When asked about the New Writers’ Prize, he tells me he first heard about it on the radio and when confiding in a friend about their entry a few days before the deadline “…she was like, you have to send this in! Like, this is really good. And I think if she hadn’t said that, I probably wouldn’t have done it, so I owe her a lot”. The doctor was “completely blown away” and said, “I still have moments where it has not really settled in”.

Discussing his debut novel ‘People Like Us’, now to be called ‘Sunstruck’ , Will revealed “…it was about the characters and just how kind of vibrant they felt” that made his entry stand out against almost 1,000 other entries submitted. He goes on to tell me more about the book; following two young men in the South of France who meet and fall in love whilst on holiday and how that bond is tested when they return back home in London. One of the men is mixed race, working-class, whereas the other is white and from a well off London based family.

“…I draw a lot from some of my experiences of dating, but also just of like, being a person of colour in quite white spaces, which is something that I think most people of color in the UK experience to some degree, and trying to find the point of human connection in those, like, quite fraught spaces. I guess it’s come from a thought experiment, on how to bridge those gaps and love across things like race and class. And it’s just about how, whether or not it’s strong enough to overcome those very structural things because love feels so organic in some ways, but then, now there’s all of this structure around it”

Hunter mentions there will be points of reference to black culture – specifically Jamaican culture and hopes these points will hit home with readers who can relate. “There are also some really universal points about how you love and how you feel loved by someone who is different to you, that will appeal too”.

I asked whether or not Will feels any pressure regarding being a prize winner to which he responded by commending other successful candidates of the #MerkyBooks Prize: “I’ve seen how the previous winners’ books have done and their writing really speaks for itself and I hope mine does as well”.

Exploring the writer’s other successes, studying Medicine and earning a Master’s in Clinical and Forensic Psychology at Newcastle University, he describes how he thrives on having a busy schedule and therefore enjoys incorporating all socializing, writing and studying into his life.

He vocalises the ups and downs of working in Accident and Emergency starting in December 2019. “You are taking on a lot of emotion, and I find it quite hard to separate myself from the patients’ emotions. So I find it a very emotionally taxing job”. On the other hand, Will explains how rewarding it was “…seeing the change in someone from them being anxious and afraid when they come in and being more reassured and feeling safer when they leave.. I found that amazing”.

Although Will has taken a step back from A&E and is focusing more on writing, he refers to feeling “really lucky to be a queer black person. I think those parts of my identity allow me a level of empathy with other people who are struggling in so many different ways… I could understand them (patients) better. I could be kinder. I understood feeling scared, and I understood feeling ashamed”.

Whilst conversing about the lack of representation for strong queer and/or black leads in media, books, public figures, etc., Will shares that a “big inspiration of mine is a writer called Caleb Azuma Nelson…I really loved Queenie by Candice Carty Williams. I think it’s like an excellent book” and also talks about how he “grew up reading a lot of Zadie Smith”. They discuss how they feel lucky to be a part of #MerkyBooks as they’re now included in this new wave of black British writers that the industry is starting to notice.

Two groups were studied, one was sleep deprived only gaining 5.5 hours sleep, whilst the other group on exactly the same diet but getting 8.5 hours sleep found that at the end of the study, they’d lost 55% more body fat simply from sleeping more.

Now this goes against the modern-day dogma of doing more to achieve your goals and in many ways sounds counterintuitive, as how does doing less (i.e. sleeping) actually give you more in terms of burning fat.

This isn’t just a question of sleeping more, we need to sleep smarter. What actually happens whilst we sleep that enhances everything that we do, and becomes some kind of elixir to our health, fitness and longevity?

So, for today let’s talk about a few hormones that may be having an effect on your sleep and health.

HGH (Human Growth Hormone) is an extremely powerful hormone that you will produce during the first part of your sleep cycle, and which helps to produce more lean muscle. It’s also muscle sparing and helps to protect the muscle that you already have. HGH also helps to increase energy levels and is known as the “Fountain of Youth” as you will have naturally higher levels during childhood.

Sleep is the key here, as you won’t increase your levels from a supplement that claims to “Increase HGH by 555%”, but you will increase levels by getting a good night’s sleep.

The second hormone that we need to look at is cortisol, which has become a bit of a buzzword and bogeyman of late. Cortisol is responsible for a whole variety of metabolic functions such as helping to regulate your thyroid hormone.

