Young Black & Successful CIC

Results Day: Live Coverage

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:06:17 +0100

The Guardian is running a commentary on today’s results day.

Check out the link below to keep up to date:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2012/aug/16/a-level-results-university-clearing-2012?newsfeed=true

It's nearly over.

Sat, 11 Aug 2012 01:32:00 +0100

Indeed the sad reality is that the Olympics games are nearly over. It has taken us year and billions of pounds to create and host this once-in-a-lifetime event. If you have had the privilege of working or being a part of the Olympics, you’ll understand the sheer size of the workforce that has been put into this event.

Every morning London’s transport is scattered with people in all sorts of uniform. The green security guards, the purple volunteers, the all black folk as well as others. It’s at such a point at 6 odd AM that I look around as I go along my journey and realised that the games would not even have been able to be concieved were it not for the support of the British public. Every day people are waking up at odd hours, going to bed in the early hours, all to support our team, Team Great Britain.

And what a team we have! We have so many young athletes in all sorts of events that are successful for just being able to represent the entire country. Not to mention the medals that have come our way. It is pretty proud moment for everyone who considers themselves to be part of this great nation.

Ask anyone who has watched any of the events and they will tell you of the radical support that Team GB fans are giving. The entire country is not only working daily to see the games through but we are supporting like soccer mums at the sidelines.

The Olympics may be nearing an end but more fun awaits with the Paralympics! Make the most of this opportunity, visit the Olympic Park, watch events and be involved in the games whichever way possible. This may be London’s 3rd time hosting the games but the only time to do so within our lifetime. That’s big.

Not to mention the level of inspiration out there. You don’t have to be Jessica Ennis’ sister to feel the motivation and pride. Our young athletes have shocked us and who knows, your turn may be next.

Writers Block BBQ Showcase

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 21:03:00 +0100

If you’re stuck for something to do this Sunday and fancy a BBQ, why not head down to the Writers Block Showcase. The event will be headlined by Jay Norton who is most recognised for his rendition of Aloe Blacc’s I need a dollar on BBC 1 The Voice. Also featuring will be soul/jazz artist Kersha Bailey; Poet, playwright and musician Dean Atta known for his popular poem I am nobody’s n***** and English- Eritrean singer songwriter Desta Haile. Tickets are seven pounds and will be held at Macbeth, 70 Hoxton Street.

Jamaica turns 50

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 13:55:52 +0100

Jamaica is basking in its independence day celebrations a day after Usain Bolt retained the Olympic gold medal in the men’s 100m, with his compatriot Yohan Blake taking the silver.

The Caribbean nation is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its independence from British rule.

In the Jamaican capital, Kingston, thousands gathered in the national stadium to watch the race and celebrate the Jamaican medals.

Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller described her country’s success as “just marvellous”.

It’s truly a double toast for the nation following Usain Bolt’s Olympic glory.

Residents are encouraged to head down to Harlesden Library Plus, in Craven Park Road, today where an all day celebration will be honouring Jamaican culture.

Former Mastermind champion Shaun Wallace will be in town later on in the evening to host a brain scratching quiz from 6-15pm.

Arts and crafts stalls will also be available all day.

African Fashion Week London

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 23:14:34 +0100

Solange Knowles wearing Maki Oh

African Fashion Week London, founded by Nigerian Entrepreneur Ronke Ademiluyi, started on Friday 3rd August.

The show is to feature 50 designers and 100 models. Notable designers include Adebayo Jones who is recognised for his evening and bridal designs. Ghanaian designer Aisha Obuobi creator of Christie Brown who is renowned in Accra for her women’s wear. Stiaan Louw from South Africa who is to showcase an Olympic themed collection called Atletiek. Another favourite is Nigerian designer Amaka Osakwe, founder of label Maki Oh which is worn by celebs such as Solange Knowles.

