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<title>Cultiv8 Recruitment Blog</title>
<link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/</link>
<description>Cultiv8 Recruitment Blog</description>
<language>en</language>
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        <url>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/templates/default/img/s9y_banner_small.png</url>
        <title>RSS: Cultiv8 Recruitment Blog - Cultiv8 Recruitment Blog</title>
        <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/</link>
        <width>100</width>
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<item>
    <title>Success comes at a unfortunate price, when circumstances change.</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/29-Success-comes-at-a-unfortunate-price,-when-circumstances-change..html</link>

    <description>
        As you strive to be successful, you can often make decisions that have an impact way down the line - this is the unfortunate price for following a passion or vision when you do not plan effectively - this breeds experience and knowledge to help you do better in the furture!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I received a quite shocking email today from a business whom has been working with me for the past 3 years - In short, they did some work for me which i have been pleased with but unfortunately, like many other businesses that were hit by the recession, I was not in a position to settle with them. at the timescales agreed.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Now...if i was totally unprofessional and not a person of integrity, it would have been easy to dodge my responsibilities with them but i have always contacted them to explain how things are and try to make amends. They are running a business too and so i must play my part to help them become successful. Personal circumstances should not affect your business...but life has a way of testing that theory when you least expect it! &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
This can result in those who you trusted to then see you in a different light, which is often sad but a true and stark reality.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I must make it clear that - I LOVE HELPING OTHER BUSINESSES TO GROW, BUT I AM ALSO A SMALL BUSINESS and THEREFORE OPEN TO THE SAME ISSUES, NEGATIVES and PAIN AS OTHERS. This is an unfortunate by-product of wanting to be successful in business.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The problem with that, is that there becomes a line where your personal relationship crosses business concerns and unfortunately, this happened here. I would be the first to hold my hands up and say that the situation was not ideal for both parties but i also believe that my honesty and willingness to be open and completely transparent, should be enough as i continue to help their business.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I am sorry that this has not been the case but i see this as an opportunity for learning....&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Lesson learnt?  &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
- Seek to ensure that all that you need is in place before you sign on the dotted line!&lt;br /&gt;
- Business will always be business above anything else!&lt;br /&gt;
- Dont be afraid to face the consequences, especially when you know you have acted in the most professional and positive way that you can!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Till the next time... 
    </description>
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    <title>JOEL CROWNED BYPY 2010 for RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING!!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/28-JOEL-CROWNED-BYPY-2010-for-RECRUITMENT-AND-TRAINING!!.html</link>

    <description>
        YESSSSSSS!!!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
After designing the services and idea of Cultiv8 Solutions on a post-it-note in 2005, I have been won the Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Award 2010 in my chosen category of Recruitment and Training!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
For so long, the late nights and the worries, the arguments and the tears, the highs and the lows have played a part in shaping my journey. I have wanted to give up so many times but my passion for helping others, be the best that they can be, has always stayed with me and pushed me, even at times i may not have realised!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
People say that you will never make it or you are &#039;selling out&#039; because you want to follow your dreams - but you must never stop!! When the roads gets tough, thats when your travels really start.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
We live in a society that ensures that we work hard to achieve..so we must, but be smarter about how we do that..&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I want to thank all those people (you know who you are or if you are not!!) who have stuck with me, my clients who continue to chose me over others because they like me and my services (i hope!!) and the people who tried to hold me back - your hate, jealously, insecurity or whatever simply fueled my motivation to succeed and win! BIG THANK YOU TO YOU.....&lt;img src=&quot;http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/templates/default/img/emoticons/smile.png&quot; alt=&quot;:-)&quot; style=&quot;display: inline; vertical-align: bottom;&quot; class=&quot;emoticon&quot; /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The journey of helping others continues as per usual...but its nice to see a little sunshine sometimes, instead of feeling all the bumps in the road!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Till the next time...JG 
    </description>
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    <title>Small businesses need digital support to survive.....</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/27-Small-businesses-need-digital-support-to-survive......html</link>

    <description>
        In this day and age of digital technology, social media and engagement, small businesses have the opportunity to grow and excel beyond the figures forecasted in their business plans!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Would you be willing to help one of our partner organisations to GROW SMALL BUSINESSES WHO ARE IN TROUBLE??&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
BACK THEIR IDEA NOW -  https://www.takeonesmallstep.co.uk/Entry/View/2349&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
They need your support!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
 
