but in spite of Covid and then the fire, the community spirit of the playground is still at its heart. 19
LOCAL NEWS
Fairfield High School Congratulations to Nadia El Jarad from Fairfield High School (FHS) who has been awarded Pearson National Teaching Award’s Certificate of Excellence, for her fantastic work in helping the health, wealth and welfare of EAL (English as an Additional Language) students within the school. According to The Pearson National Teaching Awards, these are the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession and have been rewarding the efforts and celebrations of excellence since 1998. In a hand written letter from author Michael Morpurgo, Nadia’s work is described as ‘lifeenhancing and life-changing’. He states: “I am writing to you to congratulate you and to thank you. For a child to have a great teacher like you is so important. You open doors, shine a light.” Nadia was nominated by her colleague, a Learning Support Assistant, who witnessed her devotion and passion on a daily basis. She was unaware of her achievement, however, until Principal Nick Lewis surprised her with the certificate.
Nadia El Jarad comments: "I am honoured and humbled to accept this teaching award following my continuing efforts in Englishlanguage for the EAL students in secondary education. Teaching languages is my passion, and the real pleasure lies in knowing that my help and support to make a difference to children's lives every single day. “Teachers have faced new challenges over the last two years since the pandemic began, but we still continue to strive to help the next generation of children with their secondary education. I express sincere thanks and gratitude to my bright and hard-working students, my supportive co-workers, and my loving family.” Jo Hall, Nadia’s colleague and EAL Lead comments: “Nadia has infinite kindness and serenity that she shows to every person she meets. She works tirelessly to engage students and their families with Fairfield school life. She nurtures all who know her, often with a delicious food parcel she brings from home, and always has time to listen and to wish you well. She is totally committed to improving the lives for refugees and new arrivals to this country.” FHS would like to say a big congratulations to Nadia for this well deserved accomplishment.
20
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Life2020 Changing the narrative, Leaving a modern day footprint On our ancestor’s blueprint Experimenting with the Formula of freelancing philanthropy Like a game of monopoly,
By Tappis Holmess
Reinventing the wheels Without fear, Services offered, includes; a variety of stalls And a live performing showcase Meditation and aromatherapy, Workshops, information and Advice on well-being care Influencing unity Adding, added values Like a warm blanket, Cuddling and folding Within the fabric of the community Life 2020, symbolises empowerment, A beacon of hope A brightly shining light Spearheading, leading General inspires, Of economical innovational Growth and Social development So support and invest In life’s 2020 As the movement process, Through the pages of time In this contemporary 22nd century LIFE2020 is a large directory for businesses, community organisation and mentorship schemes. It provides business services that include Alternative Education, Life Skills, Cooking, Nutrition, Beauty, Massage, Mindfulness, Well-being, Business Support & Events. For more information visit: life2020.co.uk.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Thoughts from an Oldie My world is shrinking, but that's OK. I have my growing family, my friends, gardening and the various other things I do, I have retired from the Repair Cafes in Fishponds and St Paul's. My car has gone to the scrap yard and at 75 years of age I am not about to lug my sewing machine and all the bits and pieces to wherever! When I bought my old Scenic some 13 or 14 years ago I suspected it would be my last car. Then I decided a couple of years ago it would be. Aging eyes, spiralling costs and the environment, it just seemed a sensible thing to do. So I walk more now which is good. It's a pity transport in Bristol isn't better, but hey, I am learning the ways of the system. I have my wheely shopping trolley given me by my granddaughter, Kiki which can hold bags of compost and pretty much anything I buy. I am looking forward to Lidl's opening in town this summer as that is one trip I do miss for those favourite foody things.
I have also let my passport run out.... it is my intention not to travel overseas anymore, not add to air pollution. I have been fortunate during my life to have spent so much of it abroad and now feel it more realistic to explore the UK. So far a five day coach trip to SW Wales has proved there is plenty to enjoy here. Fabulous views, interesting places and time for a little sketching. I am considering house sitting breaks too, slightly more problematic without a car I suspect. It is ridiculous that getting to Newcastle from Bristol is cheaper by plane than train and not that much faster when considering all the hanging around waiting to board. Well, it's time to stretch my legs, go buy some milk for my next cuppa and probably watch Garden Rescue on my laptop.
For the love of Gardening I started gardening in Germany when I was five years old. My father worked at the British Embassy then in Bonn. We lived on a brand new housing estate being built for British and Canadian diplomats during the occupation which ended in 1955. The garden seemed huge to me at the time. The houses were being built on land much of which was an old orchard. We had a large apple tree in the middle of our lawn which my brother and I climbed in and fell out of several times! There were plum trees, more apples, a peach tree I think and lots of gooseberry bushes. Herr Schneider, a small, ex German soldier looked after these plots and I spent a lot of time with him. He was a lovely man who showed me how to scratch my name into a small marrow and watch it grow. He also gave me my own little plot behind the cold frame he built.
