The tannins from the body of an old wine, breathes through the beauty of this new season.

Our years have been filled with stories, and the complex dance steps of trials and triumph.

At 56 – I AM BLESSED TODAY TO OPEN MY EYES

As many men have been swallowed by the unknown valleys 

Our world is a stage of fascinating actors, dressed in the make up of designer smiles, for there is so much that lies beneath the pleasant surface.

But today is another opportunity to look within.

Today at 56 – a new dawn visited a pregnant space in my heart and planted new seeds of a fresh encounter.

At first, it felt strange, but after some time, i felt fertile- ready to drink from this new silver season .

And i keep asking – WHO AM I TODAY ?

This morning  A new door opened – the birth of a childlike celebration.

The phone calls from my elders woke me up and reminded me of my purpose on earth

For today is just not any other day 

It is the present moment wrapped in the foils of ageless blessings.

Gratitude is our greatest prayer.

Time prepares us with the option to move and make choices.

Today at 56, i am able and blessed, 

feeding from the fruits of a constant beginning 

At 56, there are at least 4 valuable life lessons that are close to my heart 

1.The Importance of being yourself and aiming to be the very best version of yourself 

The essence of life has more value and spiritual fulfilment when authenticity unfolds every day.

There can be nothing more beautiful than to be yourself and to aim to be the very best version of yourself in a changing world of distractions and peer pressure.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where the expectations, lifestyle and trends of society play a strong role in influencing people of all ages .

We live in a world where many people struggle to be themselves and are greatly influenced by the need to belong.

But do we sometimes take time to slow down and think about who we really are and what makes us tick ?

Do we take time to slow down, question ourselves and look within?

What truly makes you happy and what is the definition of success in your own world ?

Being and knowing yourself gives us clarity, it gives you the opportunity to be true to yourself based on who you are.

It is a beautiful and bold feeling of self validation.

So if you are reading this birthday message to the world right now, my message to you is to aim to be the very best version of yourself and celebrate loudly what maker you different. 

But equally, also address your shortcomings and fallts in the process 

We should never ever be in denial of our short comings 

2.  What is your purpose and your calling ? Have you been able to find it ?

From the very day that we were born – our journey through time and the chapters of life was all for a reason.

 We have a short time to spend on earth and it is part of our duty to know our purpose and calling in life . 

The realization of this vision can be a very fulfilling journey

If we listen carefully, in the beauty of quiet moments,  God speaks to us about this .

Be rest assured that this does not come easily as one of the most difficult challenges can be the ability to know oneself and ones purpose. 

Knowing your purpose and your calling gives us more fulfillment in the journey in serving mankind and playing our part in the grand scheme of things.

At 56 , i feel as if i am still growing in my purpose and calling – and I speak to God each day in the process.

I share my thoughts, i share my fears but I also try to listen and when we listen carefully, the answers are revealed.

I have been blessed to serve others, inspire others  , listen , bring people together to celebrate their stories, promote, love, give and share .

I have also make mistakes, had many challenges and had many failures.

But i also sometimes feel that i have reached a point where God now has bigger expectations from me to explore a deeper story bigger than my box . 

But, Here is a question.

1. What is your purpose?

 2.  Who are you?

 3. How well do you know yourself? 

3 NOT EVERYONE HAS THE WISDOM TO SEE AND FEEL BEYONG PERCEPTION

We are all human and we all make mistakes , there are periods in our life when we go astray and do the wrong thing, however at some point, it is our duty to take ownership of our shortcomings and imperfections and try to change our ways.

One of the greatest mistakes you can ever make in the journey of life is SELF DENIAL

However there are also times in our lives that the perception people might have of us are totally wrong and what might appear to be very obvious might actually turn out to be a total opposite.

A wise man sees and shares beyond perception . He does not make assumptions based on reading in between the lines or observing from a distance.

He has the foresight to embrace understanding by coming closer and being a part of the full picture of other people by sharing in their space.

He is also not blinded by what he hears and understands that the essence of lived and shared experiences is a deeper classroom of growth.

In life, too many people are too quick to make assumptions . It is important that we get to know people for ourselves to experience the full picture of their world, simply through sharing their space.

