My last two dining experiences began with a maître d’ who seemed to have stepped straight out of a sitcom, delivering the inevitable line — “Have you booked?” — in a tone that somehow manages to feel both accusatory and theatrical. Honestly, it makes me want to scream, “If I had booked, I would have told you!” It’s a small moment, but it can instantly drain the anticipation from what should be a relaxed and enjoyable evening out.
Thankfully, any lingering irritation melted away entirely when I arrived at 123 Browns. It isn’t the easiest place to find, but trust me — it is absolutely worth the search. Tucked away like a secret waiting to be discovered, this intimate yet beautifully curated venue feels calm, thoughtful, and quietly confident. From the moment you step inside, there is a sense that this is a place created with care. The space is stylish without being showy, warm without being overbearing, and there is also a charming outdoor area that feels perfect for long conversations and unhurried evenings.
Specialising in plant-based cuisine, 123 Browns proves — emphatically — that vegan dining can be indulgent, creative, and deeply satisfying. This is not food that relies on novelty or gimmicks; it is food that speaks for itself. The service plays a huge part in setting the tone. With only two members of staff working, the experience felt remarkably seamless. From the outset, we were treated less like customers and more like welcome guests. The team took time to explain the menu clearly and enthusiastically, answering questions with genuine warmth. My friend’s rather complex dietary requirements were handled with complete ease, and the wine and food recommendations were thoughtful, informed, and delivered without even a hint of judgement or impatience.
The food itself was outstanding. Every dish felt carefully considered, beautifully presented, and packed with flavour. This is plant-based cooking that doesn’t attempt to imitate meat unnecessarily, but instead celebrates texture, balance, and freshness. The seasoning was confident without being heavy-handed, allowing individual ingredients to shine. If you love sushi, the plant-based sushi here is nothing short of divine — fresh, inventive, and genuinely memorable. Each bite felt clean, vibrant, and indulgent in equal measure. My only regret is that I didn’t order more savoury dishes before sensibly — or foolishly — leaving room for dessert.
And then there was the dessert. The matcha cheesecake deserves its own paragraph, possibly its own fan club. It may genuinely be the dessert of the century. Silky smooth and perfectly balanced, it was indulgent without ever feeling heavy. The matcha flavour was subtle rather than overpowering, lending depth and elegance rather than bitterness. I had two. Yes, two. Naughty? Absolutely. Worth it? Without question.
What truly sets 123 Browns apart, however, is its atmosphere. There is a calm, welcoming energy that makes you feel instantly at ease — almost like coming home. It feels like a safe, comforting space where you are encouraged to slow down, be present, and enjoy food that has clearly been prepared with intention and care. Honestly, just go. It is a treat in every sense, and once you have been, you will already be planning your return.
It would be easy to rush to call Rocco Ritchie a “nepo baby” and dismiss his artistic success as being down to his famous parents. Of course, any help in an industry riddled with nepotism and driven by who you know can be an advantage. However, I am the first to say that Rocco is a huge talent with an original voice — if there is such a thing — and that originality is precisely why he is taking the art world by storm.
Rocco Ritchie is gaining recognition not because of who his parents are, but because of who he is becoming. In an industry often suspicious of famous surnames, he has quietly and confidently carved out a space that feels earned rather than inherited. Far from the caricature of a “nepo baby,” he has demonstrated discipline, originality, and a genuine commitment to craft that has surprised critics and collectors alike.
The label of nepotism is an easy one to reach for. As the son of global icon Madonna and filmmaker Guy Ritchie, Rocco grew up surrounded by creativity, privilege, and cultural capital. Yet what is striking about his artistic rise is how deliberately he stepped away from the spotlight that might have guaranteed instant attention. For years, he worked under a pseudonym, allowing his art to speak before his name did. That decision alone signals intent: Ritchie wanted critique, not cushioning.
