Todadiversity news AUTUMN EDITION 2013 £2.00

World Barbados Mental and friends Health association Day Reading

Rising London Sun Arts school Centre and the black child Voice 4 Change

Frank Bruno MBE on mental health Todadiversity news Autumn Edition 2013 - Issue: 5

Publisher: Keith Seville Contents Associate Editor: Shirley Anstis

Features Editor: Mehrunissa Khan

Graphic Designer: Jovana Perzic

Design Consultant: Raj KC

Contributors: Ayshea Newsam Cecily Mwaniki

Marketing Assistant: O’shane Clarke

Admin Assistant: Shanice Medford 6 Voice 4 Change 32 The 4 Corners Of Truth Photographers: Making civil society work for everyone It’s time to fight back Dr Merle Collins © Mervyn Weir 7 West Indian Women’s Circle 36 Rising Sun Arts Centre Illustrator: Improving the lives of BME elders A place for classes, entertainment Mark Chandler and art... Today Magazine 8 Mary Seacole Abbey House Heroine of the Crimean War 38 Aqua Livi Arlington Business Park Reggae music pioneer Reading 10 Mencap Berkshire The voice of learning disability 40 2inspire Network RG7 4SA Hazel Chawapiwa promoting 13 Vox Pop entrepreneurship Tel: +44 (0) 870 414 5252 Youth on mental health... Fax: +44 (0) 870 414 5353 [email protected] 41 Mi-MEDIA www.todaymag.co.uk 14 Barbados And Friends Powering your creative vision Association Today Magazine is a wholly owned BAFA Reading 42 London School and subsidiary of Today Publishing the Black Child Limited. Views expressed in Today Magazine are those of their 16 Karen Roach Founder Diane Abbott MP respective authors and do not An inspirational story necessarily reflect those of Today 44 Travel Publishing Limited. The publishers 18 Dr Merle Collins Welcome Kenya - Karibu Kenya cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can Interview at Senate House they accept responsibility for the in London 48 World Mental Health Day standing of advertisers or editorial 10th October 2013 contributions. All prices and credits 20 Hári Sewell are accurate at time of going to press but are subject to change. Expert on BME mental health 50 Family Fitness Fun Reproduction in whole or in part Bethel United say without written permission is strictly 24 Frank Bruno anyone can do it! prohibited. Today Publishing MBE Limited cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited material. Story of a 52 Puzzles champion... Sudoku and © Copyright 2013 Today Publishing Crossword Limited. All Rights Reserved. 26 Fashion with Printed by: Premier Print Group House of Loulee 53 Horoscope Bow, London, 020 7987 0604 Children’s wear Check out your star sign

Today Magazine 3 Our previous edition covered various social events and community organisations as pictured below. Welcome to

Todadiversity news

Shirley Anstis, associate editor

Welcome to our Autumn edition of Today Magazine. Front cover - Summer 2013 October is a very busy month with World Mental Health Day and Black History Month being celebrated.

Our cover star, former British and World Boxing Champion Frank Bruno MBE captures both of these themes. As a boxer Frank Bruno has experienced many highs in his career. However his retirement has been followed by many lows, particularly in 2003 when he was taken away by police under the Mental Health Act (1983). Frank was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder and we can read his interview with mental health expert Hàri Sewell. It is a reminder that we all need to look after our mental health.

World Mental Health Day is a reminder to do so by leading a balanced life, regardless of our age. All the advice is about healthy living to include diet, exercise, relaxation, maintaining good relationships and being part of a supportive network. It is good to see that the young people in our Vox Pop are already looking after their mental health. We spend time with the internationally celebrated author Merle Collins as she releases her first biography on the first female governor general in the Commonwealth. Diane Abbott MP celebrates the heights achieved by several Black students and we were pleased to witness their poise and optimism as they received their awards. We hear so much of black underachievement it is great to focus on the successes to get a more balanced view. Front cover - Spring 2013 We also celebrate achievement by interviewing House of Loulee designer Lucy Lee who has created a fantastic children’s clothing range from very humble beginnings. Follow Us: Tony Charles of Mi-MEDIA shares his route to success and his desire to do this for others. Both are examples of hard work and dedication. M.E. sufferer and marathon runner Karen Roach is an example of how we can give our best and care for others, even if we have been terribly unwell. She is making a difference to the lives of many. http://www.facebook.com/todaymag If you are dreaming of some winter sun then see our travel feature on Kenya.

Enjoy! http://www.twitter.com/Today_Magazine Shirley Anstis MA, B.Sc, MBACP

Today Magazine 5 West Indian Women’s Circle Community Community

The West Indian Women’s Circle is a Registered Charity working to improve the quality of life of Elders. They have a particular interest in the needs of Caribbean Elders living in our local community area of Reading.

The West Indian Women’s Circle Over the years the W.I.W.C. has W.I.W.C. host a range of different (W.I.W.C.) was founded in 1979 by a supported hundreds of individuals with events throughout the year: group of nurses who felt that the Black issues from health, housing, welfare, Feel Good Friday - Health Awareness and Minority Ethnic Groups (BME) arranging social and community events events e.g. raising awareness of Cancer, were missing out on a whole range and linking the community together Diabetes, Stroke, Sickle Cell etc. At these of social welfare services. The BME with news, information, support, events they provide relevant informative Elders appeared to be overlooked by encouragement and opportunity. literature, health professionals advise the statutory institutions although they W.I.W.C. has benefited from the on how to check for symptoms etc were amongst the poorest and the most involvement of Healthcare Professionals, and Health trainers help change your disadvantaged group of people in the an ex-Mayor, Fundraisers, Homemakers, lifestyle. There are also activities such community. This self help organisation Office Managers, Community Workers, as Creative Craft workshops where was born out of the needs of the BME Drivers, Accountants, Musicians and you can design your own bag, mug Community in the Greater Reading Area many other backgrounds. or t-shirt, a Nail Bar for the ladies to and set itself the task of providing a enjoy, complimentary hand massages, service to this special group. MISSION STATEMENT dominoes for the men to play, a Shirley Anstis spoke to CEO Kunle Olulode about the organisation, The W.I.W.C. is commonly The West Indian Women’s Cupcake Bar, along with tea and coffee. it’s purpose and plans. With a background in business, history, politics, art, referred to as ‘The Circle’, a name Circle’s aim is to work with the elderly West Indian Women’s Circle that remembers how the organisation within the community to provide Asantewa House, Fobney Street local government and the voluntary sector he is well placed to lead Voice4Change. started. Meetings were held around a opportunities to enrich their life with Reading, Berkshire, RG1 6BZ circular table in the kitchen of one of support and information on their health Tel: 0118 959 0525 Voice4Change has been in ‘In-work poverty, ethnicity and educational experiences. Kunle shared the founding members; Elsa Fenton. and wellbeing. Email: [email protected] existence for three and a half years workplace cultures’ with the Joseph that in some inner city areas such as but the ideas and discussions behind Rowntree Foundation and Heriot- Newham, refugee children had helped it began some seven years ago. Watt University in Scotland. You can to turn around the fortunes of failing Voice4Change is passionate about download the report from their website schools – not something we hear in voluntary organisations and black – www.voice4change-england.co.uk the media. During our conversation I and minority ethnic participation. Its The organisation works in became aware of a government fund of motto is “making civil society work partnership with many organisations £250 million (plus EU matched funding for everyone.” Voice4Change gives and receives funding from a range of of the same amount) to promote BME voluntary organisations a voice sources. Partners include government local enterprise development and put in government discussions by sitting boards, local councils, community communities in control. Voice4Change on the Department of Community and enterprises, Operation Black Vote, the sees its role as “enhancing peoples’ Local Government Board, reporting to Runnymede Trust, Voluntary Arts UK ability to come together and play a role Dan Foster, Minister for Community and the National Council for Voluntary in their community.” Across the country and Local Government. It is also the Organisations. Their targets are a this government fund has seen groups voice that can inform government of combination of that from funders and take over local pubs, community centres the day-to-day challenges that these a result of their own strategic thinking and arts centres. They will be looking organisations face in delivering their and evaluation processes. In the long- closely at the Black Cultural Archives community aims. More than just being term they would like to develop an anti- project in Brixton South London, and a voice, the organisation offers training racist network, and have an influence hope to use it as an excellent example of and policy development to help grow on discussions around immigration community asset and ownership. the skills and impact of the many and race in the media. By working with Overall, Voice4Change is optimistic organisations in the sector. and researching newer communities about the future and the motivated Voice4Change has over 320 and younger generations of more young people they meet. By stabilising member organisations and is set up established communities they can see funding and expanding membership to respond to the legislative structure how the whole narrative around race they hope to have a continued impact of the English legal system although it needs to be revisited and re-considered. on “making civil society work for works collaboratively with institutions The various census data provides some everyone.” For more info: in other parts of the U.K. Recently they insight into changing communities as www.voice4change-england.co.uk participated in some research on well as their purchasing power and Shirley Anstis

