Nadia Shepherd Todadiversity News Spring Edition 2013 - Issue: 3

Todadiversity news SPRING EDITION 2013 £2.00

Mary Seacole heroine of the crimean war

love sax & all that jazz

RG1 Short film Health Watch Reading Exclusive Interview: Nadia Shepherd Todadiversity news Spring Edition 2013 - Issue: 3

Publisher: Contents Keith Seville

Associate Editor: Shirley Anstis

Features Editor: Mehrunissa Khan

Graphic Designer: Jovana Perzic

Design Consultant: Raj KC

Contributor: Ayshea Newsam Callius Samuel

Marketing Assistant: O’shane Clarke

Admin Assistant: Shanice Medford 6 Mary Seacole 28 Fashion with Damson Belle Photographers: Heroine of the Crimean War Interview with Denise Sanderson- Stathis Tsolis Estcourt Alex Sunshine Creations 8 Berkshire Community Foundation Photo Smarty Think Local - Give Local 32 RG1 Short Film Rico Patel Interview with the producer 9 Children 1st West Berkshire Illustrator: The Forgotten 36 Mish Da Fyah Sis Mark Chandler Lyrical Lady 10 ABC to read Today Magazine Berkshire House Assisting Berkshire Children to Read 40 Love Sax and All That Jazz 252 - 256 Kings Road Comedy Drama on Relationships Reading, Berkshire, 12 CIRWC RG1 4HP A Listening Ear and A Helping Hand 42 Education & Black Boys Performance well below others Tel: +44 (0) 870 414 5252 13 Vox Pop Fax: +44 (0) 870 414 5353 Young peoples’ views on Universities 45 Eddy’s Ventures [email protected] Celebrating with Tasty Cuisine www.todaymag.co.uk 14 Amirah Foundation Today Magazine is owned and Give Change to Make Change 46 Trinidad Carnival 2013 published by Today Publishing Limited. Revelling with Today Magazine Views expressed in Today Magazine 16 Berkshire Women’s Aid are those of their respective authors A Place of Refuge 48 The Tipping Point and do not necessarily in any way reflect those of Today Publishing Book Review Limited. The publishers cannot accept 18 Nadia Shepherd legal responsibility for any errors or Today Magazine’s Exclusive Interview 50 Stroke omissions, nor can they accept Recognising the Signs responsibility for the standing of advertisers or editorial contributions. 22 Mel Stevens All prices and credits are accurate at Overcoming 51 Health time of going to press but are subject Life’s Watch Reading to change. Reproduction in whole Challenges Formally or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Today Publishing Reading Link Limited cannot be held responsible 24 Against All for any unsolicited material. Odds 52 Samina © Copyright 2012 Today Publishing Breaking Driving Limited. All Rights Reserved. Printed by the Javelin Partnership Limited on Down School paper from a managed sustainable source Barriers Safety First using vegetable soya based inks. www.thejavelinpartnership.com 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 the spring edition of Today Magazine. Front cover - Autumn Edition It’s been a very cold wet winter and now we are through to longer, brighter and warmer days.

We have a wonderful range of interviews and features with interesting and influential people in the local area. These role models are all learning and developing their skills and talents for the benefit of our community.

We meet Mel Stevens who through a horrendous and rare medical occurrence broke her back whist giving birth. This devastating experience has not floored her. Instead, she has found a strength and support to reorganise her life and discover different ways of coping. Along the way she has worked with her local authority to change the way that they support new parents with physical and emotional challenges.

Our contributor Ayshea Newsam interviewed our cover star Nadia Shepherd. Nadia shares her career in the music business and the joys she’s experienced so far. She also has ambitions to manage groups and try new things such as presenting and acting.

We also cover fashion with Damson Belle, theatre with Love Sax and All That Jazz Front cover - Launch Edition and film making with Mark Straker. These very talented individuals share their latest projects with us. Alongside this we celebrate the fantastic Trinidad Carnival 2013 with its colour and vibrancy.

Follow Us: In this time of great need we profile local charities that are making a difference in the lives of others. CIRWC offers a place of respite and support to all women. Berkshire Women’s Aid and Amirah Foundation give advice and support to women (and men) who are experiencing domestic violence. http://www.facebook.com/todaymag We hope these articles inspire and encourage you. We are always happy to receive your comments and feedback, so do get in touch via email [email protected]. Enjoy! http://www.twitter.com/Today_Magazine Shirley Anstis MA, B.Sc, MBACP

Today Magazine 5 Mary Seacole was turned away by benefit festival at the Royal Surrey History History everybody including one of Florence Gardens, Kennington, to raise money Nightingale’s assistants. Was it possible, for Mary. There were over 1,000 Jamaican Nurse she asked herself, “that American performers, her name was ‘shouted prejudices against colour had taken by a thousand voices’. In 1857 Mary root here? Did these ladies shrink from published her Autobiography; an accepting my aid because my blood outstandingly vivid piece of writing flowed beneath a somewhat duskier skin called ‘The Wonderful Adventures of than theirs?” In her disappointment, Mrs Seacole in Many Lands’ which was Mary cried in the street. prefaced by WH Russell: “I trust that Mary Seacole A distant relative called Day, was England will not forget one who nursed going to Balaclava on business, and her sick, who sought out her wounded they agreed to launch a firm called to aid and succour them and who - Heroine of the Crimean War - Seacole & Day, which would be a performed the last offices for some of general store and hotel near the British her illustrious dead”. Mary Seacole was a nurse and a carer who served in the Crimean war in the 1850’s. camp in the Crimea. At the age of 50, England, of course, did forget Mary Her adventures took her far from home, the island of Jamaica in the Caribbean. with her large stock of medicines, Seacole. She was awarded a Crimean She met members of the British Royal Family and was cheered by thousands of people in London. 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, Mary Seacole’s reputation Mary Seacole was born in Kingston, Mary was widely praised for her and sells provisions to the troops). sculptor and nephew of Queen Victoria. after the Crimean War (1853-1856) Jamaica in 1805. Her father was a work in treating cholera and returned The moment she arrived in Balaclava, The last 25 years of her life were spent rivalled Florence Nightingale’s. Scottish soldier, and her mother a to Jamaica in 1853, where there was she immediately tended the sick and in obscurity. Mary Seacole died on 14th Unlike Nightingale, Seacole also had practitioner of traditional Jamaican a yellow fever epidemic. The medical wounded soldiers. Mary opened a May 1881. the challenge to have her skills put medicine, who had a boarding house authorities came to her to provide British Hotel in the summer of 1855, Photos: Illustrations of Mary Seacole and cover of her Autobiography to proper use in spite of her being where she cared for invalid soldiers nurses to care for sick soldiers. Mary near the besieged city of Sevastopol. Black. A born healer and a woman of and their wives. Mary learned about returned to London where she heard Soon the entire British army knew of driving energy, she overcame official medicine from her mother, soon gaining about the Crimean War and how the ‘Mother Seacole’. The soldiers became indifference and prejudice. Seacole her own reputation as a ‘skilful nurse nursing system there had collapsed. She her sons and she their mother. got herself out to the war by her own and doctress’. made applications to the War Office, Some of the army doctors - despite efforts and at her own expense; risked Mary travelled widely, she had two the Army Medical Department, and the her saving them a lot of work - regarded her life to bring comfort to the wounded trips to Britain. In 1851 she joined her Secretary of War, to be allowed to go her as a ‘quack’, others were less and dying soldiers; and became the brother, Edward, in Panama where she to the Crimea and tend to the sick and bigoted. The Assistant Surgeon of first Black woman to make her mark opened a hotel. Soon, Seacole saved wounded. She pointed out her extensive the 90th Light Infantry watched with on British public life. While Florence her first cholera patient and gained experience, excellent references and admiration, how she would administer Nightingale has gone down in history as extensive knowledge of the pathology that she knew many of the soldiers and to the soldiers, giving them tea and a legend, Mary Seacole was relegated of this disease - which she herself regiments, having nursed them while food and words of comfort, whilst being to obscurity until recently. contracted and recovered from. they were stationed in Jamaica. numb and cold herself. She was often on the front line and frequently under fire. It was W.H. Russell - the first modern war correspondent - who made Mary Seacole famous. He described her as ‘a warm and successful physician, who doctors and cures all manner of men with extraordinary success. She is always in attendance near the battle field to aid the wounded, and has earned many a poor fellow’s blessings’. Mary Seacole was the first woman to enter Sevastopol when it fell. However, the end of the war left Seacole & Day with expensive and unsaleable stores on their hands. They became bankrupt and Mary returned to England as a financially ruined woman. The Times Newspaper questioned how anyone could forget the amazing things that Mary had done and praised only Florence Nightingale? Lord Rokeby and Lord Paget, both Crimean commanders organised a

6 Today Magazine Today Magazine 7 st Community Community Think Local Give Local Children 1 West Berkshire with the BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Children leaving care are one of the most disadvantaged groups in our society, with little support to help them to overcome life’s challenges and forge a fulfilling life for themselves. Children 1st West Berkshire is there to help them. Berkshire Community Foundation based Jeena, an organisation that approximately 90% of giving goes to the ‘The Forgotten’ is how John & Patsy training, skills and ‘breathing space’ best platform for a fulfilling and happy hope 2013 will be the year of giving empowers women and young people top 10% of international and national Stone of Children 1st West Berkshire in which to mature, find their feet as life ahead. Helping these young people locally with their Think Local Give Local to initiate social change, who had great charities and 1 in 2 people are unable describe the care leavers and other responsible young adults and to set in seemingly small ways makes such a Campaign. The Foundation has been success during the Grow Your Tenner to name a local charity. Think Local Give vulnerable 16-21 year olds the charity them on a path to a fulfilling adulthood. big difference to them. Most stay with working at the grassroots level of our campaign commented:- Local is not saying not to support these supports. Children leaving care are one A ‘live-in’ young adult mentor the charity for around a year and then local community since 1985 supporting “This new way of fundraising causes but just urging people to think of the most disadvantaged groups in our helps them to learn to manage bills decide that they are ready to move on small charities and voluntary groups with Localgiving.com gives Jeena about the local groups providing vital society, with little support to help them and household chores – a buddy to fully independent living. that benefit those across the county. more opportunities to work with the support to people in their community.” to overcome life’s challenges and forge rather than a parent. Support workers, Children 1st West Berkshire is run The Think Local Give Local campaign community in Slough. People will be To find out more about the work of a fulfilling life for themselves. Set up in volunteers and a Trustee allocated to by volunteer Trustees and three part- encourages people to support local able to see clearly where their donations the Foundation and the Spring for a Year 2008 by John & Patsy Stone and other each person help with day to day issues. time paid staff. Fund-raising to ensure charities and community groups are going and how they benefit the Campaign visit www.berkshirecf.org or experienced foster carers, Children On entry to the house, each young sustainability and security in difficult benefiting those in their area. people of Slough. The Grow Your Tenner to support a local charity in your area 1st West Berkshire runs a house in person is assessed so that a tailored financial times is always an on-going In order to achieve this the campaign not only raised much needed visit www.localgiving.com/berkshire Thatcham for four young people to live training programme in skills such as distraction and worry so financial Foundation are working in partnership funds for Jeena but also raised our in as a stepping stone to adulthood and literacy, numeracy, cooking and money donations are always very welcome, with Localgiving.com and have put profile Berkshire wide.“ truly independent living. management can be put in place. but so too are offers of skills we can forward £10,000 to double monthly Berkshire Community Foundation use to support our young people. donations made to Berkshire charities in hope that local people will get behind Offers of apprenticeships or volunteer their Spring for a Year Campaign. their local groups because although placements are very helpful too. there is a perception that the county Finally, opportunities for the is an affluent one the Foundation’s young people to have free outings Localgiving.com is the Hidden Need Survey highlights there are and fun together allow them to bond many pockets of deprivation with local and opens their eyes to the brighter primary website for small, local voluntary groups providing support to side of life. these areas. charities and community groups CEO of Berkshire Community Foundation Andrew Middleton said:- which allows supporters to enter “Just a small change in giving locally could make a real difference to people their post codes and find out in our communities who are suffering from some form of disadvantage. about the community activity Charity Commission statistics show happening in their area. The partnership between the Foundation and the online fundraising website means it is easy to find and support local groups. Over a quarter of a million has gone Cornerstone a Home for Young People to local community groups in Berkshire from Localgiving.com through one off If you would like to volunteer, donations but Spring for a Year which Learning to cook at Cornerstone donate or just know more about kicks off March 5th hopes to encourage Children 1st West Berkshire, contact: sustainability for groups through When they come to the charity, Specialist emotional support & life regular giving. The campaign follows most are homeless either after leaving coaching is available to them too. The John Stone, Chairman the success of Grow Your Tenner which care or because of family breakdown, young people are encouraged back into Children 1st West Berkshire matched £10 donations and saw over some have a criminal record, many are education, into work or volunteering, The Slater Centre £120,000 go to voluntary groups emotionally insecure and immature, to follow their interests or hobbies, to Buckner Crocke Way across the county. and few have any life skills to take find new ways to enjoy life, and to break Thatcham Spring for a Year lasts until 3rd into independent living. They feel bad habits and attitudes. They learn to Berkshire May, however the £10k pot is expected abandoned, helpless, lonely and they respect and trust those around them. RG19 6HA to run out before then with over 200 lack trust in themselves and other Learning new skills and knowing Tel: 01635 500849 Berkshire charities preparing to take Left to right: Slough Mayor Christine Small, Jeena founder Rani Bilkhu, Donor people. Children 1st West Berkshire someone cares gives security and builds Email: part. Rani Bilkhu founder of Slough Marketing Officer SCVS Carol Strachen, Online Development Officer BCF Jess Nicholls offers these vulnerable young people confidence and self esteem so giving the [email protected]

