A new style of Alternative Investment Conference (AICON) is being held on 23rd February 2023 at RIBA in London. The event from a leading UK Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) charity, SEO London, is designed to increase access and career development for professionals from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in the alternative investment space.
Discussing the need to raise the profile of underrepresented groups in the investment careers arena, Nathalie Richards, CEO of SEO London, and host of AICON said: “To improve diversity in the finance sector, we need to showcase our brightest and best voices from underrepresented groups within the industry. At AICON, they will take centre stage, highlighting the amazing diverse talent within the industry and providing them with the expert insights and networks to further accelerate their careers.”
The conference line up will include keynote speaker Nic Humphries, executive chairman of Hg Capital, in conversation with Lynn Akashi, founding partner and chief strategy officer of Zetland Capital, in a keynote fireside chat.
SEO London alumni, Nishi Somaiya, who is now a partner and global co-head of growth equity at Goldman Sachs Asset Management, will help to inspire the next generation through her participation in an expert panel on growth equity and navigating the tech landscape. Dana Haimoff, Managing Director at JP Morgan Asset Management, will help moderate a panel on opportunities and challenges within Private Equity.
The inaugural half-day event will include expert insights from industry leaders across private equity, growth equity, credit, real estate, impact investing, emerging markets and will also provide networking opportunities within the alternative investments industry.
Nathalie continues: “It’s encouraging to have so many people signed up to attend our first AICON and I think it shows how far the industry has come in taking the diversity and inclusion agenda seriously. There is still a long way to go to make the finance sector representative of the UK population, however, we hope the conference and the talented speakers on the day will help inspire more positive changes.”
SEO London (Sponsors for Educational Opportunity Ltd) is a UK-registered charity delivering superior educational, training and mentoring support to young people from underrepresented backgrounds.
To find out more about the conference please visit www.seo-london.org/aicon-london
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After two years of absence from the Houses of Parliament due to COVID, the annual event to honour Black History Month and Diversity took place on 25th October 2021. The event, held at the House of Lords, remained true to tradition and maintained the high ideals of previous years.
Coordinator Mercy Francis together with Founders of the FredommeE.com platform, Francesca Giobbi and Bruna Leo from Brazil, hosted the event to raise awareness of their goal to create a collaborative circular economy.
Setting the tone of the international hybrid event, Founder Francesca Giobbi opened the programme by introducing the work of the FredommeE.com platform. Francesca underlined the need to bring together a network of people intent on bringing change using technology for the benefit of humanity.
“ We believe in an economy that sustains the business of entrepreneurs,consumers, philanthropists and innovative investors. We want to provide practical solutions that will support the livelihoods of women.”
Niddah Sabbagh (above), a Political Advisor from the Middle East spoke of her traumatic memories of witnessing her sisters passing brought on by instability in the region. From that time, she set on a task to build peace, prosperity and security for future generations. Niddah explained that she had attended too many summits previously that had become mere talking shops. She was determined to make a difference in 2021 and challenge the lack of gender parity in the professional and technical jobs in the Middle East.
Niddah pointed to the pressing matter of the digital revolution and how women should be ‘equipped to engage and take advantage of the opportunity.” Niddah expressed that across the Middle East, female labour participation remained low at only 24% when the global average was 47,8%. Niddah argued that the way to reduce inequality was to focus on four indicators; Educational attainment, digital and financial inclusion and legal protection.
Short term policy planning, a practice implemented by many politicians across the board, is one of the factors hindering the establishment of a circular economy. This is the view maintained by Francis Sealy, a former BBC executive who now runs his own civil society network, GlobalNet21, encouraging civil engagement.
Sealy believes that leaders need a paradigm shift away from a growth economy to a more collaborative economy. He said the recent financial and climate crises’ together with COVId 19 have made the call more urgent.
Nero Ughwujabo, congratulated the founders of the FredommeE campaign to elevate women. An advisor to 4 British Prime Ministers and former board member of the Princes Trust, Nero spoke of his concern to raise women’s education. Nero is now the chief executive of a community organisation focused on social justice. He praised the FredommeE.com’s emphasis on enterprise rather than hand outs, helping women to set up businesses.
