For Supporting Autism Dance Day and International Dance Day Please note this article is written from my personal perspective. Although the information is mainly related to Latin dancing environments some of the examples can apply to any dancing and music environments. INTRODUCTION Dancing is a positive, expressive and active environment which everyone should be able to do without barriers. BACKGROUND I have been dancing casually for a long time and have been active in Latin-related dancing as an activity for over a decade. Also, I became a participant in these environments for nearly a decade including being a volunteer and providing positive solutions for events like Motion City, Latinmotion NYE Fest. In addition, I am regular in the local community with "Salsa with Pauline" where I'm also in charge of marketing. Back in 2022, I was honoured to be part of a community campaign for Birmingham City Council to celebrate the city's legacy since hosting the Commonwealth Games. However, there is an unpleasant barrier which not only gets in the way not only for me but for others with hidden related difficulties. This is related to perceptive prejudice, ableism and discrimination. This can occur during learning during classes or workshops, taking part in social dancing, parties, festivals and dancing conventions. As I am involved in a partner dancing environment there I have observed within recent years a greater layer of unspoken expectations. Too many times I have seen too many times with an old-fashioned expectation that unless you are an average or a quicker learner then you are not only discredited but also a negative liability to others. Though my experiences are unless you can progress your dancing through different dance levels within the average pace then you can be socially left behind. I have experienced this along with social separation which has affected my presence in these environments. Some dancing steps and movements are harder than others regardless of what dancing levels you are at at classes and workshops. Also for visual learners and those who suffer from short-term memory difficulties, it can be extra tough. This means a person needs extra time to master dance moves compared to an average person. At parties, festivals and conventions In these environments, it can be very competitive and very pressuring to survive the social environment. Especially if certain attendees are regarded as more desirable and appealing than others social as charisma, sense of humour as well and positive ratings for their dancing abilities In a dancing environment which is made of leaders & followers, the pressure is on the men. Not only do they have to be able to lead well with a follower partner who is traditionally a woman but able to memorise the dance steps which might be harder for some with hidden differences if the pace of learning can be too fast with cramming too much on what is expected to learn. At parties, festivals and conventions the pressures escalate for men to memorise a variety of dance moves which must be impressive and not boring or predictable. As a tradition of men approaching women to dance, unless a man appears confident in dancing and socially, a man can be divided and excluded which can damage a person's motivation levels and presence Changes since the pandemic Since the worldwide pandemic, I have observed a massive change in the past few years in other people's attitudes and patient levels (except for the dancing environment in local communities). I have also noticed and experienced a change of mindset that has affected the majority of the Latin dancing environment with negative implications. At classes, if you are seen struggling in classes then you are likely to be rejected not just for asking to dance but also socially. Despite my involvement in Latin dancing as an activity for a decade, I have been given an unpleasant wake-up call recently with an increasing lack of acceptance environments in the past 12 to 18 months not just dancing and socially. I've experienced being socially divided and socially engaging much less compared to others through rejections which has disrupted my dancing motivation, this has forced me to leave parties and social dancing after classes much earlier. I was made to be mentally quicker with my presence including timing when it came to dancing to partners and socially engaging with people, I would face marginalisation and low dancing motivation if I didn't follow my quicker mindset guidelines. This also occurs more often when I'm seen on my own for too long and not able to form a social circle and when I face constant rejection. In certain environments, I faced aggressive threats from male dancers who used up too much dance floor space to showcase their moves with their partners. What makes it worse, I dont have to be too close leads to receiving shouting threats from certain men in this matter. This example can damage anyone's dancing confidence. My observation of the changing social climate has damaged my ability to dance in these social environments with confidence because of constant being marginalised and excluded. However, this worsened at a New Year event into 2024 (at which I volunteered) when I recieved insulting ableist remarks against my intelligence at a dancing class. The sitauion worsened at the remainder of the rest of the event when I was constantly socially sidelined and alienated. I feel the culture of ableism and one-sided perceptions and expectations in dancing have gone too far. People need to think carefullly about the negative implications when we constantly divide others based on social vanity and perceptions at dancing envionments. Stop attending events Due to my constant negative experences, I had to take action by stop attending any latin parties and events for many months as the mentioned examples mentioned has affecting my personal life. This means I had rebuild my self-worth and confidence separately and away from dancing envionmnets. (However, I continue to