8 Today Magazine Today Magazine 9 Community

Assisting Berkshire Children (ABC to read) is a small, local charity which recruits, trains and offers continuing support to community volunteers who provide mentoring help to Berkshire primary school children who are struggling with reading and lack confidence. With the latest government We rely on the generous support • £50 would refresh an existing statistics reporting that 1 in 8 children of individuals, companies, trusts, box of resources leave primary school behind in their foundations and organisations to allow reading, there is much evidence to show us to continue this vital work. If you know of anyone who would that this form of support produces a In the current economic climate it is like to volunteer as a helper within significant improvement in a child’s becoming harder for small charities such the charity please contact reading ability - and therefore in their as ours to find the funds to continue Marcia Rowlinson via email: life chances. our work, if there are any organisations [email protected] The charity was set up in 2004 who feel they could help assist with with the support of local, retired MP our funding here are some examples of Martin Salter and has continued to what a donation could buy: grow and support more schools and children since. Last year we supported • £700 would pay for the around 330 children in 53 schools recruitment, training and ongoing across Berkshire, of which 22 schools support of one volunteer to work were in Reading. with three children for a year The children we help are not children who have “statements” and • £300 would buy a box so are not given additional support of books and games through the education system but for a new volunteer children who would benefit from the individual help that an interested adult can give them. The children are chosen by their teachers as they know the children that are most likely to benefit from this additional support. Although schools contribute towards the costs of recruiting, training and supporting the volunteers and their travel expenses, the charity still have to find over 70% of the cost.

10 Today Magazine Today Magazine 11 A listening Vox Pop Community CIRWC ear and a Reading College Churches in Reading Women’s Centre helping hand... 1. How does going to University compare to doing Apprenticeships? 2. What’s your opinion on continuous learning whilst in work?

For more details and enquiries contact: Mabel Boyd, Manager; Tel: 07817 373 773; Email: [email protected]; Do you feel like you Web: www.cirwc.org.uk; Address: Wesley Church Hall, Watlington Street, Reading, RG1 4BW are losing control CIRWC, the Churches in Reading over your life? Women’s Centre, is a place where you can come for a cup of tea, have a chat, relax, have a nourishing home cooked Counselling can help meal and make new friends. This charity has been opening her doors to women you to cope with for nearly 20 years and to each person, Joshua Yakubu; Age: 17 Jack Mclaren; Age: 16 whatever their culture, need, age or 1. I would prefer going to University 1. University is much more expensive change, bereavement religion, it is a much needed place. just for the social life and where as in apprenticeships you are Jan, the Networker, reminds us life experiences. earning money whilst you learn. and identity issues. “we can all be hit by redundancy, poor health, family illness and mental health 2. It’s good to take in knowledge while 2. Getting key working experience whilst problems. We often need that extra gaining experience. getting education and earning is great. If you want to make a community support along with the NHS and Social Services. The Centre is Exercises from a chair change and put your a place to take stock, re-evaluate, and discover something new.” Our Chaplain the door, whether by listening, support As a voluntary organisation we rely life in your own hands... offers meditative and seasonal talks with activities or advocacy. A small on women helping and offering their which nourishes the women spiritually. family have been supported for over time on a weekly basis. We offer art and crafts with a tutor, 15 years, broadening their lives with and one of our ladies had been so trips, computer skills, crafts and new inspired by card making that she now friendships. Another of the women The Centre is run by a dedicated makes and sells cards for friends and began attending when her father died relatives and will take commission for and she developed mental health team of volunteers from many Neisha Rowlands; Age: 17 Martin Saong; Age: 16 special orders. This lady and others, problems. She brought in her art and 1. You have a better chance at 1. University will help/benefit you more who, have had major mental health began to paint portraits for the women. Reading churches and often education and learning with in life, just being able to say “I graduated“, issues, tell us that every time they feel By the time she was ready to move on attending University. and have a degree in a specific area. depression ‘coming on’ they do some she had discovered a different caring Mabel hears that those helping craft work. side to her personality and she now 2. I think staying in education and a 2. It’s good as long as you can maintain The Women’s Centre supports each enjoys working with families at a local out felt that they are given back stable earning is good in the sense that both work and education, it can and every woman who walks through charity, not having children herself. you can be independent. overwhelm some young people. much more than they offer. ...or simply want to talk In the words of the Manager Mabel Boyd, “CIRWC is always looking to someone impartial for people who can help out. There are plenty of ways to get involved – from and empathic... helping in the kitchen, sharing skills or information or being a good listener.” The Centre, on Watlington Street, Call is supported by the local Christian community, both financially and Envision Counselling practically. Reading Borough Council Rushaid Tihdle; Age: 17 Priscilla Kaungwa; Age: 28 also provide some funds, while smaller 1. University is better because it 1. Going to Uni is rewarding Mob: 07809 829 914 funding bodies assist in the variety of gives you a broader knowledge and stressful at the same time. projects held each season. of your chosen subject. Apprenticeships are good because you Tel: 0118 966 0107 Mabel, Jan and the rest of the team are earning while learning. at CIRWC are always ready to welcome 2. It’s great as you’re getting the best new people to the Centre. Also do get in of both worlds, the education 2. It is hard, as you need more time for or visit Making jewellery touch if you would like to contribute in and the experience. your studies. www.envisioncounselling.co.uk any other way. for more information

12 Today Magazine Community Community GIVE CHANGE TO MAKE CHANGE

Imagine if we were not here. Imagine if we were not here. home, knowing in their hearts what As I sit down to write this we have This sister would either be on the was to come. Two months later, the just had a sister with two small children streets or she would have no choice girl collapsed at school following a come into our offices, who has been but to return to the violence and miscarriage. At this point, she refused to brought to us by the police as she has degradation she has fled. go home. She did not press charges or left an abusive situation. They are all At Amirah Foundation we do not have medical attention - she just simply visibly distraught and sitting in our receive Government or local authority refused to go back. I was contacted by reception; around them their suitcases funding. We do not have grants or Social Services and the school to see with all their worldly possessions. statutory assistance, we rely on the if we could help because she is in full She is fleeing horrendous generosity of the Muslim, wider time education, she is not eligible for domestic abuse. The police have tried community and through fundraising benefits. Amirah Foundation have paid Social Services and Refuges - they were ventures. We have been able to help for accommodation, travel, education not able to secure a place for her and over 250 women in the last 12 months. and counselling for this young girl. the children. She is one of the 230 Yesterday, I spent the majority of women today that will be turned away the day mediating within a family. Imagine if we were not here. from a refuge. A young 17 year old was being raped Yesterday was a milestone with As I continue to write this, my by her father for two years. A few this young girl. I had a meeting which team have allocated a home for her. months ago this young vulnerable child lasted 4 ½ hours with her mother and A team member is filling her car with disclosed her ordeal to a friend and uncle. After this time, Alhamdulillah bedding, kitchen utensils, toys. Another thereafter the school was informed. (Praise God), finally they said the words team member is putting together a food The girl was appointed a Social Worker they did not want to accept; they parcel. Amie, Head of Support Services, and the father arrested. After much believe her now and know that she is filling out the Risk and Initial emotional blackmail, she buckled under is telling the truth. It was emotional Assessment forms. the pressure and told the police that and Alhamdulillah, I was with the girl In a few hours this sister and her she had lied. The family all closed rank and her uncle until midnight. He has children will start the road to recovery against her and in the name of ‘honour’ promised to support and give her the and move into their new home. Today protected the perpetrator which is love and attention required in such there will be other sisters who will all too common in our communities. situations. By telling her that he either call in or turn up at our offices The Social Workers had no choice believes her, she now has comfort in exactly the same situation. but to return this girl to the family and the desperately needed support.

Imagine If we were not here. know that Allah gave us this work and I order for £5, we can, Insha Allah, All of our work is possible only can only turn to Him and yourselves to continue to provide the much needed by generous donations and our ask for support to continue this work. support and services post April 2013. small team work long hours. Time is Therefore, I will ask again: I will ask you all to make Du’as divided by the support work that we (prayers) for me and my team. Subhan do and fundraising. In the last three Imagine if we were not here? Allah (Glory be to God), we are weeks I have not taken any time off, overtired and overstretched as our I desperately need to. As the head Today we launch a new campaign workload increases and more people of this organisation, the burden lies - we are not asking for large sums, find out about our life saving services. firmly with me to ensure that we are quite simply, we are asking you to ‘Give Please join us with your Du’as and your still here to help the most vulnerable Change To Make Change’, Insha Allah support. We cannot continue our work and needy sisters in our midst. By the (God Willing). We would like you to set unless we have the financial means to Will of Allah, myself and Laila started up a standing order for just £5 a month. support these sisters. Amirah Foundation with nothing but I would ask that you each print off the trust in Allah and the intention. the details from our website. If each Imagine if we were not here. By the Will of Allah, with nothing, we person asks five members of their close have helped over 250 women to date. I family and friends to set up the standing Shaz Manir, Director

