In the highly anticipated film Oppenheimer, visionary director Christopher Nolan delivers a masterful cinematic journey that delves deep into the complex themes of science, ethics, and the human condition.
At its core, ‘Oppenheimer’ is a deep dive into the moral dilemmas surrounding scientific advancements, particularly in the context of the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The film follows the life and work of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant physicist who played a key role in the Manhattan Project. Through a thought-provoking narrative, the movie poses critical questions about the responsibilities of scientists when their discoveries have far-reaching consequences for humanity. It raises issues of ethics, accountability, and the often-fraught relationship between science and society.
One of the film’s standout themes is the examination of the weight of individual decisions and their impact on the course of history. Oppenheimer’s internal struggle as he wrestles with the consequences of his involvement in creating the atomic bomb serves as a powerful allegory for the choices humanity faces in wielding its technological prowess. The film wonderfully confronts viewers with the complexity of ethical decision-making in times of war through the use of incredible imagery which helps to underscore the enduring relevance of these dilemmas in the present day.
Nolan has delivered another intellectually stimulating and emotional Imax experience. With its meticulous storytelling and thematic depth, the film provokes contemplation on the ethical implications of scientific progress and the intricacies of the human psyche. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mindful decision-making, collaboration, and introspection in shaping the world we inhabit. ‘Oppenheimer’ is a compelling and thought-provoking work of art that will leave a lasting impression on viewers, sparking conversations about the enduring moral dilemmas faced by humanity.”
In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal has made an unprecedented bid of $332 million to acquire the services of French superstar Kylian Mbappé. The staggering offer surpasses any previous transfer fee in football history and has put the Riyadh-based club at the center of attention.
Sources close to the negotiation reveal that Al-Hilal’s ambitious bid comes as a result of their ardent desire to establish themselves as a global football powerhouse. This audacious move showcases the club’s commitment to bringing world-class talent to Saudi Arabia and competing at the highest levels of the sport.
Mbappé, one of the most electrifying players in modern football, has been a hot topic of transfer speculation for years, with Europe’s top clubs vying for his signature. The 24-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward’s mesmerizing combination of blistering speed, clinical finishing, and creative flair has seen him rise to the pinnacle of the sport.
While the Frenchman’s current contract with Paris Saint-Germain still has several years left, Al-Hilal’s extraordinary bid has left many wondering whether the lure of a new challenge in an emerging footballing market could entice the young superstar to make a daring move.
If the deal were to go through, it would be a monumental moment for both Al-Hilal and the sport as a whole. Not only would it mark the first time a Saudi Arabian club breaks the world transfer record, but it could also potentially reshape the global football landscape, with the balance of power shifting beyond traditional European giants.
Al-Hilal’s aggressive pursuit of Mbappé also underlines the growing appeal of the Middle East as an attractive destination for top-tier football talent. In recent years, the region has invested heavily in sports infrastructure, making it an increasingly appealing option for players and clubs alike.
However, the blockbuster transfer faces several hurdles before becoming a reality. Paris Saint-Germain has been resolute in their desire to retain their prized asset, and the French club’s owners are unlikely to part ways with Mbappé easily. Additionally, European football governing bodies will closely scrutinize the deal to ensure its compliance with Financial Fair Play regulations.
Despite the complexities surrounding the potential transfer, the fact that Al-Hilal has even tabled such an astonishing bid sends a clear message to the footballing world that the landscape is evolving. The days of traditional footballing powerhouses monopolizing top talent are gradually fading, as clubs from different continents look to make their mark on the sport.
While Mbappé’s future remains uncertain, the mere prospect of this groundbreaking transfer has ignited fervent discussions among fans, analysts, and experts worldwide. It serves as a reminder that in modern football, no transfer saga is too grand or improbable.
As the negotiations continue, football enthusiasts will keep a close eye on Al-Hilal’s historic bid for Kylian Mbappé. Regardless of the outcome, this audacious move has undoubtedly set a new benchmark for football transfers and showcases the ambition and determination of the Saudi club to leave an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
Can one generation save the whole world? This happened in the 1940s when the so-called Greatest Generation successful defeated Nazism, ushering a long period of stability and growing living standards. Now comes the rightful heirs to the mantle – a consequential generation that may be mankind’s greatest hope in the existential battles against inequality, global warming, and political and social instability. Yes, we are of course talking about Generation Z. As the workforce evolves, so does the way we manage our employees. That means dealing with Generation Z. They may appear to be a nuisance at first glance, but they are actually a very valuable addition to any business. In this article, we’ll be providing insight on what Gen Z is all about and the best way to manage them in any workspace. We’ll also highlight their needs in the workspace. So fasten your seat belts and prepare for take-off as we embark on this escapade.