The thyroid regulates nearly every major metabolic function within your body, and as such, a poor functioning thyroid can have a detrimental effect on nearly every area of your health. For instance, weight gain, reduced metabolic rate, fatigue, feeling depressed or moody, dry hair and skin and much more. Cortisol is our friend for most of the time; it only becomes an issue if it’s produced at the wrong time and in the wrong amount.

Sleep deprivation has an immediate effect with an increase in cortisol levels and a decrease in HGH production. So, if you’re staying up late, and burning the midnight oil checking your emails then your cortisol levels will be increased significantly, and you will literally be breaking down your muscle tissue for energy at an elevated rate. This process is called gluconeogenesis, where you will be breaking down your valuable muscle tissue into sugar (glucose).

Read more on Elevate online magazine

The event was powered by World Privilege Plus and Elevate, in partnership with Armani Beauty and Kiehls. Additional brand sponsors included Nield Visual Media, Lustrelash, Feyas World, The Glow Regime, Arbonne, and Ocean Sage Therapies.

Photography was beautifully captured by Caroline White, with highlight shots by Capturing Curves. Molyneux Marketing created the event visuals and promotional video in collaboration with Nield Visual Media and Pixie Creative Socials. Guests were also treated to delicious cupcakes from Sunlight Pastries and More.

Singer Ellie Marie brought the house down with a performance of “At Last” by Etta James, transitioning into a high-energy party atmosphere. Aneesa Rasul added to the excitement with an empowering dance performance, while Teagan Herbert and Zola Steelpan kept the afterparty buzzing with infectious energy.

The subjects covered on stage ranged from manifestation and money mindset to fitness, nutrition, and content creation. Attendees left with unshakable confidence and new connections. Henry Ditchfield crowned Fazila Sciberras as the best-dressed attendee—a true fashion icon!

Treehouse Hotel Manchester, by SH Hotels & Resorts, will be the second property for the award-winning Treehouse Hotels brand to open in the UK. Located in the city centre, the hotel will bring adventure, escapism and contemporary design to guests and the local community alike. Every detail is imagined through the carefree, optimistic lens of childhood, balanced with a distinctly modern sensibility.

With over 20 years of experience in hospitality and as a restaurateur, Mary-Ellen McTague has worked alongside Heston Blumenthal at his esteemed Michelin-starred restaurants, The Fat Duck and The Hinds Head. Now, the Manchester-born and raised Chef is set to bring her innovative ethos of low-waste cooking to Manchester’s restaurant. scene.

Sustainability efforts extend to the drinks offered at Pip. The wine programme focuses on small boutique-produced, environmentally conscious and sustainable wines. This includes organic and biodynamic farming and other methods of minimal intervention. Similarly, the cocktail program features a rotation of seasonal signature drinks and classics, developed in synergy with the kitchen and anchored in minimal waste practices. The drinks showcase what can be done to repurpose spent produce into creative homemade ingredients thoughtfully.

Commenting on her new restaurant opening, Mary-Ellen McTague said: “I’m thrilled to bring Pip to life at Treehouse Hotel Manchester. This restaurant is a celebration of everything I am passionate about – seasonal, low-waste cooking and the incredible produce we have here in the North West. The menu is designed to showcase the best of our local culinary heritage, using modern techniques that make the most of every single ingredient. I cannot wait to share our vision for Pip with the Manchester community and beyond.”

Understanding the Significance of Black History Month
Black History Month was first celebrated in the UK in 1987, drawing inspiration from the US tradition of Negro History Week established by historian Carter G. Woodson. The month aims to educate the public about the achievements and struggles of Black individuals throughout history. In today’s context, it also serves as a platform for discussing contemporary issues related to race, identity, and social justice.

Educational Events Across Schools and Universities
Many educational institutions in the UK are integrating Black history into their curricula during October. Schools and universities organise workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that delve into the contributions of notable Black figures. Engaging students through interactive sessions helps foster a deeper understanding of Black culture and history, making these events crucial for shaping young minds.

Cultural Institutions Hosting Special Exhibitions
Cultural institutions play a pivotal role in Black History Month celebrations. Museums and galleries throughout the UK, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, often feature exhibitions that highlight the achievements of Black communities. These exhibitions not only showcase historical artefacts but also promote contemporary Black artists, allowing visitors to explore the impact of Black culture on British society.

