RISE for 2020 the London Borough of Culture Launches with Spectacular RISE Event

Winter 2019/2020 www.brent.gov.uk/yourbrent

The magazine about life in Brent, published by Brent Council

THIS IS THIS IS THE THE BOROUGH BOROUGH OF CULTURES OF CULTURES

All RISE for 2020 The London Borough of Culture launches with spectacular RISE event

BRENT 2020 PROGRAMME MOBOS COMING HOME CULTURE FUND ROUND 2 FREE insert of events and The world famous awards More cash awarded to activities through the year show returns to Wembley promote creative projects ATTENTION ALL LANDLORDS

Extension of additional HMO licensing Licensing laws for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have been extended in Brent for a further five years.

Landlords remember… Your property is an HMO and needs a licence if you rent to three or more people who are not all related, even if they are on a single tenancy

DON’T GET PROSECUTED!

Get your application in now to avoid unlimited fines and a criminal record. Visit: www.brent.gov.uk/prslicensing YOUR 16 IN THIS ISSUE... BRENT NEWS 4 A round-up of the latest news in Brent

SKY HIGH AMBITION 16 22 Kathan Dudhela, the UK’s youngest flight instructor CELEBRATING THE PRIDE OF BRENT 18 Meet the winners of the 2019 Pride of Brent Awards

MAN ON A MISSION 20 Stephen Graham helps young people in Brent COMMUNITY CASH SKY HIGH AMBITION COMMUNITY CASH SPLASH 22 28 Local community regeneration projects 26 ROUND 2 CULTURE FUND ANNOUNCED 24 The second Borough of Culture fund recipients

WORLD ON FIRE 26 What does a climate emergency mean for you?

HEAVYWEIGHT PROBLEM TACKLED 28 Discover four ways to improve your physical health HEALTH AND FITNESS GROWING GREEN 31 WORLD ON FIRE Find out about Brent Council’s commitment to trees 31 ERITREAN FOOD KENSAL STYLE 34 www.facebook.com/BrentCouncil Eden Bokrezion talks about her supper club

twitter.com/Brent_Council BUDGET BALANCING ACT Brent Customer Services 37 020 8937 1234 Have your say on Brent Council’s budget consultation www.brent.gov.uk YOUR BRENT is available HOLIDAY COLLECTIONS + USEFUL CONTACTS 38 in large print. Please Holiday bin collection dates and useful local contacts call 020 8937 1234

Issue No. 162 Winter 2019/2020 GROWING GREEN Distribution queries and editorial: ARTS AND CULTURE 40 [email protected] Theatre, music, events and more... EDITOR Sarah Whyte [email protected] PRODUCTION EDITOR Middleton Mann WHAT’S ON [email protected] 44 ADVERTISING SALES Classes, fitness and opportunities near you [email protected] Published by Brent Council 20 CLOSE KNIT COMMUNITY Brent Council does not accept responsibility for any goods or services 46 offered by advertisers. Publication of an advertisement does not imply Meet the Kilburn Library Knitting and Crochet Club recommendation by the council of goods or services advertised. Printed on 100 per cent FSC paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this magazine and other paper. 72326BDU09/15

ON A MISSION YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 3 Brent 2020 – celebrating the Borough of Cultures Christmas and New Year is often a time for Brent: London’s reflection as we wind down from a busy year and enjoy some of the seasonal festivities. I hope you will be able to enjoy some well-earned time off with family and friends before the New Year Borough of starts and all the opportunities it brings. Looking back on 2019, it was a pleasure to witness the switch-on of the capital’s largest ever LED Christmas tree in Wembley Park as Culture 2020 part of their Winterfest celebrations. See some of the pictures from the night on page 12. 2019 also saw Brent join more than 100 other councils in declaring a climate emergency. You can find out more about what this means, how we are striving for carbon neutrality by 2030, and how you can help the planet on page 26. One way to help the environment and take care of your health is to reduce the time you spend in the car. In this issue, we look at some of the best ways to keep fit during these cold winter months and share some tips on The RISE event will launch the year’s programme incorporating this into your life (see page 28). 2020 is the year Brent becomes the London Borough of Culture. On page 24, we introduce you to some more of the creative projects we are supporting through our School photos form Culture Fund. If you have a creative idea and want to host your own event, get your application in to us by February 2020. massive art project This edition of YourBrent also includes a Seven year olds from 53 Brent exhibition on over 600 billboards special 16-page insert which highlights some of Primary Schools are featuring in across London. the amazing events and activities we have Turner Prize-winning artist and 53 Brent primary schools were planned. The year starts with our spectacular Oscar-winning filmmaker Steve photographed and three of launch event RISE on 18 January in Wembley McQueen’s #Year3Project these schools were featured in Park, which will be a stunning display of music currently on display at the the outdoor billboard and dance telling the story of Brent. Tate Britain. exhibition between the 4 Brent 2020 will help put our fantastic borough The ambitious project, and 18 November. on the map, and tell everyone what kind of created by Steve The exhibition at borough we are. From Kenton to Kilburn, McQueen in partnership the Tate Britain, with Tate Britain, which features Wembley to Willesden there will Artangel and A New thousands of Year be something for everyone Direction, was Three classes, is free to get involved in. launched in November to visit and is open Remember, as London’s as a major outdoor until May. most diverse borough, we are not just the London Borough of Culture – we are the London Borough of CULTURES! Now that really is something to celebrate!!

Cllr Muhammed Butt Leader of Brent Council NEWS

WILLESDEN HUB NOW OPEN Brent Hubs Willesden is now open and ready to support local residents. The Willesden venue is the latest hub combining services from Brent Council with those from other local organisations. The Willesden Hub is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at The Library at Willesden Green.

APOLOGY In the last issue of Your Brent, we incorrectly stated in a headline that the “Soul of Shaolin” was at the Kiln Theatre, Kilburn. The premier of the action packed experience was actually at the new Troubadour Theatre in Wembley Park. We apologise for this error.

GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS In December, residents Artists and young people from across the Hindu Temple in Europe, the Kiln Theatre, the across Brent voted in borough joined Brent Council representatives new Troubadour Theatre and Mahogany Carnival the General Election for the three Parliamentary and community groups at the Kiln Theatre in Design. We are Jayaben Desai, George Michael, constituencies of Brent Kilburn to unveil the programme for Brent Cyrille Regis, Keith Moon, Rachel Yankey, Janet Central, Brent North and 2020: ‘This is the Borough of Cultures’. Kay, Twiggy, Bob Marley, Michael Meaney and Hampstead and Kilburn. If you haven’t already Brent 2020 will explore the spirit and creativity Trojan Records. Diversity is our strength and our checked, you can find out of Brent, with hundreds of local residents taking greatest asset.” the result of the election a leading role in shaping the programme. Taking where you live by visiting Lois Stonock, Artistic Director of Brent 2020, www.brent.gov.uk/ place against a backdrop of the UEFA European said: “Our year as London Borough of Culture elections2019. Football Championship at Wembley Stadium, will show London what Brent is all about. Brent 2020 will present high profile cultural Everything you will see, hear, feel and watch will JUSTICE FOR JOSH events throughout the year and across the have its origins in Brent and will be developed by In the spring issue of Your Brent we spoke to whole borough. and with Brent’s young community, the people Tracey and Brooke Hanson The year officially starts on Saturday, 18 January who make this not just the London Borough of who were still fighting 2020 – with the ‘RISE’ opening celebration on Culture but the London Borough of Cultures.” for justice for the murder of their son and brother Olympic Way, Wembley. A cast of hundreds will The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m Josh. We can confirm take part in a giant dance performance, with delighted that Brent has set out such a bold plan that Shane O’Brien, who had spent three years large-scale projections lighting up the walkway for its year as London Borough of Culture, from on the run and was on from Wembley Stadium to kick-start Brent’s year huge street celebrations to support for aspiring Interpol’s most-wanted as London Borough of Culture. artists. Culture list, was sentenced to life imprisonment after being Other highlights of the year are set to include has the power found guilty of murder in internationally acclaimed Brent writer, Zadie to bring October. Smith, premiering new work at the Kiln Theatre, communities the MOBO Awards’ coming home to the SSE together and BRENT WINTER Arena and Kilburn High Road transformed for a transform lives, FESTIVAL Come along to the Brent mile-long summer street party. so I’m Winter Festival from 11am Carolyn Downs, Brent Council’s Chief particularly to 5pm in the Grand Hall Executive, introduced the programme by pleased that of the Brent Civic Centre on 25 January. The festival highlighting some of the people and themes, in young people will feature music, dance London’s most diverse borough, that will take will be at the Council Chief Executive and art from the borough’s centre stage in 2020. “Brent is the home of Zadie heart of Eastern European Carloyn Downs and Latin American Smith, reggae and English football,” she said. everything that introduces Brent 2020 Communities. “Brent has London’s oldest road, the biggest happens.”

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 5 NEWS Citizens Assembly to fuel Brent’s response to the climate emergency

50 residents from all backgrounds have formed a new Climate Assembly to make sure local voices are heard as Brent responds to the climate emergency. Assembly members, from 16 year olds upwards, are taking part in workshops to crowdsource ideas for cutting carbon emissions locally. Recommendations from the Climate Assembly will be considered before a new plan to help tackle the climate emergency is revealed in early 2020. Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment at Brent Council, said: “In declaring a climate emergency, we acknowledged that there is Wembley’s LED arch goes green in support much more we can and must do, both as a council and as a easy but we’re excited that us to shape Brent’s response.” Summit in October. community. The journey to local people, and especially Brent Youth Parliament Find out more about the carbon neutrality won’t be our young people, are helping also held their own Climate Climate Emergency on p26.

Black blood donors The Mayor of Brent, Cllr Ezeajughi, donated blood to support The Sickle Cell Society’s campaign to encourage needed urgently more black people to become blood donors. Sickle cell is the most common and fastest growing genetic disorder in the UK and mainly affects people from African and Caribbean backgrounds. Sickle cell can cause extreme pain as well as life- threatening infections and complications. People from black African, black Caribbean and black mixed heritage backgrounds are more likely to have the rare Ro blood subtype that is vital for sickle cell patients. The NHS needs 40,000 more black blood donors for the thousands of people with sickle cell who need regular transfusions. The Mayor of Brent said: “I am asking all residents in Brent, which is the most diverse in London, and especially The Mayor with Professor those with African or Caribbean heritage to do something Dame Elizabeth Anionwu, amazing by registering to give blood.” Patron of The Sickle Cell Society. To find out more visit: www.sicklecellsociety.org

6 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 NEWS

School children Poverty tackled enjoy special War by new council- Horse performance The acclaimed National led commission Theatre Production War Horse A new commission to tackle poverty came to Brent for a six week in Brent has been unveiled by run at the Troubadour Brent Council. Wembley Park Theatre. Made up of experts on the subject, The new theatre hosted councillors and anti-poverty advisors, over 2,500 young people at the commission will address issues such two specially dedicated as child and food poverty and identify performances for school pupils evidence-based solutions. from Brent. These performances Cllr Eleanor Southwood (below), were introduced by author Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Michael Morpurgo. Reform, said: “Many Brent residents are really struggling. The combined impact of welfare changes, insecure employment and rocketing housing costs is creating real hardship. We need to do more, working with our partners so that everyone has a good quality of life in Brent.”