So who are Gen Z’s? Gen Z is the generation of millennials who are presently in their teenage years and entering adulthood. This generation constitutes people who grew up to be deeply attached to technology, particularly from the moment they became self-aware. They are the most racial, ethnically diverse, educated and digitally savvy generation. Being a nonconformist generation, they reject labels and traditional financial pursuits, and embrace non-binary ideas of gender and sexuality. Having survived a global pandemic, lockdown drills, wars on terrorism and an opioid crisis, they are the most resilient generation.
The Gen Z generation are cynical, pragmatic, resourceful, sympathetic and smart beyond their years but they are still a work-in-progress. Their social skills are less developed due to their mastery of technology, as a result, they struggle to recognize false information, and are afraid of making mistakes.
So what makes Gen Z different from older employees? Gen Z have learnt to think, learn, and communicate in a world characterized by ubiquitous wireless internet access, complete technological integration and endless content. They are always connected to each other and they have a limitless supply of answers to any question whether through social media, search engines, or instant messaging. As a result, many of them appear unusually bright to employers and business leaders.
Gen Z employees come from a generation where traditional approach to work is no longer adequate. They desire jobs that are fascinating and challenging with room for personal improvement. These people do not want to be constrained by rules that govern the workplace. So patterns that are overly rigid or formulaic is a turn off for them. Because of this, they are always in disagreement with employers from previous generations who are devoted to systems which were developed years ago.
The pragmatic and fun-filled nature of this generation makes them to constantly be in a hunt for new opportunities and challenges. They want to work in places where they can express their creativity, imagination, and problem-solving abilities. Companies that do not provide adequate opportunities for employee growth struggle to keep these people who are not afraid to change jobs and careers. Employers that expect their workers to focus solely on a particular pattern of doing a job may find Gen Z’s inclination for continually acquiring new skills and exploration bothersome.
This generation is accustomed to working in a flexible environment because they grew up in a world that is connected and borderless, thanks to the internet, social media and a plethora of devices. They want the freedom to work on their own terms since they are accustomed to working remotely, swapping shifts, and working from home occasionally. This trend is likely to persist as younger generations mature, because they would want more from their jobs than simply being confined within the rigid bounds imposed by older generations.
To manage the Gen Z workforce, it is important to create opportunities for growth and development. Additionally, a dynamic and fun-filled environment should be established so that employees remain engaged and motivated. How can this be achieved? Communication! Communication is important to this Generation because it is the essential component of all their relationships. They believe that excellent communication is crucial for trust, conflict resolution and for fostering positive connections. In fact, they consider effective communication skills to be a crucial life skill.
Even though Gen Z and their phones may be inseparable, with the device being a tool to help manage their daily tasks, that doesn’t mean they are available to answer to people after office hours. They are more concerned about their well-being and happiness, and always set boundaries for the sake of their mental health. They want to be able to combine their work and personal lives, take time when needed, and be recognized for their efforts. Business owners should provide numerous opportunities for them to juggle their work and personal lives, and they should not confine their discussions about well-being to only physical health. They must be aware of the symptoms of stress and endeavor to foster a supportive work environment.
If you are look to tap into the potential of Gen Z employees, then you need to incorporate the world of technology into your company. Employees in Generation Z are comfortable working in a digital environment because they are tech-savvy. They are used to social media, smart phones, and other communication devices. As a result, they are highly sensitive to new technologies introduced into the workplace. Business owners should prioritize the effective use of new technologies in order to prevent alienating their employees
Gen Z employees are very autonomous and prioritize independence above all. They want to make their own decisions, work in a fast-paced workplace, and direct their own jobs. To that end, businesses must provide an environment in which employees feel empowered and capable of working independently. Otherwise, the new generation of employees will feel suffocated by a never-ending stream of repetitive work in which they are only a cog in the machine.
The destiny of any organizational workforce rests on the shoulders of a single generation. Gen Z! This requires organizations to adapt and change with the times. It entails being open-minded and recognizing that not everything will go as planned. In order to manage this generation successfully, employers need to understand their work ethics, challenges and expectations. This article has highlighted key points on how to do just that. So, are you prepared to handle the Gen Z workforce?
Stormzy and RAYE have teamed up for their sultry and 2000s-reminiscent single, ‘The Weekend.’ The track’s music video, directed by Omar Jones, features nostalgic elements reminiscent of Nelly’s ‘Hot In Here.’ Stormzy explained how his approach to songwriting has evolved with maturity.