14 Today Magazine Today Magazine 15 they discuss healthy and respectful relationships – what they look like and what they do not look like. All young Community people get to express their feelings. BWA have also run groups for teenage perpetrators with the young offenders institute. This would explore how the young person came to behave in this way and hopefully support them Berkshire in changing their behaviour going Community forward. BWA supported 300 young people in 2011/12. Administration Sahara Service BWA and Sahara began working together as one entity 4 years ago. Liz Terry There are some slight differences in how domestic abuse is carried out Women’s Aid ◊ Annual Reports ◊ and sustained for many Asian women Plans for the future victims. Such behaviour may be hidden in honour-based violence and forced Liz and her team are making ◊ Funding Applications ◊ I met with Liz Terry, CEO of BWA, to find out more about the organisation she marriages where these occur. internal changes to make the Handling domestic violence in organisation even more efficient for leads. BWA was started in 1974, gaining its first house in Reading in 1975. these incidents requires an extended these lean financial times. They plan range of skills and experiences to be to continue doing this important work ◊ Administration ◊ Since 2008 it has included the work of Sahara, focused on Asian women. BWA is effective and the staff have many years with victims of domestic violence. It experience and knowledge of working is hoped that the outreach and young an independent charity working with victims of domestic violence. The charity with different communities. people’s work will continue. They would Although many White and Asian like to extend to offer health and safety Devana is a local has six trustees and liaises with other similar agencies across the country. women feel able to come forward compliance work. Projects with local for help there is concern that Black authorities and schools are subject to community women may be underusing the services funding fluctuations so the plan is to The Service A motivated team and many then become victims or available. Anecdotal evidence suggests extend the range of organisations they organisation that perpetrators. Some clients move on that more people need support than work with and the diversity of projects supports community BWA is a women’s refuge with I asked Liz about her motivation to family and friends when they are currently seek it. It would be a shame they offer. They can also deliver group outreach workers and activities. for the work and she explains how it getting themselves together whilst, in 2013 if women (or men) from any work sessions with clients who are also groups with their Although much of their work is focused connects to all that motivates her. By unfortunately, a few return to the background felt that they had to live challenged by drug and alcohol abuse or on women there are a handful of male supporting women who suffer from perpetrators. I was surprised to find that with domestic violence. learning difficulties. administration and victims who have come forward. BWA domestic violence she is at the same although most clients are in their 30s BWA are keen to make contact with funding compliance receive calls from across Berkshire time empowering women, encouraging and 40s the age range is 18 to 60+. In Outreach newer communities who may not know but the work is focused in Reading, equality, improving the life chances for the past year they had queries from 83 of their services. Domestic abuse is requirements Wokingham and Bracknell. There is an children and providing a public service. women over 60! The organisation has several across all cultures and class. If you are including returns and advice centre for men based in Slough. Liz speaks of very knowledgeable outreach workers in all areas of able to support this important work, in With 38 bed spaces in 9 houses and experienced staff. For new entrants Working with young people Berkshire and they make contact with all our communities, then do contact end of project reports. BWA find that they are occupied 100% there is the independent domestic 1000 new people through this work. them via the details provided below. of the time despite a regular turnover violence adviser training. They work There is the recognition that There is a drop-in facility in Shirley Anstis of clients. In 2011/12 they housed 215 with clients to create a plan that domestic abuse affects children also so Reading called Crossing Bridges. women and most staying 1-6 months. can support them emotionally and they have a 6-week program to explore Through these facilities women Helpline: In order to maintain space for new practically. They help the women to what is happening in the home. With who may not feel ready to leave a E-mail: [email protected] people they have had to set an upper register for doctors, schools, housing, Reading Borough Council BWA have relationship with conflict could find residency limit of a year. jobs, counselling and other services been delivering a program called Family someone to talk to and access legal 0118 950 4003 At any specific time they have 30-50 they may need. The 40 staff members Choices. This involves an assessment advice. Some may want to arrange cases open at once and receive around receive supervision and have access to and a 28-week program aimed at getting things so that they can leave the area. Website: 6,500 calls to their 24-hour Helpline peer support. children off child protection plans as The staff would do a risk assessment Why not contact us each year. Some calls are direct from the their homes become safer. with them to see if they need to www.berkshirewomensaid.org.uk women themselves but many also come The clients They run 6-week group sessions make urgent changes but it is always for a quote? through the police, social services and designed for 5-17 year olds. The primary their choice unless there are Email: doctors who may have concerns about It is estimated that 750,000 age children use play to explore feelings. children-at-risk then safeguarding their clients. people live with domestic violence For the older children and teens responsibilities kick in. [email protected] evana Community Services 16 Today Magazine D has to be done. On the flipside if we Management skills Time management have leisure time, sightseeing and We use our skills in our stage We have a Personal Assistant who Features Features meeting different nationalities is performance, delivering 100% manages our schedules and all our enlightening. Also, I quality for vocal events are sent to us via email and a enjoy being able presentation and group calendar. In terms of concerts, Nadia Shepherd to buy gifts and audience satisfaction. we arrive at the venue 1 hour before duty free treats. Choreographers the stage call time. We have to schedule Other ‘perks’ often approach us time aside for media requests as well include writing and we have to as autographs and photo requests with Nadia Shepherd has been involved in music from a young age. new tracks ensure that the VIP’s or audience ticket winners. and feeling dancers have the Nadia was born and raised in Reading and she is proud to say, that she has kept Berkshire proud of our right look and Diet work, seeing capabilities for Whilst on tour it tends to be fast food. as her base. She kindly took some time out from her busy schedule to meet Today Magazine the positive the range of Nowadays, healthier food is more audience dances they will available at fast food restaurants. I have to discuss the music industry, creativity and her future aspirations. response to be doing on a high metabolic rate and these ‘fatty our music. stage. So we foods’ don’t seem to fill me out! I’m Nadia Shepherd has been involved in What experiences brought you Overall, have to use a quite lucky, maybe because I come from music from a young age. Nadia is now to where you are in the music “We work in partnership with our music my perk is fair process a family who are all very lean. When I half of the popular group ‘Booty Luv’. industry today? label, this helps us to be more effective. performing and give was younger and part of Big Brovaz – As Booty Luv - Cherise and Nadia have I started singing from the age of 4, As a group we might have an instance ... doing constructive as a group we didn’t worry about the been successfully producing music none of my family is really into what I love feedback. bad diet we had, there were no food since 2007 achieving 5 top charting music or singing, but others noticed where you have to make a serious to do! labels with calories or fat content. If hits across the U.K, Ireland and I had a natural singing ability. In my decision about what you want to achieve. we were hungry we just ate! I do love international charts.People always teenage years I performed at Ultimately, you might only have that one being back at home in my own kitchen, remember her instantly from the prominent Caribbean community chance to get to that desired goal. So we once I return from a tour and I am music group ‘Big Brovaz’ which was a venues in Reading, London and the able to cook what I want, plus the prominent part of her music career. South of England. Performing as a have to share knowledge, listen and work ability to eat it in my own time Nadia was born and raised in Reading solo artiste was great however I was amicably with one another.” and savour the food, rather than and she is proud to say, that she has keen to find a group which reflected Stage planning rushing between gigs. When I kept Berkshire as her base. Her parents my taste in music. I found ‘Big Brovaz’ Nowadays Cherise and I do want a treat, I do look forward are from Barbados. She supports the and discovered we worked well as a not really need an extensive amount to having a Caribbean meal at local community groups and events as 5-piece group, we were signed to of stage planning as we have worked Perry’s – a curry goat or oxtail often as she can. Ministry of Sound record label and together for years. Our music style is dinner with macaroni cheese began our journey into music. upbeat and the crowd responds well. and I must have a long drink How would you describe We dance and work hard on stage with of Ginger Beer to go with Booty Luv’s music? Music direction the musicians and dancers bringing the meal. It is soulful, dance music with a funky Following many successful years of even more energy. and edgy feel. Since we started with duo producing music with Big Brovaz, Nights out & free time girl group Booty Luv - Cherise and I have changes in our personal lives and Do you have someone to Oh I don’t really do nights had major hits including ‘Shine’, ‘Don’t musical direction called for members style you? out like I used to – however mess with my man’ and ‘Boogie 2nite’ of the group to take different paths. Our stage outfits always have if we have completed a (which was originally a hit for US singer Cherise and I, still keen to pursue a to be current fashion and nightclub show we would Tweet). Our music is well received on career in music, got signed to Pierce easy to move around in stay on and party. Being the dance scene at clubs and festivals. Entertainment and created a new when we are on stage so in different countries group ‘Booty Luv’. Our music has a we find it easier to style across Europe it’s great How would you define your wide appreciation; our management ourselves. We also have to enjoy how they party celebrity status? book us to perform at exclusive a passion for shoes; they there. For relaxation, I I don’t really use the term celebrity. I venues and their guests respect our certainly make an outfit. love the gym, sauna, am just Nadia, I like to be down to earth music and enjoy dancing to it. We do Cherise and I are quite jacuzzi, swimming or and not too demanding. many of the boutique nightclubs in petite, so high heels having a clay massage. London and throughout England and give us a little more style Both here in the When you were starting out in music, Wales. In terms of festivals, and confidence on stage. It’s UK and on tour, we was there a singer who inspired you Glastonbury would be great to have always a great relief to take them prefer to stay at with their music? on our tour list; it’s always good to off after the performance hotels that have When I was growing up Mariah Carey try different music events. We and relax! these facilities and I was the emerging talent at that time in performed at Reading Carnival in enjoy taking time to the music charts. Her vocal style and 2011 which was great to be able Any perks of the job? unwind. At home, I nature inspired me to develop my skills to support a local festival in my Nothing too luxurious, but we travel usually like to just in music presentation. home town. a lot and it is sometimes tiring but it switch off and relax

18 Today Magazine Today Magazine 19 Today Magazine 19 Touring Currently our touring Features Features schedule is very busy – with planned tour dates for 2013 including Latvia, Russia and Prague alongside Ohio in the US.

Music sales We have all our tracks available on download. We have seen the changes in technology. When we initially started in Big Brovaz the industry was still mainly CD purchase and the Top 10 was the way you gauged how successful your track was. Now the industry has turned distribution into major music downloads sites. It is more accessible for our fans and on the sofa in front of the TV with a Which current music acts do available to listen to almost instantly. special dinner and sweet treats nearby! you admire? The age group of our fans is usually In relation to exercise, I would say I am Giggs and Wiley, because they ‘keep mid teens to late 30’s, this age group quite sporty. In my teens I used to enter it real’ through their lyrics and music is geared up to download music from at competition level for running clubs. production. They have a young and their smartphone or via their laptop. My father was a keen sports man and responsive audience who follow them Downloads are very effective at a young age, I acquired an interest in on twitter, download music and go for us and our fans. sports too. These days I like to be more to their performances in London leisurely so I walk and relax, Berkshire and abroad. Next steps has some scenic walks away from the I would like to get into music fast paced town centre. Collaborations management myself. If I were going Cherise has done a few collaborations – to manage it would be a girl group – Vacation her brother is an MC and she it would be great to put all my skills I like going to the Caribbean and was in previously did some featured work into practice. Barbados in 2011. For time out there, on Angel’s mix tape. There is so I would take a sea bath, go out with much UK talent making excellent You can download the current family or friends to a local restaurant music out there. I’d say collaborations track ‘Black Widow’ now on all or I might go to a karaoke bar for a bit are the best way for the up and download platforms of light-hearted fun, the eagerness to coming talent to work with Web: www.bootyluvofficial.com sing never stops! I love Soca especially established artistes to get more Facebook: bootyluv the Soca that comes out of Barbados. exposure in the industry. Twitter: bootyluv-official Simply being with family, the local music and glorious sunshine makes Barbados Industry talent awards the perfect destination for me. I love & recognition being there for Crop over festival (June- To date we have produced August) too. Trinidad Carnival is the a BPI silver certified studio festival I would like to go and see next. solo album. I feel that award ceremonies are supporting the If you weren’t a singer what would industry – especially you be doing instead? newcomers like Emeli Sande Hmm, something creative - maybe and D’Banj. It’s great to see an actress. I really admire actors like soulful music accessible through Angela Basset and Denzel Washington different shows – i.e. The and how they encapsulate each of Brits, MOBO and even satellite the characters they play. Also, being channels like Flava TV and a presenter is something I could see Channel AKA. Flava TV recently myself doing – I do love to be in front interviewed us and they are of the camera! very supportive of performers.