    </description>
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    <title>Traditional university asks for support to help ethnic minority graduates gain employment</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/26-Traditional-university-asks-for-support-to-help-ethnic-minority-graduates-gain-employment.html</link>

    <description>
        &lt;strong&gt;Can you use your experiences to help ethnic minority university graduates excel in the world of business?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Would you take the chance to support them if you could?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
10 Mentors from the Black and Ethnic Minority community are needed for an exclusive pilot Enterprise Programme.&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The University of Birmingham in conjunction with Cultiv8 Solutions and funded by the Alumni Fund, are looking for 10 BME working professionals to take part in a ground-breaking pilot project, focused on reducing the lack of business and employment opportunities for BME graduates.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Mentors must be an employee or a business owner working within the private, public, voluntary or creative sector and be willing to meet with a selected student for a min of once a month over a three month period. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Prospective mentors will be interviewed in July and August 2010 and the final 10 mentors chosen will be invited to a VIP reception, taking place at the University of Birmingham, in September 2010.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Chosen mentors will be officially registered with the University of Birmingham as a preferred Local Mentor Enterprise Partner, provided with six-months free executive coaching by Cultiv8 Solutions and will be highlighted in local press and media.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
For further information and to apply to join this exciting initiative, please send an email of interest with your contact details to:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Joel Graham-Blake, Managing Director of Cultiv8 Solutions&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Email: joel@cultiv8solutions.com  or Telephone: 07983 991 943&lt;br /&gt;
 
    </description>
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    <title>BYPY Nomination 2010 - second time lucky!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/25-BYPY-Nomination-2010-second-time-lucky!.html</link>

    <description>
        Hi all&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
It seems that once in a while, the world gives you a nice smile and a pat on the back for the hard grind and sacrifices that we make....&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Fingers crossed...&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
http://www.birminghamyoungprofessional.co.uk/content/recruitment-training&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I hope to do you all proud!!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Till the next time... 
    </description>
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    <title>This programme helped me, can it help you and your business too?</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/24-This-programme-helped-me,-can-it-help-you-and-your-business-too.html</link>

    <description>
        As an advocate of self-development, I took part in a free 12 Month Business Coaching programme around 18 months ago - I found it fascinating and it really helped me to focus on my key business strengths and on where i wanted my business to go!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Created by Deloitte, Birmingham City Council and the Academy of Chief Executives, they are offering a lighter six month version of the scheme to 90 businesses based in Birmingham.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The criteria are:&lt;br /&gt;
- Your business must have a Birmingham (B??) postcode&lt;br /&gt;
- Your business must have been trading for a minimum of 6 months&lt;br /&gt;
- THATS IT!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Please find full details below but if you fit the above, contact the team NOW - &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;strong&gt;Take the time to invest in yourself for FREE!! After, you are the heart and soul of your business!!&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Are you seeking to grow your business but are not sure how to go about it? &lt;br /&gt;
Do you need some help adapting your business offer to the current conditions&lt;br /&gt;
in the market?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
You could be eligible to receive free business support valued over £5,000.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Starting in March 2010, 90 companies trading for six months or more will have&lt;br /&gt;
the opportunity to work with Deloitte and the Academy for Chief Executives&lt;br /&gt;
to build customised development plans and receive dedicated coaching and&lt;br /&gt;
mentorship for up to 12 months. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The programme is designed for entrepreneurs&lt;br /&gt;
and management teams seeking to navigate their companies through the&lt;br /&gt;
necessary – and often rewarding – challenges of growth.  &lt;br /&gt;
 &lt;br /&gt;
If you are seeking to bring your company to the next level or need sustained&lt;br /&gt;
guidance on particular business issues, you could stand to gain real&lt;br /&gt;
benefits from participating in the Stimulating Demand High Growth Programme&lt;br /&gt;
(SDHG).  &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
As part of this free service you are invited to find out more by joining us&lt;br /&gt;
at &lt;strong&gt;an introductory half day event on either 23 March 2010 or 22 April 2010&lt;br /&gt;
at the Deloitte office, 4 Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2HZ. &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
 &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;strong&gt;If you would like to attend either of these events or simply wish to find&lt;br /&gt;
out more, please email  &lt;mailto:birminghamSDHG@deloitte.co.uk&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
birminghamSDHG@deloitte.co.uk or call 0121 695 5580.&lt;/strong&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
 &lt;http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/sdhg.bcc&gt; www.birmingham.gov.uk/sdhg.bcc&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The SDHG programme is free to all participants thanks to grant support from&lt;br /&gt;
the Working Neighbourhoods Fund. The programme is delivered by Birmingham&lt;br /&gt;
City Council and Deloitte with the Academy for Chief Executives.  &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Please refer this programme to other eligible Birmingham based businesses.&lt;br /&gt;
 