attend selected classes and participate in my friend's classes in the local community). No person with hidden related difficulties should be treated like this. This is why I wrote this blog and developed several projects and suggestions documents to change the narrative and the encouragement to stop dividing hidden related difficulties from dancing and be visible. THE CONSEQUENCES If we do not pay attention to how we judge and treat others then we could have a culture of discouraging individuals with neurological difficulties (and those who experience anxiety) to dance less or not be viable in dancing environments. This means a person with difficulties is undervalued and is made to feel out of sight and out of mind. WHAT HAS TO CHANGE Attendees need to stop defining a person against their difficulties and not make quick judgments person's ability. Also event participamnts needs to be responsive to prevent and reduce negative prejudice and ableism. Don't be perceptive if you notice a person's difficulties and not exclude, marginalised to reject dancing and socialise with them. Men Attendees Don't take advantage of men with hidden difficulties by deliberately pulling a woman away they are engaging in. Also, don't be selfish with using dancing space and never be rude and aggressive to other men, related to dancing spaces. Women attendees Be more supportive and less judgemental when a male with hidden differences is present. This includes if they might be struggling in classes. Also, be less perceptive of a man's request to dance and try to be socially engaging. All attendees Some people may be more fortunate to have a social circle than others. This does not mean we should reject and exclude those who have a limited or no social circle. As mentioned not to take advantage of their presence. Teacher & event leaders Be more supportive and discourage any type of discrimination and ableism. This means intervening when necessary and encouraging attendees to change how they judge a person if they live with specific difficulties. STEPS FORWARD Attendees Be patient and encouraging at classes workshops and social parties. See a person beyond their difficulties Be welcoming and appreciating Offer help if needed, especially if the person is struggling or a situation has occurred which forced a person to pull out of a class Look out if an attendee has pulled out if they are made to pull out. It is very important not to divide a person if they are struggling to follow. If the other attendee is struggling or is avoiding certain moves as it is too much never make any type of ableist or offensive remarks against their intelligence. Teachers Always Remind all students in classes to be supportive of some classes are struggling Spend time with an attendee who may struggle Everyone Make sure to encourage others to approach to dance with those who might feel discouraged due to lack of a social circle or being made to dance much less. FINAL POINT A person with hidden differences along with other invisible disabilities should be able to dance equally without ableism, prejudice and rejection Written by Keith Mckenzie Click here to discover more about me RECOMMENDED PROJECTS (From the Plus Value Awareness website) Inclusive to dance The information with suggestions and downloadable suggestions to improve inclusivity for passionate dancers with neurodiversity, Invisible disabilities and those experiencing anxiety. Dancing inclusivity publications A series of suggestions publications (available to download) to encourage to be accommodating and more inclusive for selected neurodiverse dancers in latin dancing environments. (From this website) Dancing Direction The feature which contain a summary of my developments. projects and involvement in dancing environments USEFUL LINKS Open mind The themed feature to encourge open minds and inclusivity for neurodiverse dancers. Launched during International Dance Day and Autism Dance Day for 12 months until Mid April 2024. Embrace Dancing feature The online special is available all year round with links to dancing-related projects, information and publications INFORMATION Hidden differences are used as a collective description of independent and articulate young people and adults who live with types of difficulties that are not visually obvious. Including Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Social Anxiety. Visit the Understanding series index of the Plus Value Awareness website to explore Any type of absive or hatred remarks and comments will not be tolerated and action will taken if any inappoprate comments are made. Developed by with Keith Mckenzie with Plus Value Awareness
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I have visited "The Photography and Video show", the event which showcases photography and filming at Birmingham's NEC. In addition, it covers additional multimedia examples such as social media reels and influencer videos. As photography was part of my art and design background when I studied in Hereford and Northampton, I wanted to catch up on what I needed to know as I haven't done much camera photography since the pandemic. Presentations A presentation by Kim Grant on how she was developing a series of YouTube videos based on her passions including outdoor scenic and nature photography. Despite that she was not comfortable appearing on a video camera, she explained how her life had changed and became a major YouTube influencer within 7 years. Kim is encouraging anyone who is an introvert should not feel discouraged and should give it a go. One major reason why I was attracted to attend was to do with a series of presentation talks on using images and video social media to improve influences. I attended a presentation on this particular subject from Gavin Hoey assisted by model Chloe on transferring professional photography to video reels with tips and guidelines to increase social media engagement and audience by focusing on quality rather than Quantity. Had a nice chat with both Gavin