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FEBRUARY 2025 • ISSUE NO. 1963
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The ‘Worl’ Boss’ is back! Vybz Kartel proves he’s still King of Dancehall
A BOLD NEW CHAPTER
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Krept and Konan want new venture Saveways to inspire young entrepreneurs AWARD-WINNING artists, Krept and Konan have launched Saveways—the UK’s first large supermarket for Black, Asian and ethnic communities. Opening this month in Croydon, south London, the new venture reflects the duo’s roots and passion to create a business that has a lasting legacy. ›› p36
TRIO: Krept and Konan with business partner Kaysor Ali outside Saveways in Croydon
Inside THIS MONTH
The Voice says
ROUNDUP NEWSPAPER
News, views, stories & videos
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Trinidad and Tobago replaces Columbus ships with steelpan in bold rejection of colonial past
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Scholarships, struggles, and second chances: The return of BBC’s Boarders
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Making waves: Kai Hockley’s rise in the world of sailing
NBPA’s Met Police boycott demand is a wake-up call 1 senior leaders must heed 2
Reggae Origins concert marks Bob Marley’s 80th birthday
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HE National Black Police Association’s (NBPA) renewed call for the Black community to boycott joining the Metropolitan Police Service is a stark indictment of a force still riddled with institutional racism. This move underlines a painful truth: the Met remains an unsafe space for Black people despite years of promises of change. The boycott was first issued in February 2023, following the case of Charles Ekihoya, a Black officer subjected to relentless racial harassment. Nearly two years later, the NBPA’s decision to renew the call highlights the lack of meaningful reform. As NBPA President Andy George stated in our exclusive report, without genuine cultural change, it is neither safe nor feasible for Black people to join the Met or indeed other police forces around the country. The Casey Review in March 2023 exposed the Met’s toxic culture, rife with racism, misogyny, and homophobia. Yet, instead of ushering in significant reform, the force continues to fail to tackle discrimination. Black and Asian officers face disproportionate misconduct investigations, humiliation, and blocked career progression, while
This issue is 48 pages EDITOR Vic Motune E. vic.motune@thevoicemedia group.co.uk
CORPORATE AFFAIRS & COMMUNICATIONS Paula Dyke E. paula@thevoicemedia group.co.uk
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Paulette Simpson E. paulette.simpson@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Joel Campbell E. joel.campbell@thevoice mediagroup.co.uk
White officers receive seemingly lenient treatment for racist behaviour. The statistics are damning: ethnic minority officers are twice as likely as White colleagues to face misconduct allegations, while public trust in the Met has plummeted. Recruitment from Black communities remains dismal, with only a small number of applicants advancing through the system. Senior leaders, including Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, must act decisively to tackle these issues. Rowley’s refusal to acknowledge the Met as “institutionally racist” undermines progress. Reform must go beyond diversity targets; it requires transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for racism. Restructuring the Met into smaller, more accountable units, as the NBPA suggests, could dismantle entrenched leadership barriers. Lessons from Northern Ireland show how representation, combined with systemic change, can drive cultural reform. The NBPA’s boycott should act as a wake-up call. Without transformative action, the Met will perpetuate harm to both officers and the communities it serves. Senior leaders must choose: protect the status quo or create a force that truly serves and protects all. The time for change is now.