    </description>
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<item>
    <title>What we are does not matter, but who we are does.</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/23-What-we-are-does-not-matter,-but-who-we-are-does..html</link>

    <description>
        Question:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Why were we born on earth? &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
My eight year old asked me this question yesterday and i do not felt i gave him a truly genuine answer - i think i babbled something about me leaving a footprint for others to step into etc etc. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I dont think he bought it completely because he then highlighted the fact that my feet are 10 sizes bigger than his, so his feet would never fit, but hey, he did say he knows that i work so hard for him and the family and he loves me for it and gave me the sweetest hug, so i must be heading in the right direction!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
What he does not know is that i have spent the past 24 hours, really pondering on that question....&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I am so passionate about helping others that in the past, i have been hospitalised, awarded, ridiculed and spat on for it..ive nearly lost the most important people in my life and have gained some fantastic people in my life for it...i have even got myself a tattoo to keep reminding me why i do it...yet i still cannot truly answer that question...until 2.10pm this afternoon!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I was on my way to my local Greggs (i know its wrong but the roast chicken bakes and iced buns were calling my name), when i saw this old lady dragging along one of those old tartan shopping trolleys..and yes, it did have the accompanying squeaky wheel! The high street was busy and people were just zipping past her, left and right, as if she was the cause of their delays. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
But she just carried on, dragging her trolley, going about her business...&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
As she was walking towards me, i saw someone knock her trolley by accident but which unbalanced her, sending her to the ground. I rushed over to help pick her up but a young boy, no more than 12 years old, got there just before me. As he held her right arm, i held her left arm and we helped her get back on her feet..&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
As she steadied herself, she started crying. I asked what was wrong and she said that i reminded her of her son and the boy reminded her of her grandson who both past away in a car accident five years ago. She said that her son hardly spoke to her after a family dispute a few years before and had kept the grandson away, but she always loved them both and never got to tell them properly before they past away....then she said thanks again, took out a tissue from her pocket, and just walked on.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
What struck me at that precise moment, is the answer to my question: &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
We are here to show love and kindness to others, regardless of who or what they are, without guidelines, without rules, without prejudice. Why? because our lives are forever interwined and no matter what we experience, we are part of one human race and without helping each other when we can, we all suffer.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
My meeting that old lady story was short but so powerful for me, to the point where im now going home, to give my son the answer he should have got yesterday...&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Till the next time. 
    </description>
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    <title>2009...A true lesson in survival</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/22-2009...A-true-lesson-in-survival.html</link>

