POOW Blog.

This week for Episode 41 we have Helena Wykes-Dart a professional in the Child Safeguarding and Child Exploitation space.
After Helena was a victim of child exploitation she has devoted her career to preventing children from being exploited.
In this episode we talk about child exploitation, county lines and local lines, how local authorities in the UK deal with safeguarding children and the reality of the field, the public are not aware of.
Full episode is available on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ejQ5UG5N
and Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eN3PVubf

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Steve Rolls of Portsmouth Mediation Service.
After spending a career in customer service and life insurance Steve turned his attentions to the Portsmouth community and how he could make people’s lives easier by dissolving conflicts through a Restorative approach.
In this episode we talk about Restorative vs. Retributive Justice, Finding faith, the art of forgiveness and effective ways to resolve conflicts.
Also thank you George Mills for assisting as part of the University of Portsmouth work experience module.
Full episode is available on Youtube: https://lnkd.in/e5hUUiJv
And Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eRgq_ux8

This week on The What’s Going On show we have Clarke Reynolds, aka Mr. Dot, a blind braille artist based in Portsmouth.
Clarke discovered art from an early age and always set his heart on being an artist. Despite his challenges of growing up in a low socio economic background and going blind, he is a soon to be published author, an artist in residence at the Aspex Gallery, a motivational speaker and a trustee at a number of charities. Clarke is a true testament for not letting anything get in the way of your dreams. A real inspiration!
In this episode we talk about what it’s like to be blind. Being a blind artist, how society treats blind people, resilience, and having a purpose.
The Full episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e8rkxhk7
and Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eR8mZWKC

This week on The What’s Going On show we have Raj Laly, a director of Lalys Pharmacy and the JCL Group
Raj is a professional in the healthcare industry. Having grown up in pharmacies and around medicine, he found himself as a GP after he graduated. With now an extensive career in healthcare and the property industry, Raj debunks myths and lies within public healthcare.
In this episode we talk about the growing up around medicine, becoming. GP, the struggles of the NHS and Private Healthcare vs. Public Healthcare.
Full Episode 38 available on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e8sQxvyf
and Spotify: https://lnkd.in/ejyFw3a6
Like and Subscribe if you enjoy the content 🙌

This week on The What’s Going On show we have Stacey Miller a consultant in the substance misuse sector.
Stacey grew up in a family that normalised drug taking and crime and during her early teens she followed suit. However,, after she was exposed to close friends losing their lives and nearly experiencing an overdose she channeled her energy into working with the Substance misuse sector and helping people live healthier lives.
In this episode we talk about addictions, drug taking trends, the importance of sleep, the rise of ketamine and the decrease in alcohol consumption among young people.
Episode 37 is available to watch now on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eNyJv_i9
And Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eGzBVFXF

This week on The What’s Going On show we have Dominic Elton, the founder of MAYFIELD RECORDS LTD in Portsmouth.
Dom has always had a passion for music. After starting his career off as a Science Teacher and then later going into medical sales he sold up and did what he always wanted…start a record label and start a music studio. Over 10 years on Dom has just opened up his new studio in Portsmouth for grassroots musicians.
In this episode we talk about pursuing a passion, starting a music studio, playing in a band, mental health and surrounding yourself with the right people.
Full Episode 36 Available on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey5NQuTa
and Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eJFciuqw
Like and Subscribe if you enjoy the content ✌️

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Delyth Pannett the UK Country Coordinator for Days for Girls UK
Available to watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ejUDZcpQ
or
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/endUXF27
After living all over the world and taking on jobs that empower people Delyth found herself as the country coordinator in charge of increasing awareness around menstruation, and partnering with organisations globally to build sewing teams that sew menstruation pads. As well as sewing teams Delyth and partner organisations deliver menstruation awareness workshops in poverty stricken countries in an effort to dispel the myths and put an end to the taboo around the subject.
In this episode we talk about period poverty, the taboo around menstruation, why menstruation products aren’t free and giving people equal opportunities through empowerment.
Days for Girls International

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Steve Pitt, the leader of Portsmouth City Council.
You can check out Episode 34 on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gPvDma-b
Or
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gKzxV4DQ
After being involved in culture and the Portsmouth community for many years Steve found himself being appointed as the leader of the Council. With a background in theatre, and commercial business, Steve brings a fresh and forward thinking stance to Portsmouth. Stating some hard hitting truths on the current state of Portsmouth and what can be done to improve the city.
In this episode we talk about what a councillor does, where government spending should be allocated, the issues Councils face and the part people can play in making the Portsmouth Community a better place to live!