The Four Kings changed the world of British boxing forever Marcus Fakana: protest set to demand teen’s release from Dubai prison
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Historic change: Trinidad and Tobago removes Columbus’ ships from its Coat of Arms Marcus Fakana: 50,000 sign petition in support of jailed British teen in Dubai
‘Get tested, it could save your life’ – Omar’s message to Black men ‘Jamaica made me and that helped to turn my pain into purpose’
England’s first Black cricketer to reveal all Guyana concerned that Venezuela still pushing into its control oil-rich territory Reggae stars back calls for reparations for Caribbean and African nations
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FEBRUARY 2025 THE VOICE | 3
MOTHER TACKLES PREJUDICE WITH SELF-PUBLISHED CHILDREN’S BOOK
News UK BAKERY PARTNERS WITH VM FOUNDATION TO HELP SCHOOLS’ WATER STORAGE
Harmful classroom remark countered with storytelling to comfort Black children and build sense of self-confidence. By Vic Motune
“I
HATE MY skin and my hair.” These were the heartbreaking words Shirley Morgan’s fiveyear-old daughter repeatedly uttered, leaving the North Eastbased mother searching for a way to comfort her. The distress stemmed from a classmate’s cruel remark during nursery, claiming that “pink skin was better than brown skin” and using it as a reason to exclude her from playtime. For over a year, her daughter internalised this comment, eroding her self-confidence and sense of identity. Desperate to counter the damage, Morgan decided to craft a story DEBUT: Shirley Morgan that would not only reassure her child but also help her navigate “My child had future encounters with prejudice. INSPIRATION That story has now been turned into a children’s book, which Morgan recently self-published, called The Horrendous Lie. The book centres on a young girl named Elsie, whose love of playing pretend with her best friend, Sophia, is interrupted by a harmful lie that sets her on a journey of selfdiscovery and truth. Reflecting on the incident that inspired the book, Morgan said: “The Horrendous Lie came out of a conversation I had with my daughter when she was five years old. She had been expressing distress about her appearance for over a year. She would say that she hated her skin and her hair and would be very emotional about feeling different to her classmates.” Things came to a head during the lockdown when her daughter finally told her that a child at nursery had said that she couldn’t play with a friend because they had different coloured skin and that “pink skin was better than brown”. “My child had internalised that message and begun to dislike herself because of it,” the debut author explained. “I told her the story of The Horrendous Lie, explaining to her
internalised a message about skin colour and begun to dislike herself”
the reason the ideology of racial supremacy and inferiority had been created, why it isn’t true and how people should be treated and valued. I knew she would face racial comments from others in the future so I wanted to tell her the truth in a way that would make her understand why these beliefs existed in more than just one rogue person, and that the prevalence of these attitudes didn’t make them any less a lie.” Morgan, an Anglican lay minister and former journalist, said the story had a profound impact on her daughter. “The story had a massive impact on her. She went from thinking it was her difference, her hair and her skin that was the problem, and instead she began to love herself again and feel sorry for the people who still believed
DONATION: Mike Williams, centre, with students from Newell High and members of the VM Foundation
IMPORTANCE: The Horrendous Lie focuses on the story of Elsie, a young girl who plays with her best friend, Sophia, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery after confronting a harmful lie. Right, a scene from the book. the lie of racial hierarchy,” she explained. Morgan’s work joins a growing wave of children’s books created by independent Black authors, who are transforming the publishing landscape with stories that celebrate African and Caribbean heritage. For decades, traditional publishing houses largely failed to prioritise diverse voices, but this new era of independent publishing is filling a critical void.
of belonging. For Black children, who often contend with stereotypes and negative portrayals in the media, books like The Horrendous Lie provide a powerful counternarrative. While her daughter has since faced further race-related incidents, the author credits the story’s lessons with helping her respond with resilience. “Her reaction continues to be to feel sorry for the person who REPRESENTATION Campaigners for greater diversity believes the lie, rather than hatred in publishing have long argued that of herself,” she said. “I decided to write the story into representation matters, especially a book in the hope that it might for children. help other children too.” They say that seeing positive l For further details please visit depictions of cultural heritage in books can have a profound impact bangonbooks.co.uk/bookshelf/ on a child’s self-esteem and sense the-horrendous-lie
FLAKE Bake, a family-run Jamaican patty company based in Peckham, south London, has teamed up with Jamaica’s VM Foundation to provide critical water storage solutions for three schools in Jamaica. The initiative, part of the VM Foundation’s Hurricane Beryl relief efforts, aims to address water shortages affecting students’ access to safe and clean water in rural St Elizabeth. The collaboration was marked by the handover of three 1,000-gallon polyethylene water tanks during a ceremony at Newell High School. The tanks, which will benefit Lewisville High, Newell High, and Aberdeen High Schools, will serve as a reliable source of drinking water and emergency backup for water supplies. Mike Williams, owner of Flake Bake, highlighted the company’s commitment to giving back to Jamaica. “As someone who grew up in a small town in Jamaica, I understand the challenges many children face and the limited opportunities available to them,” he said. “This initiative is about empowering children to see themselves as global citizens, capable of dreaming beyond their rural communities.” Flake Bake raised £2,000 for the initiative by donating a penny from every patty
sold during a successful campaign that included sales of 80,000 patties at Aldi supermarkets and 120,000 at external events. Samantha Charles, CEO of the VM Foundation, praised the partnership as a step toward improving educational outcomes. “The lack of access to safe and clean water directly impacts our education system,” she said. “When students face the additional burdens of inadequate water supply, education can be negatively impacted.” Flake Bake’s success story is rooted in its authentic Jamaican heritage. The company was launched 12 years ago and produces over 20,000 handmade patties weekly. Last year, it gained national recognition after winning a life-changing contract to supply Aldi stores nationwide through the Channel 4 series Aldi’s Next Big Thing. Led by Mike and his father, Paul Williams, Flake Bake wowed judges with the standout flavour of their beef patties, overcoming challenges to scale production and enhance packaging. Today, the company is not only a leader in the UK’s patty market but also an advocate for social responsibility, supporting local schools and charities.