His work does not rely on imitation or celebrity gimmickry. While many emerging artists fall into the trap of echoing fashionable trends or overtly referencing their influences, Ritchie resists this. Too often, artists with minimal talent but strong PR and marketing skills are sold to naïve buyers on the strength of a story rather than substance. The work may look good on a wall, but when it comes time to resell, the narrative unravels. Ritchie’s art does not rely on hype; it stands on its
own.
His work feels personal and idiosyncratic, and my hunch is that it will one day sell at serious auction houses. His paintings often explore mood, texture, and form with a restraint that belies his youth. There is confidence in his mark-making and composition, but also vulnerability — an understanding that art is as much about questioning as it is about declaring.
What sets Ritchie apart is that his work resists easy categorisation. There are echoes of classic portraiture, abstract expressionism, and urban grit, yet these elements are filtered through a distinctly contemporary lens. His use of layered surfaces and muted palettes gives the impression of images emerging from memory rather than being presented as finished statements. This refusal to over-explain is refreshing in an age of overexposure.
Equally compelling is Ritchie’s personal evolution. Over recent years, he has grown into a strikingly handsome and self-assured man, yet without the performative bravado often associated with celebrity offspring. There is a quietness to his public presence — a sense that he is more comfortable in the studio than on the red carpet. This grounded demeanour enhances his credibility as an artist committed to longevity rather than instant fame. He does not overtly reference other artists in his work, though there may be subtle echoes of the Mexican greats Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera — favourites of his mother — woven quietly into his visual language.
Public fascination has also been reignited by rare and genuinely touching moments of unity between his parents. Seeing Madonna and Guy Ritchie together in public for the first time in years, supporting their son, struck a chord. In an era where celebrity family dynamics are often reduced to spectacle, their shared pride felt sincere. It underscored that Rocco’s journey has not been about rebellion or reaction, but about reconciliation — between heritage and independence, privilege and purpose.
It would be naïve to deny the influence of Madonna’s deep love of art. A lifelong collector with a formidable eye, she has immersed herself in fine art, from classical masters to cutting-edge contemporary works. Growing up around such visual literacy undoubtedly shaped Rocco’s sensibilities. But influence is not imitation. Rather than copying his mother’s tastes, Ritchie appears to have absorbed an understanding of art as dialogue — between past and present, self and society.
What makes his rise feel so timely is that audiences are craving authenticity. Collectors and critics alike are increasingly weary of hype without substance. Ritchie’s work rewards slow looking. It invites interpretation without dictating meaning. This approach has helped him build genuine momentum, with exhibitions that attract attention not because of scandal or surname, but because viewers are curious to see what he will do next.
Rocco Ritchie’s emergence reminds us that legacy does not have to be a burden. It can be a foundation — one that still requires effort, risk, and humility to build upon. He is not storming the art world with noise, but with nuance. And in today’s cultural climate, that quiet confidence may be the most radical statement of all.
.A Standing Ovation for Service, Heart and Commitment: Dr Anna Kennedy OBE Honoured at Strictly Christmas
There are moments in charity fundraising that feel genuinely special — not staged, not expected, but deeply earned. One such moment came during this year’s Strictly Christmas event, held in support of Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice Coventry, when the Special Recognition Award was presented to Dr Anna Kennedy OBE.
Presented by James Sanders, co-founder of Strictly Christmas, the award recognised nearly a decade of tireless dedication, encouragement and belief from someone who has been part of the event’s very DNA since its earliest days in 2017.
Taking to the microphone, Sanders spoke warmly of Anna’s long-standing role not only as a judge, but as a champion of everything Strictly Christmas stands for. “For the past eight years,” he said, “Dr Anna Kennedy OBE has not only served as a judge, but has been a true ambassador for this event. She brings warmth, professionalism and a genuine love of dance — always encouraging our performers.”
That encouragement, he noted, echoed the support once given to Anna herself by the late Robin Windsor during The People’s Strictly, highlighting the cyclical nature of kindness that defines the Strictly Christmas ethos.