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Cindy Gilmore the founder of Bright Moon Training, Coaching and Consultancy Ltd and a professional in the domestic abuse sector for 20+ years.
Throughout Cindy’s career she has worked with both perpetrators and victims and seen how domestic abuse can affect the whole family. Over the years Cindy has supported many families experiencing domestic abuse and we take our hat off to her for her hard work.
In this episode we talk about the harsh reality of domestic abuse, common traits of perpetrators and what it takes to work in the domestic abuse sector.
Full Episode 33 is available to watch now: https://lnkd.in/eghv4VW9

This week on The What’s Going On Show we present something a little different.
Check out the short film here: https://lnkd.in/eSgSdYYc
What is going on with The What’s Going On Show?
As the show has been going for 8 months I thought it would be a fitting time to highlight the backstory and motivations of how it came to be.
PEOPLE OF OUR WORLD PRESENTS…
The What’s Going On Show – A short film

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Mark Kellett, An artist who makes pieces with the use of spray paint.
Full Episode 32 is available to watch now: https://youtu.be/NIsEc7VPlIU
Mark has experience in the art scene all the way from his school years. He has been commissioned for many of his pieces over the years across Hampshire and Portsmouth Football Club.
When Mark was young he discovered he suffered from some sort of bi-polar disorder leaving him feeling manic and experiencing episodes of mania, where he would hear voices and other things.
After Mark experienced his most recent episode of Mania, he looked into it more and is now in a place years on where he can talk about it in a hope to get other men and people with similar experiences to talk openly.
In this episode we talk about mental health, what it takes to be a full-time artist, mania, and the stigma around men talking about their emotion’s.

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Paul Cissell a psychic medium based in Portsmouth.
In this episode we talk about what a psychic medium is, telepathy, seers, the spirit world and speaking to dead people.
Paul also briefly showed us his process of communicating with spirits and it left me speechless.
You can check out the Full episode now over here: https://lnkd.in/ex_-Czy8

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Aimee Dobson of Brand Conscience Ltd~Simplifying Sustainability
In this episode we talk about work life balance, Tchoukball, grasping opportunities, and being aware of the brands we are using and their impact on the environment.
Full Episode 30! is available to watch now: https://lnkd.in/erwihh7X
Also thank you Sarah Roads for letting us use your space 🫶
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Merlin of Actually Merlin Vintage in Southsea, Portsmouth.
In this episode we talk about grime music, culture, fashion, skateboarding, the environment and the concept of style.
Full episode is out now: https://lnkd.in/e8KVJjgk

This week on The What’s Going On show we have Roni Edwards of Pamodzi Creatives CIC
In this episode we talk about empowerment, celebrating others, taking a chance on yourself, the power of a community, and being grateful for what you have.
Full episode is available to watch now: https://lnkd.in/esRyJn6s
POOW Media
Thank you SLR Marine Recruitment for letting us use your space 🙌

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Thomas Burgess of Save A Warrior UK CIC. In this episode we talk about life in the military, leaving the armed forces, ptsd, holding yourself accountable, suicide and what makes us happy.
Full episode is available to watch now: https://lnkd.in/ehYmKBEx
POOW Media

This week on the what’s going on show we have Kobbii Nyarko of Raw Fusion and Portsmouth Property Connect.
In this episode we speak about putting ideas into practice, being your authentic self and putting yourself in situations that ignite growth. We also cover plant-based living and starting a property networking group.
Full Episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eCHjijVu
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have April Gilbert of The Parenting Network
While growing up in a dysfunctional family April was exposed to domestic and psychological abuse, arguments, gaslighting, under age drinking and chaos.
In this episode we talk about having a dysfunctional family, domestic and psychological abuse, caring for the family, identity crisis, having a breakdown and building oneself up to stand up for others.
Full Episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eC9FGu9c
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Jenna Clark an accredited therapist with experience in working within probation, and with victims of human trafficking.
In recent years Jenna has discovered EMDR and the power of it in treating those with trauma.
In this episode we talk about Jenna’s shocking career and some of the things she has seen.
Covering human trafficking, exploitation, EMDR and sensitive topics some may find disturbing.
Full episode out now: https://lnkd.in/eQH3bm-9
(Ps if you are a fan of the show and wondered where it’s been…I’ve been in Guinea with URBOND filming and haven’t had internet connection in 2 weeks!…the show is back)
POOW Media