Arts and Performance: Celebrating Black Creativity
The arts are a central focus during Black History Month, with theatres and performance spaces hosting a plethora of events. From plays and poetry readings to musical performances, these events celebrate the richness of Black creativity. Local community centres often organise open mic nights and talent showcases, providing a platform for emerging artists to share their stories and connect with their communities. To find local events, visit Black Cultural Archives.

Community Involvement: Celebrating Together
Community involvement is essential for a successful Black History Month. Many neighbourhoods organise festivals and gatherings that bring people together for a day of celebration. These events typically feature music, dance, storytelling, and art, creating an environment of unity and dialogue. From London to Manchester and beyond, local communities actively participate in shaping their narratives, celebrating their heritage, and educating others. Check out Eventbrite for listings of Black History Month events near you.

The Role of Social Media in Amplifying Voices
Social media platforms have become invaluable tools for promoting Black History Month events. Campaigns and hashtags encourage individuals to share their stories, reflections, and experiences related to Black history. This digital engagement not only broadens the reach of the celebrations but also fosters connections among individuals across the UK and globally.

What is a White-Label World Privilege Plus?
A **white-label solution** allows your business to offer World Privilege Plus benefits under your own branding, giving your employees or customers access to a global network of discounts and services while maintaining your company’s identity. It’s a turnkey solution that saves time, resources, and effort compared to developing an in-house perks platform from scratch.

Cost-Effective Benefits for Companies
Whether you’re a small business looking to reward your employees or a larger corporation aiming to enhance your customer loyalty program, WPP’s white-label service is designed to fit a variety of business needs without compromising on quality.

1. Cost Savings on Program Development
Developing your own loyalty or employee rewards platform requires significant investment in both time and resources. From software development to partner acquisition and program management, the costs can spiral quickly. With a **white-label version of WPP**, you get an already-established platform with thousands of global partnerships. This eliminates the need for upfront development costs while providing a polished, feature-rich product.

4. Increased Retention at a Low Cost
Employee turnover and customer churn are costly challenges for businesses. Studies show that access to perks and discounts increases both employee satisfaction and customer loyalty. By offering WPP’s **white-label service**, you create an added value that can help reduce turnover and keep customers coming back—without the financial strain of launching a custom loyalty platform.

The Return on Investment
The value of offering a white-label version of WPP can quickly outpace the costs:

– For Employees: A perk-rich environment can improve morale, productivity, and retention. Access to discounts on travel, dining, and everyday purchases can make a significant difference to your team’s overall happiness, leading to less turnover and reduced hiring costs.

– For Customers: Loyalty programs are a proven way to increase repeat business. By offering a branded rewards program with exclusive perks, you encourage customers to engage more frequently with your brand, improving lifetime value without the overhead of traditional loyalty campaigns.

Tailored to Fit Your Brand
The white-label WPP solution is fully customizable, allowing you to match the user interface, color schemes, and branding to your company’s identity. This means you can offer world-class perks without losing your unique brand voice, ensuring that the program feels like an extension of your business rather than a third-party add-on.

The statistics surrounding plastic pollution in our oceans are staggering. An estimated 8-12 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, largely originating from land-based sources. This plastic persists for hundreds, even thousands of years, breaking down into smaller and smaller fragments known as microplastics. These microplastics contaminate the food chain, ingested by plankton, fish and even making their way into the seafood we consume. 

The consequences for marine life are devastating. Animals become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injuries, suffocation and even death. Seabirds and turtles mistake plastic bags for food, filling their stomachs with a deadly substitute. This plastic pollution not only disrupts the natural order of the ocean but also poses a significant threat to human health. 

Fortunately, amidst this grim reality, organisations like Ocean Bottle are rising to the challenge. Founded with a clear mission – to combat ocean plastic pollution – Ocean Bottle offers a refreshing and impactful solution. Their innovative reusable water bottles are made from recycled stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, silicone rubber and ocean-bound plastic. All of these materials are recyclable.

Here’s how Ocean Bottle makes a difference:

• Combating Plastic at its Source: For every Ocean Bottle sold, the business funds the collection of 1000 plastic bottles in weight. Ocean Bottle works with three Plastic Collection partners to collect plastic on a global scale in areas where plastic pollution is at its worst.  Collectors exchange plastic for money and get access to social resources such as healthcare, education and financial security.  So far, Ocean Bottle has collected 14,164,500 kilograms of plastic via its partners, the equivalent of 1 billion plastic bottles in weight. This prevents further plastic from entering the marine environment and contributes to cleaner oceans.