22
Written by Hilary Finch
Written by Hilary Finch
I planted sunflower seeds and presumably other plants that I don't remember. Through him and the garden I got to understand a little about nature, how earwigs love plums, how wild rabbits look after their young and watched foxes gambling about. We picked gooseberries, collected apples and learned about the seasons. Herr Schneider grew lots of vegetables for us and himself. From that time, despite years without a garden, when I have one I am busy in it. I have had vegetable plots and one garden even with a proper green house. Now, living on my own growing veg in my north facing garden is more work than I want to do. I really only need one potato, carrot or courgette at a time so I'd rather shop locally for them and grow flowers. Perennials, wild flowers and shrubs is my way with two old fruit trees, a pear and an apple and a newly planted hazel for the local squirrels who come and eat the peanuts I throw out for the birds. The colours, smells, watching nature and the plants grow and develop, clipping and weeding, fussing and nurturing are a part of my Spring through Autumn habitat now.
LOCAL NEWS
Playing Out Ventures (the much-loved St Paul’s Adventure Playground for those new to the area) is offering an exciting and changing programme of activities this summer! At our amazing playground kids can develop new skills and have new experiences, have fun, make new friends and develop confidence and resilience. You can try something new every day - from sports to creative art projects – to building dens, swinging, jumping, playing and, of course, climbing on our fantastic new play structure. In term time we are open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons, and our sessions for SEND young people on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings. During the school summer holidays, there will be open-access sessions every afternoon from Monday to Friday, with loads of new and exciting activities – keep an eye on our social media pages for details. Food will be available for the children and young people attending the sessions. Much has happened at the Playground over the last couple of years but in spite of Covid and then the fire the community spirit of the playground is still at its heart. Our skilled play team has also evolved but there are still several familiar faces here to help the children and young people have a fun and rewarding time, whilst supporting them to gain new skills and enjoy new experiences.
Children under 8 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Could you offer us some time as a volunteer? Maybe you’re a great cook, a creative artist, sporty, or just enjoy helping young people develop. We’d love you to come along and join us! Ventures is managed by APE Project CIC. All our playstaff are DBS checked and managed by qualified playworkers. We are a Community Interest Company (CIC), managed by a voluntary board made up of members of the community. We do not receive direct council or government funding to run the playground - 90% of our funding comes from trusts and donations. If you think you could support the playground, either with funding, or with helping out on our board, please get in touch. Contact office@apeproject.co.uk or phone 0117 9542145.
23
POETRY
Who belongs? Poem by Deasy Bamford An Invisible rain of sorrow swept across the world, bringing no sweet desert blooms but hardy skins, bark on the soul barricading the heart from rejection and judgement. Looking in and out at an unlovable reflection. Where does the rain rise from, who deals out the pain of good and bad? What began as a definition of we , became an isolation of other. Youth withers under the weight of not belonging Mothers cannot love their children enough to protect them from cruelty The force that made us, made no one better than another Fortune or forgery, malignant mysogyny,division by race and colour Denies a drink at the well. Bullies with brash self importance
24
construct a castle of control and children weep alone to be someone else . Wash away centuries of sickening psychology with a different rain A storm flood of love to dissolve unkindness, a tsunami of acceptance Lakes pools and puddles of interest in each other, oceans of possibility Tornados and whirlwinds of change, who will we be when we can all be we? Creation,imagination,collaboration, no more supremacists nations waging ideological wars,unfettered wealthmongers claiming the world stealing children's minds with algorithms of addiction and distraction smothering us like vines stealing the sunshine, till we are stifled for profit . As our species continues out of control,nature will intervene eventually. Reclaiming the planet with new blossoms in survival Maybe none of us belong here until each human is a reflection of ourselves, and we rejoice in our global community with an abundance of love.
LESS QUEUING, MORE RECYCLING. From 6 June 22 you’ll need to book to visit Bristol’s Recycling Centres. Booking opens 23 May. You can book as far ahead as two weeks, or up to one hour before your visit.
