Category Archives: Uncategorized

WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR IN ADVANCE

Dear Family and Friends

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and HAPPY NEW YEAR in advance filled with inner peace, joy and great manifestations .

Thank you for being part of our journey this year and may great blessings continue to unfold in your life.

We have some amazing initiatives lined up in Nigeria, Thailand, Latvia and East Africa next year.

We will surely keep you posted

IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY VISITED OUR CHANNEL , VISIT IT TODAY AT www.youtube.com/user/etekatoks and SUBSCRIBE

ALSO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.myfernandez.com

ROLE MODEL OF THE WEEK , ZERIAH OTUTU – DIRECTOR OF MANCHESTERS GOT TALENT YOUTH

Hello, I am Zeriah Otutu, director of MGTY and I am also known as “Zee D Barber.”  I began learning the art of barbering at age 13, recognising early on the importance of developing a skill that would provide a legal income and pave the way for my career. Over time, barbering has become a significant part of my identity. To share my passion and expertise, I now teach young people aged 15-25, offering them unique skills not typically covered in standard college courses, including the care of Afro hair and the safe use of shavers in my own project “Skool of Barbering”

As the director of MGTY (Manchester’s Got Talent Youth), I manage the youth side of our organisation. My role at MGTY is closely connected to my work as a barber. Through barbering, I not only earn a living but also mentor and guide young people, helping them develop valuable skills and a sense of purpose. At MGTY, we engage in diverse activities to raise awareness on serious issues while creating fun and positive events and projects for the community.

We support and showcase performers such as dancers, singers, rappers, and poets through radio and stage shows, encouraging other young people to pursue legal income sources and positive contributions. Being a barber is more than just cutting hair; it involves being a counsellor and a confidant for our clients. We provide a space where they can share their thoughts and seek guidance, which is a core value I bring to my work at MGTY.

I am passionate about continuing this impactful work alongside my mum (Shar), striving to do our best for our community. I am immensely proud of how far we’ve come, bolstered by the encouragement, support, and recognition from our community, including awards and donations. I look forward to fostering more positivity with other incredible young people and collaborating with organisation’s to make a mark on the world. As our motto at MGTY says, “Together we are stronger.”

ROLE MODEL OF THE WEEK – MR PAUL OBINNA – QUALIFIED TEACHER AND LECTURER

Paul Obinna Wilson-Eme was born in 1959 of Igbo (Nigerian) and English (British) parentage in Preston, U.K. and is a qualified Teacher who has presented lectures and workshops both nationally and internationally over the last 38 years.

To better understand the historical relationship between the African & European worlds, he designed the LINEAGE TIMELINE, a scroll depicting a 9,000-year continuum, designed to expand the viewer’s comprehension of key psycho-historical happenings, both including and way past the contentious periods of Arab & European Colonization & Slavery. 

Central to his work and the Lineage Timeline design is the focus and promotion of HYSTORY* the innate, human genetic potential held by every human being. This is what Paul terms ‘Rehumanisation’, the natural healing response to the Dehumanising effects of the attack over the last two millennia on the female and feminine qualities within cultures and bicameral institutions. 

(*Hyste is Greek for Womb. HYSTORYtherefore is the “…Story from the Womb…” of the entire Human Family.)

This information is vital at what Paul terms ‘THE LINEAGE INTERFACE’ in any workplace where this extended sense of history is used to lay the foundation of becoming fully “P.C.” meaning Personal Confidence and Professional Competence on the way to World Citizenship.

WELLNESS IN DECEMBER – BY DR ESTHER SAMSON UKARIA

WELLNESS IN DECEMBER 😊🌿🥤✨

Carols, decorations, cookies, fried beef, red stews and more bills…. December comes with its craziness and you’ll probably find yourself overworked, exhausted, and frustrated by the end of the month.

Maybe these practical tips will help:

How about spending time with yourself this year relaxing at home and do some reflecting?

Rather than spending more money on expensive gifts, how about buying good quality gifts on sale or organise a small eat at my house over games? No gifts just good home cooked meals, drinks, good music and conversations.

Wear something from your closet. Do you need to sew something new this year?🤔😉

Track every expense to avoid overspending.

Please remember life goes on after the holiday season, so be good to your wallets, so you don’t cry in the new year.

Feel free to share how you’re holding up this season. 👍🏽😊

ROLE MODEL OF THE WEEK , OTIS THOMAS- MANAGING DIRECTOR OF T.A.P PROJECT . BASED IN MANCHESTER

Hi this is Otis Thomas – Managing Director T.A.P. Project. He is a father of one, an aspiring entrepreneur and an African centered progressive thinking visionary. He holds multiple positions amongst a plethora of organisations in the UK, USA and Africa.