and Chloe before & after their presentations. Posing with Gavin Hoey and Model Chloe Other presenations Keenan Lan presented how to create impactful content on social media using images and videos Gordon Glenister presented an family of ideas to grow influnce anmd personal brand. Meeting people As well as attending the presentation and receiving some advice from the different stands, I also had an opportunity to meet some great people. One of the people was an inspiring person for Birmingham. Lattie Lovett-Dunn one of the models of the event. She is also a broadcaster and social media influencer and has followed her social media journeys and work along with her husband who is also a model. Posing with Lattie Lovett-Dunn I also met initially with Simone Stocks, an event Model who appeared throughout the day in a specially themed outfit in front of a flower garden display stand & studio. Had a brief chat and she advised me to embrace photography again. Simone Stocks The importance of Photography is still strong, even though many people fear the potential obstacles such as mobile photography and Artificial Intelligence. Living in the background of Art & Design, attending this event reminds me that I need to incorporate photography into my art & design projects and as filming and a lot more. Notice to editors
Keith Mckenzie Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also are involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions twice a year at Birmingham's NEC for Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity. In 2022, Keith become a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the commonwealth games For over 6 years I have used my Awareness initiative to support International Women's Day with unique information to particularly value women with hidden differences by developing online awareness specials annually online & on social media. For the first time, I have evolved my support for International Women's Day. Not just creating online specials but also attending an International Women's Day event in person. I attended the IWD Expo which took place at Birmingham's Millennium Point. Some people have commented that it is one of the largest events in the UK for supporting this event. As well as networking and spreading the word of my Awareness initiative Plus Value Awareness I have also attended a series of presentation talks, video presentations and panel discussions. CLOSING THE GENDER DISABILITY GAP A panellist discussion on how to bridge the gap of general disability in opportunities and the workplace. The discussion covers different aspects including understanding a diagnosis of the stigma, how to improve access to training education and what steps need to be made to improve inclusivity and close and also covers aspects including how to improve access to inclusive education and what steps need to be made to improve inclusivity. One of the most notable points I heard was related to stigma including labels such as an automatic label or less capable. I can relate to this personally as a neurodivergent and through my awareness projects, I observe that some men with disabilities can relate to this example, especially in a perceptive, demanding and judgmental society. This discussion includes the voices of Georgia Bondy - Founder and CEO at Well Adapt, Jessica Hobbis - Strategy & Partnerships Manager at ScreenMe, Estella Edwards, Founder of Rise Foundation FILM PRESENTATION "She" is a special film presentation that was shown and was introduced by Keisha Grant Choreographer & Creative Director Keisha Grant who is the director. It features a team of women performing a variety of creative dancing which goes through different levels of the emotional journey. The emphasis is centred around the empowerment of women in dancing. WOMEN IN MEDIA A panel discussion with individually individual stories was shared on their journey towards their career in the media. A lot of different aspects were mentioned including the barriers when taking time out time, being persistent in opportunities but being more job than being loyal. The discussion also addresses how since the pandemic there seems to be an increasing gap in representation of women in the media. My Question to the panelist I asked the panellists a question after the main discussion ended. On what to be done the bridge the gap of representing representation of women in the media. Some of the responses includles that there are more women managers and the increase of shortlists amount of women when it comes to opportunities. The panellist includes Anita Champaneri, Managing Director at Delicious PR along with journalists and broadcasters Marverine Cole, Suzanne Virdee and Nikki Tapper. Earlier in the day I bumped into Nikki Tapper who recognised me when I met her back in July 2022 just a few weeks before the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony of the refurbished Perry Barr train station. Attending the event was an exercise where I could listen more on how I can improve how I communicate when spreading awareness affecting women especially those with hidden differences. My awareness website presents customised projects and articles focusing on women with hidden differences. The access this online feature select a link below to the Plus Value Awareness website to explore Notice to editors