‘The Weekend’ is Stormzy’s second single this year, while it marks RAYE’s third single. Stormzy is already working on new music, despite releasing his third studio album, ‘This Is What I Mean,’ in November last year. Meanwhile, RAYE’s debut album ‘My 21st Century Blues’ has received critical acclaim.
In other news, Stormzy and Wilfried Zaha are reportedly set to purchase AFC Croydon, and RAYE delivered an emotional speech about label troubles and sexual assault during her performance at this year’s Glastonbury.
FIFA have announced that the use of the rainbow coloured band in the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand and Australia is now banned. This is due to them wishing to avoid the conflict that took place last year (2022) in the Men’s World Cup.
The captains of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Denmark were going to wear the armbands to show that they stood with the LGBTQ community. However this caused an issue in Qatar as they have severe laws against the expression of LGBTQ love, where same sex relationships could result in up to 7 years imprisonment and possibly the death penalty.
To find another way of expressing solidarity, without over-ruling the the 2022 ban, FIFA has presented eight alternatives for the Women’s World Cup in Australia & New Zealand later this month. These include: Unite For Indigenous Peoples, Unite For Gender Equality, Unite For Education For All, Unite For Ending Violence Against Women, Unite For Peace, Football Is Joy Peace Hope Love Passion, Unite For Zero Hunger And The Unite For Inclusion Band.
The Unite For Inclusion band was FIFAs answer to the Rainbow and One Love bands. It has the same colours as the one love bands, red black and green (Pan-African flag) symbolising race and heritage and pink, yellow and blue (the pansexual flag), which represent all gender identities and sexual orientations. Why they have banned a flag that stood for the rights of the LGBTQ community and replaced it with another flag that partially stands for the same isn’t clear at all. A quote from Georgia Stanway shows that the football teams still stand with the LGBTQ even if they can’t change the rules: “If we can or we can’t wear the armband we know that we wanted to and we’ll stand by the fact that we wanted to.”
Good Morning, Afternoon & Evening to you all! It’s your boy Toren on Tour here to provide you guys with one thing – A go-to guide for where to travel and where to be in Europe this year, specifically for young black travellers and holiday goers looking to experience new places and have a great time whilst doing so! Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore or immerse yourselves in what Europe as a continent has to offer, I can guarantee that there’s something for everyone in this travel guide.
As you read through, I am going in-depth with five locations across Europe that are must-visit destinations. Some are hot spots, others are for those who love to hear about a nation’s history, whilst a few are usually favoured in the warmer seasons. However, what all have in common are their distinct cultural identities, beautiful in their unique ways and most importantly are places I deem safe, suitable and sealed with the stamp of approval from your boy who is always touring!
1. Madrid, Spain Madrid is a beautiful city and one thing that stands out for me about Spain’s capital is that it is a ‘rooftop’ city. Many of its bars, hotels and even restaurants provide scenic views for you to see Madrid’s landscape, stunning both day and night. I travelled to Madrid last year for a weekend Baecation, and it did not disappoint one bit! The city is extremely welcoming to tourists and as a black traveller, I felt comfortable, at ease and ultimately like I was at home away from home. Madrid offers some of the best tourist activities with the option of being able to go on a hot air balloon ride in Segovia, which is an hour’s drive away from the city centre where I stayed. The Sangria at literally every restaurant and bar was 10/10 and was my go-to drink 90% of the time! One activity that you have to make time for whilst in Madrid, is to go to a Flamenco Show! Flamenco shows are a combination of singing, music and dance and are a major part of Spanish culture and entertainment. Lastly, for those who love nature and scenic walks, El Retiro Park is a must-visit. El Retiro is a public park in Spain that previously belonged to the Spanish Monarchy up until the late 19th century. The park consists of many statues, monuments, a lake and galleries from time to time. Madrid is perfect for a weekend getaway and can be done as a solo trip, a couples getaway or one to travel to with a group of friends. With its offering of cultural activities, rooftop bars, nightlife and home to one of the greatest teams in the world Real Madrid – there is something for everybody! The weather is usually warm in the capital even through September and early October when prices tend to be a little cheaper!