Promoting a Save a life with new approach free online suicide to adoption prevention training A new regional adoption Would you know what to do if you or agency for the whole of west someone you know is feeling suicidal? London is asking residents if Around 12 people take their own life they will consider opening every week in London and knowing how their homes to children who to spot the signs could make a huge need a family. difference to someone in need. Brent is joining forces with Brent Council is supporting the Zero Ealing, Hounslow and Suicide Alliance’s online suicide prevention Hammersmith & Fulham councils, course. The free training is designed to to create Adopt London West to help people identify warning signs and pull together the resources and feel comfortable having conversations experiences of all four boroughs Children in West London about suicide. in one place. need a loving home “Every suicide is a tragedy and can be “This new regional way of prevented if people are given the right working will enable us to work more closely with our neighbouring help,” says Brent Council’s Cabinet boroughs to help find suitable homes for children and young people who Member for Public Health Cllr Krupesh need them,” says Cllr Mili Patel, Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Hirani. “This free training is key to Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care. helping people recognise when someone “Having a stable family environment is very important for children’s may be feeling this way, and it equips development and adoption is just one of the ways for children to be people with the tools to know what to welcomed into a loving and caring home.” do to support them.” To find out more about adoption go towww.adoptlondon.org.uk Visit www.zerosuicidealliance.com.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 7 NEWS

THE DRUM W EMBLE Y Get married in style £700k to help AT THE DRUM WEMBLEY youths to reject gangs Whether you are looking to host a small, intimate wedding or a Young people at risk of getting caught up in crime will soon have better access to local grand celebration, The Drum support and advice, writes Tara Benham. Brent Council is investing £700k to pay for more outreach workers trained to spot the Wembley offers an array of signs of young people struggling with mental health issues who may be vulnerable amazing possibilities to gang exploitation. Criminal networks often prey on young women too, so extra More cash for St Giles to cash will go to 1-2-1 support for young help young offenders women who need help. • Situated in the heart of The move follows research, which shows more effort needs to go into spotting young vibrant Wembley Park people who are struggling and help them to make better choices to prevent them from Dodgy tobacco burns turning to crime. While police play an • Modern and versatile spaces with important part, enforcement is not the only a hole in the pocket FINED solution to tackle street violence – an idea that capacity for up to 850 guests was popular with residents who came to the Two traders have been ordered to pay £6,000 between recent Time To Talk event at Roundwood them by Willesden Magistrates after trading standards Youth Centre. officers swooped in a raid on illegal tobacco products. • Stunningly beautiful and There is also evidence to show that helping Mr Karson Mepani, owner of Mepani News in unique, circular Grand Hall young offenders can cut reoffending. One Kingsbury, and Mr Iulian Frasinescu, of Carpathina programme in Brent cut reoffending by 52%, so Limited on the Harrow Road, both pleaded guilty a slice of the £700k will go towards extending to similar charges. this service, which is run by run by St Giles. The law requires tobacco products to carry health • Excellent transport links Cllr Tom Miller, Cabinet Member for warnings and use standard packaging. Community Safety, said: “Serious youth Cllr Tom Miller, Cabinet Member for Community violence is falling in Brent, but we can’t Safety, said: “The sale of illicit tobacco not only afford to be complacent. This new undercuts legitimate traders but it also undermines programme will build on the good work that efforts to reduce the uptake of smoking and to is already getting results across the borough. help smokers quit. Businesses should never put By putting outreach and prevention first, we profits before safety.” can show young people alternatives to Report a rogue landlord anonymously at criminality and gangs.” www.brent.gov.uk. @drumwembley

8 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 thedrumwembley.com THE DRUM W EMBLE Y Get married in style AT THE DRUM WEMBLEY

Whether you are looking to host a small, intimate wedding or a grand celebration, The Drum Wembley offers an array of amazing possibilities

• Situated in the heart of vibrant Wembley Park

• Modern and versatile spaces with FINED capacity for up to 850 guests

• Stunningly beautiful and unique, circular Grand Hall

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thedrumwembley.com YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 9 NEWS Eight new family hubs to provide broader support Families in Brent will soon be able to access a wider range of support services in centres around the borough. Eight new family hubs will be developed from existing children’s centre venues and expand on the existing services offered. A broad range of public health services, including community midwifery, will be delivered from the hubs while youth mentoring and peer support will also be added. There are also plans for evening and weekend activities with the centres also open for longer during the week. Cllr Mili Patel (left), Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care, said: “The family hubs model up to 18 years, and 25 years in the case of those with disabilities. transforms the way Brent provides support “This will ensure comprehensive support for families and to local families. young people at all stages on the journey to adulthood, and will “This will see us move on from a be a big change to the way these services are delivered in Brent.” children’s centre model – which The children’s centre sites that are not planned for provides excellent support, but only development will continue to be used in alternative ways for Cllr Mili Patel between 0-5 years – to family the benefit of children and their families in the borough. centres which will provide support Shop and save in Brent

A dynamic new business events programme for 2020 including:

Major construction companies in Brent will meet with potential suppliers from the local business community Hairitage in Willesden Green is one of the shops in the scheme

Large-scale B2B event with seminars, networking and You can now get even more for your money when you a range of exhibiting companies. shop locally. Brent Council has teamed up with dozens of great businesses A new programme celebrating in Brent to offer discounts and rewards to shoppers who use the Brent’s thriving and dynamic Shop Local scheme. business community All you need to do is scroll through the list of participating businesses, download the relevant voucher and show it when you make a purchase. Register your interest [email protected] With restaurants, hotels, bars and spas there is sure to be or call 0208 726 7968 for more information something for everyone. Find out more online, www.brent.gov.uk/shoplocal

10 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 NEWS

Do you Movember? Men growing out their moustaches and beards to raise money for a men’s health campaign enjoyed a free ‘shave off’ in November. Residents were invited to new Wembley Park hairdressers Chop Chop to get their facial hair removed for free and start the month with a blank canvas. Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health Councillor Krupesh Hirani (above) is one of many who got involved to raise money for Banging ‘Movember’. The Drum in Wembley Park Wembley Park’s leading conference quickly becoming a thriving London and events venue, The Drum, has destination thanks to 1,000s of new relaunched with a new customer- homes and new facilities such as focused approach which reflects the Boxpark, The London Designer Outlet Iconic Ace Cafe venue’s modern and flexible facilities, and new Troubadour Theatre. writes Sophie Leer. Cllr McLennan, Deputy Leader of the scoops top Based just yards from the iconic council, said: Wembley Stadium and SSE Arena, The “The Drum Wembley is a fantastic transport award Drum is located in one of the most asset to the borough and this rebrand environmentally-friendly public sector will really help to put the venue on Stonebridge’s iconic Ace Café has buildings in the country. the map and showcase our modern scooped a prestigious ‘red wheel’ For more than six years, The Drum and professional approach to award to recognise the café’s team has successfully helped potential customers. contribution to the history of thousands of clients and businesses “I’m so proud of everything that transport. deliver inspirational events from the team have and continue to achieve The Transport Trust awards red wheels conferences and meetings to for their customers and I’d like to to sites that have special value, bringing weddings and major product encourage anyone who hasn’t already the places to the attention of a wider launches. During this time, the to come and visit!” audience. The Ace Cafe is one of just surrounding Wembley Park area has For more information, go to: 116 sites to receive one of these plaques seen significant transformation and is www.thedrumwembley.com across the whole UK.

YOUR BRENTYOUR BRENT | WINTER | SUMMER 2019/2020 2019 11 NEWS Advertorial

London’s tallest LED Christmas tree unveiled in Wembley Park

The countdown to Christmas has officially started following the unveiling of the capital’s largest ever LED Christmas tree as part of Wembley Wembley Park’s Park’s Winterfest. Winterfest installations Visitors can walk through the 25-meter high LED tree and view it from the inside as well as admiring it from a distance. Crowds gathered in late November for the switch on which is part of the free winter light festival and includes a sonic runway along Olympic Way and a heart sculpture adorned with mistletoe. Cllr Muhammed Butt, Brent Council Leader, said: “The free winter playground in Wembley Park provides festive cheer to families from across Brent as we look Candlewood House Care Home: ahead to our London Borough of Culture activities throughout 2020.” designed with your needs in mind

Candlewood House is the latest care home to be opened Many of which will be open to friends, family and the local Diamond Jubilee’s by award-winning TLC Care. community. Whilst focusing on well-being, Candlewood Brent’s amazing small Sybil Wright, the home manager, extends a warm House will offer a ‘spectrum of care services’ designed to are forever for welcome to everyone interested in coming and visiting meet a low to high level of care needs. businesses awarded Dame Shirley the care home. Sybil says: “we are able to welcome visitors Sybil says: “we are still recruiting, although, we are during the day, at weekends as well as in the evenings. delighted to have found many wonderful individuals who The third Small Business Saturday The Kiln Theatre If you make an appointment we will make sure to have share our culture of Truth, Love and Compassion”. Our Awards took place this autumn and won two awards VIP parking and some delicious refreshments prepared”. experienced and highly trained nurses, care workers and showcased some of the best independent retailers, restaurants, We are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care hotel services teams offer long-term care arrangements cafes and local businesses Brent has and service to every resident, the purpose-built home in for residents in the home, or convalescence care for those to offer. Cricklewood is designed using discreet state-of-the-art who need a bit of extra support to help them recover Over 70 businesses applied this year so technology and facilities while ensuring comfortable and following an injury or an accident. This includes nursing competition was fierce and standards care and care for people living with memory loss. extremely high. luxurious surroundings. Winners included Mind the Game for ‘Best Our well-being team will offer a rich and social programme Candlewood House will be open to residents’ admissions Shop Front’ and La Bottega di Anna for ‘Best of meaningful activities every day – benefiting mind, from February 2020. For more information visit Business Interior’. Kiln Theatre won two body and soul – from various clubs and trips out, to crafts, tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house or call 020 8108 9615 categories this year for ‘Best Cultural Event/ Dame Shirley Bassey unveiled a yoga and the celebration of various spiritual festivals. to book a viewing and receive an early booking discount. Activity’ and ‘Friendliest Business’. Anjanaas bronze plaque of her handprints Restaurant won ‘Best Online Presence’ and at Wembley Park’s Square of Fame In Your Face alternatives were recognised for to mark 60 years after she first ‘Best contribution to the environment and performed at the SSE Arena. community’. Finally, Wembley Traders The Diamonds Are Forever singer, Association were awarded for ‘Best Business 82, said she felt “honoured” as she Candlewood House Care Home is Partnership Initiative’. returned to the venue which she first open to admissions February 2020. Small Business Saturday, a national performed at in 1959. Others campaign aimed at encouraging people to Candlewood House Care Home, Bentley Drive, La Bottega di Anna won immortalised in the Square of Fame shop locally, took place on Saturday 7 175-185 Cricklewood Lane, London, NW2 2TD BestBusiness Interior include Madonna, Kylie Minogue, December 2019. Lionel Richie and George Michael. Visit our website for our news blog: Follow our social events on Facebook. tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house 12 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