African designers are rising in popularity with Kelis wearing Lagos label Jewel By Lisa and Michelle Obama wearing London-based Nigerian designer Duro Olowu.

Founder of AFWL Ronke told The Metro: ‘My aim is to create more visibility for African designers and to create a one-stop shop for the public.

We were expecting 500 people last year and almost 5,000 turned up. It was something people had clearly been waiting for.’

Source: The Metro

Are you passionate about inspiring your peers? Do you want to join a team that intends to change...

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 13:25:15 +0100

Are you passionate about inspiring your peers? Do you want to join a team that intends to change their world? Are you 16-25 years old looking for work experience that is meaningful??

Is it your ambition to become a journalist or have a career in PR? Are you passionate about Events Management and a seeking an opportunity to shine? Are you passionate about Community and helping young people succeed?

LOOK NO FURTHER!

We are currently recruiting a team of dynamic young people to help grow our company “Young, Black and Successful”. We are a vibrant brand that is run by young African-Caribbean for African-Caribbean, and are in search of like-minded, driven individuals who want to help drive the company forward.

VACANCIES:

(Editorial Team) Contributing Writers x 5 (Write weekly columns for our blog/website) (Current Affairs, Entertainment, Public Engagement, Inspiration, Thought pieces, What’s going on in YBS)
Events Manager (Work on our Events line, developing ideas and bringing them to life)
Campus Rep (Represent YBS at your University, College or School by becoming a rep – You receive free training and entry to events as well as other perks)
Community Engagement Manager (Managing YBS’ engagement with various community stakeholders including faith groups, community groups and organisations)

INTERESTED:

Send in your CV and a cover letter detailing why you would like to join YBS and why you would be an amazing addition to the team specifying the position you’re applying for (No more than 200 words). If you are applying for an Editorial Role, please also submit any written articles, blogs or previous pieces of work you have done.

Email: info@ybsgroup.co.uk

Phone: 07534717132

We look forward to hearing from you…

www.ybsgroup.co.uk

@ybsgroup #ybsteam

#RateMePlz LIVE Showcase & Networking Party

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 12:27:11 +0100

CALLING ALL SINGERS, SONGWRITERS, RAPPERS, PRODUCERS and ALL MUSIC AND MEDIA ENTHUSIASTS!

After the huge success of her first event, Remel London is back again with the show for anyone with an interest in music, RateMePlz.

#RateMePlz Live will be kicking off with the summer edition on Wednesday 1st August at The Queen of Hoxton from 7.30pm until late!

This is the perfect event for you to enjoy a night of music and entertainment but also take part in the ULTIMATE NETWORKING EXPERIENCE.

With perfomances from Shakka, YJ, A.L, Whitney Williams, K’More and Showa Sho, this night is one NOT to be missed.

Not only is this a platform to showcase unsigned UK talent, the event doubles as a networking party.

As well as performances, the night brings guest speakers:

ALEX ‘TWIN B’ BOATENG – Consultant and product manager at Island records

ZEON RICHARDS- Managing Director at XYZEE music

JADE RICHARDSON – Founder of I LUV LIVE and A& R at Virgin records

You can take part in the show’s Open Mic session. Just turn up, sign up and get rated.

BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARDS, CD’s, FLYERs and NETWORK!

HOSTED BY REMEL LONDON

Entry Fee: £5 on guestlist, £7 on the door.

Greek Olympian expelled over racist Tweet.

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 15:55:25 +0100

Voula Papachristou has been expelled from the Olympic games due to a Tweet that was deemed as racist. The Olympian who was in the UK in order to compete in next weeks games, made a tweet which was translated by the website Keep Talking Greece:

“With so many Africans in Greece… At least the West Nile mosquitoes will eat home made food!!!”

It was this tweet that has now cost her her place in the Greek Olympic Team, according to the Associated Press. A statement for the Greek committee said the 23-year-old had “showed no respect for the basic Olympian value”.