Yet, as Sanders made clear, Anna’s influence stretches far beyond the judges’ table. Behind the scenes, she has been a constant presence — offering guidance, belief and connections that have helped the event grow in stature year on year. Thanks in no small part to her advocacy, the calibre of judges has risen, audiences have expanded, and the fundraising total continues to climb, edging ever closer to the remarkable £1 million milestone.
“Anna has seen every show we’ve put on,” Sanders said, “and every pound raised. Her belief in the Strictly Christmas family has shaped the experience of every performer over the past nine years.”
The recognition was all the more powerful because it was entirely unexpected. Visibly moved, Anna described the moment as “a complete surprise” and “one of the most touching honours I’ve ever received.”
“This event really is the highlight of my year,” she said. “Strictly Christmas is about people — about giving joy, confidence and opportunity while raising vital funds for an extraordinary cause. To be recognised by a family I care so deeply about means the world to me.”
She also reflected on the wider purpose behind the glitter and glamour. “When you see the difference this support makes to families and children at Zoe’s Place, it reminds you why community matters. This is what happens when people come together with heart.”
As the audience rose to its feet, it was clear this award celebrated far more than longevity. It honoured compassion, leadership and a steadfast commitment to lifting others up — values that sit at the very heart of both Strictly Christmas and Dr Anna Kennedy OBE herself.
On a night filled with sparkle, it was humanity that truly stole the show.
There is no room for antisemitic behaviour of any kind in any civilised country. Antisemitism is not merely a matter of offensive language or misguided opinion; it is a corrosive force that undermines the very foundations of a democratic and inclusive society. Wherever it appears, it erodes trust, fuels division, and threatens the safety and dignity of Jewish people, who have faced centuries of persecution rooted in prejudice and misinformation.
A civilised nation is defined not only by its laws and institutions, but by its moral compass. It is measured by how it protects its minorities, upholds human rights, and challenges hatred in all its forms. Antisemitism stands in direct opposition to these values. Whether expressed through casual remarks, harmful stereotypes, conspiracy theories, vandalism, intimidation, or violence, it must be recognised for what it is: racism, plain and simple.
History has shown us the devastating consequences of allowing antisemitic attitudes to go unchallenged. When hatred is normalised or dismissed as trivial, it creates fertile ground for discrimination and, ultimately, atrocity. The lessons of the past place a responsibility on all of us—individuals, communities, institutions, and governments alike—to remain vigilant. Silence in the face of antisemitism is not neutrality; it is complicity.
In recent years, antisemitism has taken on new and often insidious forms, spreading rapidly through online platforms and social media. Disinformation, coded language, and dog-whistle rhetoric can make hatred appear respectable or “debate-worthy,” when in fact it is neither. Free speech is a cornerstone of democratic societies, but it does not extend to the promotion of hatred or the dehumanisation of others. Robust debate must never be used as a shield for prejudice.
Education plays a crucial role in combating antisemitism. Teaching accurate history, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering empathy are essential tools in dismantling ignorance and fear. Equally important is leadership—political, cultural, and civic—that is willing to speak out clearly and unequivocally. There can be no ambiguity when it comes to condemning antisemitism; half-measures only embolden those who seek to divide.
Ultimately, standing against antisemitism is not solely about defending Jewish communities, though that is vital. It is about defending the principles of equality, justice, and human dignity for everyone. A society that tolerates hatred against one group will, inevitably, find that hatred spreading to others. Civilisation demands better. It demands courage, clarity, and compassion—and an unwavering refusal to allow antisemitism, in any form, to take root.
As we approach the end of another eventful year and step into the promise of 2026, I want to begin by wishing every one of you a very Happy Christmas. Whether you celebrate the season quietly, joyfully, or somewhere in between, I hope the coming weeks bring you warmth, connection, and moments of genuine peace. Christmas is a time of reflection as much as celebration, and for me, looking back over 2025 brings both change and gratitude.
