As a broadcaster and presenter I have featured or presented on TV and Radio many times during my ongoing career. I love the opportunity to engage, uplifting people with my charismatic energy, and a passion to help make a positive difference to a day.

In 2023, I was really happy to be approached by the team at the new BRMB Radio to help bring back the station following mergers and takeovers throughout the industry. I of course jumped at the opportunity to work with Birminghams most iconic station that originally launched as the third commercial radio station in the UK, back in 1974.
Now me, Phil Oldershaw, is a broadcaster and presenter of the very station I grew up listening to as a child, working with some iconic names in radio history. This of course includes the legendary Les Ross, who is back with his iconic Les Ross in the Morning Breakfast Show.
I host the Saturday brunch show and love reaching out to over 200,000 people, with a reach exceeding 1.8 million people throughout Birmingham and beyond.
Of course the radio format has changed, and people can now listen all over the world through various 'smart speakers' apps, and the internet. However, we still have 98.1fm and a DAB digital format for local listeners too!

Tune in, get involved and embrace BRMB Radio!

Busking Battles commended by National News Awards 2020

In 2010 I drafted the idea for a brand-new Entertainment Reality TV Show that I hoped to get to air. In later years, after a conversation with Lord Waheed Alli at his swanky offices in London, it was suggested that I try an online version to break-the-ice with it. Therefore, last year I partnered with Birmingham Updates to launch the show online called ‘Busking Battles’. This show had phenomenal success in Birmingham with over 1.5 million impressions that gained a huge following and audience interaction. A total of 11 episodes filmed last summer with ‘live’ winner announcements each week, it really was a show that gave buskers in the city the opportunity to radiate their talents while the viewers voted for their favourites. Excitingly, the show did that well that it was recently commended at the National News Awards 2020 for ‘Outstanding Use of Social Media’ where they said, quote “Busking Battles is pure genius”.

A big Thank You to all the artists for taking part, the audience for getting involved and for the team at Birmingham Updates for working with me to help make its debut a huge recognised success. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Busking Battles.

To keep me sane and to enhance the lives of listeners, and viewers alike on ‘Facebook Live’, I am maintaining to turn up every Sunday and put out my weekly show from 6-8pm. Engaging listeners and viewers worldwide, I have really enjoyed adapting my show to incorporate the audience more, making it more interactive with subjects that allow more comments and music choice around featured subjects while we are unable to have artists and guests in the studio. You can see more about my show via my website www.philoldershaw.com in the podcasts section, or visit www.solihullradio.com for station details.

I get asked to host an array of events, from awards dinners to charity fundraisers, city events to food festivals, and a whole lot more. When Lesley Taylor (BCU Graduate+ Programme Lead) at Birmingham City University asked me to host Birmingham’s second ever TEDx, I was delighted to get involved. I was even more excited to mentor a co-host from BCU, Caprice Bound, who was about to present live, her second and largest event to date!

Guest speakers from all areas of the city included: Anthony Daulphin (Leap of Faith), Victoria Masso (Curiosity, for Tech’s Sake!), Linda Jones (Burn Out to Brilliance), Professor Adam Crizzle (Help Me! I’m Only Human), Sophie Milliken (The Truth Behind the Showreel), Raj Holness, DR Karl George MBE and West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street.

We were also indulged by amazing entertainment from Birmingham’s own, and now legendary, Aston Performing Arts Academy as well as the wonderful Lyriqe, and the superb, Electric, who all performed with such passion and energy.

The team front of house, and back stage in tech, did an extraordinary job in ensuring professionalism, smoothness and a competent delivery in ensuring an inspiring TEDx transpired and will subsequently be seen by millions around the world, once it goes up on the popular TEDx platform.

I enjoyed working with all of the teams in all departments, and also helping to calm the nerves and support the energies of great inspiring speakers who had to deliver to an audience, and cameras, for approximately 15 minutes each. Congratulations to all.

Finally, special recognition goes to Caprice, who pulled off a great co-host presenting roll and to Lesley Taylor, and her team, for making sure the event happened with amazing people on board.