We should always take time to experience people and situations for ourselves for there is always more that meets the eye .

I

4 BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF TO EMBRACE YOUR FLAWS AND SHORTCOMINGS

The more we are honest with ourselves, the more we are able to come to terms with the flaws and shortcomings that hold us back from becoming better people.

It is important to look within and work on our imperfections.

Self reflection opens new doors to a sense of understanding , clarity and the urgency to improve on oneself

How often do you have a deep and honest conversation with your inner self and evaluate your dark sides that needs to be improved on?

Liking yourself also entails being honest enough to look within and address those flaws that exist in each and everyone of us

Here is a question

1. Do you know what your faults are ?
2. How do you handle constructive criticism
3. Would you describe yourself as someone with self worth in spite of your flaws ?

TODAY AT 56 – I am still reflection over some of LIFE LESSONS.

I will always be on a journey to grow, relearn, evaluate, strategize, listen and grow

I will always be WORK IN PROGRESS

But one thing is for sure- I will always be there to serve you as a friend and a family member

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY WISHES

I LOVE YOU

TONY FERNANDEZ

Dear Family and Friends 

We will be in Thailand and Cambodia in the month of September – promoting the success and true life stories of African migrants living in South East Asia .  Watch this space for upcoming interviews on our podcast as well as some great holiday packages to South East Asia .

THE TONY TOKUNBO FERNANDEZ SHOW is all about promoting the true life and success stories of African and Caribbean Achievers around the world

Kelechi Uzoho is a dynamic and culturally grounded Nigerian-born musician, community leader, and arts advocate based in the United Kingdom.

Deeply rooted in Igbo musical heritage, Kelechi has emerged as a respected voice in the UK’s African cultural scene, blending traditional highlife rhythms with gospel and Afro-fusion influences to create powerful, spiritually resonant music that speaks to both diaspora and local audiences.

He is the band leader of De Royal Live Band, a vibrant musical ensemble known for its electrifying live performances at cultural festivals, weddings, and charitable events across the UK. As a performer, and musical director, Kelechi has showcased exceptional skill in arranging traditional Igbo songs with modern instrumentation, leading his group with artistic precision and cultural authenticity. His leadership has earned the band featured performances at major gatherings such as the Ogbako Ndi Igbo UK and Ireland Iriji Festival 2024, Igbo Union Yorkshire’s End-of-Year Cultural day, and other multicultural celebrations.

In addition to his musical work, Kelechi plays a vital role in community leadership. He currently serves as Provost 1 of Igbo Union Yorkshire (IUY) and was the organisation’s Youth Leader from 2023 to 2024. Through these roles, he has helped preserve and promote Igbo culture, organise cultural events, and provide welfare support to community members. As a member of the IUY Welfare Committee, he contributes to the Union’s broader social impact efforts, particularly through his music and mentorship of younger artists.

Kelechi also holds the prestigious role of Chief Organist of the St Joseph Catholic Choir in Bradford, where he leads musical worship during monthly African Masses and collaborates with choirs across the city’s cathedrals. Working under the guidance of Director Chinedu Nevo, Kelechi has enhanced liturgical celebrations with rich African harmonies and spiritual vibrancy.

Academically, Kelechi holds a bachelor’s degree in information management technology and an MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, reflecting a strong foundation in technology alongside his artistic expertise. This unique blend allows him to explore the intersections of digital innovation and cultural preservation through music and community development.

TO CONNECT WITH KELECHI AND BOOK HIM FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT IN THE UK, CONTACT +07379972054

OR CONNECT WITH HIM ON LINKEDIN – https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kelechi-uzoho

#bradford2025 #bradford #africansinbradford #igbouk #igbounion #universityofbradford #blackachievers #westyorkshire #bradfordcity

Kelechi Uzoho is a dynamic and culturally grounded Nigerian-born musician, community leader, and arts advocate based in the United Kingdom.

Deeply rooted in Igbo musical heritage, Kelechi has emerged as a respected voice in the UK’s African cultural scene, blending traditional highlife rhythms with gospel and Afro-fusion influences to create powerful, spiritually resonant music that speaks to both diaspora and local audiences.