One of the biggest changes this year was saying farewell—though never goodbye—to my gorgeous friend and co-founder of 2Shades, Adishiri Chengappa. Many of you will know her as the bright, compassionate, and fiercely driven woman who helped bring this magazine to life. Adishiri has returned to India to study counselling, and I have absolutely no doubt she will become a brilliant one. Her heart, her empathy, and her ability to really listen to people make her an extraordinary human being, and those are precisely the qualities that will make her excel in her new profession.
Although Adishiri is stepping down from the magazine to focus on her studies, she remains a lifelong friend—both to 2Shades and to me personally. Our bond is permanent, and her contribution to the magazine will always be part of its foundations. Behind the scenes, we are now in discussions with a new partner who will join the 2Shades family and help carry the torch forward.
For those of you who may be newer readers, let me say this clearly: 2Shades has never been “just” an LGBTQ+ magazine. From day one, we envisioned a vibrant, inclusive space—a place for everyone. A magazine that is joyful yet unafraid; stylish yet unfiltered; a platform for voices that deserve to be heard. We speak our minds, we cover subjects that others shy away from, and we stand firmly by our philosophy that representation and honesty matter.
Over the years, we’ve covered everything from fashion, art, and entertainment to some of the most difficult and deeply important topics affecting people today. We have reported on male rape, mental health, identity, domestic violence, addiction, grief, and more. The world is multifaceted, and so are the people in it; 2Shades aims to reflect that complexity.
A huge part of what makes this magazine special is our remarkable team of columnists. Our Agony Aunt, Heidi Gammon, continues to grow in popularity, offering advice with wit, warmth, and plain-spoken honesty. Dr Anna Kennedy OBE brings vital insight, advocacy, and compassion through her work in autism awareness and support. Our beauty expert Clare McSweeney adds glamour, empowerment, and the kind of practical advice that boosts confidence. And this year we welcomed Richard Andrews, who’s new “Money Matters” column is already proving invaluable to readers navigating finances during turbulent times.
Clare 2Shades columnist with Aston Avery she is on Gateway every month .
All of them are thriving on social media, and their readership continues to soar—a testament to the authenticity and relevance they bring.
What makes all of this even more remarkable is that the magazine still has no sponsors. I work entirely for free, as do many involved. And we do it because we believe in 2Shades, in its purpose, and in the community surrounding it. But as we look ahead to the future—and to the possibility of expanding globally—sponsors and advertisers will eventually be essential. If you’ve enjoyed the work we’ve done, if the magazine has informed, entertained, or supported you in any way, then please help us grow by spreading the word. Share the link, recommend us, tell people who we are and what we stand for. That simple act makes a world of difference.
And speaking of difference: there is something else I’d like to ask this Christmas.
If you feel moved to show appreciation for the magazine’s work this year, please consider donating to Anna Kennedy Online, a charity that means an incredible amount to me personally. Not only is Anna a dear friend, but I am honoured to have been a patron of her autism charity for nearly twelve years—something I remain immensely proud of. The work AKO does is life-changing for autistic children, adults, and families across the UK. If you would like to donate, the details are below; even the smallest contribution helps.
Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with me.
Looking ahead, my biggest hope is that 2026 will be the year 2Shadesbecomes a global success. A huge portion of our readership already comes from the United States and Australia, which shows that our message resonates far beyond the UK. We speak to universal experiences—identity, struggle, connection, joy, and truth. These things transcend borders.
And that brings me to my wish for 2026, a simple yet powerful one: More empathy. More understanding. More respect.
We live in an increasingly polarised world, where disagreement is seen as a personal attack and differing opinions are met with hostility rather than curiosity. One of the wisest things I heard this year came from Peter Tatchell at the screening of “Legendary Children: All of Them Queer.” He said:
“By going into other places and organisations and being your authentic self, making a positive difference, people will start to change their views.”
That stayed with me, because it reminds us that real progress rarely comes from shouting or fighting—it comes from presence, compassion, and consistency.
Yet too often, respect is missing from the smallest everyday interactions. I’ll give you an example. I have not eaten red meat or pork for 49 years. It’s part of who I am. I don’t need to explain why; it doesn’t need to be debated. Yet more times than I can count, I’ve sat down to a meal only to be told, “Oh, just scrape it off,” as if my boundary were an inconvenience rather than something worthy of respect.