I was again proud to host on behalf of HRH Queen Elizabeth II 'The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration' event that took place in Victoria Square, Birmingham’s City Centre over the 4 days of 2-5 June 2022. 

Working with the West Midlands Lieutenancy, and strategic partners; Birmingham Pride, Birmingham Hippodrome, West Midlands Combined Authority, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, CBSO, Colmore BID, Retail BID, Southside BID, B:Music, and Amadeus Learning Partnership.

This was not the first time working on behalf of the royal family, by royal appointment, and I was most excited to be doing so once-more. I had previously hosted the golden jubilee, and also the Queens Awards for Voluntary Service, all of which I had done professionally, passionately, and diligently with outstanding results.

It is always an honour to host any event that represents a company, organisation, charity, brand or collective. However, to host on behalf of the monarchy, on more than one occasion, is always a jewel in the crown!

Commercial News

Look out for me… appearing on your phone, tablet or computer very soon!

I was most pleased when a few weeks ago I filmed 3 x commercials for an international social media app, that will be going live across the globe as part of their summer campaign very soon! Sorry about the secrecy but it’s under wraps until launch. What I can say is this, although I may still have my boyish good looks (so it’s been said) I was, for the first time ever, cast for the role of a dad in all 3 adverts. Thanks to Tru Powell from Aston Performing Arts for the heads up. 

Hosted by Elegant Entertainment, I was able to join forces with them as the presenter and host for evening. This online party was created to raise money to help talented local performers, whom otherwise would have had little work or profiling… as well as a donation going directly to our NHS heroes, and also Hospitality Action who are there to assist people in the industry in need through crisis grants and more. This fantastic event included; Cook-a-longs with two of Birmingham's finest chefs: Michelin Starred TV Chef and author - Glynn Purnell (Purnell's & Purnell's Bistro & Bar) and 'Great British Menu' star Alex Claridge from The Wilderness.

Musical performances from Elegant Entertainment, Aston Performing Arts, Feel Good Gospel Choir, The Collective Live Band, Cast of The Greatest Show PLUS a whole host of other celebrity guests, West Midlands Mayor and comedians live from their homes

It was an incredible night as thousands of people gathered for the media night of The Book of Mormon. Press people mixed with joyous adventurers who were all looking to be enlightened and taken on an incredible journey of music, laughter and a story like no other. Created by the writers of South Park, we were all excited by what we were about to experience. The Book of Mormon follows two young missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try to convert citizens to the Mormon religion. One missionary, Elder Price, is an enthusiastic go-getter with a strong dedication to his faith, while his partner, Elder Cunningham, is a socially awkward but well-meaning nerd whose tendency to embroider the truth soon lands him in trouble. Upon their arrival in Africa, Elders Price and Cunningham learn that in a society plagued by AIDS, poverty and violence, a successful mission may not be as easy as they expected.

 During the interval I caught up with the delightfully charismatic and visionary Chief Executive of the Birmingham Hippodrome, Fiona Allan. We talked about the hilarious and controversial show that is The Book of Mormon and also the incredible line-up of other performances scheduled for 2020 at this iconic venue. Birmingham Hippodrome this year is now celebrating 125 years of amazing shows, guests and all things showbiz in our wonderful city and you really should check out the fantastic bookings available.

Check out some of the photos and vlogs from the evening as I mingled with happy people sharing smiles, laughter and some great hospitality by the events team too!

The show culminated in a huge standing ovation, which was most worthy.

Thank you to all involved, including; Fiona Allan and Ben Wooldridge, for a lovely evening.

See more of what the hippodrome has to offer here: https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/whats-on/

As an experienced presenter and host I was very excited to be formally invited to host Birmingham’s 2022 Commonwealth Games, an event that had our region buzzing with joy. As an experienced presenter and host I feel privileged to have worked towards a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and memory for Birmingham, UK. I helped to make this a special moment in history. Presenting at the NEC over all 11 days, Thursday 28^th July to Monday 8^th August 2022 was a real blast. I engaged with the ‘Fan Zone’ and ‘Village’ and I loved sharing the experience with those attending; and showing the world what Birmingham, the West Midlands and the UK is all about!
We shared some smiles, bringing happiness and joy while communicating the message of Birmingham's Commonwealth Games 2022 to the world. Showing everybody how warm, friendly and welcoming Birmingham and the surrounding areas really are. It's was a time to shine!

The Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 is making history with the legacy projects it's creating that continue to benefit the community, and the ongoing economic impact on the West Midlands for many years to come.

It’s Serenity Radio  I am joining a brand new radio station that launched on Saturday 13th June 2020, its called Serenity Radio. www.serenityradio.co.uk  This fantastic new station will see an array of inspiring and energising presenters, and their unique skillsets, come together to deliver back-to-back incredible insights and positivity to raise the most stubborn emotions during this current crisis, economic climate and a world that seems to be paining every day.  My show, to be named ’The Butterfly Effect’ will see weekly guests, including; performance artists, authors, spiritual leaders and many more telling their story, their journey and their unique outlook to help raise the vibration and energy fields of all who visit.  Mindset is everything, but it's the heart that truly feels. My new show will be launching in the next couple of weeks, check out the website link for more details as they arrive.

I was invited to TAG Network Midlands, to do a webinar on ‘Online Presentation Skills’. As more people are now having to work and present from home, I shared my expertise to help individuals grow in confidence to deliver an outstanding presentation to their customers, colleagues and senior level personnel. The presentation was based on my 6 Steps to Success! It was great to see that so many people are joining online webinars to engage, learn and improve their own skills. It appears ZOOM! has become everyone’s new best friend.

It was an utter delight to indulge in a two-course lunch at the Birmingham Council House on Thursday 5^th March, 2020. An array of very distinguished business people, and movers-and-shakers of the city, came together to pledge their support for this incredible charity. All monies were being given to Acorns charity courtesy of a sponsor

It also happened to be in the company of Steven Knight, the man who has recently helped to further imprint Birmingham firmly on the map of the world, with his incredible drama series Peaky Blinders. Another man that was in attendance, who is working hard for Birmingham, West Midlands and Acorns Charity; is that of West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street. Both passionately engaged with an audience of over 200 people before lunch, in the grandeur and rigidity of the Council Chamber! Their passion was shared, as Marc Reeves asked the right questions, before handing over more questions to the floor.

I was able to catch up with Steven Knight for some words after lunch (vlog attached) and we discussed his commitment in helping the team at Acorns, before I tried to get some Peaky Blinder spoilers out of him for season 6.

An immense amount of money was raised, thanks to sponsors Charles Stanley and Vision PLC, who paid for lunch; ensuring that all tickets purchased for the day were directed straight to Acorns. 

The team from Acorns on the day including: CEO Toby Porter, Supporter Engagement Neil Cramer, Nicky, Vicki, Amy, Janine and more, were all on hand to make the afternoon fun, friendly and a highlight in the fundraising calendar. Congratulations to them all on their continuous and consistent efforts in keeping this big oak growing.

Acorns Children’s Hospice is dedicated to providing care, support, fun and laughter for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, and offering support and rest bite for their families too!

For more information on the charity, and to learn how you can support as an individual, or as a company, then please visit them here: www.acorns.org.uk

The current campaign see’s Acorns needing to reach a target of £2 million, with over £600,00 already being raised thanks to the support of many.

Last year I was fortunate to be able to present and deliver a concept show I had written, initially for television, onto the Birmingham Updates platform. Working in partnership to deliver this online, we filmed; 8 x heats, 2 x semi-finals and a final with plenty of other ‘Facebook Lives’ and content in-between too! The buskers of the streets were incredibly talented, humble and heartfelt, giving us plenty of entertainment. It reached an audience of approximately 1.5 million viewers and gained huge recognition locally, thanks to the viewers being ‘the talent scouts and the judges too’!

We are looking at expanding Busking Battles nationally this year but are currently unsure of our forward timing with current circumstances. Please have a look at these brand-new highlights that have been put together by myself and Ewis Law (cameraman and editor).