Xxxxxxxxx F_TLC_0079 Brent magazine FP advertorial - Candlewood House V2.indd 1 15/11/2019 16:29 Advertorial

Candlewood House Care Home: designed with your needs in mind

Candlewood House is the latest care home to be opened Many of which will be open to friends, family and the local by award-winning TLC Care. community. Whilst focusing on well-being, Candlewood Sybil Wright, the home manager, extends a warm House will offer a ‘spectrum of care services’ designed to welcome to everyone interested in coming and visiting meet a low to high level of care needs. the care home. Sybil says: “we are able to welcome visitors Sybil says: “we are still recruiting, although, we are during the day, at weekends as well as in the evenings. delighted to have found many wonderful individuals who If you make an appointment we will make sure to have share our culture of Truth, Love and Compassion”. Our VIP parking and some delicious refreshments prepared”. experienced and highly trained nurses, care workers and We are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care hotel services teams offer long-term care arrangements and service to every resident, the purpose-built home in for residents in the home, or convalescence care for those Cricklewood is designed using discreet state-of-the-art who need a bit of extra support to help them recover technology and facilities while ensuring comfortable and following an injury or an accident. This includes nursing luxurious surroundings. care and care for people living with memory loss. Our well-being team will offer a rich and social programme Candlewood House will be open to residents’ admissions of meaningful activities every day – benefiting mind, from February 2020. For more information visit body and soul – from various clubs and trips out, to crafts, tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house or call 020 8108 9615 yoga and the celebration of various spiritual festivals. to book a viewing and receive an early booking discount.

Candlewood House Care Home is open to admissions February 2020. Candlewood House Care Home, Bentley Drive, 175-185 Cricklewood Lane, London, NW2 2TD Visit our website for our news blog: Follow our social events on Facebook. tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house

F_TLC_0079 Brent magazine FP advertorial - Candlewood House V2.indd 1 15/11/2019 16:29 NEWS Good causes in Brent MOBOs coming hit the jackpot Thinking of what to buy for home to Brent a Christmas The biggest global celebration of gift? Look no black music and culture, the MOBO further as Awards, is coming home to Brent in tickets for the the same year the borough becomes Brent Community Lottery are on London Borough of Culture. sale from December. 2020 will see the MOBOs back in Brent Your friends and family will thank after a two-year break. Huge British stars you as anyone who buys a ticket will be including Stormzy, Amy Winehouse and in with the chance to win up to Sade have all taken to the MOBO stage £25,000 while raising money for a previously as well as international icons local good cause of their choosing. such as Jay-Z and Beyonce. Kanya King at the 60% of cash raised goes straight to Making the announcement at the Brent 2020 launch local good causes with the other 40% Brent 2020 programme launch at The providing the prize fund, and covering Kiln Theatre in November MOBO CEO We are returning with even more VAT and the running of the scheme. and former Brent resident Kanya King determination and energy to support and The community lottery will provide a said: “We felt empowered to bring boost our culture wherever we can.” cash boost for Brent’s Voluntary and MOBO back to Brent to coincide with the The awards ceremony will take place Community Sector. borough’s Year of Culture because this is on 12 November 2020 at The SSE If you would like to register as a ‘good where our fight to challenge the status Arena, Wembley. Tickets are available cause’ or would like to buy a ticket, visit: quo to create a level playing field started. now at www.mobo.com/tickets www.brentcommunitylottery.co.uk South Kilburn estate residents say YES to new homes plans Residents in South Kilburn have overwhelmingly backed council plans to rebuild their neighbourhood, following the biggest ever resident ballot of its kind in London. Residents in South Kilburn have overwhelmingly backed council plans to rebuild their neighbourhood, following the biggest ever resident ballot of its kind in London. 84% of eligible residents living in blocks that are planned to be demolished voted ‘Yes’ with 72% of residents taking part in the autumn ballot. The ballot was the first in Brent, and largest in the capital, since a new initiative from the Mayor of London made funding for council home building programmes dependent on approval from residents. The new guidelines make sure “The community has always been at the heart of plans to local people have the final say on the future of their improve South Kilburn, so it is only right that local people neighbourhoods. had the final say on the future of their neighbourhood,” said The regeneration of South Kilburn is already halfway Councillor Shama Tatler, Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for through. Following the Yes vote, 1,400 homes for existing Regeneration, Property & Planning. “Over the past 10 years council tenants and households in temporary accommodation we have carried out a tremendous amount of work will be rebuilt. Meanwhile, other improvements to the alongside residents, listening to their views and ensuring neighbourhood including parks, roads and open spaces will these are prioritised. That will continue to be the case as the now also go ahead as planned. award-winning regeneration programme moves forward.”

14 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 NEWS Community support ‘gateway’ opens

Older or disabled people who need partnership led by Age UK Brent, The civic help accessing community activities Harrow and Hillingdon with support centre or advocacy, and carers who need from Harrow Mencap and Capable flag at support, can now get help from Communities. half mast various locations across Brent Cllr Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for thanks to the Brent Gateway Adult Social Care said: “This new Tribute to victims Partnership which launched on 2 gateway partnership will allow us to December 2019. enhance the levels of service we offer to Providing Care Act Advocacy; Mental residents. of the London Health Act Advocacy; Mental Capacity “As the services will be delivered from Act Advocacy; Carers support services hubs around Brent, it will be easier for Bridge attack and Social Isolation Prevention, the new some of the more vulnerable residents The flag over Brent Civic Centre flew ‘Gateway to Support Services’ will to access them. The new model will also at half mast on Saturday 30 November provide a more joined up service by mean users only need to speak to one to honor the victims of the terrorist enabling users to have a single point of provider who will assess their needs. attack which took place in London access to a range of services. This will allow for a more seamless and Bridge on Friday 29 November. Brent Gateway Partnership is a new joined up service.” Our thoughts are with the innocent people who tragically lost their lives or were injured, their friends, family, and anyone else affected by this incident. We would also like to extend our Tee-rific achievement for thanks to the emergency services and ordinary Londoners who showed Wembley teenager incredible bravery.

Rafiah Banday from Wembley joined some of the biggest names in golf in November True grit to keep when she took part in the 2019 Justin Rose main roads moving Telegraph Junior Golf Championship final in Portugal. England Girls international Rafiah, 16, was one of 24 young people aiming for victory at the event which is regarded as junior golf’s ‘unofficial Major’. The Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club member, who plays off scratch, finished seventh in the tournament.

With all five gritters serviced and 326 grit bins filled with more than 1,000 tonnes of salt, Brent is ready for a cold snap this winter. Main roads will be prioritised for gritting so that emergency vehicles and public transport can keep moving. Residents on smaller side streets can use the on street grit bins and please remember to look out for older or more vulnerable neighbours in bad weather. For the latest updates visit www.brent.gov.uk/gritting

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 15 MY COMMUNITY Sky high ambition 19-year-old Kathan Dudhela from Wembley is the UK’s youngest flight instructor. Sarah Whyte spoke to him about his passion for the skies

’ve always been interested in flying. When I was younger I used to go to Heathrow airport to watch planes,” says Kathan. Kathan was so passionate about flying that he would take public transport to the airport and spend the whole day plane spotting, taking pictures of planes and speaking to pilots. “I’d stop pilots while they were shopping and ask them if Ithey had any advice about how they started and how I should go about my training. I’ve spoken to around 50 or 60 pilots in the past few years.” The guidance Kathan received helped him make a key decision about his future. After completing his A Levels, Kathan was unable to go to University due to visa issues. Instead, he decided that it was think about careers. “When people are young they are the right time for him to get his private pilot’s licence. moulded to follow a specific path. GCSEs, A Levels, Uni “Learning to fly is expensive so I saved money from my part-time then go and find a career. Hopefully I can get the message job to pay for the training and my family helped as well. I trained for across that you don’t have to go to university to be a pilot. around a year to get my pilot’s licence. “People think that I am really smart, but I’m not. I got “After that, I was lucky enough to get a two-month work average grades at GCSE. You don’t need to be smart, you experience programme at a flight school in Elstree. I completed just need motivation and to research which option is the 300 hours of flying and then did the course to become an best one for you to complete your goals.” instructor. Now I work teaching people how to fly. Many of the This high flier isn’t going to stop after he gets his people I teach are twice my age. commercial licence. One of Kathan’s other aims is to “When I’m not teaching, I’m studying for my commercial exams. I compete against other pilots in aerobatics competitions. have to pass 15 tests so I need to focus hard. After that I can do my “I’ve been told by other pilots that commercial flying commercial flight test and get my commercial licence.” can sometimes get boring. I hope I’ll be able to enjoy the Kathan hopes that his experience will help change the way people freedom of the sky rather than sticking to just one role.”

16 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 Kathan Dudhela, the UK’s youngest flight instructor

Highflyer: Kathan Dudhela with some of the aircraft he has seen or flown MY COMMUNITY Celebrating the Pride of Brent Pride of Brent Community heroes from across Brent were Awards celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony which Winners 2019 took place at the Brent Civic Centre last month

he Pride of Brent Awards recognises selfless All of the Pride of Brent winners were invited to receive individuals, community groups, local businesses their award by members of the judging panel including and council workers who go that extra mile to make Councillor Ernest Ezeajughi, the Mayor of Brent and Councillor TBrent a better place to live and work. Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council.

Community group of the year Volunteer of the year

Fly Girls Wellness Services Cross Locality Harlesden Willesden

Charles Morris Amalia Manuela Moisoiu Claudette Campbell

Wembley – Mansoor Akram Mansoor is a wonderful ambassador for ICC Wembley. For 15 years he has been instrumental in assisting the youth to divert their energy and enthusiasm into positive sports activities such as pool, table tennis and cricket. Mr Akram also visits the elderly, keeping check on those who have no emotional or family support Good neighbour of the year and serves as a volunteer neighbourhood coordinator. In this role he facilitated the Fryent – Cathryn Walsh Dollis Hill – Pratima Patalia development of Brent Multi Faith Forum peace walk in 2018 which was a massive hit.