She however made an apology over the “unfortunate and tasteless joke” to her team, her country as well as her family and coach.

Her full apology reads:

I would like to express my heartfelt apologies for the unfortunate and tasteless joke I published on my personal Twitter account. I am very sorry and ashamed for the negative responses I triggered, since I never wanted to offend anyone, or to encroach human rights.

My dream is connected to the Olympic Games and I could not possibly participate if I did not respect their values. Therefore, I could never believe in discrimination between human beings and races.

I would like to apologize to all my friends and fellow athletes, who I may have insulted or shamed, the National Team, as well as the people and companies who support my athletic career. Finally, I would like to apologize to my coach and my family.

Her coach, George Pomaski, said the punishment was too harsh as she had already apologised.

The BBC reported that Greece generally has been experiencing a sharp rise in racism, with the popularity of right-wing parties soaring which was placing the current government under pressure to crack down on racism in all areas, including sport.

Young, Black, and Successful founding Managing Director, Richard Kuti, Announces He is Stepping Down

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:22:57 +0100

After 2 and half years, over 20 events, 7000 young people and over 70 team members with 23 jobs or forms of employment secured, Richard Kuti announced yesterday at the YBS Lounge that he will be stepping down as the company’s Managing Director.

Richard has run YBS on a voluntary basis since its inception, mentoring over 70 of the team’s young people in the process. Richard will still support YBS as a nonexecutive Director and mentor the young people that come on board

“Thank you to everybody that has helped me throughout this journey. I wanted a new generation to take on the vision and inspire the youth coming up,” Richard gushed. “It is a brighter future & I am happy to hand over the baton.”

The position will be assumed by current YBS Director of Operations, Femi Awoyemi, whose track record and work ethic in the company is beyond commendable!

“I am humbled and honoured and very thankful to be given such a position, to be able to inspire and motivate more young people,” Femi said regarding his new role. “The aim is to further engage & make the dreams and goals tangible.”

Femi’s previous role involved co-ordinating the efforts of the Community Engagement team and overseeing the overall objectives of YBS.

He teaches and mentors up to 30 young aspiring actors, is a member of Immediate Theatre Youth Board, whilst also being a prominent constituent of Transport for London [TFL] Youth Board, as well as Student Ambassador at London South Bank University.

Ghana's President, Atta Mills, Passes Away

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 23:32:00 +0100

Ghana’s president, John Atta Mills, 68, passed away this afternoon in a hospital in the capital of Accra, after losing a battle with throat cancer.

His office stated that he died shortly after going into hospital and receiving treatment, they said:

“It is with a heavy heart… that we announce the sudden and untimely death of the president of the Republic of Ghana.”

There were concerns about the president’s illness. however he claimed he was fine and expected to seek re-election in the December polls.

The president recently returned from the US after a hospital visit regarding his condition. It has been rumoured that the leader was experiencing pains on Monday evening, after which his condition deteriorated.

Mr Atta Mills has been ruling Ghana since 2009 and was vice-president to past Ghanaian ruler, Jerry Rawlings, from 1997 to January 2001. Vice-president John Dramani Mahama has now replaced Mr Atta Mills.

Source: BBC News

Doreen Lawrence Carries Olympic Torch

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 22:01:00 +0100

Doreen Lawrence, 59, the mother of Stephen Lawrence who died as a result of a racist attack in 1993, carried the Olympic Torch through Deptford in South-East London.

Doreen was seen running past cheering crowds at 7.46am. She ran to the learning and development centre that was set up by Doreen and her husband Neville in memory of Stephen Lawrence. Doreen told the Evening Standard:

“Today I carried the torch for Stephen, for mothers who have gone through what I have gone though, and for all the young people who have suffered, especially through racism.”

Doreen passed the torch to Young Mayor of London Keiran Lang, 16, who was chosen to represent the borough.

“I chose Kieran because he is almost the same age that Stephen was and I think it is important to have a young person take over from me,” she said.