2. Split, Croatia Croatia is a beautiful country with beautiful people and even better vibes! Upon journeying to Croatia when I travelled there a few years back, I was very aware that Croatia ultimately did not have any form of black community/population whatsoever. Although I was aware that in previous years Croatia had been host to a range of music festivals including Fresh Island & Outlook Festival, with quite a few of my friends having visited the country beforehand and giving positive reviews. Split is a phenomenal city, from its architecture and small market villages to its peaceful beaches. The locals in Croatia are extremely helpful and friendly and the food is second to none (I can only speak for Split though, don’t hold me accountable for the rest of the country!). One of the stand-out experiences that Croatia has to offer was a tour of Krka National Park that came with Wine tasting and food. The Park is massive and boasts waterfalls, plant life and the chance to go on a boat excursion – which I would highly recommend! I tried Octopus for the first time and met a lovely older couple who were also on holiday at the time. Croatia is an undiscovered gem, especially for black travellers as it’s not considered a desired destination, but it is worth a trip! The weather from spring into late September/October is usually warm and flights are going for as cheap as £52 in June. Depending on when you go it’s perfect for a mixed group holiday, as well as a couples holiday.
[Krka National Park – Taken By Toren in 2018]
3. Malta Malta, Malta! The place to be, especially for black travellers and holiday goers in their 20s I’d say in the last 2 years or so. Malta has quietly become a party destination for many events over the last few years, including the likes of DLT, with the event having had its second Malta offering this year and already putting the dates out for its third. I must say the most recent DLT was one for the ages – a movie! Malta is known for its picturesque landscapes, many of which are used as film locations. It’s also a perfect spot for seafood lovers as the country is big on seafood, due to it being surrounded by water, although it is also big on pizza and pasta due to its proximity to Italy and many Italians living in the country. However, a side note after having visited last week is that a lot of the country is underdeveloped, especially its buildings and roads, to my surprise, but the food, nightlife and activities make up for it! Malta uses Euros as its currency, but when doing my research and speaking to those that have travelled to Malta within the last year, the cost of living is considerably low and your money can stretch further than the usual European destinations, I’m talking €4.50 cocktails, you can’t complain! Malta is suitable for those who want to have a good time, but also experience fine dining and relaxation – with 35 Michelin-star restaurants located on the island! Finally, a big bonus for my U.K. travellers is that the Maltese drive on the same side as us – a rare find for European countries.
[A picture of Blue Lagoon in Malta sourced via Malta Paradise]
4. Paris, France Paris, the capital of France and one of the ‘litest’ cities in Europe if we’re ranking nightlife, vibes and culture, especially for black folk. For many Black Londoners Paris feels like a home away from home – it has a similar feel, and a heavy black population (just take a look at the French national team). The Eurostar makes the journey feel like a breeze, with flights to Paris also a viable option. Paris at night is a beautiful city, simply going for walks along the River Seine and getting to see the Eiffel light up at night can make your trip worth it. Buddha Bar is a restaurant I’d recommend for a 5-star pan Asian dish. One thing I must say is that you haven’t had a French fry until you’ve had a FRENCH FRY! Even down to the fries in McDonald’s, they just hit differently out there! Paris specifically has a massive African Community, for reasons we won’t go into today, but you can feel the influence in the clubs and via French music with the likes of Aya Nakamura, Koba LaD & MHD. A visit to Disneyland for those who have kids or those that want to relive their early childhoods is worth a trip & and for football fans and most importantly those that want to see the likes of Mbappe & Neymar, some of the world’s best. A ticket to watch PSG at Parc Des Princes is very attainable. Ultimately Paris is a must-do and 100% recommendation for young black travellers. Whether you go on a solo trip, as a group, with family or on a couples holiday, you can cater your trip to the city of love for your palette.
[Champs Elysees – Taken by Toren in January 2023]
5. The Greek Islands Last, but not least Greece & It’s Islands! Santorini & Mykonos are the two ‘high-end’ Greek islands. The two are usually deemed honeymoon destinations due to their notable list of 5-Star Hotels. I took a trip to Zante a few years back to mark my anniversary and it was most definitely a trip to remember! The Greek islands gave a similar vibe to Split in that the locals were extremely friendly and welcoming, especially the hotel staff and tour guides when it came to excursions. The Greek Islands are where you go for relaxation and rejuvenation. A holiday to unwind and destress, however, what I loved about my trip is that with one side of Zante came the beaches, restaurants, clear oceans and great weather, but on the other side of the island there was a strip – full of bars, clubs and arcade style street games. A thumbs up for black travellers as a holiday to look forward to. One thing I will say is to look into the islands and decide which island is the right one for you! Each has its own identity and features, whilst some are more expensive than others, however no matter the island – for the majority of the year you can guarantee good weather, good food and a good time!