18 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 Inspirational young person Young Volunteer of the year of the year Riya Gir Within school, Riya is a well-liked, personable Deeva Karnani Shah character who is trusted by her peers and Deeva is an award-winning author and teachers alike. She supports events in school, published her first book aged only eight. She such as Open days and Parents Evenings with a constantly travels to schools, libraries and positive attitude and fulfils the role of School events to inspire other children to fall in love ambassador perfectly. with words and stories.

Community champion of the year

Cross localities Cross localities Harlesden Kilburn Wembley Willesden

Natalie Bourne-Moses Usha Sharma Janelle Victory Nadia Penn Susan Howlett Elsie Staple Pamphile (on behalf of Geoffrey Howlett)

The Mayor’s Award SME of the Year The Leaders Award

Lamabuild LTD Daniels Estate Agents Queens Park Harriers

Daniels Estate Agents opened in 1992 in Wembley and now there are five locations in Brent. Francis Henry is a man who leads by example and Daniels was the first business in Wembley to go plastic free. Daniel championed #plasticfree Wembley and LED lights were installed in 2014, improving Daniels BREAAM ratings.

Responsible business of the year Community project of the year Apprentice of the Year

BANG Edutainment BAPS Healthcare Team: Cardiovascular Screening Project Shakira Moses

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 19 Man on a MISSION

Stephen wrote I’m A Gun in 2012 Harlesden resident Stephen Graham is a man on a mission Stephen works as a personal trainer to help local young people, writes Petula Hippolyte

s a qualified personal trainer, author, filmmaker and recording artist, Stephen took his passion for helping young people and families to develop Stephen Graham Projects – a series of workshops that aim to help young people be the best that they can be. Brought up on the old South Kilburn Estate, Stephen Ahad run ins with the law due to his anti-social behaviour, triggered by his own childhood trauma. This bad behaviour resulted in Stephen being locked up in Jamaica, where he served eight years behind bars. Stephen said: “I had a bit of a hard time growing up and it affected the way I acted and carried myself. It wasn’t long before I was getting in trouble a lot.” In 2006 Stephen came out of prison and was determined to turn his life around. “I rehabilitated myself in prison and I knew that I didn’t want to live that life anymore. I wanted to change my life and lead by example. So I started studying again, I mentored people and when I felt that I had enough experience I decided to start my business.” The Stephen Graham Project was founded in 2014. Stephen works with young people and their families to address issues such as knife and gun crime as well as working with community groups to deliver real change. Stephen highlights the connection between psychological trauma and anti-social behaviour and recognises that some young people struggle to cope with situations because of traumatising experiences that can result in young people finding themselves in gangs and getting involved in knife and gun crime. His interactive sessions help to build trust, confidence, self-esteem

20 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 SAFER BRENT

‘I work with young people because I have been there and have come out the other side. I want to inspire young people in Brent to achieve their goals and aim higher with their dreams. I often say to the people I work with, look at my background and look where I came from. If I can do it, then so can you.’

and motivation for life. Reflecting on your own actions and working on positive resolutions, are key components. Stephen said: “Trauma can manifest in many different ways and it can have a huge effect on the way people behave. I work with young people and their families to try and help people to get through their existing trauma and work on ways to reduce future trauma as well.” Stephen’s inclusive approach makes him keen to involve parents in his programme, where support is offered to reduce parental stress. This happens in a confidential setting and can help improve relationships between parents and their children by encouraging positive interactions. Recently, Stephen screened his 3D animated film on knife and gun crime titled I Am based around his book I’m A Gun which he wrote in 2012. Stephen aims to use this film as a tool in his seven session programme, also titled ‘I Am’, which addresses factors such as trauma, neglect, family breakdown and violent crime which can lead to anti-social behaviour.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 21 REGENERATION Community cash splash Money paid by developers who are building in Brent is funding new community projects and activities

The Community Infrastructure Levy facilities and services including developers, the council has been able to (CIL) is a charge that local authorities neighbourhood projects run by award around £7.7million to more than can set on new development to raise local people. 160 projects to improve local cash to help pay for infrastructure, Thanks to the money received from neighbourhoods.

Cricklewood Boxing Club £65,000 In only its third year of existence, Cricklewood Boxing Club has demonstrated both its ambition and potential by producing national and regional champions. In 2018 it was looking for a new home and took over the disused basement of the Cricklewood Railway Club – but it needed a lot of work. “We went as far as we could with funding and that’s when the council stepped into help us,” said Rob Buick, Senior Coach at Cricklewood Boxing Club. The club received over £65,000 from Brent Council. This paid for new toilets, showers, changing rooms, air conditioning, electrical work and some building work. New floors were put in, new bags were bought and they also purchased a new boxing ring. “The funding enabled us to bring it up to the standard we needed”. “A lot of the kids that come in here have very low self-esteem and no confidence, they can’t even look you in the eye. They may be from a broken family, they come from all backgrounds”. “First thing we do in here is encourage them. After four to six weeks, you can see the difference in their personality, their confidence, their self-esteem, that’s what boxing gives you.”

22 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 REGENERATION

Harlesden Town Phoenix Rising £34,000 Centre Club House £40,000

Local charity Phoenix Rising provides free music lessons for children and young people through the ‘Steel Pan in the Community Initiative.’ “We get them on track, we keep them on track, so that they become the high achievers wherever they go and whatever they do”. Phoenix Rising received £34,000 to assist them with purchasing musical instruments for their organisation. This Harlesden families celebrated the official opening will allow them to double the number of people they teach. of Harlesden Town Garden’s new Community Hub in “This means at last we can start to focus on some of the the Autumn. serious things. Our young people need support in education The Harlesden Town Garden chef prepared the food for the and in simply growing up. The equipment will allow us to hold event and there were arts, crafts and musical activities for them in one place and to actually do proper developmental the whole family. work with them. www.phoenixrisingnw10.org/ Since 2013 the Harlesden Town Garden has brought together local people with a shared interest for gardening and healthy living. ‘The purpose of our project is to Friends of Harlesden Town Garden applied to Brent Council in 2017 for funding to complete the final part of the town raise the self-esteem and the garden’s infrastructure. self-worth of young people’ Patrick McKay, Trustee at Phoenix Rising. WE’RE SEEKING LOCAL VIEWS ON NCIL. Find out more at www.brent.gov.uk/NCIL

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 23 ARTS & CULTURE Round two: 2020 Culture Fund projects announced The 2020 Culture Fund is a grant scheme which enables local people and groups in Brent to lead their own cultural projects as part of Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture

In the second round, 23 brilliant projects were chosen to receive funding by a community panel. BRENT CULTURE SWITCH The 2020 Culture Fund offers grants of up to £3,000 for ActionSpace invites Brent residents with learning disabilities individuals and grants of up to £10,000 for organisations. to celebrate what it means to live in the borough through a The 2020 Culture Fund supports cultural activities of all series of art workshops and a community festival at Barham shapes and sizes and across all art forms. Artists, creatives, Park in July 2020. community groups and cultural organisations based or BRENT ENSEMBLE EXPLOSION working in Brent are invited to apply for funding. The third and final round launched on Wednesday 4 Brent Ensemble Explosion is a collaboration between the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Brent Music Service, December 2019 with a deadline of 4 February 2020. allowing over 10,000 young people across Brent to create For more information, visit www.brent2020.co.uk. their own anthem for 2020. THE CULTURE CLASH COLLECTIVE AiR An exciting and original collaboration between dancers of Artists in Residence (AiR) will support Brent schools in different styles and cultural backgrounds, produced by local deprived areas, enhancing their cultural curriculum by student Samara Roach-Keiler. creating opportunities for them to work with high calibre artists and cultural organisations. CULTURE MOVE (SAMPLED HISTORY) AQ ARTS YOUTH COMPANY Spanning art, music and performance, Culture Move (Sampled History) is a dynamic exhibition from artist and This project will give birth to the AQ Arts Youth Company: for curator Jon Kehoe, tracing the diverse cultural heritage of talented singers, dancers and spoken word poets who want Brent and exploring the history of sampled music in the to excel in the arts; their debut public performance will be as borough since the advent of hip-hop in the 1980s. part of The Kilburn High street party. #GETHEARD BACK TO FRONT Girls I Rate’s #GETHEARD will showcase the next generation Produced by the Jason Roberts Foundation, The Back To Front of female artists, songwriters, poets, producers, rappers and project takes place in Stonebridge and will showcase sound DJs and create opportunities for young people in Brent to systems from the golden age of reggae and rare groove. learn and network with top music and entertainment industry professionals. BRENT: THE BOROUGH OF US A digital media project for local young people to gain the JOIN THE PARTY skills they need to tell their stories, led by Brent charity Sport An inclusive theatre project for adults with learning at the Heart. disabilities and/or autism, run by RootPrints Theatre.

24 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 ARTS & CULTURE Participants will explore their diverse and vibrant roles as part of Brent’s community. GIRLS THE KILBURN TAPESTRIES I RATE From Electronic Sheep, The Kilburn Tapestries is a knitted tapestry wall-hanging, based on the untold stories of the Irish community in Brent. THE NO BASS LIKE HOME FILM PROJECT ROSE ROUSE The contribution of black British filmmakers, from Horace ELECTRONIC SHEEP Ove to Menelik Shabazz onwards, is a vital part of British © CHRISTIAN PALEN film history and a proud cultural legacy of our borough; Bass culture plays a huge role in every film in this season, presented at The Lexi Cinema in partnership with We Are Parable and Black History Studies. THE OCTOBER ANTHROPOLOGIST Anthropological research into the lives of southern and eastern European immigrants from Brent who work as ADDICTIVE TV baristas in London cafés. The research findings will be analysed and interpreted by local artists and exhibited in Willesden Green. THE OTHER YOUTHS From Kilburn design company To The T, The Other Youths is a THE REGGAE TICKET film created to evoke more empathy and compassion From Tomorrow’s Warriors, this project celebrates the iconic Brent towards young people who become involved in violent crime. record label Trojan Records and will bring together jazz, orchestral instruments, rhythm sections and vocalists into a new ensemble. OUR JOURNEYS Our Journeys is a live cinema performance by Addictive TV THE VOICE OF WOMEN IN REGGAE collaborating with blind musicians, involving Brent residents Real Talk Productions UK will bring together the women of the sharing their stories of how they came to live in the borough. Windrush generation to talk about the role reggae played in their transition from Caribbean to UK life in an event marking International QUEEN’S PARK BOOK FESTIVAL Women’s Day at the BBMC Music Complex in Willesden. Queen’s Park Book Festival is a celebration of the literary arts and in 2020 the themes of recent festivals - immigrant 20/20 THIS IS NOW identities, childhood memories and local history - will be A curated photography exhibition and book from local designer explored even further. and fashion lecturer Lucy Fine, documenting the style of Brent’s vibrant residents. A copy of the book will be gifted to each of the THE REGGAE HERITAGE PROJECT ten libraries in the borough. A reggae parade taking inspiration from the achievements of key local heroes, Mahogany Carnival Design will produce WORD UP LONDON an imaginative collection of costumes that chart the rise of A series of six spoken word workshops in Harlesden, led by a reggae in the borough, presented by children from Brent selection of nationally and internationally renowned poets, schools, in an amazing carnival street performance in rappers and wordsmiths. Harlesden town centre on 3 October 2020. WILLESDEN JUNCTION POETS THE REGGAE TAXI IN RESIDENCE Carpool karaoke reggae performances with local During this project, Rose Rouse will gather eight fellow Brent poets musicians and artists, to be captured by Brent filmmaker to celebrate - in the form of new poems, a book and a launch - the Carole Joie Thompson and shared online and at events importance, the beauty and the industrial bleakness of Willesden throughout the year, along with participant interviews. Junction station.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 25 ENVIRONMENT World on fire A climate emergency has been declared by Brent Council. Tara Benham explores what this means for Brent residents and discovers some actions we can all take to help slow down global warming

