Ian Henery (pictured), former Walsall Poet Laureate 2020 - 2021, was invited to read Autumn themed poetry to the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Ken Wood and the Lady Mayoress of Birmingham, Barbara Wood, last weekend for the Chinese Mid Autumn Festival in Birmingham.
"The poems were from my first collection" explained Ian and published by Thynks Publications. The collection was called "Batman, Where Are You?" with artwork by Kristina Griffiths. The two poems I read were called "Leaf" and "Falling Leaf" were appropriate for the festival."
Ian Henery was volunteering his services for the organisers of the festival, the Birmingham Chinatown Business Association, who had organised the event in the Arcadian Centre in Birmingham.
The Birmingham Chinatown Business Association was established on December 28, 2023, with over 80% of businesses in Chinatown as members. The association is led by a Board of Directors and an Executive Committee. The Board of Directors is responsible for overall leadership and is composed of Chairman Kin Bong Lam, Executive Chairman Shu Wang, Secretary-General Dr. Dorian Chan, Financial Director Eric Fung, Legal Director Jenny Loynton, and others. The Executive Committee consists of 15 Vice-Chairpersons who are responsible for managing and executing specific areas. Special advisors and honorary presidents provide guidance and support. The association's members actively participate in the organization’s operations and development.
The association’s vision and mission are to jointly promote cooperation and development among businesses in Birmingham’s Chinatown, creating prosperity. We are committed to building a united and supportive community, providing a platform for support and collaboration to address various challenges and issues together. Additionally, our mission includes creating architectural landmarks and complexes with Chinese characteristics, showcasing the charm of Chinese culture. By transforming Birmingham’s Chinatown into a government-recognized tourist destination, we aim to boost the region's economic prosperity while deepening the understanding of Chinese culture.
