A Wonderful World

This month we celebrated International Women’s Day, within the same week we heard from a woman who faced suicidal thoughts as a consequence of being targeted by the media and press, victimised, accused of lying and admitted to feeling trapped in a system. Simultaneously, a young woman was reported missing, investigations soon revealed that she was sexually assaulted and murdered by a man when walking home. Allegations were made that it was her fault for walking home alone late after drinking, and a police officer whose responsibility is to protect has been arrested for her murder. Despite the progressions we’ve made on the treatment towards women throughout the 20 th and 21 st Century, there are still major changes yet to occur. But it shouldn’t take a tragedy in order to acknowledge them. There are many behaviours that have become the norm for women through both fear of safety and what’s taught growing up, whether it be taking the longer route home, holding keys between her finger...

                                                          HUGE HIT FOR FREELANCERS AND SELF EMPLOYED It’s no secret that the current pandemic has initiated dramatic and sudden shifts to all lives, despite the differences we may face when it comes down to personal circumstances. Throughout both the pandemic as a whole and amidst our third lockdown, our work lives have had to be considered and thousands have been majorly affected. Some businesses may have thrived, lots have struggled. Many employees have been furloughed under the ‘Furlough Scheme’ and others have shifted to ‘working from home’. One particular circle of occupations that have taken a huge hit are those who come under the definition of either ‘Self Employed’ or a ‘Freelancer.’ Those who run their own business, carry out multiple jobs for various organisations, and perhaps aren’t con...

                                                              International Women's Day (IWD) is a day that’s celebrated globally on the 8 th March , honouring the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. A time to commemorate women's achievements, raise awareness about women's equality, speak out for gender parity and fundraise for female-focused charities. Purple, green and white are the colours that mark the day. Purple signifies justice and dignity. Green symbolizes hope. White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept. The colours originated from the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908. Covid-19 has changed or stopped many things this year, but International Women’s Day continues to be remembered. Usually, the day is marked around the globe with performances,...

                                                             JW 'Creative' Development should be JW 'Essential' Development. 'Without each other, discussion and entertainment, life can feel pretty meaningless. That's why I think it's so important to be able to communicate effectively and make the most of the power of speech.' It's no secret that the Coronavirus pandemic has impacted our daily lives globally. Amongst the many shifts we've had to make and changes we've had to face, as both a collective society and individuals, we've had to restrict our contact with others. While in lockdown we're limited to our own support bubbles and for the brief time that we experienced between them, although we may have been able to rejoice in small groups, the 2m distancing rule remained. Luckily technology allows us to remain in contact with those...

  'I'm about to show you my boobs', said Lizzie. Before proceeding to display her cute crochet creations. Who doesn't love a good boob? Especially when it's a crochet one. Even more so when purchasing one helps to raise money for charity.  In the current climate, lockdown has left many of us with some time to delve into trying new things, time to experiment and freedom to explore creativity, perhaps even set up a new business. 'Lou's Boobs' is a small business set up during lockdown by the young woman Lizzie Back. Purchased via Instagram, handmade crochet boob key rings for just £7 including postage, and with every purchase 10% goes to Cancer Research UK. With a range of colours, the boob can be accustomed to fit your fancy and as a key ring,  attach to whatever you wish. Along with the boob key ring comes the backing card, on which reads a range of quotes from 'The world has gone tits up' to 'It's a bit nippy'. Amusing as well as bea...

'A little Greek restaurant, a lot of love to give.' 'Tsiakkos & Charcoal' is a Greek Restaurant situated in the heart Maida Vale. With a small exterior and curtains hanging at the front, it's like a secret to those outside what's actually behind. It's a family run restaurant that's been around for forty years and has established quite a name for itself. With it's fresh, beautiful food and caring, passionate staff, it's a stand out location. With traditional, authentic, Greek Cypriot food cooked to perfection and an intimate, cosy atmosphere, it's one to get to know if you don't know and to hold onto if you do. All the food is homemade and cooked at the front of the restaurant as you enter, and chargrilled dishes are cooked on live charcoals, dishes that have been passed through generations. It's a place of celebration, joy and warmth, a buzzing atmosphere of love and sharing conversations and connections as well as food. As it...

       'A Valentines from home can still remain a Valentines of love' Valentines Day, celebrated annually on the 14th February, is a day of expressing affection and celebrating love. It may not be the same this year whilst locked down and unable to have events or surprises booked, but it can still be a day of acknowledging and appreciating those you love. Whether you are in a relationship, single or happen to be spending this Valentines day alone, it can still be celebrated within your four walls. It doesn't just have to be a day of romantic love, but friendship and family love to. Particularly during this ongoing pandemic, a day like Valentines is a useful reminder to tell those you love that you do, to check in on those you care about and to take time to appreciate those that also care about you. A day to spread a little joy.  FOR THOSE IN A RELATIONSHIP: If you're spending this Valentines with a Valentine and you're able to see each other, there are still thi...