It’s such a small thing, but small things matter. Empathy shows itself in the details. Most people, of course, are thoughtful and considerate—but we all know others who refuse to see beyond their own beliefs. They hold strong opinions on everything yet become instantly outraged if you question theirs. They expect understanding but rarely offer it in return.
And then there are those who appear addicted to drama—who cannot be content unless they are creating conflict or turning an event into something about them. Rather than bringing joy, talent, or positive energy to a gathering, they bring chaos. It is, in my opinion, a kind of addiction in itself. A hunger for attention that stifles empathy and dims the light for everyone else. As such addiction is an illness and I have empathy there. However when an illness is contagious or has a knock on effect on your mental health you need to walk away in the end.
Imagine how different the world could be if empathy were something we practised as naturally as breathing. If instead of reacting, we paused. Instead of judging, we listened. Instead of assuming, we asked. If 2026 could bring even a fraction more understanding into everyday life, what a transformation we would see.
So as we wrap presents, raise glasses, and welcome the new year, my message is this: Celebrate with kindness. Speak with honesty. Live authentically. Respect differences—not just the ones that are easy, but the ones that challenge you. And above all, look for ways to make someone else’s world a little better.
To every reader, supporter, contributor, and friend of 2Shades: thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a beautiful Christmas, a hopeful New Year, and a 2026 filled with courage, connection, and compassion.
We hear it time and time again: “The Eurovision Song Contest is not political.” And while we all know that the voting patterns can sometimes be… entertaining, to say the least, at its heart Eurovision remains a celebration of music, creativity, and community. It has long been affectionately referred to as the “Gay New Year,” bringing joy, glamour, and unapologetic self-expression to millions around the world. For many viewers, it is more than a show — it is a moment of unity.
The spirit of Eurovision has always been about artists coming together to share their talent, culture, and stories. It was never intended to be a platform for political punishment, nor a place where artists are excluded because of the actions of their governments.
When I interviewed Peter Tatchell this year, he said something that resonated deeply with me: the way forward for the LGBTQ+ community is to keep being a shining beacon across all platforms. I couldn’t agree more. Visibility, inclusion, and dialogue are how progress is made — not through shutting doors.
Madonna in Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest .
I don’t live in some insulated “gay bubble,” nor would I want to. Real change happens when we remain open to conversation, even with those whose governments or policies we may profoundly disagree with. Excluding countries from Eurovision is not a solution; it brings nothing constructive to the table. In fact, it risks undermining the very principles Eurovision claims to stand for: openness, inclusivity, and the celebration of cultural diversity.
Israel, in particular, has a long and meaningful relationship with the contest. It is a country where LGBTQ+ people are welcomed, recognised, and celebrated — a fact often overlooked in broader political debates. Eurovision itself has benefited enormously from Israel’s participation. It gave us Dana International, the first (known) transgender winner, whose victory in 1998 was a landmark moment for queer visibility worldwide. Beyond Dana, Israel has consistently showcased diverse performers and daring artistic vision, enriching the contest’s legacy.
Rather than silencing or excluding, Eurovision should remain a platform where artists from all backgrounds, beliefs, and nations can share their voice. Music has always had the power to connect people beyond politics, beyond borders, and beyond conflict. Using your voice to send a message is a beautiful and powerful thing — but using silence as a form of punishment rarely fosters understanding or change.
When we welcome artists from countries whose governments we may disagree with, we create the possibility for conversation, empathy, and cultural exchange. When we block them, we lose that opportunity. Eurovision should not become a battleground of boycotts and bans; it should remain what it was created to be: a stage that celebrates unity in diversity.
Let’s not allow hatred, division, or political pressure to turn Eurovision into something it was never meant to be. Let’s welcome all who bring music to the stage — and keep the contest a place where voices are heard, not silenced.