k, c i u Q le p m i s e u e u q and ee! fr
Recycling Centre
Book
Scan to book bristol.gov.uk/bookrecycling 0117 922 2100
25
VOCALISE NEWS
Vocalise Success Story On the 29th of March, we had a visit from University of East Anglia. International development students came to visit Bristol. The professors, Teresa and Kavita who were organising the tour, came to visit Bristol last year to get to know the city and find things that the students could do during their week here in spring. Teresa and Kavita spent a day around St. Pauls and Montpelier visiting pearls around the city like the Portland Square or our famous Turbo Island. They were especially interested in community organisations and projects as well as social activism. This led the teachers to St Pauls Learning Centre, where they found a copy of Vocalise! The professors immediately appreciated the great work we do and important role we have as a networking and information hub for our community and wanted their students to get involved with us. So, we organised a lovely, personalised day tour for students around St. Paul’s and our community. There were 26 students in total and three teachers. For the first part of the day, we split students into two groups. And then we took each group for a walk around our area. We covered a big chunk of St Pauls, things like the 2 of 7 saints of St Pauls, community centres, the Alfred Fagon statue. The guide was one of our directors, Kabbo Hue Ferdinand. The students got to learn about the history of Hamilton House, as well as saw some beautiful street art like Banksy, Captain Jamaica among others. After the walks, we took a break and met back
26
Written by Julia Widz
in Docklands Community Centre where we continued the day full of experiences. We started with a drumming session by Rubba. Rubba is a great artist from our area – you probably know him already! He does afrikan drumming workshops in DMAC, you can also find him performing sometimes in venues like Star and Garter. We then had a storytelling and creative writing workshop by Kabbo, followed by a chat about Vocalise with our founder Vandna. We talked about how the magazine started, how it is to run an organization like this. The day was not only full of fun and energy but also educational! The students enjoyed it very much and felt that they learned a lot. If you’d ever like to take part in a tour like this, or any of the above activities let us know. We loved being able to organise this event and would love to repeat that. We can organise a day, a morning, an afternoon activity for you, your family, school, or workplace! You can mix and match activities you’d like, and we will always find something that suits best depending on your budget, needs and interests! Just get in touch and share our offer among your networks.
LOCAL EVENTS
What’s on... Bristol Shakespeare Festival
Running an event? Let us know and we'll help promote it! 14 July to 30 Aug
The Bristol Shakespeare Festival is an annual festival held during June, July and August. Hosting performances and events inspired by the Bard ,in indoor and outdoor spaces across Bristol, from companies across the UK. Whether you prefer the traditional or the experimental, there's something for everyone.
Think Global: Act Bristol at M Shed
20 July to 30 Oct
Exhibition at M Shed exploring big environmental questions affecting people here and worldwide, and presents perspectives from a wide range of local voices.
Magic Malka Parlour Show at Cloak and Dagger
19 July & 26 July
Magic Malka, their resident magician is back with an intimate parlour show. Magic Malka is one of the citiy's famous magicians, he specialises in close up magic which will blow your mind!
Screening & Q&A: De Anima at Spike Island
26 July
Join Spike Island on 26 July for a special artist presentation of De Anima (2018-21) by Clara Jo. Spanning documentary, narrative and animation, De Anima examines how various gendered, racialised, economic and metabolic systems embedded within the global health system, drive fear of contamination from the nonhuman world.
Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwals at St George's Bristol
27 July
Asian Arts Agency presents the internationally acclaimed Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwals who are to make a highly anticipated return to the UK, bringing an unforgettable musical experience of enchanting, majestic and intoxicating Sufi music.
Parker's Adventure with Bristol Animal Rescue Centre
27 July to 31 Aug
To celebrate 135 years of helping, healing and homing the city's vulnerable animals, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has created an interactive adventure trail.
Sustainable Pop-Up Market at Future Leap
30 July, 27 Aug & 24 Sept
The Future Leap monthly sustainable markets are a celebration of local talent which provides an eco-conscious space for finding gifts and green alternatives to the high street.
Leena Norms at Trinity Centre
31 July
Raise the Bar presents a Bristol reading from the brilliant debut collection of YouTuber, writer & poet, Leena Norms. Plus a local support lineup TBA.
Bristol Light Festival presents: Luminarium
4 Aug to 14 Aug
Bristol Light Festival is bringing the sensational sensory experience Luminarium to Bristol for 11 days this summer as a free-to-visit immersive experience on College Green.
Wiper Walkies at Wiper and True, St Werburghs
7 Aug, 4 Sept & 2 Oct
A friendly dog walking group on the first Sunday of every month. Meet at Wiper and True's St Werburghs Taproom at 1pm for a one hour walk around the Mound, circling back to the taproom for a free pint at 2pm. You can also just join the walk, or meet them at the taproom for a drink.
Open Mic at Cloak and Dagger
18 Aug
Cloak and Dagger is an independent grassroots venue which provides opportunities for new up and coming artists to showcase their work. This is the night to get seen and get booked for future gigs! Set in the "Carousel" downstairs, watch a mixture of live music, spoken word and comedy. Hosted by Underground Sounds.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
11 Aug to 14 Aug
Europe's biggest hot air balloon event
The Great Ant Exhibition at Fairfield School
27 Aug
Ants on a Rock is hosting The Great Ant Exhibtion! With many vendors such as Antsrus and The Ant Lady. Enjoy raffles, guest speakers, free gifts, discounts and lots more.
