Standard style 22 march

The Standard

Style MARCH 22 TO 28 2015

I SSUE 46

Star Profile

Beaulah Muchira-Nhongo

Inside Nqobizitha Mlilo

2 THE STANDARD STYLE / CONTENTS The Standard

Style

March 22 to 28 2014

3 Woman Profile Amanda Badze

5 Motivation

Contents

Tafadzwa

7 Man Profile

P08

Fungai Nengare

Home & Garden 9 Home of the Week Enter our competition

10 Trends

Dairibord

12 Trends

Wall Cladding

Food & Drink 14 Restaurant Guide Mojo

P14

To advertise in The Standand Style magazine please phone Khalisto Manyanye , kmanyanye@alphamedia.co.zw, Michael Munaki, mmunaki@alphamedia.co.zw and Nyasha Borerwe, nborerwe@alphamedia.co.zw

Family

26 Breaking New Ground

19 Family of the Week

28 Bookworm

21 Education

NIAA Eisteddfed

29 Arts

Celeb news

P09

P19

Lebbie

Arts Chipo Nenzou

P07

15 Wine

Mutendi family

Cover to Cover winners

24 Family Getaway Getaways & Outings

THE STANDARD STYLE / WOMAN / PROFILE 3

March 22 to 28 2015

Prudence Muganiwah

W

Star Profile

Beaulah Muchira-Nhongo

“

There is nothing you cannot do when you arm yourself with a solid education and an unshakable self-belief….

“

hen one is passionate about development of their own surroundings and the communities beyond them, I call that utmost humanity. But when that person is concerned about such, yet they still manage to run other businesses and projects as well as their own family, then that is a remarkable story to tell.

Born in Harare in 1984 to Ritah and Christopher Muchira, Beaulah Muchira-Nhongo is the first of three girls who was raised in the high density surburb of Highfields in Harare, attending Tsungayi Primary where her mother was a school teacher, and Nyameni Primary in Marondera. A self-confessed proud Monte Cassino High School alumni, Beaulah subsequently graduated from the University of Zimbabwe with a Bsc Honours Degree in Psychology.

The focused young woman consequently went on to attain a Masters in Development Studies from the University of the Free State in South Africa, a feat she says was not easy to achieve as she studied part time while working full time in a demanding job. “However, I had lots of support from my family, most notably my husband.” Beaulah not only graduated cum laude (with distinction), but was also awarded the Dean’s medal for the top Masters Student for that year.

She advises, “When you attain an education, no one can ever take that away from you. And when I look back at my life thus far, I celebrate who I am now, not because of where I am going but because of how far I have come. I sit in a boardroom and speak to accomplished people, royalty, heads of state and government leaders; and heads of multilateral institutions such as the African Union and various United Nations Agencies, I look back at how a scrawny young Haifiridzi Township girl has so much to be proud of and to be thankful for.”

But the journey has only just begun for the high achiever, who says her next focus is on attaining a PhD. “Dr Muchira-Nhongo has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it!” she adds with a chuckle.

For over a decade, Beaulah has worked in the field of international development in various countries including her own Zimbabwe, Swaziland and currently South Africa where she is based. She explains, “International development advocates for issues such as equitable access to health care and education especially for vulnerable communities; poverty reduction; gender equality and a respect for human rights. I am passionate and committed to the work that I do because it brings about tangible change in people’s lives.”

Starting out her career in small NGOs, her focus was on access to information on HIV & AIDS, and sexual and reproductive rights for women.

Beaulah volunteered for Skillshare International in Swaziland working on assisting women with breast cancer, then moved to South Africa where she volunteered for the British Council before joining the British

High Commission in Pretoria as a Political Officer.

Now a Programme Manager for the UK Department for International Development’s (DFID) Southern Africa Regional Office in Pretoria, she explained how this role gives her the opportunity to implement and manage programmes that have a regional focus in the SADC region.

“My career has also enabled me to see the world and embrace diversity I’ve travelled in the SADC region, and abroad to major cities such as London, Glasgow and Edinburgh in the UK; Boston, Phoenix, Minnesota and New Orleans in the United States; and Amsterdam in the Netherlands.”

The mother of two explains how she has faced challenges working as an expatriate in a system where being a foreigner hinders her progress in prospective jobs, access to financing from banks and other opportunities. “Sometimes you are told they will not recruit you because recruiting a foreigner is an ‘administrative burden’.

A social liberal at heart and an optimistic character despite such obstacles, Beaulah feels that economic development should not leave anyone behind. “In so many world economies, the rich are getting richer while the poor get poorer. As human beings we have an obligation to do what we can to help the needy, so to do this as a career is to me the ultimate privilege.”

A feminist who believes in equality, Beaulah says, “I find that most people find that word intimidating but the way I see it, Gloria Steinem summed it up so well when she said “A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”

Married for 6 years to Garikai Nhongo, the couple is blessed with two daughters, Ruvarashe Hannah and Chiedza Olivia – after whom she has named her thriving cakemaking business, Hannah and Olive Cakes and Treats. “I firmly believe that we are the sum of our memories – it is the priceless moments with our loved ones that define who we are and give value to our human experience.”

But how does such a driven career woman also manage to run a successful cake baking business and yet also find time to manage her household? Beaulah says it’s no easy task. “Baking and cake decorating is a true art and it takes a lot more time and effort than Buddy from Cake Boss makes it out to be! The best way to deal without going clinically insane is to plan and manage my time wisely – I do not take my DFID work home, and I try to do all my Hannah & Olive work after 8pm when my daughters go to bed. When I find myself still hunched over my cake board at midnight, what keeps me going is that I draw fulfillment from what I do.” Advising fellow entrepreneurs, she adds, “If you are going to be an entrepreneur on the side, find something you like doing.

It makes it easier when the going gets tough!”

An avid bookworm who loves the “not the ‘serious, self-help or get rich this way’ kind of books but good ol’ fiction!” Beaulah owns over 500 books and is currently collect-

ing the complete works of Agatha Christie, Charles Dickens and Stephen King.

Apart from her regular job and business Beaulah supports the Siyaphila Youth Literacy programme, a community based organisation that helps young girls and boys in Mamelodi, Pretoria with school work, mentorship and life skills activities. She explains, “This is through the annual Ladies Spring Affair event founded and run by the inimitable Tabitha Mautsa which brings women in Pretoria together.”

She hopes to do more with this initiative as it brings together two issues close to her heart: empowering young girls and assisting them to get a good education.

Drawing inspiration from her mother, a primary school teacher who finally achieved her dream of attaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology a few years ago, Beaulah says she taught her the value of education. “I am simply the proudest daughter in the world! My mum also taught me to bake – a skill she was taught by her own mother; and which I hope to pass down to my girls as they grow up.”

Beaulah derives life lessons from other powerful women, “Two pieces of poetry by Maya Angelou resonate so strongly with me and I encourage all women to read “Still I rise” and “A Woman Should Have.”

Commenting on the impact of social media, she advises young kids, “Be wise about what you post on your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts - those dodgy photos that you never remembered to take down. So often we forget that one day we will grow up and become ‘serious’ members of society. When that day comes, remember that your CV is not just the 2 paged document you send to HR!” Not surprisingly, the ever determined Beaulah has quite a few words for fellow young people still trying to find their feet, “There is nothing you cannot do when you arm yourself with a solid education and an unshakable self-belief.

That’s a very lethal combination because when other people see you believing in yourself, in a way it gives them permission to do the same!”

4 THE STANDARD STYLE / WOMAN / FASHION

March 22 to 28 2015

Style sessions!

The whats hot list

Whats hot on the local fashion scene?

Dear Fashion Lover!!

What inspires your personal style? This week, we are so excited to put notable fashion boutique WISTERIA LANE on the Fashion Map! Owned by Fashionista Joyce Hondora, the store hosts a range of beautiful, wearable and affordable clothes for the Zim fashion lady! Ranging from $15 - $220 you will find a great array of casual sun dresses to sophisticated cocktail dresses.

Jojo, as she is lovingly known explained to us that the Wisteria Lane name is “derived from the popular show Desperate Housewives: we aim to reach out to every woman with our value for money, high quality designs all designed to give you the confidence that comes with that exceptional unique look. We provide exclusive pieces for our individual client needs and we also carry

a mixture of inspired looks and trends from different worlds providing our clients with the season must have pieces.” All dresses modeled by Fai.

Location: 4 David Morgan Crescent, Avondale, Harare +263 783 362 228 / + 263 772 542 298 Fb.com/Wisteria Lane ZW Instagram: WisteriaLaneZW Twitter: @WisteriaLaneZW

Shoot for the moon, and even if you miss, you will still land amongst the stars! #stylesessions #fashionscopes #demoyo Design@paidemoyochideya.com

Yolanda Lindsay Mabuto

URINE THERAPY

I

remember sitting at the diagnostic radiology centre and being asked to drink four glasses of water. When I attempted to gulp the sixth cup I was told that my body only needed three to four cups to kick start my urinary system.