6 Today Magazine Today Magazine 7 performers, her name was ‘shouted History History by a thousand voices’. In 1857 Mary published her Autobiography; an Jamaican Nurse outstandingly vivid piece of writing called ‘The Wonderful Adventures of Mrs Seacole in Many Lands’ which was prefaced by WH Russell: “I trust that England will not forget one who nursed her sick, who sought out her wounded to aid and succour them and who performed the last offices for some of Mary Seacole her illustrious dead”. England, of course, did forget Mary Seacole. She was awarded a Crimean Mary went to the battle zone as a medal, a bust was made of her by sutler (a person who follows the army Prince Victor of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, - Heroine of the Crimean War - and sells provisions to the troops). sculptor and nephew of Queen Victoria. The moment she arrived in Balaclava, The last 25 years of her life were spent she immediately tended the sick and in obscurity. Mary Seacole died on 14th Mary Seacole was a nurse and a carer who served in the Crimean war in the 1850’s. wounded soldiers. Mary opened a May 1881. British Hotel in the summer of 1855, Her adventures took her far from home, the island of Jamaica in the Caribbean. near the besieged city of Sevastopol. She met members of the British Royal Family and was cheered by thousands of people in London. Soon the entire British army knew of Photos: Illustrations of Mary Seacole and cover of her Autobiography ‘Mother Seacole’. The soldiers became her sons and she their mother. Mary Seacole’s reputation her life to bring comfort to the wounded Mary was widely praised for her Some of the army doctors - despite after the Crimean War (1853-1856) and dying soldiers; and became the work in treating cholera and returned her saving them a lot of work - regarded rivalled Florence Nightingale’s. first Black woman to make her mark to Jamaica in 1853, where there was her as a ‘quack’, others were less Unlike Nightingale, Seacole also had on British public life. While Florence a yellow fever epidemic. The medical bigoted. The Assistant Surgeon of the challenge to have her skills put Nightingale has gone down in history as authorities came to her to provide the 90th Light Infantry watched with to proper use in spite of her being a legend, Mary Seacole was relegated nurses to care for sick soldiers. Mary admiration, how she would administer Black. A born healer and a woman of to obscurity until recently. returned to London where she heard to the soldiers, giving them tea and driving energy, she overcame official Mary Seacole was born in Kingston, about the Crimean War and how the food and words of comfort, whilst being indifference and prejudice. Seacole Jamaica in 1805. Her father was a nursing system there had collapsed. She numb and cold herself. She was often on got herself out to the war by her own Scottish soldier, and her mother a made applications to the War Office, the front line and frequently under fire. efforts and at her own expense; risked practitioner of traditional Jamaican the Army Medical Department, and the It was W.H. Russell - the first medicine, who had a Secretary of War, to be allowed to go modern war correspondent - who made boarding house where to the Crimea and tend to the sick and Mary Seacole famous. He described her she cared for invalid wounded. She pointed out her extensive as ‘a warm and successful physician, soldiers and their experience, excellent references and who doctors and cures all manner of wives. Mary learned that she knew many of the soldiers and men with extraordinary success. She about medicine from regiments, having nursed them while is always in attendance near the battle her mother, soon they were stationed in Jamaica. field to aid the wounded, and has gaining her own Mary Seacole was turned away by earned many a poor fellow’s blessings’. reputation as a ‘skilful everybody including one of Florence Mary Seacole was the first woman nurse and doctress’. Nightingale’s assistants. Was it possible, to enter Sevastopol when it fell. Mary travelled she asked herself, “that American However, the end of the war left widely, she had two prejudices against colour had taken Seacole & Day with expensive and trips to Britain. In 1851 root here? Did these ladies shrink from unsaleable stores on their hands. They she joined her brother, accepting my aid because my blood became bankrupt and Mary returned to Edward, in Panama flowed beneath a somewhat duskier skin England as a financially ruined woman. where she opened a than theirs?” In her disappointment, The Times Newspaper questioned how hotel. Soon, Seacole Mary cried in the street. anyone could forget the amazing things saved her first cholera A distant relative called Day, was that Mary had done and praised only patient and gained going to Balaclava on business, and Florence Nightingale? extensive knowledge they agreed to launch a firm called Lord Rokeby and Lord Paget, both of the pathology of this Seacole & Day, which would be a Crimean commanders organised a disease - which she general store and hotel near the British benefit festival at the Royal Surrey herself contracted and camp in the Crimea. At the age of 50, Gardens, Kennington, to raise money recovered from. with her large stock of medicines, for Mary. There were over 1,000

8 Today Magazine Today Magazine 9 Community Community

Learning disability and mental We work in partnership with illness are two very different things, people with a learning disability, and but with World Mental Health Day all our services support people to live being celebrated on 10 October, life as they choose. Mencap hopes that the day will help Our vision is a world where the public understand that people with people with a learning disability a learning disability experience mental are valued equally, listened to and health problems too. included. We want everyone to have In fact, people with a learning the opportunity to achieve the things Find out more disability are more likely to develop they want out of life. Visit www.mencap.org.uk or call mental health problems compared to Mencap Direct on 0808 808 111 the general population. 25% of the What is a learning disability? (Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm) for general population will experience a A learning disability is a reduced advice and information about learning mental health problem in their lifetime, intellectual ability and difficulty with disability and finding the right support yet this jumps to 40% if you have a everyday activities – for example and Mencap services in your area: learning disability. What’s more, 36% of household tasks, socialising or http://www.mencap.org.uk/local-groups young people with a learning disability managing money – which affects including Reading, Slough, have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder someone for their whole life. Windsor and Wokingham. compared with 8% of children without People with a learning disability Email: [email protected] a learning disability. tend to take longer to learn and may Ayshea Newsam There are 1.5 million people with need support to develop new skills, a learning disability in the UK. Mencap understand complex information and works to support people with a learning interact with other people. disability and their families and carers The level of support someone by fighting to change laws and improve needs depends on individual factors, services and access to health, education, including the severity of their employment and leisure facilities. learning disability.

10 Today Magazine Today Magazine 11 Vox Pop Youth on mental health... Berkshire

1. How do you look after your mental health? 2. How do you feel that society treats people who have a mental health condition? Black Business

Agata; Age: 25 Rukudzo; Age: 16 1. I try to relax and keep healthy in 1. I always try and keep focused, plan my mind, body and soul. Contact with life and talk through my problems with friends and family is important. my older family members. Networking to 2. People are not treated ignorantly, 2. There is a lot of support out there. they are welcomed and assisted People are encouraged to integrate and within society. be open about their conditions. encourage, motivate and inspire...

Please join us Charlie; Age: 16 Husaan; Age: 16 1. I exercise regularly or go out and 1. I keep myself fit and eat healthy. for dinner launch socialise with friends who I can talk to I manage issues by thinking things about my problems. through and get them done as required. event on 2. There are free counselling services if 2. Awareness in social media is you are a student. There is a good amount increasing and free counselling notices 7th November of awareness and support by different in colleges, the NHS and GP surgeries mental health organisations. are good support. in Reading!

For more information and to register, email: Aaron; Age: 17 Molly; Age: 16 1. I keep myself busy and keep to a 1. I exercise regularly, eat healthily - schedule. I walk or listen to music and making sure I have good vitamins and [email protected] talk with someone I trust in my family. proteins in my diet. I think keeping a 2. I feel that TV i.e. comedy shows don’t healthy lifestyle is important. take mental health as seriously as they 2. The government needs to do more for should do. People make jokes about it mental health awareness, professional We look forward when it should be a serious topic. support and provision of care centres. to seeing you! www.3bs.org.uk Barbados and Friends Community Community Association (BAFA)

Over 20 years ago, the committee History of Barbados Independence in the U.K., referred to in the Caribbean decided to found Barbados and Friends The British Nationality Act 1948, at the time as “the Mother Country.” Association (Reading), The association recognised and gave preferential In the 60’s Reading was growing as developed into a major interest in the treatment to people who were “citizens an industrial town and work prospects lives of our members, now spanning 1st of the Commonwealth countries”. were positive. Many Bajan men and 2nd 3rd and now even 4th generations. Barbados was part of the British women started careers with production The association was founded in 1993 Commonwealth. In the late 40’s and companies, transportation or in the with Executive members - Chairperson, 50’s after World War II, Britain was nursing profession. Young Bajans Treasurer and Secretary. The group looking to attract dedicated labourers to appreciated their move to Reading as meets regularly throughout the year the UK. In response, there was a great they were able to create a good work- and also hold annual general mass immigration from the Caribbean life balance, alongside fellow Bajans meetings (AGM). to Britain by a keen Bajan workforce to they knew living nearby. come to England, find work and have a Recent events What is Reading’s connection with its prosperous career. Half Marathon - In March 2011 and Broad Street Mall Twinning Event twin town Speightstown in Barbados? In 1966 the British Government 2012 - The association braved the spring Reading has the largest Barbadian gave Barbados its independence and time cold temperatures and ran the half Broad Street Mall population outside the Caribbean many Barbadians decided to leave the marathon across West Reading finishing In June the association hosted a day island. The (late) former Prime Minister island in the 1960s to find their fortunes at Madjeski stadium. of Barbados culture, with a street dance of Barbados, David Thompson, came to performance. Reading’s Mayor Marian Reading in October 2009 to promote Livingston attended and was presented the island as a holiday destination. with a gift from Hugh Arthur, Barbados He described Reading as “A little part High Commissioner on behalf of The of Barbados.” Barbados and Friends Association, Reading was formally twinned with Reading. (Photo on the right) Speightstown, Barbados at a council The organisation is always hosting meeting on Tuesday 21 January 2003. community events including cricket Mayor of Reading and the His Excellency, The High Commissioner tournaments and Black History Month Barbados High Commissioner for Barbados, Mr Peter Simmons events. Last years event was a history and the Deputy High Commissioner, presentation on Walter Tull - Black Mr Herbert Yearwood attended the footballer and member of the army. Barbados community in Reading and Next events ceremony. The Barbados and Friends the wider UK associations ensure they 47th Independence BAFA Event on Association (Reading) in conjunction Annual events - Independence day mark the day each year in November Saturday 16th November 2013 Dinner with other Berkshire bodies celebrated All of the Caribbean take pride with celebratory events including music, and Dance at the Hilton Hotel the 10th Anniversary of the twinning in their independence dates - The history, culture and entertainment. This special event is popular with the during 2013. BAFA Event on Thames Promenade Barbados community. The schedule includes a 3-course meal, music performances by top Barbados acts and DJ‘s, comedy, raffle and prizes. Thames Promenade In July 2013, the BAFA Association If you would like to know more hosted a day celebrating its nation’s about the organisation: - culture and culinary delights, a dance performance and foods from Barbados Web: http://www.bafa-reading.org.uk such as Flying Fish. Music was managed by Joys of Life entertainment. Postal address: There were several different local Barbados and Friends Association organisations which attended the day (Reading) and provided information and support PO Box 17, Level 1 (Communications) for people - e.g. Adoption and Reading RG1 7AE Reading Town Centre Twinning Event BAFA at Family Fun Day Event on the Thames Promenade Fostering Advice Team of Reading E-mail: [email protected] Borough Council. Ayshea Newsam