    <description>
        They say that we, as humans, are the most resilient and innovative creatures on earth - that we possess the skills and qualities to overide any obstacles that come in our way; that we are the supermen and superwomen who have been born on earth to create legacies for the future!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Life is a game that we play by the rules that we feel are appropriate at the time...we try to achieve our goals and break through the barriers that we face in our physical lives with great gusto and a sense of purpose because that is the only way we can survive. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
We have no other choice! Our emotions take over our sense of logic (most of the time!) without us even realising it, whether this is because of our families, work, friends or any other factor that forms the situations that place us in a position of vunerability - that has been my conclusion of this year. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
There is great power in fighting for a cause, for what you believe in. But how many times do we forget our vision and get sucked into the day to day struggles that you face? How many times do you blame others for your own negative mindset  - walking out of the house to cool off or you grab that bottle of wine so you can have a drink to forget all about it or sit in the living room with a face that could command thunder and lightning to reign on us all??&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Or is that just me??&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Its so hard to make a difference in your own little way - people who were once your trusted allies being to hate on you, jealously becomes the norm, complete strangers feel they have a right to dictate how you should conduct your life and those who you love the most often feel the brunt of your frustration. It is not fair yet we all can claim to be guilty of it...dont lie, you know that you have dark days too! Dont you??&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
But what i have come to realise, time and time again, is that nothing worth doing is ever easy! &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
In fact it is more easier to go and do the things that you want to do, to spare you from the pain, sacrifice and comittment to do the things that you don&#039;t what to do - however we sometimes seem to forget that what we dont want to do, will actually bring us closer to our goal and release the rays of sunshine that are often masked by the dark clouds of reality.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Without barriers and struggles, we fail to build character. We fail to build self-awareness. We fail to connect with ourselves. We fail to love ourselves enough to treat ourselves with the respect and care, that we so desperately want to inspire others to feel. We fail to dig deep and find the potential of power that lies within us. Without barriers and struggles, we can lose sight of the bigger picture and not realise that every little thing that irritates and frustrates us is actually a brush stroke in the beautiful painting of our lives and in the lives of others. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
It is important to embrace reality, EVERY SECOND WE CAN, for that is when we are truly connected to the world - there is no escape nor opportunity to look for it, when we are fully aware and prepared to deal with whatever life says we must contend with.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
2009....I feel this has been the year when i have awakened the giant of success that lies within me! I have realised that no matter the walls in my way, i will break them! No matter the pace of rivers that flow, i will cross them! No matter the height of the mountains, i will climb them!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Why...because every step that i take will force me to learn more about myself. To learn more about others. To find new ways that help me to navigate the treachery of the unknown challenges that i will face time and time and time again!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
As we move into 2010, i encourage you to reflect on 2009 and ask yourself these four questions:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
- What have i learned about myself this year?&lt;br /&gt;
- What have i positively achieved for others?&lt;br /&gt;
- What are the things must i change?&lt;br /&gt;
- What is the legacy that i wish to leave behind?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The thin line between success and failure does not depend on finding out what the world can give you, but more on how you can use your uniqueness to give to the world.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Till the next time.....&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
 
    </description>
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    <title>Tee off down the diversity fairway!!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/21-Tee-off-down-the-diversity-fairway!!.html</link>

    <description>
        Hi all,&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
To say that this year has been a rollercoaster is an understatement - from two personal award nominations for my two businesses, to having to find employment, to being asked to open a youth centre with the Lord Mayor, to discovering a whole new passion....crazy but character building shall we say?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Its funny, but as i reflect on the year, i realise that my passion for helping others has increased to a whole new level. It was as if my personal sacrifices were put there on purpose, to ensure that my vision for the future remains clear - a some kind of cleansing process to make me really understand and appreciate the difficulties of striving for excellence!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
However, let me tell you about the highlight of this year which flags up exactly what i mean: late last year, i accepted the fact that the economic climate had really affected Cultiv8 Solutions and i needed to find employment, for the first time in 5 years, to cover all the bases. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I began working for an employer whilst running Cultiv8 Solutions in my spare time. However, the emotional transformation from being an entrepreneur / business owner to becoming an employee again was too much - i lost about two stone in 10 weeks, stopped socialising with friends and became really grumpy at home. Furthermore, poliTRICKS began to set in, affecting the impact that i wanted to create, making me even more stress out.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Then a colleague of mine stated that he de-stressing by playing Golf...one of the most elitist sports with a global reputation for not serving the needs of diverse communities...what a challenge! After a couple rounds as a guest at his golf club, i was hooked!! Totally and utterly hooked!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Now im not saying that i get down on my knees every Sunday at the altar of my local church, but i do believe in God and have always tried to live a good and positive life but God DOES move in mysterious ways - within two months of my attending those golf rounds, i a) Found a new home based role in Golf b) negotiated terms that allows me to continue running my businesses c) Have the responsibility to change a whole sport!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
In short: My remit is to increase the level of equality and diversity with Golf nationally within the UK - this includes helping the more &#039;traditional&#039; golf clubs widen the level of diversity within their memberships and advising the national governing bodies of Golf on how to increase diversity throughout the Sport in line with the 2016 Olympics and beyond!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
So what does that mean for my clients: Nothing changes in terms of the quality service that i provide through Diversity Strategy consultancy and Executive Coaching - in fact, it enhances my service provision because it allows me to be more innovative and gain access to more funding streams!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
So please contact me to discuss how we can make your business grow, become more sustainable and more profitable in 2010!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Right, Im off to get my golf handicap by 2 today....Till the next time, J 
    </description>
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<item>
    <title>Online Videos, Executive Coaching...who am i?</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/20-Online-Videos,-Executive-Coaching...who-am-i.html</link>