Keith Mckenzie Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also are involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions twice a year at Birmingham's NEC for Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity. In 2022, Keith become a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the commonwealth games I have made connections with the community during Neurodiversity Celebration Week I have made comments and questions when attending events and workshops. Here are some examples: My comments During the Neurodiversity workshop "In Space: Feeling the Built Environment" at the University of Birmingham a task was given on our thoughts on we we related to build environment at the same time were given an example of expressive literature on environments. I presented a viewpoint from a wider perspective. Play mentioned it does depend on certain factors including climate, how the environment is well understood, how easy is the information to navigate and how the types of people are in the same environment. I also mentioned how open spaces do not accommodate anyone to take time out not only for relaxation but to auto regroup and organise themselves. This can cause disruptive effects for a neurodiverse or a person with hidden differences where on occasions when they are on the spot for too long any time to make adjustments and reorganise themselves. Not only it could risk bringing the worst out of them it can we lead to them facing disruptive ableism along with bullying discrimination and hatred. Having a certain timeout environment can affect how a person can be efficient for longer. I also mentioned that environments that use automated equipment can lead to discrimination from nearby impatient customers. I also mention how certain open places can cause indirect problems for example at New Street station they installed in 2023 and replication of the large decorated bull sculpture which was part of the opening families for the Commonwealth Games. This has attracted many people who photographed and filmed the sculpture from all items. This can cause a negative side effect for a person with hidden differences with a higher amount of people than normal and also it can be an embarrassment if they are stressed anxious or in emotional distress. Asking Questions As part of attending events such as conferences and seminars, I had an opportunity to ask some questions at different presentation talks. Here are some examples: Arron Smith During The Dyslexia Show at the NEC I asked Arron a question related to some of these plans to improve the representation of dyslexia and neurodiversity. I asked how we improve representation when it has been married harder recently with the UK Government removing the department for the office of disability back in December 2023 He responded in similar words to focusing more on the communities Roman Kemp During Naidex at the NEC I asked Roman a question after his live interview. As Roman's appearance at the Naidex event was on International Day of Happiness and informed me of this awareness day and used this as a context to ask my question. As society can be very perceptive and very judgemental, what you think needs to be improved against the stigma. I mentioned this question was personal to my perspective and admitted I had shared less & strategised more for example when I have experienced mental health challenges.' Roman responded to focus on the kids and feels it will be harder to convince anyone older. He reacted in surprise and admitted he didn't know about the International Day of Happiness. Nicole Steven Creative Diversity & Inclusion Manager, Channel 4 During Naidex at the NEC I asked Nicole a question after she presented the planned strategy to improve how disabilities are portrayed on and off screen under the "code of portrayal" Because the broadcasters are inspiring her ideas at Channel 4. So, I asked Rachel could this model could be replicated in other parts of society. I meant an example of Transport for London's report in 2024 to improve diversity and inclusion in the public transport system limiting the improvement for a newer diversity related to the design system when it comes to navigating through their transport network without any lived experiences from neurodiverse persons in the short term. Nicole simply responded that she understood. To see more details of my experiences in attending the various events during Neurodiversity Celebration Week please read the article my highlights on Neurodiversity Celebration Week. The new "Neurodiversity Focus" mini-feature is now available via the Plus Value Awareness website. Visit my awareness website "Plus Value Awareness" to discover of projects, campigns and information Notice to editors:
Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also am involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions at Birmingham's NEC including Motion City (created by Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity) during the summer and Latinmotion's NYE Fest during the New Year public holiday. In 2022, Keith became a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the Commonwealth Games My involvement in supporting this year's neurodiversity celebration week combines projects and articles along with connecting with communities during the week and a few days earlier. For this year a different approach was made by representing at selected events and being involved in a neurodiversity-related workshop. "I felt it was important to evolve my support to Neurodiversity Celebration Week" beyond social media and online. When networking and meeting people there are still some people not aware of neurodiversity celebration week" Attending events It started a few days before the week began by attending the Dyslexia Show for the second time. This annual Dyslexia and Neurodiversity event takes place at Birmingham's NEC. As well as catching up with many people I've seen previously also met new people. I watched presentations from Arron Smith along with a panellist discussion hosted by Keisha Adair-Swaby featuring Tumi Sotire, Steve Parke and Zoe Jane Littlewood. During the middle of the neurodiversity celebration week, I returned to the NEC for the first time visit to the Disability Accessibility and Inclusion event Naidex. It includes an interview with Broadcaster & Mental Health campaigner Roman Kemp to address the importance of supporting people who are experiencing Mental Health. Examples of presentation talks Including from Nicole Steven Creative Diversity & inclusion manager at Channel 4 Television presenting their strategy on disability on & off-screen and presenting key commitments from the Channel 4's