Proverbs passed down by generations are the latest tool to inspire and educate black youngsters about their heritage.
The pearls of wisdom in a boxed set of 52 cards titled Things Mama Used to Say are the brainchild of life coach Lorlett Hanson, who hopes her new venture will be an essential resource for schools around the country.
They are survival strategies which she hopes may help under-acheiving youngsters do better and identify with their own culture.
"I feel every home should have a set of these proverbs because they are a source of inspiration which can still empower and enrich us," said Jamaica-born Lorlett.
"I was brought up by grandmother, and she spoke continuously in proverbs which have helped me through life."
Four years ago Lorlett, aged 49, launched her own training and education agency, One Hand Can't Clap, which is based on another Caribbean proverb meaning it takes a whole village to raise a child.
She currently lives in London, but has family in Handsworth. She has already won accolades for her cards including the British Female Inventors and Innovators Award.
Bishop Joe Aldred, of the Council for Black-led Churches in Birmingham said: "Prov-erbs are important in three ways: They bring to us wisdom from the past, they provide answers to contemporary situations, and they provide continuity with the past."
