Whoever decided February should have only 28 days clearly underestimated just how much can be crammed into such a short month! It was a whirlwind of events, community spirit, and—of course—some rather unexpected adventures.
At the start of the month, I had the pleasure of meeting the wonderful ladies of the Olton Crochet Group—a delightful, talented bunch! Among them was a very young participant who might just be the next big thing in crochet (watch this space!).
Then came the Apprenticeship Show, where I met future industry leaders and attempted to build a straw bridge with Balfour Beatty VINCI. If you’re wondering, no, I did not embark on a sudden career change in engineering—some bridges are best left to the experts!
We celebrated the long-serving employee awards—hats off to those dedicated individuals—and hosted the Birmingham International Tattoo, a must-see spectacle of music, marching, and military precision.
Schools got active too! Four schools stepped up for the Active Travel Ambassadors campaign, and I got my hands dirty planting hedges at Forest Oak School, where I also discovered my hidden talent as a worm whisperer (don’t ask!).
The Love Solihull Volunteer Recognition Awards were a heartwarming highlight, celebrating individuals making a real difference to our local wildlife and biodiversity. Thanks to their efforts: Hedgehogs are back, goldcrests are gracing us with their presence, and even barn owls have been spotted—huge thanks to Solihogs Hedgehog Rescue for keeping our spiky friends safe!
Just when I thought I might catch a breather, I found myself at the Heart of England Community Foundation’s 30th anniversary, followed by tea with the Chair of Governors, CEO, and Director from Solihull College and University Centre (Blossomfield Campus). It was truly inspiring to see such dedicated individuals shaping the future course for our next generation.
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham and I met with the incredible women of ANAWIM to discuss the barriers women face and the invaluable work they do in empowering and supporting them.
Up north in the borough, I joined a litter pick with young people from Solihull College and University Centre (Woodland Campus). What an inspiring group—one young lad even shared how this opportunity was a new lifeline for him.
We also celebrated Solihull Additional Needs’ 9th anniversary at Elmwood Hub, they launched a new website, welcomed Dr. Tom Bates, Team GB Performance Psychologist, for an insightful conversation, and attended the Solihull Holiday Activities and Food Program celebration event.
Then, I had the chance to meet our MP, Neil Shastri-Hurst, to discuss his plans and priorities for our community—an engaging and important conversation about the future of Solihull.
As if the schedule wasn’t already packed, I found myself at the Solihull Hebrew Congregation, where we baked Challah together. Three loaves later, I can confidently say: Paul Hollywood has nothing to worry about!
Before our Full Council meeting, my chaplain and I took on the static bike challenge—though I think "challenge" is a strong word for my performance! I won’t mention my stats (for everyone's sake), but the Mayor’s Chaplain was playing it cool, effortlessly pedalling away. Oh, and for those who aren’t Aston Villa fans, you might want to look away now… let’s just say some allegiances were very clearly on display!
Finally, February wrapped up with Annie the Musical, a perfect way to reflect on the sheer variety of experiences packed into those 28 days.
We began this month with one festival, celebrating renewal and prosperity, and I end this musing as we begin Ramadhan—a time of reflection, resilience, and giving back. To all those fasting, I wish you a peaceful and fulfilling Ramadhan.
If February has taught me anything, it’s that festivals bring us together, volunteers strengthen our communities, and young people—given the right chances—can build bridges to brighter futures. This month may have been short, but just like Annie’s unwavering optimism, its impact will shine long into the year ahead—because, after all, the sun’ll come out tomorrow!