20 Today Magazine Today Magazine 21 Skills for Care accolades 2012 with Mel’s support network

deepening her faith. She chooses to see the gifts and not the burden. Features Her well-earned supportive network MEL STEVENS has allowed Mel to continue to be a committed wife and mother. Her children are finding their feet in their own pursuits, currently music Mel is a very inspiring, courageous and positive woman, who broke her back and photography. Two of her children are on the having her third child. She gives Today Magazine an exclusive interview sharing autistic spectrum. She shares that her family lifts her spirit and she also enjoys with us her life experience... comedy nights, aerial dancing, music, singing and cooking – much as she I met up with the charismatic Mel they tried the suggested nurseries She grew up in Ealing and lived all did before. Stevens in Reading town centre. She they soon used all their savings and over Europe as a child. She is of mixed With regard to her community work surprised me by walking tall towards needed to find a different solution. The – parentage: Black Caribbean (Grenada through the local authority Mel sees this me in her cowboy boots. The one introduction of “individual budgets” in and Barbados) and White English (East as empowering people and giving them Mel flying with Graeae and the Paralympic committee thing I knew about her is that she had a 2004 pilot scheme presented a more London) and was often mistaken as their lives back. She says “it is not about broken her back, so although it was not flexible option and she worked with Asian when she lived in Southall. disability but difference in ability.” conscious, I was expecting her to be in the local authority to find a bespoke Her approach is to embrace everyone It is worth remembering that any of a wheelchair. It seems she surprised her solution to meet her family needs from all backgrounds. She admires us could experience disability at anytime doctors too. and in the meantime created a way to Mahatma Gandhi for his approach to throughout our lives. Mel is an inspiring, courageous, look at other complicated cases. She life and people. Her stubbornness and refusal to positive, hardworking and energising volunteered with the local authority and I found that having spent many take her doctor’s words as final is the woman. Back in the 1990’s she had sat on various forums to help initiate years in a new way of living Mel has reason she is walking today. Since been a model, dancer and musician change. This all led to her family being taken the opportunity to view life her accident she has taken numerous touring Europe and enjoying her life. crowned Britain’s ‘National Family of more philosophically. She was full courses to inform herself and help She was already juggling her successful the Year’ in 2009. of wonderful sayings such as “I am others. In 2008 she took a sports career with marriage and two children. This is such an unusual and a person, not a situation.” That is a degree to help her understand the Unusual though it is, she broke her incredible story that it makes me profound statement and many of us body’s workings. back giving birth to her third child. This want to get to know how Mel found would do well to remember we are She’s also taken a course on pain tragedy would change her life and that the ability to cope and even thrive in people first and foremost and our management as, to some extent, she of her family. This was back in 2003 the situation. I would learn that she is a situation, whatever it is, is temporary. is always in pain. In 2009 she followed when her other children were then aged Christian and has an active faith where Instead of feeling sorry for her up with a training qualification and 10 and 6. she feels supported through prayer and situation Mel chooses to turn her has since helped to transform social meditation. She also has the support of perspective upside down and care training in her local authority. Her a very close family. Anyone meeting Mel feels “blessed to be chosen to take business AIM (Achieve, Inspire, Manage) At first it was very shocking will see that she has a great zest for life this journey.” is dedicated to helping service users to and keen to see the positive side of She feels so blessed take control of their lives. and neither she nor anyone any situation. by the time she invests in She also gives motivational talks and supports various forums. All of this else knew what to do beyond uses her experiences and the knowledge she’s gained since her trauma. She meeting her physical needs. As makes herself available to help others through their difficult time when they well as feeling sad for herself will be feeling vulnerable and needing to Mel and her husband make big decisions about what support there was also her family and a they need. Whether through her talks, forums or completing an assessment newborn baby to consider. she can support service users in taking This motivated Mel to be very the next step. proactive and in the process she has Mel is a warm and positive person helped to transform the care and who tries to improve the lives of those support services offered by her she meets. I really enjoyed spending local authority. some time with her and her husband. The main issue was that the person For the future Mel hopes to continue assigned to support her needs from to inspire others and get inspiration the adult disability team could not from others. also help to look after her newborn Find out more from her website baby or the other children when www.achieveinspiremanage.co.uk her husband was at work. Although Shirley Anstis National family of the year winners

22 Today Magazine Today Magazine 23 Features Features Against All Odds

This was a unique evening for Reading when four Black male role models took centre stage, each sharing the challenges they have had on their personal journeys. These are stories of success against all odds. Each in their own way have tried and failed then got up and tried again. They did not put themselves on stage to say how great they are but to give insight into the struggles and joys that make up a life with purpose.

In his late 20’s he went to Cyprus for hardworking and active in their rented out houses. a holiday. Nothing unusual here except children’s lives. After his schooling Keith has always been actively that whilst he was doing some martial Keith became an amateur boxer, he involved in community groups. arts moves on the beach a Chinese man also played in a reggae band with Following the birth of his son Omar came up to him and asked him to follow friends that won a competition that led who has cerebral palsy (who is now 23), him to a hotel room where another man to a tour of Japan. Keith realised his son needed specialist wanted to meet with him. This sounded Keith did an apprenticeship in care services and became involved in quite unusual but Winston trusted his electronics and then worked as a Court health and social care. judgement and followed him to find out Welfare Officer. He realised that people Keith has completed the Common Panel (from left to right): Winston Ellis, Polly Falconer (Chair), Stephen Macaulay, Mark Straker and Keith Seville more. It turns out the gentleman was a needed housing and with his parents Purpose programme using the funding scout for Jackie Chan and moments later financial support he purchased and from the millennium award he won for For writer and filmmakerMark For Stephen Macaulay early life and film roles it is in working with all three were in discussions. Straker his early life was marred by was overshadowed by time spent in ordinary members of the public, those This led to ten years of making the death of his mother when he was several children’s homes in London. searching for something better, that action films with Jackie Chan in Hong seven year old and going to a tough He did get into a little trouble in his he enjoys discovering and bringing Kong. As exciting as this sounds Winston secondary school. However he was good early teens but by age 14 he was out their talent. He has won awards speaks of long days repeating fake at English lessons and his teacher saw trying to figure out himself and his for community directing and his most action sequences and experiencing the his potential. His father was great at roots. He sacrificed three years trying recent hit was ‘The Playground’ at South gritty side of filmmaking. Eventually he being mother and father to Mark and to find his parents but to no avail. Hill Park, Bracknell. found an agent and landed great roles in his brothers and they spent a lot of time With no one to visit on the Winston Ellis is a Reading local films such as ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. together. Mark was inspired when he weekends he spent much of his and a Hollywood actor. His personal Yes, he has experienced racism in saw the films ‘The Defiant Ones’ and spare time reading books and journey had the room gasping at the the film industry but not necessarily ‘To Sir with Love’, both starring Sidney watching television. This is when he improbability of his story. It is about where you might expect (e.g. with Poitier. He describes it as “an epiphany” started learning about stories and doing your best and being discovered Black people in South Africa). Even so when he recognised filmmaking as the characters without necessarily being because of your talent. he continues to play different roles and thing that most excited him. When he conscious of it. He was a boy scout and completed create different projects that will was growing he was told that Black His first break came in a Courttia his Duke of Edinburgh Award whilst benefit others. people couldn’t write so he had no Newland play where he acted as ‘the becoming the youngest person to win Keith Seville is one of 7 children role models. His advice now is to have voice of the people’. To some extent the US Open in mixed martial arts. who grew up in Tilehurst, Reading. It courage to pursue your dreams and his role in life now is as ‘the voice of Returning to Reading he opened the wasn’t a life of luxury but the family remember to tell yourself “I can.” the people’. Despite his many stage first full-time gymnasium. were very close and his parents

24 Today Magazine Today Magazine 25 Features

his first magazine ‘Urban News’. They were discovering that their talents Keith firmly believes ‘together we were not enough but they needed can move mountains’. a captivating life story to keep the Polly Falconer, Sony Gold Award audience entertained. winner, Pride of Reading nominee and The panel and members of the tireless mental health campaigner, audience offered encouragement to chaired the evening. The audience each other. Winston suggested setting were inspired by the stories of those realistic goals and working through an Photos: on the panel and felt encouraged to action plan. Keith encouraged people Participants ask questions. A general discussion to keep knocking on doors. Mark asking allowed members of the audience to spoke of “practice, practice and questions and share the challenges they had overcome more practice.” Steve suggested that interacting with and those they are still facing. Some performers tried to win their town the panel obstacles like blatant racism frustrated first before aiming for the world. many. More subtle experiences faced The evening ended with a sense of some of the young people in their desire motivation and positivity. to show their skills on talent shows. Shirley Anstis

26 Today Magazine Today Magazine 27 presentations and written articles about the importance of dress in business Fashion

Fashion and career matters. It’s particularly important now as people look for an ‘edge’. It’s widely accepted that presenting yourself well has a positive impact on how you’re perceived.

Who are your clients and why Fashion do they come to you? People use Damson Belle’s services for with a range of reasons, but getting a colour or style analysis can be particularly sought out and useful around changes in personal circumstances such as Damson redundancy or divorce, and positively when people are being promoted or trying to impress a new partner! Having said that, it can also just be about a bit of fun - such as a girly get-together. Denise at the PA/Office Show Are stylists really competitive Belle with each other? When lots of stylists get together, it Today Magazine caught up with stylist Denise Sanderson-Estcourt of Damson Belle can feel like you’re going to a ‘style-off’ and I feel I have to nail it. Having said that, getting it right is second nature, What does a stylist do? someone from their current place to watching their confidence grow. and everyone is complimentary of I describe being a stylist as ‘helping their aspirations such as getting a new The lows – Trying to market what I do each other. Also, we recognise that women (and men) become colour job or a partner - as it’s ultimately about when people sometimes see it as a style personality and confidence can confident and style savvy’ as I’m trained feeling good about yourself which builds luxury service and therefore I am not make something work that doesn’t to do colour analysis as well as styling. confidence. In summary, I help people being able to help as many people as necessarily tick all the boxes. It’s also a With colour analysis I help people understand what’s flattering on them I’d like to, and could! great opportunity to get some tips when identify the colours that flatter them and make them feel fab. you see what someone else has done. most and how to wear them. I also Tell us about your training? After all, unless you’re making clothes help people to understand the impact What brought you into this role? My training with Colour Me Beautiful yourself you’re often working with of colour on emotions. Styling is about I came into the role after a few things was harder than I thought it would be, what’s available. helping someone understand how to came together. I left my full-time HR but great fun too! Who knew I’d dress their best for their all around body job because of my organisations plan have to learn about the ‘science of What sort of events have shape, and to fit in with their lifestyle to relocate not fitting in with my family colour’! Also, you train with real you been involved in? and personality. It can also help to get circumstances. People often asked people, and are ‘tested’ and observed. Last year I did a few events such as the me for my advice about their outfits, That bit was nerve-wracking and PA/Office Show, the Prima High Street commented on my clothes and years the whole programme got quite Fashion Awards and the Best magazine Denise trying colours at the PA/Office Show before training a lady even suggested emotional at times. ‘Bravest Women of the Year’ awards. Denise with a client I become a stylist. I’ve always been I’ve also used my skills to support local aware of the impact of colour and Tell us some more about using colour? charity drives such as being part of a day recognised that my own style was often I’ve been interested in colour and for a ‘Caring Angel’ (a full-time carer). influenced by my circumstances, such fashion for as long as I can remember. as being at work and being a mum. I My mum likes earthy colours and I’ve What are your hopes for 2013? realised I wanted to develop my own always liked things bright so my taste My hopes for 2013 are to increase my style and that I’d been toning it down was considered bold. Also, because I’ve client base (maybe to include the odd for a while. Sorting out my own style always been petite I’ve always had to celeb!), to run more workshops (ideally review made me realise I could help understand what worked for me and in the Bahamas!) and to develop some others. Leaving work gave me the couldn’t necessarily wear trends. corporate links. I’m also working on opportunity to do something different Heels have always been important too! developing my membership ‘Mirabelle’s so I decided to do something I might be Club’ which is largely a virtual service good at and would enjoy. This is it! How do you link being an image which gets you my expertise for just consultant with the other things £5 per week. What are some of the ‘highs’ you do? and ‘lows’ for you? I am able to link my background in How would you describe your style? The highs – Seeing people transform HR with my knowledge of colour I like to make a statement through Denise Sanderson-Estcourt before my eyes in terms of image and and styling. I’ve done a number of colour and bold prints but however