• Promoting Reuse: Ocean Bottle’s reusable water bottles are a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bottles. Encouraging people to switch to reusable options significantly reduces plastic consumption and its associated environmental impact. 
• Raising Awareness: The Ocean Bottle is a powerful symbol of the fight against plastic pollution. Every bottle tells a story—the story of plastic waste transformed into a force for good. This raises awareness and inspires individuals to become more conscious of their plastic footprint. 

The impact of Ocean Bottle extends beyond the tangible benefits of cleaner oceans and reduced plastic consumption. By supporting this organisation, consumers actively participate in the solution. Every Ocean Bottle purchased represents a commitment to a healthier planet and a thriving ocean. 

We’re thrilled to introduce the upcoming  WPPElevate Book Club!  Subscribe to Elevate Magazine for free to gain immediate access to our book club as soon as it launches. Meanwhile, enjoy the perks of our discount club and explore Elevate Magazine at www.wppelevate.com. Exciting things are on the way, so make sure you stay tuned! 📚✨

Joining a book club can be an enriching experience that offers numerous benefits beyond just reading books. From fostering a sense of community to broadening literary horizons, book clubs provide a platform for intellectual growth and social engagement.

Pros of Joining a Book Club 🌟

1. Social Interaction and Networking: Book clubs provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people and build friendships. This social interaction can be particularly beneficial for expanding one’s professional network or making new friends.
   
2. Broadening Literary Horizons: Being part of a book club encourages readers to explore genres and authors they might not have considered otherwise. This exposure can lead to discovering new favorite books and authors, enhancing one’s appreciation for different styles and themes.
   
3. Enhanced Critical Thinking: Discussing books in a group setting can improve critical thinking and analytical skills. Members are encouraged to articulate their thoughts, defend their opinions, and consider alternative viewpoints. This engagement can sharpen the mind and improve communication skills.
   
4. Accountability and Motivation: Knowing that you will be discussing a book with others can provide the motivation needed to read regularly.
   
5. Stress Relief: Reading is a well-known stress reliever, and discussing books in a supportive group can further enhance this effect.

Cons of Joining a Book Club ⚖️

1. Time Commitment: Regular meetings require a significant time commitment, which can be challenging for individuals with busy schedules.
   
2. Diverse Opinions: While diverse opinions can enrich discussions, they can also lead to disagreements and conflicts. Handling differing viewpoints respectfully requires good communication and interpersonal skills.
   
3. Book Selection: Not every book chosen by the club will appeal to all members. Sometimes, members may have to read books they do not enjoy, which can dampen enthusiasm.

Dos and Don’ts for a Successful Book Club 📜

Dos:

• Be Respectful: Respect others’ opinions and contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Be Open-Minded: Be willing to explore different genres and authors, even if they are outside your comfort zone.
• Communicate: Share your thoughts and listen actively to others. Good communication is key to a successful book club experience.

Don’ts:

• Dominate Discussions: Allow everyone a chance to speak and avoid monopolising conversations.
• Be Disrespectful: Avoid dismissing others’ opinions or engaging in heated arguments.
• Criticise Personal Choices: Respect that not everyone will enjoy the same books and that personal preferences vary.

1. Passport Power: Double-check that validity! 🌍 Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Don’t get caught out by the “10-year rule.”

2. European Health Essentials: Traveling to Europe? 🏥 Ensure everyone in your family has a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) for medical emergencies.

3. The Rebooking Rebate: 💸 Did you know you can sometimes snag a better deal by rebooking your hotel or car hire? Check their websites closer to your trip date – you might be surprised!

4. Flight Woes? Know Your Rights: ✈️ Bookmark important airline and regulatory body webpages on your phone. If your flight gets cancelled or delayed, you might be entitled to compensation upwards of £200 per person.

5. Car Hire Conundrum: 🚗 Don’t fall prey to expensive add-on insurance at the car rental pick-up counter. Research beforehand and decline politely if their offer doesn’t suit you.

6. Local Laws & Quirks: 📜 Flip-flops in public? A dip in the fountain? Believe it or not, some seemingly harmless holiday habits can land you in hot water. Research local laws and customs before you go to avoid a nasty surprise.

7. Park & Fly Savvy: 🅿️ Don’t wait until the last minute! Book your airport parking in advance – even on the day of departure – to potentially score a better rate.

8. Plastic Fantastic? Watch the Conversion: 💳 When using your debit or credit card abroad, always choose to pay in the local currency. This avoids hidden fees associated with dynamic currency conversion.