Finally after another forty five minutes I was ready for the scan and soon after the radiologist said, “You may go relieve yourself of excess toxic waste.”

As a student familiar with human physiology I already was mentally editing his comment.

The notion that urine is a toxic waste is common and it is inaccurate- urine is simply a substance that the body does not need at the time. The fact that *urine therapy has been around for thousands of years without records of side effects suggests that urine is far from toxic-besides it’s 95%water, 2.5% urea,

2.5% minerals, salts, hormones and enzymes, the minute traces of toxin that it contains are not abundant enough to be harmful to the body. In fact researchers detected over thirty critical nutrients in urine and concluded that drinking your own urine has a cleansing effect based on the principle that urine becomes more purified the more it is recycled- so the cleaner the blood is the cleaner the

urine is and vice versa. Urine is said to have anti-bacterial, antifungal and anti-viral properties and suggested to be helpful in varying illnesses such as simple colds, tuberculosis, heart disease and major or minor skin problems. *Urine therapy – the use of your own urine internally or externally as a way to aid or sustain your health.

THE STANDARD STYLE / INSPIRATION 5

March 22 to 28 2015

Positioning yourself to

Buy the Future (4) Cynthia Hakutangwi

Should you start playing catch up?

What went wrong?

“Two people can be born under very similar circumstances go through similar experiences and yet arrive at

Your conversation after a few nostalgic jokes and back slapping, lapses into an awkward silence. Your beginning was similar but your present has become very different. Sometimes it would not

sion. Sometimes the inner drive to rise up again and refocus is drained and there is no one available to jump start and switch the light back on for an entity to get back on the road. This

different destinies. People sit in the same classroom and listen to the same teacher, use the same textbooks, do the same assignments, sometimes even get the same grades, but then as they grow into their future roles, they do not achieve the same levels of success in their individual pursuits. The same applies to corporate bodies, organisations and nations. Most of us have had the bitter-sweet reunion with an old neighbourhood or school acquaintance after about ten, fifteen or thirty years of separation and realized that although the two of you have a lot to talk about in the past, you have very little in common to share with your present lives. Sometimes you become aware rather painfully, that whilst you might have made a lot of meaningful progress with your life, your friend is still basically settled at the same place he was when you last parted company.

be your friend who is lagging behind but you become aware of your own personal underdevelopment. You realise that whilst your friend has made some impressive hop-step-jump, you are still warming up on the fringes of the tracks of life.”

The above passage is an introductory narration of A Tale of Two Paradigms in the first chapter of the book Buy the Future by Dr Mensa Otabil which has been an inspiration the current series of articles. Reading this short narrative earlier this year made me realise just how desperate and hopeless one can feel when they realise how far they still need to go to redeem lost vision, opportunities and time. Sometimes life throws major curve balls at us that can fling us off track for years. There are many instances where individuals, families and organisations have failed to “get back on track” in pursuit of their vi-

“fizzled engine syndrome” is one of the reasons why some of the most potentially explosive individuals and organisations have stayed stagnant in park mode. The previous instalment in this series on Positioning Yourself to Buy the Future was a provocation on the clarity of vision for our individual lives and corporate entities. Sometimes we encounter circumstances that can dent our critical nerves and cause us to develop blurred vision. In the absence of a wholesome composition it then becomes very difficult for us to move forward meaningfully and tactfully.

How do you redeem lost time?

Lagging behind happens to the best time planners and is a way of life for the worst ones. However there are no secret formulas that will magically make things easier since time

Give up complaining

Takudzwa Ishmael Moyo Previous we looked at why one needs to stop comparing themselves. Comparing is the inward thought which when transformed into action in most cases expressed in the form of

complaining. One limit to positive thinking is ever complaining.

Complaining gives up the power to solve things, it gives someone responsibility over your life. If a problem can be solved why complain about it then again if it cannot be solved why then do you have to

complain about it. All we need is to change the things we want to see differently and sometimes if we can’t, then change our attitude towards them.

Almost everything is changeable. The world does not owe you anything, no one does. If you are not comfortable about something take a step towards changing it. No one will pose and listen to you and try to help; in the rare event that they do – it is certainly for their benefit not yours.

When complaining, the majority of people do so to the wrong people; the ones without solutions to your problems. One goes to their friend to complain about their parent then to their parent to complain about their friend. What

we need is to have the courage to face the friend or the parent and give them their side of the story instead of complicating things for no reason.

The major drawback in complaining is it makes you lose sight of what you have in search of what you don’t have. Instead of making use of the available resources you then end up chasing other things thinking your life will be much better then. Instead use what you have to make a difference. As you complain about not having nice shoes think of someone out there without legs and before you complain about your job think of the millions sending CVs everyday without any response.

No one ever solved a problem

is something we cannot get back once it is gone. When we fall behind our to-do list or goals and it seems like we’ll never catch up it is easy to feel overwhelmed and even give up in despair. It can be domestic chores that we had set out to execute before getting sidetracked or business development plans that can come in collision with a family illness, sometimes it is even our own self-care that gets regularly pushed to the bottom of because something else more important comes up. This should not cause us to give up because there is always an opportunity for us to catch up and make the best of where we find ourselves.

The first step requires us to take time to reflect on how we have lost the past time. When you have lost precious moments and years you ought to not only mourn and lament over your lost time but to determine to apply yourself more diligently to improve the remaining part. This means that you have to improve every talent, advantage, and opportunity, to your utmost, while time lasts. This requires the discipline to take reasonable, consistent strides towards your goals every day. Designing a robust action plan with timelines will also help you see what gets done when. You can consider using a project timeand-money calculator to see which tasks are eating up your time but not giving you any returns. Writing things down, whether at home or in your business to see which tasks are most beneficial will give you clarity and peace of mind.

Cynthia is a Communications and Personal Development Consultant, a Life Coach, Author, and Strategist. She is the Managing Consultant of Wholeness Incorporated. Her published book titles include “The Whole You – Vital Keys for Balanced Living” and “Intelligent Conversations: A mindset shift towards a developed Africa.” E-mail: cynthia@ wholenessincorporated.com. Facebook: Wholeness Incorporated. Website: www. wholenessincorporated.com

by complaining about it. You need to be the change you want to see in the world. Find solutions to problems; as you complain about load shedding someone out there is making money selling firewood and gas stove as well as gas.

You can complain that roses have thorns or celebrate that thorns have roses hence instead of looking for something bad try and focus on the good that can come out of it.

Ishmael Dawctar is an inspirational writer and speaker. For more inspirational tips and advice or to get free daily inspirational messages daily you can contact him via whatsapp on +263 735 412 851 or email dawcmael@gmail.com

6 THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN / PROFILE

March 22 to 28 2015

Star Profile

Pics by henry Hakulandaba

Prudence Muganiwah

Nqobizitha Mlilo

“

An idea will remain an idea unless you take it seriously….

“

Arthur C. Clarke once said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” As technology continues to advance and new innovations replace conventional old models, I tend to find a very thin line between it and magic, so to say.

And it is people like Nqobizitha Mlilo, also known as Enqore, that constantly prove Arthur’s quote right. The Bulawayo born digital media artist and creative entrepreneur who attended Milton High School and moved to Harare in 2005 brings digital medial to new, exciting levels. Beginning as a freelance video director and animator, Nqo also worked as an instructor at a college as well as in private studios and advertising agencies. But he had a bigger dream, and that he continued to pursue.

After some time in Rwanda where he consulted, 2012 saw him starting Nafuna, an award winning digital media and content creation studio in Harare, a project which had been on his mind for years - and where he works now - running Nafuna TV with his wife, Aura. Enqore, as he is otherwise known, is a talented creative who showcases his expertise as a digital artist, filmmaker, hip hop poet as well is one of the most sought after producers.

Enqore explains how his motivation in developing Nafuna was to create a studio which would also create content as opposed to simply producing video and animation for the advertising industry. To date, Nafuna TV has also been awarded best animation company by the Ministry of ICT. “I started animating when I was 16. I was into comic books and drawing as a kid and I guess the passion stuck!” Enqore has experience in both 2D and 3D animation as well as Visual Effects. “Being an animator is great. It’s a lot of work but nothing beats the feeling of bringing an idea to life from nothing. It’s great!” says the artist, who is also big on education as he yearns for a solid base of animators and digital media practitioners. “Without that base, I

feel we won’t have the capacity to tell our story.”

His recent nomination by tech giant Google as one of Africa’s top 10 Innovators definitely put his, and more so, Zimbabwe’s name on the map. The award was based on Google’s project, Africa Connected, which was focused on telling unique African Stories. The project also involved innovation through the Internet, and about 2 500 stories participated. Enqore’s story was one of the chosen remaining 10 finalist stories, and for that he received a prize of $10 000 as well as a mentor from Google to help him further develop his brainchild, Nafuna TV. “I have a passion for telling stories to an audience though animation and digital video. I have always been fascinated by how video can communicate a lot of information in a really short period of time,” says the frank young father of one who strongly believes in the principles of honesty and efficiency.

