Learning to Unlearn!

By Shola Oladipo, Food for Purpose CEO 

Hello friends,

Isn’t it nice to see a bit of Spring sun! I know the UK weather has been a bit topsy-turvy - but the sun has recently beautified our days, and it's lovely to see the flowers peeping through and finally appearing.

As I approach the end of my thesis journey, I am reflecting on all that I have learned. Over the past five years, I have come to realise that I have evolved in my thinking and views about the work I have done. Even my processing and analysis, and the scholars whom I revered, have changed over time. It’s amazing how the wisdom I applied years ago has been enhanced, as I progressed on this journey.

To be frank, I am convinced that learning is not just about academics and accumulating knowledge over a few years, but rather a journey of learning to unlearn and relearn; even more valuable is knowing what and when to unlearn and relearn!

At the risk of sounding very nerdy – I have been reading about the principles of lifelong learning and, in particular, the importance of unlearning and relearning. And yeah, you guessed right, there are oodles of philosophic sayings to quantify the need to complement our learning with unlearning. This one by Alvin Toffler got my attention:

“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”

Unlearning is an essential process of examining our beliefs and being open to considering other perspectives. It asks us to be humble, recognise that we don't know everything, and be prepared to let go of our existing beliefs and reassess them based on new information. It's a great way to keep learning and growing throughout our lives! By being open to change and new ideas, we can expand our knowledge and understanding of the world around us.

Sorry for the cliché but, ‘change is a constant’, and staying up to date is crucial. That's where relearning comes in. Relearning means learning new skills, acquiring new knowledge, or gaining new perspectives that align with current needs and demands. It could mean updating your existing knowledge and adapting to new things, especially new tech. By embracing relearning, we are in a much better position to proactively respond to life’s changes and position ourselves for future opportunities and success. Relearning requires a willingness to step outside our comfort zones and seek new learning opportunities. That means being serious about trashing that ‘duvet-coated’, ‘same old - same old’ stance, and doing something new.

By relearning, we remain relevant and purposeful in a rapidly changing world.

Remember, you are destined for greatness; that involves learning, unlearning, and relearning!

Blessings and peace to you!

• CEO Says - Learning to Unlearn!

• News

• HCI News

• Physical Activity Tips - National Walking Month 2024

• Recipe of the Month - Salad Dressings

• A-Z of Soul Food - T is for Tamarind

• Diabetes Tips - Diabetes Myths Debunked - Part 3

• Ordrs Cooking Session

  • Last month, we delivered a session for adults living with a disability in Lambeth alongside Ordrs and the Disability Advice Service Lambeth (DASL)! The cooking session was led by our Diabetes Lead, Modupe Peters with support from Mahmoud, our volunteer and registered dietitian.

    The recipe was Stewed Peas - a hearty stew made with red kidney beans and various herbs and spices. The group loved it and we had a wonderful time!

• Team Away Day

  • Last month's team away day was an absolute blast! We delved deep into discovering our best traits and what makes each of us special. It was an enlightening journey, recognising the unique strengths we bring to the table.

    Alongside the fun, we dedicated significant time to strategising for the future of our business, embodying the essence of FFP 2.0.

    Our mission, "Playing to our strength - the right people doing the right task," resonated profoundly as we charted a course for growth and success.

    With clarity and unity, we're poised to harness our collective strengths and drive our business to new heights!

• Diabetes Study

  • The University of Southampton is undertaking a study around how Black African / Caribbean people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition

  • You must be 18+ and live in the UK

  • It will take between 45 - 60 minutes of your time

  • Participants will receive a £15 ‘Thank You’ voucher

National Days / Weeks / Month - May

• 1st-31st - National Walking Month

• 9th-13th - Mental Health Awareness Week

• 17th - World Hypertension Day

• 29th - World Digestive Health Day

April was a month filled with excitement as we made significant strides in our mission to empower churches in Lambeth and Southwark. We hosted two sign-up events for the Healthy Church Initiative at Hope Christian Centre and Trinity Baptist Church West Norwood. These dynamic gatherings marked the beginning of a transformative journey for these communities.

But the momentum doesn't stop there! We're thrilled to announce that there are still spaces available for free enrolment in the Healthy Church Initiative for churches in Lambeth and Southwark. This 6-week program is tailored specifically for Black majority churches, offering invaluable tools for growth and development.

If you're ready to take your church to new heights and join us on this transformative journey, don't hesitate to reach out. Whether by phone at 020 7101 3170 or email at admin@foodforpurpose.org, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Together, let's build healthier, stronger communities rooted in faith and purpose.

National Walking Month 2024

By Precious Oladipo
FFP Director & Physical Activity Lead

Welcome to National Walking Month! Throughout May, we invite you to join us in celebrating the joys and benefits of walking. Walking is a fantastic way to stay active, improve your mood, and connect with the world around you. Our goal for this month-long challenge is to inspire you to get moving and embrace the many benefits of walking. We encourage participants to aim for 10,000 steps a day, but remember, every step counts towards a healthier you!

Week 1: Walk for Health: For the first week of National Walking Month, prioritise walking for the sake of your physical and mental health. Aim for longer walks or increase your pace to get your heart rate up and boost your fitness levels. Focus on breathing deeply and taking in the fresh air.

Extra Challenge: Practise discipline by setting specific walking goals for yourself each day and sticking to them. Whether it's a certain number of steps, distance, or duration, challenge yourself to meet or exceed your goals consistently throughout the week.

Week 2: Walk in Kindness: This week, focus on acts of kindness during your walks. Whether it's smiling at strangers, helping a neighbour with groceries, or donating to a charity, let kindness guide your steps.