    <description>
        I have had one of the most emotional rollercoasting, thought-provoking and humbling weeks this week - Two entrepreneurial award finals for my two businesses: 02 X Award Male Entrepreneur of the Year 2009 for www.geewee.tv &amp;amp; Man on a Mission Business Award 2009 for www.cultiv8solutions.com), three really good job offers and a head hunted request for my expertise!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
For the past five years, i have been navigating myself through the scary but equally exciting world of Entreprenurism, yet it has only been in the last two years when i have begun to see the fruits of my labours. It is as if someone turned on a light, back in 2007, which instantly put all my sacrifices, blood, sweat and tears into perspective and allowed me to put myself into fifth gear.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Yet i still feel burdened...could it be the fear of success, fear of failure, realism on what i am really trying to achieve? Methinks, it is a bit of all of the above - being nominated for business awards is great but you still feel like a failure when you dont win, but at the same time, are proud that you even got there! Furthermore, being offered jobs that will solve all my troubles makes me wonder whether i should put  my business owner dreams and ambitions, on the back burner for a while, particularly in the current economic climate.....&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
However, today i realised something...i realised that my journey has only just begun. Nothing happens without a reason, everything has its own season...Im in summer/autumn at the minute, in the sense that the highs and elated feelings of success must be balanced with the chills that constantly bring me back to reality.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Reality has forced me to asked myself one key question: Who am i? &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
My answer: As i look at where i have come from, to where i am going, I smile. My results to date have shown me that i am the type of person who thrives on being challenged and taking risks but is focused on daily results that create small but consistent impacts - this is what spurs me on...&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Someone once asked me &quot;if i see myself as a firework or a star?&quot; and i remember that i had no answer to give them. If that person asked me again, i would say that i am a star that you cant see, but who is trying to outshine the fireworks always seem to grab everyone&#039;s attention.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Inside i shine brightly, but i fully accept that only time can decide whether or not others will see it..... 
    </description>
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    <title>Cultiv8 MD asked to speak to budding entrepreneurs!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/19-Cultiv8-MD-asked-to-speak-to-budding-entrepreneurs!.html</link>

    <description>
        In response to the government&#039;s agenda of empowering young people, City College (Birmingham)&lt;br /&gt;
have asked our MD, Joel Graham-Blake to speak to 20 young people who seek to be entrepreneurs of the future!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The 20 min talk will be given to pupils at St John Wall School, Birmingham in a bid to help them understand the complex world of Enterprise, and to learn about the characteristics needed to become a successful business owner.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Joel, who has been nominated as the 02 Male Entrepreneur of the Year 2009, for his innovative mobile advertising service GeeWee.tv, is set to inspire pupils with an insight into how he managed to navigate social negatives, and turn his life lessons into a internationally-reknowned business.&lt;br /&gt;
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We believe that the young people are in for an exciting, real-life and passionate talk filled with practical strategies that the young people can use, to build their commercial visions of the future! 
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    <title>Local businessman launches ‘Speakathon’ in order to empower the region’s workforce!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/18-Local-businessman-launches-Speakathon-in-order-to-empower-the-regions-workforce!.html</link>