Explaining his work in countries such as Rwanda and the USA, the largely self-taught Enqore says this includes creating video training material for Pixelcorps.com, lecturing on 3D animation as well as running with various film making initiatives.

Enqore believes there is a lot of potential in the tech scene in Zimbabwe, but wishes there was more support for start-ups and trainings, and that people took their skills and talents more seriously and stopped with all the mediocrity and half-baked products. “An idea will remain an idea unless you take it seriously.”

Drawing his inspiration from fellow creatives in the industry, Enqore hopes to grow his brand and begin new, more innovative ventures such as a resource vocational training centre he and his team are planning on. The young man whose father initially wanted him to be an accountant, says of his father, “Had I listened to him, I would be balancing spreadsheets right now!

Nqobizitha “Enqore” Mlilo advises his fellow young people on pursuing their dreams, “It’s all about having a solid plan and a truthful assessment of one’s strengths and weaknesses. You must always improve yourself by reading and researching stuff in your field.

Knowing that allows you to create a plan for yourself that you can achieve using your strengths. Always learn.”

THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN 7

“Bespoke” is cool….

Craig Zoowie

T

he distinguishing points of bespoke tailoring are the buyer’s total control over the fabric used, the features and fit, and the way the garment should be made. More generally, “bespoke/ tailor-made or customised” describes a high degree of “customisation”, and involvement of the end-user, in the production of the goods.

Bespoke clothing is traditionally cut from a pattern drafted from scratch for the customer, and thus differs from ready-to-wear, which is factory made in finished condition and standardised sizes, and from made to measure, produced to order from an adjusted block pattern. Bespoke clothing is now more expensive and is generally accompanied by a high quality of construction.

Throughout the ages, we’ve seen bespoke tailoring amongst the rich and famous but nowadays there is more bespoke tailoring from backyards to the runways. The advantage of bespoke is the client selects their choice of fabric, the style as well as the fitting of the garment, the specification all lays with the client, whereas mass produced garments do not give the client any involvement at all. The tailor makes sure all the detail that the client wants comes together as wanted on the garment. We see celebrities have their own tailors that come to them to make specific garments for them be it for stage or special appearances, English-men have always understood this concept better than most. Hence we have Savile Row as the kings in Bespoke Tailoring with gentlemen like Ozwald Boateng making headlines by designing and adorning the best but still making sure other men enjoy this aspect of fine-tailoring without breaking the bank.

In 2004, Coutts approached Boateng to design a new Super-Premium credit card. The Coutts ‘World Credit Card’ appears in Boateng’s trademark imperial purple, designed to communicate a new modernity and supreme elegance. Boateng also designed new amenity kits for Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class.

Critically claimed to be the most stylish first class kits available to travellers on any airline, the design increased pick rate fivefold. Ozwald makes bespoke clothing for the likes of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs including renowned government officials as well as International sportsmen.

“Bespoke” is an English word that means a clothing item made to a buyer’s specification (personalised or tailored) implying measurement and fitting.

As we delve further into this “bespoke” concept, we see more customised Lifestyles from breath-taking real estate, baroque vehicles, ornate furniture, uber translucent jewellery, private aircrafts and luxurious yachts. With more advanced technology now there is very little that cannot be done to customise and personalise what you own. A bespoke lifestyle gives you the opportunity to be a designer of your life in terms of anything you need, it is ‘tailoring’ your life to the best of how you want to live it with what is around you, be it a fountain pen embossed with your initials, car interior with chinchilla to Swarovski crystals, hand-painted swimming pools, customised ceilings, chandeliers you name it (the world’s your oyster). One cannot detach feelings of Style, Class, Luxury & Exclusivity to anything bespoke, this goes on to attract a timeless element to a bespoke lifestyle.

Beyoncé Knowles gave her husband Shawn Carter a ‘bespoke jet’, let alone the customised wedding ring he got her. Beyoncé went on to get a similar imitation made that she wears every day without the fear of losing the real one coz of the price-tag attached to the real one. Bespoke always brings with it an air of “I’ve arrived”- a sense of having achieved one’s personal needs and wants on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, everybody dreams of this life yet some are already living it…………….A trend that is here to stay!!

Keeping your Facebook account secure Today most of our lives are spent on the Internet and social media which used to be just a source of entertainment has suddenly become a central part of our lives. The increasing prevalence of social media has made it a must to keep our accounts secure. So this week’s Tech Tips focuses on how to keep your Facebook account secure to avoid exposure to scammers and potential identity theft.

• Use a strong password.

When setting your Facebook password, or any password for that matter, use combinations of at least 6 letters, numbers and punctuation marks and try not to repeat the same password for multiple accounts! If you are worried about forgetting your passwords, you can store them securely in online password safes such as LastPass, KeePass or 1Password.

• Avoid suspicious links.

Never click suspicious links or download files with a .exe file extension, even if they come from a friend or a company you know. If you see something suspicious on Facebook, report it, this will not only protect you, but your friends as well.

• Beware of fake Pages, apps and games.

Be suspicious of Pages promoting offers that are too good to be true. If in doubt, check to see if a Page is verified. Also be mindful when you install new apps or games. Sometimes scammers use bad apps and games to gain access to your Facebook account.

• Don't accept friend requests from strangers.

The “don’t talk to strangers” rule you learnt from your Mom as a kid also applies to Facebook!

Scammers will create fake accounts just to befriend people and if you accept their request you are allowing them to spam your Timeline, tag you in posts and send you malicious messages.

• Keep your login info secret.

If you are ever asked to re-enter your password on Facebook check to make sure the address of the page still has facebook.com/ in the URL (web address field in your browser). Also never tell anyone your Facebook login information, no matter how close you are.

• Update your browser.

Lastly, you have to keep your browser up to date.

Facebook supports Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Google Chrome and Internet Explorer. The newest versions of all these browsers have built-in security protections and can warn you if you're about to go to a suspected phishing site.

Happy secure Facebooking!

DDH&M12666

March 22 to 28 2015

8 THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN

Chery J3

Chery with a Mandarin Flair

March 22 to 28 2015

It’s a runaround with low fuel and maintenance costs with a claimed 8.3litres for every 100km

Fact Jeke

Tiggo

T

The Tiggo is powered by a powerful 1.6-litre DVVT petrol engine which drives like a charm handles terrains well

he Chery Brand first hit our streets three years ago and has fast been taking over the city streets. With our economy literally going south, it’s not about choice but about practicality when making purchases. In this issue we take a drive in three vehicles all from Chery.

The Chery range is competitive with all its models in the running with great manufacturers products lie GM, Toyota, Hyundai and Kia. The likes of Chevrolet when you look at the baby in the range, the QQ which is in the same playgroup with the Spark. The Chery QQ is so close to the Matiz /Spark that I am sure several body panels can be interchangeable. Its available in 0.8l , 5 Speed MT. Off course it’s not a sports car so you will not accelerate 0 – 100 km in record time but with a top speed of 130km/h, you will reach Bulawayo in under 5 hours with five adults seated comfortably with five doors and a generous boot with a fuel tank sitting at 35litres.. What’s more exciting is the fact that the base model starts at US$12 225.00 making it the most affordable first car to hit our market.

The Chery J3 is another one which is a good seller. It’s slightly bigger than the QQ and is available in a hatch back. Prices under $20 000.00 this will be good for middle managers and sales people. It’s a runaround with low fuel and maintenance costs with a claimed 8.3litres for every 100km and emission levels of 194gm/km. The peak power output of the J3 is 93kW at 6 150r/min with torque at 160N.m at 3 900r/min. power from the willing engine goes to the front wheels through a five speed manual gearbox.

Lastly the one head turner which will definitely give the Toyota Rav4 a good run because it is similar dimension wise, capacity and built is the Tiggo. Despite the stylistic and dimensional differences (which are slight), the main concept is the same.

The Tiggo is powered by a powerful 1.6-litre DVVT petrol engine which drives like a charm, handles terrains well and has one model with

leather interior, it comes with a 5 Speed MT at half the price of a Toyota Rav4.

Air conditioning, power windows, power steering, electrically-operated exterior mirrors, 60/40 split rear seat backrest for load versatility, an audio system with CD player and MP3/USB jack are all standard fitment as is central locking with remote keyless entry.

Safety is very high on the list of Chery’s priorities with the new Tiggo and standard equipment includes an electronic stability control programme (ESP), dual airbags and ABS with electronic brake distribution (EBD) as well as ISOFIX fittings for child seats. The top speed is 160km/hr – 170km/hr and its ideal for the business executive who is on a budget. Its perfectly suited to city traffic and the tight confines of urban living, thanks to its good handling and a consumption of 12Km to a ltr. It also will be ideal for bundu bashing once in a while.