Extra Challenge: Perform at least one random act of kindness every day. It could be as simple as leaving an encouraging note on a park bench or buying a coffee for the person behind you in line.

Week 3: Walk in Gratitude: Take time during your walks this week to reflect on the things you're grateful for in your life. Focus on the positive aspects of your surroundings and the blessings you have. Let gratitude guide your steps.

Extra Challenge: Extend your gratitude beyond yourself by performing random acts of kindness during your walks. Whether it's smiling at strangers, offering assistance, or simply spreading positivity, look for opportunities to brighten someone else's day.

Week 4: Walk for Connection: Use your walks this week as an opportunity to connect with others. Invite friends, family members, or coworkers to join you for walks and meaningful conversations. Focus on building deeper relationships and fostering connections.

Extra Challenge: Show discipline in your communication and interactions by actively listening to others during your walks. Practice empathy and understanding, and make an effort to genuinely connect with those around you.

Get involved in the National Walking Month challenge by sharing your walking adventures on social media! Tag us and use the hashtag #WalkWithPurpose to inspire others and celebrate your journey towards a healthier, happier you. Let's step into May with determination, compassion, and a commitment to walking towards a brighter future together!

Salad Dressings

Spring is here and so are salads!

A good salad resembles a vibrant rainbow – from deep greens to radiant reds, sunny yellows, bold blues and rich purples – a feast for the eyes and to the palate. A well-crafted salad is a burst of nutrition containing complex carbohydrates, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Imagine a bowl filled with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocados, spicy red onions all coming together in a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. The dressing binds it all together, adding layers of flavour and enhancing the overall texture of the salad.

Salad dressings can contribute to the overall nutritional profile of a salad. While store-bought dressings are convenient, they can contain high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar. So, it's important to eat those dressings in moderation.

Making your own dressing is as simple as ABC and you only need ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to add flavour without compromising on health. The next time you are thinking what to drizzle on your salad, try these quick recipes and transform your salad into a mega powerhouse that not only fuels your body but also makes your taste buds dance!

Lemon-oregano Vinaigrette

Add this burst of citrusy freshness and elevate your salads. It pairs well with fresh greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes. It is very versatile too and can be used as a marinade for chicken and fish before grilling.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• ½ tablespoon of dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

1. Juice the lemon in a small bowl. Remove any seeds.

2. Add the olive oil into the bowl and whisk together until combined.

3. Add dried oregano as well as salt and pepper to taste. Whisk again thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, oregano, salt, or black pepper according to your preference.

5. Let the dressing rest for about 15 mins to allow the flavours to infuse.

6. This dressing can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Remember to shake well before use.

Creamy Yoghurt Dressing

Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious creamy and herby yoghurt dressing, adding a burst of

citrusy freshness and herbal notes to your salads. It is a dressing that is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• ½ cup plain Greek yoghurt

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)

• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley/ ½ tablespoon of dried parsley

• 1 tablespoon of honey

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

1. Finely chop the parsley (if using fresh parsley).

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the Greek yoghurt, lemon juice and balsamic vinegar (if using) until well combined.

3. Stir in the honey to add a touch of sweetness to the dressing.

4. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dressing.

6. Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, honey, salt, or pepper to suit your taste preferences.

7. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to blend before serving.

Tip:

You can also use it as a dip for fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.

This month, we’re celebrating Tamarind for the letter T!

Tamarind is native to tropical Africa and Asia. The tamarind tree produces brown pod-like fruits that contains the sweet tangy pulp which is used in many cuisines around the world.

Nutritionally, tamarind:

• Contains various B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and folate (B9), which play crucial roles in energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production.

• Provides minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining electrolyte balance, bone health, and muscle function.

• Is a good source of dietary fibre, including both soluble and insoluble fibre, which promotes digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and supports weight management.

• Contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidants that help neutralise harmful free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Where to buy

• Available in some larger supermarkets, particularly those with extensive international/world food sections.

• Available in many Asian supermarkets – may be found in different forms e.g. fresh pods, and tamarind paste.

Diabetes Myths Debunked - Part 3

By Modupe Peters
FFP Director & Diabetes Lead

Welcome to our final part of ‘Diabetes Myths Debunked’! In this edition, we will round up our series on busting myths about diabetes. There is a lot of misinformation out there about diabetes and it is very important that you have all the facts you need to help you better manage the condition.

MYTH: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar

FACT: The chances of developing type 2 diabetes are greater if you are overweight or obese and often, a high-sugar diet is a high calorie diet. Having a high calorie diet can lead to weight gain. Type 1 diabetes isn’t caused by diet or lifestyle choices unlike type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes develops when the cells that produces insulin in the pancreas are destroyed by the immune system. It is not true that diabetes is caused by sugar.

MYTH: Type 2 is ‘mild’ diabetes

FACT: There is no such thing as ‘mild diabetes’, even if you don’t have to take medication. Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition, and if not properly controlled can lead to diabetes complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, sight loss, amputation, and nerve damage.

MYTH: Type 2 diabetes only affects fat people

FACT: As mentioned above, the chances of developing type 2 diabetes is greater if you are overweight or obese. It is however untrue that type 2 diabetes only affects overweight/obese people. Type 2 diabetes is linked to insulin resistance (the body not being able to use insulin produced effectively). Therefore, the people that carry more weight around the middle section of the body are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

And there you have it folks! We’ve reached the end of our ‘Diabetes Myths Debunked’ journey, and what a ride it’s been! Throughout this series, we’ve dismantled misconceptions one by one, shedding light on the truths behind diabetes. Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing your health. So, armed with these facts, go forth and conquer any lingering myths with confidence. Here’s to a future where misinformation about diabetes becomes a thing of the past. Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep spreading the truth!