27
KIDS ACTIVITIES
PUZZLES
How many
28
can you find in this edition?
SUDOKU
SUDOKU Difficulty level: EASY
Difficulty level: MEDIUM
Difficulty level: HARD
29
COMMUNITY NEWS
Your Councillors say... Firstly we have to mention the referendum. People in Bristol have voted to have a committee system rather than a Mayor. Whatever your views, that has been decided. What we need to do now is to work out exactly what that means and how we involve citizens in democratic decisions. Crucially it means working across parties. Jude, Amirah and Tim continue to work well together locally and will certainly take this into the wider council work. Second thing to mention is the cost of living crisis. Most importantly we would like to make sure everyone has applied for their council tax rebate. If you pay by direct debit you should have already got it. If not apply here: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/council-tax/ council-tax-rebate Remember you can still claim even if you get 100% council tax rebate.
Onto local matters, a few things we should mention. Firstly we have been working on the ‘Slow the Smoke’ project in Ashley where local residents have been monitoring air quality. Its been getting some national press coverage and initial results clearly show a spike in particle pollution above EU levels on cold, still days when people burn fuel. The cost of energy is sky rocketing and some people have no other choice but it does raise that people who can should think about solid fuel. Couple of other things we have been doing include working with officers and local businesses to co-ordinate some action on graffiti on the Ashley Hill and Stokes Croft Junction and we hope that will improve soon. We have also been working with local residents and Bristol waste to set up pilots where resident will manually weed streets meaning they don’t need to be sprayed. If it works, hopefully we can roll it out. And finally, it is the time of year again when Community Infrastructure Levy money is available. This is money that developers pay to the council that is for community use. Not much was built in Covid so there is much less in the pot but bids include various traffic calming, developing Dalrymple park, making Narroways more accessible. Please get in touch with us if you have more views. A quick mention to Jon Newey from Docklands Centre who has helped in publicising the CIL process. He is leaving for pastures new and we thank him for all the work he has done in the area Your councillors Tim, Jude and Amirah.
30
COMMUNITY NEWS
Police Update Here we are again, wow this year is just whizzing by! Summer is now upon us and we are getting ready to deal with the demand on policing that follows the lighter nights and warmer weather. We are looking forward to seeing many of you out and about in our vibrant buzzing community. We have been busy on the Ashley Ward Neighbourhood Policing Team with lots of fantastic engagement. We have recently helped fund a free six week drumming course for primary aged children in collaboration with Dance Music Arts Collective (DMAC UK), this has been great positive work with our local young people and we hope there may be an end performance in the coming weeks. You may also see a few of us also drumming away, officers truly on the beat! We hope to run a further course in the near future, so watch this space! We have also been continuing our sports sessions at Dolphin and St Werburghs Primary schools where the team play football with the children and help build trust and confidence and also have many other school and nursery visits planned. There are lots of ‘talk to us’ events planned at St Andrews Park and St Agnes Park, please go onto the force website www.avonandsomerset.police. uk for details of these events and we will look forward to seeing you there. The team are hoping to liaise further with Bristol Drugs Project and Bristol City Council in relation to the ongoing drug dealing and taking in areas such as St Agnes Park, Bath Buildings and Winkworth place. We hope to try and engage with drug users and signpost them to get the support that they need and also target areas to relieve problems that local residents are facing.
Written by PC Serena Serjeant In the coming weeks we will also be carrying out E-scooter operations and traffic events to give educational advice about issues such as seat belts, children’s car seats, speeding and safety.You may have seen many of our PCs and PCSOs out on E-bikes, this is a great way of getting around the beat quickly. Please do stop the team for a chat, if you need to report an incident or if you would just like to say hello. We also have more news! Four of our PCSOs on the Ashley Neighbourhood Policing Team have successfully got through the application process to become police officers. This is fantastic news for them and I am really proud of these officers, but we will really miss them. Please don’t be concerned though, we already have new officers in place who are out on the beat learning about the area and who are enjoying getting to know the community. I am also in the process of setting up a Bristol East Women’s Network, this is going to be a meeting for women of Bristol East to come together and discuss topical issues affecting women and girls within our community in a relaxed environment. It will also help community members get to know the female Police officers at Trinity Road Inspector Catherine Leigh and Maz Collacott-Nurr Sergeant for Easton will also be there, so if this is something you would be interested in being part of, please get in touch. Take care, Serena PS Serjeant Ashley Neighbourhood Team
31
Are you ready for Bristol’s Clean Air Zone?
Com ing soon
Check online to see if your vehicle will be charged and to find out how we can help you prepare for the zone. bristol.gov.uk/cleanairzone
32