14 Today Magazine Today Magazine 15 Features Features Karen Roach Karen is a community focused individual who is project driven and passionate and what to do next. In realising that her passion about reaching out to the community bringing them hope through actions. also lies in cross cultural mission and that she has Karen is in her mid forties and has others and during her recovery from Karen is a community focused a heart for Africa, Karen lived in Colnbrook, Berkshire for over 15 M.E. she set up an M.E. support group individual who is project driven and has recently secured an years. She previously worked as a Client in Slough. The aim is to raise awareness passionate about reaching out to the opportunity to embark Account Executive for Pricewaterhouse and provide support for those suffering community, bringing them hope through on a 1-year mission trip Coopers until redundancy in 2009. Karen with M.E. She has also partnered with her actions. She is a trained counsellor to South Africa. She will contracted chronic fatigue syndrome (a her local Debenhams in raising funds for having graduated from the London be a pastoral assistant, mild form of M.E.) in 2008 where she the charity and gained the support of School of Theology with a diploma in pioneering a community was confined to her bed for 4 months. the local Member of Parliament, Fiona Counselling and a Bachelors degree space – café church, as Amazingly, with the help of her doctor McTaggart (Pictured below). in Christian Life and Ministry. She has well as getting involved in and by consulting a specialist, she was community projects. These From left to right: Annette Rauf, Fiona able to beat M.E. and went on to run 2 will include crises pregnancy McTaggart, Erica Kibble, Karen Roach London marathons 2009/2010! You can counselling, assisting in a and Dinicia Richardson see the results by logging on to pre-school and an academy www.justgiving.com/karenroachlfm09 in a nearby township and and www.justgiving.com/ helping young people by KarenRoachVLM2010. teaching them life skills Karen has also participated in through sports ministry. many other half marathons and 10k Karen is looking forward runs for various charities. The list to using her professional includes: Action for M.E - the leading and pastoral skills for the UK charity for people with Myalgic benefit of people from all Encephalomyelitis (M.E.) and their backgrounds and socio- carers, South Bucks. and East Berkshire economic groups. Women’s Aid, Cancer Research, WPF As this is a volunteer Counselling and Anthony Nolan, raising role, Karen is expected to over £5,000. Karen believes in using raise between £10,000 - her experiences, good or bad, to help £12,000 to cover her visa, flights, accommodation and other mission trips while in South Africa. If you would like to help Karen achieve actively participated in community this worthwhile mission work such as feeding the homeless. then you can do so either She has been innovative in setting by making a one-off a local counselling service at a local donation or pledging a church in Slough as well as pioneering monthly amount. a counselling service at the YMCA Karen is organising a in Chalvey. fundraising event on 6th Karen developed an injury while December 2013 - “South training for the 2011 marathon and African/Jamaican Fusion”. was diagnosed as having iliac tibia To donate to this dysfunction. On the advice of her G.P. worthwhile cause and for and after seeking the help of a booking your place, please podiatrist she was told to refrain from visit her website for details: running. She has not taken part in any missiontosa.yolasite.com races for 2 years. There will be great food Karen’s passion for community work from both countries, live still drives her and over the past two music, raffle and an auction. years she has been seeking direction Today Magazine

16 Today Magazine Today Magazine 17 as teaching Spanish in Grenada and By now, in her early thirties, Merle Caribbean literature at the University St.Lucia she also spent some time in returns to Grenada and becomes a civil of Maryland in the USA. Features Features Mexico, fine tuning her language skills servant in the Peoples Revolutionary Along the way Merle has written and getting an insight into Mexican Government of the late Maurice two books of short stories, namely Dr Merle Collins cultures. She would discover the Bishop. With her translation skills The Ladies are Upstairs and Rain Darling. ethnic tensions between Mexicans she found herself travelling with the As well as writing chapters in several descended from Spaniards and those then Prime Minister and being used anthologies she has also published three whose ancestors were Amerindians. as an interpreter at various high level poetry books. These are: Because the Shirley Anstis interviews Dr Merle Collins at Senate House in London Unfortunately she also found herself meetings. She enjoyed being the Dawn Breaks (1985), Rotten Pomerack stared at as an exotic rarity. Her government coordinator for research (1992) and Lady in a Boat (2003). I have respected and admired previous ones had been White and technology it took commitment from interest in Latin American cultures on Latin America and the Caribbean. Merle’s academic work and her Dr Merle Collins for some time and felt male. It is remarkable to think that both of us to get the interview done. continued, however, and she went She would leave Grenada in 1983 publications all influence her work in honoured to have the opportunity to the first female Governor was from I experienced her as a warm and on to study for a Masters in Latin – the year the revolution ended and the community in which she lives. interview her on her recent visit to the the small Caribbean island of Grenada engaging person very much comfortable American Studies in the USA. the Americans invaded. Whether in the Caribbean, U.K. or U.K. She is an academic, an author, given that the Commonwealth includes in her own skin. U.S.A., she has been part of theatrical a poet, a theatre director and a Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Merle Collins experienced her groups bringing performance, mime biographer. She was here to launch India. It was an incredible achievement primary and secondary education in and African music to the delight of her latest publication “The Governor’s for her and for women. Grenada before earning a degree in audiences. Through her own group, Story”. I met with Merle Collins at Senate English and Spanish at the University Carivision Community Theatre, she The book chronicles the life of House in London where she was of the West Indies, Jamaica. Her time stages several productions for an Dame Hilda Bynoe, the first Black scheduled to speak at a poetry event. in Jamaica gave her an insight into appreciative audience. female Governor in the Commonwealth; With busy schedules and unreliable social class in the Caribbean. As well This brings us up-to-date with her first biography, ‘The Governor’s Story’. Merle was fortunate enough to spend time with Dame Hilda Bynoe and the interaction between the two helped to inform how the book was written. Dame Bynoe was Governor General of Grenada from 1968-1974 in the government that preceded the one that Merle worked in. Despite being on different sides politically, and from Merle Collins with Associate Editor Shirley Anstis different generations, the women had great respect for each other and In recollecting those days Merle recognised that each desired to serve looks to her poems and writings of the her community. The biography is the time. She remembers the passionate story of a significant individual and her discussions and excitement at the start family, her relationship with the of the 1980’s when everyone felt they country she served and the greater were making a positive difference. story of Caribbean politics and However by 1983 there seemed a bit migration at the time. more control by the state, no doubt As my time was ending with Merle coming from a place of fear. Collins I wanted to know who she As well as being saddened by this admired and what her plans were for turn of events Merle found herself the future. She admired Louise Bennett with lots of questions. She moved to for educating people through theatre join family in England and this would and Toni Morrison for the clever way give her a new start in finding answers in which she uses history in her fiction. to many complex questions. She Others are also admired for their use was able to respond to some of the of language and politics. For the future global narratives of Caribbean culture she plans to continue to write novels, by creating characters who give an poems, short stories and maybe even insight into a more nuanced culture. another biography. Even with all these She published her first novel ‘Angel’ international postings and global in 1987. She was also completing her success she still calls Grenada home. Ph.D. in Government at the London School of Economics so the novel was The Governor’s Story by Merle Collins mostly written on long train journeys! is published by Peepal Tree Press and During 1990 to 1995 Merle taught at the available through their website University of North London. For some www.peepaltreepress.com Photo credits: Mervyn Weir time now she has been Professor of Shirley Anstis

18 Today Magazine Today Magazine 19 groups in a voluntary capacity before he got the formal roles. This is a testimony to the benefits of Features Features volunteering. He used the word “bliss” to describe the joy he got from this job – “living and breathing it”. However he now had concurrent roles as a business link person and an implementation manager. In talking to Hári me he was moved to remember the sacrifices he made at the time. His long working hours and commute made it difficult to sustain his relationship although he continued to have regular contact with his then young children. He Sewell believes that for him, “work is a passion and not a job”. His career would continue to go Shirley Anstis meets Hári Sewell, from strength to strength and he would be headhunted by Camden and Islington mental health social care trust – (2002) leading expert in BME mental health. to become their Director for Social Care. The very challenging interview involved Hári Sewell is a social worker, mental health He also became involved in Department of Health being questioned by their Board and expert, consultant, conference and event committees and a staff development program. their service users. After 7 years he was organiser. He has spent more than 20 years helping Once Berkshire became 6 unitary authorities Hári exhausted with what he experienced as to review and deliver mental health services in the successfully secured a senior post in Reading. a conflict between traditional psychiatry South East of England. During this time he became the lead on and his experience of mental health. When Hári and I met he was open about his mental health helping to create a mental health The role had expanded and changed professional and personal experiences and how strategy that would eventually lead to the creation over time to include responsibility for these have affected his choices. He certainly enjoys of Prospect Park Hospital, under the leadership of substance misuse, safeguarding, HR his work and his main challenge is to keep up with lead councillor Pete Ruheman. There were some training and other functions. his various ideas for making a difference. battles creating the hospital as no one wanted it in Along the way he was approached It all started when he qualified as a social their ward. by Malcolm Rae to write a chapter in worker many years ago. He knew which aspects What is clear from Hári’s story is his desire a mental health book by reputable of social work he didn’t want to work in but was to continue learning and growing in his role. He publishers Jessica Kingsley. Someone open to specialising in mental health. His first role later completed the IDEA program for aspiring dropped out and he was able to step as a senior social worker for mental health was leaders and managers in social services where in. Following publication, he presented with the African Caribbean community in Oxford, he met Jo Cleary, a mentor on the program. a chapter of the book at a conference appointed by service manager, Lynne Dewsberry. Jo ran the London region in the social services and this was so good that the publishers The Caribbean community in Oxford includes a inspectorate (SSI) at the Department of Health asked him to propose his own book. range of ethnicities from different islands and he (predecessor of CQC) and its role was to assess the Juggling the professional successes remained there for two years. performances of each social services department. with personal challenges lead to very His next move was developing services for Through her mentoring and encouragement Hári long days. By now Hári had remarried ethnic minority communities in Oxfordshire. applied for and became responsible for four social and committed to participating in his During this time he worked with the Chinese services departments in councils in West London home in London. This meant that he community amongst many others. One of his line where his job involved meeting with directors had to get up at 4.30 am to write before managers, Martin Smith, encouraged him to build of social services and their management teams, leaving for work at 8 am. He was sad to up his experience as a practitioner and his work in checking out performance data and holding them be so far away from his children who the community. With experience he was aware of accountable. As well as learning and growing Hári stayed in Reading and had a growing his growing confidence and knowledge. Over his is also open to the opportunities that come his commitment to being an active father 18 months in this post he learnt a lot about having way and is flexible in his career path. This job was regardless of what else was going on. high standards for the quality of delivery and the the culmination of everything he’d learnt so far Alternate weekends were taken up with quality of reporting. and he remained in it for 18 months. commuting to Reading to spend time Hári would then return to Berkshire just before During this time an opportunity came with them. He defines himself as a dad it separated into 6 unitary authorities. Having up in a London Regional Office for an NHS more than anything else. done so much work the ethnic minority groups Implementation manager for national service By writing his first book Hári got Hári wanted to have a more mainstream role, so framework for mental health – landmark policy in a new appreciation for the research as not be seen as a specialist. He would become a 1999. He took on this role alongside his SSI role. process, which he found a joyful and key person working on strategy in Berkshire Social Having developed networks and booklets prior to painful process. He now had many Services and this gave him the opportunity to get this he had begun to develop a national profile. Hári Sewell new influences on his thinking and it involved in various committees and initiatives. Consequently he got to sit on national project changed the way he spoke.