This Week on The What’s Going On Show we have Omar Lagares Mahmood of Open Ya Mouth CIC.
Omar moved around a fair bit when he was younger. With his alternative style he found himself writing poetry which started him off on his self-discovery journey. After going to a mature students college he found himself at Portsmouth University where he found the Trash Arts Community. From then Omar started hosting Open Mic events for the alternative community ranging from poetry, singing, live bands and magic acts. With his enthusiastic and charismatic demeanor he has increased the number of people who attend their monthly events and is a name in the alternative scene within Portsmouth.
In this episode we talk about fitting in, the power of self-expression, living with hydrocephalus and the strength of the Portsmouth community.
Full episode 23 out now: https://lnkd.in/e8y-_JXS

Was great to go along yesterday and film Guinea’s 66th Independence Day Celebration 🇬🇳
Grateful to be invited to such a special occasion and film the Ambassador of Guinea.
Amazing to hear what the UK and large corporations are planning to do in Guinea.
Looking forward to returning to the country next week with Ousmane Drame and the URBOND volunteers.

This Week on The What’s Going On Show we have Philip carr The Founder of Forseti Training Ltd and a life long doorman.
After working on the doors for years, Phil was exposed to his fair share of fights, violence and situations that many would dread. Phil addresses the current issue of the number defibrillator machines in venues, the lack of necessary first aid equipment for extreme bleeds and the lack of understanding, knowledge and confidence people have of First Aid.
In this episode we talk about life as a doorman, drugs, violence, saving lives and separating home life from work life
Episode 22 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/es6FbvCX

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Hannah Murray aka The Beautiful Mind Coach.
After struggling with her mental health as a young person Hannah has made it her life goal to make sure no one else is subjected to the same experiences she went through.
In this episode we talk about bullying, privilege, self love and becoming who you are meant to be.
Full Episode 21 Out Now! Keep your eyes on the YT channel for more content: https://lnkd.in/edP_Kr8w

This Week on The What’s Going On Show we have Malcolm Little The Founder and Chair of Portsmouth City of Sanctuary.
After growing up in Gosport, Malcolm wanted more out of life, he found himself joining the Military as an officer at 18 and having to grow up fast.
He then did a few tours with the Gurkhas where he had his first encounter with refugees in Hong Kong. . It wasn’t until he later rediscovered his faith he saw it as his duty to help others and provide a hub for people seeking refuge.
In this episode we talk about duty, faith, what it takes to be a good leader and being selfless.
Episode 20 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/e9gTXnuz

Last night was amazing to see the youth of Portsmouth celebrated for all they have achieved this past year.
With URBOND’s youth ambassadors presenting the event it was truly inspiring to know that there is hope for the future.
URBOND brought together youth organisations and professionals within the city to support young people and change the narrative of traditional media channels that typically highlight young people as the villains. More needs to be done to empower our youth and the Portsmouth Youth Awards did just that.
Was a privilege to have POOW Media sponsor the Creativity Award to Julia Wisniewska, well deserved!
Thank you Ousmane Drame, Ruby Plato, Martina Elgue, Aidan Law, Caleb Anderson, Joy Okechukwu, Julia Wisniewska, Julianne Jandusay, Cheska Marie Pua, Adobea Addo, Meyiwa Esther Fregene, Isabelle Laurent for putting on a great show 👏
Also special mention to everyone who presented awards 🙌
Shamila Dhana, Taylor Monk, Kirsty Robertson, Rob Milner, Rob Surrey, Richard Pearce, Jinx Prowse, Marie Amey, Brian Harpur BA FCA CTA, Laura Playfoot, Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre – Portsmouth

Was great to be able to film this interagency project for young people. Good day out and amazing to see youth organisations URBOND, Motiv8 and Pompey in the Community come together to do what’s best for the youth of Portsmouth.
Full video out now: https://lnkd.in/gXff9QRc
Bringing people together through our work is something we hold in high regard.
Get in touch if you would like to discuss a digital media project with us.
Portsmouth Mediation Service
Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and Isle of Wight