Steven’s Out and About At David J. Howe’s book launch “Who Me” — in conversation with Samantha Lee Howe — at the Firepit Gallery, London, in aid of the autism charity Anna Kennedy Online
Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with David J Howe and Samatha Lee Howe .
Tucked away at the end of the North Greenwich Peninsula, just a short stroll from the iconic O2, the Firepit Gallery is fast becoming one of my favourite places in London. It’s not just the remarkable art on display that draws me back time and again, but the warm, creative energy that fills the space. The gallery, lovingly nurtured by its owner Marcus Jake, has quickly become a safe and welcoming haven where artists, writers, performers, and makers gather, collaborate, and feel part of a family. Marcus’s gift is creating an atmosphere where everyone feels seen, valued, and entirely at home.
It’s no surprise, then, that the venue is becoming known not only for its artistic endeavours but also for hosting an eclectic range of diverse, exciting events. On the 28th of November, it was a delight — not only for die-hard Doctor Who fans but for many others — to attend the London launch of David J. Howe’s new book Who Me. Despite the cold, wet evening, fans gathered enthusiastically, queueing in excellent spirits for the chance to have their books signed. A percentage of the proceeds was generously donated to the autism charity Anna Kennedy Online.
Me with the wonderful Samantha Lee Howe , the legend that is Pam Sharrock and the man of the hour David J Howe .
Anna Kennedy OBE herself was present, radiating her trademark warmth and energy as she introduced both David and the evening’s interviewer. David’s wife — the ever-glamorous and always engaging Samantha Lee Howe — brought her own sparkle to the occasion. Guests enjoyed a glass of prosecco while mingling before taking their seats for Samantha’s conversation with David.
with ” Who Me ” writer David J Howe .
An award-winning author and screenwriter, Samantha guided David through a fascinating reflection on his lifelong journey with Doctor Who: from childhood fan to acclaimed writer, historian, and one of the most recognisable voices in the Whovian world. The audience, which included fellow Doctor Who writer Robert Shearman, listened intently as David shared insights, anecdotes, and the unexpected twists that shaped both his career and his deep connection to the Doctor’s universe.
David J Howe with gallery owner Marcus Jake , celebrity photographer Annemarie Bickerton , Artist Piluca .
The evening also featured a lively charity raffle, with all funds raised going to Anna Kennedy Online. Dr Anna Kennedy, PR. Pamela Sharrock, QVC’s Beverley Cressman, and David himself picked the winning tickets. The raffle table was a treasure trove, thanks to generous donations from celebrity aesthetics expert and singer Sue Moxley; Aston Martin; celebrity make-up artist Ayesha Baig; Iryna Stewart, Director of Imagine You; and the team behind the innovative “Recovery Pillow.”
As if that weren’t enough, guests were treated to a Doctor Who-themed cake — and thankfully, no one was exterminated in the process! The atmosphere was joyful, warm, and celebratory, marking another memorable night at the Firepit Gallery.
If there is one woman capable of shaking up the Christmas charts, unseating the usual pop titans, and bringing pure chaotic joy to the holiday season, it’s Denise Welch. With Slayyy Bells, she hasn’t just released a festive single — she’s unleashed a cultural moment. A glittery, high-camp, tongue-in-cheek masterpiece that captures everything the British public secretly craves at Christmas: humour, heart, a bit of mischief, and a full-throttle, unapologetic “hun energy.”
Denise has long been adored for her honesty, her warmth, and her refusal to take herself too seriously. That’s why the LGBTQ+ community has embraced her with open arms. She doesn’t perform camp — she embodies it. Whether it’s fiery daytime TV realness, chaotic comic timing, or her glamorous, self-deprecating sparkle, Denise is the kind of icon who walks into a room and immediately becomes everyone’s mum, best friend, and backstage confidante. She is the definition of a British hun: fierce, funny, fabulous, and fearlessly herself.