Chery is pronounced ‘che-ree’ and, roughly translated from Chinese to English, means ‘unique’. Chery’s cars may not have always been uniquely styled, but its phenomenal rate of growth is certainly special in the automotive world.

With just 10 years experience in making and selling cars, Chery is the one of the youngest vehicle manufacturers in China. So it is an amazing feat that it has already become the largest self-owned carmaker in the country -- and the biggest exporter of Chinesebranded vehicles.

It has been the biggest seller among the Chinese brands for nine years in a row. Chery is also developing a hybrid system as well as a pure electric car.

That definitely will not work for Zimbabwe with our electricity challenges…

Contact Theo Diaskouris and the sales team at Quest Motor Corp for all your Chery questions and schedule test drives.

Till next week, be safe.

Additional Source: Quickpic, Chery Email me on missjeke@gmail.com

Chery QQ You will reach Bulawayo in under 5 hours with five adults seated comfortably

THE STANDARD STYLE

HOME & GARDEN

COMPETITION

Send us a picture of your Home and enter “ZIMBABWE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL HOME” competition and stand a chance to win a self catering holiday for two couples in the picturesque Eastern Highlands

style@standard.co.zw

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This week’s code: STDSTYHM46

10 THE STANDARD STYLE / WORLD WATER DAY SUPPLEMENT

March 22 to 28 2015

Dairibord aqualite still natural mineral water Dairibord Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, a subsidiary of Dairibord Holdings, recently re-launched their well-known

mineral water brand, Aqualite, in crisp and attractive packaging, under the brand promise, “Pure Aqualite Class”.

This is part of the company’s strategy to increase the contribution of its non-milk value adding product lines in line with

the “More Than Just Milk” strategic thrust.

Dairibord’s Aqualite is a refreshing mineral water that is ideal for the health conscious consumer.

The re-branding of an old favourite is in line with our commitment to providing our valued consumers with nutritious food and beverages for the sustenance of good health.

Dairibord Aqualite Still Natural Mineral Water is distinguishable from ordinary drinking water mainly because of its characteristic content of certain mineral salts and their relative proportions, and the presence of trace elements or of other constituents. Aqualite is drawn from an underground source at Dairibord Harare, and is purified by filtration, UV, ozonation and reverse osmosis.

Aqualite has a 12 month shelf life from the date of manufacture, and should be stored in a cool dry place at ambient temperatures. Aqualite must not be stored under direct sunlight. It is best served chilled although it should not be frozen. Due to the high mineral content, precipitation of minerals occurs at freezing temperatures leading to presence of particles in the water when thawed.

The product comes in four convenient pack sizes; 350ml, 500ml, 1.5L and 5L. These sizes suit different usage occasion; on-the-go and family use.

THE BENEFITS OF DRINKING MINERAL WATER •

Weight loss - Any type of water including min eral water contains no calories and is fat free.

When you opt for mineral water you will be able to stay at your target calorie intake while staying hydrated and feeling healthy.

• Calcium found in mineral water may be cru cial to maintaining a normal bone density and therefore preventing the development of bone related illnesses such as osteoporosis.

• The magnesium found in mineral water plays an important role in maintaining a normal blood pressure level. One study found that pa tients with hypertension who consumed one li tre of bottled mineral water showed a decrease in blood pressure over time.

• Studies have also shown that drinking mineral water can significantly reduce a person’s risk of suffering from uric acid kidney stones.

• Mineral water is a great source of sulphates which help promote digestion • Electrolyte balance - Electrolytes are salts (bicarbonate, chloride, potassium and sodium) which prevent dehydration by helping the cells of the body absorb water. Because mineral wa ter can be a great source of electrolytes, those who experience an electrolyte imbalance are frequently asked to consume mineral water in order to replenish their electrolyte loss.

• Mineral water can help break down waste ma terials in the body as well as cleanse it of toxins.

• Mineral water can help improve your skin be cause of its high quantities of silica which can strengthen the spongy cells in the skin, as well as slow down wrinkle formation

March 22 to 28 2015

THE STANDARD STYLE / WORLD WATER DAY SUPPLEMENT 11

The Energy-Water Challenge Significant amounts of water are needed in almost all energy generation processes, from generating hydropower, to cooling and other purposes in thermal power plants, to extracting and processing fuels. Conversely, the water sector needs energy to extract, treat and transport water. Both energy and water are used in the production of crops, including those used to generate energy through biofuels. Population growth and rapidly-expanding economies place additional demands on water and energy, while several regions around the world are already experiencing significant water and energy shortages.

Today, more than 780 million people lack access to potable water, and over 1.3 billion people lack access to electricity. At the same time, estimates show that by 2035, global energy consumption will increase by 35%, while water consumption by the energy sector will increase by 85%.

Climate change will further challenge water and energy management by causing more water variability and intensified weather events, such as severe floods and droughts.

These interdependencies complicate possible solutions and make a compelling case to expeditiously improve integrated water and energy planning in order to avoid unwanted future scenarios.

Will water constrain our energy future?

While a global water crisis could take place in the future, the energy challenge is present. Water constraints have already adversely impacted the energy sector in many parts of the world.

In the U.S., several power plants have been affected by low water flows or high water temperatures. In India, a thermal power plant recently had to shut down due to a severe water shortage. France has been forced to reduce or halt energy production in nuclear power plants due to high water temperatures threatening cooling processes during heatwaves. Recurring and prolonged droughts are threatening hydropower capacity in many countries, such as Sri Lanka, China and Brazil.

Despite these concerns, current energy planning and production is often made without taking into account existing and future water constraints. Planners and decision-makers in both sectors often remain ill-informed about the drivers of these challenges, how to address them, and the merits of different technical, political, management, and governance options. The ab-

sence of integrated planning between these two sectors is socioeconomically unsustainable.

http://www.worldbank.org/en/ topic/sustainabledevelopment/brief/ water-energy-nexus

12 THE STANDARD STYLE / HOME & GARDEN / TRENDS

March 22 to 28 2015

Wall Cladding Trends Noma Ndlovu

Wall Cladding Wall cladding is a type of decorative covering that makes the wall look like it has been built of a certain type of material. This is most common in external walls and on fireplaces. Cladding can be an artistic element in interior decorating. In most cases it is non-structural and doesn’t impact the stability or integrity of a building’s architectural core. “The idea is to add interest and vibrancy without the expense of actually re-building a wall. As such, the various materials and textures are usually affixed to the top of an existing structure.” Home improvement pages Australia The main function of cladding internally is to be decorative as it helps create a feature wall or accent a room. Externally it can be both decorative and functional in that it can help protect or insulate against weather elements. Various types of materials can be used depending on the type of area that is to be treated with cladding. Some of these are wood, steal, stone and veneers.

Stone Cladding Stone cladding is considered fresh and more natural. It can be used indoors in bathrooms, living rooms, staircases, kitchens and any other room. It is long lasting and quite pricey. Brick Cladding is also an option but has similar expenses involved as in stone cladding. A specialist installer should be able to bring out the beauty of both stone and brick to ensure that it does not look like any ordinary wall. Brick however looks a lot more industrial than stone. 0, 2015

A feature wall using stone or brick cladding can take your walls from ordinary to extraordinary. A distinctive expression of style.

Image www.planbasadre.com

Wood/ Timber Cladding Using wood or timber for cladding is a classic way to get a rich rustic look for your home though not common here. Wood has a traditional look which contrasts or blends well with modern fittings. It is a lot stronger than aluminum and vinyl and is almost used exclusively for aesthetic reasons. It is imperative that you use treated wood that is resistant to termites and can withstand harsh weather elements. The cladding is commonly from cedar or redwood. Installations and maintenance costs can be quite high. Consult your planner and installer on available wood options.

Avoid using pine as it will always end up looking cheap.

Zinc Cladding Zinc is an extremely durable and low maintenance material with exceptional longevity. It is strong and it is made to appear like it is made of wood. The installation is pretty affordable and it needs almost no maintenance action. It can be available in a variety of colours. In addition to Zinc, you can use Aluminum or steel, however aluminum is not as strong, flexible or durable as Zinc but it does give off a beautiful industrial look. You can use it for both roofs and walls, interior and exterior.

An exterior of a home clad in wood. Properly treated and installed wood is a great way to finish your home exterior. Image – luxe interior design

If you are an edgy modern or contemporary builder or home owner consider some of these finishing options for your home or project. There are many cladding options available to explore. I have chosen these as my go to options if I was considering a cladding concept. Each material has its own value and benefits.

It depends on your needs and personal preferences.

Financial consideration, style and the environment should be key elements in helping you make your decision on which material to use.

Live and love your home.

Credits: www.planbasadre.com www.luxeinteriors.com www.homeimprovementpages.com.au www.smartvillas.md www.pinterest.com Noma Ndlovu is an Interior Designer & Property Stylist.