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Faz Forhad Ahmed the CEO of The Akash Restaurant in Portsmouth, a staple within the Portsmouth community.
Having been one of the longest standing curry houses in Portsmouth, Faz tells his family’s story of how the restaurant came to be and what it’s like being part of a family business.
In this episode we talk about self care, the grind, running a restaurant and the stresses of operating a businesses.
Full Episode 18 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/e3iiJ6Nj
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Lara Kynvin the Co-Founder of Hampshire & Isle Wight Speak their name suicide memorial quilt.
During lockdown Lara became ill and tried to take her own life. Lara is both down to earth and an inspiration for being so open about her story. With the memorial quilt, the aim is to create something to remember people who took their own lives.
Lara is a figure of hope for those in a dark place as she shows us that with the right drive and determination we can create a reality we are happy with.
In this episode we talk about suicide, human connection, loneliness, hope, and doing what you makes you happy.
Full episode 17 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/esvQsDEu
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Rebecca Simmons the founder of Spark Community Space.
After Becki lived what some would call a “normal life” she experienced a life changing health condition that caused her to relearn who she was, and adapt to a new way of living. Thanks to her supportive network and her fighting spirit she began to do things out of her comfort zone and push the boundaries of what was possible. The spark Community Space offers a safe space for everyone to socialise. No matter what someone’s circumstances are, they are treated equally.
With a pay what you can afford policy, Becki and her team are tackling social isolation and loneliness.
In this episode we talk about resilience, the importance of a support group, Getting out of your comfort zone, loneliness and social isolation.
Episode 16 “You weren’t meant to fit in” Out Now: https://lnkd.in/ejyCH_iS
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Bianca Brathwaite the founder of Mindset Maintenance CIC, that aims to provide people with the support needed to improve their well being and know they are not alone.
In this episode we talk about well being. the fear of death, independence, trauma and finding a purpose.
Episode 15 Out Now on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/epYRJQ-z
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Mark Gaizley the founder of Man Mind, a CIC that sets out to create a safe space and community for men to open up and be heard.
Through the use of cold water therapy and breathing techniques, the group go for a plunge in the sea every Sunday morning in Southsea, Portsmouth
In this episode we talk about loneliness, masculinity, stoicism, expressing emotions and being grounded.
Full Episode 14 on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ew2yrKtU
And
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e8kHxwRn

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Craig Hughes the founder of Chainnet Apparel, a basketball clothing brand aimed at raising the profile and culture of the sport in Portsmouth. Craig is also a basketball coach for teams around Portsmouth and Portsmouth Force Basketball Club.
After Craig experienced a period of adversity with his health he decided to dive head first into building a brand.
In this episode we talk about starting a clothing brand, basketball in Portsmouth and taking chances.
Full Episode 13 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/gKeuQUqK
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Josephine Morgan the founder of Engendering Change LTD
Jo believes that everyone should be open about their gender and sexuality. With her fiery persona, she is tackling hard to address issues.
In this episode we talk about gender, sexuality, the patriarchy, inequality and accepting change.
Episode 12 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/eGHdHiJ4
POOW Media

Been a while since this was filmed and published but I went along to a screening of the film and discussion on the future of the coast last week. This was all part of a UK Research and Innovation project led by the University of Portsmouth and University of Greenwich that aimed to “Explore the diverse views and values of communities…from our amazing coastal communities”
After being invited by Dr. Victoria Leslie to be an interviewee I was asked about my experience and relationship with Portsmouth and the coast.
You can check out the full video here: https://lnkd.in/efeEyW4q
Alec – POOW Founder

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Duke Harrison-Hunter, the founder of Ambassador 4 Change.
Duke is a motivational speaker and Football Black List winner who shares his life story with young people. Going from being someone who was addicted to drugs to someone who is viewed by many as a hero for keeping kids away from trouble, Duke has a multifaceted story.
Duke is a true embodiment of resilience. He proves that anything can be achieved with the right support and willpower.
Full Episode 11 Out Now YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eXYzNazG
POOW Media

This Week on The What’s Going On Show we have Matt Stevens the Founder of Word of Mouth World. Matt started the cypher and rap battle community in Portsmouth 6 years ago when he was being turned down by mainstream events. Matt and his team took it upon themselves to create a platform for rap artists in the city and give them the exposure and community they rightfully deserve. Matt proves that if you are not accepted, taking your own path can pay off when you have the determination.
Episode 10 Out Now on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eBHMtVHx
Check them out on IG: https://lnkd.in/emsUdftJ
POOW Media