28 Today Magazine Today Magazine 29 bright and bold an item it’s usually the illusion of one if your shape is because it will make you look larger Fashion

Fashion co-ordinated with something subtle quite boyish. than you are. for contrast. I love heels and own several floral rings in different colours Back in - possibly due to the 60’s Cropped trousers are in, but if you’re which is my nod to girly things. 4.influence (the decade de jour!) - is petite6. don’t crop and colour block in I also like to be comfortable! monochrome. Black and white is a one outfit – stick to one colour to give great combination but think about how the illusion of height. you wear it, i.e. does it suit you best in My own style is always blocks or in polka dots? And again, add The Golden Globes gave us a hint of a little colour... red lipstick works! what7. material is going to trend – sheer relevant but not always on- materials (such as lace) were seen The catwalks were full of volume on the likes of Thandie Newton and trend. If I buy something especially5. up top, and lots of designers Kerry Washington. had bomber jackets in their collections. it’s because I know it works This could be a tough trend to wear Emerald, the colour of the year, 8.is great on darker skins. For a subtle for me and will work for combination team it with chocolate Denise preparing a model at Mutsa Mutsaa Fashion Show brown, but don’t be afraid to wear it a part of my lifestyle. with another strong colour too such as If you’d be interested in hearing more cool red or warm orange (depending about Denise’s services or to book a Whatever I wear though I on your undertone). Top Tip from Denise: consultation, call T: 07887 643807 or email: [email protected] am always true to myself. Accessories are going to be big, bold It is possible to blend the I once attended an interview where and9. bright for Spring though you don’t Web address is... I was told I was too stylish for the have to go for all three at the same trends, for example a - www.damsonbelle.co.uk client group who’d expect me to wear time! If it’s really not your thing, snake a black suit and white shirt. print or tassles are alternative options. pastel peplum or cropped Blog is... Equally I wouldn’t wear jeans or a - www.damsonbelle.blogspot.co.uk floral dress to do a corporate event. For Men: Cropped trousers, bomber emerald green trousers, I couldn’t do pattern clashing jackets,10. colour, prints and style clashing Pintrest page is... personally, but if it would work for are all on the list. but don’t try and wear - http://pinterest.com/dendambelle/ a client – I’d tell them so and help Shirley Anstis client-journeys-events/ them do it right. every trend in one outfit! CREDITS: Twitter address is... As I work with everyday women http://www.rico-edphotography.com - @DenDamBelle (and men) I’m not immersed in the http://www.mutsamutsaa.co.uk world of designers but I like Matthew http://www.stephaniedemelzab.com Facebook account is... Williamson and Vera Wang; and if I were http://ilovethedrama.tumblr.com http://www.facebook.com/DamsonBelle a man I’d want to be dressed by Ozwald Boeteng and Paul Smith. Of what’s available on the High Street, I’m a huge Karen Millen fan. Ziindya Créations - Jewellery Ziindya defines the Art of Ziindya constantly recreates accessorising by embodying two worlds, itself, by breathing new life into each 2013 SPRING TRENDS a multitude of cultures, one aesthetic. collection, with regular additions of Not everyone can pull off every fresh and cutting edge pieces. trend, so a style analysis, style update The brand, rooted in the African or personal shopping experience is diaspora culture and contemporary The brand also welcomes definitely recommended, but here Mutsa Mutsaa Fashion Show urban fashion was created by a London customisation requests. are my Top 10 pointers for Spring 2013. Florals are in again, as they are every based jewellery designer/maker, spring,2. but make sure you go for ones Viviane Gomis. Love, Peace and Colour Spring is about pastels – this year in the right colours and tones. I’d also Viviane Gomis they’re1. being described as ‘sherbert recommend African prints available Every piece is exclusive, one of Director & Designer shades’. Whilst dark skin contrasts every season from labels such as Mutsa a kind and has been handcrafted by well with light colours, be careful as Mustsaa. If you’re not into prints, then Viviane using upcycled items, recycled Ziindya Créations they can also be too ‘flat’ worn alone. accessorise with them. findings and original African wax print Avoid wearing too many pastel shades fabric including some Dutch vintage www.facebook.com/ziindya all together and contrast them with Peplums are still in and are great for Vlisco textiles. www.etsy.com/ziindya stronger colours. emphasising3. your waist or creating Mutsa Mutsaa Fashion Show

30 Today Magazine Today Magazine 31 contacts he was able to reach many young people looking for something to engage them. Many of these Social Events Social Events young people were not in education, employment or training. By using role-play he was able to motivate these young people to explore the The various challenging situations they are familiar with and come up with a range of characters and scenarios. This led to many of the participants placing a higher value on life and realising that making they can choose to be a hero or villain RG1 in their own story. Through the workshops many of the young people realised that what they saw as normal was just the result of their experience and not their destiny. By doing workshops in community of centres as well as residential estates Mark was able to connect with RG1 Actors RG1 is a movie about senseless knife crime affecting the lives of some young people. a range of young people. The process of making the film not only gave the chance to share their story and be The process of making the film not only gave the young people a chance heard but also provided an opportunity to develop some creative skills. to share their story and be heard but also provided an opportunity to develop some creative skills. As part of this they As well as being a postcode, RG1 film came about and what he hopes to the chance of making better choices were given roles such as scriptwriter, is a short film courtesy of Mark Straker achieve as a result. for a more desirable future. He thought director and camera person. They learnt and his team. Mark is passionate about Mark Straker is an award winning that if he targeted the right young a lot about what goes into a production. young people and believes in the power filmmaker who became concerned people and gave them a chance to look Through the process they began to of the creative arts. He has brought about senseless knife crime affecting at the cause and effect of their situation realise that many people have difficult these two interests together in RG1 and the lives of some young people. He saw they may be able to take charge of lives but it is how one responds to the numerous other projects. I spoke with his craft as a way of expanding their their destiny. challenges that matters. Mark used Mark to find out more about how the horizons, giving them skills and thereby With the help of several local filmic examples to demonstrate how the hero often overcomes challenges before winning the prize (love/money/power) at the end of the story. The hero in RG1 is a young man who becomes political because his friend gets killed and he feels he needs to do something to RG1 Actresses make a difference. The hope is that the audience will also be moved to make a positive difference in their lives and communities.

The film is aimed at anyone between the ages of 8 to 25. It can be an effective education tool to help young people reflect on what affects their behaviour and the different choices available to them. RG1 encourages them to use the choices they have rather than waste an opportunity to do something with RG1 Participants at the première their lives. RG1 audience at VUE Cinema in Reading

32 Today Magazine Today Magazine 33 The plan is to release RG1 through an online portal. Young people will be able to sign up and gain access to the film as well as behind the scenes Social Events Social Events footage, member activities and educational resources. The team are hoping to attract a few more young people so that the short could be turned into a feature film entitled Postcode. This will give many more young people an opportunity to gain skills and apprenticeships in the various aspects of putting a film together with cast, crew, production and marketing alongside ancillary functions. Mark plans for this new expanded team to work on the feature film from September 2013 to June 2014. Once all the groundwork has been done then RG1 Actress Catherine Falconer being interviewed at the premiere Music Star 13D with RG1 participants filming should take place in summer 2014. For all those involved it will be Ray Ball RG1 Actress Kelly Bennett with Kathy Johnson a year’s practical experience in a very competitive industry and a chance to pick up some qualifications. As well as young people, Mark is also hoping to make contact with organisations and businesses in the creative industries. Young people could benefit from experience in marketing, advertising and promotions so if you have contacts in any of these then contact Mark on 07703179377 or [email protected]. Whilst creating RG1 the team were grateful for the catering generosity of Jamie’s Italian. Overall Mark and his team have very much enjoyed bringing this new initiative to fruition.They have embraced working collaboratively by engaging with businesses, local authorities, RG1 Behind the scenes makers Darren Ellis, Winston Ellis and Mark Straker Actress Ana Arajo with Donna Phillips charities and social enterprises. Mark has enjoyed the project so much that he is planning to do something similar around healthy living and healthy eating through the lead character of a female boxing champion. This sports drama will be called Four Corners of Truth and you can find out more from www.markstrakerfilms.net Shirley Anstis

Ray Ball, Edouard Fousset and Bhinder Singh 34 Today Magazine Today Magazine 35 Lyrical Lady MISH

36DA Today Magazine FYAH SIS Today Magazine 37 Alex Sunshine Creations and Photo Smarty Photo credits: - Exclusive Interview with Mish da Fyah Sis - Music

What music or artistes is your wired to me, lots of lyrical content How do you limit the effect of country renowned for? and melodies evolve. So yes, if I can, cold symptoms? Musical Roots Predominantly, Jamaica is known for I normally use my phone to write or If I have a cold - old school remedies When did you first discover you had an Reggae and Dancehall Music. Artistes save a voice memo. are the best ones! (Laughs)...Ginger/ interest in music? such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Garlic/Lemon/Honey or a hot toddy I first started to show an interest in Shaggy, Sean Paul…to name a few. Lyrics – what would you say is the possibly a little drop of Rum (Big Smile) music at the age of six. I took part in main focus of your lyrics – for example, usually works! a local talent show in Derby and the Have you ever thought of producing people, lifestyle, angst or love? audience gave a positive response. a hip-hop track mixed with another They are all part of life, and that’s Music was all around me at home. music genre? what I tend to write about, with a clear I grew up during an era which I haven’t compiled any music mixes as positive message to inspire others too. Team Work produced very meaningful music. yet, but you might consider my hip-hop track ‘Senn Onn’ it has that kind of feel Which of your tracks represents & Collaborations Where did the name to it. I’m always happy to work with you the most? You are part of a music production ‘MishdaFyah’ come from? artistes from different genres. Hmmm, each track is a part of me, or team here in Reading. Do you support When I first started in music, something which I or someone around each other and give constructive performing and producing with Urban me have been through. Perhaps ‘Roll feedback? Pulse, I used the name ‘Miss Mish’. Like Dem’s is most reflective of me. Yes, we support each other and it’s very Then over time many artistes in music Music Production important to me in the work I do. In sessions would be enthusiastic about Take us through how your tracks get order to succeed you have to know your my music and would always say “Hey, compiled in the music production strengths and weaknesses. Mish that was fire”. My dad liked it process – is it melody first then lyrics The Music Industry too and thought it would be good to or vice versa? Do you support the trend of UK What would you say to encourage spell the ‘fire’ differently, so my name Initially, I get sent a range of beats from rappers who become renowned up and coming artistes how to deal became ‘MishdaFyah’ in the industry! producers, and then I take it to ‘the in the U.K then find fame and with promoters and music industry lab’ and produce ‘da Fyah’ Medicine fortune in the U.S? decision makers? Is your close family circle musical at all? (laughs). I sing over the musical hooks I feel that as an artiste, you’ve got to • Don’t rush into things without taking Yes, I have other musically talented and add the lyrical content. choose the path that you are happy into consideration all the factors individuals in my family; my father – with. I feel commercially that the U.S • Make sure you have a reliable team well renowned for ‘Big Youth’ records, Which aspects do you like the most has a bigger platform to showcase or person you can talk to about music my uncle is a DJ, my elder brother is a - writing, studio production, video talent and many artistes are drawn matters songwriter and other members of my creation or stage presentation? to that. • Always remember your DREAM…and family are also into rapping. Also, many Every part of the process is important “Go Get It!!!” of my cousins sing in choirs. and each has positive effects on me. Conscious hip-hop or commercial Videos can be quite draining, but it’s hip-hop? Who are your music mentors? enlightening to see the end product! I certainly love to listen to some My Producers - JSP productions and Tim On stage, when the crowd gives you a motivational music with thought Future Performances Fury. Also, my family members are very good reaction, this is positive for the provoking lyrics as conscious hip hop... Do you have any new music or supportive and influential to my work. performer. When the live performance but I also love and appreciate some of plans that you can share with us? is energised, a performer will find a vibe the commercial style. Throughout 2013 and 2014, I have got We see that you are making great steps and then freestyle by singing or rapping. some big things in the pipeline! (But forward in the industry, who is involved Which music artiste or album they’re all under wraps at the moment. in the circle of talent you work with? Do you ever get instances where would you have to purchase if So Ssshhh!). The new EP will be released I must thank the team I work with: inspiring lyrics come to you at night? there was ‘last chance to buy’? in Spring 2013. Frank Eyembe - video production who Do you have a notepad or use a voice Oh hands down...... Ms. Lauryn Hill. has just released my new videos ‘Roll memo device when you get a burst Will you be involved in any events later Like Dem’ and ‘Madd Right Now’. of creativity? this year – so we can ‘save the date’ to Tim Fury for his amazing talent. JSP is That’s an interesting question! I was come and see you? definitely another one to watch out for actually bringing that point up with Keeping Healthy You can find all event and release as he creates these dynamic futuristic someone the other day – it must be to dates by adding yourself to my social sounds. Also, Josh Fyah my producer do with being in a relaxed state of mind & Vocal Quality networks: from back in the day…these people are and the time when creativity strikes or How do you maintain vocal quality? Facebook: mishdafyahsista ‘all stars in the making’. something! Yeah I was thinking ‘Why do I am always testing out new material Twitter: @mishdafyahsis I get some lyrics come to me when I’m and test my vocals regularly by vocal Current single ‘Roll Like Dem’ Where does your family hail from? lying down in bed’, just about to doze training. I look after my throat and try to on www.youtube.com St. Catherine, Jamaica off, then BOOOOM…it’s like it’s being keep it away from the cold weather. Ayshea Newsam