Otis understands the importance of a quantum approach to solutions. Otis currently sits on the table of a few boards that impact our community, whilst also simultaneously creating his own tables. As a African centred social entrepreneur, Otis has made investments across the continent in countries such as Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia plus more.

He is currently studying a Masters in Management Practice with the University of Manchester to compliment his experience of 18 years in Project Management. As one of the Directors, He generates and pursues Business leads to create multiple streams of income for the company as well as taking the lead on coordinating projects and delivery.

We envision a future where TAP play an integral role within our communities creating multiple business opportunities for the next generation of young people coming up and the current crop of businesses currently operating. We will do this by raising Awareness, Promoting & Signposting.

#otisthomas #manchester #blackachievers #rolemodels

SHOP AT AFROGLOBAL ESSENTIALS BRADFORD THIS CHRISTMAS AND ENJOY FREE DELIVERY.

This Christmas, satisfy your cravings with premium native foods on your dining table!

Shop at AfroGlobal Essentials for the best prices and enjoy FREE delivery. T&C apply. 51, Godwin Street, BD1 2SH 07466153641 IG @afriglobalessentials https://maps.app.goo.gl/SJX15ukQUzt5zHMVA Kindly share to your loved ones.

FOR MORE INFORMATION , ALSO CONTACT 07466153641

#christmas #bradford #freedelivery #christmasoffers #africanfood #afrroglobal

A SUCCESSFUL AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS IN MANCHESTER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MOSS SIDE AND HULME COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

A SUCCESSFUL AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS IN MANCHESTER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MOSS SIDE & HULME COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRUST MANCHESTER

It was a pleasure to organize THE AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS IN MANCHESTER in Partnership with Moss Side & Hulme Community Development Trust Manchester on Monday the 2nd of December at The Large Conference Room Ground Floor , The Windrush Millennium Centre, 70 Alexandra Place Manchester. M16 7WD

A BIG CONGRATULATION TO THE WINNERS BELOW

1. Linford Sweeney – BLACK HISTORIAN AND LECTURER

2. Hamida Mbaga – CEO OF ALL THINGS AFRICAN

3. CORNETTA WILLAIMS WALKER – COUNSELLOR & PODCASTER

4. Shar Sangster – CO-FOUNDRR OF MANCHESTER FOT TALENT YOUTH

5. Black business Network 🛜 North West

6. Paul Obinna Wilson-Eme– AFRICAN HISTORIAN

7. Olumide Holloway -WRITER AND POET

8. Elyshia Cantrill

9. Moss side & Hulme Community development Trust

A BIG THANK YOU TO Otis Garveyite Thomas AND THE MOSS SIDE & HULME COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRUST FOR THE GREAT PARTNERSHIP AND OPPORTUNITY

THANK YOU TO MR Ismael Lea South – CEO OF THE SALAM PROJECT FOR ALSO MAKING THIS POSSIBLE.

THANK YOU TO Michael Ekpechue FOR AN AMAZING TALK

THANK YOU MANCHESTER.

THE SOUL OF ANY COMMUNITY – LIVES WITHIN THE HEART OF ITS PEOPLE- LETS CONTINE TO BE THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE IN SOCIETY .

TONY FERNANDEZ

ROLE MODEL OF THE WEEK , SHAR SANGSTER – CO-FOUNDER OF MANCHESTERS GOT TALENT YOUTH

Hello, I am Shar Sangster, the co-founder of Manchester’s Got Talent Youth (MGTY) and Manchester’s Got Talent communities.

As a fully qualified youth and community worker, I am deeply passionate about fostering positive change. I serve on the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) as part of the Independent Community Scrutiny Panel (ICSP), collaborating closely with Greater Manchester Police (GMP). Additionally,

I am a member of the Greater Manchester (GM) Racial Equality Panel, where I work on promoting equality within public sectors. My dedication to community health is reflected in my roles as a volunteer health champion, blood pressure champion, Connect champion, and Answer Cancer champion.

Furthermore, I am a qualified massage therapist. Balancing my professional commitments, I am also a proud single mother to my son, Zeriah. He is my equal partner in MGTY, managing the youth side while I focus on community engagement, and we support each other in our endeavors.

One of my proudest achievements was a 15,000-foot skydive to support Christie’s Hospital. This effort was a heartfelt tribute to a friend I lost suddenly and a way to thank Christie’s for their invaluable support.

Despite my numerous responsibilities, I manage to excel in my roles because of my passion for my work and the people I work with.

I am known for my professionalism and organisational skills, but I also bring a fun and energetic spirit to my work, whether it’s dancing, jumping around, hosting on stage, entertaining communities, or broadcasting on the radio. I am committed to making a lasting impact and look forward to continuing this journey with all of you.  

