Cover HELEN DESBOIS & HUSBAND MICHAEL RENEWING THEIR VOWS. WITH ALEX (22) & OLIVER (8)
ed’s letter Hello Happy People
ABOUT US www.childoftheuniverse.co.za
PUBLISHER 2Luni Media EDITOR Linda Navon 071 346 8138 linda@childoftheuniverse.co.za OUR “Little Boss” Carmen Ché Jardim SUB–EDITOR, NATIONAL SALES & MARKETING Cj Stott Matticks 082 900 1010 candida@childoftheuniverse.co.za DISTRIBUTION & RESEARCH Lee Coulter WRITER Dani Jardim dani@childoftheuniverse.co.za PHOTOGRAPHER Edward Jardim CONTACT NUMBERS TEL: (011) 462-2900 0110 262 643 0110 468 737
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With mid-year coming up, most of the long weekends behind us, thank goodness, and all our winter jammies unpacked, I hope this month’s magazine find you all well and getting ready for a couple of chilly months in your cozy homes. I would like to encourage you to take a look through your house and cupboards for old clothing and blankets that you no longer use – pack them in your car and either drop them off at a collection point, an orphanage or hand them out on the side of the road. Every night when I snuggle down in my warm bed I feel very sad for the many people who have no means of keeping warm, never mind putting food into their children’s tummies. It’s a very sad fact of life that there are people suffering when there are so many of us who could make a tiny difference – just do one little thing to make someone else’s life a little bit happier. I know I go on about this, but I do wish I had a magic wand and I could keep tummies full and people warm… amongst a whole bunch of other wishes! Recently I heard about a new game that the kids are playing on their tablets and phones, a game which apparently has caused children overseas to commit suicide – so please keep a careful eye on what your kids are subject to on the internet, and what games they are playing with their friends. On the brighter side – we have the lovely Helen Desbois gracing our cover with her family. I spend the whole of Sunday researching information on her that she very ‘un-assumingly’ didn’t supply. Let me tell you, she is one POWER WOMAN…. Jammed packed with energy and enthusiasm. She is particularly proud to be the chosen Ambassador of the Growing Champs project, which we have written about as well. I hope it inspires you to get involved with a Charity or Cause in your area. . Much Love
Linda
contents 10 Things you MUST keep in your car
PEACEFUL PARENTING Love = Good Parenting? Setting Firm & Kind Limits Reinforce your Immune System Have you had a Hug Today? Teen Suicide – The Moody Teenager
DOWN TO EARTH WITH HELEN DESBOIS Getting to know the very talented Helen, and personally wondering how to keep up with her!
REACH OUT Fun Fundraiser for Logan on his Microcephaly Journey Growing Champions – an exceptional project
EDUCTIONAL TOYS AND LEANING EQUIPMENT OUT & ABOUT YUMMY TUMMY Cooking with Kids
READING Suggested and available reading material
The 10 things you need to have in your car Whether you’re driving a brand-new vehicle or a previously loved car with plenty of mileage, there are certain items that you should always have in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Here is a checklist of the top ten. Phone charger Keep a spare charger in your car for those moments when your phone’s battery is critically low and you need to call for emergency help.
Torch You can use the torch app on your phone but it will drain your battery, so keep a torch with spare batteries. It’s important if you’re stuck at night or need to look inside the bonnet or under the car.
Jumper cables Batteries can go flat, so keep jumper cables in your boot and make sure you know how to use them. You will, however, need to ask a Good Samaritan to help you start your car! Spare wheel If you have a puncture you’ll have to change your tyre, so it’s crucial that your spare is in good condition. Also check that you have a wrench and jack, and that you know how to change a tyre.
Tyre sealant In case you don’t know how to change your tyre or you need a quick solution, have an aerosol sealant so that you can temporarily plug the leak and get to the closest petrol station.
Owner’s manual Keep this in your cubbyhole as it has very useful information about how your car operates. It could help you identify and fix the problem to get you back on the road.
Reflective triangles By law you need to have a double-sided red reflective triangle in your vehicle. If you’ve broken down on the side of a public road, use it to warn other motorists.
First aid kit Having a basic kit in your car could save someone’s life. Check it regularly to ensure nothing has expired and replenish items after you’ve used them.
Tow rope If you’ve broken down and you need to be towed to the closest petrol station, a tow rope is an essential item to have.
Map You might have a GPS in your vehicle, but technology can sometimes let you down or you may be out of signal, so have a map book just in case you get lost. Article by Indwe Risk Services - Information sources: Santam, MiWay and Wheels24.
By Dr Shefali
Love = Good Parenting? It’s Time to Rethink the Equation I can still hear my grandmother’s voice in my ear, gentle and assuring, “You are so sweet and loving, you are going to make the best parent in the world.” My chest swelled with pride, as I gullibly believed her promise. I am loving, I will make the best parent. Love = good parenting. And then I became a parent. And there – in those early years – exhausted beyond belief from lack of sleep and self-care – that all those loving feelings that I thought I had ample of, flew out the window.