Today marked the 66th Day of the Olympic Torch tour of Britain, other torch bearers included Venus Williams, Andy Murray, former Captain of the Starship Enterprise and an EastEnder.

Dionne Reid Interview

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 14:49:40 +0100

Injecting a new era of soul into the UK, Dionne Reid is one of the hottest soul singers around. Her unique style has led to her performing at popular festivals such as Glastonbury and Love Box in addition to being named BBC 1Xtra artist of the week. With her new E.P. S.M.I.L.E out, it is an exciting time for Dionne and we are proud to have her headlining at our very own YBS Lounge.

How would you describe your sound?

Hmmm… Indie reggae with a soulful tone

How did you get into singing and song writing?

Singing was always a release for me there was always a song to match how I was feeling,I initially put pen to paper just to organize and make sense of my feelings and thoughts but found it so amazing that someone from the other side of the world could write something so personal but so relatable to soo many people.

Who is your musical inspiration?

Lauryn Hill

Where do you get your inspiration from to write songs?

I draw inspiration from absolutely everything from my dry knee caps to a fallen leaf. With the Smile EP it was more about taking understanding from past encounters and making decisions to make my future better. This world is forever changing so there are so many things to take value from, I’m excited about learning, growing, living and being able to put that into a song =).

What is your favourite song out right now?

Climb on board -Labrinth thats my getting ready song lol.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

(This changes everytime) Beres Hammond,Ms Dynamite, Lemar and Missy Elliot.

What has been the best moment of your career so far?

My E.P launch and being asked to perform at Glastonbury were both truly humbling experiences.

What can people expect from you this year?

Hard work!!! and Smiles.

The Voice Newspaper Update

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 14:40:38 +0100

The power of the people has proven to be effective this time around as the British Olympic Association have decided to allow The Voice press accreditation to report directly from the Olympic stadium.

This decision comes after a backlash from many:including Labour MPs David Lammy and Chukka Umunna, Jamaica’s high commissioner, Aloun Assamba, Mayor of London Borris Johnson and activist Zita Holbourne who started a petition which attracted 750 signatures.

The Voice Newspaper Denied Access to the Olympics Stadium

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 23:53:00 +0100

The Voice which is the biggest black newspaper in the UK has been prevented from accessing the Olympic Stadium by the British Olympic Association (BOA).

There has been a considerable amount of outrage, particularly with the number of black athletes that are participating in the Olympics and the emphasis on a cosmopolitan Britain in the promotion of the games.

Upon submission of its application for accreditation, The Voice was told in a letter from the BOA:

“The extraordinary interest and demand from UK media saw the British Olympic Association (BOA) receive more than 3,000 requests for the approximately 400 accreditations available.”

“After careful consideration by the Media Accreditation Committee, we regret to inform you that your application for accreditation for the London 2012 Olympic Games has been unsuccessful.”

“Should we be in the fortunate position to receive additional accreditations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the Games near or if any granted accreditations are returned, we will reallocate them to applicants on our waiting list. You will automatically be put on this list.”

This has come as a shock to ‘Britain’s Best Black Newspaper’ who will be celebrating it’s 30th Anniversary in August 2012.

There is a current petition for the British Olympic Association to grant accreditation and issue an apology to the newspaper. The Voice has recently received support from Shadow Olympic Secretary Tessa Jowell.

Details for the petition can be found here:http://www.change.org/petitions/give-the-voice-media-accreditation-for-london-2012-olympics?utm_campaign=en_gbr_gen&utm_content=petition&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=social_media&utm_term=voice_

Source: www.change.org

YBS LOUNGE IS BACK!

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 22:56:30 +0100

After much anticipation the YBS Lounge, a showcase filled with live music, spoken word, comedy and entertainment by London’s young and upcoming underground artists is finally back on July 25th 2012 at the trendy venue, Dingwalls in Camden.