Bruno Leo, the Technical Partner on the FredommeE.com organisation reminded the audience of the strong trading links between UK and her country Portugal. She praised UK’s tradition of freedom of choice and reiterated the FredommeE mantra of using technology to trade and create sustainable economies.
Bruno spent years observing the ‘slave’ practices of the fashion industry based in Mumbai. She witnessed trafficking and a business model that dehumanized people. She vowed to use her technical skills to bring about change and constructed algorithms that would support a circular economy, generating sustainable incomes for poorer communities.
Bernie Davies, (pictured above), knew from when she was a small girl that she was heading places. Originally from Jamaica, by way of Wales, Bernie was taught life lessons early from her mother. ‘Know yourself’ and ‘free yourself from the shackles of others’ opinions’. Her mother would say. Bernie is now a publisher, author and Tedx speaker and a leader in diversity and entrepreneurship. She has won numerous awards including, the TOP 100 Business Women in Wales, Swansea Black Icon and winner of the Excellence in Business Award. Bernie is dedicated to helping women thrive in business.
After years spent working in Africa, Sir Richard Heygate was convinced that Africa’s solutions can only come from African communities, particularly those led by women. He articulated the importance of diaspora communities and the role they play in developing African economies. He cited the example of the Zimbabwean diaspora who are responsible for transferring 10 billion dollars in remittances. These funds can be directed towards investment projects. In a country that cannot rely on formal institutions like government, banking systems and venture capitalism, communities rely on themselves to source funding. Sir Richard Heygate is involved in one such project to set up a sustainable tourism business in Zimbabwe.
‘Act on your dreams not fears’ is the philosophy of Ana Sepulveda, a campaigner for the rights of the aging populations based in Portugal. She is looking at ways to improve the longevity economy. Ana argues that ageing populations are often ignored in economic planning. Ana would like to see an age friendly society, where the concept of active ageing is promoted positively as a means of economic growth.
For more information visit ; https://cce-en.freedomee.social/
Email: [email protected]
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‘Unleash, Unlock and Impact’ was the theme of this year’s Black History Month in Parliament which was held at The Speaker’s Palace in the Halls of Westminster. Each distinguished guest, brought together by Mercy Gilbert, the Co-ordinator of the event, embodied the theme through their words, actions and legacies they are creating.
The elevated tone of the affair had already been set when all VIP guests received an invitation from the former Speaker of the House, the Rt Hon. John Bercow MP. He was expected to pop in and mingle with visitors, but as we know, other momentous events were taking place, elsewhere in Parliament.
One of the first to unleash his power on the podium was London mayoral hopeful, Shaun Bailey. Standing as a candidate for the Conservative Party, Shaun was a speaker at the 2018 Black History Month Event. His message was one of consistency, that African and Caribbean communities should not accept the status quo but challenge any kind stereotyping. The path to realising the communities’ potential, he believes, is by forming networks, raising voices and creating opportunity for one another.
Ambrose Mendy, the legendary sports promoter, had already made history by being the first black professional in his field. In his time, he worked with Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank and many more to steer their careers to sporting heights. Ambrose told many anecdotes in which he out-witted old-time promoters to push his clients to the next level. He used creative thinking to negotiate a deal with the Great Alex Ferguson to sign up his client, footballer Paul Ince to the Manchester United team. Ambrose also raised a challenge to the Olympic Authorities to hold the Games in an African Country.
Prof Imafidon, a celebrated academic and ‘generator of genius’ gave excerpts of his own determination to turn around the educational achievements of his own children and then young people in the community who had all been classed as non achievers. Prof Imafidon is critical of the education system that suppresses the genius that lies in each young person. He argues that as long as human beings can use a ‘third of their brain, they can put a man on the moon.’ He attributes his family’s academic success not to the possession of a special gene but to the process of giving ‘information, instructing and implementing’ in a way that inspires young minds to find their special gift.
On the other hand, Alfie J Careirra didn’t need anyone to tell him he was great. From an early age, Careirra knew he was destined for bigger things as he made his way out of foster homes, a life in gangs and playing to the black youth narrative. Today Careirra has found fame as a top runway model, recording artist and judge on BBC’s Talent Show ‘All Together Now’. He advised the audience to hold true to their beliefs and share their stories of hope to inspire others. ‘Greatness is whatever you make of it,’ he said and recalled a moment when he spoke in front of a stadium of 80,000 people. Something he never thought was possible given his backstory.