Left behind, was the most un-motherly mother possible! I was angry, irritable and dare I say, resentful of the fact that I had to take care of a being that – on most days – I had no idea how to and no one was going to a) rescue me….ever b) there was no huge bonus salary at the end of the year and c) I wasn’t going to be awarded by her or my spouse that Parent of the Year award, because it seemed as if these endless hours of giving and more giving…was just something I was “supposed” to do.
It then dawned on me, “This love thing doesn’t last in times of exhaustion or cluelessness! I can have all the love in the world for my child, but it doesn’t keep me calm, loving or present. In fact, the more I believe I love my child, the more I want to scream at it when it doesn’t abide by my wishes.” And then the sober truth surfaced: All this love for my child, my spouse, everyone really, was all about me. ME, ME, ME. How they made ME feel. If they made ME feel good, competent and worthy, then I was fully in love. The moment they did not follow my commands and fill my needs I was resentful, childish, needy and of course, judgmental and controlling. So then what was the missing ingredient? I wondered. I thought love was the be-all and end-all.
Consciousness! That’s what it was. What does this mean exactly? •
The ability to be conscious of how my love was conditional – ouch, this awareness really hurts! After all, who wants to admit that they love someone because of how the other person makes them feel and has little do with how they feel about the other? We see this with our spouses and our children especially. On the days that they listen and follow our fantasy of them, we are our most gentle and patient. The moment they stray from our expectations and fantasies of them, everything comes crashing down. We manipulate, threaten and control — especially our children, who society says we have every right to. This is where our love becomes toxic.
•
The ability to be conscious of how – when threatened – other feelings rival that of love, and in many cases, devour love completely – most significantly, the rival emotion of fear. When we feel like our “love” is going unappreciated, or is not making the difference we thought it would make in the other person’s life, then we enter a state of helplessness and loss of control. This triggers a primal state of fear within us – a fear of our inadequacy and lack of agency. Once this fear is triggered, we can do only one of two things: avoid it by seeking refuge in unhealthy objects (booze, food, gossip, negative relationships) or control it through a raging temper tantrum. In these moments we realize that our love is threadbare and can be easily overtaken by other feelings triggered by fear.
•
The ability to be conscious that we need to develop an awareness that transcends emotions – this is a tricky one isn’t it? We have been told that our emotions lead us to our truth. I don’t believe this. I believe that our emotions lead us to blindly react to events and situations, which then take us further and further away from our truth. Instead, our feelings, and the pure and simple feeling of our feelings – something very few of us can really do – take us to our truth. Feeling our feelings does not mean complaining about them, venting them to others or wallowing in them. It means being aware that they emerge from a false self and are not our true self. Our true self is pure awareness. This realization leads us to develop a transcendent awareness that is higher and greater than our feelings – it is a state of presence that is able to stay constant no matter what we are feeling. It is a witnessing state of observance that allows the feelings to be felt in their pure form without the need to project or control these feelings in some way. This requires discipline and practice. This is what it means to be conscious — and when we are conscious, we are automatically loving, in fact, the most loving we can be, because we own our feelings and take care of themselves by ourselves, without needing the other to soothe them for us.
It is only when we are able to understand that love without consciousness is just another emotion, that we will desire to grow into a higher awareness. If we simply cling to the emotion of love for the sake of its name and idea, we will be lost in its capriciousness and prey to its conditions. When we rise to a state of awareness of our love – just as we do of our other emotions – then we are able to love ourselves and the other as they are – without expecting them to change or love us back in exactly the way we need them to. Our love for them no longer becomes about us. We are out of the equation. Now, we either choose to love the other person for who it is they are, or we don’t.
Now, love is about them – as they are …but of course, it is so about our ability to choose consciously.
So ultimately, our ability to love another, comes from our ability to be conscious of how we need to unconditionally love ourselves first. When we are able to meet our own needs, we are then able to love another fully and wholly.
When we love from a place of need, the love for the other is really about need, dependency and control. Examine your love for others from this lens. You may be surprised about its shallowness and conditionality. Don’t be disheartened. This is perhaps the path to a greater love: one that is tempered with consciousness.
Love with consciousness? Ah, now we are talking about true love. Dr Shefali can be contacted for Skype and phone sessions.
Positive Discipline
Setting Firm And Kind Limits To complement the Montessori method of self-discipline, Voila Montessori also uses the Positive Discipline method to encourage parents and caregivers to use a firm and kind approach, with the understanding that children need to be connected to be successful in learning social skills. The Positive Discipline Parenting and Classroom Management models are aimed at developing mutually respectful relationships. Positive Discipline teaches adults to employ kindness and firmness at the same time and is neither punitive nor permissive. The tools and concepts of Positive Discipline include: • • • • • •
Mutual respect: Adults model firmness by respecting themselves and the needs of the situation, and kindness by respecting the needs of the child. Identifying the belief behind the behavior: Effective discipline recognizes the reasons kids do what they do and works to change those beliefs, rather than merely attempting to change behavior. Effective communication and problem-solving skills Discipline that teaches which is neither permissive nor punitive Focusing on solutions instead of punishment Encouragement, instead of praise: Encouragement notices effort and improvement, not just success, and builds long-term self-esteem and empowerment. by Jeanne Marie Paynel: Voila Montessori
Your immune system – can you really reinforce it?