30 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025
Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE
Nothing But Truth and Light
Join the debate online voice-online.co.uk/opinion
LOVE IN A MODERN AGE Now more than ever you must trust that God’s plans for your relationships are good, even when the path seems uncertain
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AVIGATING modern relationships can feel like a daunting journey, particularly when you are committed to living by Christian values. In a world increasingly shaped by shifting norms and cultural pressures, finding, building, and maintaining love grounded in faith requires discernment, intentionality, and a deep trust in God’s guidance. Christian teachings remind us that love is more than a fleeting emotion; it is a commitment rooted in faith, action, and grace. Romans 12:9 reminds us, “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” This verse sets the foundation for understanding that authentic love reflects God’s character, rejecting superficiality and embracing what is righteous. For Christians navigating modern dating, the landscape nowadays includes dating apps and online platforms. While these tools can feel at odds with traditional notions of courtship, they can serve as opportunities when approached with intentionality and prayerful discernment. INTEGRITY Seeking a partner through such platforms is not inherently un-Christian, but it does require setting clear boundaries and maintaining integrity. Resources like Black Christian and Single: A Collection of Essays about Singleness in Britain’s Black Pentecostal Church by Marcia Dixon emphasise the importance of discerning motives, being honest about your faith journey, and ensuring that shared values form the cornerstone of any potential relationship. Online connections should ultimately lead to real-life interactions where faith can flourish in community and accountability, underscoring the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in every step. Christian principles call for relationships to prioritise mutual respect, celibacy, and spiritual growth. Ephesians 5:25 reminds us, “Husbands, love your wives,
just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This sacrificial love is a high standard that applies to all stages of relationships, from dating to marriage. It serves as a reminder that love is not about self-gratification but about selflessness and a willingness to honour one another as God’s creations. Celibacy before marriage, though often countercultural in today’s world, is a powerful act of obedience and trust in God’s design. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, “Flee from sexual immorality... You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies.” This call to purity is not about restriction but about honouring the sacredness of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Church communities play a pivotal role in fostering healthy relationships. These spaces provide an environment for meeting like-minded individuals who share your faith and values. In A Biblical View of Love & Romance, the emphasis on community as a support system echoes biblical teachings like Ephesians 4:2-3: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Whether through small groups, mentorship, or shared worship experiences, church communities can help cultivate relationships that reflect God’s love. Modern relationships often come with societal pressures
Singleness is not a waiting room for marriage but a space to deepen one’s relationship with God, pursue personal goals, and serve others
SHARED FAITH: Modern Christians face relationship pressures that can conflict with values. Overcoming them requires spiritual growth, prayer, and scriptural wisdom, says Muyiwa
that challenge Christian values. The constant stream of media narratives, peer influences, and cultural trends can make it difficult to remain steadfast in faith. Galatians 5:19-21 warns against falling into patterns of sin, listing the “acts of the flesh” that can derail spiritual and relational health. Resisting these pressures requires a commitment to spiritual growth, daily prayer, and seeking wisdom from scripture. The writings of Leon Morris in Testaments of Love remind us that love, as defined in the Bible, transcends cultural definitions and remains unshakable amidst societal shifts. Shared faith is a cornerstone of enduring relationships. The Bible teaches that spiritual unity strengthens couples, allowing them to navigate challenges with a common foundation. When both partners prioritise their relationship with God, they are better equipped to love each other selflessly and forgive each other’s imperfections. Trusting God’s timing and
will is also critical. In Romans 5:4, Paul writes, “Perseverance produces character; and character, hope.” Waiting on God for the right partner or enduring trials in an existing relationship builds resilience and faith, reminding us that His plans are always for our good. Cultural intersections further enrich the tapestry of Christian relationships, especially within Black communities in Britain. IDENTITY The dynamics of faith, heritage, and identity bring unique challenges and blessings. As highlighted in Marcia Dixon’s essays, navigating singleness and relationships in Britain’s Black Pentecostal Church involves balancing tradition with modern realities. The cultural significance of marriage and community often amplifies the pressure to conform, yet it also provides a powerful framework for support and belonging. These intersections call for