20 Today Magazine Today Magazine 21 Hári’s first book, “Working with and fitted round his writing ambitions. ethnicity, race and culture in mental This lasted until March 2011 before the health, a handbook for practitioners” change in Government meant that the Features Features has been well received in the sector. role and the unit would be abolished. About publishing his book, he says it Hári is now a full-time consultant and was a painful birthing process. Having developing his business skills for this put so much of his energy and passion latest chapter in his career. into the book he felt he couldn’t just He has had some challenging times put it out there but wanted to develop with the consultancy and remembers tools that worked with his book and the year to February 2013 as his most could help people to make a difference. difficult. There were peaks and troughs So now he would take a leap of faith to in demand for his services but the work part-time and offer consultancy period was also very sporadic so it has whilst he developed other ideas. been difficult to plan. He continues The first outcome was a national to get referrals and continues to conference on a shoestring budget. experience the benefits of networking. Hári prepared all the content, and did He is working on several bespoke all the organising and marketing. He pilot projects with MIND, the mental got a tiny bursary for service users and health charity. He is also in talks with cleverly got Frank Bruno to participate. various other organisations such as This was back in June 2009 when Frank RAW.org. The latter grew organically and Bruno had begun to speak out about his aims “to shift the debate from opposing mental health challenges. and arguing to presenting ideas as an Hári followed this by working with alternative to the prevailing model of Melba Wilson, National Director of working with race and mental health”. Delivering Race Equality Programs. This The organisation has no paid roles or was a consultancy for half the week structure so progress is slow as work is

Hári Sewell with Frank Bruno

done in personal time. There are journal his reflective moments when it dawned great skills that he can make a living on religious ministers who express articles, book chapters and conferences on him that all over the country people and share. themselves well. ahead too. He is hoping to make better are trying to make change through use of his experience of people with small pockets of activity. He comments How does he relax? How did he get on with Frank Bruno? faith (formerly a deacon in the Baptist that, “nowhere across the country is He wasn’t much of a raver (party-goer) Hári very much enjoyed meeting U.K. church) and mental health sufferers there a Chief Executive who can talk during his youth but nowadays he loves boxing champion Frank Bruno and with faith. about demonstrable improvements raving, hanging out and chatting with showing what could be done with a in outcomes” around BME mental his sons, aged 18 and 21. He exercises little belief. The video of their encounter So how does he keep going? health although everyone knows what everyday by alternating running with was done on a shoestring budget and Hári gets a sense of satisfaction from activities they do. He could see the need gym work. He sometimes plays the no profit was made but he thinks it was seeing the benefits of his work. All to have some way of implementing and saxophone, enjoys watching films and worth it to hear Frank speak of how his the small steps are leading in the right measuring so that progress is sustained. listening to music. He also loves taking family and the press responded to his direction. He feels he is a solutions holidays in Jamaica when he can. mental breakdown. They had a great person even if that is through critiquing What’s it like being a leader rapport. what is. He has developed the Locked in this field? Who are his role models? Hexagon Model and it was published He still does not see himself as a leader Hári struggles to find any one person Anything else? in a paper called Leading Race Equality or someone special, just does what that he sees as a role model but he As a side project Hári joins his sons to and Mental health and picked up by he does. Hári enjoys hanging out with takes bits from people such as Richard do promotions and run events under the Centre for Social Justice. In a 2011 his kids. He feels his skills come to and Branson. He commented that Richard the name Black Satin Promotions. publication they recommended that through him so he wears it lightly. Hári Branson asks a lot of his staff but gives it was adopted nationally. He has had seems very grounded and doesn’t see them a lot back too – the flexible For more information and to contact some conversations with them and himself so much as brilliant but as working, passion and commitment Hári Sewell, check out his website since then has developed a toolkit to “being granted a gift”. He feels blessed attracts him. He feels similarly driven. www.hsconsultancy.org.uk find solutions. This came out of one of to have had amazing parents and given He can also admire politicians and Shirley Anstis

22 Today Magazine Today Magazine 23 was in there, not for 28 days they was HS: What actually lead you to go in there for 2 months, 6 months, all boarding school Frank? Features Features year round. And some of the reasons Well I used to fight a lot, I don’t know FRANK BRUNO MBE they was in there because they wasn’t what it was but I was just one of those looking after themselves. I said to myself boys with the testosterone or whatever, when I come out of that place I do not I just used to fight with a lot of kids and want to go back in there because I class get myself into trouble, I was never a Frank Bruno MBE talks with Hári Sewell at National Mental that place as “cuckooness “ and people thief because I never had the bottle to may laugh at that but that’s exactly go and nick anything off anyone or rob what it was, it’s not like I didn’t like it anybody because I wouldn’t like anyone Health Development Unit Equalities Conference 2010 because I had to be sectioned there but to rob off me or my parents, sister or I just didn’t want to go there again so anyone so I wasn’t a thief but I was a Frank Bruno won 40 of his 45 fights; 38 as KOs. In 1995 Bruno achieved the pinnacle of I’m running like Forest Gump. I have to troublesome youngster that would have his career by becoming world heavyweight champion. After his retirement and following keep moving, and trying to look after a row with you but I wouldn’t do that myself, go to the gym and train like the now because them days it was fist but wounding experiences in his life, Bruno was forcibly admitted to a psychiatric hospital in police are chasing me and work harder now people bring out guns, taser and September 2003. The headlines in a tabloid newspaper promted public outrage and marked and pump more weights and swim, take sprays and all them different things, so my vitamin tablets, go to bed early and now I’m a pussy cat, I don’t deal with a watershed in British media reporting of mental health problems. sometimes like if I get lucky with a nice violence. young lady, have her round and a bit of An extract from the interview. and I feel very good however, I’m a but sometimes when you come out M.O.T to make me happy. HS: OK what kind of things used to get bit lonely. of places like that you have to keep under your skin? HS: Welcome Frank, fantastic to reassuring yourself, keep talking to “People treat me differently; FB: What when I was young? have you here. HS: Fantastic, so you sound on good yourself keep on pumping up yourself HS: Yes. FB: Thank you very much glad to form, compared to 2003 which we are and every time you take a step forward some people ignore you, cross FB: Sometimes when I was young you be here. going to talk about, when you were you need to check your step backwards the road, have a conversation would go somewhere and someone admitted to a psychiatric hospital, but and just look after yourself a little bit is looking at you or you’re looking at HS: Before we start, the first question compared to then how do you know more, because me going into a place in front of your face as if them, the ego thing it was such a stupid everyone wants to know is how are you are recovered now? and being sectioned, I mean you learn childish man thing, you grow out of you Frank? FB: Yes I have recovered, but sometimes a lot of things from different people. I because of your mental health them things but if you get a room full of FB: I’m very well thank you, very fit, well when you go to places like that, it will went there and it was educational for problems your ears are gone. men you always get the one poking out in spirit, good in mind and good in body always be in your mind and your life me to go there. I met some people that his chest a little bit more, like “who you Me? I can’t be bothered to get looking at” kind of thing and thinks he’s Hári Sewell with Frank Bruno at National Mental Health Development Unit Equalities Conference involved with people’s harder but it’s only a young man thing that you do grow out of, if you know chitter chatter.” what I mean.

HS: OK, before we get on to your HS: Going back to your family life, mental health and admission, we know you’re close to your mum, what was it you as Frank Bruno champion boxer, like growing up and having that kind of but you started from a normal family close relationship with your mum? so tell us about family life for you? FB: My mum is a serious cup of tea, she FB: Yes, my dad worked in a cake factory wanted me to be a doctor, or a preacher and my mum was a District Nurse and in a church because she used to always I didn’t live in a council flat they had a send me to church and I’d go to church house and I had a bedroom but when with her, but my dad was more laid my brother came over I was in the back. He let me do what I wanted to do dining room with a fold up bed but it because he always wanted a son and was good. Unfortunately I did not know he used to spoil me rotten but my mum I had bi-polar and I was getting myself was the serious one, even until today. into trouble and doing some I’ve got to have a lot of respect for my stuff and some crazy things so I got mum because she’s like a big woman sent to boarding school and it was and she could sit on me; if she sat on an OK boarding school it was a me she would do me some damage. But boarding school that ironed out the you only get one mum and one dad. creases in you, but I went down to Sussex and saw the country life. It was If you would like to hear the rest of the good and educational teaching about interview, please order your DVD copy discipline and looking after yourself and online at: www.harisewell.com. how to conduct yourself and I’m glad I went down there. © Hari Sewell Consultancy Ltd 2010

24 Today Magazine Today Magazine 25 Children’s Fashion with lucy lee Fashion Fashion ouse of Loulee

Today Magazine brings you Lucy Lee’s story about how to achieve your dreams...

How did you get started in my skills in fashion and design. I couldn’t production & marketing side of things. fashion design? face sending my children to all day I have a couple of different types of From a young age, I was always creative, childcare whilst I worked myself away in sewing machines. For communications drawing and good at making things, so an office. I wanted to be my own boss software I have my trusty PC tablet and I naturally gravitated towards fashion. so I started creating again and this time a smartphone. It is amazing how much My mum always told me to… ‘do what my driving influence was to design fun, work you can get done on the road you do best.’ I think we all go through comfortable and durable clothing for these days! I can’t do it all though, so the stage where we are unsure which the whole family. I am lucky enough to have some great career path to choose. As a late teen, friends and family supporting me. I was finding it difficult to make up my How many years have you mind what to do, but that might have been operating? What Business skills do you use? something to do with being a creative It’s been just under two years since Presentation skills are paramount for minded person. I was offered a place I started House of Loulee and it’s been House of Loulee. It speaks volumes, if at The London School of Fashion, an amazing journey so far. you don’t put the effort in to present unfortunately, I wasn’t able to afford an item which you’ve carefully created, the fees. I chose another university, How do you best use your resources to it results in lost sales opportunities. studied another course and left fashion be an efficient and effective company? After all, if you value your work then alone for a while. After my children At the moment it is a one woman show it deserves a dedicated sales pitch to were born I wanted to return to using (me) in relation to all the creating, engage the buyers.