By Judy Beyers for Flora Force
In general, your immune system does a great job of defending you against disease-causing microorganisms. But sometimes it fails – a germ penetrates successfully and makes you sick. How do you build up your immune system? Or can’t you? Here’s the lowdown from the lab. What can you do to improve your immune system? The immune system is complex. It’s not a single entity. To function well, all its components must be in balance (much like your car’s engine). It’s so complex, in fact, that researchers have yet to understand its complete workings and how they’re affected by lifestyle. So the news from the lab is – further studies are needed. Don’t lose heart, say the scientists at Harvard Medical School. Lifestyle choices definitely impact on the immune system – those busy men in the lab are simply trying to discover how. ‘In the meantime, general healthy-living strategies are a good way to start giving your immune system the upper hand,’ the report advises. So, Dear Immune System, how can I help?
Type ‘Boost your immune system’ in the subject line of any search engine and you’ll be tripping over the information, from the wild to the useful. Some of it was compiled here at Flora Force, based on sound medical research. Immune system health is a topic we’re passionate about, naturally! We’ve extracted some of the very best advice to help you do the best for yours.
Choose a healthy lifestyle Every part of your body, including your immune system, works better if you: • • • • • • • • •
Don’t smoke. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and less saturated fat. Exercise regularly. Maintain a healthy weight. Control your blood pressure. Drink alcohol in moderation. Get adequate sleep. Ward off infection by washing your hands regularly, cooking foods properly. Get regular medical screening tests for people in your age group and risk category.
Talking diet Like any fighting force, the immune system army marches on its stomach. Bad diet equals poor combat skills. There is some evidence that people whose diets lack micronutrients such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper, folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, C and E, have ‘altered’ immune responses. Research is ongoing…
So, until the facts are conclusive, what can you do? If you prefer white bread to wholegrain and you’re not a fan of veggies or fruit, your diet probably isn’t providing you with all your micronutrient needs. Please follow our simple dietary advice, and take a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement to keep yourself fighting fit. (And please choose fresh above fast foods!)
Herbs and other supplements The number of ‘immune boosters’ on shop shelves is overwhelming. Which can you trust? Demonstrating whether a herb, or any substance for that matter, can enhance immunity is, as yet, ‘a highly complicated matter,’ the report states. It’s an issue that must be approached with gravity. And we do…
Tried-and-trusted Flora Force Echi-MuneTM is an unadulterated, whole-herb remedy that combines echinacea with other herbs to support your immune system and help you recover quickly after illness. You can get Echi-MuneTM online from our online partner Faithful to Nature.
Age and your immune system As you get older, your immune system becomes less able to fight infections and diseases. While the real reason for this is unknown, there is a school of thought that suggests the thymus produces fewer infection-fighting T cells as we age; another asserts that our bone marrow becomes less efficient at producing the stem cells that give rise to the cells of the immune system. Our diet changes as we age – we tend to eat a smaller variety of foods. So it’s not unlikely that we end up lacking important micronutrients and trace minerals that are obtained from or supplemented by diet. Supplementation may be beneficial as we age.
Tried-and-trusted Flora Force Echi-MuneTM is an unadulterated, wholeherb remedy that combines echinacea with other herbs to support your immune system and help you recover quickly after illness. You can get Echi-MuneTM online from our online partner Faithful to Nature.
We recommend healthy eating and supplementing with Flora Force Gotu Kola. This pick-me-up helps support immune function and also improves memory. Get it from our online partner Faithful To Nature.
What about stress? It’s now widely recognised that the mind and body are interconnected. According to Harvard’s medical researchers, ‘A wide variety of maladies, including stomach upset, hives and even heart disease are linked to the effects of emotional stress.’
It’s difficult to pinpoint the relationship between stress and the immune system. What exactly is stress? One person’s stressful situation is another’s spur forward. And how accurately do you interpret the amount of stress your body is actually experiencing? Scientists can only measure bodily reactions that may reflect stress, such as a raised pulse (although that could also reflect other factors). At Harvard, ‘chronic stress, such as that caused by relationships with family, friends, and coworkers, or sustained challenges to perform well at one’s work,’ is under the microscope. Scientists are working to establish the effects, if any, of ongoing stress on the immune system. We know that stress can affect sleep, and that too little sleep increases your chance of succumbing to sickness. Our advice? Try to get your stress levels under control.
How Hugs Heal Have You Had a Hug Today?