want you to act as if the house is on fire, because it is.” WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP? Those were the words of Greta Thunberg at a meeting of world Going green isn’t just good for the environment. Other benefits include leaders in January 2019. cleaner air, healthier travel, greener spaces and warmer homes! Here The 16-year-old has become are a few simple things to get you started... Ifamous for her campaign to encourage countries to take urgent action on 1. BUY LESS AND REUSE. Save your pocket and the planet by buying less global heating. Nations, including the UK, Austria, and trying to reuse what you have. This applies to food, clothes, furniture... Canada and Argentina, have declared a the list goes on. Love Food Hate Waste’s website has great recipes for climate emergency because changing using up leftovers. weather patterns make extreme events, such as heatwaves, droughts 2. AVOID PLASTIC. Lots of shops now sell loose fruit and veg, shampoo bars and floods, much more likely. To limit in reusable tins, and beeswax wraps which can be used instead of cling the effects of global heating, film. scientists say that we need to make big changes now. 3. CUT THE CAR. Walk shorter journeys, use public transport, or hop on a bike. Brent Council has declared a climate and ecological emergency. It pledged to 4. SWITCH OFF. Save energy and cut your fuel bill by switching off lights and do everything reasonable in its ability to appliances when not in use. Check the Energy Saving Trust’s website for strive for carbon neutrality by 2030. more tips. That means that the council will be using its influence at a local level to 5. IF YOU OWN YOUR OWN HOME... make Brent greener. A new plan, which will be informed by a new Climate • Check your loft and cavity walls are properly insulated Assembly made up of residents (read • Look into installing solar panels more on p6), will be unveiled in 2020. • Consider replacing gas boilers and hobs with greener alternatives • Install a water butt. Use the rain you collect to water your plants, clean your car and wash your windows

26 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 ENVIRONMENT IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM Here’s how Brent Council is creating a greener Brent in numbers

More than More than 766 150 tonnes of 22 1,000 plastic saved by wildflower meadows new trees planted solar panels installed through the Plastic Free making up Brent’s over the next council-supported scheme Wembley bee corridor two years Solar Together, saving 49 campaign tonnes of carbon each year 115 16% drop in the most polluting cars after changes to 21,000 parking permits LED street lights installed, charging points for reducing carbon emissions electric vehicles installed across the by 62% DID YOU borough with 60 more planned by KNOW? March 2020 Just 37% of household waste is DID reused, recycled, or YOU KNOW? composted. Carbon emissions in Brent fell by 35% between 2005 and 2017.

“I want you to act as if the house is on fire, because it is.” Greta Thunberg

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 27 HEALTHY LIVING Heavyweight problem With obesity rates continuing to grow in the UK, Sophie Leer looks at how the council is tackling the issue and suggests four ways to help improve your physical health

ne in three children are obese by the time they EXERCISE DAILY leave primary school in Daily exercise doesn’t need to be hard work. Even small Brent. By 2034, an amounts of activity can be beneficial. Brent Council estimated 70% of encourages children to walk, cycle and scoot to school and adults will be have also introduced the Daily Mile into 31 schools to Ooverweight or obese. encourage children to walk, run or jog for at least 15 Brent Council is spending £200,000 minutes every day. from the nation-wide Sugar Tax to improve facilities and encourage GO FOR A HEALTHY WALK healthy eating in 23 schools. Initiatives The Healthy Walks Programme runs at a number of Brent include healthy cookery projects, parks and is free for all residents. It’s a great way to have balance bikes and new PE equipment. fun and meet new people whilst improving your fitness. The council also supports more than For more information visit www.brent.gov.uk/sports. 3,000 Year 6 children to become Junior Citizens each year which involves the WRAP UP WARM AND VISIT AN students finding out about the large OUTDOOR GYM amounts of sugar ‘hidden’ in some of There are 19 outdoor gyms in local parks across the their favourite foods. The council’s borough with a variety of equipment to help you manage Healthy Weight Management Team also your weight, tone, strength and generally help you get works with families of children who are fitter. If you need help, you can sign up to induction overweight offering support, advice and sessions with qualified gym instructors to help you get the training for parents on healthy eating. most from your workout. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/ Restaurants are also being outdoorgyms. encouraged to sign up to the Healthier Catering Commitment which recognises businesses that are SLASH SUGAR actively promoting healthier cooking Cut sugar out of your diet for one day a week to reduce practices. So far, 18 fast food outlets calories, and why not make it your new year’s resolution to have been awarded this status. do it every week? Share your progress on Twitter and So what can you do to lead a healthier tag @Brent_Council lifestyle this winter?

28 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 HEALTHY LIVING

You can excercise for free Heavyweight problem in the outdoor gyms

Join one of the many healthy walks in the borough

Cut down on sugar and eat more veg

‘We all need to do more to make sure we lead healthy lives, and there’s lots going on across the borough throughout the winter that residents can get involved with alongside enjoying the festivities.’ Cllr Krupesh Hirani, Cabinet Member for Public Health

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 29 Brent Clinical Commissioning Group Save the date – Wednesday 19 November 2014 The Brent Health Partners Forum

Do you want to talk about health services Date: in Brent? Would you like to hear how Wednesday the NHS is changing in the borough? 19 November 2014 Then save the date and attend the next health partners forum. Time: 6.00pm – 8.00pm The forum brings together members of the local community with representatives (Registration open from the NHS, the local authority and refreshments and voluntary sector to discuss health served from 5.15pm) and social care issues in Brent. Venue: The event is organised by NHS Brent To be confirmed Clinical Commissioning Group which is responsible for planning and designing many health services in the borough.

For more information please email: [email protected] or call 020 8795 6107/6122

Attention all landlords Properties wanted Since 1968 Shepherds Bush Housing Association has been a trusted part of the local community, now managing more than 5,000 homes. For 25 years, we’ve been managing, maintaining and guaranteeing rents for landlords. Contact us to We are looking for properties in all areas on GUARANTEED or discuss your options PRIVATE rent. Cash incentives offered. and to arrange a no obligation visit GUARANTEED RENT SCHEME PRIVATE RENT SCHEME • Advance monthly rent • Yearly contracts Landlords hotline: • No management fee or commission – • Guaranteed Rent* 020 8996 4271 we pay what we quote • Tenant referencing for your [email protected] • chosen tenant www.sbhg.co.uk/landlords • Grants funding advice • Free photo inventory • No void works if the property becomes • 24/7 repairs service** and empty within lease (exceptions apply) furniture supply • Full Management or Rent Collection

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28 THE BRENT MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2014

7135_TBM141_ P28Stand Brent CCG SBhousing.indd 2 Together 9/9/14 15:06:26 Genocidal regimes throughout history have deliberately fractured societies by marginalising certain groups. Now, more than ever, we need to stand together with others in our communities in order to stop division and the spread of hatred in our society. In the years leading up to the Holocaust, Nazi policies and propaganda deliberately encouraged divisions within German society – urging ‘Aryan’ Germans to keep themselves separate from their Jewish neighbours. The Holocaust, Nazi Persecution of other groups and each subsequent genocide, was enabled by ordinary citizens not standing with their targeted neighbours. Today there is increasing division in communities across the UK and the world. Now more than ever, we need to stand together with others in our communities in order to stop division and the spread of identity-based hostility in our society. Holocaust Memorial Day | 7-9pm Tuesday 21 January Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, London HA9 0FJ

30 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 HAPPY & HEALTHY Growing green Trees mark the seasons. They clean up our air and, according to research, they can even reduce stress, writes Tara Benham

here are over 43,000 trees in Brent, brightening up our streets and green spaces, and the council is committed to planting at least 520 new trees each year. That target was smashed this year thanks to cash from a Mayor of London community project. 400 extra saplings were planted in the borough’s Tparks in 2019. In recent weeks, residents have raised concerns about trees that have been identified as needing to be removed. Inspectors give Brent’s trees regular check-ups to make sure they are healthy and thriving. They try to catch any problems, like decay or a list, early on and take action to keep them in tip-top condition. Removing a tree is always a last resort, and the council will often plant a new tree in the same spot or close by. However, trees have a natural life cycle. When they die or decay, they can become unstable and often need to be taken away in case they fall on someone. Sometimes a tree is removed because it has grown in such a way that it has made the pavement unsafe and poses a risk for disabled, vulnerable or elderly residents. In the colder months, you might also notice that the upper branches of some specimens are trimmed. Pruning plays an important part in keeping them healthy, as well as encouraging them to grow in a safe way. Cllr Krupa Sheth, Lead Member for Environment at Brent Council, said “Trees have a kind of natural superpower – the xxxxxx ability to hoover up carbon and clean up our air. Around 400 extra saplings the world, they will play an important part of helping us were planted in 2019 tackle the climate emergency. That’s why we are committed to in Brent’s parks planting more trees each year in Brent.”

Speaking of trees, did you know that the council organises Christmas tree recycling drop-off points? For more details, go to www.brent.gov.uk/christmastree. Forestry England have a tool on their website that lets you search for sustainable Christmas trees near you that have been grown here in the UK. Or, better still, rent a living Christmas tree this year!