a nuanced understanding of how faith interacts with cultural expectations, allowing individuals to honour both their spiritual convictions and cultural roots. Dealing with imperfections is an inevitable part of any relationship. Love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13, is patient, kind, and forgiving. Acknowledging each other’s flaws while extending grace reflects God’s love for humanity. This is not about tolerating harmful behaviour but about practicing humility, seeking reconciliation, and relying on God’s transformative power. In Black Christian and Single, the essays capture the beauty and complexity of singleness, encouraging readers to embrace this season as an opportunity for spiritual growth and selfdiscovery. Singleness is not a waiting room for marriage but a space to deepen one’s relationship with God, pursue personal goals, and serve others. As Paul C. Brunson often emphasises in his relationship
advice, self-awareness and purpose are key to forming meaningful connections. His work highlights the importance of aligning one’s values with actions, fostering authentic relationships that reflect inner growth. Ultimately, navigating modern relationships with Christian values is about anchoring every aspect of love — whether romantic or platonic — in God’s truth. As you journey through dating, courtship, or marriage, let scripture, prayer, and faith guide your steps. Trust that God’s plans for your relationships are good, even when the path seems uncertain. By remaining faithful to His principles, you can build relationships that not only endure but thrive, reflecting the eternal love of Christ to the world. l Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE is station director at Premier Gospel radio, a TV & radio broadcaster, and principal of gospel group Muyiwa & Riversongz. You can listen to Muyiwa on http://www.premiergospel.plus
JANUARY 2025
THE VOICE | 19
48 | THE VOICE FEBRUARY 2025
Sport
JOSHUA BACKING NIGERIAN TALENT TO SUCCEED
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HILE in Nigeria for the Christmas and New Year holidays, heavyweight Anthony Joshua revealed his plans to invest in the future of boxing in his home country. He shared his ambition to establish a boxing academy in Nigeria to nurture local talent and provide aspiring boxers with the resources to turn professional. “When I retire, probably I can think of setting up an academy in Nigeria, and if anyone wants to turn professional, we can also help them,” he said. Joshua’s commitment to giving back to Nigeria highlights his desire to inspire the next generation of fighters and strengthen the country’s presence on the global boxing stage. As Joshua reflects on his career and future prospects, he continues to generate excitement in the boxing world. His potential 2025 bout with Tyson Fury could become one of the sport’s most lucrative and memorable events. However, Fury’s decision to retire has put the ‘Battle of Britain’ on hold for now. At the same time, his plans for a boxing academy in Nigeria underline his dedication to the sport and his roots. Whether it’s a clash with Fury or his role in promoting Nigerian talent, Joshua remains a key figure in shaping the future of British boxing. Fans around the world eagerly await what lies ahead for the former heavyweight champion. In addition to discussing his potential fight with Fury, Joshua also weighed in on another intriguing heavyweight contest – Efe Ajagba against Martin Bakole. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) in September ordered this bout, which will
British fighter reveals plans to establish boxing academy in his home country. By Rodney Hinds
CHALLENGE: Martin Bakole determine the next mandatory challenger for their heavyweight title. Bakole, a Congolese heavyweight, has made a strong case for his shot at the IBF title. With two impressive knockout victories over Jared Anderson and Carlos Takam, Bakole has established himself as a serious contender. His powerful
“Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. Efe is a good boxer. I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me”
performances have placed him in prime position to challenge for the championship. Initially, Bakole was expected to face Agit Kabayel, but Kabayel withdrew from the eliminator bout, paving the way for Ajagba to step in. Nigerian Ajagba, known as the ‘Nigerian Nightmare,’ has also been making waves in the boxing world. With an impressive professional record of 20 wins and just one loss, including 14 knockouts, Ajagba has earned a reputation as a rising star. His recent split-decision victory over Guido Vianello is widely regarded as one of the highlights of his career. Additionally, Ajagba claimed the WBC silver title earlier this year, further cementing his status as a top-tier contender. Joshua was enthusiastic about the prospect of the two African heavyweights clashing: “Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. It’s going to be an interesting fight. Efe is a good boxer, and obviously, I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me,” Joshua remarked with a touch of humour. As a fellow Nigerian, Joshua made it clear that he is rooting for Ajagba to defeat Bakole: “I’m backing him (to beat Bakole) because we are from the same place, and I really want to see him do well.” l Interview courtesy of
SportsBoom: https:// www.sportsboom.com/boxing/
SETBACK: Anthony Joshua was defeated by Daniel Dubois in their IBF world heavyweight title fight at Wembley Stadium last September