By Dr. Mercola
From the time you were born until the day you die, touch is an important part of your emotional and physical health. Infants deprived of touch grow up with developmental and cognitive delays, attachment disorders and higher risk of serious infections. On the other hand, premature infants who are held skin-to-skin exhibit better cognitive skills, are more resilient to stress and have more organized sleep patterns, even 10 years later. These early touch-based interventions demonstrate the need for touch in psychological regulation. The benefits of touch don’t diminish with age. The late Virginia Satir, psychotherapist and generally acknowledged as a pioneer in family therapy, spoke about the importance of touch and hugs as it relates to a person’s emotional health, saying:
“We need [four] hugs a day for survival. We need [eight] hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”
Teen Suicide FACTS ABOUT TEENAGE SUICIDE According to WHO, a suicide occurs every 40 seconds and an attempt is made every 3 seconds In South African, hanging is the most frequently employed method of suicide, followed by shooting, gassing and burning Risk factors for suicide among the young include the presence of mental illness- especially depression , conduct disorder, alcohol and drug abuse; previous suicide attempts ; and the availability of firearms in the home. In South Africa 60% of people who commit suicide are depressed The suicide rate for children aged 10-14 years old has more than doubled over the last fifteen years In South Africa the average suicide is 17.2 per 100 000 (8% of all deaths). This relates only to deaths reported by academic hospitals. The real figure is higher “Suicide shouldn’t be a secret” “We cannot measure the value of life cut short by suicide. We cannot calculate the impact a person might have had on the world around them or on the people whose lives they may have touched. But through a partnership between survivors, business and community leaders, scientists and dedicated individuals we can vanish this needless tragedy”
How do you really feel? • • • • • • • • • • • • •
I feel guilty; I have no confidence ? I feel I am a failure or have let my family down ? I have lost interest in my hobbies. Most of the time I would rather be alone ? I often feel restless or tired ? I have trouble concentrating on things like homework or watching TV ? I have trouble sleeping or I sleep too much ? My appetite has increased or decreased ? I have unrealistic ideas about the great things that I am going to do ? My thoughts race. I can’t slow my mind down ? I often think about death. Thoughts about suicide pop into my mind ? I like very dangerous activities ? I use drugs and/or alcohol on a regular basis ?
If you have (or had) four or more of these feelings, and if they last longer than two weeks, you may have depression.
What to do if you suspect someone close to you may be contemplating suicide While some suicides may occur without any outward warning, most do not. The most effective way to prevent suicide is to learn to recognise the signs of someone at risk, take these signs seriously and know how to respond to them.
KNOW THE DANGER SIGNS Previous suicide attempts: Between 20 and 50 percent of people who kill themselves have previously attempted suicide. Those who make serious suicide attempts are at much greater risk of actually taking their lives. Talking about death or suicide: People who commit suicide often talk about it directly or indirectly. Be alert to such statements as, “My family would be better off without me”. Sometimes those contemplating suicide talk as if they are saying goodbye or going away. Depression: Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed. Serious depression can be manifested in obvious sadness, but often it is expressed instead as a loss of pleasure or withdrawal from activities that had once been enjoyable.
Be concerned about depressed persons if at least five of the following symptoms have been present nearly every day for at least two weeks:
- depressed mood - change in sleeping patterns - change in appetite or weight - speaking or moving with unusual speed or slowness - fatigue or loss of energy - feelings of worthlessness , self-reproach or guilt - thoughts of death or suicide Additional factors that point to an increased risk for suicide in depressed individuals are: - Extreme anxiety, agitation or enraged behaviour - Excessive drug and / or alcohol use or abuse - History of physical or emotional illness - Feelings of hopelessness or desperation
TAKE THE SIGNS SERIOUSLY - 75% of all suicides give some warning of their intentions to a friend or family member - All suicide threats and attempts should be taken seriously.
BE WILLING TO LISTEN - Take the initiative to ask what is troubling them - If your friend or relative is depressed DON’T be afraid to ask whether he/she is considering suicide - Do NOT attempt to argue anyone out of suicide, rather let the person know that you care and understand that they are not alone, that suicidal feelings are temporary, that depression can be treated and that problems can be solved. AVOID the temptation to say, “ You have so much to live for” or that “ suicide will hurt your family”.
IN A CRISIS - In an acute crisis , take the person to an emergency room or walk-in clinic – DO NOT leave the person alone until help is available - Remove drugs , razors, scissors or firearms that could be used in a suicide attempt away from the potentially suicidal person - If the above options are unavailable call your local emergency numbers.
FOLLOW- UP TREATMENT - Take an active role to ensure that the prescribed medication is taken and report any unexpected side effects to a doctor. - Continue to offer support after treatment has been initiated
SADAG Mental Health Line 011 234 4837 Akeso Psychiatric Response Unit 24 Hour 0861 435 787
Helen Desbois is an all-round performer with more than 20 years experience gained on stage, TV and radio. She is an actress, singer, dancer, voice artist, recording artist and radio presenter with vast experience in all mentioned fields. These include appearing in various stage productions, such as A Lad n' a Lamp for Janice Honeyman, Joe Parker’s Puss n' Boots, the lead in Boogie Nights for the Joburg Theatre, the role of Madonna in Immaculate the Madonna Tribute, Debbie Does Dallas, understudy to lead and supporting lead and the smash hit musical, We Will Rock You , Hazel Feldman's touring production to NZ and Asia. She has appeared in many TV shows too, from Hard Copy, Isidingo and ‘Shado's’ to ‘One Way’ with her debut as a lead in Honeytown . Helen has presented on Teleschool and the Milo Gameshow with many commercials under her belt as well, including Vanish, KFC and Lasher Tools to name but a few. Helen also spent a week in the Big Brother house on the celebrity version of the show, raising millions for charity. Radio presenting is close to her heart, with three MTN Radio Award nominations and one win under her belt, for ‘Best Daytime Community Presenter’. Helen has worked on East Rand Stereo, Chai FM and CliffCentral and now co-hosts the breakfast show on Mix93.8FM with Tony Blewitt. She is a popular voice artist as the voice of the Peoples Weather Channel and credits with Disney, Citroen, Sealy, DStv, Trace Sports International and many more.