On 25th February, the team and I had the pleasure to attend the International Confex at Excel London, to see how our company PR Angels and myself, as a Presenter, can work together with various Event Industry’s, incorporating stage and screen. Watch us in action and get blown away with some of the innovative concepts!

Chung Ying Restaurant.

The joy I had when I was recently able to go out and experience an amazing place to eat and drink in the city.

I visited Chung Ying Restaurant, owned by my good friend James Wong. What a lovely occasion to get out with my partner and meet some friends from our bubble and indulge in some great cuisine, with the odd glass of wine! A fantastic new outdoor space, beautiful service and very tasty food while enjoying the pleasure of our friends. For bookings at Chung Ying please email the following  or why not give them a call on 0121 622 5669

Ok, this isn’t quite true, it’s not about me, it’s all about you! After years of TV, Radio, Online and Live Event Experience I would love to offer my services to help you, or your brand, become the star of the show. Or certainly radiate a call to action by your clients or potential new customers. I love what I do and I want to share it with you. This service allows you to showcase you for who you really are. Whether you’re a business owner, an employee or simply have a special talent you would like to share with the world. I have a story and tips to share, and so do you! Do you need help with presentation skills that could include speaking on stage, interviews for radio PTC - 'Piece to Camera' with interviews for video and much more?  Do you need new corporate videos, training videos or want to start engaging more with live content on your social media? I can help you; It’s Easy, It’s Effective and It’s as Discreet as You Need. Need a studio or scenic spot to film in? Let me help. I have an array of connections and production set-ups to ensure you are transformed, the message is fresh and most of all, meets the standards you deserve. It all starts with you taking action, what are you waiting for?

After a couple of months of mental preparation, and fundraising, it was finally time to walk over burning coals in the name of charity! Thank you to Professor Paul Cadman, who had carefully chosen 100 business entrepreneurs, and known networkers, of the city to take part in this fundraiser; while also helping to raise the profile, and cause, of Acorns Children’s Hospital. I arrived, met like-minded friends of Birmingham, drank hot chocolate, shared stories, watched some entertainment, listened to the safety talk (a comedy delivery but serious too) and then headed, via vintage bus, down to the old Victorian streets of the Black Country museum. Even though it was dark, I had actually forgotten how lovely this place was in all its glory, like time had stood still for decades. We walked around by the metalwork and furnaces section, and got barefooted, onto a dark coaled damp floor in the dark evening sky, that was flooded by moonlight. We were also surrounded by press and a crowd of 200-300 people, cameras flashing constantly, as we all raised our energies, engaged and then took our turn and walked the path of glowing heat. 

A huge THANK YOU to everybody who sponsored me, sent messages, love and support as I walked on fire ??? for Acorns Children's Hospice, Night at the Museum & Fire-walk.
Personally, you helped me raise £1000!!!

30,000 people seen the Facebook live, on the night of Thursday 12^th March 2020 on Birmingham Updates page.

100 Fire Walkers and 250 Spectators. £42,000 was raised from the event  and donations are still coming in ???
Life is about the difference we can make for ourselves, and others!

Together we can do anything ??
(You can still donate via: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/phil-oldershaw )

Imagine my delight to be approached by SPATA Ltd, The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association, to host the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards for 2020, taking place on Tuesday 28^th January.

A highlight in the calendar for this incredible industry that sees so many leading companies and brands come together to celebrate their hard work and achievements over the last year and beyond. This one in particular was a brand-new event for me to look after, and I always have a nervous excitement when stepping into the unknown for the first time. After all, I’m meeting new people, new procedures and an unknown quantity of personalities, professionalism and expectations. Nether-the-less, this is what I love to do for a living and helping people achieve their greatest results for such special occasions is my forte!

Pre-event nerves are actually really good, whether you are organising, hosting or performing. Why? Because it usually means you have a heightened adrenalin, which indeed helps you become alert and on-point, and subsequently helps with an energised and focused delivery. 

Arriving early, for a late afternoon run-through, I was greeted by the rather warming Jan who, along with colleagues, quickly made me feel welcome and at ease. Showing me the ‘greenroom’ (a relaxing, dining and changing private area that is shared with other artists) I soon had my items placed safely and securely, and also in the knowing of having a comfortable breakout space. Not every event has this, but gratefully, this event did.