Sesh Sukhdeo, the author of Unlock the Collaboration Code asked the audience to consider how many doors they had pushed, opened, unlocked or pulled to get where they were. Recognised as an international speaker on many platforms including the UN, with government leaders and top scientists, Sesh’s start in life was humble and full of the challenges already highlighted by the brilliant speakers. Sesh’s mission is to bring people together by collaboration, exchanging ideas and values. He has mentored people from all walks of life and held the door open to let others step into their light. His great message to young people wanting to make an impact is to listen and then take action.
Growing up in a large Afro-Portuguese family in London, experiencing early misfortunes. Then spending time in foster care and a home with 16 young men taught Osvaldo Gomes (left) how to survive and protect himself and younger siblings. Though he found financial success as a young man, the survival skills he learnt in his early years no longer served him as he matured and tried to build relationships with others. Gomes spoke earnestly of how his selfishness destroyed his marriage and ability to act as a responsible father to his children. He had to relearn how to build relationships so he could be truly successful in all fields, including his business, as the CEO of African Portuguese Speaking Community Ltd, and engage with diverse African countries and leaders.
The same call to forge partnerships across countries and regions of the African diaspora was made by Alexandre Ifatola Dosunmu; President of Nigerian-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce & Industries and President of São Paulo racial equality Municipal Council. He raised the importance of the common heritage shared by people of African descent and called for greater cooperation educationally, economically and culturally amongst ourselves and with the African continent.
Alistair Soyode arrived on these shores with an aim to play football and nothing else. Events, however led him to an industry he had no idea about. Now the CEO of BEN TV, the television station for BAME communities, Alistair would never have pictured himself directing such a powerful organisation nor standing in front of an audience in the halls of Westminster telling his story. During the 30 years, BEN TV has been in operation, Alistair has mentored thousands of young people in the art of communications and media production. “We all depend on someone,” he said. “Look around and see who you can support. Let’s celebrate ourselves and be role models to others.”
A shout goes out to the women speakers, notably Keisha Omila, the Founder of Crown of Curls, a hair consultation business started in UK. Keisha is originally from US and made her name on the runway and big screen. She became the face of Pantene and has worked with other household names such as L’Oreal, Revlon, Cover Girl and Maybelline. As a leader, she is teaching women the importance of acceptance and self-love.
Nina Kristofferson,(above) is a name that is gaining stardom and tributes from the world of theatre. She is among a handful of successful women producers operating in the West End. Her one woman show portraying Billie Holiday keeps running and winning critical success. She keeps pushing the boundaries as an actress, professional classical singer and producer and director.
Finally, ‘Black History Month in Parliament’ would not take place were it not for the tireless efforts of Mercy Gilbert (left), the Convener of the event and member of Operation Black Vote, a Parliamentary Alumni and freelance Presenter and Journalist. Mercy created the event to honour the achievements of African and Caribbean people from all walks of life in UK. The success of the event has meant that ‘Black History Month in Parliament’ is likely to become a permanent fixture in the House of Commons and a high profile event.
Exchanging contacts, promoting business, sharing advice, supporting women, networking, work-shopping, relaxing with a pamper, making psychic connections, friendly trading, swapping marketing news, offering beauty tips , raising health awareness and well-being is everything we have come to expect and love from a Sian Murphy event.
The Founder of Stormchasers Digital, the Psychic, Health and Beauty Fairs as well as the presenter of the Women in Business Radio Show, the indefatigable Sian Murphy has added one more string to her bow. She has launched The Women in Business Big Show on August 1st at Longfield Academy, rolling all the elements she is known and loved for into one BIGGER and BETTER event.
Participants came from across the UK to experience the friendly atmosphere as well as do business. Certainly Sian attracted big sponsors including FSB, NatWest, Fluid Business Group, Google Digital Garage, Dragon Co Working and Special Guest, Kelly Tolhurst, the MP for Rochester and Strood and Minister Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department of Business, Energy Industrial strategy.