38 Today Magazine Today Magazine 39 Alex Sunshine Creations and Photo Smarty Photo credits: (Luan John , David Matthieu, Colin Burton, Adrian Betton) Art Love,Chapter Sax 2 and All That Jazz

Louise and Keilly (Luan John, Michelle Corion Homer) Having seen a couple of traditional role of men in families. He promotional videos for the show I was offered 3 p’s – procure (a wife), provide looking forward to meeting the writer and protect. However as many men and director Alan Charles along with the know women are not simply waiting but Reading producer Nicholas Walker. providing and protecting themselves. Being a poet before a playwright How does a modern man relate to a Alan thought his title would entice modern woman who may be earning audiences. If you expect jazz music then more than him? Is it about male and don’t, it is a comedy stage play. female roles or simply roles that Alan Charles first wrote and support the family? extra expectations on Caribbean men. What motivates him? How are they able to directed Love Sax and all that Jazz As a Christian Alan is open about They are meant to be strong and not Alan is a Christian and his writings keep going? chapter 1 which addressed relationships his approach to the questions and many share their emotions. This of course have a biblical underpinning but not Both Alan and Nicholas from a woman’s viewpoint. Having faiths have similar views on marriage. is a generalisation, but many men in a condemning way. He is simply feel very supported by their friends toured the U.K. he then took the The show is an opportunity for people across different cultures find emotional presenting the issues and sharing how and family. Alan also feels supported comedy to Trinidad. The expectations of all faiths and none to engage in issues communication a challenge. he understands them in regards to his by his wife who is a member of the Although this is his first solo for a sequel were high and daunting but around relationships that we all face. Alan is concerned that many faith. There is no vulgarity in the show cast. The cast love to travel and the production he now has a taste for it. it was only fair that the men had their The show also looks at people, particularly young people get and with a parental guidance of 13 he audience continue to give good His biggest challenge as a producer has say. I am assured that you don’t need communication between men and their idea of what a man is from music hopes families will enjoy it together. feedback. Nicholas is also supported by been in making the right connections to have seen the first one to enjoy women. Apparently men communicate videos and this gives the men poor role his pastor at the Globe, Bishop Dr. Joel but now that this has been done he the second. in a concentrated way whilst women models and encourages the women not What are some of the challenges Thomas, describing him as a “supreme expects future productions to be easier. take a long time to convey their to expect any respect. for a writer? encourager”. He is also encouraged by He is an aspiring musician: playing the So what is this comedy about? message. Other topics are sex and He writes when he is moved to rather his performing arts school, Theatretrain, drums at the Globe, and pan in the The following questions are on the money, supposedly the cause of much So a bit more about the comedy… than torturing himself by trying to write which he runs with Tiffany King. Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra poster: “What do men want? Why do marital strife. For example, is sex in It is set in Alfred’s bar in 2013. The everyday. He recognises that he prefers (RASPO). men cheat? What defines a man?” marriage a right or a privilege? protagonist is caught between his first to write one – concentrated – piece on a About the producer The next show will be performed at As you would expect the show does Having spent his childhood in St. love and his new love and business topic rather than several. His aim is “to Nicholas came across Alan when he Broadway Theatre, London, on Sunday not provide an answer but offers Vincent, Alan is familiar with what he partner. The audience can eavesdrop keep it fresh and appealing.” was working on Respect the Diva 28th of April 2013. Call 07989 574066 an opportunity to engage with the sees as the on his inner turmoil as he tries to (same company that produced Thriller for more information. questions. In our conversation Alan decide between them. Along the way What are his immediate plans Live) at the Garrick theatre in London. Shirley Anstis spoke of the different characters drop into the bar for the show? and share their many experiences with The team plan to take the comedy to love and relationships. Alan wants the Barbados, St.Lucia and Florida later this audience to recognise his characters as year. With limited finance and a cast of based in reality. Because the topic can 18 including 4 teachers, they are limited be quite heavy he has written in lots to touring in the summer holidays. In of humour. When I asked the producer their experience it is difficult to meet Nicholas about his decision to produce the requirements of funding bodies such the show he pointed out the subliminal as the Arts Council. The show is about education but also the sheer enjoyment hope and the team believe sponsorship generated. As he says, “who doesn’t like will come and the tours will be longer. a belly laugh?” Who are his role models? Who attends the show? Alan started off as a poet on the comedy It attracts a mixed audience of married circuit in the 1990s. He was inspired and single people from all cultures. As by Christian comedians Clive Palmer Alan sees it, single people get tips on and Donald Rand. Their performance relationships and married people get to sketches helped him to think that he too Valley Cast (Dr Clinton Valley President of USC with cast members) laugh at themselves. could write and perform. Phil, Brian, Shan (Courtnet Hoilett, Lloyd Reid, Michelle Charles)

40 Today Magazine Today Magazine 41 Caribbean from schools in England. In the mid 1980s, ‘Afro- Caribbean’ pupils Education Education accounted for 14 per cent of London school children but made up more than 30 per cent of all exclusions. In 2012, a DfE report based on exclusion data for Education 2009/10 indicates that ‘Black Caribbean pupils were nearly four times more likely to receive a permanent exclusion than the school population as a whole and were twice as likely to receive a fixed period exclusion’. Some commentators have found it difficult to explain why Black Caribbean & students nationally: make less progress; Black Boys are more likely to be excluded and are more likely to be identified as having BESD needs than White British students. Others, such as Gillborn (2008) in Racism and Education: Coincidence Educational disadvantage of Black Caribbean, Mixed Black Caribbean or Conspiracy have looked to critical Achievement and Progress race theory and institutional racism to years old and this gap appears to widen figures are considerably worse than and White heritage pupils in Reading, Berkshire: Recent local data provide the answers. through schooling. those for similar pupils nationally. This paper considers recent local 4. Black Caribbean and Mixed Black 5. Black Caribbean and Mixed Black Public concern about educational which has shown that the gap between to free school meals. evidence in relation to Black Caribbean Caribbean/White pupils in Reading Caribbean/White pupils in Reading achievement and other aspects of White British and Black Caribbean pupils Disturbingly, Strand found that and Mixed White/Black Caribbean make less progress in Key Stage 2 than make less progress in secondary school disadvantage facing pupils of Black is considerable and pervasive. these differences could not be blamed pupils in three main areas: achievement similar pupils nationally. Progress data than similar pupils nationally. In 2011 Caribbean heritage was first raised Strand (2012a) demonstrated on an over-representation of Black and progress; identification of special for 2011 and 2012 show that Black Black Caribbean and Mixed Black more than 40 years ago. In 1968, Dunn that even when variables such as Caribbean pupils in weakly performing educational needs; and exclusions. Caribbean and Mixed Black Caribbean/ Caribbean/White students in Reading raised the issue of the disproportionate socioeconomic class, maternal schools. He found that whilst effective The aim of this paper is to White pupils in Reading make less than made less than average progress representation of ethnic minority education, gender, entitlement to free schools are broadly effective for both highlight the need for Reading schools average progress between the ages of between the ages of 11 and 16. Whilst students in special education and school meals, home ownership and White British pupils and Black Caribbean to take action on this issue. This could 7 and 11. In 2012, the borough’s ‘value overall value added progress for all this was followed by the shocking single parent households are taken into pupils, there is a tendency for White include targeting of these pupils through added’ score for progress between students is above average at 1004.9, for publication ‘How the West Indian child account, the gap between White British British pupils to benefit to a greater positive action and setting equality Key Stage 1 and 2 was 99.9 – for Black Black Caribbean students it was 994.4 is made educationally subnormal in the and Black Caribbean achievement degree from this effectiveness. So ‘good’ objectives in relation to these specific Caribbean pupils it was 98.9 and for and for Mixed Black Caribbean/White British school system: The scandal of at age 14 is equivalent to a whole schools do not narrow this gap and in pupil groups. Mixed Black Caribbean/White pupils students it was 993.6. Both these figures the black child in schools in Britain’. year of progress in terms of National fact may contribute to it growing as it was 99.5. Similar outcomes were are considerably lower than national (Coard, 1971) Curriculum levels. Strand (2010) also Black Caribbean pupils (particularly Background recorded in 2011. These value added progress figures for the same groups. Early work on differences in found that whilst both White British those with higher attainment at age 7) 1. There are 322 Black Caribbean achievement by ethnicity in England and Black Caribbean pupils from ‘do not seem to gain as much as White pupils in Reading primary and secondary was summarised by the economically deprived circumstances British pupils from attending the most schools and 610 Mixed Black Caribbean committee of inquiry made poor progress, the ‘primary effective schools’. (Strand, 2010, p19) heritage pupils. This accounts for 6 into the education locus for A concern which has endured percent of Reading’s school population. of children from since Coard’s work in the 1970s is Whilst the proportion of Black minority ethnic the disproportionate identification Caribbean pupils has been broadly static groups (Swann of Black students with special for the past five years, the proportion of Report, educational needs. Recent national Mixed Black Caribbean/White pupils has 1985) which data (Strand, 2012b) indicates that been growing. concluded forty years on from Coard’s work, 2. Overall pupils in both groups that ‘West Black Caribbean and Mixed White are much more likely than average Indian Black Caribbean students are more to be eligible for free school meals. children than twice as likely to be identified Approximately 36% of Black Caribbean as with behavioural, emotional and pupils are eligible for pupil premium a group are social difficulties (BESD) than White funding and 45% of Mixed Black underachieving British students and that they Caribbean/White pupils. in our education the White continue to be disproportionately 3. Whilst Black Caribbean children system’ (p3). This has British-Black identified even after controlling for are one of the highest achieving groups been followed over Caribbean socio-economic disadvantage. at 5 years old, at 16 their performance the subsequent 25 gap’ was in fact A further concern has been the is well below the performance of all years with increasingly Black Caribbean disproportionate rate of exclusion of pupils. Mixed Black Caribbean/White sophisticated data analysis boys not entitled Black Caribbean and Mixed White Black pupils start off at a disadvantage at 5