Code of Portrayal. Also, a panel discussion hosted by Dr. Shari Dhanda with examples of effective campaigns on disability. One of the people I have met with Rebecca Bailey, BBC Creative Diversity Assistant Content Producer. Workshops I attended a specialised workshop to Mark neurodiversity celebration week hosted by the University of Birmingham titled "In Space: Feeling the Built Environment" addressing open spaces and how places at work and education become more accommodating towards neurodivergents. This event was developed by the University Neurodiversity Staff community and was hosted by Dorothy Buckard and Jeremy Kidwell. Online feature The online special was available to support Neurodiversity Celebration Week. It includes an original blog for supporting this year's event. The article titled "A Connected World" reminds everybody to look beyond work and employment for a neurodivergent and widen opportunities including community participants relationships and many more. Read the article via the Plus Value Awareness blog on WordPress Awareness Beyond the Celebration Week As part of transforming my awareness website a new mini-feature focusing on Neurodiversity related articles and related projects is developed, titled "Neurodiversity Focus". This is part of the newly revamped feature awareness Focus which showcases diverse and focused areas of customised projects, articles and information. It will also feature the current online developments that supported this year's neurodiversity celebration week. Interactions during Neurodiversity Celebration week Visit my article on how I have interacted when connecting with communities during Neurodibversity Celebration Week The new "Neurodiversity Focus" mini-feature is now available via the Plus Value Awareness website. Visit my awareness website "Plus Value Awareness" to discover of projects, campigns and information Notice to editors: Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also am involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions at Birmingham's NEC including Motion City (created by Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity) during the summer and Latinmotion's NYE Fest during the New Year public holiday. In 2022, Keith became a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the Commonwealth Games A short analysis article of being featured in the Voice Newspaper twice within 12 months During February and December of 2023, it was an honour to be featured in one of the UK important cultural-related publications in the UK. Beforehand I have attempted to request to be featured for many years with the news publications and publications related to the project I have to developed. I was excited and so happy that I was finally featured with one of the UK's most recognised culturally related publications. February edition (2023) The first time I was featured was related to a video campaign I was involved in as a featured participant to showcase Birmingham's Legacy since the city beyond the Commonwealth Games and what factors were needed to support disabilities from benefits to employment Read by Article below to find out more December edition (2023) The second time when I was featured was related to my special participation role. This was related to being involved in an open consultation by the Department for Work and Pensions in changing their procedures to encourage more disabilities into employment. In addition, I have developed a special family of objective insight documents which present the aspects and solutions. Both articles were written by The Voice Midlands correspondent Veron Graham. It was well-written concise and written to the audience with greater context and insight. So I would like to share a special thank you to Veron Graham and the team at Voice newspaper to feature my stories and developments in the past 12 months. Notice to editors
The Voice The monthly newspaper publications cover a variety of stories and topics related to UK-born people with the ethnicity of African-Caribbean backgrounds. In 2022 the paper celebrated its 40th Anniversary since then paper launched when it was a weekly publication to a monthly edition today in print and via a paywall subscription online. Keith Mckenzie Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also are involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions at Birmingham's NEC for Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity. In 2022, Keith became a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the Commonwealth Games This blog provides my insight on developing and trailing an interactive touchpoint organiser when I was volunteering for Latinmotion's annual convention, the NYE Fest. Background For many years when I was volunteering for this salsa dancing convention, I was using a group of printed fold-out materials as my volunteering pack. My role including monitoring oncoming visitors and participation is wearing the appropriate wristband when entering the events area of the venue. Also, it provides information and to access different elements of the event schedules including specific classes, workshops, presentations, live shows and different social parties between four different rooms. This can be extremely demanding as hundreds of visitors and participations pass through into the events areas every hour within a four-hour volunteering schedule. So using an organiser as a tool & a reference to make sure my autistic difficulties do not compromise my role and requirements. This is especially because there is a lot of information and reminders to remember during the volunteering role. Historical or previous context Although these printed materials worked well most of the time it did not able for me to be adaptable which specific situations occur. Especially when it is not possible to access specific information and guidelines quickly with particular print materials and particular foldout areas of a document. This includes uncompromising visitors who have no or invalid