Founder of the Melange Dolls, (pictured above) who simply goes by the name of Diana, came from Manchester to set up stall and promote her range of mixed race dolls. Diana explained how she came up with the concept when looking for a birthday present for her mixed race goddaughter but couldn’t find one that reflected her features. “We believe it’s important to have dolls that are representative of all children,” she said. “..Having a doll that ‘looks like you’ will have a positive effect on a child’s confidence and self-esteem”. The collection consists of four dolls with their own name and identity and all are different sizes reinforcing the idea of inclusiveness, diversity and acceptance. Purchases of Melange Dolls can be made through the website: mailto:www.melangedolls.com : mailto:[email protected]
Colour and style marked the Chibu range of cake carriers made by Patience Nwodu (above), Certified Business Analyst, Change Project Manager and Entrepreneur. A self-confessed ‘foodie’ Patience was looking for a safe but practical way to transport food so came up with her own distinct product. The carrier has added features of being a flat pack so it’s easy to store, versatile and re-usable. What more could any foodie want? The product is aimed at the catering industry, pastry chefs, home bakers and anyone who wants to enjoy transporting their cakes stress free. For more about Chibulondon, email : [email protected], www.Chibulondon.com
At the Make It Your Business stand, members of the not for profit organisation Yvette Reinfor, Jennifer Rose and Beatrice Ntim were busy signing up new members to the initiative that supports women entrepreneurs. Founded in 2017 by Entrepreneur, Writer and Broadcaster Alison Cork, Make It Your Business is a nationwide programme encouraging women to start-up their own businesses. Through seminars, networking events and an online forum, women are encouraged to collaborate and share experiences. Much like the women running the stand. Yvette Reinfor is about to launch a training and educational consultancy and Jennifer Rose is developing a beauty app. For more on Make It Your Business visit: www.makeityourbusiness.co.uk
On the subject of training, Laura-Ann Fairclough, Director and Founder of the Training Fountain set up her company to provide bespoke training and professional development courses across the UK. Laura-Ann says she is offering a refreshing approach to training and a wider choice of delivery options that include holding the event at your business location; hiring an off-site premise or joining one of their scheduled events. Find out more about Laura-Ann Fairclough and bespoke training courses visit: www.trainingfountain.com
The Mid Kent Ladies who Latte meet every second Thursday of the month in Medway, not only to enjoy their regular coffee and chat but a chance to network at a convenient time, especially Mums. Virtual Assistant Christine Fox who manages her company Savvy Fox, likes the relaxed and supportive atmosphere and Jude Hill Speaker and Author of ‘Sadness to Sunshine’ invites entrepreneurs to take advantage of the events and presentations run by the members. Nanda Joree is a long standing member, a business owner and distributor of Forever Living Aloe Vera products. She is looking forward to presenting and taking on more speaking engagements in future. Information on Ladies who Latte can be found on: http://midkentladieswholatte.co.uk/
Leah Gamble has been providing Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and other forms of therapies in Medway for some time. A certified therapist and Life Coach, some of the issues she deals with are eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship support to name but a few. Leah says that she ‘wants people to have the skills to work through their challenges and learn how to be happy.” The range of alternative therapies means that clients have a flexible model to suit their needs. Contact Leah Gamble Hypnotherapy on: www.leahgamble.com ; email: [email protected]
Of course there were many more exhibitions, stalls and activities at the Women in Business Big Show like the expert seminars held by leading business figures which cannot be captured here. The day was rounded off with a wine and drinks session to cool off and catch up with even more visitors.
In her closing words, Sian expressed her thanks to all exhibitors, sponsors and all those who made it happen behind and in front of the scenes. She vowed to hold another event next year which she said will be even bigger and better. Judging by the first event; we can’t wait already!
For more about Sian Murphy, The Women in Business Big Show and other events visit: https://sianmurphy.com ; https://thewomeninbusinessbigshow.com ; https://handmadeandpamperfair.co.uk ; https://stormchasersdigital.com
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Charlene Cumberbatch also known as ‘Miss Hairipy’, founded her vegan hair care business out of disappointment at the lack of organic African hair care products. Like most businesses, it started out as hobby but as family and friends kept pleading for more Hairipy products, she realised she had a brand worth developing. In this journal, Charlene lets us into her day to day routine and explains the inspiration behind her fascinating name.