42 Today Magazine Today Magazine 43 11. Mixed Black Caribbean/White primary pupils are five times more likely

to be temporarily excluded than other Cuisine

Education Reading pupils. Mixed Black Caribbean/ Spending time with Edith Lusingu of White primary pupils in Reading are six times more likely to be temporarily excluded than Mixed Black Caribbean/ White pupils nationally. In the secondary sector, Mixed White/Black Eddy’s Ventures Caribbean students were four times more likely to be temporarily excluded than other pupils in Reading. 12. Mixed Black Caribbean/White pupils in Reading were five times more Eddy’s ventures is the creation of Edith Lusingu, and specialises in East likely to be permanently excluded than other pupils in Reading. They are also African food as well as cakes and decorations for celebratory events. five times more likely to be permanently excluded than Mixed Black Caribbean/ White students nationally. In 2011/12 The business Is this your full time business? Mixed Black Caribbean/White Edith started cooking for others in I do the catering part-time and I also permanent exclusions were 1.13 1998 when she moved to London. run a child minding service that offers percent compared to a national rate This continued to grow until, in 24-hour care. Whether people are of White/Black Caribbean exclusion Reading in 2005, she decided to set up working in the day or going out in the of 0.22 percent. her company. It started with everyone evening I can look after their children coming to her house for a meal and so they can focus on something else. References and Further Reading praising her cooking. Then people Coard, B. (1971). How the West Indian would ask her to cater for their How did you get into this? child is made educationally subnormal birthdays, christenings and special When my 2 sons were younger it was in the British school system: The scandal events. Gradually demand was such financially better for me to stay at of the black child in schools in Britain. that she could see her cooking and home to look after them rather than London: New Beacon for the Caribbean baking becoming a business. going to work and paying someone Education and Community Workers’ else to look after them. People started Association. When and where did you learn your to ask me to look after their children Dunn, L.M. (1968). Special education culinary skills? because they needed support. I saw White pupils are twice as likely. for the mildly retarded – Is much of it I learnt how to cook a range of East an opportunity and decided to do my Special6. Black Educational Caribbean and Mixed Needs 8. An analysis of sample justifiable? Exceptional Children, 23, 5-21. African dishes from my mum and some child minding training through a local Black Caribbean/White pupils are cohorts indicates that a higher rate DES (1985). Education for all: The report of the other women in the family. I have authority and become registered. more likely than other pupils in of identification for SEN persists even of the committee of enquiry into the enjoyed cooking for as long as I can Reading to be identified as having when eligibility for free school meals is education of children from ethnic minority remember. I also have an American aunt How is it going? special educational needs, particularly factored in, particularly for Mixed Black groups (The Swann report). London: who I used to babysit for. She taught me It goes up and down as people move behavioural, emotional and social Caribbean/White pupils. HMSO. a lot about baking and cake decorating. in and out of the area. I have younger needs (BESD). 40% of Black Caribbean DFE (2012) A profile of pupil exclusions children in the day and older ones students in Y11 in 2011 were identified in England Research Report DFE – RR190 Tell me more about the food after school so the days are quite as having special educational needs Exclusions9. Black Caribbean and Mixed Black Gillborn 2008 Racism and Education, you prepare? varied. I am lucky that lots of (including School Action, School Action Caribbean/White pupils are at a higher Coincidence or Conspiracy? London: I grew up in Tanzania and this is the people recommend me. Plus and Statements) and 43% of Mixed risk of exclusion than pupils from other Routledge basis of my cooking. We like spicy Black Caribbean/White students. The ethnic groups and at a higher risk of Strand, S. (2010). Do some schools chicken, fish and meat. I also cook Any plans for the future? percentage of all pupils identified with exclusion than pupils of the same narrow the gap? Differential school chapatti, samosas and pilau. A popular I would love to have a big venue like special educational needs was only 34%. ethnic background nationally. effectiveness by ethnicity, gender, Tanzanian staple is ugali which is like a a hotel where I can put on events and In 2010, 56% of Y11 Black Caribbean 10. The latest local figures show poverty and prior achievement. School stiff porridge. We tend to use a lot of use all my decorating and cake making students were identified as having SEN. continuing high primary and secondary Effectiveness and School Improvement, coconut in our cooking. There is also a skills. There could also be a children’s 7. In the primary sector Black fixed term exclusion rates for Mixed 21, (3), 289-314. very popular spicy tea made with ginger or young person’s play area as people Caribbean pupils are twice as likely as Black Caribbean/White pupils. 18.5 per Strand, S. (2012a) White British-Black and cardamon. come together to celebrate. God has other pupils to be identified as having cent 1 of Mixed Black Caribbean/White Caribbean achievement gap: Tests, blessed me and I continue to work on BESD needs and Mixed Black Caribbean/ primary pupils were excluded tiers and teacher expectations, British How has the recession been my dream and stay positive. White pupils are three times as likely to in 2011/12 and 18.01 per cent of Educational Research Journal, in press. affecting you? be similarly identified. In the secondary Mixed Black Caribbean/White Strand (2012b) Disproportionate I now have fewer events but some If you would like to get in touch with sector, Black Caribbean pupils are secondary aged students. 13.5 percent identification of Black students with functions still happen. Baby showers, Edith and get her to help you with your significantly more likely than other of Black Caribbean secondary school special educational needs (SEN): Recent graduations and weddings still need celebrations, please call: 07804 234 755 pupils to be identified as having BESD students in Reading experienced a national data from England BERA celebrating. I also do meetings, or email: [email protected] needs and Mixed Black Caribbean/ fixed term exclusion. Conference presentation 2012 trainings and conferences. Shirley Anstis

1 - Exclusion data is normally represented as the number of exclusions expressed as a percentage of the number (headcount) of pupils (excluding dually registered pupils). A pupil may be excluded more than once, therefore it is possible for the number of exclusions as a percentage of the school population to be greater than 100 percent.

44 Today Magazine Today Magazine 45 Caribbean Carnival celebrations History To this day some of the traditional Travel are becoming increasingly known as a Carnival emerged on a small scale mas characters can still be seen in the time for festival revelry. You can either amongst the African natives following procession: Trinidad spectate with over 60,000 million the era when French and Spanish Dame Lorraine - dressed as a French visitors or you can register with a owners/planters were prevalent on the Aristocrat masquerade band and be part of the islands; the Africans admired the clothes Jab Jab - Jab Molassie (Diablesse) action. Trinidad Carnival is emerging as they wore to the lavish balls they painted with tar or blue paint one of ‘the greatest shows on earth’. hosted on the islands. Sailors - powder Becoming a close second to Brazil When slavery was abolished, the Carnival 2013 Carnival (which is held on the same African locals took to the streets with Annual Carnival Events dates). It is placing the Caribbean on drums. They used tamboo bamboo January and February - Lead up to the map and when you meet people with elaborate designs mimicking the carnival parties - In Port of Spain, San on the street you find out that they are French and Spanish people. Year on year Fernando and Tobago from Sweden, Germany, Canada, U.S, this festival has gone from strength to February Grenada, Barbados, Jamaica and the strength to become the internationally Di Marche Gras list goes on. acclaimed event which we love and Parade of Bands People love Trinidad Carnival admire today. Pan-o-rama - Steel Pan Competition and for the range of events and positive Finals energy which exudes from spectators, Soca Monarch, Soca Groovy, Soca- masqueraders and performers Carnival is held every year on Chutney Monarch Competitions throughout the many events. Carnival Weekend the Monday and Tuesday before J’ouvert - Opening ceremony of carnival day - mud mas Ash Wednesday. Saturday Kiddies Carnival Carnival Monday and Tuesday Breakfast Parties Carnival Midnight Cooler Cruises - Professional DJ’s - locally known as ‘bring yuh cooler fetes’ Ash Wednesday - The Post carnival exodus to Maracus bay or Tobago for Trini mas band individuals beach parties. Reporter Ayshea Newsam Ayshea Newsam with costume designers posing with our Magazine

Masqueraders posing with Today Magazine

Jamaicans enjoying carnival festivities with Today Traditional themed mas German masquerader in Masqueraders outside the band - sailors with Today T&T posing with Today Savannah with our Magazine Revellers with Bajan flag posing with Today Background Photo: Stathis Tsolis 46 Today Magazine Today Magazine 47 Book Review The Tipping Point

How little things can make a big difference by Malcolm Gladwell

The premise of this book is a desire 50% of these random strangers Those people absorb information about to explain sudden massive changes in sent their package via the same 3 different places, prices and products human behaviour. individuals. These 3 people are what and want to share it with others. When the author explores crime Gladwell calls connectors: they know Finally he identifies salesmen figures in poor parts of New York the a wide range of people from different as those who persuade us of the figures show that within a importance of the 5-year period in the 1990’s message. Through various murders dropped 64% and examples he shows how total crimes by almost 50%. we can be persuaded Alongside a decline in the through nonverbal cues. drug trade and an ageing For the stickiness factor population, he points to some he demonstrates how of the smaller changes that the message needs to led to the dramatic fall. These stick to persuade us to do involved cleaning up the city something differently. physically and making it clear Gladwell makes that previously ignored low use of Philip Zimbardo’s level crimes (on subways, prison experiment which street corners) would not be showed how assigning tolerated. Eventually people regular people to the felt safer and less vulnerable to roles of prisoners and crime which made them more guards had a massive confident and more likely to impact on their behaviour report criminal activity as they and their feelings. now believed someone would Our situation has a big take it seriously. impact on our behaviour. Gladwell sees these Think of how you epidemic changes as being (i) decided on the last place contagious, (ii) a time when you visited or the last little changes can have a big thing you bought, who impact and (iii) change happens or what convinced you to dramatically not gradually choose that one from all (the tipping point). the others? Gladwell’s research has led I was shocked him to believe that this tipping by his unconscious point is governed by 3 rules: contagiousness factors in teenage smoking, suicides 1. the law of the few and car accidents! The (connectors, mavens incidental non-verbal and salesmen) communities. Most people achieved cues that can influence peoples’ 2. the stickiness factor this in around 6 steps (people) leading voting patterns are also startling. By 3. the power of context. to the idea of 6 degrees of separation. looking at the data he shows how So whilst connectors help to human behaviour is “influenced by our He refers to Stanley Milgram’s spread the message Gladwell turns surroundings, our immediate context 1960’s experiment where he recruited his attention to the message itself. For and the personalities of those around 160 strangers to get a package to one these he uses the Yiddish word maven: us.” Gangnam style anyone? particular man in Boston. Surprisingly person who accumulates knowledge. Shirley Anstis