Now settled, I could run through the script, 41 pages in all, and liaise with the event organisers and technicians regarding our collective delivery of the evenings schedule and awards ahead. Run-through complete, expectations now clarified, the stage set and tech almost to my liking, I could unwind and interact with other artists in the greenroom prior to me being needed onstage later. I duly changed into my evenings black tie dinner dress-code shortly before doors opened.

As guests arrived, I circulated and said hello to various groups, which often helps with building a repour and gives me insight into the different types of people, personalities and energy in the room. As everybody had dinner I retired to the greenroom to eat mine (sometimes I get to sit with the guests and dine on the set menu too) but I’m happy either way, and it can be novel to indulge with other performers and interact backstage. We were treated to a very well-made Chicken Curry (or vegetarian if so desired), accompanied by rice and mixed salad, a stunning and very light ‘bread and butter’ pudding with Devonshire custard and a range of hot and cold beverages that were beautifully presented to us by our own member of hospitality staff. I can say we were treated like very special guests and made to feel appreciated and comfortable, before delivering our required performances.

Closer to the awards I ventured out into the room and awaited my introduction onto the stage. The room full of beautifully dressed people all attentively looking stage front and hanging on my every movement, action and word. I love that immediate opportunity to engage; delivering warmth, energy and clarity with immense passion. I ran through a long list of awards, inviting a collection of; sponsors, incredible winners, and runners up, to the stage for photographs, awards and a handshake while I also integrate with video screens, sound and light. There were many fabulous guests in attendance, including; Gold Medallist Olympic Diver, Jack Laugher MBE, who interreacted and delivered with pride. Prior, and after the awards, we were able to have a good chat, planning his requirements beforehand and also reflecting on the delivery afterwards. As it happened, we had some technical issues during the main awards, which we hadn’t experienced during the rehearsal.

They always say a good presenter comes into their own when something goes wrong and I certainly didn’t fail to deliver! During the giving of awards, the sound, including microphones, completely went off, no power at all. As the tech team quickly tried to locate and rectify the issue I am stood on stage thinking, do I go on or do we wait? I knew it was a very tight schedule. The organiser explains that the amp has gone that powers what we need to make it work and tech are trying to address it asap. I ask him whether he wants me to continue without the sound system? His eyes said it all, with thanks and admiration for my efforts to continue, and quickly said, yes please Phil ,do try! That’s all I needed, I quickly jumped back into action apologising for the issue and informing the audience that tech was doing their best, but we’d continue anyway. People cheered, and I went on to raise my voice, fill the room with clarity, and take extra effort to ensure everything was repeated by myself as it happened on stage. The sound issue came and went three times, as the amp came on and quickly died again. I involved the crowd, who each time cheered and applauded as we shared that journey together. Overall, we delivered a really successful awards presentation and didn’t allow small issues, or what may have been big to some, phase us in the slightest. The show needed to go on and it did!

After the presentation awards, and the raffle that I also co-hosted with Jack Laugher MBE, we were able to reflect and appreciate what we’d pulled off. I was grateful that many movers and shakers of this incredible industry took time to come and show warming thanks for pulling off such success for their event, under potentially difficult circumstances. I take pride in knowing that my clients have bought into professionalism and it’s my job to ensure the show runs as smoothly as possible, although they cannot foresee every eventuality, we had succeeded in a time of duress. I must say that this isn’t a usual occurrence but as a consummate professional you have to be prepared for anything and not fall apart.

I really enjoyed this incredible event and find myself grateful that following the success of its execution, I was immediately invited to host again for 2021. Of which I quickly answered, yes!

Thank you to all of the teams that worked together to ensure a wonderful evening that ensured everybody had a good time.

I look forward to seeing everyone again in 2021!

Colmore Food Festival 2020!