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 31 WPM_BrentMagazine_New.indd 1 32 ADVERTORIAL www.wembleyparkmarket.com 27-29 OLYMPIC WAY, HA90FR TUE-SAT 11-7PM|SUN11-5PM YOUR BRENT |WINTER 2019/2020 Independent, Ethical and Sustainable Merchants, Makers and Doers A community of VINTAGE pop-ups music workshops PLANTS HOMEWARES BARBERSHOP gifts crafts wellness arts food fashion lifestyle

duck pond market PATOKA the famous Wembley Stadium. Designer OutletCentre, Wembley SSEArenaand Way,on Olympic closeto Boxpark, theLondon every item. Wembley ParkMarket issituated love anddedication isdemonstrated ineachand from independentmerchantswhosecraft, skill, buy handmade,ethical andsustainableproducts people, WPMoffers customers theopportunityto together world classuniquebrands, productsand and crafts, healthandwellness, andbringing any other.Combining lifestyle, fashion, food, arts Park Market isaretailmarket emporiumunlike of Wembley Park,therecently launchedWembley remember. Aspartof theongoingregeneration as visitors to theoriginalWembley Market will Wembley ParkMarket isn’tyour typical market, dorants andmetalstraws! bamboo toothbrushes to natural deo Think everything fromplasticwraps and environmentally conscientious consumer. for the cleaning productsandaccessories dried food products,sustainabletoiletries, stocking zero-waste, packaging-free store, Patoka isNorth-West London’sfirst high street. the on found production of goods A welcome antidote to the mass- ventures. eco-friendly by made trade companies andsustainably businesses, ethically madeby fair made by independentsmall comes from a ‘goodplace’. Locally artisan marketers whereeverything ethical together local, sustainable and maker andphoto taker. Itbrings a planet-friendlymother,market by Duck PondMarket isrun -

LONDON BEARD COMPANY FARE the best products and services available.the bestproductsandservices man take prideinhisappearance, using fellow enterprise, theiraimisto helpthe community andamovement thanan to flowing the full beardsmen. More a beard growers, fromthestubblygeeks Beard Company, cater for alltypesof Specialist barbers,London the tastebuds. Fare isafeast for theeyes aswell as to offer somethingto suitevery taste, Curated away. speciality foods to take meals, healthy living,sweet treatsand made upof deliciousfrozen brands, independent andfamily-run grocery market offers anexciting selectionof The new food hubattheheartof the 26/11/2019 10:08 WPM_BrentMagazine_New.indd 1 ADVERTORIAL www.wembleyparkmarket.com 27-29 OLYMPIC WAY, HA90FR TUE-SAT 11-7PM|SUN11-5PM Independent, Ethical and Sustainable Merchants, Makers and Doers A community of VINTAGE pop-ups music workshops PLANTS HOMEWARES BARBERSHOP gifts crafts wellness arts food fashion lifestyle

LONDON BEARD COMPANY FARE the best products and services available.the bestproductsandservices man take prideinhisappearance, using fellow enterprise, theiraimisto helpthe community andamovement thanan to flowing the full beardsmen. More a beard growers, fromthestubblygeeks Beard Company, cater for alltypesof Specialist barbers,London the tastebuds. Fare isafeast for theeyes aswell as to offer somethingto suitevery taste, Curated away. speciality foods to take meals, healthy living,sweet treatsand made upof deliciousfrozen brands, independent andfamily-run grocery market offers anexciting selectionof The new food hubattheheartof the YOUR BRENT |WINTER 2019/2020 26/11/2019 10:08 33 FOOD & DRINK

Eritrean Food Kensal style Eden Bokrezion, founder of Kensal Rise based supper club Amaresh + Zefan, talks to Jessica Alves about overcoming the fear of failure to find her purpose

any graduates face post- After building professional culinary skills university blues when they at Minkie’s Deli, Eden spent a year working ‘Minkie’s kindly offered me finish studying. Finding your in a renowned restaurant in Soho, feet in the world of work can eventually working up to a senior role where space to host monthly leave many former students she ran the kitchen. It was through this, Eritrean supper clubs, to Mfeeling uncertain and rejected job that she gained the confidence to start a show my love for my applications can make them question new venture. their passions and purpose. “Minkie’s kindly offered me space to host upbringing and community’ “I graduated with no intention of monthly Eritrean supper clubs, to show my becoming a chef,” explains Eden. “I was a love for my upbringing and community,” says History and Film Studies graduate and I set Eden.” You don’t tend to see Eritrean food in my ambitions high. I felt confident that my the high end Western culinary scene. I want degree and experience would get me a great to celebrate it and see where I can take it, junior role. However, that didn’t happen. while keeping its tradition of being “Instead I decided to register as a cooking unapologetically African. volunteer for Food Cycle Cricklewood - a “I named my supper club after my charity which provides meals for people grandmothers Amaresh Woldu and Zefan living in difficult circumstances. All Bokrezion as I want to remind people volunteers have an input into what is cooked whenever they eat at Amaresh + Zefan that on the day, and because Brent is so diverse, what they’re eating was learnt from my that was reflected in our kitchen and our mum, who learnt that from her mother, and menu was very creative.” then her mother.” “Working at Food Cycle was a massive “Looking back, the great thing about not turning point for me. It was the first time finding a job straight after university, was that I cooked for over 40 people and it was that it gave me time to discover what very fulfilling to see how much they enjoyed made me happy. It helped me to figure the food. It was the first time I could see out my purpose and build a career off that, myself cooking in a professional as opposed to doing what I felt like I had to environment and it was there I gained the do just because of my degree. Some things experience I needed to land a job at Minkie’s can only be learnt during periods of Deli, Kensal Rise as a kitchen chef.” uncertainty.”

34 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 FOOD & DRINK

EDEN’S DOBA ZIGNI RECIPE Kensal style SERVES 6-8

INGREDIENTS 100ml Sunflower oil 3 Large onions, finely chopped 3 Garlic cloves, minced 120g Berbere powder 200ml Hot water 1 Butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1.5-inch cubes ½ Tin of chopped tomatoes, blended until smooth

METHOD 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a low heat. Add the onions and fry until golden brown. Then, mix in the garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes 2. Add the berbere powder, followed by 100ml of hot water. Stir, before covering with a lid, and simmer for 10 minutes until the liquid has reduced into a thick sauce. 3. Add the remaining water to the pan and stir until it thickens again. This pro- cess is key in mellowing the spice level. 4. Once the sauce has thickened, add the tomatoes and leave to simmer on a low heat for 30 minutes. 5. Then, add the butternut squash to the pot, and cook for a further 10 minutes. To make sure that the squash is cooked, pierce it with a fork. It should be tender, but slightly firm 6. Serve with injera, or pitta bread. Top with feta cheese, if desired.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 35 Every ticket supports your local community

• Tickets from £1 a week • 60% cash goes directly to local good causes • Prizes up to £25,000 BINGO WIN CASH and give back! To buy a ticket, please visit www.brentcommunitylottery.co.uk BINGO

BINGO 17 MY COUNCIL

BUDGET BALANCING ACT With Brent Council’s budget consultation closing on 31 January, there is still time to have your say on the proposals

ocal government has been under Council, said: “It’s important that residents significant financial pressure in get involved in this consultation so they can recent years due to funding cuts let us know what they think and help us and increasing demand for key make sure we get this right. services. This has meant that “The savings we are proposing do not Lcouncils across the country, including include the wholesale cuts to services that Brent, have needed to make tough choices many councils are considering, but instead about how to spend their money. focus on areas we can make our money go Over the past nine years, the council has further, apply service transformation and found innovative ways to maintain and generate more income. improve services but this has required “Although, like many other councils, we some substantial savings to be made are also consulting on increasing council tax along the way. to help balance the budget and continue to If this budget is agreed, Brent Council deliver key services that residents rely on will need to make £7.4 million of savings in which is our absolute priority.” 2020/21 and £6.1million of savings The full report outlining the council’s between 2021/22 and 2022/23. budget proposals are available at: Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of the www.brent.gov.uk/budgetconsultation

‘It’s important that residents get involved in this consultation so they can let us know what they think and help us make sure we get this right’ Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 37 MY COUNCIL Keep Brent sparkling during the holidays With three bank holidays over Christmas and New Year, there will be some changes to the days your bins are collected

IF YOUR BIN IS DUE TO BE IT WILL NOW BE JINGLE COLLECTED ON… COLLECTED ON… ALL THE WAY… Wednesday 25 December Friday 27 December TO YOUR RECYCLING BIN Thursday 26 December Saturday 28 December Find out which bin to use when all of your food has been eaten and presents Friday 27 December Sunday 29 December are unwrapped by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/recycleopedia Wednesday 1 January Thursday 2 January Thursday 2 January Friday 3 January Friday 3 January Saturday 4 January

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY REAL CHRISTMAS TREE? GARDEN WASTE Getting rid of your Christmas tree after the festive season has ended Garden waste collections take place once can be a headache, but there are a few ways that it can be done: a month during December, January and • Take it to a drop off point in a local park or green space from the February and calendars and collection 4 – 11 January. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/christmastrees for dates are also available using the exact locations and dates. ‘Find Your Collection Day’ search facility. • Cut your tree into pieces and put in your green garden waste bin From the beginning of January you can • Take it to the Reuse and Recycling Centre on Abbey Road, renew or sign up to receive the garden NW10 7TJ, but keep in mind that it will be closed on 25 and waste service. The service costs £60 26 December and 1 January for the entire year. Visit • Arrange for it to be taken as part of our bulky waste service www.brent.gov.uk/gardenwaste which costs £35 for up to five items. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/specialcollections to book a collection

Go online and use the ‘Find Your Collection Day’ search at www.brent.gov.uk/recycling if you’re unsure what dates apply to you. The Reuse and Recycling Centre will be closed on 25 December, 26 December and 1 January.

38 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 MY COUNCIL

USEFUL CONTACTS WASTE AND RECYCLING Bin collection times and recycling waste Need to contact the council or want to find www.brent.gov.uk/recycling out about other services? We’ve made a handy Garden waste service list of all their contact details for you to cut www.brent.gov.uk/gardenwaste out and keep. It’s also easy to visit Pest control treatment www.brent.gov.uk/services-for-residents www.brent.gov.uk/pests for a full list of all services offered by the council EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

ACCESS SERVICES ONLINE Call 999 for the Police, Pay for council tax online Fire Brigade or Call 111 www.brent.gov.uk/counciltax Ambulance services. if you have a medical Make a claim for housing benefit problem that is not an Call 101 www.brent.gov.uk/housingbenefit emergency. to report a crime that Apply for a parking permit is not an emergency. THAMES WATER www.brent.gov.uk/parking Customer Service Contact your local 08459 200 800 safer neighbourhood team AFFINITY WATER COUNCIL MEETINGS www.met.police. Emergency hotline uk/a/your-area 0345 357 2407 Council meetings open to all residents (such as Full Council and Planning) www.brent.gov.uk/meetings OTHER LOCAL SERVICES Raise community issues at Brent Connects WHAT DO I DO WITH MY www.brent.gov.uk/brentconnects Find your Brent MP and how to contact them www.brent.gov.uk/mps REAL CHRISTMAS TREE? Find your ward councillor www.brent.gov.uk/councillors Find your local GP using the NHS search tool Getting rid of your Christmas tree after the festive season has ended www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/ can be a headache, but there are a few ways that it can be done: LocationSearch/4 • Take it to a drop off point in a local park or green space from the 4 – 11 January. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/christmastrees for WINTER TREATS If you want to help someone sleeping rough, exact locations and dates. go to www.streetlink.org.uk • Cut your tree into pieces and put in your green garden waste bin Events and what’s on in Brent this winter If you are concerned about a child call • Take it to the Reuse and Recycling Centre on Abbey Road, Brent Family Front Door on: 020 8937 4300 NW10 7TJ, but keep in mind that it will be closed on 25 and www.brent.gov.uk/events 26 December and 1 January For young people • Arrange for it to be taken as part of our bulky waste service www.brentyouthzone.org.uk OTHER LOCAL SERVICES which costs £35 for up to five items. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/specialcollections to book a collection Check event day parking Harlesden and Kilburn Community Hubs www.brent.gov.uk/eventday www.brent.gov.uk/brenthubs Find a library in Brent Community grants and funding www.brent.gov.uk/libraries www.brent.gov.uk/funding Look for childcare providers Customer Services www.brent.gov.uk/childcare 020 8937 1234