48 Today Magazine Health Health STROKE During a BBQ, a woman stumbled totally reverse the effects of a stroke. • Carotid artery disease Healthwatch will be the new consumer champion for both health and social care. It will exist in two and took a little fall - she assured He said the trick was getting a stroke and peripheral everyone that she was fine (they recognised, diagnosed, and then • Cardiovascular disease distinct forms – local Healthwatch, at local level, and Healthwatch England, at national level. offered to call paramedics) ...she getting the patient medically cared (heart failure, congenital heart said she had just tripped over a brick for within 3 hours. defects, coronary heart disease, Local Healthwatch Healthwatch England Contact Us because of her new shoes. They got her cardiomegaly, kardiomyopathy) The aim of local Healthwatch will be to Healthwatch England will gather For more information about cleaned up and got her a new plate of NEW SIGN OF A STROKE • Transient ischemic attack (TIA) give citizens and communities a stronger and analyse information from Healthwatch visit our website: food. While she appeared a bit shaken • Hypercholesterolemia voice to influence and challenge how local services, and take its findings www.healthwatch.co.uk up, Jane went about enjoying herself A new ‘sign’ of a stroke is: • Sickle cell disease health and social care services are to the national bodies which plan or contact Reading LINk. the rest of the evening. Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his/her • Obesity and lack of activity provided within their locality. and run care services. It will tell Jane’s husband called later telling tongue. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it • Use of alcohol them people’s concerns, pass on To Have Your Say and for more everyone that his wife had been taken goes to one side or the other that is also • The use of illegal drugs Local Healthwatch will: and analyse information, and information get in touch: to the hospital. At 6:00 PM Jane passed an indication of a stroke. • Have the power to enter and offer advice. away. She had suffered a stroke at the Stroke risk factors that can not view services Tel: 0118 902 3912 BBQ. Had they known how to identify RISK FACTORS be modified: • Influence how services are set Through the Healthwatch network, the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane • Age: Increased risk of stroke up and commissioned by having Healthwatch England will make sure E-mail: [email protected] would be with us today. Some don’t Stroke risk factors that can be modified: with getting older a seat on the local health and the voices of people who use health die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless • High blood pressure • Gender: Men have a greater risk wellbeing board and social care services are heard Web: www.readinglink.org.uk condition instead. • Diabetes mellitus of suffering a stroke than women. • Produce reports which influence by the Secretary of State, the Care A neurologist says that if he can get • Smoke • Family history the way services are designed and Quality Commission (CQC), the NHS Twitter: ReadingLINk to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can • Atrial fibrillation • Having had a stroke delivered by commissioners Commissioning Board, Monitor, and • Pass information and every local authority. By law, they will Facebook: Reading LINk recommendations to Healthwatch have to listen to Healthwatch and England and the Care Quality respond to its concerns. Reading LINk will be Commission (CQC) • Provide information, advice and replaced by Healthwatch support about local services. Reading in April 2013.

50 Today Magazine Today Magazine 51 Business Business SAMINA DRIVING SCHOOL Safety First

Interview with Samina Dar - Advanced Driving Instructor “Observe & Absorb!” Prior to opening a driving school, What is it about driving that Could you explain to me the you were involved with the Pakistani you like? process for someone who wants to Community Centre. Tell me more about Teaching really. It’s a daring job on the get a driving licence and has never your community work? road, although I do have the controls. driven before? I was the first development worker for It’s quite rewarding that they’ve learnt First of all, they have to get a provisional the Pakistani Community and seconded a skill for life. licence. If they haven’t done the theory, by Reading Borough Council. I had I also teach them theory. I teach them quite a tough time at first, because I What is it about driving that road signs and markings, pedestrian wasn’t Pakistani and come from Kenya. you dislike? crossings, whatever is on the road. I worked there for about 8 years. (laughter) – To be honest, I don’t like the They don’t have to take the theory test I had to introduce a women’s group, other drivers when they do silly things. before they start driving. Samina Dar mother and toddler group and youth I actually love driving, and what I don’t group. With the elderly class they like is when I have to teach someone Where do you take learners for What do you think about the and translating. used to come and talk about who is really naive about the rules or driving lessons? “prejudice” that women are I speak Urdu, themselves, do computer and English doesn’t want to follow them. We drive around Reading. To be honest bad drivers? Punjabi and even classes. The most popular group was with you, the very first lesson I take (Laughter) – Actually they are. But, Swahili. This does Friday prayers for ladies. What are the biggest challenges in them to a busy road so that they having said that, the women don’t want help me with the today’s driving school market? get used to the traffic. Usually I give to give way. However, as I am on the business as I can How did you come up with idea There are lots of new instructors on the 2-hour lessons. road most of the time myself I think that teach learners to open a driving school? road, and I have to keep up with that. I taxi drivers and van delivery drivers are that other In 2004 I had done an interpretation have to make sure that my standard is Do they have to get a couple of very dangerous drivers as they will not instructors are course through the Workers Education always high. lessons first to get used to the car, give way or they will break very harsh. not able to. Centre (WEA). At that time, there commands and similar? were no Asian instructors in Reading How do you attract learners? If you want to take the lesson I will Being a woman instructor – How can people so I thought – I’ll take this opportunity I make sure that I give them a guarantee drive you straight to a busy road and do you attract more female drivers? get in touch with you and teach our ladies – especially that they will pass, and I motivate them. explain things to you and teach you I attract both male and female clients. if they want driving lessons? If you would like to book Muslim ladies. I make them understand that driving about the mirrors and signals, whilst In November I had 8 men and 2 women. I distribute my business cards through is not just passing the test, but it’s telling you all about the car itself the It varies really but there is no limit to shops, but most of the time it is word driving Lessons with How did you set it up? actually the understanding and the pedals, gears, safety, the seatbelt, and the amount of learners I can take at of mouth. Once learners pass, they very Samina Driving School, What did the process involve? mechanical side too. all the main components. any time. often recommend me. I joined the Driving Instructor please contact Samina School which was then in South Do you have any particular advice What about people who already What about ethnic origins? What are your working hours? Dar on: Street, Reading. that you give to your learners? have a driving licence – maybe As a BME* woman, do you have more Usually it’s from 7am – but I am very I tell them – “Observe and Absorb!” from their original countries of birth people from BME backgrounds? flexible so I can fit around people’s When did you learn to drive? – but they need to retake the driving It’s usually a mixture. My teaching is schedule. I can do lessons after work 07970 389908 I learned to drive in England, but it What packages do you offer? test again? the same for everybody, but sometimes and on the weekends. I can work even is very different becoming a driving For students I have special rates if they On the first lesson I assess their driving I have to give fewer instructions to after 12pm on weekends if they have a instructor. Of the theory test we book 10 or 20 lessons. The first lesson is by observing and seeing what they do. people born here. It is quite challenging test coming up. were only allowed up to 3 mistakes from always free to encourage them to try it After the session, I will tell them what for me to teach women who don’t or email her on: 100 questions. out, and see how my teaching is. they need to improve. speak English because I end up teaching Jovana Perzic [email protected]

52 Today Magazine *Black and Minority Ethnic Today Magazine 53 Puzzles

Puzzles Horoscope - Spring Horoscope Sudoku ARIES: (21 March - 19 April) LIBRA: (23 September - 22 October) A co-worker tries to help you with a problem, Seek harmony in the workplace this season. but creates confusion instead. Don’t get frustrated; Don’t become involved in an office disagreement. it won’t help. Just work together to resolve the Family matters become hectic. Loved ones will problem. Love is in the air this season for you. look to you for advice and support. Take a deep A friend of a friend reveals his or her true breath. You’ll be able to help everyone out and feelings for you. Scorpio plays an important role. still have time for yourself.

TAURUS: (20 April - 20 May) SCORPIO: (23 October - 21 November) Your tendency to keep quiet pays off in the Follow your instincts in the business world this beginning of the season. A close friend needs to season. It’s your nature to tell the truth, so talk to you and reveals personal information. stick to it. Don’t be tempted to embellish; Your confidence will be appreciated. it will backfire. Love takes centre stage as When it comes to romance, you’ll have to make this season draws to a close. An old friend will Sudoku Rules: Each column, row and block must contain all of the numbers 1 through 9 and no two numbers in the same a decision. Think about where you stand in that resurface and want to begin a relationship. column, row or block of a Sudoku puzzle can be the same. special relationship. Follow your heart.

Crossword GEMINI: (21 May - 20 June) SAGITTARIUS: (22 November - 21 December) electronics” sloganeer, once “Turn on, tune in, drop out” Be patient at work this season. While your boss Be frank when a close friend asks for your opinion. 48. Orderly 13. Dummkopfs may seem too conservative for you, he or she While the truth may not be what he or she wants 51. Thick smog, say 18. Hold up again really has your best interests at heart. You need to hear, it’s what he or she needs to hear. 54. Like a bug in a rug, 22. “Jurassic Park” predator, to look out for yourself when it comes to your Your romantic life slows down this season, but according to an expression briefly personal life. It will feel like everyone is against don’t get discouraged. This break will give you time 55. Imperil 24. U.C.L.A. quarterback, perhaps you. Be cautious when making decisions. to relax and focus on yourself. 58. Incursion 25. Skillful 62. Carp kin 27. Bollard’s relative CANCER: (21 June - 22 July) CAPRICORN: (22 December - 19 January) 63. Wharton novel 28. Eight: Comb. form Don’t be the first to volunteer for a new project Now’s your chance to shine at work. You’ll be 66. Hoosegow room 29. God with a magic hammer at work. Wait to see everything that’s involved, given the opportunity to lead a new project; your 67. What a lumberjack leaves 30. Income: Fr. because it may be more than you’ve bargained for. intelligence and efficiency will shine through. behind 31. Morticia’s creator However, you should take a chance when it comes Don’t be shy when it comes to meeting new 68. “Man, that hurts!” 35. Drug buster, for short to romance. Don’t wait for that intriguing person people this season. Your sweet, sensitive side will 69. Johnson of ‘Laugh-In’ 36. Predator of the sea to ask you out. Be brave and make the first move. endear you to someone with a lot of connections. 70. Bronco buster 37. “Hud” actress 71. ___ Trueheart, Dick Tracy’s 39. Okay LEO: (23 July - 22 August) AQUARIUS: (20 January - 18 February) love 41. Distinctive style Your sympathetic side will be called on early this Let your practical side lead you in your decision 44. “Rock of Ages,” e.g. season. A loved one needs you to listen and give making as this season begins. It may seem like Down 46. Belongings moral support. Be honest, but caring. a good idea to make an impulsive purchase, but 49. Most Solomonic Give in to your desires and shower yourself in don’t do it. Finances will be tight. A relationship 1. All-time All-Star Game 50. Luzon native luxury this month. It’s going to be a hectic one at moves into high gear when you realise how much Across leader in hits (23), runs (20), 51. Hajj goal work, so you deserve to pamper yourself. you have in common with that special someone. and stolen bases (6) 52. “Devil __ Heart”: Beatles 1. Fem.’s opposite 26. Layouts 2. Ending with peek or bug 53. Like blue movies 5. “___ of robins...” 27. Place for keepsakes, perhaps 3. Novelist Bellow 56. Old comic strip character Kett VIRGO: (23 August - 22 September) PISCES: (19 February - 20 March) 10. Sch. where Bill Walton played 32. German first person 4. Decorative necktie 57. Baba au ___ While you usually like to be alone, working Slow down this season, because it will feel 14. “Two guys walk into ___...” 33. Made holes 5. ____ crow: recanted 59. “Tamerlane” playwright as a team at work this season will make as if your entire world is closing in on you. 15. Good earth 34. It’s in the air 6. Disease research org. Nicholas things so much easier. You’ll share a lot of A few days off of work will help you relax and 16. Negative votes 38. Sporty auto roof 7. Abbr. on a contour map 60. Singer Tori with the album good ideas and actually make some close friends. time with loved ones will show you that you’re 17. Mall map sentence 40. ___ Nast 8. Houston player, informally “Little Earthquakes” Loved ones will rely on you to take care of a still in control of your life. Virgo and Sagittarius 19. Many mgrs.’ college degrees 42. Chance it 9. Rules from Moses, collectively 61. Some coniferous trees family matter. Aquarius is involved. play important roles. 20. Unravel 43. Hebrew holy text 10. Opened, as a door 64. Soul, in St.-Lo 21. “Candide” author 45. Sloping type: Abbr. 11. Sergeant fish 65. ‘All Things Considered’ 23. Russian vehicle 47. “The most trusted name in 12. Timothy who preached, broadcaster

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