I am honored to be chosen as the ambassador for Growing Champions and get to spend time with these amazing young men, inspire them, introduce them to theatre and teach them to communicate and be proud of who they are. I am always on the lookout for ways to help them and show them new experiences.
Tell us about a day in the life of Helen? I normally wake up at 4h30am so that i can be at the Mix93.8fm studios in Midrand by about 5h30am in order to compile the news and prep for the show. I am on air from 6-9am with the legend Tony Blewitt and Steve Smith on sport. We have fun every single day and it is the perfect way to start my day, with laughter and joy. I normally try and get to the gym straight after the radio show, another important activity in my life to keep my energy up and of course keep me in tip top shape. I am the female voice of ‘people’s weather’, channel 180 on DSTV, so I pretty much script and record for them every day too. Once that is all sorted, I spend some time on my website ‘Showbiz in Full HD’ and then it is off to do the school run and drop my son, Oliver off at whatever sport are on the cards that day. I am quite busy as a member of the media too and often have to attend events and launches in the evenings. All in all a busy and fruitful life.
As a mother, what is the one quality you would like to instill in your son that will serve him for the rest of his life? I would like for my son to be an honest and respectful gentleman and live his life with kindness just as his father does.
What are your guilty pleasures? I love popcorn and I must say, I am a little addicted to Instagram.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you have any hobbies? Gym is a hobby and I love dancing too and try and get to a class every now and then. I have become a food lover too and also like to try new restaurants and dishes.
Lesser known talents of yours? I am a qualified sailor. I never did make it to fully fledged skipper but one day I will achieve that.
List 4 of your favourite things in life and why they are your favourites. Laughing - it really is the best medicine Giving back - I am in a position to do so, therefore it makes perfect sense Family dinners - every Friday the boys and I go out for a meal together, it is the highlight of my week Singing - I sing along to every single song pretty much and a friend once told me I walk as though I always have a song in my head
4 items on your bucket list • • • •
Own a yacht Travel to Japan Record a full album Go on a long cruise
What are you currently reading and what are your 4 favourite books? I am currently reading Arianna Huffington’s ‘Thrive’. My favorite author is Lesley Pearse whom I had the honour of meeting and interviewing. My other three favorites are ‘Girl On The Train’, Ben Elton’s ‘Past Mortem’ and ‘The Great Gatsby”.
Top 10 Bands/Musicians – SA and International Hard to choose only 10…. eek! 1. Madonna 2. Jess Glynne 3. Michael Jackson 4. Bruno Mars 5. Alicia Keys 6. Ed Sheeran 7. Karen Zoid 8. Ellie Goulding 9. Mi Casa 10. Mango Groove
Plans for the future – where do you see yourself 5 years from now? I have absolutely no idea to be honest. I just hope I am still able to do what I love or perhaps I will be living on the coast of Spain!
Care to share your most embarrassing moment with us? (LOL) I fell down the stairs in a crowded restaurant in front of a crowd of people who I had just interacted with after a promotion. I was dressed as a saloon girl, complete with feather boa and cowboy hat. My dress pretty much ended up over my head and I had to make a split second decision whether to feign death or jump up and shout “I’m ok” in a gymnast pose. I did the latter.
Showbiz in Full HD is brought to you by Helen Desbois and is all about entertainment! It promises to keep you up to date with all the latest theatre shows, music news, movie releases, what's hot on TV, giveaways, interviews with your favourite celebs and coverage of all the star studded events in Johannesburg. There's no business like Showbiz in Full HD!!
‘LIKE I NEED YOU’ – MUSIC VIDEO
EVERY HOME NEEDS A LOVING PET! THERE ARE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS WAITING TO BE ADOPTED – PLEASE REACH OUT! WE ALSO ENCOCURAGE YOU TO REACH INTO YOUR HEARTS FOR THOSE WHO ARE LESS FORTUNATE AND REALLY NEED OUR HELP.
Fundraising evening in Aid of Logan Muller Public ¡ Hosted by Micro Miracle Foundation
Details 4 July at 19:00–22:00
Parkers comedy & jive Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, 2196 Johannesburg, Gauteng R160.00 per person and it includes: LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE!! Come and enjoy the night with the best comedians. Free glass of champagne! Awesome gifts to win with the raffle tickets. Auctions. SMOKING LOUNGE INSIDE! Tequila sold at the bar for only R15.00! Menu is available. Email me and I'll forward it to you. All profits will go to our beneficiary Logan Muller with Microcephaly.