Young Black and Successful presents the one and only meaningful showcase celebrating the achievement of BME Youth, encouraging and inspiring, concentrating on their talent and potential and creating a platform for positive press - the change we need to see.

The show will be hosted by the amazing Remel London (Westide FM). Acts include Dionne Reid , Mo the Comedian, GREEdS and many more!

After the success of the first jam packed YBS Lounge last year, described by Urban Development as “a success that showcased home-grown talent” this year’s YBS Lounge is expected to be a even bigger celebration as the company is officially re-launching in the month of July.

Expect a night consisting of a mix of relaxed environments bursting with energy, culture and entertainment for hip and urban Londoners as well as those who have come to have a fun night out. This event draws a diverse audience which is welcoming and inclusive.

YBS aims to reach out to even more youth and young adults from African and Caribbean backgrounds in order to create a strong positive impact in industries across the board from law to arts empowering and inspiring, as well as giving youth a jumpstart for social mobility. There is no doubt that for anyone in support of this cause cannot miss this show.

Ten Young African Millionaires To Watch

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 21:04:14 +0100

There’s no money like young money.

While African millionaires and billionaires like Onsi Sawiris, Raymond Ackerman, Aliko Dangote and Deinde Fernandez may have more money than most of us can ever dream of, there’s one thing they can never buy: Youth. Even money has its limits.

But there are a handful of young Africans in their 20s and 30s who have built businesses and amassed enviable million-dollar fortunes. Call them million-dollar babies. While some are corporate animals; others are empire builders- like Ladi Delano, the restless 30 year-old Nigerian entrepreneur who founded Solid XS, a hugely successful premium Vodka business in China when he was barely 23 years old. He subsequently flipped his vodka company for millions of dollars. Today, he is a co-founder and CEO of Bakrie Delano Africa, a $1 billion investment vehicle committed to making acquisitions in Nigeria’s mining, energy and agriculture sectors.

There are thousands of young and immensely successful entrepreneurs across the African continent. There’s a growing number of Africans aged 40 and under who are legitimately amassing multi-million dollar fortunes. They don’t inherit stuff; they build it themselves.

Read the rest of this inspiring article at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/mfonobongnsehe/2012/07/11/ten-young-african-millionaires-to-watch/

Source: www.forbes.com

University Applications Decline by 8.9%

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:17:37 +0100

New data shows that the number of UK students applying for university has significantly declined by 8.9% since last year.

Applications decreased by two per cent in Scotland, three per cent in Wales and five per cent in Northern Ireland.

The decline has been linked to the rise in tuition fees to £9000 per year leading to a fall of approximately 50,000 applications since last year. The figures are the second highest on record and are the largest since 2006 when the tuition fees increased.

Universities minister, David Willets told The Metro:

‘This will still be a competitive year like any other as long as people continue to understand that University remains a good long-term investment for their future.’

The tuition fees were expected to lead to a fall in applications by students from poorer backgrounds, however the fall in these were minimal, the largest decline was found in students based in more affluent areas.

Nicola Daindridge of Universities UK also told The Metro: ‘This government can talk all it likes about improving social mobility. But how will erecting punitive financial barriers help our best and brightest get on?’

Source:The Metro

John Terry trial begins

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 17:46:45 +0100

Chelsea captain John Terry went on trial at 10am today accused of racially abusing fellow footballer Anton Ferdinand.

Above: Terry arrives at court. (The Telegraph)

Terry, 31, was charged with a racially-aggravated public order offence after allegedly shouting an offensive comment at Ferdinand during a Premier League match on October 23 last year.

His trial was delayed until after the Euro 2012 championships after District Judge Howard Riddle heard that a number of other Chelsea players would not be able to appear as witnesses until the end of the football season.

Duncan Penny, prosecuting told the court Terry had directed racially offensive language towards his opponent after the pair clashed in the 85th minute of the West London derby.