It was with sad heart that an announcement was made to cancel this years’ 10th celebratory event in the city of Birmingham. An event I would have hosted for 9 consecutive years in a row. Usually taking place as we hit the summertime for the beginning of July, it is alive with an enormous collection of bars, restaurants, hotels, eateries, coffee shops, bakeries, Michelin Starred Chef’s and plenty of live entertainment too!

Drawing an audience of over 30,000 people this is always a special event in the Colmore Business District and is a must annual visit in many a diary. To celebrate this year, I teamed up with the CBD, some local businesses and an array of talented artists from Mr & Mrs Grey, as they performed live in each venue to acknowledge this special weekend. Check out the video link attached.

I also had the privilege to have a quick interview with Michelle Wilby, Chief Executive Officer of Colmore Business Improvement District, who answered some questions about the annual food festival event:

1. What does the 10th year mean to you and what are the current effects of the Covid-19 issue? The 10th anniversary of the Food Festival is a milestone for the BID and I was very proud and excited as to how we were going to celebrate it this year. COVID-19 has been an enormous challenge for everyone and we are all trying to anticipate what our new ‘normal’ might look like. We are working hard at the BID to support the leisure and hospitality venues however we can and are making plans to provide some parklets in the district, which will provide some informal seating at various locations – watch this space. We are looking forward to welcoming businesses safely back to the District to bring back the buzz and vibe that is #Colmore Life.

2. The joy you’ve experienced from it over the years? It is always such a high point for me, the culmination of a lot of hard work and the chance to share food and drink with all the great people who work in the District and make some new friends.

3. Why is it a highlight in the CBD diary each year? What can be better than having such an opportunity to show that Colmore is more than just business, everyone knows we work hard, but we also play hard and this gives us a chance to ‘let our hair down’ celebrating together with our great leisure and hospitality venues.

4. What does it do for the venues and businesses involved, and what is the overall impact on Colmore Business District area and Birmingham? It is such a fabulous opportunity for the leisure and hospitality venues to get together, talk, share ideas, and enjoy each other’s company. There are so many gems in the District to eat and drink in and to be able to showcase this locally and nationally is brilliant. Birmingham is a foodie destination and we love to have the opportunity to show how Colmore Business District is part of that story.

5. What are your top 10 moments from the festival over the last 10 years?

1. The first festival – it was nerve wracking but very emotional when it went so well (thanks to Tahreen Kutub!)

2. Going home feeling decidedly ill after eating too much, but not regretting it for a minute – it was the early days, I was excited

3. Dancing with so many different people over the years, celebrating the festival – my dancing feet love it!

4. Aston Performing Arts – I don’t need to say any more

5. Going to the festival in a wheel chair – the previous Saturday I had had a nasty encounter with a speed boat … nothing was going to stop me being there!

6. Glyn Purnell’s chat on the stage, never fails to entertain

7. Dancing with a pigeon – I do love the entertainers!

8. All the food and drink every year it gets better

9. Working with the BID team, Event Men and you Phil on the event, we have the best times

10. Seeing the culmination of all the hard work of whoever has organised it over the years– thanks to Tahreen, Liz, Lucy and of course Katy Paddock!!

 Michelle Wilby, Chief Executive Officer of Colmore Business Improvement District

Hosting the ‘Millennium Point Scholarship Live Final’ was fantastic. All the top five finalists did an amazing job of presenting their presentations in front of the judges to secure a scholarship placement. There could be only one winner!

Although every finalist received a brand new laptop for their efforts it was a big congratulations to Shennice Talburt for securing a scholarship at Birmingham City University.

There is one thing you can certainly count on in Birmingham in a time of need. That is, the city coming together to support each of the many communities, that make up this beautiful multi-cultural centre of the UK, in a time of need. When local businessman, James Wong, and the Chinese community asked me to help them with their fundraiser, to assist with getting much needed medical supplies, and more, to their friends and family in Wuhan,China, then I jumped to the challenge. Actually, when I say challenge, it was far from that for me. I simply had to help spread the word ahead of the event and turn up to an ITV interview, prior to hosting the evenings event on Monday 10^th February 2020.