    <description>
        A business consultant from Birmingham has decided to put his money where his mouth is, in an innovative way to inspire and empower workforces in the region.&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel Graham-Blake, a winner of the Urban Dreams Award 2006, has found a novel way to motivate staff who are facing redundancy or who are worried about their future, with a ‘Speakathon’ - six months of personal development talks with all speaking fees to be given to a charity of the organisations choice.&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel, Founder of the dynamic Midlands-based management consultancy service Cultiv8 Solutions, says that this idea is focused on his passion for helping others to realise their potential.&lt;br /&gt;
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“Each talk will be geared towards helping staff and employees primarily within medium to large organisations, to identify their own personal level of self-worth and then use that information to set achievable goals for their future”. He added:&lt;br /&gt;
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“My aim with The Speakathon is for me to speak at an event, training day or planned occasion for FREE, once a month for six months.&lt;br /&gt;
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Starting from 1st September 2009 to 28th February 2009, I will donate the speakers fees paid to me by the client for that month, to a charity or worthy cause of their choice. To find out how to get your organisation involved in The Speakathon, contact me NOW on 07983 991 943.&lt;br /&gt;
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Any additional speaking engagements agreed each month with any other organisation, outside of the Speakathon, will receive an instant 50% discount in fees charged.”&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel first founded Cultiv8 Solutions in March 2007, from scratch with no financial support. He now provides Executive Coaching, Business Development Support and Workforce Development consultancy, with a client list including Aston Villa Football Club, University of Birmingham and Aston Business School.&lt;br /&gt;
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“I was told that I had two months notice before my job position was being terminated”. He stated “After a depressing period of frustration and anxiety about the future for me and my family, I eventually found the passion and determination to overcome my barriers; I see The Speakathon as a way for me to help others achieve their goals, both personally and professionally.”&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel has been short listed for the coveted ‘Man on a Mission’ Business award in October 2009, was a nominee for Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 (BEA) and was a finalist in the Birmingham Young Professional of the Year awards in 2006.&lt;br /&gt;
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&lt;strong&gt;Contact Joel Graham-Blake now to speak at your event from &lt;br /&gt;
1st September 2009 to 28th February 2010 on:&lt;br /&gt;
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Direct Mobile Tel: 07983 991 943&lt;br /&gt;
Email: joel@cultiv8solutions.com&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
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&lt;strong&gt;Brief Bio&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
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After working for the Connexions mentoring service for several years, Joel set up his first business in 2005, supporting troubled youth at risk of expulsion in school and helping college and university leavers gain long term employment. &lt;br /&gt;
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He grew the business into a specialised recruitment service, helping the professional services sector business recruit the best talent from diverse communities. &lt;br /&gt;
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He then founded Cultiv8 Solutions in March 2007, where he provides a holistic approach to business development, diversity and equality support and creative marketing services to multi-million pound turnover organisations, from both the public and private sectors.&lt;br /&gt;
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He is also founder of GeeWee.tv - launching in Birmingham in September 2009, GeeWee.tv is set to become the leading online video advertising platform for lifestyle businesses.&lt;br /&gt;
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He also performs voluntary work through mentoring and community development support with a wide range of third sector organisations.&lt;br /&gt;
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    <title>MD of Cultiv8 Solutions nominated for business award!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/17-MD-of-Cultiv8-Solutions-nominated-for-business-award!.html</link>

    <description>
        &lt;strong&gt;‘On a mission’ Entrepreneur placed on award short list for motivating bosses into action!&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
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A Birmingham-based management consultant has been recognised for his work in helping some of the regions most biggest employers, to grow their business by using the creativity and innovation of their workforce and local communities.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Joel Graham-Blake, a 29 year-old finalist of the Bham Young Professional of the Year Award 2006, has been short listed for the coveted ‘Man on a Mission’ title provided by the prestigious Switched On Awards.&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel, an executive coach and motivational speaker specialising in diversity and personal development, says that Cultiv8 Solutions, a business he started and still runs from his home office, has grown from a simple principle of building relationships through active listening and effective communication.&lt;br /&gt;
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“ Coming from the inner city of Birmingham, there are many issues that I have seen and experienced and lessons that I have learnt,” he explains “ The main thing I have learnt is that achieving goals, in any arena, is based on understanding what the consequences of one’s actions will be and seeking the right advice if you are not sure of the right choice to take.”&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Cultiv8 Solutions provides a wide range of services for Directors and Senior managers responsible for implementing both diversity and people management strategies.&lt;br /&gt;
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“ In the current times that we are in, it is essential that businesses of all sizes, take a serious look at where they are going and how they are going to get there” says Joel. “However, as times are changing, so are the needs of people - the importance of having a job has shifted from a year to year analysis to a day to day one and businesses need to be have an truly inclusive mindset and culture in order to adapt to these changes, or they will die. It is that simple”. &lt;br /&gt;
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Joel is also in the process of launching a new venture to support the growth of small businesses, through the use of digital media advertising, later this year.&lt;br /&gt;
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“ Most larger organisations have more capacity and structure to support their local communities but small businesses, that help our communities to grow and add value to our economy, are being hit hard in the times that we are in. Many have little or no  budgets to market what they can offer and are often discarded to one side and replaced by those who can get into the face of consumers, more easily. I am going to change all that, or at least offer a platform that provides an open level playing field for all businesses, regardless of size.”&lt;br /&gt;
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Joel, Winner of the Urban Dreams Award 2006 and a Young Entrepreneur of the Year nominee in 2007, on hearing of his short listed nomination by the Switched On Awards 2009, stated “ It’s a great feeling to be recognised for something that I feel so passionately about. I thank everyone who has believed in me for the past four years, as I built the business from scratch with no financial support from anyone. Its hard work, but moments like this and seeing the positive impact on others, makes it all it worth it!” &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Note to Editors:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
After spending four years as part of the Connexions Mentoring Service, Joel set up Cultiv8 Solutions in 2005, firstly providing mentoring support to troubled youth in some of the regions inner city schools. He grew the business organically, eventually moving into the professional services sector as a Diversity Recruitment service. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
In March 2007, Joel closed down the recruitment side of the business to focus on the provision of business development, diversity, equality training and creative marketing services. He has provided diversity and personal development support to a number of the organisations in the region including Aston Villa FC, University of Birmingham and Aston Business School. He is very active in his local community by voluntary work through mentoring and community organisation support.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Note to editors: For more editorial information/photography, please contact Joel Graham-Blake at joel@cultiv8solutions.com or &lt;br /&gt;
07983 991 943 &lt;br /&gt;
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<item>
    <title>Its a new dawn, its a new day...</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/16-Its-a-new-dawn,-its-a-new-day....html</link>