He claimed Terry had reacted after Ferdinand taunted him over well-publicised claims that he had conducted an affair with former team-mate Wayne Bridge’s partner.

Terry, 31, is accused of calling Ferdinand a “f****** black c***” in front of a television audience of 2 million people.

He has denied the allegations and claims he used the phrase in an ironic way after believing Mr Ferdinand had accused him of making a racist remark on the pitch.

Mr Ferdinand said when he had realised what had been said on the pitch he had found it very “hurtful”.

Mr Ferdinand admitted that had he heard the remarks on the pitch there may have been an “altercation”, but instead he had discussed the matter with Terry in the dressing room after the game and had even shook hands.

He told the court: “When someone calls you a c***, that is one thing but when they bring your colour into it, it takes it to another level and it’s very hurtful.”

Above: The two players clash at Loftus Road (The Telegraph)

Terry faces a maximum fine of £2,500 if convicted.

The trial continues.

Usher's son declared "brain dead"

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 17:22:51 +0100

Above: Usher and stepson Kyle. (Getty)

Usher’s stepson, Kyle Glover is said to be in critical condition after being struck on the head by a jet ski this past weekend.

The 11-year-old was sitting in an inner tube on Lake Lanier when the incident occurred.

According to Department of Natural Resources Sergeant Mike Burgamy, he was reportedly struck in the head and was knocked unconscious.

The R&B singer’s son isn’t the only one injured as he was with a 15-year-old female friend who also suffered serious injuries.

Both children were immediately airlifted to Children’s Healthcare at Egelston Hospital in Atlanta.

Kyle had no brain activity when he arrived at the hospital and was declared “brain dead”. He is still on life-support.

The cause of this incident is unknown. The investigation could take months to complete as officials seek to recreate the accident using special computer programs to determine the details.

Usher’s celebrity friends have taken to social networking sites in order to raise awareness and prayers for his family.

“Everyone PLEASE pray for Usher and Tameka’s son! This is the time they really need your prayers,” singer Fantasia tweeted Saturday.

The investigation continues and based on the results, Usher could choose to press charges over the incident.

George the Poet

Sat, 07 Jul 2012 15:44:09 +0100

Fresh off of being named one of the UK’s top ten black students. George Mpanga better known as George The Poet is a twenty-one year old up and coming spoken word artist who is definitely turning heads with his politically conscious, yet gritty poems. Hailing from North West London, George has a degree in Sociology, Politics and Psychology from Cambridge University and has recently won The Stake competition established by Channel 4 and Barclays Bank, to help young people fund business ideas which positively engage the community. With the money he won, George has set up a series of poetry workshops to help young people.

We caught up with George to see what makes him Young Black and Successful.

What fuelled your interest in poetry?

I just wanted to talk to people. I started off as a rapper and found that the music detracted from what I was saying, so I became a poet.

What made you want to start a spoken word workshop and how have you found it so far?

I wanted a way of influencing young people, they tend to be a lot smarter than people think. I set it up by applying for funding from Channel 4 and Barclays Bank and have found it amazing so far.

What do you think about the current poetry scene in the UK?

It’s growing, a lot of poets are coming out of the woodworks, however I have really been influenced by rappers such as Ghetts.

What have been the highs and lows of your career so far?

The highs have been when people talk to me and say that I have made a difference to their perspective. The lows have been finding out about the business aspects.

What barriers have been in your way and how have you overcome them?

The biggest barrier I have had to deal with is the attitude of some people I have regarded as brothers, who have really messed up my impression of family.

Do you ever get stage fright?

(laughs) I get butterflies.

Are there any poets that you are currently inspired by?

I am currently inspired by a poet called Black Ice.

What plans do you have for the future?

I want to branch into the music world a bit more, have more of a commercial presence and basically change the world.

What advice would you give to an aspiring poet?

It is important to know yourself, have a good idea of who you are and what you want to show.

What do you think is the key to success?

Believe in yourself and be your own best.