Where does your design creativity come from? As you may have noticed, everything I create is made entirely or in part with African prints. I find these prints very inspiring and so rich in colour, that I wouldn’t want to use anything else. My design ideas come mainly from ‘play’ as in things we do for fun. The clothes have to be comfortable & durable just like the 100% cotton prints I use. My niece once told that me she won’t wear the traditional dresses grandma sends her as they are too old fashioned and frilly, even though she loves the fabrics and different colours! That was the light bulb moment when I got the idea to create a children’s clothing line all in African print.

26 Today Magazine Today Magazine 27 Do you feel there is adequate “Doing a zip slide, Fashion Fashion recognition for African and Caribbean you need all the luck fashion design in the UK? you can get. So I wore No! We’re seeing more and more my House of Loulee platforms being created by UK African & Honourable Hoodie Caribbean individuals which is brilliant and with perseverance there should for that and… be many more noticeable platforms in it was Lucky!” the next few years. As for now, there’s @Pkakooza - nothing in the mainstream that would Via Twitter enable designers like me to gain global attention to our brands. Although, What is making there is the odd television contest, but House of Loulee the creative directors don’t allow you babywear so to start with your own label! It is widely popular with known that they only want you to use customers? your creativity to design garments I started off with according to the show’s theme. baby wear, as I couldn’t see anyone Do you have a noticeable cultural else doing it, plus I base? Or is it unknown as you are just wanted to be mainly online? Yes! However, as it is online we are more accessible and can cater for those looking for it. That’s how I’ve been able to create the strong interest I’ve received so far. For example, ‘Open the Gate’ a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in bringing African arts events to everyone. Also, every last Saturday of the month there is an African Market in Old Spitalfields, East London. Exhibiting at their events has proven to be beneficial with returning customers and advertising opportunities bringing positive responses. If you are interested in African styles and clothing and you do an internet search by entering ‘African Markets/Events in your area, UK’, you’ll be amazed at the number of search results and places to try new foods, learn a bit about other cultures and the chance to visit cultural markets with vibrant and creative traders.

What type of post sales feedback do you get from your customers? I receive positive messages from happy customers and pictures of them or their children who are happy with their new style. My young customers send me the most inspiring and funny feedback. My two favourite customer feedback messages at the moment are:

“I am an African Prince and now I really feel like one with this stupendous outfit”

A young customer referring to his tailored waistcoat & tie.

28 Today Magazine Today Magazine 29 different and lots of people just over a year the House of Black History Month Festival on Friday Fashion

Fashion I networked with at events Loulee Facebook Page has October 25th 2013. Then at Open the kept on saying “it’s about received over 1600 ‘Likes’. As Gate’s African Market in Spitalfields, time someone made African for meetings, I don’t really London on Saturday October 26th 2013. print clothing for kids.” So, I get much time for the ‘sit got started and that’s where down’ ones. Therefore, What are your business aspirations? I see the most sales within my most contact regarding Oh! I have so many! I would like to start product areas. I believe it was exhibiting, wholesale hiring people in order to cope with the a good place to start. orders or custom orders, is increasing demand which House of conducted over the phone Loulee is receiving. I hope to increase Do you feel people are or via email. I find email House of Loulee’s online presence. still interested in major is especially valuable when My optimal goal is to open a boutique commercial labels? Or are dealing with customers in Camden in the near future. people becoming more located overseas. These developments will enable my individual in their style? label to grow & grow. Overall… it’s all More and more people are How does House of Loulee just so exciting!! beginning get involved in to embrace Black History To receive updates on forthcoming their own year round event locations and the latest individuality and within handmade goodies, you can and create Black History subscribe to the newsletter at: their own month itself? Website: www.houseofloulee.co.uk or styles. But The House E-mail: [email protected] not everybody is as of Loulee mobile You can join House of Loulee on the confident, so that is boutique is following social network sites where commercial labels will continuously Facebook.com/houseofloulee always control what the majority setting up shop at various Twitter.com/houseofloulee of customers wear. I hope to be one Black/African events all year round, Instagram: @houseofloulee of those designers that will always details of these can be found on the YouTube/houseofloulee encourage and promote individual style, House of Loulee Facebook page: by creating original clothing. www.facebook.com/houseofloulee Ayshea Newsam I also take part in charity events and How do you schedule events and donate up to 40% of the profits business planning? made at each of these events. I My main business activity is through recently supported an event in aid event participation, as this is a great of The Ngilai School in Kenya and opportunity to meet people, find out Wednesday’s Child. This year’s Black what they really want and also get History Month will see us exhibiting customer feedback. Social networks at University College London’s are also fantastic outreach tools. In Roots & Natural Fair as part of their

30 Today Magazine Today Magazine 31 THE 4 CORNERS Social Events OF TRUTH

Hollywood award winning writer Mark Straker, recently completed filming in Reading, his new short movie entitled ‘The Four Corners of Truth’. We caught up with Mark who talked passionately about his new project, his love for Reading and why he is keen to give employment opportunities to the gifted and talented young people in the town.

You are back in Reading with a new How did you go about getting this of course use my successful model film project. Tell us a bit about it. project off the ground? of film and media to engage the Yes the truth is I never went away! After After RG1 a few of us met to look at community. the overwhelming success of RG1, I what funding was available to take decided to keep the momentum going things onto the next level in terms of We heard that you didn’t get any with this new film project which is really employment opportunities for young funding for this? a pilot for the bigger picture. The Four people within the creative industries. Yes. Four Corners the short film project Corners of Truth is basically a tale of To get there we needed a consortium was self-financed. Sometimes, if you ambition over adversity, something we approach so I teamed up with Hug really believe in something you have to all deal with at some stage in our lives. Media and Urban UK Network to pilot a go for it. We were hoping to get local Some more than others. healthy lifestyle initiative and businesses, sponsors etc on board but

Today Magazine 33 the strength of the local community What makes Four Corners of Truth What would you like to see this got us through this. Junior Alleyne, so special? project achieve? Keith Seville, Gary Stanton, Jacqui It already has achieved great things as Social Events Social Events McMillan, Ray Ball, real local community It gave the local I have mentioned, but I would really champions were key in making this like to showcase this and get local happen. This project engaged so many community a voice. A businesses, sponsors and the local people on the idea that if we could voice that said listen, I authority and like minded partners showcase the potential then we could to support the next phase. We have hold a series of finance networking have talent, I can design, collectively come together to show what events in the future to make the bigger is possible. With adequate resources we picture. You can always work from a I can produce, I’m not could engage so many more people and position of strength if you have the get them involved in things like graphic proof of concept. afraid of hard work, design, music, fashion, film production and so much more. So having local people involved was the give me an opportunity key to Four Corners being produced? and watch me fly high. So you will continue to work Absolutely! The strength of the local in Reading? community was amazing and now we It is special because we I love Reading! The people have move on to meet the powers to be, to real spirit about them and there is so try and convince them that we have gave local people work much untapped potential, particularly something really special. amongst the young people. experience, jobs, self Onwards and upwards in helping worth and confidence. them maximize it! Mark Straker The Four Corners of Truth gets its world premiere on the Today Magazine 14th October 2013 at Reading Borough Council, Council Chamber, Civic Cetnre, Reading 7.00pm - 9.00pm

34 Today Magazine Today Magazine 35 Art Art Rising Sun Arts Centre

The Rising Sun is an independant Alongside many of these day Arts Centre based in Reading. It is projects Larry offers Salsa and Tango housed in a very old building on Silver classes on Wednesday and Thursday Street and with its Golden coloured sun evenings. Other classes include face artwork you will remember it once Cuban salsa known as La Rueda, you lay your eyes on it. Djembe drumming, life drawing, Larry Watson keeps the centre Zumba, Bollywood fitness and going through hard work, passion, comedy workshops. a dedicated team of volunteers and loyal The understated calm exterior of customers. As the part-time manager the building bellies the constant hub Larry works alongside his partners, of activity within. Most weekends you board of trustees and volunteers to can enjoy live music, drama, comedy, provide a wide range of programs for dance or talk. On other occasions there diverse community needs. are vintage tea dances and Latin fiestas. As a very experienced community If you are looking to try a new class or artist Larry has had an impact on many just experience a different evening’s local art projects over the years. He entertainment then check out The was behind the mural on the underpass Rising Sun Arts Centre. near Huntley and Palmer building in Larry is supported by a hardworking Reading. Having completed Art College and creative team of volunteers. They a few decades ago it gives him great help with every aspect of the business pleasure to help others to express from programming and marketing to their artistic skills. He supports adults fundraising. Many people use it as an with special needs to express their opportunity to gain more experience artistic abilities. He has also runs poetry although many continue to support the workshops, and comedy workshops centre even after they find paid work. with special needs groups. As the team grows Larry hopes to have some more space Larry would like to bring art into the to be strategic by street and meet people where they are. developing stronger Recently there was a ‘Here Comes The links with partner Sun’ mini festival of music, poetry and organisations and comedy held in the garden. The next art having a clearer fair is ‘Bookface’ on 13th October where long-term strategy. artists and writers exhibit their work Inevitably this alongside various handmade books, involves fundraising. sculptures and vocal presentations such The centre survives as story telling and poetry readings. on earned income The Christmas Art Market on 30th from its various November gives us all an opportunity events. But if it to buy unique one off creations as were to do more beautiful Christmas presents. than just survive then they would For classes, entertainment, unique need to raise funds presents or a chance to volunteer your for better upkeep skills, check-out: of the premises and www.risingsun-artscentre.co.uk a wider reach into or call 0118 986 6788 the town to capture Shirley Anstis more of peoples’ imaginations.

36 Today Magazine Today Magazine 37 Music Music Aqua Livi

Aqua Livi has been an integral part of the local community for many years. Aqua grew up in Reading and is of Jamaican heritage. Aqua has been performing and producing music successfully for over 20 years and has made strong foundations in the Music Industry.

