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In this engaging conversation, Niloufar Lamakan shares her journey as an author, discussing her debut novel 'Aged to Perfection' and the challenges she faced in the writing and publishing process. She emphasises the importance of resilience in the face of rejection and the need to break stereotypes surrounding age in literature. Niloufar also highlights her passion for dancing and her unique approach to marketing her book, while looking forward to future projects that continue to celebrate age defiance.

Niloufar Lamakan is an Iranian-born author and artist. She moved to the UK as a child and has lived in London most of her life. She came to writing after careers in technology, design, art, and property. Her debut novel, Aged to Perfection, won the Commendation Award at the Comedy Women in Print Prize and was a finalist at the Page Turner Awards.

She writes bold, romantic comedies that are unapologetically age defiant. Her art also explores the connections between age, identity, and society’s perceptions of beauty. When she’s not painting or writing, you’ll find her on the dancefloor.

Links:

Amazon link https://mybook.to/2x8xO

Instagram Niloufar Lamakan, Author (@nlamakan) • Instagram photos and videos

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nlamakan

Website https://www.niloufarlamakan.com/

Takeaways

Niloufar's debut novel won the commendation award at the Comedy Women in Print Prize.

She faced 42 rejections before finding success with her book.

Resilience is key in the writing and publishing journey.

Niloufar aims to challenge age stereotypes in literature.

Her protagonist is a 60-year-old woman, showcasing age defiance.

Marketing a book often falls on the author, not just the publisher.

Dancing brings joy and a sense of freedom to Niloufar's life.

She believes there is no such thing as age-appropriate behaviour.

Niloufar is currently working on her second novel.

The Sophia Spritzer cocktail reflects her protagonist's personality.

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In this engaging conversation, Maralyn shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in Paris and London to becoming a renowned stained glass artist. She discusses the pivotal moments in her life, including motherhood, health challenges, and the rediscovery of her artistic passion. Maralyn reflects on her experiences in the art world, the impact of her work, and the importance of legacy as she prepares to pass her knowledge to the next generation. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about a cocktail inspired by her creative spirit.

Maralyn is one of the UK's foremost stained glass artists, with work in countries all over the world. After 30 years as an artist, she recently retired to enjoy life.

Born in the 50’s, Maralyn’s youth was spent in Paris & London where she fell in love with the shop windows and architecture. However, she was told by her art teacher that she would never amount to anything!

After travelling the world, aged 40 and suffering from a debilitating illness, Maralyn enrolled on an art degree from Sunderland University specialising in glass and ceramics where she found her calling. Her work has included public & private commissions ranging from personal windows to an entire cathedral.

For commissions, contact artcetera@live.co.uk

Takeaways

Maralyn's childhood in Paris influenced her artistic journey.

Motherhood sparked Maralyn's return to creativity.

An art teacher's discouragement fuelled Maralyn's determination.

Health challenges led Maralyn to pursue her art education later in life.

Maralyn's work in stained glass has brought her joy and fulfilment.

Art can play a significant role in healing and recovery.

Maralyn's family has been a strong support system throughout her career.

The importance of legacy in passing on knowledge to future generations.

Maralyn's experiences have opened many doors in her life.

Creativity can be spontaneous and deeply personal.

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In this engaging conversation, Barbara Barnes shares her inspiring life journey, from her early career as a primary school teacher to her extensive community service and charity work. At 84, she reflects on her adventures, including daring fundraising activities like wing walking and abseiling, all while advocating for Alzheimer's Scotland. Barbara discusses the challenges of aging, her motivations for helping others, and her philosophy on life, emphasizing that age should not limit one's aspirations. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about her unique cocktail creation, Scottea, blending her Scottish and Yorkshire roots.

Barbara retired as a primary teacher in 2001. She has been a Justice of the Peace, a member of the board for Alzheimer Scotland for 10 years, a Vale of Leven Citizen and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 2013.

From 1999, aged 59, she started doing amazing things to raise money for various charities including: Alzheimer Scotland, the Stroke Association and Talking Newspaper. She has done: 5 abseils, 6 zip lines, a sky dive, 3 sponsored walks and 2 fire walks. For fun she has also climbed Ben Lomond and Sydney Harbour Bridge, gone gliding, had a helicopter ride and at aged 70 she did a wing walk!

Takeaways

Barbara was a primary school teacher for most of her working life and notes that the profession has changed enormously since she retired.

Barbara has been involved with Alzheimer's Scotland since 1986 due to her family's history with dementia.

She runs a choir for people with dementia and their carers, providing a supportive community.

Barbara has raised thousands for various charities through adventurous activities.

She completed a wing walk at the age of 70, showcasing her adventurous spirit.

Barbara believes age should not limit one's ability to try new things.

She has participated in numerous fundraising stunts, including abseiling and fire walking.

Barbara's son supports her actively.

Her cocktail, Scottea, combines whisky and Yorkshire tea, reflecting her heritage.

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