wristbands and those who are hostile and disrespectful. Also, the printed documents made it harder to able to deal with the extreme and disruptive behaviour of visitors and crew members. Because it this I have experienced mental health and anxiety which affect my confidence to volunteer. So I wanted to create a different way of being organised while increasing my ability to be flexible and adaptable. Before developing a digital organiser I was creating interactive touch point documents including an art & design portfolio and and general showcase. This was used for networking related to awareness, creative and other opportunities. Visit the Development blog for more Prototype material This led to the development of prototype digital materials with interactivity. The documents are made of main and section index pages, information, maps reminders and guidance pages within sections. It incorporates the information previously used for printed organisers as a potential digital organiser. When it was initially created I shared the prototype digital documents with key members & leaders of Latinmotion the event organiser of NYE Fest. The team was fascinated by my developments and asked several questions and addressed a potential scenario on how I cope. It was becoming obvious the interactive organiser had able me to manage more and become more prepared. Developments level The next stage is to refine the information and prepare the rest of the information and content which enables to completion the materials. While this was found I was refining the graphics and presentation to make sure the material will maintain my attention when using the material during a four-hour volunteering duty. Regularly I had to test the materials and make updates, modifications & alterations to the information presentation and features. This continued until I was happy with the results. The design presentation combined vibrant & design features. The vibrant side is inspired by the graphics & design presentation used for US live sports broadcasts & networks which incorporate bold headline titles, three-dimensional visual effects, and colour blends. The typeface "Impact" was used as the document page titles to align the document to how the typeface is used on the official materials of the event. Meanwhile, the "Lato" typeface was used for paragraph text as it was easy for the eye to read the content quickly. Meanwhile, the practical side incorporated colour coding to identify the sections of the organiser and used solid colour blocks of different sizes behind the certain written content related to communication protocols, guidelines and specific instructions. Adding the quick shortcut links There are at times certain information needs to be accessed quickly which goes beyond the main & section index pages. So the quick & shortcut links were added to bridge the gap. The quick links are displayed on detailed information pages. It is either used as an addition lino with the same or a different section of the document. Throughout the document family of quick links are used to get around the document at high speed when needed. This is displayed consistently on one side of the document pages. The completion The finalisation of the documents was made when the official programme was announced and the finalised details of the events map. This was because the room's location was changed. This led to the final test of the interactivity to make the documents work before making final alterations. For volunteering the digital organiser was used For a specific tablet device was used For display purposes only (which is different from general devices I used For personal purposes) this is for privacy & security reasons. Using the digital organiser From start to finish of each volunteering duty the use of the interactive volunteer has been a seamless experience. It has enabled me to remove all stress and pressures when unplanned situations occur. It not only enabled me to be versatile and adaptable when required I was also able expand my capabilities beyond what so can manage. Review, decision and approach The overall analysis is that we need to be creative and imaginative when it comes to developing materials tools and references which lead to enable to best out of others. It is not always about what's the following or creating trends or the next big Innovation. We need to think smartly to develop positive solutions within the resources and a vision. Developing the interactive volunteer organiser was a vision inspired by news broadcasts when a journalist presented information from a large touchscreen. Especially when it is used on US election broadcasts on television and provides real-time results The Final conclusion So it's not about thinking ahead is about having a vision with smarter creativity & solutions View the project information page with more on the design aspects of the project by visiting the creative page Find out about my involvement in the NYE Fest by visiting the Dancing Direction webpage
Highlights of the annual occasion which stands out compared to any other new year celebrations. The NYE Fest is the biggest and one the most recognised New Year salsa dancing events in the UK & Europe. The event took place from Saturday the 30th December through to many years day Monday 1st January at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel at the heart of the NEC organised by Latinmotion provides a family of workshops, classes, social dance and exclusive live performances. The event attracts attendees from around the UK and beyond. As well as an attendee I was a volunteer and participant behind the scenes. Volunteering My volunteer incorporates many different roles including monitoring the appropriate response or when visitors and participants are entering the event area of the venue. Also, I assisted in setting up party items during the New Year's Eve celebrations and helping to dismantle the equipment and items after the event closed. Wrap my volunteering roles I was