About Growing Champions Growing Champions, a non-profit company, runs a youth development and leadership programme. Sturdy foundations are laid in character development, leadership and personal responsibility for the pre-teens and teen youth. Sport and academic support including literacy and mathematics are fostered to create opportunities, skills and the volition to rise above the adversity of their environment - abuse, gang violence, criminal behaviour and addiction The programme grows leaders. Youth who understand choice and consequences. Youth who understand life is lead within community and use their talents to shine and serve. Youth who are willing to fight fear and release the Champion within. Youth who know that life is a journey, you will fall but what matters is to choose to get back up and do the next right thing. Growing Champions empowers children who come from low income groups and abusive, drug and gang infested homes to find the champion within and lead their lives. We use sport, character development and academic support to build our future leaders and keep them on a healthy path. Growing Champions is a leadership and football development program run by professional coaches with in sport and personal development.
With Danie 'Pitbull' van Heerden, Sam Toweel Moore, Delano Ayer and Peter Billings at Pitbull dojo.
Child of the Universe Positive Parenting
MEET THE TEAM Sam Toweel-Moore Founder, Character Development Coach, Addictions Counsellor Sam founded and developed the Growing Champions character and soccer development program. As the daughter of Hall of Fame, Olympian and World Title boxing fame, Willie Toweel, she knows what champions are made of, character.
“ I grew up in a household of Champions and I believe these young men's actions will bring out the inner Champion in them." Sam's credibility is made up of twenty years’ experience, advancing human development, through the fields of occupational therapy and psychology, both in South Africa and the U.K. She also acts as personal development coach, drug and alcohol abuse counselor, and is a contributor for Living and Loving magazine. You have to watch this 4 min video of The Scripts - Superheroes. An 11 year old boy braved the drug, gang and poverty stricken streets of Eldorado Park to capture young men of Growing Champions Youth Development Organisation who are determined to rise above their circumstances and be future leaders, superheroes.
Child of the Universe Positive Parenting
Grant Fernadez
Head of Soccer Development Grant is passionate about the youth and helping them use sport to direct their lives to healthy success. He has been helping them feed their talents as a professional football coach for 20 years. He is an assistant coach to FCAK. Grant will go to any length to grow leadership and sportsmanship through the beautiful game. Having grown up in a "sick" community, he knows what is required from him, and he is willing to go the distance.
Enver Wilson
Community Leader, Soccer Coach, Skills Development Enver is a community leader who plays a fatherly role to the Growing Champions. He believes in healthy choices and leading a life that will take young people to prosperous lives not lead them to jail or death. He knows the community inside and out and knows the importance of offering the youth alternative to becoming school drop outs and addicts. He works with the boys 6 times a week on the football field and supports and enforces the principles of Coach Sam’s Personal Development Program.
Gona Veran
Events Gona gets the job done. He knows how to turn any event into an unforgettable experience. He runs a very successful events company and is a DJ for community radion station Kofifi FM 97.2. His sense of humour, business sense, attention to detail and commitment mean all he involves himself in models great leadership and success.
James Starkey
Addictions Counsellor, and founder of Champions Recovery James is registered with the Council for Counselors of South Africa and has worked with both individuals and groups in the addiction recovery field. James himself had an alcohol and drug abuse problem and has his life solidly on track through various recovery programmes and has a huge passion for assisting others take back control of their own lives. James is very active in non profit twelve step programmes in his own and less affluent areas.
"If I always do what I always did then I will always get what I always got" Child of the Universe Positive Parenting
PEACEFUL HOUSING PROTEST IN ELDORADO PARK TURNS VIOLENT Police firing at unarmed school children 8 May 2017 Some children went peacefully to school today. But that wasn't meant to be for our Growing Champions families in, Eldorado Park. The peaceful housing protests turned into violence . Our dearest Bryron (11) was shot in the face by a rubber bullet, trapped between school and home. Access to transport to hospital hindered Communication down. Please pray for him and the many we cannot locate. Sam Toweel Moore with Peter Billings. 9 May at 23:02 ¡ Instagram Wow. Just been to the hospital tonight to see our little Champ. He is being so brave. His mother said she was hysterical yesterday when she received the call that her son was shot. She tried to get to him and the roads were blocked. She had to fight her way through the crowds, smoke, bullets and tear gas. When she reached him his first request was that she let's his grandparents know he is okay. The blue rubber bullet is still lodged in his eye. He is having his eye removed tomorrow and is in surgical ICU. His mother told me that Jesus is her strength. She isn't going to question her sons path she is going to walk with God to help her son rise again. Coach Peter and the GC Team raise Byron and his family in prayer as he undergoes surgery in a few hours.
Child of the Universe Positive Parenting
Our Vision and Mission “You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing, there will be no result” - MAHATMA GANDHI • • • • • • • • • • •
To guide and give young men the tools to rise above their impoverished, abusive environments through sport, character development and education. Create future sportsmen who have the ability to be accountable, to value and facilitate team work and make healthy choices as they progress through life. To give them a voice, so they can confidently speak up for themselves. To grow them into future leaders. To educate them on their rights under the South African Children's Act. To grow them into Thought Leaders To teach them how to give back. To provide counseling through group and individual sessions. To teach them how to lean on each other for support in tough times. To grow their sporting talents, so they can use this as a tool towards success. To work hand-in-hand with community leaders, and give them the tools to get involved and make a difference.