Slayyy Bells captures that spirit perfectly. It’s a sugary cocktail of festive beats, wink-wink lyrics, and nightclub-ready chaos — the kind of song that would make even the Grinch put on a sequinned jumpsuit. In a chart landscape dominated by perfectly polished megastars like Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, or Ed Sheeran, Denise offers something the others can’t: pure personality. She’s not trying to be slick, she’s trying to be fun — and that’s exactly what people cling to at Christmas.
Let’s be honest: the UK loves an underdog, and Denise is the ultimate comeback queen. She’s lived a life, she’s told her story, and she has emerged with more charisma than half the industry put together. When she releases a Christmas single, it isn’t just music — it’s a movement. It’s the collective national desire for something joyful, camp, inclusive, and proudly silly.
The LGBTQ+ community in particular knows a gay icon when it sees one. Denise is outspoken, loyal, emotionally open, and effortlessly dramatic. She’s relatable yet glamorous; chaotic yet wise; messy yet magnificent. She’s the woman who will cry with you, dance with you, and drag you out to karaoke at 2 a.m. — the Patron Saint of Huns.
This is why Slayyy Bells deserves to beat the global juggernauts. Christmas Number One shouldn’t always go to the most streamed, the most marketed, or the most algorithmically optimised. Sometimes it should go to the artist who brings the most joy. The one who makes people laugh, sing, and feel part of something bigger.
Denise Welch is that artist. She’s the people’s diva, the hun-in-chief, the LGBTQ+ fairy godmother of festive chaos — and Slayyy Bells is the anthem worthy of her crown.
This Christmas, let’s make history. Let’s give the Number One to the woman who would celebrate it harder than anyone else: Queen Denise Welch.
2Shades Heidi Gammon and Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with Steven Smith at the Hampton Hub
Heidi Gammon presents Dr Anna Kennedy OBE.
The Hampton Hub was buzzing with energy on Friday 20th November as esteemed autism ambassador Dr Anna Kennedy OBE took to the stage as the special guest speaker for the Counselling and Coaching Group. The event was proudly hosted by Heidi Gammon, 2Shades Magazine columnist and Gateway Radio agony aunt, who introduced Dr Kennedy to an enthusiastic and engaged audience.
Dr Kennedy, one of the UK’s most recognised voices in autism advocacy, immediately captivated the room with her warmth, humour, and honesty. She shared her remarkable journey: from a determined mother fighting for the right support for her two autistic sons, Patrick and Angelo, to becoming a national campaigner, charity founder, and distinguished OBE recipient for her services to autism.
Her story began with what she described as “a battle fought with love and necessity.” With limited educational options available for her boys, she took matters into her own hands—eventually helping establish specialist provision and launching her highly influential charity, Anna Kennedy Online, which now supports thousands of autistic individuals and their families across the UK and beyond.
The audience listened intently as she spoke about the evolution of her work, including the hugely popular Autism Hero Awards, which celebrate outstanding individuals who make a positive difference within the autism community. She also discussed her long-running digital platform, Anna Kennedy Online, which provides education, advocacy, and outreach.
A highlight of the evening was her reflection on appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, where she was honoured as a finalist for Woman of the Year—a moment she described as both surreal and deeply meaningful.
The event also shone a spotlight on important collaborative projects. Dr Kennedy spoke about Born Anxious, the anti-bullying campaign that raises awareness of the struggles many autistic children and adults face. As part of the session, the group viewed a touching dance performance video by Freya Prince, whose emotional and expressive choreography moved the room.
Adding festive cheer, former Autism’s Got Talent performer Ty Williams delighted the audience via video with a heartfelt rendition of “Driving Home for Christmas,” receiving warm applause from attendees.
There was also a special appearance by Steven Smith, a former celebrity hairdresser turned author and presenter, who is one of the patrons of Anna Kennedy Online. He shared his personal story of becoming part of the charity’s growing family and spoke passionately about the power of creativity and community in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. He also highlighted the creation of Autism and Art, an inclusive exhibition held at the Firepit Gallery in London that celebrates neurodiverse artists and their unique perspectives.