Email: unaminkosi@yahoo.co.uk. www.facebook.com/ unamihomestyle

Zinc Wall cladding gives an edgy finish which blends in with other materials such as glass and wood. Image - Pinterest

Wall cladding defines style in your space. Image. smartvillas.md

THE STANDARD STYLE

FOOD & DRINK 1

In this issue of Food & Drink

(1) Eating out by Dusty Miller

(2) Wine: Afdis

(3) Wine: Lebbie

(4) Zimbokitchen

2

3

4

14 THE STANDARD STYLE /EATING OUT/MOJO’S

March 22 to 28 2015

Mojo’s for much more meat!

Tapas platter

Starch and salad…Mojo’s serves arguably the best chips/fried potatoes in the country

Mojo’s is based in one of the most historic former dwellings in Avondale. The lovely formal garden won first prize in competitions held before the First World War, despite the owner, a Miss Haddow, owning 83 cats!

Dusty Miller

I

WILLINGLY ordered and ate beef last Thursday and totally delicious it was too!

It was at that carnivore’s heaven, Mojo’s, in East Road, Avondale and I simply couldn’t resist a slice of beef sirloin, crisp and dark on the outside and on the rare side of raw, pink, on the inside: not quite still dripping blood but almost so!

I’m certainly not a Hindu, but for several years I’ve taken it very easy on both red meat and red wine and almost never indulged in the two together. But a wonderful looking and smelling juicy joint of sirloin ready to be carved, off the skewer on which it had been lovingly braaied, proved too tempting to refuse.

Mojo’s is a churrascarria (Brazilian/Portuguese for steak house); churrasco is barbecue or braai but with much more sophistication than those labels hint.

Picture the world-famous Carnivore Restaurant, outside Nairobi, Kenya but pile on a slab of class and élan as found at some of the best West End restaurants and you’re getting somewhere.

Barbecue it may be, but the crisp linen, sparkling crystal, expensive china and general fixtures and fittings (you could eat off the loo floors!) and brand new chairs speak of the best-run outlets in Europe, Cape Town or Manhattan!

I ate with partner Mohamed Sami who was last general manager at Harare Sheraton, before the blue-chip international hotel chain washed its hands of Zimbabwe, packing in their local franchise back in 2006 when the “gold-leaf ” hotel became localised and indigenised as Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre.

I’ve long believed if it hadn’t been for Mohamed’s immediate predecessor, fellow Egyptian (but Christian Copt) Magdy Anis (now in

Partner Mohammed Samy. A Muslim he doesn’t touch the restaurant’s luscious cuts of prime pork.

Tibet), Sheraton would have cleared out about 10 minutes after the first farm invasion. Magdy had a touching faith this country— especially tourism — would eventually come right and Egyptians especially, would flock in!

Yeah, well…the jury’s still out on that one!

Mohamed returned to Egypt to run Sheraton’s flagship outlet at Luxor (the ancient capital of Upper Egypt, Thebes, in The Valley of the Kings on the Nile) and I half hoped to see him for a drink on visits there.

It’s was good I didn’t try too hard…he’d transferred to Sheraton Abuja, Nigeria: a place that almost drove him penga with daily head-on collisions with inefficiency, incompetence and blatant corruption. So he returned to Zim to help found Mojo’s!

A unique eating experience there begins (maybe after a pre-prandial dop at an amazingly well-stocked cocktail bar) with a leisurely starter course of tapas.

Then there’s a central salad. A bowl of savoury saffron rice, possibly Zimbabwe’s best twice-cooked chips…and finally the nyama!

Apart from the wonderful export quality

grass-fed, well-hung beef there were beef, pork and chicken sausages, pork fillet and pork chops (pork ribs are apparently currently unavailable here!), chicken thighs, breasts and wings. A great place to take teenagers and others with healthy (or unhealthy!) appetites.

Mains don’t all come together. There’s a beer-mat sized card on the table. Green side up, it says “Yes, Please” in English and Portuguese and “gaucho” waiters/carvers will swiftly arrive and dispense meat, by carving it at the table from the huge stainless steel skewers on which it has been slowly cooked and basted.

Reverse it to red and “No Thank You” and they’ll leave you alone until you feel you can perhaps sample a bite more. There’s no limit to the amount of meat you can eat, or how long you take to enjoy it.

Mojo’s is where Blossom Manor and Haddow House were and was the brainchild of Mohamed’s partner, Julie Webb, a former Centenary tobacco farm girl who was general manager of Imba Matomba/Gecko Gardens/ Arnaldo’s, after starting out at Holiday Inns here and at the local Sheraton.

A qualified chef with a hospitality degree from Bournemouth University, UK, she’s also a former GM of Leopard Rock in The Vumba with extensive overseas experience as an hotelier.

Mojo’s isn’t the sort of place to go if rushed.

My feeling is that it’s possibly more suited for leisurely supper than weekday lunch, with deadlines threatening menacingly, but it’s certainly a grand venue, eating al fresco on a typically sunny Zimbabwean afternoon.

There’s a wide range of grown-up puddings: my fruit-filled apple crumble with raisins and vanilla ice-cream was exemplary. Others are banoffee trifle sundae, chocolate cappuccino cheesecake, passion fruit yoghurt mousse, vanilla cheesecake with a guava topping, served with mango salsa, ice-cream sundae and honey and nougat semifreddo (half-frozen) drizzled with chocolate sauce.

Meat is carved to order at your table, here a juicy joint of beef sirloin All pictured by Dusty Miller Tapas starters with bread, salads, rice and “fries” and the eat-as-much as you like/can churrasco and pudding costs $25 at supper and US$20 for lunch.

Eat indoors, on the verandah or in the lovely gardens. There’s a small conference room and facilities for private receptions and similar, with up to 300 covers. When I was there some time ago a hire company was erecting a marquee for a garden wedding with about 500 pax.

They open Monday to Saturday lunch and supper. Fully licensed, well-stocked cocktail bar available for diners only.

Safe on-site parking; guarded additional parking on verges on East Road. Smoking/no smoking. Child and handicapped friendly.

Mojo’s, 10 East Rd, Avondale. Tel 705993/761639 mojos@zol.co.zw dustymiller46@gmail.com

March 22 to 28 2015

THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK / WINE / AFDIS 15

wine cellar

16 THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK / WINE

March 22 to 28 2015

A Wine Year Simplified Musing in March with a Chardonnay (Shar-Doh-Nay) unoaked.

Chardonnay characteristics can surprise wine lovers from rich fruit flavours to a lime character and fat, bold heavily oaked wines. It is ndoubtedly the second most planted white grape, which at one point had Zimbabwe producing a top Chardonnay. An invitation to a tasting in Johannesburg last week lightened up the wine lover in me, as I found myself in the midst of wines from “boutique” Estates.

It was an opportune time for me to resume my search for that ‘wow’ Chardonnay. That Chardonnay that would make me retrace this variety I’ve struggled to love over the years.

I always feel a sense of honour when I meet a winemaker and told the story behind a wine.

My search for a Chardonnay, was finally fulfilled as Peter-Allen, one of the winemakers, from Crystallum wines in South Africa proudly explained the passion and motivation behind their wines.

A Clay Shales Chardonnay, stimulated my palate. The floral nose with a whiff of stone fruit spelt ‘classy’ followed by a divinely balanced palate filled with a burst of freshness and finesse. Amazing!

Just over 2000 bottles of this single vineyard wine are made.

The second, an Agnes Chardonnay, named after their grandmother, Agnes Floyd, now in its fourth vintage, is full of class and definitely elegant. Full of ripe pear and apple fruit on the nose, it’s the Chardonnay that will fill your mouth with an exciting sparkle and lime zest caressed with a touch of honey. It’s the perfect example of a fresh yet voluptuous Chardonnay. Close to 3200 bottles are made with grapes from three different vineyards.

With over 90 points from Wine Advocate and four stars or more from Platters Wine Guide, these two Chardonnays made a huge impression on my wine palate. I must admit wine lovers, my search is over in that I struck gold, and my journey has just started, this time in rediscovering Chardonnay. To all wine lovers who had given up on Chardonnay, rethink and rediscover your Chardonnay palate. It’s a beautiful Crystallum cheers, t’il the next time we have a Chardonnay, keep wining.

Pictures from www.google.com MyLifeAndWine@icloud.com

Lebbie Masavaya

“For instance You could say one wine is like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz while another is like the mature Judy Garland, or that a big voluptuous chardonnay is like Marilyn Monroe -- round, bosomy -- you can remember that chardonnay, ... If you say a wine is snappy and lively, like Robin Williams, that's very different than the Anthony Hopkins of wine -urbane, sophisticated, measured, considered” - Karen MacNeil DW024

My thoughts cringe, as I travel back in time with wine. Thoughts of some of the big and bold Chardonnay’s I’ve tasted, and some of the pathetic attempts at a bottled Chardonnay. And yet, I’m still in search, for that Chardonnay I can open and relax while my guests and I drink, instead of stiffening until that first sip has been taken.

