On Saturday 18th October 2008, the London Marriott Hotel, in Canary Wharf played host to the 2nd Annual Woodson Barrow Luncheon.

This annual event is organised by not-for-profit organisation c-a-n-i Academy, who strive to address the social and emotional needs of our future generations.

Set against the back drop of rising youth crime and anti-social behaviour, the Woodson Barrow Role Model Luncheon aims to inspire young people to be the best they can be and become responsible shareholders in their future and communities.

Over 200 adults and young people gathered to participate in what was an enjoyable, inspiring, powerful, heart-warming and for many, a very emotional event. The aim of the Luncheon was to inspire and motivate the young attendees, reinforcing the benefits of education, and opening their minds to the powerful benefits of positive thinking and goal planning.

The young people were treated to a fabulous three-course lunch, motivational speeches, great entertainment and had a chance to talk “up close and personal” with a number of successful adults.

A reflective minute silence was held during the luncheon in memory of Daniel De-Gale who sadly recently passed. One of the tables at the event was also named after Daniel, which will serve as permanent tribute to his memory.

A comment from an appreciative parent summed up the effect that the luncheon can have on the lives of the young people who attended:- “Thank you so much for what you have done today! So far I have spoken to my son Miles and grandson Jordan and they are floating on air. They are buzzing with lots of inspiration. They feel like men who can achieve anything. Thanks again to you and everyone involved" Carmen Jones

From the other testimonies we have received, the event was a great success and all objectives of the day were exceeded. The young people were inspired and their minds were opened to endless new possibilities as they mixed with lawyers, doctors, teachers, working professionals, successful business owners and celebrities.

Here are some of those testimonies:

"Hi Ken, As usual the event was excellent. I am honoured to be one of your chosen Role Models. The kids were hungry to find out about our what we do, our experiences, journeys, advice, guidance and words of wisdom. They really want to make a difference and this event is one of the stepping stones to help them realise their potential. I thoroughly enjoyed the event and you can count on me for my continued support. Well done and congrats."
Paulette West MBE

"Thank you very much for your vision and hard work. The Woodson Barrow luncheon 2008 was very inspirational for the young people I brought along." Jane Ebberson

"The Woodson Barrow Luncheon was brilliant! The young people were an inspiration!" Lee Jasper

"Just to let you know my daughter had a fantastic time at the lunch. She found it an inspiring and enjoyable event. A a parent is filled me with pride seeing Alysia on stage, being confident to make a public declaration of how the role models and her peers helped her to complete the Action Plan. Respect to you for your vision, energy, passion and continued effort to make a difference." Dennis Tot

Rudolph Walker OBE from Eastenders was present as one of the role models to offer some advice about a career in the media and left the young people with some valuable tips for success.

Another adult role model commented “Congratulations on another successful event. I really enjoyed meeting the inspired youth and sharing some of my life lessons. Seeing the fire in their eyes definitely convinced me that this event was worth it and would have a profound impact on their lives.” Aleck Matambo

As the event drew to a close, everyone was treated to entertainment from TYPAH and singer Fola who had the crowd cheering for more.

Ken Barnes, CEO and founder of c-a-n-i Academy CIC said “This year’s luncheon exceeded our expectations. Seeing a room full of young Black men and women looking so fine and acting in such a positive manner was emotional. 

The next activity planned is the Woodson Barrow Luncheon careers day which will be held in November. This event will only be open to the young people that attended the luncheon.

I look forward to the continued growth of this powerful and much needed event.”

We would like to extend a big thanks to all our sponsors and supporters. Without their support the 2008 Woodson Barrow Luncheon would not have been possible.

2008 Sponsors & Supporters

2008 CEI's (Concerned Enough Individuals)

• Rasheed Ogunlaru
• Jacqueline McNish x 2
• Anthony Henry
• Ruth Goddard
• Basil Arrindell
• Lloyd Dixon
• Dawn Christie
• Azra Awan
• Shafiq Awan
• Dawn Hill
• Dionne Jude
• G Pacquette
• Marie Parrie
• Jason Nelson
• Amanda Howells
• Nicholas Hallett
• Mott MacDonald Ltd
• Larna Bernard
• Paulette West
• CARJ
• Sandra Jackson

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c-a-n-i Academy is a not-for-profit company.