When did you first get interested in shock records, Roots Hi Tek UK and Reggae music? Negus Melody. As a youngster, my parents would listen to reggae tracks, old spiritual revival Have you had the opportunity to record music, jazz, blues and gospel music. with any major record producers? I can remember evenings when my Yes, in the early 90’s, I had the mother would cook dinner and the opportunity to go to Jamaica to record sound of music all around the house, it with music producer Clement Seymour was quite liberating. From a young age “Sir Coxsone” Dodd, CEO of Studio One. my ears were very aligned to the reggae Studio One (1963 to 2004) was a major my throat, I don’t eat any dairy products introducing Lovers Rock, Dubstep and sound. As a teenager, I used to DJ at the record label which was and still is highly as they can play havoc with a singer’s other reggae genres. Europe has a Crescent Youth Club and St. Peters Youth regarded in Jamaica as the creation base vocal chords. When I am touring my strong foundation of reggae music. I Club and I used to ‘chat’ on the mic, for Jamaican music and produced for diet is quite simple: water, fruit and have followers in Italy, Spain and The I felt at ease managing the music and well renown reggae artistes as Sugar healthy snacks. Netherlands. Germany is well renowned the audience. Minott, Burning Spear and Bob Marley. for events as ‘Reggae Jam’. Reggae My first job was as a Manager Fruits of the earth music is not on the commercial charts, at Shine Music Boutique, which was Roots Style I follow this rule with anything so reggae followers take the opportunity located in Merchant Place, Reading. I first started twisting my hair as a youth I consume or use... “All of what we to come out to enjoy live music events them down or use my dictaphone. The The boutique sold music and clothes. I because I was fascinated by the style. have around us is made for us - and - they love the conscious message in next stage is at the studio to layer the enjoyed managing the boutique sales There wasn’t many people carrying everything be it knowledge, produce the music. Wherever we tour, I noticed track, with melodies and percussion and and it was interesting being involved in the style in those years and I set about or love, is okay if you use it in the there is a strong reggae music following then I work towards a final cut. a popular business in Reading. maintaining the look. It wasn’t until my right way” from all cultures; African, Chinese, early 20’s when I started to understand Asian, Caucasian, and European. What would you say is required for Which artistes shaped your interest everything about being a Rasta How have you been involved in someone with aspiration of entering in music? [Rastafarian]. Teaching and Mentoring? How regular do you tour with into a music career? The artistes who really inspired me are I am Ofsted trained and was a lecturer your band? From my years in teaching at Reading Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Dekker, Robert Is there a message in your music? at Reading College as part of the Music We regularly tour around 3 or 4 times College - I was regularly asked how I Nestor Marley (aka Bob Marley), Alton Yes, I am always focused on sharing Technology department between the per year, in locations such as Germany, got started, I had to emphasise to the Ellis, John Lennon, Bob Dylan, John good knowledge, expressing the need to years 1999-2004. I worked with students Saudi, Dubai, Ireland, UK and Wales. students that you have to have a love Holt and Ken Booth. I was into music do good deeds for one another. Overall, towards their qualification. I also for music. Making music from end to genres such as Reggae, Motown and the song should be thought provoking supported individuals at Whitley Wood As a performer, do you prefer larger or end is a labour of love. You can’t be some Rock music. and uplifting. Youth Club and supported BAYCP. smaller venues? a person who studies the money too The bands and sound systems I I prefer venues which are smaller with much or it will take away from the have worked with, some people might Lifestyle - Relaxation and Diet Awards an audience of approx. 50 - 200, as natural essence of what you do. remember previous names as ‘Masai I am a down to earth person, I enjoy I was very proud to be awarded for they bring more of an intimate spiritual Warriors’ and ‘Sir Watson Downbeat’, walking for relaxation and of course Musical Contribution and Education energy. We have played the O2 stadium, What’s next for Aqua Livi? Urban Warrior, Roots Dimension, Aqua song writing is great way to unwind. Awards in 2010. It was a great feeling these larger venues hold audiences I have a new album which is near to Livi and the Roots Dimension or Aqua My diet is quite natural, I eat a lot of receiving this award as I was recognized of over 5000, the interaction with the completion. My studio has just been Livi and the iMansions. Currently, The vegetables and eat natural foods which for the projects I have worked on. audience is limited but overall, the rebuilt and I have already started Trenchtown Experience is a Bob Marley are not modified. I do try and have the crowd response is immense. using it effectively for the forthcoming tribute band which is currently touring. occasional Caribbean meal consisting of How would you describe the status of developments for my music production. Our band has been performing together rice and gungo peas or black eyed peas the Reggae Music scene? What process do you use to write your For more info, please visit: for over 20 years and has been highly with vegetables. I don’t eat pork and I As a performer, I believe it is in good music and produce tracks? www.ringthealarm.com successful with our last album ‘He’s my don’t drink alcohol. As a singer shape. The UK Reggae scene attracts The melodies come to me first and then www.realityshock.com Guide’. I have also worked with Reality I frequently drink hot drinks to soothe large audiences. UK has been a pioneer I will add lyrics. I would either write Ayshea Newsam

38 Today Magazine Today Magazine 39 Business Business

Today Magazine interviews Tony Charles, owner of Mi-MEDIA

Hazel Chawapiwa shortlisted as With so many small and community and reaching out to new customers and By working under industry professionals, businesses unable to compete with the the local community. After spending entrepreneurs and founders of “Social Entrepreneur of The Year” media resources of bigger businesses, just a few minutes with professional established global businesses, I picked one man felt a need to create a media business advisors, I realised this was up the personal skills needed for my service that delivered an efficient multi- not the case. business as well as a full understanding at the BB Awards 2013 media, design and print service at the I had the energy, passion and of the business procedures and front end and offer vital career training enthusiasm to deal with general issues practices to make it work efficiently. The 2Inspire Network is proud life-skills for success, and to help them Hazel with Delano Mupfekeri from H2I opportunities at the back. Tony Charles but looking back I could see that these I understand everything isn’t for to announce that Hazel Chawapiwa set and achieve personal targets. decided to create a business that could actions alone are not ones that would everybody and many of the lessons has been shortlisted for a BB Award Basic Business Initiative UK (BBIUK) benefit young people, the community ever make a business successful. By I have learnt would not fit every in the “Social Entrepreneur” of the is a charitable enterprise support agency and demonstrate sustainable growth. channelling some of my energy in a business, different approaches are year Category. that was established in 2001 with a Launching a new venture brings its different direction I would give my needed to communicate different Hazel Chawapiwa was born in the mission to promote entrepreneurship own problems and on many occasions business a better chance of success. messages and no matter what the initial UK in the mid-70s but originates from and self economic empowerment. this can be a lonely place driven only I placed my business in a business reaction - you can stay calm maintain Zimbabwe. She is a passionate business BBI UK has developed significant by self-motivation, personal drive and circle support structure that offered stature and continue communicating, woman who started her first business in level of expertise and experience extended learning. me deliverable business actions and engaging and offering desirable 1999 whilst studying at University. Hazel in Small and Medium Enterprise When I first started out I thought professional focused insight. This would content at all times. often says the financial strains of being a (SME) development and support for I was running Mi-MEDIA correctly, in a allow my business room for future Many small businesses are young single mother and a student was both existing and prospective new way that was focused on making money growth and development. struggling to compete with their the motivation for her to start her own businesses/social enterprises ranging As a result corporate counterparts. If business business. A redundancy and the need from advice, information, guidance, Peter Jones and Tony Charles of this I was education, communication and to raise a deposit to get on the property mentoring, training and capacity recommended resources were made affordable to ladder led to her becoming involved in building since its inception. Its annual for The Peter community sectors, supermarkets a number of business ventures one of business awards recognise excellence Jones Enterprise would have found it harder to sell many them being an events company which amongst the SME and social enterprise Academy.” of their products because customers she started with an old time friend. It community. For more information visit: I finished the with interests in such products would was a successful venture and it was www.2inspirenetwork.com Academy in 2012 be made aware of where and how during this period that she realised that with a distinction they could find them in a community working full-time was suppressing her Copyright (C) 2013 2inspire Network star; the course environment. This would assist in entrepreneurial spirit. All rights reserved. was intense and rejuvenating our local communities. The 2inspire network was Hazel at Super Mothers Ball concentrated, This issue is one of the reasons launched in May of 2012, “Empowering and designed I created Mi-MEDIA - to offer small individuals and helping them to realise to make your businesses cost effective media services their potential is something that I business idea that will allow them to market like am passionate about. I believe that work. It opened a corporate business but spend the women should work together and my eyes to the budget of a start-up. This gives specific support each other on their journeys, modern business business sectors the visibility and this belief is the foundation of the world, the way resources needed to reach out more. network, an organisation that provides it works, thinks, I would like to take this further forums and platforms that help to reacts, its people now by creating networking groups empower, promote and inspire women” and why... if that are industry specific and based says Founder Hazel Chawapiwa. In you are focused on customers’ needs. It’s one way we 2013 Hazel also launched the social and willing to can offer a competitive edge to local enterprise The 2Inspire Academy; a push beyond trade as well as offer support and personal development and life-skills your physical valuable career training to young programme for young people aged and mental media creatives. 16-21. The 2Inspire academy has been Hazel with boundaries For more information on Mi-MEDIA established to help young people focus members of anything is visit www.mi-media.co.uk/mi-networks on what’s important for them now and The Inspire Academy achievable with or call Tony Charles on 01189 540071. in the future, to learn the mindset and support. Today Magazine