Chardonnay is a white grape variety coined a ‘household’ name in the world of wine lovers. This white grape produces electrifying, yet dry and savoury full-bodied wines that bottle age, depending on where it is made. It’s a variety that originates from Burgundy, in France, and has made it to the ‘firm favourite’s’

list because of its almost ‘accurate ripeness levels’ and ability to be easily managed. Its vast range of techniques used during wine making affirm the ease at which it can be worked with.

It is the exciting ingredient in the majority of the world’s best ‘bubblies’, and surprisingly has also been known to produce admirable botrytized wines, namely, in New Zealand. Chenin Blanc and Sémillon, to mention a few white varieties, blend wonderfully with Chardonnay. Found made in a ‘rich and oaky style’, in times before, Chardonnays are being found more and more in an easy style, less oak and even towards a tendency of being ETHOS

THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK 17

March 22 to 28 2015

Spoil your family this Sunday with

Thyme and Garlic Roasted Baby Potatoes Just about everyone enjoys a good sandwich. This here sandwich will be great as a lunchbox idea for school or the office. It will also work for breakfast or a light lunch even. As usual sandwiches don’t take time to prepare so this will be done in 5 min.

Servings: 4 Cooking time: 5 min

Ingredients 8 slices whole wheat bread 2 large tomatoes, sliced into rings 4 ham slices Salt and ground black pepper to taste Butter/Margarine to spread

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Get your ingredients together Spread butter or margarine on your bread slices.

Preheat your pan. Place a slice of bread with the buttered side facing down.

Add the ham and tomato slices. Sprinkle some salt and pepper.

Cover the sandwich with another slice of bread, the buttered side facing upwards.

Allow the bottom slice to get toasted, flip it over and cook for a few minutes until the slice is also toasted.

Remove from heat, repeat process until all the sandwiches are done.

Enjoy

by Rumbie - Zimbokitchen www.zimbokitchen.com

Simple Sponge cake

T

oday’s sweet treat is the soft, scrumptious Sponge Cake. This cake is unique because of its spongy texture that is so wonderfully light and moist. As with a lot of sponge cakes, this cake gets most of its rise from the air whipped into the eggs. It’s a simple recipe.

Sponge cake does not contain solid fat, hurray, good news for those weight watchers!! It is ideal for those watching their fat intake. This cake has a sweet flavour, and a great aroma to it. It can be eaten plain, sprinkled with icing sugar served with fresh fruit or with custard.

The cake can be used in trifle, or my personal favourite eaten plain with a dollop of whipped cream. One can alternatively add fresh cream to the heavenly cake. The cake will keep several days or it can be frozen. Try it and ENJOY!!!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes Serves 10 Ingredients 6 large eggs, room temperature, separated and placed into separate large bowls 100 grams sieved self-raising flour 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 200 grams castor sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 2 tablespoons water Zest of lemon or orange (outer skin).

Method 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Preheat oven to 180 degrees C. Line two 25 cm round baking tins with baking paper.

Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another bowl.

Add sieved flour into a bowl, add baking powder and salt. Combine with wooden spoon and set aside.

Place the egg yolks and 135 grams of the castor sugar into a large bowl, using an electric mixer beat on high speed until thick, fluffy and light coloured. To check if the yolks are of the right consistency look and see: when you slowly raise the beater of the mixer the yolk will fall back into the bowl in a slow ribbon (ribbon effect). Add vanilla essence to the yolks, water, and lemon zest. Beat for an additional 3 minutes. Set aside while you beat the egg whites.

In a separate large bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy until soft peaks form.

Gradually add 65 grams of sugar and continue beating until the egg whites are shiny and peaks are forming.

Add the flour mixture over the beaten egg yolks in three additions, one portion at a time and gently but quickly fold the flour into the egg yolk batter with each addition.

Gently fold a little of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it, and

Cakes by Sonia then add the rest of the whites, folding just until incorporated. (Do not over mix the batter or it will deflate). Pour the batter into the pans, smoothing the top.

9. Bake for 28 - 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

10. Remove from oven and immediately invert the pans (turn upside down).

11. Allow the cake to cool completely for about one hour. Run a flat metal spatula or sharp knife around the inside of the pans to avoid sticking.

12. Serve as desired or as suggested earlier.

Sonia’s Tip:

 Remember, always check a few minutes before the stated baking time, and record it so as to monitor baking time.  Do not over mix the batter or it will deflate the sponge cake.

Baking Tid Bits for flawless cakes  Avoid using cold eggs It is very important for eggs to be at room temperature when baking. Cold eggs result in a mixture that will not combine well. If you’re short on time, place eggs in a bowl of warm water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Follow Rudo Sonia on instagram: @soniascakes For enquiries email Rudo Sonia: rudosoniacakes@gmail.com

18 THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK

March 22 to 28 2015

THE STANDARD STYLE

FAMILY Mutendi family.

Send us pictures of your family and a short caption of your values. Email your photos with the weekly code in the subject heading to style@standard.co.zw Specifications: JPEG minimum size 2MB Min. 300dpi

20 THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY

March 22 to 28 2015

Your Marriage with Evan

Fight nicely you love if you have never supported them. Support before you oppose. This way your opposition is received in the light of previous support not in the shadow of previous opposition.

2) Check your tone of Voice Many fights end up being about arrogance and pride than the real issue. Your tone of voice will often determine whether your spouse will listen and engage you in a civil manner or if they will launch into a ‘crazy’ tirade. As much as possible introduce your point of contention with seriousness but also with calmness. Your spouse will listen to your words but will also listen to your tone because it is what communicates your perception of them. Sometimes people don’t raise their voices but they are sarcastic and demeaning. Whilst its ok for your tone to be as you feel, you must learn to maturely hold back and rephrase. Say what you mean and mean what you say.

3) Don’t call each other names Evan Mawarire

I

know it sounds pretty strange to say fight nicely. Fights in their very nature are not nice things to do or to experience but we cannot avoid them as humans and more so as a married couple.

Whilst we hope never to fight, its is one of those things that is as inevitable as the ticking of time. No matter how great characters we may be or beautiful personalities we may possess, a fight with our spouse is going to happen somewhere somehow.

By now I hope you understand that I’m not talking about a physical fight but a fight of words, expectations and misunderstandings. Show me a couple who have never had a misunderstanding and I’ll show you a couple that has never been real to each other. Just

because you avoid a fight does not mean it’s not there. You may postpone it but one day it will have to be fought otherwise it will explode uncontrollably. Am I saying look for opportunities to fight? By no means. I’m saying that an argument is going to happen because you are not always going to agree on everything. When that moment comes you need to be ready to fight nicely or fight clean. Up to now your fights may have been extremely horrible encounters that tear you apart. In this article I want to share with you some things to remember for the next fight. These things are going to help you to actually get positives out of your fights and to come out ready to love again no matter what the fight was about. Sound impos-

sible? Well explore with me.

1) Choose your battles wisely.

Not everything must be fought over. Just because you disagree on a matter does not mean that you should definitely fight over it. Learn to concede or to look past your spouses mistake right at the point of happening. When we have too many fights, our encounters become reminders of how we must prepare to defend or to attack. Fighting over the TV remote control is not a battle worth your while. You may win the battle but you will have lost the war. I like to use what I call the law of support.

You cannot oppose a person whom

A fight can easily become a session of verbally abusing one another.

When we fight nicely we attack the issue not the person. As difficult as it may be to not call him a fool, you will soon realise that it brings out the worst in a person. She will never forget the jab at her weight issue when you called her a ‘fat slob’ even though the issue of the fight had nothing to do with her weight. It’s only small people who have a low esteem of themselves who verbally abuse others into submission. When we have been mocked we sometimes keep quiet not because we give in but because we are planning our revenge.

4)Decide your point of ceasefire If you want to win arguments by

pinning your spouse down and counting to three as in a wrestling match you may be fighting for a long time. Long fights breed resentment and end up being extremely complicated. As you start a fight make a decision at what point you will let it go. Some people jus don’t know when to stop. I’m not saying walk away and give the silent treatment. I’m saying decide to say “Look we’ve said everything that needs to be said so lets move forward with an agreed position”.

5) Agree to seek mediation Husband and wife fights get really ugly when either no one knows or when too many people know the issue. The two of you will be able to solve issues based on how much each one is willing to hear their partner out and respond objectively. When this does not happen then it is wise to seek mediation. Let your spouse know and if possible get their consent to seek mediation or counsel on the matter. This allows each of you to tell their side of the story to the mediator whilst your partner listens. Many times you will hear things that you have never heard even though your spouse swears they’ve told all this before. Be careful that you don’t go around telling anybody and everybody that cares to listen because it makes it very difficult for you to think straight and for your spouse to respond to the many versions and opinions of your friends or family.