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 39 >> Theatre >> Music >> Dance >> Comedy Arts & >> Exhibitions >> Cinema >> Talks Culture>> Tours we’re living in the best Snowflake NOW UNTIL or worst of SUNDAY 16 times. Kiln Theatre, 269 FEBRUARY Kilburn High HOUSE OF LIFE Road, London, EXHIBITION 7.30pm. An exhibition £10-£32.50. introducing the House of Life at Willesden Jewish NOW UNTIL Cemetery. Willesden Library, 95 High Road, Willesden, London. FRIDAY 31 Various times to 12am. JANUARY HEROES – THE EXHIBITION THURSDAY 19 Sourced from the world- DECEMBER TO Mahogany Carnival renowned Getty Images’ archival and contemporary THURSDAY 2 libraries, it will feature over JANUARY 100 photographs of artists at STAR WARS: THE RISE OF WEDNESDAY 1 NOW UNTIL London’s iconic music and live SKYWALKER JANUARY WEDNESDAY 15 entertainment venue. Getty The surviving Resistance faces Images Gallery, Wembley Park, the First Order once more as MAHOGANY CARNIVAL JANUARY HA9 0GU. Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John London’s New Year’s Day 20:20 STORIES OF Boyega) and Parade 2020. Harlesden-based MOVING LINEAGE Poe Dameron’s Mahogany Carnival will be The Library at Willesden Green. (Oscar Isaac) representing Brent at London’s Various times to 12am. journey New Year’s Day Parade on continues. The 1 January 2020. Mahogany NOW UNTIL Lexi Cinema 194b Carnival is known for costume SATURDAY 25 Chamberlayne crafting and is sure to put on a Road, Kensal show that will impress and get JANUARY Rise, London Londoners talking about Brent. SNOWFLAKE NW10 3JU, FREE. Central London. For more Various details: https://lnydp.com Snowflake is an epic story about generational conflict, fathers Heroes – The Exhibition screenings. and daughters, and whether £11.50.

40 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 ARTS & CULTURE

SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER TO SUNDAY 26 VENUES Ace Cafe JANUARY Ace Corner, North Circular road, FAME THE MUSICAL Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD The critically acclaimed 020 8961 1000, www.london.acecafe.com 30th Anniversary Arena Square production of Fame the Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ Musical will play at the newly opened Troubadour Brent Civic Centre Wembley Park Theatre. Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ Troubadour, Wembley Park Harlesden Library Plus Theatre, 1 Fulton Road, Craven Park Road, Harlesden NW10 8SE London, HA9 8TS. 7.30pm, Kingsbury Library from £10. 522-524 Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury NW9 9HE Kilburn Library FRIDAY 27 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN DECEMBER TO Kiln Theatre THURSDAY 269 Kilburn High Rd, London NW6 7JR 2 JANUARY 020 7328 1000, www.tricycle.co.uk Lexi Cinema FROZEN 2 TUESDAY 7 194B Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JU The kingdom of Arendelle is 020 3011 5523, www. thelexicinema.co.uk at peace. Kristoff is planning JANUARY TO a proposal to Anna, snowman MONDAY 17 The Library at Willesden Green Olaf is loving life in the sun, FEBRUARY 95 High Road, Willesden, London NW10 2SF. and Elsa is content in her role 020 8937 3400, www.brent.gov.uk/lwg as queen – until she hears WINGS AND ORANGES Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre a mysterious song calling Wallis Eates is a comics artist 3 Fulton Rd, Wembley HA9 0SP, her out into the wilderness. and storyteller who takes www.troubadourtheatres.com The Lexi Cinema, 194b inspiration from real life Chamberlayne Road, Kensal narratives, promoting voices rarely Wembley Library Rise, London NW10 3JU. heard. The Lexi Cinema, 194b Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, 10.30am from £5. Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, Wings and Oranges Wembley HA9 0FJ London NW10 3JU. 11am-6.30pm. YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 41 RISE - Brent 2020’s spectacular opener RISE is the opening event for Brent’s year as the London Borough of Culture in 2020. It is an outdoor spectacular telling the story of Brent through dance, film and an amazing soundtrack with a community cast of hundreds. We caught up with Robby Graham, the director and choreographer of RISE … What is the vision behind RISE? I was struck by how unique the borough was with the waves of migration and cultural offerings. I see my job as a facilitator; it’s about trying to make something that people can be happy about and feel involved and included. It’s an amazing production on the power of community and a celebration of everything within Brent. Were there any specific inspirations that helped you choreograph RISE? Many scenes in the production are inspired by stories in the borough and are linked to different communities in the borough. Historically, there are so many different things to explore – amazing people, poets, athletes, thinkers from Brent. How does RISE fit in with the Brent 2020 programme? It’s going to be a spectacular year; we’re only one small part of that. We just want to make Opening Event of Brent 2020 RISE

Met Opera: Wozzeck

Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne SATURDAY 11 SUNDAY 12 WEDNESDAY 22 Road. Kensal Rise, London, JANUARY TO JANUARY JANUARY NW10 3JU. 2pm. £30. SUNDAY 12 MET OPERA: WOZZECK VISIONS OF LIGHT JANUARY After wowing audiences with An art exhibition by Stanislas his astounding production of Slavomir Blatton and Protoklis JIMMY CARR - TERRIBLY FUNNY Lulu in 2015, South African Nicola. The Library at Willesden One of the best-loved comedians artist William Kentridge now Green 7pm-12am. in the world, Jimmy Carr will focuses his extraordinary visual perform his new show ‘Terribly imagination on Alban Berg’s SUNDAY 2 Funny’ at the newly opened other operatic masterpiece. Troubadour Wembley Park The Lexi Cinema, 194b FEBRUARY Theatre. Troubadour, Wembley Chamberlayne Road, Kensal MET OPERA: PORGY AND BESS Park Theatre, 1 Fulton Road, Rise, London NW10 3JU. One of America’s favorite operas London, HA9 8TS. 7.30pm. £30. 2pm. £30. returns to the Met for the first time in nearly 30 years. The Lexi Met Opera: Porgy and Bess

42 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 ARTS & CULTURE RISE - Brent 2020’s spectacular opener the community feel that it’s their year. The message is to give it a go and take part. What has it been like to work with a community cast? Every session I meet someone new and every conversation I have with them inform all these different elements in our show. We’re reacting to these community conversations to help grow and build the script. What feeling are you hoping that audiences will take away from watching RISE? Empathy and empowerment. One thing I’ve learnt about the borough is that people have always stood up for what they believe in. I want people to connect with others and see the similarities and embrace the differences. There’s a really important message that culture is essential and vital within society. RISE is on the 18th January 2020. For more information on RISE, please visit brent2020.co.uk. Hundreds of dancers will take over Olympic Way

TUESDAY 18 SUNDAY 1 MARCH FEBRUARY MET OPERA: AGRIPPINA TO MARCH Handel’s tale of intrigue and impropriety in ancient IDOLS TO ICONS: AN ART Rome receives its first Met EXPLORATION THROUGH THE performances, with star mezzo- LOVE OF CINEMA soprano Joyce DiDonato as This group show features work the controlling, power-hungry from artists George Katralis, Agrippina and Harry Bicket Adam Stothard, Ben Turner, conducting. The Lexi Cinema. Bernie Jezowski, Freya Betts, 194b Chamberlayne Road James Hobson, Mat Roff, Sam Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. Mayle and Si Heard. The Lexi 2pm. £30. Cinema 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3JU. 11am-6.30pm. Carol THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY THURSDAY 6 THURSDAY 13 BHS: MALCOLM X FEBRUARY FEBRUARY TO An enlightening look at Malcolm’s early life and at the CAROL SATURDAY 21 legacy of his powerful work “Taps into universal anxieties MARCH in the historic struggles of about love and relationships freedom, justice and equality without ever letting go of the PASS OVER for Black people in America. sense of imprisonment that came A lamppost. Night. Two friends The Lexi Cinema, 194b with being gay in the 1950s.” are passing time. Stuck. Waiting Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Atlantic. The Lexi Cinema, 194b for change. Kiln Theatre, 269 Rise, London NW10 3JU. BHS: Malcom X Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, Kilburn High Road, London, UK. 6.30pm. £10.50. London, NW10 3JU. 3pm. 7.30pm. £15.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 43 ARTS & CULTURE