He is the band leader of De Royal Live Band, a vibrant musical ensemble known for its electrifying live performances at cultural festivals, weddings, and charitable events across the UK. As a performer, and musical director, Kelechi has showcased exceptional skill in arranging traditional Igbo songs with modern instrumentation, leading his group with artistic precision and cultural authenticity. His leadership has earned the band featured performances at major gatherings such as the Ogbako Ndi Igbo UK and Ireland Iriji Festival 2024, Igbo Union Yorkshire’s End-of-Year Cultural day, and other multicultural celebrations.

In addition to his musical work, Kelechi plays a vital role in community leadership. He currently serves as Provost 1 of Igbo Union Yorkshire (IUY) and was the organisation’s Youth Leader from 2023 to 2024. Through these roles, he has helped preserve and promote Igbo culture, organise cultural events, and provide welfare support to community members. As a member of the IUY Welfare Committee, he contributes to the Union’s broader social impact efforts, particularly through his music and mentorship of younger artists.

Kelechi also holds the prestigious role of Chief Organist of the St Joseph Catholic Choir in Bradford, where he leads musical worship during monthly African Masses and collaborates with choirs across the city’s cathedrals. Working under the guidance of Director Chinedu Nevo, Kelechi has enhanced liturgical celebrations with rich African harmonies and spiritual vibrancy.

Academically, Kelechi holds a bachelor’s degree in information management technology and an MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, reflecting a strong foundation in technology alongside his artistic expertise. This unique blend allows him to explore the intersections of digital innovation and cultural preservation through music and community development.

TO CONNECT WITH KELECHI AND BOOK HIM FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT IN THE UK, CONTACT +07379972054

OR CONNECT WITH HIM ON LINKEDIN – https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kelechi-uzoho

#bradford2025 #bradford #africansinbradford #igbouk #igbounion #universityofbradford #blackachievers #westyorkshire #bradfordcity

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO EFIK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION INC, USA (ENA) AND HER PRESIDENT, CHIEF ITU OTU

I’m truly grateful to the Efik National Association Inc, USA (ENA) and its wonderful president, Chief Itu Otu, for the incredible honour I received at the ENA Convention in Atlanta, Georgia.

Being named the Global Efik Cultural Ambassador means so much to me, it’s something I’ll treasure forever. This recognition isn’t just for me; it’s proof of how our culture brings people together, uplifts us, and inspires us all over the world.

I want to sincerely thank ENA’s leaders and every member for embracing my commitment to sharing Efik heritage through music, performance, and cultural expression. Your support fires up my passion to keep representing the Efik people with pride, dignity, and excellence wherever I go.

Special thanks to Chief Itu Otu, whose leadership and dedication continues to move our people forward, preserving our traditions and nurturing our identity in the diaspora.

And to everyone who made this year’s ENA Convention such a memorable success, thank you! I dedicate this honour to Chief Patrick Ekong who has influenced my love for this culture, Uncle Banks as we call him Chief Ita

Dr. Chris and all Uku mbong Ekpe. Special thanks to my Chapter President, who will not stop but constantly tells me this is a calling not just a gift Ma. Antigha Ikejiofor Dr. Rowan. Dr. Felicia Dr. Ansa Henshaw Princess Nyambi Dr. Trimnell and Capt. Ikpeme and many others

I am a son Born by Mrs. Felicia Ekeng but Raise by Many Mothers to this I say Thank you Efik Community and I shall without reservation carry on with this mandate….

With gratitude and pride,

Sir Praise Ekeng

Global Efik Cultural Ambassador

Farhana is a dedicated Financial Controller and fractional FC who also supports clients through her self-employed accountancy services. With a decade of experience in finance, she helps businesses bring clarity to their numbers and build financial confidence, whether they’re just starting out or scaling up.

A proud Muslim woman, twice-and a devoted mother to a teenager, Farhana brings a deeply personal understanding of resilience, discipline, and growth—qualities she lives by and brings into her work. She believes strongly in the power of positivity, faith, and focus to overcome life’s challenges and achieve success.

Outside of her professional life, she’s passionate about health, movement, and mindset—you’ll often find her engaging in physical exercise or connecting with new people. Farhana is committed to living a holistic, purpose-driven life, and continues to strive toward being the best version of herself every day.