available to provide assistance or guidance facilities and to help direct visitors and participants to the appropriate locations of the event. This was my fifth time volunteering but this event and I used my experience to say my suggestions several months beforehand to make sure the volunteering team had a coordinated and supportive working environment with respect throughout. Innovation during my volunteering This year's team role was the most innovative and groundbreaking ever as I introduced using an interactive touch digital volunteering organiser. This was used on a custom use tablet device for this role. Enables me to be organised and resourced for all the important information of the events along with guidance and procedures depending on the information required or if a challenging situation occurred. The digital interactive organiser was designed and developed by myself to find out more click on the following links below Presenting surprise This was not the end of the story because my role expanded One special involves surprising the founders of Latinmotion to acknowledge the achievement of more than 30 years since both founders started the organisation way back in 1993. Despite I made one minor error the audience approved and appreciated this special surprise moment. Digital Signage trail I offered to provide a unique solution after the venue hosts of the event organisers to access their large green digital signs to promote the event the programme and additional information. So before the event began I was developing prototype digital signage. This involves a lot of research and consultations with organisations that use digital signs regularly. What I have developed is designed to help people welcome to the event and now all the essential information including the event map and the events schedule. Sadly because of information that was not brought to our attention my specialty-designed digital signage was able to be used at this year's event. However but what I have developed there is a possibility that will have developed could be used in future events My insight As expected the event brought in some of the finest dances from all over the UK to put together one of the brightest New Year's events out there. But it doesn't stop there, I can become an innovative participant with an interactive organiser and the prototype digital signage for future events. Towards Inclusivity Within the past year, I have developed my dancing awareness Project inclusive to dance which provides information and guidance to enable inclusivity regardless of abilities. This was sad to the event leaders and some of the visitors and participants. Beyond the event I have decided that the detailed suggestion documents for embrace dancing environment and convinces is to be fully developed for everyone for the first time. In the past it was limited to the team leaders of Latin Motion and London's Mambo City and in 2022 these documents were featured on the UK's most important awareness campaigners for Anna Kennedy OBE. The dancing inclusivity documents are now available to view and download by visiting the "Embracing Direction" page Party night and daytime matinee The parties took place on Saturday the 30th of December, New Year's Eve and the daytime hours of New Year's Day. Within the four different rooms, the dance floors were full of dancers throughout. Each day also presented exclusive dance performances from professional dancers. The countdown towards the midnight celebrations on New Year's Eve concludes with the midnight celebrations moment, combining the traditional cheers and hugs along with the energetic and vibrant dancing demonstrations. The event concludes on New Year's Day (during daytime only) with classes, social dances and a bonus of a live band performing. Visit the mini feature for details of the NYE Fest
Some changes in how awareness projects are presented online and on social media The changes were made for many reasons. Firstly a change to how the identity symbol was used for for Plus Value Awareness because a recent rebrand of the transport operator Eurostar looked similar to the previous awareness identity. Despite I developed the previous identity design in the spring of 2021, there could be a risk of potential legal action due to the similarities. Secondly, due to an increasingly creative and competitive awareness environment, the energy and enthusiasm need to be added with a strong consistency. This led to the introduction of curved value shapes as a visual identity. This consists of a curved upside-down triangle interpreted and a curved "V" for value. This created flexibility and adaptability on different formats & layouts online, on social media (posts & stories) and for printed materials After 8 years the main font used to be updated as the previous font "Open Sans" was becoming very predictable and was becoming a burden in strengthening and maintaining the appeal to audiences online & beyond. So the use of the font is changed to "Lato" which means to bring new energy and raise enthusiasm to the topics and points addressed. Also, a new collection on flexible use of different typefaces to be displayed with specific projects and blogs for the general public and focused audiences. This is important to gain the attention of a more variety of audiences without appearing patronising or lecturing. The rebrand is not just for Awareness. The new style presenting is gradually being rolled out to this website and the enterprise proposal identity. This demonstrates a unified family of projects and developments from myself. This includes the focus projects from this website and with Aware+Vision. This is important to gain confidence to community and for enterprise environments. So in summary the changes to improve enthusiasm, energy while improve appeal & confidence Futher awareness rebranding is available on the Transformation pages of the Plus Value Awareness website Updates on other presentation will appear on the update blog of this website.