40 Today Magazine Today Magazine 41 Oxford University and Kingston University. Each of them contributed Education Education London Schools to their university through leading a Society, setting up a symposium, mentoring or, in Andrew’s case, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for charity. and the Black Child The female graduates studied at Loughborough University, LSE, University of Kent at Canterbury and Brunel. Two of the girls have gone on to London MP Diane Abbott is founder of study Masters, one in Management and the other in Health and Society. Oyinka London Schools and the Black Child initiative, will be starting her MA in Governance and Ethics following a placement in a which aims to raise and celebrate large law firm. Jenny was a part-time teacher during her degree studies and is educational achievements of Black students. about to start as a Financial Analyst with Deutsche Bank. London MP Diane Abbott has been and boys doing so well in their studies, Many of these young people had determined to raise and recognise the so the impact of so many in one evening challenges during their studies. Three achievement of Black students for many is quite heart-warming. of them had experienced the death of years. As the first Black female MP in At GCSE level the 4 boys achieved a loved one - a mother, a sister and a the UK Parliament she has represented between 7 A*s and 9 A*s. They have all friend - yet found a way to complete the London Borough of Hackney since continued to do ‘A’ Levels in subjects their studies with success. Another of 1987. Following her Masters degree like French, English, Music, Economics, the young men had been categorised as in History at Cambridge University Art and Drama. The four girls in this having special needs at the start of his she became a civil servant, a lobbyist category gained between 8 A*s and school journey and it was a while before and a journalist before becoming an 12 A*s. Many play instruments, sing he realised how capable he was. MP. She is always clear that as the in choirs, play sport, serve as school Several successful Black role models child of Jamaican immigrants it is her prefects and tutor younger children. presented the awards, and each had educational achievements that have One of the girls, Hope Oloye, swims some inspiring and wise words for the given her the confidence to walk the competitively for Newham. Three of audience. The winners were encouraged corridors of power and try to make a girls have gone straight into their ‘A’ to remember the people who helped difference to the lives of others. Level study. them to succeed, to remember the need For many years London Schools The ‘A’ Level awards for boys to continue to put the effort in and to and the Black Child conferences celebrated the achievement of these continue to have self-belief. They were looked at every part of the educational young men who studied, English, also encouraged to be role models for establishment including the roles government and politics, maths, history, the next generation and make their of teachers, parents and students biology and chemistry. Amongst them success less of an exception and more themselves. Despite not being a Ryan obtained 100% score on 3 of his like the norm. parent or teacher I have enjoyed modules, Dean is 7th in the country Special guest role models attending these conferences for the for under 20’s triple jump, Charles included writer, broadcaster and top level of speakers and the quality earned an Institute of Educational and academic Bonnie Greer, Labour MP of conversations. The speakers and Technology Diamond Jubilee Scholarship Chuka Umunna, writer and Children’s workshop leaders have included and David is off to study medicine at Laureate Malorie Blackman, Lawyer Education Ministers, brilliant Head University College London. One of the and comedian Stephen K Amos, former Teachers and London Mayors. With less boys will be studying law at Cambridge England and Arsenal footballer Sol funding available Diane and her team and another will be reading engineering Campbell and the Queen’s chaplain have reduced the day conference to a at Oxford. Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin. Top financiers much smaller award ceremony attended The ‘A’ Level girls followed courses and lawyers from Linklaters, UBS and by students, their parents and a range of in history, government and politics, Prudential were also inspiring. Having role models. Diane and her team were psychology, fine art, maths, chemistry, given his permission for the event to very grateful to UBS for this their 8th biology and physics. They are mentors, take place the Speaker of the House (and final) year of sponsorship. fundraisers, carnival stewards and one of Commons, Rt Hon John Bercow, Today Magazine was privileged to of them, Shenece, has had her poetry graced us with his presence, had some be at the award ceremony to celebrate published. Deanna is off to Oxford to encouraging words for the audience with these young people. Four boys study Chemistry and Yewande will be and praise for Diane’s stubbornness and four girls were celebrated for reading Law at Warwick. in keeping black achievement on the outstanding achievement in each of the The male graduate awardees had agenda. An uplifting evening for boys categories: GCSE, ‘A’ Level and degree. completed degrees at London School of and girls, men and women. It is not often that we hear of black girls Economics, University of Birmingham, Shirley Anstis

42 Today Magazine Diane Abbott Today Magazine 43 that together form the Lake Turkana Lake Nakuru is popularly known for National Parks are a UNESCO World pink flamingos. Travel Travel Heritage Site. The area is famous too for Mountains: The country is well served its early hominid remains. Despite its by mountains and beautiful hills. The barren, almost lunar-like appearances, beautiful and snow-capped Mount South Island is a major breeding ground Kenya in the centre of the country is for Nile croccodiles, while the lake is an the place to find Kenyan tea and coffee important flyway for migratory birds. farms. On the border of Kenya and Great Rift Valley: This beautiful scenery Tanzania is the world famous mountain cuts through Kenya from Lebanon to Kilimanjaro. One of the most challenging Tanzania. It contains several lakes, and popular mountains for climbing. extinct volcanoes and wildlife reserves. Wildlife: Kenya has a wealth of wildlife and these include Rhinos, Tigers, Elephants, Lions, Hyenas, Zebras, Buffalos and Giraffes. The main national parks of Tsavo, Maasai Mara and the Serengeti are well populated with these animals. Entertainment and Culture: In Kenya, you will be met by mostly happy people who are WELCOME KENYA: full of life. Wherever you go you will see a smile and hear the word ‘Habari’ or ’Jambo’ meaning ‘How are you?’ If you are not in a hurry KARIBU KENYA and stop to listen, you will be told ‘’Hakuna matata’’ meaning ‘’No worries.’’ In the evening in your hotel or if you go Kenya is one of the most popular places for tourists, all year round. to a theatre, you will see performances of popular Once you visit you will feel the need to return again and again. traditional dances, such as Giriama, Maasai, Kikuyu,

enya is a beautiful and With the equator cutting across complex country in East- the country it gets some of the best Central Africa. It is making desirable weather on the continent. good use of its natural and With its fantastic geography Kenya man-made resources which produces many of the top long distance Kranges from its rich culture to some of runners in the world. the most spectacular scenery, wildlife In Kenya you will meet some of and beaches on the continent. This the most friendliest, entertaining and makes it one of the most popular places creative people you will ever want to for tourists, all year round. Once you have around whilst on holiday. Below visit you will feel the need to return are some suggestions of the things you again and again. will not miss while visiting Kenya. Kenya is on the coast of the Indian Lake Turkana: It is commonly known Ocean, bordering Somalia to the East, as the Island of Fire and formally Ethiopia to the North, Tanzania to the called Lake Rudolf. It is located in the South, Uganda to the West and Sudan Kenyan Rift Valley with its Northern to the Northwest. Its capital city is end crossing into Somalia. There is Nairobi, well- known as the ‘’Green city evidence of its fiery volcanic origin as in the sun.’’ With a population of nearly lava flows and craters dominate the four million and 42 spoken languages south island of the lake. It is the world’s Kenya brings many different cultures largest permanent desert lake, world’s together. Although every tribe has its largest alkaline lake and by volume, own mothertongue, the two national the world’s fourth largest salt lake. The languages are English and Swahili. island is one of the three national parks

44 Today Magazine Today Magazine 45 Travel

Kalenjin, Kamaba and Turkana. (Arrow Root). Accommodation: Kenya is served All these Kenyan by wonderful and comfortable foods are naturally accommodation to give you the dream healthy and most sleep that you desire, especially when are organically you are on holiday. This includes hotels grown. The in the beaches, main cities and even in following are the bush. a few samples. Diverse Food: There is no singular dish Kenyan Beaches: that represents all of Kenya. Different The Kenyan coast communities have their own native offers a variety of foods. Staples are maize and other beautiful beaches cereals depending on the region that all look out including millet and sorghum, eaten onto the glorious with various meats and vegetables. The Indian Ocean. To foods that are universally eaten are the north is Lamu Ugali, Sukuma Wiki and Nyama Choma. Island, which Sukuma wiki is a Swahili phrase which offers up deserted honeymooners and families. The literally means ‘’to push the week.’’ beaches and plenty of culture. To the multifaceted culture of Kenya is The food is eaten to get through the south you will find Mombasa and expressed in different forms, ranging week or to stretch the week. Nyama Malindi good for white beaches and from the people, the languages, and Choma is grilled meat—usually goat or water sports. All the beaches are clean the range of food, music and dance, sheep—grilled over an open fire and and safe. If you go to Kenya and don’t art and artifacts. These combined with mainly eaten with ugali and kachumbali. go to the beach then you have not been local traditions, forms of expression and In your comfortable hotel you will also on holiday. On the beaches you will lifestyle form an identity that is uniquely be served with ‘chapati’ and ‘mokimo’ come across the beach boys, they are Kenyan. Therefore, next time you think (hard maize mashed with potatoes friendly, helpful and just doing their of a holiday, think Kenya. and greens). For breakfast, there is little businesses. a selection of English and Kenyan For those looking for excitement KARIBU KENYA: HAKUNA MATATA. breakfast. Kenyan breakfast normally and originality, then Kenya is one WELCOME KENYA: NO WORRIES. consists of Kenyan tea, homemade of the best Safari destinations in bread, Gwaci (sweet potato) or Ndoma Africa and the world. It suits couples, Compiled by Cecily Mwaniki

46 Today Magazine Health Health World Mental Health Day 2013

World Mental Health Day (10 October) is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. This day, each October thousands of supporters come to celebrate this annual awareness program to bring attention to Mental Illness and its major effects on peoples’ life worldwide.

