In a world of career politicians it seems impossible that any ordinary person could rise to govern and guide a developed country.
As a man who grew up being told that the way he looked and acted was a disadvantage, President Obama has proved you don’t have to come from the right family to be the right man for the job.
State of play – Barack Obama Action Figure
If there’s a better way to immortalise his ascent to power than a desk toy we don’t know it… With great power comes a great sense of humour and we’re sure the man himself would appreciate the fun in having a giant, but cute, head toy. You never know, in 50 years it might be worth something as political history memorabilia – too bad they never made any for Churchill during the war.
Earth-friendly materials are used to produce stylish and smart audio devices, inspired by Bob Marley himself. Built with beech wood and recyclable aluminium, these colourful ranges include the Jammin’ collection, made specifically for robust bass. All headphones have the option of fabric cord, which helps reduce tangles and is specially engineered to cut down on static, while three sizes of ear tips provide noise isolation. All products support 1Love – the Marley charity dedicated to supporting youth, planet and peace.
For readers who know they’re the next great leader, you’re going to want the first iPad stand. It’s fitting we include an accessory for a product created by the late Steve Jobs – a great leader himself – and an excellent platform from which to launch your own career. Clip on your tablet and watch Steve introduce the first Apple Mac, or President Obama’s inauguration ceremony. Collapsible and with different height levels, practise giving motivational speeches for interviews and presentations from it; it’s a good start to a bright and promising future. And if you don’t like it? Design one yourself. £144.99, www.firebox.com
The Dark ages
Batman Begins/Gotham Knight
As the new Batman film comes out in late 2012, we thought we’d start the excitement early and look at what’s already out there. The reason Batman is so popular is that he achieves everything he does despite disillusionment, upheaval and horror – and with the help of millions of dollars, of course, but that’s no use without brains, and the Caped Crusader is strong of mind as well as body. Before you go and enjoy the new film – and Christopher Nolan will make sure you do – get a hold of this three-disc set and remember how it all began.
So once you’ve feasted your eyes on our glorious fashion and beauty pages, you’re going to want to try out all our tips and picks, right? And what better light to apply your new make-up in than this cute LED-embedded compact, which comes in a range of styles – Black, Beau Bow Pink, Portrait Blue, and Hippy Skull Black. Perfect make-up, any time, any place.
Now, if you want to see all the latest tech, this’ll blow your minds! All under five roofs of the NEC in April, the annual Gadget Show Live is the place to be if you want the chance to try and buy hundreds of amazing products – you’ll be dressed to impress with the latest gadgetry. With zones, including Music, Game, Photographic and In-Car, along with lots of interactive entertainment, it promises to be out of this world; plus the Channel Five show’s presenters, Suzi, Ortis, Jason, Jon and Pollyanna, will all be there too.