This Week on The What’s Going On Show we have Rob Milner the Founder of Portsmouth Force Basketball Club and Neon Numbers. Rob is a serial entrepreneur. He has his hands in many pots and does a lot for the community. Rob pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved if you are good with your time.
A real, humble, approachable guy and a pleasure to talk to.
Episode 9 Out Now. YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eYTu7JrV
POOW Media

This week on The What’s Going On Show we have Dr Sarah Lewis the founder of Penal Reform Solutions and Grow Transform Belong CIC. With her early career starting in probation, she one day found herself inspired by a lecture on prisons to travel to Norway and learn about how she could apply elements of their prison model to the UK’s.
A real trailblazer, Sarah and her team work in UK prisons and others around the world to introduce a prison model that works.
Full Episode 8 Out Now: https://lnkd.in/gK_zF_tT

This week on the What’s Going On Show we have Jinx Prowse the founder of Music Fusion.
Throughout his early years Jinx was borderline homeless and never given a chance at school or by his peers. He went on to prove everyone wrong. He taught a unit of his first year degree, and later took on a failing music project that he made his own, and began to help misunderstood kids express themselves through music.
In this episode we cover what it’s like to be marginalised as a young person and turning weaknesses into strengths.
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e5P_53Nh

This week on the What’s Going on Show we have Daniel Obinkwo, an American Football player for Team GB. While being a pro athlete he is a student at the University of Portsmouth. In this episode Daniel talks about how he got into the sport 3 years ago and how he has found the transition into becoming a professional athlete. We talk about exercise, lifestyle, burnout and balancing university life with being an athlete.
Thanks to Paul Tilley and University of Portsmouth Sport for letting us film in the Ravelin Centre.
Full Episode Out Now:
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/evXUgNUu
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eSGtUBRD

This week on the What’s Going On Show we have Simon Gardiner the Co-founder of Carrington West
In this episode Simon talks about growing up in Portsmouth, how he worked out of his brother’s garage and put his house on the line to build Carrington West to be a £100m business and have over 100 employees. His story is one of determination and resilience.
Check out Simon’s Story over on
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eaWrZHN5
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eWdr8ku2

Was invited to a Sky event yesterday to hear about the latest going on with Sky Adsmart.
Did you know that POOW Media is an affiliate of Sky and can get your video on Sky tv??
Get in touch if you’re interested 📩
Thanks Lewis Swift for the invite 🙌

This week on the What’s Going On Show we have the founders of Peckham Soup Kitchen.
Having always been active members of their community, the two local legends of Southwark came together when the opportunity arose and cofounded the kitchen.
Tackling the cost of living crisis and being a shoulder the community can lean and rely on.
Full episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eFqdWjqE
(Make sure to Subscribe)
If you’re an audio listener you can check out the episode on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e7SiY4aa

This week on the What’s Going On Show we have Josh Robinson 🎤🎵 the founder of LMSUK an events and social media marketing agency.
Josh founded LMSUK with a group of mates 8 years ago (he’s only 26). The energy and professionalism of Josh shines through his work. An award winning Entrepreneur, a business owner, a leader and a public speaker, Josh does it all.
In this episode we talk about Josh’s childhood, his early career and the highs and lows of running a business while balancing uni and home life.
Josh is the real deal, and an old friend. Check out the full episode for the full story:
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ea8yF9eK
Or,
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e-J353Di

This week we have Shamila Dhana, the co-founder of @portsmouthcityofsanctuary a refugee hub based in Portsmouth, a vice president at the @britishredcross and a multi award winning humanitarian. She tells us about her childhood in Zimbabwe and how she came to the UK, went homeless and the things she has seen.
Full Video is available to watch on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Uuo09IvSc60
Give us a like and subscribe if you like the content.

Excited to announce today is the day The What’s Going On Show has launched 🎉
We kick start the project off with Ousmane Drame, the founder of URBOND.
When he was just a child, Ousmane’s mother sent him away to the UK alone to search for a better life.
Going along the lonely road Ousmane met people from all walks of life, gaining experience and knowledge on the way. Fast forward 20 years and he has now built a charity that aims to advance racial harmony and diversity for the public benefit. Based in Portsmouth and The Republic of Guinea the charity is doing a lot to give people opportunities and chances of a better future.
Watch on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eWigEYsz
Listen on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/e-9pFYTM
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