The world’s population is ageing mobility, chronic pain, frailty or other Dementia and depression among the rapidly. Between 2000 and 2050, the mental or physical problems, and elderly as public health issues proportion of the world’s older adults require some form of long-term care. Dementia is a syndrome in which is estimated to double from about 11% In addition, older people are more there is deterioration in memory, to 22%. In absolute terms, this is an likely to experience events such as thinking, behaviour and the ability to expected increase from 605 million to bereavement, a drop in socioeconomic perform everyday activities. It mainly 2 billion people over the age of 60. status with retirement, or a disability. All affects older people, although it is not a Older people face special physical and of these factors can result in isolation, normal part of ageing. mental health challenges which need to loss of independence, loneliness and It is estimated that 35.6 million be recognized. psychological distress in older people. people worldwide are living with Over 20% of adults aged 60 dementia. The total number of people hypertension or diabetes. Depression necessary resources to meet their basic • optimising physical and and over suffer from a mental or with dementia is projected to almost also increases the perception of poor needs, such as: psychological health, including neurological disorder (excluding double every 20 years, to 65.7 million health, the utilization of medical • providing security and freedom; identifying and treating; headache disorders) and 6.6% of all in 2030 and 115.4 million in 2050, with services and health care costs. • adequate housing through • accompanying physical illness, disability (disability adjusted life years- majority of sufferers living in low- and supportive housing policy; increasing physical and cognitive DALYs) among over 60s is attributed middle-income countries. Treatment and care strategies • social support for elderly activity and optimizing well-being; to neurological and mental disorders. There are significant social and It is important to prepare health populations and their caregivers; • detecting and managing challenging The most common neuropsychiatric economic issues in terms of the direct providers and societies to meet the • health and social programmes behavioural and psychological disorders in this age group are dementia costs of medical, social and informal specific needs of older populations, targeted at vulnerable groups symptoms; and depression. Anxiety disorders care associated with dementia. including: such as those who live alone, rural • providing information and long- affect 3.8% of the elderly population, Moreover, physical, emotional and • training for health professionals in populations or who suffer from term support to caregivers. substance use problems affect almost economic pressures can cause great old-age care; a chronic or relapsing mental or 1% and around a quarter of deaths stress to families. Support is needed • preventing and managing age- physical illness; Mental health care in the community from self-harm are among those aged from the health, social, financial and associated chronic diseases • violence or older adults Good general health and social care 60 or above. Substance abuse problems legal systems for both people with including mental, neurological and maltreatment prevention is important for promoting older people’s among the elderly are often overlooked Mental health has an impact on dementia and their caregivers. substance use disorders; programmes; and community health, preventing disease and managing or misdiagnosed. physical health and vice versa. For Depression can cause great • designing sustainable policies on development programmes. chronic illnesses. Training all health Mental health problems are under- example, older adults with physical suffering and leads to impaired long-term and palliative care; and providers in working with issues and identified by health-care professionals health conditions such as heart disease functioning in daily life. Unipolar • developing age-friendly services Interventions disorders related to ageing is therefore and older people themselves, and the have higher rates of depression depression occurs in 7% of the general and settings. Prompt recognition and treatment important. Effective, community-level stigma surrounding mental illness makes than those who are medically well. elderly population and it accounts for of mental, neurological and substance primary mental health care for older people reluctant to seek help. Conversely, untreated depression in 1.6% of total disability (DALYs) among Health promotion use disorders in older adults is essential. people is crucial. It is equally important an older person with heart disease can over 60 year olds. Depression is both Mental health of older adults can be Both psychosocial interventions and to focus on the long-term care of older Risk factors for mental health problems negatively affect the outcome of the under diagnosed and undertreated in improved through promoting active and medicines are recommended. adults suffering from mental disorders, among older adults physical disease. primary care settings. Symptoms of healthy ageing. Mental health-specific There is no medication currently and to provide education, training and Multiple social, psychological, and Older adults are also vulnerable depression in older adults are often health promotion for older adults available to cure dementia but much can support to caregivers. biological factors determine the level to physical neglect and maltreatment. overlooked and untreated because they involves creating living conditions and be done to support and improve An appropriate and supportive of mental health of a person at any Elder maltreatment can lead not only coincide with other late life problems. environments that support wellbeing the lives of people with dementia legislative environment based on point of time. As well as the typical to physical injuries; but also to serious, Older adults with depressive and allow people to lead healthy and and their caregivers and families, internationally accepted human rights life stressors common to all people, sometimes long-lasting psychological symptoms have poorer functioning integrated lifestyles. Promoting mental such as: standards is required to ensure the many older adults lose their ability to consequences, including depression compared to those with chronic health depends largely on strategies • early diagnosis, in order to promote highest quality of services to people with live independently because of limited and anxiety. medical conditions such as lung disease, which ensure the elderly have the early and optimal management; mental illness and their caregivers.

48 Today Magazine Today Magazine 49 There has to be a way Sport Sport According to Which Magazine Brits are wasting £37 million a year on gym memberships, exercise and slimming classes they never attend. Then there are those of us who don’t have a FAMILY spare few hundred pounds a year of disposable income a year to waste and thus before you know it; we have another doughnut and worry about it later. Even the kit cost money – ‘I mean if you’re gonna workout – you want to FITNESS FUN! look good’. Then it hit me how simple things could be if we just took the pressure Additional Public Liability insurance How much difference would 1 hour of off ourselves and took a leaf out the required per event, didn’t see that one gentle fitness fun a week make to the Bethel United say “anyone can do it!” book of the average child running round coming. We have bought a generator life of your family? the playground with more energy than to allow us to Bouncy Castle in the There are many different types of sense….just have fun. best location for all concerned, whilst families in our community but all share How many of us go through the same routine every year? We think overcoming all sorts of health and safety a common concern when it comes to So we put a bid in to issues. Personal trainers with varying our health. Generally we all agree ‘A about getting fitter do little brief exercise – give up a few days or degrees of expertise have been on hand fitter you is a better you’. Over the past see if we could get some to pitch health session at the level of few weeks we have met more of our weeks later and then ultimately by the end of the year put on a few the participants. neighbours – friends of friends – and support to organise regular made new friends. more pounds. Childhood obesity is on the increase, and against a back family fitness fun days What Next? Look out for the Pride of Dee Park We are planning to bring this to event – we hope to see you there. drop of Olympic success and Football Pre-Season Training it seems where everyone and anyone Ranikhet School – once we have all J. Wilson ‘you have to be really serious and prepared to splash the cash’ just to could be involved in a non- the paperwork and relevant permissions in place. keep fit. Well that can’t be right; can it? institutional environment. What evening would work best Thanks to Reading Borough for you? Let us know by contacting Council who allowed us Today Magazine or emailing: use of Prospect Park for [email protected]. the initial events throughout Start today – help make a difference The Spiritual Care Foundation August. - family fitness can be fun. www.bethelunited.co.uk

50 Today Magazine Today Magazine 51 Puzzles

Puzzles Horoscope - Autumn 2013 Horoscope Sudoku ARIES: (21 March - 19 April) LIBRA: (23 September - 22 October) Think before you speak, Aries. Before you have to An opportunity for advancement will seem to pry your foot out of your mouth, keep in mind who come out of nowhere. Before you decide to you’re talking to and what you’re talking about. A make a change, take a look at your long-term lesson learned too late could put you in a sticky goals. Use your insight to better understand a situation this Autumn. Romance brightens the friend’s behavior. You’ll see that everything is not weekends this season. Scorpio is involved. as it seems on the surface. Family get-togethers highlight this Autumn for you.

TAURUS: (20 April - 20 May) SCORPIO: (23 October - 21 November) Simple pleasures give you the greatest joy this An unfair situation will be the topic of discussion Autumn. Time spent with family puts you in the this Autumn. Don’t be afraid to voice your right frame of mind. News of a breakup may come opinion or even offer a solution. You could make suddenly but it won’t surprise you. Leo is involved. a difference. A restless mood could interfere with Change in the workplace means new opportunity your productivity at work later on this season. You Sudoku Rules: Each column, row and block must contain all of the numbers 1 through 9 and no two numbers in the same for you. Watch your temper this season. may as well give in and take a break. column, row or block of a Sudoku puzzle can be the same.

Crossword GEMINI: (21 May - 20 June) SAGITTARIUS: (22 November - 21 December) 42. 1957 Harry Belafonte hit 12. Pension legislation acronym A Leo’s decision will have a positive impact on Setting unrealistic goals will only lead to 43. Scottish slopes 13. Extend, as a library loan your Autumn. A small – but significant – part of disappointment. Be fair to yourself by going for 45. “Goodbye Yellow 18. O’Connor’s Supreme Court your life will become much easier. Virgo’s ideas what’s reachable. A new friend could be the source Brick Road” singer John replacement provide food for thought. This season, cancelled of inspiration for a creative endeavor. Be patient 47. Window units, briefly 22. They hold hymnals plans leave you with free time to do whatever you with difficult family members – especially Aries. 48. “Phooey!” 24. Electrical resistance units please. Enjoy! Good news comes. New romance looks promising this Autumn. 51. Spanish currency 25. Sewed together 54. ‘Now I’ve ___ everything!’ 27. Fishhook point CANCER: (21 June - 22 July) CAPRICORN: (22 December - 19 January) 55. She played Nana in “Nana” 28. Terminated A difficult choice hits you like a ton of bricks this It’s time to step in and involve yourself with a 58. Michael of tennis 29. Letter that follows epsilon Autumn. Whether you spend seconds or days problem at work. Take a stand and let others know 62. One who’s just too funny 30. Fever symptom deciding, you’ll come to the same conclusion if you your feelings. A strange dream early this Autumn 63. “Presumed Innocent”author 31. Some coffee orders follow your heart. A second meeting with Aries may provide clues into something that’s been 66. Freight charge deduction 35. WWII army member will change a bad first impression. Perhaps you troubling you. Meditation helps you focus. Artistic 67. Many a Mormon 36. Jan van ____, misjudged the enigmatic Ram. endeavors run with success. 68. Risque Flemish painter 69. Frozen 37. Diana or Betsy LEO: (23 July - 22 August) AQUARIUS: (20 January - 18 February) 70. Like some superbly 39. Vanquished A strange coincidence early this season will renew An ongoing battle with a family member could be pitched ballgames 41. Argyles your belief in fate. Been feeling down in the dumps ironed out with some patience and understanding. 71. Advocates of the novel 44. Uses a pew lately? It may be time for a change of scene. A Keep an open mind. If you’ve been putting off an 46. Big bomb trial weekend getaway should charge your batteries. important project, now’s the time to dive in. You Down 49. Nissan Motor Co. division Gemini keeps you on your toes towards this may find that it’s not as hard as you thought it 50. By order of succession season’s end. Patience will be required. would be. Across 1. Davenport state 51. Beginning of a long story 2. Fox preceder 52. Huge computer 1. ‘Oh, su-u-ure’ 23. Sam and Miltie, in Toledo 3. 90’s singer Brickell unveiled in 1946 VIRGO: (23 August - 22 September) PISCES: (19 February - 20 March) 5. Windblown 26. Playground contraption 4. Red addition to a salad 53. Saw logs A sense of humour will come in handy early Creative thinking helps you figure out a way to 10. Bambi, e.g, 27. His friends joined him 5. Suffix with musket or ballad 56. Outer (prefix) this season. Your quick wit will be welcomed. streamline your workflow. Don’t be afraid to share 14. Catholic booklet under the Big Top 6. Actress Munson 57. Biblical zookeeper Unexpected red tape will complicate a simple your ideas with higher-ups. You may have to bid 15. ___ Gay (W.W. II bomber) 32. ‘___ Maria’ 7. ‘WKRP’ actress Anderson 59. Dies __- project. A romantic relationship needs some farewell to someone close to you. A bittersweet 16. River at Chartres 33. Mutual of ___ 8. Spots in the Seine, for instance 60. Chanel’s nickname nurturing. Make the effort to do something special. exit will put you in a melancholy mood. Positive 17. German dog breed (insurance giant) 9. Famed opera tenor 61. Major rds. Leo and Libra add fun to your Autumn. thinking lifts your spirits. 19. Moran or Gray 34. Conduit 10. Became more intense 64. Sulfur: Comb. form 20. Of a section 38. On a pension: Abbr. 11. They replaced francs, 65. Ingredient in the 21. Noncommittal agreement 40. Suffix with black or silver marks and pesetas explosive amatol

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