Dynamite helps youth scheme’s explosive start

POP star Ms Dynamite has played gigs in some of the biggest and best-known venues around the world, but on Saturday she was back in her old neighbourhood and singing on a slightly smaller stage – the Highgate Newton Community Centre.
She was among special guests at the launch of a new youth project aimed at getting 13 to 25-year-olds involved in healthy activities and skills training.
The award-winning singer – real name Niomi McLean-Daley – took to the stage in Bertram Street for the opening of Phiz ’n’ Biz, bringing the crowd to their feet as she performed her hit single Dy-Na-Mi-Tee. She grew up in Highgate Newtown and was a pupil at neighbouring Brookfield Primary School.
Rapper Skinnyman and X-Factor runner-up Andy Abraham also joined in the celebrations, meeting fans and signing autographs.
There was a whole host of entertainment on show, including displays from the London Eclipse cheerleaders, football freestylers and martial arts performances. Youngsters also got to join artists from the Sidelines Project in a graffiti workshop.
Funded by the London Development Agency, Phiz ’n’ Biz will be based at the Fresh Gym and Juice Bar in Chester Road. The project’s main aim will be to steer young people from across Camden and Islington away from crime by offering them the chance to specialise in something that interests them.
Service manager Charles Browne said: “More than 300 people showed their support on Saturday, which is fantastic. It has been draining putting everything together because we are under-resourced. We’re always looking for more volunteers to help us out.
“Phiz ’n’ Biz is here to empower young people and give them the confidence to take on adult responsibilities and make a quality life for themselves.”
STEVE BARNETT