#womenachievers #financialcontroller #communityachievers

Akinwale Ogundipe — Arts and Culture Strategist with a Focus on Community
Innovation and Ethical Tech

Akinwale Ogundipe is a Cultural Development Practitioner championing arts, heritage, and community innovation, with a career spanning over 20 years across Africa (Nigeria, Uganda, and Cameroon) and the United Kingdom (Bradford).

His work sits at the intersection of arts and culture, community engagement, artificial intelligence (AI), and programme management, with a strong focus on inclusive participation and cultural sustainability.

Akinwale brings a participatory and impact-driven approach to supporting creative growth, drawing on his extensive experience of developing and managing Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) systems to strengthen the visibility, voice, and value of local cultural expressions. Arts & Culture Engagement

Akinwale has played a central role in promoting cultural heritage preservation and creative sector development in both Nigeria and the UK. He was exposed to arts and culture during his days as a teenager, attending cultural festivals and community rites.

He was the president of a social-cultural student club called the Kegites club back in his undergraduate programme at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Nigeria.

He won the best club on camp award for the 1999/2000 academic year.

He currently leads strategic monitoring and evaluation efforts for The Leap Bradford CIC, a creative place-based programme in Bradford, UK, facilitating inclusive cultural participation and capacity-building among artists and communities.

He has designed and delivered initiatives such as:

Culture and Heritage week during the yearly student union week at the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Nigeria.

The Arts, Culture and Heritage Creatives Workshops in Nigerian secondary schools, which nurture young talents through cultural education, monthly activities, and
creative engagements,

Oversight and support for community-led arts initiatives under the Creative Places Partner (CPP) programme, including documenting the diversity of awardees and assessing the social impact of funded projects.

The Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme capacity development as a Master
Trainer for Community Researchers, where he supports the development of a local
cultural workforce by training and mentoring individuals to document, evaluate, and
shape arts and culture initiatives from within their communities.

Supporting cultural festivals research, such as the ongoing study into the Bradford
African Festival of Arts (BAFA), focusing on heritage preservation and intercultural
connection.
Creative programming that integrates intergenerational participation, including
storytelling sessions, truck art installations, and community heritage projects.

Volunteering & Community Leadership
Akinwale is deeply embedded in grassroots cultural development. His volunteer experiences
include:

Served as Children’s Extra Class Coordinator at his church back in Nigeria,
developing inclusive programs that introduce children to arts, culture, and storytelling.

Served as a system-strengthening volunteer with the Volunteering Bradford team,
where I designed a basic case management tool and trained programme staff.

Served as event runner and venue assistant for the Bradford Literature Festival in
2023 and 2025.

Serving as a volunteer Community researcher, master trainer, and event evaluator for
the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme.

Volunteering for a community-focused organisation like Johnson Community Support
Initiative (JCSI) to deliver arts and heritage workshops in schools, offering
mentorship and co-developing local awards and cash grants for young creatives.

Supporting several cultural workshops and festivals through logistical planning,
training, and the facilitation of feedback loops between organisers and local
participants.
These engagements reflect his commitment to cultural access, youth empowerment, and the sustainability of heritage knowledge systems.

Academic Background
Akinwale holds:
MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics from the University of
Bradford, UK
MSc in Health Management (Public Health) from the International Telematic
University UNINETTUNO, Italy
These academic foundations have enabled him to explore the interplay of emerging
technologies, health, and culture, particularly how AI can serve the public good through
culturally sensitive frameworks and ethical deployment.

Research Interests
Akinwale’s current research interest is on developing an ethical AI framework for
evaluating cultural policy and measuring the social impact of arts and cultural
programmes.

This research aims to:
 Integrate participatory evaluation methodologies that reflect the lived
experiences, voices, and values of cultural stakeholders and creative communities.
 Design trust-based and transparent AI systems that respect cultural sovereignty
and advance equity in how data is collected, analysed, and interpreted within the
arts.
 Adopt a collaborative, mixed-methods approach, co-designing AI-driven
evaluation tools with artists, cultural leaders, policymakers, and data practitioners to
ensure relevance, accountability, and community ownership.