Helen Desbois provided a morning of fun and laughter as she dedicates her time to Growing Champions who communicate powerfully. Thank you #SpeechCoachHelen Call 0828033866 @growingchamps samtm@growingchampions.co.za http://growingchampions.co.za
Child of the Universe Positive Parenting
Taking education on a different path!
SPELL is a fun Educational Board Game that helps to develop skills in learning English. The game focuses on language, grammar, spelling and pronunciation. Suitable for ages 10+ 2 – 4 Players
Thero Modisagae Cell: 082 292 7655 Email: revoeducation2014@gmail.com
www.spellgame.co.za
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world" - Nelson Mandela
Raising Kids Positively Raising Kids Positively is all about improving your relationship with your children, growing their emotional intelligence, and a balance of kind and firm discipline. Psychologist Carol Surya makes this easy with her new website www.raisingkidspositively.com and three easy-to-use routes: a children’s self-esteem game, a conscious parenting book and workshops. InnerMagic Perfect for today’s busy families, is a game to consciously spend more quality time together, without devices or distractions. Expertly designed for selfreflection, self-expression and empowerment, InnerMagic benefits include teaching emotional intelligence while also strengthening all areas of development as you play! Everyone loves it because it gets all players moving, thinking and speaking. Magically encouraging children to talk more easily, develop critical thinking and practice making healthy choices. Ideal for parents, grandparents and educators to play with 5 to 13 year olds.
Order yours today and be reminded of your inner potential. All information available on
www.raisingkidspositively.com Email : info@raisingkidspositively.com Phone: (044) 533-5655 Mobile:: 071 671 6337
The Magic of Mindfulness Author Carmen Clews has found a magical way to bring mindfulness into your home and school! “The Magic Mat and its little secret…” is a delightful children’s book (with free DVD animation) offering fun, physical stretching and calming techniques to develop happy, relaxed, loving and healthy children. Used as a story at bedtime, or done actively with the DVD at home or as a group activity in the classroom - with regular use the benefits are magical. Children relax more, improving in balance and co-ordination, as well as memory, focus, patience and selfcontrol. Readers (age 5 to 12) hop on board their very own Magic Mat, transforming them into animals with various beautiful qualities. Finally, they relax, discovering their own higher selves, learning to feel love, compassion and gratitude. Read what buyers say about this magical tool kit, visit the Facebook page, watch the video clip – or simply order yours today.
The Planting Seeds for Life Education Series, also by Carmen Clews, teaches mindfulness and positive values to children aged 10 to 14 years. Enchanting African stories guide the reader through group discussions, visualizations, songs and other learning activities all aimed at improving well-being. The book’s 25 “seeds”, each written as a lesson plan, include the essential life skills of making wise choices; improving communication; managing emotions; problem solving; forgiveness; positive thinking; self-reliance and environmental conservation. If only we’d all learned these skills at school.
Contact details : Website : www.magicmatsecret.com Email : carmen@magicmatsecret.com Video : http://vimeo.com/100388148 Magic Mat Seeds for Life
Conscious Life Magazine MAY-JUNE 2017
Watercolour Mug
Directions here
Engraved Mousepad
DIY Wall Clock
Directions here
Directions here
Reasons I Love You
Drink Coasters
Directions here
Directions here
Directions here
DIY Mugs
Hot Pepper Oil
Laptop Desk
Directions here
Directions here
Directions here
Wood Knife Rack
Shaving Cream
Directions here
Planter Boxes
Directions here
Conscious Life Magazine MAY-JUNE 2017
DIY Shirt
Directions here
Presents
The Wonderful World of Disney on Ice Disney On Ice will return to South Africa in 2017 for the sixth time with The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice!. With tickets now available, families will be able to celebrate magic, spirit, and fun as an extraordinary lineup of Disney stories come to life in Johannesburg, Cape Town and, for the very first time, Durban! Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg . 30 June – 9 July Durban’s ICC Arena . 13 July – 16 July GrandWest, Cape Town . 19 July – 23 July
Presented by Feld Entertainment Inc and leading local promoter, Showtime Management The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice! opens on Friday, 30 June 2017 at the Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg and runs until Sunday, 09 July 2017. The production then moves to Durban’s ICC Arena from Thursday, 13 July to Sunday, 16 July and then to GrandWest, Cape Town from Wednesday, 19 July to Sunday, 23 July 2017. Tickets are on sale at Computicket.
Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy as they walk down memory lane and reawaken Disney moments that span generations. Dive deep into the East Australian Current with your favorite school of fish from Disney Pixar's Finding Dory when Dory, Nemo and Marlin set off on an adventure to discover the true meaning of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle with Anna and Elsa and the hilarious snowman Olaf from Disney’s Frozen as they learn how powerful a love between sisters can be. Reach for your dreams with Rapunzel, as her determination illuminates her inner strength. Experience the beauty of Walt Disney’s first animated feature film, as Snow White creates her own happily ever after with the help of seven, new friends. Buzz and Woody will have you jumping out of your seat in a foot-stomping hoedown; Simba, Timon and Pumbaa prowl the Pride Lands of Africa; Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie show how friendship is fearless; and your favorite Disney Princesses take to the ice to showcase the courage and determination that led them to achieve their dreams. For the past six years South African audiences have been thrilled by the excitement of the various Disney On Ice shows. “Each year, the show is a completely different production and, based on the audience appreciation, we believe Disney On Ice is fast becoming a regular annual event on the South African winter events calendar,” says Tony Feldman from Showtime Management. “We are pleased to extend the 2017 Disney On Ice SA tour to share the magic of Disney On Ice in Durban for the first time.” The production concludes with a captivating parade of classic and modern Disney characters, bringing the production to a final culmination of excitement and adventure. With an extraordinary lineup of hit songs, memorable scenes and timeless characters, The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice has a story for every generation.
The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice is a not-to-be-missed family winter school holiday outing. Book now at Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or your nearest Computicket service centre. Patrons are asked to please note that owing to safety regulations each person, irrespective of age (including babes in arms and children under two years) must have a purchased ticket. To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.za or visit us on Facebook and YouTube.
At GrowingPros we give your child the platform to develop themselves as individuals, learn essential skills in an environment that cultivates both physical development as well as psychological growth. Vital and Fundamental Skills That are Building Blocks for Childhood Development: • Core Strength & Development • Gross Motor Movement • Balance & Agility • Ambidexterity • Hand Eye Coordination • Special Awareness • Upper Body Strengthening • Posture • Scapular and Shoulder Strengthening • Team Work • Social Interaction • Self Confidence
Contact Alain Cell: 076-917 1424 56 Hurleyvale Road Edenvale, Gauteng, South Africa
info@growingpros.co.za www.growingpros.co.za
Potato Pancakes Potato Pancakes Baking potatoes, often called russet or Idaho potatoes, make the best potato pancakes. Potato pancakes are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can make a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serves 4 - 6.
Ingredients • • • • • • • • •
3 baking potatoes Peeled (about 4½ cups grated potatoes) 1 green onion thinly sliced 2 eggs beaten ¾tsp salt ¾cup whole wheat flour ¼tsp freshly ground black pepper 1tbsp vegetable oil Additional vegetable oil for cooking 1cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions Grate peeled potatoes directly into a bowl of water. Transfer the grated potatoes into a colander and press them to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. In a bowl, mix together the eggs, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil. Add the flour, whisking to combine. Add the potatoes and sliced green onion and mix well. Heat a skillet over high heat. Spread a small amount of oil evenly over the surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture to form each potato pancake. Flatten the pancakes with a spatula and cook until dark golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Serve immediately topped with applesauce and sour cream, if using.
Salsa Fresca
Ingredients • • • • • • • •
5 medium tomatoes cut into ½-inch pieces 1-2 jalapenos seeded and minced 2 garlic cloves minced ¼ medium red onion chopped 3tbsp fresh lime juice ½tsp salt ⅛tsp black pepper 1tbsp cilantro chopped
Instructions
In a bowl, gently stir together all the ingredients.
Berbere Spice Mix Berbere Spice Mix Berbere is a blend of spices used in Ethiopian cooking. If you don’t have whole spices, you can use ground ones. Ingredients
Instructions
• • • • • • •
Remove the seeds from the cardamom pod. Toast the cardamom, clove, allspice and fenugreek seeds in a dry skillet over medium-high heat, stirring until the spices become fragrant. Remove from the heat, let cool and grind in a mortar and pestle until fine. Stir in the ginger, nutmeg, and turmeric.
1whole cardamom pod 1whole clove 2whole allspice ⅛tsp whole fenugreek seeds ⅛tsp ground ginger ⅛tsp ground nutmeg ⅛tsp ground turmeric
Conscious Life Magazine
Dr. Shefali Tsabary is a international speaker, clinical psychologist and acclaimed author of the award-winning book "The Conscious Parent". She blends eastern mindfulness with western psychology integrating wisdom from both traditions. Her first book, "The Conscious Parent", has been endorsed by Oprah as one of the most profound books on parenting she has ever read. This book revolutionizes the parenting journey and allows us to transform our relationship with our children.
Blue Sky News is a kids friendly newsletter (A3 folded to A4 full colour) distributing (personally by each franchisee) on a monthly basis to over 300 schools into school bags, in the Gauteng area. We currently have franchises covering Midrand/Centurion/Fourways/Houghton/Sandton 40000 copies collectively. If you interested in becoming part of our team OR if parents/kids/families are your target market & you would be interested in advertising with us OR would like to distribute or subscribe to our newsletters then check out our website www.blueskynews.co.za and/or Facebook page Contact susette@blueskynews.co.za for more info, we would love to hear from you!
with much appreciation to our advertisers, contributors, endorsers and our readers namaste