The (Sold Out) UK African/Afro Caribbean Awards (a one-of-a-kind in the UK and the Western world)

The (Sold Out) UK African/Afro Caribbean Awards (a one-of-a-kind in the UK
and the Western world)!

The UK African/Afro Caribbean Awards was recently held at the Chelsea Theatre in Central London on Sunday, November 17th, 2024.

This event was a collaborative effort from various African and Afro-Caribbean Muslim organisations to celebrate excellence, achievement, and trailblazing contributions among Black Muslims in UK communities.


The curators – Amina Adwoa Fetuga of Sunlight Life Coaching, Ismael Lea South from The Salam Project, and Jamal Sealey – dedicated themselves to orchestrating an unforgettable evening which was sponsored generously by the Aziz Foundation, the Arabica Institute, and Rabaah Publishing

The event drew a vibrant and diverse crowd, of African and Caribbean heritage
Muslims from various denominations and schools of thought.


As attendees gathered outside, the atmosphere crackled with excitement and anticipation, setting the stage for a truly special occasion.


Inside, the evening unfolded with a bustling bazaar. Stalls showcased exquisite calligraphy artefacts, unique fashion brands, and health products that catered to various interests.

Each booth was designed to entice and inform, with information stalls thoughtfully positioned in front of the main theatre hall, creating a dynamic space for exploration and connection.


Unfortunately, there was a momentary interruption when the fire alarm suddenly blared, prompting a swift evacuation of the theatre. Guests spent approximately 30 minutes outside, awaiting the all-clear, before the event could continue. Despite the brief pause, the atmosphere remained lively and engaging once proceedings resumed.

The hosts for the evening were award-winning spoken word poet and author Muneera Tanya Williams, along with Ali Kamara, a host from Islam Channel TV.

They maintained a high- energy and positive atmosphere throughout the night.


The evening included motivational talks featuring Rakin Niass, Yusuf Ramadan, Fatimah
Haneef and Jennifer Abdullah (Ziyad 4 All). There were also spoken word performances
from Creative Sekeena and Muneera Tanya Williams. Diesel brought the house down with his comedy, leaving the audience in stitches.


The future looks bright for Black Muslims of African and Afro-Caribbean descent in the UK.

THE WINNERS BELOW

  1. Philanthropist of the Year – Lizzamah Akinlade
  2. STEM Champion- Barakah Hassan (Sisters In Tech)
  3. Sports Person of the Year – Zainab Alema (Rugby Player)
  4. Academic of the Year – Sahra – Isha Muhammad-Jones (ASRA Club)
  5. Performing Artist of the Year – Muslim Belal
  6. Business Entrepreneur of the Year – Spencer Fearon
  7. Media Professional of the Year – Khaleel Muhammad
  8. Author of the Year – Sekina Yakoub
  9. Charity of the Year – Ziyad 4 All
  10. Caterer of the Year – Love’s Kitchen
  11. Community Activist of the Year – Iman Abdullah
  12. Women’s Champion of the Year – Anisah Abdullah


I can’t wait to attend next year’s event! It was filmed for the Islam Channel and will be
broadcast in the future.

    Business Entrepreneur winner, Spencer Fearon and event host Muneera Tanya Williams

    Sportsperson of the Year, Zainab Alema (Premiership Rugby Player)

    Jennifer Abdullah of Ziyad 4 All (Charity of the Year award winner)

    Guest speaker, Fatimah Haneef (youth leader & a psychotherapy doctor in training)

    Event host, Ali Kamara (Islam Channel TV & The Vibe Podcast)

    Ashley ‘Muslim Belal’ Chin (won Performing Artist of the Year on the night)

    ONCE AGAIN A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS

    ROLE MODEL FOR THE WEEK- YVONNE BETHUNE – DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE COMPANION COLLABORATIONS

    Yvonne Bethune is the visionary founder and director of Creative Companion Collaborations (The 3C’s), a Community Interest Company (CIC) in London dedicated to improving the lives of elderly, isolated, widowed individuals, and those suffering from dementia. With a deep passion for fostering social connections and promoting well-being, Yvonne has developed a wide range of services designed to empower older adults, helping them lead connected, fulfilling, and vibrant lives. Her background in community development, along with her heart for service, has been essential in creating a warm and inclusive environment where seniors can access support, engage in meaningful activities, and form lasting relationships. She believes in celebrating diversity and nurturing individual talents, ensuring every member of the community feels valued and supported.

    Under Yvonne’s leadership, The 3C’s has become a beacon of hope for those facing social isolation, offering not only resources and support but also opportunities for personal growth and creative expression. Through her dedication, Yvonne continues to inspire and empower older adults and individuals with dementia across London, ensuring they stay informed, engaged, and connected. Www.the3cs.uk