His proposed framework seeks to balance responsibility, compliance, and creativity,
ensuring AI tools used in the sector are inclusive, non-exploitative, and capable of enhancing community well being

#universityofbradford #bradford2025 #yabatech #blackachievers

Experience the Magic of African Cinema!* 

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the *National Museum, Bradford*, as *Bradford African Festival of Arts (BAFA-2025)* presents a *showcase of 5 epic African films* that will captivate your heart and mind.

 *Date:* 14th August 2025

 *Time:* 6:00 PM

 *Venue:* National Museum, Bradford

From powerful storytelling to vibrant cultures, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the very best of African cinema — all in one night.

 *Register now and secure your spot:*

Click to register

https://my.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/0/422183

Don’t miss this celebration of African voices on screen!

#BAFA2025 #AfricanCinemaNight #BradfordEvents 

The CRID Convention 2025 is a global gathering of Cross Riverians from around the world to celebrate heritage, foster community, and drive progress for the future of Cross River State. Over three days, attendees will experience an inspiring mix of keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, cultural performances, and networking opportunities.

Event Highlights -1st–3rd August 2025 |   Birmingham, UK 10AM – 10PM Daily

• Keynote Speeches: Featuring the Nigerian High Commissioner and other thought leaders.
• Panel Discussions: Explore sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and diaspora contributions.
• Workshops: Hands-on sessions on leadership, gender inclusion, and innovation.
• Dinner Night: A glamorous evening with cultural music, CRS delicacies, awards, and entertainment.
• Fundraising Initiative: Raising $20,000 for the CRID Rural Water Project to provide clean water to communities in Cross River State.

Join us for 3 impactful days of connection, collaboration, and celebration as we highlight the diaspora’s role in the development and sustainability of Cross River State.

 Special guests include top dignitaries and international leaders!

 Register or learn more: www.crossriverdiaspora.org

 

LONG LIVE CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA  

#CRID2025 #CrossRiverDiaspora #UnityInAction 

COACH WAYNE VIP WILL BE A GUEST SPEAKER AT OUR GLOBAL SPEAKERS VIRTUAL SUMMIT ON THE 28TH OF AUGUST 2025. INFORMATION ABOUT COACH WAYNE VIP CAN BE FOUND BELOW.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO GET YOUR FREE TICKET FOR OUR GLOBAL SPEAKERS SUMMIT. DO NOY DELAY – LIMITED SPACES

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/global-speakers-summit-2025-tickets-1505783913219

ABOUT COACH WAYNE VIP

Wayne Dawson—known to many as Coach Wayne, VIP—is a sought-after speaker, moderator, and midlife men’s coach whose voice leaves a lasting impact on every stage and mic he touches. Hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, and now leading conversations nationwide from South Florida, Wayne brings over two decades of transformational leadership—from reviving Caribbean resorts to directing youth initiatives in New York City, to coaching men of color through bold life pivots. He is the Founder and CEO of VIP Transformative Living LLC and a proud honoree of Black Leaders Worldwide’s “Men to Watch 2025.”

What makes Wayne truly memorable is his magnetic blend of real-world wisdom, cultural pride, and heartfelt authenticity. Whether he’s coaching a mid-career professional through burnout, moderating a panel on youth empowerment, or mentoring through Gentlemen of The Future, Wayne shows up with warmth, clarity, and lived experience. A former Fortune 100 L&D leader, adjunct professor, and proud vegan dad of a blended family of 10, Wayne is a voice you don’t just hear—you feel.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE SUMMIT

Global Speaking Summit 2025Voices Without Borders | Impact Without Limits

On Thursday, 28th August 2025, the world tunes in—and your voice takes the stage.

The Global Speaking Summit 2025 is a high-energy, virtual gathering of bold storytellers, emerging speakers, and global thought leaders united by one mission: to speak with purpose, passion, and power.

Broadcast live online, this electrifying summit showcases the finest voices from the Purpose Driven Public Speaking program alongside guest speakers, interactive panels, and surprise spotlights from across the globe.

This is not just an event.This is your global stage.This is the moment your message goes worldwide.

 Live Online – 28th August 2025

#lifecoach #globalsummit #blackachiever #publicspeaking #internationalsummit