The Hampton Hub Counselling and Coaching Group, led by Heidi Gammon and her dedicated team, provided a warm and supportive atmosphere, bringing together people from all walks of life who share a commitment to understanding, compassion, and positive action.
Attendees left energised and inspired, with many commenting on the emotional resonance and practical insight Dr Kennedy brought to the conversation. Her message was clear: with determination, community, and unwavering belief, real change is possible.
The event not only highlighted the vital work being done across the UK for autistic individuals, but also showcased the power of storytelling, advocacy, and human connection.
For more information on the organisations and initiatives mentioned, visit:
Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.Hear her on Gateway Radio on the Aston Avery Show and on YouTube.Please write to her at 2Shades: spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best. Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best.
Dear Heidi Hope you are well. My son is coming with his girlfriend for Christmas. She is a lovely girl, but she’s not really my kind of person — though she makes my son happy. Lunch is going to be a problem: she is vegan and we are all meat eaters. Making it worse, she talks about animal cruelty while we’re eating. Now my son has decided he’s vegan too. I will make a nut roast and vegetables for them, but is it acceptable to tell them I don’t want to hear about animals and cruelty while we eat? Diana, Uxbridge
Heidi replies: You’re being considerate by preparing vegan options, and it’s perfectly reasonable to set boundaries at the table. Explain kindly that you respect their choices, but mealtimes need to stay pleasant for everyone. A gentle, “Let’s save the debate for later,” is enough. Mutual respect works both ways. Maybe try having a coffee with her before Christmas, go over the menu, and then explain your boundaries so it doesn’t become a big issue on the day.
Dear Heidi My boyfriend and I like to party and occasionally take drugs. I feel it’s under control on my end — high days and low days, that kind of thing — but I am a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas. He wants to invite two friends over and seems more interested in getting drugs in for after lunch than the food or the day itself. What can I do? I want a white Christmas — not that kind of white one. Mike, Bournemouth
Heidi replies: You deserve a Christmas that feels safe and joyful. Tell your boyfriend clearly that you want a drug-free day and that you aren’t comfortable hosting a gathering that revolves around substances. If he can’t respect that boundary, it’s a sign something needs addressing in the relationship — and perhaps in your habits as a couple. A peaceful Christmas requires mutual respect. Any regular drug use is not only illegal but a sign of addiction; once it’s in your life, it has a habit of resurfacing.
Dear Heidi Can you please help me? My mother is a total control freak and she runs Christmas like a military operation. This year I want to go to my friends’ in Cornwall. I am 19, at college, and have a part-time job. How do I break the news? I hinted at the idea and she brushed it off. How do I tell her? Malcolm, Newcastle
Heidi replies: You’re an adult now, and part of growing up is making your own plans. Be direct, calm and kind: “Mum, I love Christmas here, but this year I’m spending it with friends.” She may protest, but stick to your decision. Set the boundary with respect, not guilt, and give her time to adjust. The sooner you tell her, the better — and be aware she may not stop being controlling, so learning to stand firm now will help.
Dear Heidi Please help. We are going to my fiancé’s for Christmas. His mum is nice, but his dad is awful — he constantly makes crude comments and flirts with me when no one is looking. What can I do? Do I tell my fiancé or just put up with it since we don’t go that often? Tiffany, Leeds
Heidi replies: You should not put up with inappropriate behaviour, no matter how infrequent the visits. Tell your fiancé privately and calmly what has been happening. He needs to know, and the two of you can decide together how to handle it — whether that’s him speaking to his father or setting clearer boundaries. You deserve to feel safe and respected.
Dear Heidi I am going home for Christmas. This summer I came out at university. My parents are religious and it is going to be a shock to them. Should I go down sooner to tell them? I don’t want to ruin Christmas. Paul, Cardiff
Heidi replies: If you feel emotionally ready, telling them before Christmas may ease some of the pressure on the day itself. It gives them time to process without the intensity and expectations of the holiday. Choose a calm moment, be honest, and remember: their reaction is about their adjustment, not your worth. You deserve to be loved and accepted as you are.
2Shades Magazine 