A platform for the Black Community in the UK
2024 in retrospect
As we draw the curtains to another eventful year, there is not doubt 2024 has given us so much to think about. It can be argued that most of what happens to us as humans is somehow connected to politicians - even though I personally believe that there is more important things in life than Downing Street or the White House. However, it’s very difficult to ignore what’s happening around us.
The war in Ukraine continues to rage on. On February 24 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine from Belarus to the north, the Russian-annexed Crimea Peninsula to the south, and its own territory to the east. The war has since killed thousands, displaced millions and destroyed entire cities. The United States and its allies remain committed to the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. It does not recognize Russia’s claims to Crimea or the other regions unlawfully annexed by Russia. Western powers and their partners have taken many steps to increase aid to Ukraine and punish Russia for its 2022 offensive. Meanwhile, the international sanctions on Russia have vastly expanded, covering much of its financial, energy, defense, and tech sectors and targeting the assets of wealthy oligarchs and other individuals. The impact of this crisis has been felt throughout the entire world due to the fluctuating oil prices.
Political events dominated 2024, but what can we expect in the new year?
Awards ceremony celebrates Teesside’s black business community
Teesside’s inaugural Black Business Community Awards & Dinner attracted a diverse and passionate gathering of business leaders, entrepreneurs and community supporters from across Teesside. The event celebrated the achievements and contributions of black-owned businesses in Teesside, showcasing the innovation, resilience and creativity that define the local black business community. Hosted at state-of-the-art venue, The Staiths at AV Dawson’s Port of Middlesbrough site, the evening saw more than 150 guests attend. The awards ceremony celebrated the incredible journeys of Black entrepreneurs across a range of sectors, from innovation and technology to creative industries and social enterprise. The event featured thought-provoking speeches from influential leaders in business and community development, including keynote addresses from Tees Valley Business Board member Imran Anwar, founder and CEO of Middlesbrough tech business Alt Labs.
Fashion designer Damilola Ayemi shares her story
My journey into fashion design began with a deep-rooted love for fashion and creativity. As a child, I was captivated by fashion shows on television and intrigued by how people used clothing to express themselves. I've always admired impeccable dress sense, which further fueled my passion for the art of design. This passion grew stronger as I got older. I vividly recall visiting a seamstress with my mom to have clothes made for special occasions. I would sketch out my own designs and describe them in detail to the tailor. While some of the dresses met my expectations, others often fell short, leaving me dissatisfied. These experiences sparked a realization: I wanted to take control of the creative process and bring my visions to life.
This desire to create unique, expressive designs that evoke a “wow” factor inspired me to pursue a career in fashion design. Today, I channel that passion into crafting pieces that not only reflect individuality but also leave lasting impressions. Living in Teesside has greatly expanded my creativity for Dazzle Me Couture.
Highlights from the Danceafrica Championships 2024 event held at Middlesbrough Town Hall
photos: // ffitzgeraldphoto