I got the name Hairipy by playing with words. Hairipy is a new word that is supposed to represent Hair Happy. I use a bright yellow colour in my logo and uniform to represent bright, sun-kissed hair products. I hope people associate this brand with positive feel good thoughts surrounding natural curly afro hair instead of the negative portrayals in the media that African hair is unprofessional and unruly (for more positive conversations about black beauty see https://diversitybusinesspromotes.uk/antonia-opiah/). Hairipy is here to educate and transform how natural hair is perceived.
Coffee and Catch Up
Before getting into business, I used to make natural hair and skin products at home for myself and my son. I wanted healthy products with less unnecessary harsh ingredients to apply on sensitive skin. I found this hobby fun and creative so I expanded and was soon creating products for family and friends. I was introduced to the Princes Trust and they helped me transform my hobby into a business. I still have support from my mentor from the Princes Trust whom they linked me with. We meet now and again for coffee and catch up. I share my ideas with him and he encourages me and offers suggestions.
Before I launched Hairipy I went on a few courses to learn all the necessary legal matters on retailing and manufacturing cosmetics. I learnt the correct way to list ingredients on products. I learnt that all my products need to be cosmetically tested to ensure the right amount of ingredients are used and I adhere to correct shelf life and stability. There is a lot to pick up but once you’ve learnt it, the knowledge stays with you.
On the ‘formulating the cosmetics’ course, I did some mixing and learnt about new product ideas. The course taught me the fundamental procedures and then I went and experimented adding different ingredients and trialling my new creations on my family for feedback.
Morning Comforts
Hairipy is still a home based business which means there are still a few perks I enjoy such as waking up around 6am and checking my emails, messages and notifications from the comfort of my bed. I am a sole trader and it’s not often I get assistance. The best way for me to work is to respond to queries and orders ASAP so I don’t create a backlog for myself and then have trouble clearing it.
After completing basic admin duties I get ready to start the day. My son leaves the house at around 8am so from then onwards I have no distractions. I have a glass of orange juice mixed with a tea spoon of Moringa powder every morning. I mix Moringa oil and powder in my hair & skin products to keep hair strong, shiny and healthy. It comes from a plant in Africa and it is truly wonderful. It is packed with fibre, iron, vitamins, potassium and so much more, it gives me so much energy and keeps me alert.
Off the Kitchen Table!
All my products are handmade by myself. I work in my kitchen and dining room. My dining room is completely taken over by Hairipy. It’s where I keep Hairipy equipment in drawers and shelves.
I can make a batch of 30 products within 1.5 hours. To make a batch I start by measuring out the ingredients. I use a digital scale, jugs and bowls. I use my cooker hobs to heat the ingredients to the correct temperature and then I mix and blend to form the products. Once the mixture has cooled down, I pour it into bottles and add the labels. It’s all manual labour and hard work but I enjoy it and I love producing top quality products.
The No Parabens Pledge
My products have zero to minimum chemicals and no parabens nor sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is a common foaming agent used in shampoos and cleaning products. Most people are used to having products that foam but it’s a harsh chemical that negatively effects the eco system as it’s acidic. SLS can cause harsh reactions to sensitive skin.
It can take a while to adjust from using commercial products with harsh chemicals to natural products which are so much better for the whole family. Parabens are used to preserve cosmetics so they last longer. They stop bacteria growing in water based products. A lot more cosmetic companies are being cautious about including parabens in their products. We at Hairipy products have pledged never to use parabens as there are alternative ways to preserve the products.
Beards and Best-sellers
My biggest challenge is that the natural hair care market has now become very competitive with loads of products. I pitch to businesses so that they stock my products in their shops and hairdressers. I often get turned down but I don’t let that deter me. I believe in Hairipy and that it is a good, quality product so I will continue to market it.
I have expanded into creating a men’s range which includes a beard cream that soothes the skin and moisturises beards. I have a hibiscus conditioner that helps stimulate scalp follicles to encourage hair growth. It has a protein that strengthens the hair strands and stops hair breakage.
I also created a lemongrass hair and skin balm. It smells amazing and is definitely my best seller. It deters mosquitos and other insects in hot climates and keeps the skin soft and nourished. The ingredients I use are known to have vitamins, cancer fighting properties and other health benefits. Using ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter and coconut oil which are derived from plants grown in hot climates, is much better for you than using laboratory made artificial ingredients. Natural products like Hairipy can help prevent health problems such as eczema and alopecia.