Let me challenge you once again to apply these things into your marriage. I agree that they are hard but it is true that they are not impossible. A good marriage is not a matter of luck but of choice.

Follow me on twitter @PastorEvanlive, like my facebook page - Pastor Evan Live

March 22 to 28 2015

LILIAN MASITERA THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / EDUCATION 21 masiteral@yahoo.com 0772 924 796 Rise above, Take flight & Move on!

Usave Saskam,

verenga udzore pfungwa

MEET THE WINNERS

Winner Precious Nemutenzi Form 5 & 6

Stop The Violence continued from previous week

D

awn arrived earlier than expected. It found me reluctantly treading the streets of peaceville again for the second time.

It was the peak hour and people briskly marched to their work places. Everyone seemed not to care about the next person. More than thrice, someone would bump into me and never bothered to apologise. Even though I was still new to Peaceville, I swiftly noticed that its citizens were not benevolent. As I walked round a busy street corner, I was extremely exasperated by the noise of rank marshals calling out definitely to invite passengers to board commuter omnibuses which were commonly known as kombis.

Out of the blue, the action recommenced. Sirens sounded in the chilly morning air and whirling lights flashed everywhere.

The screening of brakes and alarming sounds from other pedestrians made me to stop moving. I looked around and havoc was far and wide. the sound of the car doors being violently slammed at once redirected my sight to my rear. A squad of furious policemen stormed out of the police car and sprinted towards the kombis. Within a blink of an eye, the law enforcers were already smashing the windscreens of the kombis vigorously. An old man struggled to save himself as he had been incised by the broken glass. He was sitting on the front seat in one of the kombis which were parked on a strictly prohibited street. The pitiable old creature never saw the batter stick strike and was only startled by status quo he found himself in.

Almost simultaneously, another kombi which was parked at the far end unexpectedly reserved. Instantaneously, it veered into the busy traffic jam. The driver was determined to save his kombi’s windscreen and fled off with the vehicle. His misdemeanor deeply infuriated the policemen who angrily took up their chase in their own car. The two vehicles turned traffic chaotic and regaled onlookers. Unfortunately, the fun turned awkward sooner than it became adrenaline-charged. An innocent school boy was trying to cross the road unaware of the ‘cat and mouse’ game in the city. He was accidentally hit by the kombi. Grudging losing the chase, the kombi driver wickedly continued with his contest as if nothing had transpired.

The angelic little boy lay cold and lifeless in a pool of his own blood. The policemen involved in the chase looked foolish as they stood in front of the corpse. They were diminished by the insults and rebukes they received from fuming observers.

That afternoon, Peaceville’s routine was altered as thousands of citizens marched up and down the roads singing and shouting with a common voice. Metancholic mourners dressed in black wept while carrying the coffin bearing the boy’s body. It was loud and clear that the people had enough violence and wanted tranquility. The demonstration was steered by school kids who were friends of the deceased. The pupils, clad in their school uniforms, held a banner written in bold

‘WE DENOUNCE VIOLENCE!!’

22 THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / HEALTH

Ask the Doctor Dr Kudzayi Munanzvi I am a 53 year old woman and have been suffering from excessive sweating. My doctor has told me that it is caused by menopause and will pass but it is extremely distressing . The initial symptom is usually a sensation of warmth over my entire body then the sweating starts. It can be so bad as to drip down my face and back. These attacks happen many times each day. Is there anything that I can take to relieve these symptoms?

Menopause occurs when menstruation stops for more than one year in a woman usually around the age of 55. It is actually a process that can take several years to complete.

There is essentially a change in the hormonal milieu in a woman’s body and this leads to changes in several body systems.

The result is many symptoms including hot flushes, as you have described, urinary frequency, vaginal dryness , increase in risk of cardiovascular disease, increased rate of bone loss and mood swings. Severity of each of these symptoms varies from one person to the next.

There are a variety of remedies for hot flushes ranging from basic lifestyle changes such as exercise and wearing natural materials such as cotton. Exercise has been found to alleviate symptoms in more than fifty percent of patients.

Avoiding triggers such as stress, alcohol and spicy foods may also be helpful.

A variety of homeopathic remedies containing phyto-oestrogens may be helpful. These are readily available at many pharmacies ; however it is always wise to check with your doctor before taking any herbal medications. As a last resort, your doctor can prescribe hormone replacement therapy which really does help with the flushes .

Not everyone is a candidate for hormone replacement therapy because it has a variety of side effects including increased risk of cancer.

My husband has just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. I am greatly distressed and worried that my children may have a risk of getting it.

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer found in the large intestines. It usually arises in a patient with preexisting polyps and is more common in developed countries.

Patients with a family history, in your case a first degree relative, have a two to three fold increased risk. Other lifestyle factors such as obesity, a diet rich in red meat and low in fibre and alcohol intake also result in increased risk.

These are known as modifiable factors as they can be altered by making lifestyle changes to lower the risk. A family history of polyps and a number of genetic abnormalities are found in many patients with colorectal cancer.

There are a number of screening tests available that may able to detect the cancer at an early stage. Screening is useful in patients who are at risk of getting colon cancers and is commonly performed in older patients.

Symptoms to watch out for include change in bowel habit, worsening constipation , blood in stool and aweight loss .

A sample of stool can be taken to test for the presence of blood as a preliminary screening method.

Thereafter , your doctor can perform a colonoscopy which is a visual inspection of the colon through a scope introduced into the colon from the rectum.

It has the advantage that it allows the surgeon to biopsy any suspicious lesions that he finds.

I hope this helps. Best wishes to your family.

With winter coming up, is it advisable to have a flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is given annually and contains three or four virus strains which vary from season to season.

The American Centre for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone older than six months should receive the vaccine. It is administered as an injection or nasal spray and provides protection for one year. It has been shown by various studies, to significantly reduce disease , hospitalization and death.

Among young children, who are particularly at risk, the vaccine also reduces transmission to their household contacts.

After the jab, minor side effects such as runny nose and sore throat but these resolve after a few days.

For any feedback questions and suggestions regarding this column, kindly email Dr Kudzayi Munanzvi on ksmautsa@ gmail.com

March 22 to 28 2015

THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / GETAWAY 23

March 22 to 28 2015

Romance with the Benjamin Leon

Steam Trains

There was a hive of activity on the platform of the Harare railway station recently when 150 passengers boarded the train hauled by a steam engine to Ruwa Country Club.

The engine—a 15A Class Garret commissioned by Rhodesia Railways in 1952—is credited to have travelled two million miles. The previous week, the St Valentine’s Day Run carried 190 passengers to Ruwa.

The train comprised eight coaches, most of them dining cars which were taken out of moth balls and were on loan from the Railway Museum in Bulawayo. Travelling down memory lane with a steam engine has been going on in Bulwayo for some time, when passengers filled steam trains going to Victoria Falls and Figtree. Mr. Robin Taylor, Chairman of the Mashonaland branch of the History Society of Zimbabwe liased with railway officials in Harare to run steam trains from Harare where he believed there was a market for such a venture. In Shona it is called a chitima.

On the platform many photographic enthusiasts photographed friends and relatives with the Garret, hissing steam, as a backgound. On this trip a water bowser was attached imediately behind the engine. The engine itself was not in prime condition and was leaking in various areas. She was in need of refurbishment.

At 10am prompt, huffing and puffing with huge clouds of steam coming out of the piston chambers the mechanical giant began its journey to Ruwa Country Club, with many passengers leaning out of windows. The train conductor, Sargent Major Charles Mwanywa of the NRZ Security Branch informed passen-

gers that the train would stop at Mabvuku Siding for a photo shoot. He advised that when he blew his whistle passengers should re-embark.

Photographs were taken of the huge locomotive billowing smoke, and a crowd gathered around the driving cab watching the firemen shovelling coal into the huge boiler. Passengers were thrilled to be allowed on the footplate. Meanwhile a petrol driven machine was pumping water into the engine from the bowser. The locomotive is segmented, allowing it to bend and negotiate track curves with ease. A huge water tank is mounted on top of the front engine and the coal tender is mounted on the rear engine.The weight is what allows efficient traction. When the wheels start to slip more water is added to increase weight. The boiler in the centre is free of any mechanism.

The railway line in places ran parallel with the road and a number of motorist could be seen photographing the train as it moved along.

After a brief stop at Ruwa Siding the train moved on a further five kilometres to the Ruwa Country Club.

This was not a regular halt and trains working authorities had arranged for the normal traffic to be held back until the train had discharged passengers. It later moved onto the next siding where the engine was detached and then shunted to the rear of the train where it was coupled on —this time the engine was running backwards. There was no facilty in the area to turn the locomotive around.

The club house was about a kilometre away from the train stop and passengers had the option of walking or taking a ride in coach laid on by the NRZ.