    <description>
        It seems that the changes in the political landscape of the UK, the impact of the credit crunch and the need for survival for many UK businesses, have alot to answer for.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
What exactly? Well, the issue of Diversity seems to have pushed further down the ladder of importance because the fears and exploration of the subject can be deflected away under the mask of the current climate..or can it?&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Personally, i feel that diversity, in its truest sense, has the opportunity to aid the development of all individuals and business in these lean times - creativity, innovation and action underpin the ability for diversity to add value to the way that we work, the way that we live and the way that we egage and build relationships with others. The richness of culture and difference can be absorbed from the influx of the unemployed in the labour market and utilised to offer a fresh approach to business and personal sustainability.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
I must make clear that my angle on Diversity is the acknowledgement of new ideas, skills, practices and action; i am not singling out any one faction of this multifaceted area, rather, i see the need to integrate the essence of difference in all areas for all reasons. &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
So lets raise our glasses to the times that we are in; Let us shout hooray to the difficulties we face! For it is through adversity that we are forced to find new ways and methods of survival that challenge us and at the same time help us to grow!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Appreciation of and action through Diversity is the key to overcoming the obstacles we face, isn&#039;t it? 
    </description>
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<item>
    <title>CULTIV8 SOLUTIONS responds with a new focus for 2009!</title>
    <link>http://cultiv8recruitment.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/15-CULTIV8-SOLUTIONS-responds-with-a-new-focus-for-2009!.html</link>

    <description>
        Hi all&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Cultiv8 Solutions is back with a fresh new focus but the same passion for success! &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The economic climate has affected many businesses over the past 18 months and we have been no different! &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
With businesses being forced to pull in the reins on spending, we too had to adapt to the changes that affected our business whilst ensuring that we maintain the quality that our clients EXPECT AND CONTINUALLY RECEIVE by using our services.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;strong&gt;I wish to send a personal thank you to all our clients and partners who have stuck with us and have benefitted from the factors that separate us from others. I would also like to welcome all our new clients who are now part of the &#039;Cultiv8 Family!&#039;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
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Consequently, we have responded to our clients needs and have refocused our efforts in the areas, that we are feel are our key strengths and offer the most added value:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
These key areas are in:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;- Executive Consultancy&lt;br /&gt;
- Executive Coaching&lt;br /&gt;
- Community Engagement.&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Of course, we still provide a wide range of additional services but feel it is key that we enhance our core expertise, to really make positive impacts for others!&lt;br /&gt;
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Our vision for the growth of our clients remains the same: We help to nurture your potential.&lt;br /&gt;
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Just be reassured that our support is based on real-life insights and practical knowledge that:&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
- help you create cost effective business strategies, within the current climate&lt;br /&gt;
- also inform your learning as an individual, who has a high level of responsibility and accountability.&lt;br /&gt;
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View our new content at &lt;strong&gt;www.cultiv8solutions.com &lt;/strong&gt;OR &lt;strong&gt;Contact Joel Graham-Blake on 0798 399 1943 &lt;/strong&gt;to see how we can help you become even more successful!!&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Cultiv8 Solutions - Bridging the Gap between businesses and communities!&lt;br /&gt;
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Take care&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Joel Graham-Blake, Managing Director&lt;br /&gt;
Email: joel@cultiv8solutions.com&lt;br /&gt;
Direct Tel: 0798 399 1943&lt;br /&gt;
Web: www.cultiv8solutions.com&lt;br /&gt;
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