My biggest achievement is the fact that a shop called bjou bjou in Florida USA is actually stocking my products. This company has really stood by Hairipy and supported the hard work I put into it. They stock my products at their distribution centre and promote my business on their website.
Mind, Body and Soul
To relax, me and my son go to parent and child meditation classes once a week. We enjoy yoga, painting and meditation. It’s fun to be around like minded people and take time to appreciate the mind, body and soul. My son gets a weekly journal to take home and we work together completing it during the week. There is a colouring in section and a page to log how he gets on which helps him to explore his feelings.
My business is only in its second year of trading so I still work part time to sustain my standard of living. When I finish work and come home I package any orders that have come through in order to dispatch them by the next day. I use yellow mail bags to represent my business branding. By 8pm, Hairipy work is done for the day. I still get emails come through and I respond from my phone in the morning.
With hard work and support, my business will be more available around the world. I market my brand on online markets and platforms such as Diversity Business Magazine and retail outlets and hairdressers. The support on social media has been great.
I have a website: Charelene’s Hairipy where you can view my products. You can find me on facebook, twitter and instagram. I am very active online. Feel free to contact me with any questions. This business journey is new to me. I’m learning as I go along and I’ve met many like-minded entrepreneurs who are inspirational and encouraging. I look forward to our conversations.
Charlene’s Hairipy
07932910715
Take a look at our website:
http://www.charleneshairipy.co.uk/
Follow us on facebook
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Whether going out on a shoot or spending time at home preparing for the next shoot, Yves Salmon, the busy London photographer’s day starts very early, at approximately 6.30am or earlier if she has a job, ‘then I’d like to be on the road by 7.00am because you never know what the traffic is going to be like and anyway I need to unload, set up and make the most of the day on location.”
Based in East London, Yves has been working as a photographer since 1997 when she finally pursued her passion by setting herself up as an independent after working at the British Film Institute. “Many of my clients are corporate. I am frequently called to do portraits of staff members for inclusion in financial reports or brochures. I also have commissions by the Historic Royal Palaces and British Waterways to produce a series of promotional photographs. I also do portraits for press communications and work as house photographer at film festivals, parties and receptions. My portraits of actors and directors are distributed by Eyevine Picture agency.
In the past, a red carpet job has led to photographing man of the moment Steve McQueen, the Director of this year’s multi awarded film, ‘12 Years a Slave’. Yves has McQueen’s portrait on her business card – a testament to her fine portraiture skills. “He actually sat for me during the Toronto Film Festival in 2008, when he was presenting his first feature ‘Hunger’ for which he also won the 2008 Diesel Discovery Award.” Yves remembers McQueen to be very gracious and accommodating.
“I like working on projects that are people centric. I like the variety and meeting and interacting with new people. I like to be creative in presenting people in new lights.’ Asked about her dream person to portray, Yves responds that she would like to capture different
personalities ten years after they have left the limelight like photographing Obama sometime after he has left office.
“I have a list of people who I’d like to photograph. I guess they would be my ideal dinner dates ten years on after their days in the spotlight.”
On days she is not shooting, Yves works on updating her monthly newsletter which she posts on her website: www.yvessalmon.co.uk. Since she doesn’t own a studio, she might catch up on post-production of personal projects, as she says, “I have come to specialise in environmental portraiture (shooting people on location). It provides me with creative challenges to figure out how best I can present the work under sometimes restrictive conditions.”
At present Yves is enjoying having her work exhibited at the Hackney Museum, under a project partly funded by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation called ‘Side by Side: Living in Cazenove’ – Cazenove being a typical street in the borough, taken as an example of how people from all over the world live side by side in diverse Hackney. The exhibition continues until 17th May 2014.
Given her frenetic workload, does Yves ever get a moment to herself? “It depends how long I have to turnaround a job. I might work on editing to meet a deadline or upload photographs online, then I work at all times and well into the night. On evenings when I do have free time, I enjoy DIY, taking bike rides and even salsa dancing, watching movies and reading. I also collect photographic books for inspiration but usually on most non shooting days, I’m out like a light by 11pm.