What’s On >> Your guide to what’s on in Brent during Winter 2019

ArtASC StudiosVenice House243 www.citizensadvicebrent.org.uk READING GROUP AT KILBURN CHILDREN’S Ealing Road, Alperton, London HA0 [email protected] LIBRARY BOOKSTART STORY AND 1RQ, UK. Thursdays, Fridays and CROCHET AND KNITTING CLUB AT Fancy a book tip? Join us for our reading Saturdays, December 2019 - February KILBURN LIBRARY group at Kilburn library. 42 Salusbury RHYME TIME FOR 18 MONTHS+ 2020. 4-7pm. Join us for story and rhyme time on Feeling creative? Join us for our Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN. Thursdays, Fridays at the Library at Willesden INCREDIBLES PARENT AND Crochet and Knitting Club at Kilburn December 2019. 6.45-7.45pm. Green. Other locations. 95 High TODDLER GROUP library. 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn SCRABBLE AT WEMBLEY LIBRARY Road, Willesden NW10 2SF. Fridays, Parent and Toddler group for babies NW6 6NN. Tuesdays, December 2019 - Fancy a game of Scrabble? Join us at December 2019. 9.30-10.15am (term and toddlers with special needs. St. February 2020. 10.30am-12.30pm. Wembley Library every month for a time only). Marks Church hall, corner of All Souls FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENING fun game! Other locations..Brent Civic Avenue and Bathurst Gardens. Friday An open evening where you can find Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 HOMEWORK CLUB AT THE LIBRARY 20 December 2019. 9.15-11.30am. AT WILLESDEN GREEN out more about fostering for Brent. 0FJ. Wednesday 18 December 2019. [email protected] Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, 1.30-4pm. Need some help with homework? Join 07974 923348. us at the Library at Willesden Green, Wembley, 1st floor, Training Centre, TAMIL READING GROUP 95 High Road, Willesden NW10 2SF. room 1T002. First Thursday of the Get reading and join our Tamil Reading Thursdays, December 2019. 3.30- COMMUNITY month. 6-8pm. www.brent.gov.uk/ Group at Ealing Road library.Coronet 5.30pm (term time only). BRIDGE CLUB AT KILBURN LIBRARY fostering, [email protected] Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 SALOME WHITE DANCE COMPANY Join us for Bridge Club at Kilburn HARLESDEN COMMUNITY HUB AT 4BA. Saturday 28 December 2019. Dance classes for boys and girls library every Wednesday! 42 Salusbury HARLESDEN LIBRARY PLUS 1-4.30pm. ages 7 to 18. Willesden Green Library. Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN. Wednesdays, Visit us for the Harlesden Community UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, December 2019. 2-4pm. Hubs at Harlesden Library Plus.Craven PAINTING FOR THE OVER 50S December 2019 - February 2020. CITIZENS ADVICE BRENT Park Road, Harlesden NW10 8SE. Get creative and join our University of Wednesdays and Thursdays, December 4.30-6.30pm. lights-camera-dance. Help to Claim: The Universal Credit the Third Age: Painting for the Over 50s ueniweb.com/[email protected] Support Service from Citizens Advice 2019 - February 2020. 10am-5pm. at Ealing Road library. Coronet Parade, UNIFORMED YOUTH ACTIVITIES Brent.Brent Civic Centre mezzanine KNITTING CLUB AT Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4BA. Sea Cadetting for youngsters from floor. Thursdays, December 2019 - WEMBLEY LIBRARY Tuesdays, December 2019 - February age 7. Uniformed youth group based February 2020. 9am-4pm. Feeling creative? Join us for our 2020. 10.30am-12.30pm. on the traditions of the Royal Navy. www.citizensadvicebrent.org.uk Crochet and Knitting Club at Wembley ZUMBA GOLD AT HARLESDEN T.S. Broadsword, Cool Oak Lane, NW9 [email protected] library. Brent Civic Centre, Engineers LIBRARY PLUS 7ND. Mondays, Thursday 19 and CITIZENS ADVICE BRENT Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. Thursdays, Let’s dance! Join us for Zumba Gold Friday 20 December 2019. 12am. - INFO AND ADVICE SERVICE September - November 2019. at Harlesden Library Plus. Other [email protected]. Charity that offers free confidential 10.30am-1pm. locations. Craven Park Road, Harlesden, ART CLUBS AND PRIVATE LESSONS advice to whoever you are, whatever PLACE OF WELCOME NW10 8SE. Fridays, December 2019 - FOR KIDS AND ADULTS the problem. Brent Civic Centre, The Place of Welcome at Brent Hub February 2020. 11.45am-12.45pm. Art clubs and private lessons for kids Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. provides the community with a PROUD COFFEE LGBT OLDER PEOPLE and adults by a certified art teacher Mondays, December - February 2019. place to interact with one another, COFFEE AFTERNOON enjoy games and have engaging and contemporary artist. Manus 9am-4pm. Proud Coffee is a free afternoon for conversations. Brent Hub Community older LGBT people in Brent. Elders Enterprise Centre, 6 Hillside, Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, London. Wednesdays, December London. Wednesdays, December 2019 2019 - February 2020. 10am-12pm. - February 2020. 2.30-4pm. [email protected] QUIZ AND GAMES AFTERNOON RAD INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE EVENT FOR DEAF PEOPLE FOR OLDER PEOPLE A Quiz & Games Afternoon for older LIVING IN BRENT people in Brent.Elders Voice, 181 Welcome to the Royal Association Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, London. for Deaf people (RAD) Information, Wednesdays, December 2019 - Advice and Guidance (IAG) service. February 2020. 2-4pm. Desk 30 Customer Services, Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley SONGS UNEARTHED: MUSIC FROM HA9 0FJ on Tuesdays. Brent CAB, WILLESDEN JEWISH CEMETERY 270 - 272 High Road, London NW10 Songs Unearthed: Music from 2EY on Thursdays. Tuesdays and Willesden Jewish Cemetery. The Thursdays, December 2019. Library at Willesden Green, High Road, 10am-4pm. London NW10 2SF. Wednesday 22 January 2020. 7pm-12am.

44 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 ARTS & CULTURE

If you would like your event included in these >> Your guide to what’s on in Brent during Winter 2019 pages, submit the details at www.brent.gov.uk/events

COMMUNITY YOGA CLASS MEMORY CAFE HEALTH AND Yoga classes at Preston Community A memory cafe in Kingsbury for people SELF- FITNESS Library. All abilities welcome!. living with memory loss, and their DEVELOPMENT Preston Community Library, Carlton carers and supporters. Holy Innocents BOOTCAMP AT QUEENS PARK Avenue East, Wembley HA9 8PL. Church, Kingsbury Road (Opposite IT FOR BEGINNERS AT EALING Get fit for free with OurParks. Other Wednesdays and Sundays, December Kingsbury Mandir). Fridays, December ROAD LIBRARY locations. Queen’s Park Kilburn, 2019 - February 2020. 7.30-9pm. 2019. 2-3.30pm. Learn the basics and join us for our IT London, NW6 6SG. Thursdays, brentlibraries.wordpress.com/ www.holyinnocentskingsbury.org.uk for Beginners sessions. Other locations. December 2019 - February 2020. [email protected]. [email protected] Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley 10-11am. DEMENTIA CAFE AT CITY PILATES IN BARHAM PARK HA0 4BA. Mondays, December 2019. BRENT DOLPHINS SWIMMING CLUB MISSION HUB Get fit for free with OurParks..Barham 2-3.30pm. Brent Dolphins Swimming Club aims Dementia Cafe at City Mission Hub is Park. Wednesdays, December 2019 - BRENT START ADULT EDUCATION to promote the teaching and coaching held weekly on a Monday, providing February 2020. 6.30-7.30pm. COURSES of all aspects of swimming, including space for those with memory loss and FLY GIRLS WELLNESS: WALK AND If you are looking for work, wanting teacher training and lifesaving for dementia and their carers to socialise, RUN COMMUNITY to progress in your career or learn those aged 5 and over. Vale Farm and get involved in activities and receive new skills, we have a wide range Fly Girls Wellness walk or run group Willesden Sports Centres. Every day support. Pentecostal City Mission of courses for you. 1 Morland meet 9am every Sunday morning at except Saturdays, December 2019 - Church, 2 Scrubs Lane, London. GardensStonebridge NW10 8DY. Wembley Stadium to start the week February 2020. 7-10pm. Mondays, December 2019 - February Mondays, December 2019 - February being active. Wembley Stadium. www.brentdolphins.org.uk 2020. 10.30am-3.30pm. 2020. Various times to 12am. Sundays, December 2019 - February [email protected] [email protected]. 2020. 9-10am.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Are you a Mum, Dad, Grandparent or carer? Are you looking to gain experience for work or study? Would you like to develop your existing skills to help a family who needs support?

We need people with experience to volunteer. Can you give 3-4 hours a week to help make a difference to the lives of parents and young children? Please contact your nearest Home-Start to talk to our friendly staff: Home-Start Camden and Islington: 020 7424 1603 info@[email protected] www.homestartcamdenandislington.org.uk Home-Start Brent: 020 371 0674 CERTIFICATES AWARDED AND EXPENSES PAID

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 45 HAPPY & HEALTHY

Close knit community While we all know what we need to do to take care of our physical health taking care of our mental health can be a bit trickier, writes Sarah Whyte

ne in four adults will be affected by a mental health Mary Boumaraf, from Kensal Rise, crocheted when she was at issue at some stage in their life, so it is important school but didn’t know how to knit before attending the club. Mary that you find hobbies or activities you enjoy to said: “I’ve been coming here for seven years and I really enjoy it. I encourage positive mental health and wellbeing. often joke that it is like a therapy session as all we do is laugh. Taking part in activities can help you to connect with “I’m learning how to knit at the moment and I’m currently working new people and keep your mind active as you learn on a pair of socks. Last year, I managed to knit my dad a jumper.” Osomething new or improve a skill you already have. There are knitting and crochet clubs at three libraries around the Linda Charles, from South Kilburn, has been going to the borough. If you are interested in joining a club, meeting new people knitting and crochet club at Kilburn Library for around seven and learning a new skill search “knitting” on the Brent Council website. years now. Linda first started attending because she wanted something to keep her busy, but after a near fatal heart attack Kingsbury Library knitting club in 2017, attending the weekly club became even more Thursdays, 10.30am-12 noon important to her. “After my heart attack, I was recovering slowly,” said Linda. “My Wembley Library knitting club nerves in my hands weren’t as good as they used to be and I was Thursdays, 10.30am-1pm told to start physiotherapy. I wondered if using my hands to knit and crochet would help improve my movement and it did. Kilburn Library knitting club “Since coming back to the knitting club, I’ve made new friends, Tuesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm I’ve gone to knitting shows, displayed my work and donated bits to charity. It’s been fantastic. Like me, some people come here when they are recovering from illness. For others, it’s just a way to spend time with others while making new things.” As an experienced knitter and crocheter, Linda has helped people to make new items and understand patterns. Linda added: “The club has a pretty wide age range and we can help people who have no experience.”

46 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 KILN THEATRE IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED, PROUDLY LOCAL THEATRE IN THE HEART OF KILBURN

“We are so proud to be part of Brent London Borough of Culture 2020. We recently celebrated our first anniversary as the new, improved version of ourselves following a major capital project. In the re-opening season I wanted to present stories we don’t usually hear and bring different voices to the London stage. In our beautiful, brand-new auditorium we have produced seven world premieres, one UK premiere and a major musical revival. The stage demands immediacy and emotional relevance and, by showing the world through different lenses, I know we can uncover and share universal truths.” Indhu Rubasingham, Kiln Theatre Artistic Director COMING UP

10 DEC – 25 JAN 13 FEB – 21 MAR

SNOWFLAKE PASS OVER by Mike Bartlett by Antoinette Nwandu THE GLEE CLUB by Richard Cameron

by Hannah Khalil

22 APR – 23 MAY 4 – 27 JUNE

KilnTheatre.com | @KilnTheatre

Registed Charity No. 276892 269 Kilburn High Road | Kilburn | Brondesbury

RISE SUORTE B OUTOOR SECTCLE TELLIG THE STOR OF BRET

OLIC EBLE R BRETCOU

1281_BRENT_Rise_Magazine_AW.indd 1 27/11/2019 16:43