The JAGS Foundation Gala

Hoping you’re well and having an enjoyable week so far. Moving away from the arts for a minute, I would like to draw your attention to the continued efforts of the JAGS Foundation based in London. Over the last couple of years I’ve befriended its CEO Tracy Ford, who is a strong, persistant and determined individual I’ve come to admire and respect.

It has been 10 years since Tracey’s son, James Andre Smartt Ford, was fatally shot in Streatham ice skating rink. Since then JAGS was born, an acronym of his name, to campaign in reducing youth on youth violence on the streets of London. Since its start, JAGS has reached thousands with its message, from conferences to schools to universities to workshops. The organisation has campaigned in a number of youth violence specialisms, such as restorative justice, joint enterprise, female offending and supporting families of lost lives. JAGS has won multiple awards for its efforts and continues to support, educate and empower those affected by youth violence. The JAGS Foundation has its Gala Dinner at London’s City Hall on Friday 17th November and invites you to attend. If you are in London in November  please join us for a night of inspiration where friends and supporters will come together  to help mark the 10th Anniversary of what has become a catalyst organisation of change for young people in London.

For further information please visit http://www.jagsfoundation.org/

 

Life- Let’s Put it into Perspective

I start today in a reflective mood with a very heavy heart, knowing fellow artist Jon Daniel, who I featured on the page and my blog, has passed away. I didn’t know Jon very well, and met him by chance but his positively warm, personable and genuine energy was clear to see, not to mention his talent and appreciation of the arts. It is a sad loss but he will no doubt be remembered and appreciated, particularly by all who were fortunate to meet him.

His passing also reinforces something we all know and need to remember- life is short and precious so pursue your dreams, create lasting memories and live it well! Life certainly is for living and not just surviving.  Pursue your dreams and don’t put ambitions on hold. You’ve been given imagination for a reason so combine it with action and activity. Wishing you all a happy, healthy and enjoyable weekend. Make it count!

 

Welcome October!

The start of another month which will see me being creative and producing new work. October is already full of disturbing news, from further indications of ethnic cleansing to people being deprived the right  to vote. A sign of the times and indicator of necessary change? My thoughts extend to those effected by last night’s Vegas shootings, as well of those still quietly suffering the aftermath of hurricanes and earthquakes, away from the eyes of this week’s media. This year’s tragedies only show the importance of the relationships, lifestyles and values that make our lives; they are things we too often take for granted. Start your week as you mean to go on, enjoying it to the maximum, celebrating it with those who unquestionably count and capitalising on the opportunities life provides. Life is a one time offer so use it well!