James Wong and Wendy Choy of the Chinese Community, and James, also Chair of Southside BID, were supported by President of the Overseas Chinese Association, Tom Lee. Collectively they pulled together an event fundraising idea that would have only 10 days to execute. No small feat for anybody hosting such a gathering. However, Birmingham being what it is, we all pulled together and worked hard to ensure that this would be a true success and give support to those in need.

A big thank you goes to Cairn Hotel Group (Holiday inn) who gave their amazing, and newly refitted, Birmingham Conference & Events Centre (Hill Street) for FREE! Chung Ying Cantonese Restaurant supplied all of the incredible food for FREE, which included for each table; whole seabass, steamed chicken, roasted duck, sweet & sour chicken, beef in black-bean sauce, and an endless list of other starts and mains. An array of sponsors gave cash in kind, auction and raffle prizes, and of course bought tables at £700 each (for 10) for approximately 200 people to be in attendance on a Monday evening in February!

The night kicked off with an array of movers and shakers from the city playing their part and networking freely before the main event.

As the host of the evening I had finally managed to get James Wong to sit down (only 20 mins before the commencement of the event) and run through: a schedule, running order, special guest speakers, prizes and entertainment; and was subsequently able to make myself a plan! I must confess, I do not normally work on such a ‘final hour’ production schedule but under the circumstances, many of the details hadn’t been finalised until that day and James was still asking his team questions as we sat down to plan. However, I am able to deal with last minute changes, being a consummate professional, so we merely stretched my idea of changes to accommodate. 

A last-minute check-in with Darren, the sound and light technician, and I was calling people to dinner in the main arena and opening the event. A warm welcome and insight into the night’s schedule followed by me welcoming an array of distinguished guests to speak and pledge their support to help Birmingham help others in Wuhan. We welcomed: The Birmingham Lord Mayor – Councillor Mohamed Aziz, West Midlands Mayor – Andy Street, President of The Overseas Chinese Association – Tom Lee, James Wong – Chinese Festival Committee, Southside BID Chair, Owner of Chung Ying Group and finally, Professor KK Cheng from the University of Birmingham who gave a powerful but practical insight into the Coronavirus, and as with any virus, how to try and be careful in everyday life, especially about washing hands and other simple things, in stopping the spread of germs. All spoke with passion and togetherness, which made you feel incredibly proud as a Birmingham businessman, resident and fellow human-being! Other guests included Southside BID, Birmingham Chinese Lions, The Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre, Bootcamp Media, Colmore BID, Councillor Alex Yip and Birmingham City Council. Too many to name but all incredibly worthy and appreciated.

My role was simple, or I certainly make look it, that is; keep it energised, keep it flowing and ensure that the message is clear and thus achieving a successful end result. There were performances from: Wan Sheung Dance, Birmingham’s Chinese Society Karaoke, Dan’s Dance and finally the fantastic Elegant Entertainment. A raffle with incredible prizes from numerous donors in the city, businesses and personal, and also an auction that included artwork by Nancy Duan and also Kealey Farmer too. I worked the auction to its max and collectively the raffles and auction raised circa £4,500.

As a host I like to work the room and ensure people are enjoying themselves and feel engaged with the evening, that is my role. Here, I didn’t fail to deliver, and the entire evening was a huge success. People had fun, ate well, enjoyed traditional Chinese and British entertainment, heard some passionate speeches and were able to network with friends, colleagues and strangers alike, who maybe became new friends.

I really love what I do as a host, whether it’s a corporate event, an awards dinners, charity night, opening of some kind, a fashion show and so much more. I aim to bring togetherness, and ensure smoothness, taking the pressure off the organiser so they can relax and enjoy what they’ve created. I felt privileged to host something that would help so many, while also helping the people in the room enjoy a fundraising evening.

In all, we raised £33,525.00 for China, and the people of Wuhan!

The right host helps get to the right result but it’s the coming together of a team of like-minded people that really helps make things happen.

Congratulations to everybody who gave their time freely, gave event space, supplied entertainment, organised the night, donated prizes, bought tickets, gave speeches and attended the evening; including the support from BBC Midlands Today and ITV Central News.

Phil Oldershaw

Presenter/ Host / MC

www.philoldershaw.com