[A picture of Santorini sourced via TripAdvisor]
There we have it people. 5 destinations for black travellers and holiday goers to visit in Europe. These all have the Toren on Tour stamp of approval and are one’s to add to your bucket list for 2023 and beyond! If any of you do manage to take a trip, let us know what you thought and give your boy a shout with your trip highlight. Until next time, stay touring!
Bea Anderson’s talent and dedication as an R&B singer-songwriter have propelled her to new heights in the music industry. From her early love of music in South East London to attending The BRIT School and studying Music Management with Studio Production at Buckinghamshire New University, Bea’s journey has been one of passion and perseverance.
Despite personal challenges, including her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Bea Anderson has remained committed to using music as a tool for good. She has set up studios to provide a space for young people to create music and has visited referral units across London to spread positivity through music.
Bea’s debut single ‘Easy’ was released in February 2021 and has surpassed one million streams in less than nine months. Her EP ‘Eden,’ released in May 2021, showcases her authentic, unapologetic, stripped-back R&B sound with a catchy ingredient. ‘Easy’ was featured on Spotify’s editorial cover of ‘Fresh Finds,’ cementing Bea’s place as an emerging artist to watch. ‘The Eden Project’ represents the opening chapter of Bea’s music career, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. With her impressive skill set, drive, and devotion to inspiring others through her music, Bea Anderson is poised to shape the music world profoundly for many years to come.
This exciting release features not only “Sprinter” but also three fresh tracks, including the intriguingly titled “Our 25th Birthday.” Interestingly, the two artists share a close age proximity, with Dave celebrating his birthday on the EP’s release date (June 5th) and Central Cee’s birthday occurring the day before.
Dave’s musical prowess has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Mercury and Brit Awards for his debut album, ‘Psychodrama,’ released in 2019. His 2021 follow-up, ‘We’re All Alone in This Together,’ garnered a MOBO Award and secured him another Brit Award for Best Hip Hop/Grime/Rap Act.
Central Cee made a splash in 2022 with his chart-topping mixtape, ’23,’ which featured the smash hit “Obsessed With You.” He continued his success with his most popular song to date, “Doja,” and earlier in 2023, he unveiled the single “Me & You.”
In the coming weeks, Central Cee is scheduled to perform on the Other Stage at Glastonbury and make an appearance at the Governors Ball Festival in New York.
Now, let’s delve into the track listing for ‘Split Decision‘:
Central Cee x Dave ‘Sprinter’ released last night. The long-awaited moment that fans have been eagerly anticipating has finally arrived! Central Cee and Dave, two influential British artists, have unveiled their latest masterpiece, “Sprinter,” a fresh and exciting collaboration that is sure to make waves in the music industry.
Both Central Cee and Dave have established themselves as some of the UK’s most prominent talents, having successfully propelled the distinct UK sound to global recognition. This collaboration between these two titans is nothing short of monumental and marks an extraordinary day for the entire music scene.
The creation of “Sprinter” involved a talented team of individuals including Jo Caleb, Jonny Leslie, Jim Legxacy, TR, Kyle Evans, and Dave himself, who is also known as Santan. With such an impressive lineup of producers, it comes as no surprise that the production of “Sprinter” exudes exceptional quality, meeting and surpassing the high expectations we have for these accomplished artists.
Now, it’s time to experience the brilliance of “Sprinter” for yourself. Listen to the track above and allow its captivating melodies and thought-provoking lyrics to immerse you in a musical journey like no other. Get ready to be swept away by the sheer talent and creativity that Central Cee and Dave bring to the table with this incredible collaboration.
Madi Saskia: The hometown hero. Born in the late ’90s and based in Smethwick, Madi Saskia is an exciting talent emerging from Birmingham’s creative scene. Influenced by Jhené Aiko, Erykah Badu, and Marsha Ambrosius, her style combines socially conscious lyrics with an R’n’B flair.
With just under six years of music-making under her belt, Saskia has launched her own event called “Madi’s Lean Up Ting,” aiming to spotlight misunderstood and overlooked artists. Giving Madi Saskia the title of ‘hometown hero’. She is undeniably an artist to watch in the coming years.
Madi Saskia’s music blends socially conscious themes with soulful R’n’B melodies. Drawing inspiration from influential artists, her songs delve into societal issues, personal experiences, and deep emotions, reflecting her commitment to meaningful music.
The future holds great promise for Madi Saskia as she prepares to release her debut project. Her distinctive blend of socially conscious lyrics and R’n’B influences continues to captivate audiences, positioning her as an emerging force. With her talent and dedication to highlighting overlooked artists, Saskia is set to make a significant impact not only within the local music scene but also on a broader scale.