An event which includles special guest Sir Trevor McDonald OBE
This blog provides my personal experiences when attending UK Black Business Show at Birmingham's NEC and being able to participate in a Q&A with one of my icons This is the first time I've attended a business-related event in 5 years. My aim was to network and seek specific advice. Unlike other events I have attended during the spring months there was a reduced amount of organisations and people that I would approach because of their relevance. Throughout the event, I meet with Business leaders, Business support advisors, Media staff and management. Had a great conversation with a journalist from London-based Colourful Radio and covered different insights and perspectives. The main approach related to organisations is with the Greater Birmingham and Solihull business growth hub and the business advice service with the West Midlands combined authority. This was not the only reason I attended this event but also a special interview with one of the most legendary names in Britain and a very respected journalism and broadcasting. A special conversion was with Sir Trevor McDonald OBE was interviewed by Shelly Biston, head of diversity equity and inclusion at News UK. The interview shares Sir Trevor's insight since he started journalism and broadcasting when he was based in Trinidad. Also, how it led to different kinds of opportunities with coming to the UK first with the BBC then became a monumental icon with independent television news (ITN) and the ITV network. He shared different examples of the importance to display variety in journalism and reporting. Many people may not know that Sir Trevor reported on the disputes happening in Northern Ireland. He talked about how he approaches reporting in different parts of the world. Alsd Sir Trevor Shared his experiences when interviewing key leaders around of the world including Nelson Mandela the first journalist in the world interview him since he was imprisoned for many decades. Also, his insight on other exclusive interviews with Saddam Hussein over the gulf war and with former US President George W Bush. During that interview Trevor's hard-hitting interview to the former US Presedent related to Iraq War lad the president to have a defensive reaction. My Q&A Opportunity directly to Sir Trevor This keynote conversation opened to the audience for a Q&A. I had the special honor to be able to ask a question. However, because of the strict rules they only allow a person within a section of the audience so I had to take a risk to ask two questions because someone nearby also wanted to ask a question. However, I was very polite to them and mentions if they don't be cheecky but to ask two questions Trevor responded cheeky everybody laughed. Firstly off of an audience member nearby, I first ask if there are people you wished you had a chance to interview which it never got to do. The second question was what I plan to ask originally. It was to do with the progress of equality and diversity. As Sir Trevor was groundbreaking as one of the first black people in the fear his field of journalism and broadcasting. I emphasize other examples of progress for black and ethnic backgrounds in opportunities with women and with LGBT. I then conclude by asking if is it now time to be more accepting of black and ethnic backgrounds with neurodiversity and how to make sure a person's difficulty should not hold them back. I emphasize sharing living with the autistic spectrum and linked with neurodiversity and I explained that I have to face obstacles and prejudice. My planned question was the only one that the studio audiences clap to. Sir Trevor responded that they should be acceptance and explained there is no excuse for discrimination. He used this as a context for how it doesn't understand why in Afghanistan they banned women from work and education. After the event This keynote interview was being filmed for the event so after the interview I went to the production team to find out if the Q&A section of the interview was also filmed. With how I questioned Sir Trevor, surprisingly the team thought that I was a journalist. I found that as an amazing compliment, I wasn't expecting. I would be informed by the team at the UK black business show if my q&a question was filmed or not. I will keep you updated on this and if the video is available I will notify and share this with everyone online. Words cannot describe my experience when attending the UK black business show. It was an honor and privilege to not only attend this event but to be able to ask a Q&A question to my icon and someone with I look up to extremely high for most of my life. Note to editors Keith Mckenzie Keith is an awareness campaigner, a creative designer (Graphic design and digital art) and a salsa dancing participant With a background in Art & Design (including Graphic Design & Digital art) and a participant in music-related film documentaries, events & record label project King Of the Beats including filming and behind the scene preparations. Keith was educated at Hereford College of the Arts, the University of Northampton, Birmingham City University and Google's Digital Garage. Since 2000, he has developed over twenty years in providing awareness projects, campaigns and activities with the Awareness brand Plus Value Awareness along with Differences Originals. Also are involved with salsa classes in the local community as an assistant. Also have participated in major dancing conventions twice a year at Birmingham's NEC for Birmingham Latinmotion and London's ManboCity. In 2022, Keith become a featured community participant for Birmingham who became part of special projects and campaigns to promote a positive legacy beyond hosting the commonwealth games |
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About meI have an career background related to art & design, a participant on a music project King of the Beats and developed of series of awareness projects for local communities Archives
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