Passengers photograph the steam train during a stop at Mabvuku Siding

Sitting in the shade of a huge tree in front of the club house passengers sat down to

school holidays and the Easter weekend. The steam train trip today was organised entirely

a three course lunch.

Mr. Robin Taylor in his address, gave a brief history of engine No 414, which was commissioned in 1952 and had travelled two million miles. It was in need of refurbishment but had performed very well. He had liased with railway authorities to extend the romance of steam trains to Harare where he believed there was a market for such a venture. Mr. Norman Ushe, Traffic Officer (Train Crew Management) thanked Mr Taylor for his assistance. It was noted that another steam train would be run during the

by the NRZ. Mr Taylor announced the forthcoming 60th wedding anniversary of John and Maureen Elliot (both 81) who were present and had been married at Ruwa Country Club in 1955.

At 3pm passengers departed for the halt where they found the train waiting, with the steam engined coupled on backwards onto the guard’s van. With a loud whistle and huge clouds of steam it started for Harare at 3:15pm. There were no stops on the return journey and it pulled into the Harare Station platform at 4pm.

Having lunch at Ruwa Country Club

Norman Ushe, Traffic Officer at NRZ, thanks Robin Taylor for his input in promoting steam trains in Harare.

The 15A Class Garret shunting in the yard of Harare Station.It was commisioned in 1952 it has travelled two million miles. insert: Engine Driver Webster Mwarumbe in the driver’s cab of the 15A Class Garret

On the platform taking family photos with a background of engine and clouds of steam

Conductor Sgt Major Charles Mwanywa of NRZ Security Branch chats with passengers.

24 THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / GETAWAY

March 22 to 28 2015

Getaways and outings for 22 March Drag Racing at Donnybrook

Rosie Mitchell

Bulawayo Museum Fun Day

In Bulawayo Saturday 28 March from 10am is a Museum Fun Day which offers many enjoyable activities, including a quiz, treasure hunt, archaeological dig, car boot sale and more, all a commendable community effort to keep this important national treasure alive and well. Many efforts are being made in Bulawayo to retain interest in the Museum and there is currently a Temporary Display of Dinosaurs of Zimbabwe. Every Tuesday at 1pm an episode of the BBC production ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’ is being screened. There is also a Museum Conservation Club which meets on Fridays from 2 to 3pm, with an interesting topic each week. If looking for a family-friendly outing, see the dinosaur display, watch the film on Tuesday, pop along to Conservation Club Friday, then on Saturday, enjoy a social Fun Day!

Troutbeck ATU Triathlon African Cup and Open Water Swim Triathletes whether elite or enjoying this sport for fun and fitness, are busy training for their big event in Nyanga on 28 March, the Troutbeck ATU Triathlon African Cup incorporating the Troutbeck Mile Open Water Swim and National Triathlon Championships. The country’s top triathletes will be out in force, but like all ZimTri events, anyone can participate, whether just in the Swims (1500 or 750 metres), or in the usual range of Triathlon events for different age groups and abilities. Troutbeck has special rates for this exciting weekend, and whether you go along to participate or support, this makes a great family getaway! See www.zimtri.org.

Drag Racing at Donnybrook today

If all this sounds way too energetic, take the family for a day out at Donnybrook. Today is the first in the Telecel Drag Racing Series 2015, and a social and festive way to spend a day. These events attract a diverse and friendly crowd and the races are very exciting.

There is lots laid on for the kids and food and drink available. You can take your own picnic or braai too.

Musical delights abound

Elsewhere in Style is coverage of the Eisteddfod. Today at Prince Edward School enjoy lovely piano and vocal solos from some of the country’s best. This afternoon, enjoy Marden Singers ‘A Little Jazz Mass’ at Arundel School Chapel at 3pm, composed by Bob Chilcott of the King Singers and professional musician for the BBC. This offers classical music for voices and instruments with the spoken word and features well-known Zimbabwean musicians and locally based artists from Japan, Turkey, Britain and Holland. Next weekend, are the Eisteddfod Final and Junior Highlights Concert on 28 and 29 March and a Chamber Music Concert in Arundel Chapel on 29 March at 3pm featuring Jeanette Micklem, Catherine Stirling, Amy, Arianna and Abigail Macy. At 3.30pm on 28 and 29 March, the Phoenix and Harare Male Voice Choirs plus guests perform a selection of classical choral excerpts in St Mary Magdalene Church Avondale.

THE STANDARD STYLE

ARTS & CULTURE

1 In this issue of Arts & Culture

2

(1,2 Arts (4) Celeb News

3

(3) Breaking New Ground

4

26 THE STANDARD STYLE /COMMUNITY/ BREAKING NEW GROUND

March 22 to 28 2015

After years of groping in the dark,

Chipo Nenzou finally finds her place

Thinner is Better

Patricia Mabviko Musanhu

A

n education system that focuses on academics alone forces students to put all their attention towards acquiring theoretical knowledge. The assumption is that this theoretical knowledge is the most important form of education they need when it comes to finding a career. In such a system, very little or no recognition is placed on practical subjects or in understanding the soft skills of the students in question with a view to using these as additional skills to help guide them to their careers.

In addition, very little focus is placed on helping the students to understand the different careers available in the market place so that whilst they are in school, they can begin to create some linkages between what they are learning and where they are likely to settle in terms of a career. Chipo Nenzou is a product of such a system and like many students, she struggled to find a link between the theory she had learnt at school and a career she could pursue. Her search for a career was a journey filled with con-

fusion and uncertainty until a friend helped to direct her to a most suitable career through recognizing her soft skills. ‘’You study quite a lot of subjects at school and none of these really link you to any career because they are so broad. I didn’t know which direction to take in terms of choosing a career and worse still for me I never got the opportunity to get some career guidance whilst at school, ’’ said Chipo.

Chipo completed her ‘O’ levels without any idea of what she was going to do next. Concerned with her situation, her mother suggested that she takes up nursing and so she applied and got a place to do nursing in England. This course was to last only a short while.

‘I dropped out because I didn’t like it and in no time I was back at home. However, I couldn’t just sit at home. I realized that I had to do something to earn a living and so I took up a course in secretarial studies and soon after wards got a job as a receptionist, ‘’ she said.

Chipo worked for six

months and then left for a better paying job where she worked as a personal assistant. After two years, she left this job to join a Non Governmental Organization for another secretarial position. It was whilst working for this organization that Chipo came to appreciate the importance of considering her soft skills in choosing a career.

‘I want to thank a friend of mine who advised that I consider taking up a career in social work because of my natural ability to sit and listen to people. I never saw this as a strength that could possibly be considered when choosing a career. I am an introvert naturally and I have an ability to give a lot of undivided attention to someone when I am interacting with them,’’ she added.

Understanding who she is helped Chipo to find her way to a career she has now undertaken to pursue. Chipo’s strength in terms of her character played an important role in helping her to make a different career choice. She now believes that it is important for any young person to do a self assessment of their

character and identify their strengths and weaknesses with a view to using this assessment to help them choose a career in addition to their education. This will help people to avoid taking up whatever is available or whatever career is thrown at them.

Chipo also advises parents to help their children walk this journey of self discovery from much earlier on in their schooling lives so that they are not groping in the dark throughout their lives trying to find a career most suitable for them.

‘I am studying towards a Diploma in Social Work with one of the local universities and will be graduating this year. I love what I am doing now and I think it’s where I am supposed to be. It’s taken a lot of time to get to where I am today but I am happy that I am finally here,’’ she said.

Patricia Mabviko Musanhu is a Company Director/ Producer at Black and White Media Productions. She can be contacted at pmabviko@ gmal.com

Josephine Kanengoni

Y

es. It’s a political statement I know. But I stand by it. I’m so sick and tired of people skirting around the issue and acting like the only reason weight is an issue is because we as a people are concerned about our health. We all know the real reason why weight loss is so celebrated. Just ask Jennifer Hudson and the Oprah of the early 90’s. Life is better on the other side of the scale.

In an ideal world – size wouldn’t matter. People would strut their goodies- whatever size of said goodies. Gabourey Sidibe would be treated with the same reverence as Halle Berry and Mariah and her millions wouldn’t struggle so publicly with weight issues. What’s on the outside really, honestly, wouldn’t count for anything. But unfortunately society’s standards are harsh. And society is not too kind to big people. There is a picture already approved for what beauty looks like, and the one consistent fact - beauty is always thin. This is the reason why women as powerful as Oprah will try and fail and try again to lose weight. Because as happy as they are, they know losing weight would make them happier. It’s the reason Monique will tell you she is a lot happier now, even though she insisted when she was plus size that she wouldn’t change a thing about herself. It’s the reason why the average adult woman’s life is filled with obsessions of numbers on the scale and failed diets.

Because ‘big’ is not a good look – not by society’s standards.

And no matter how strong a person you are, no matter how happy and content, how proud of your achievements, how sure of your capabilities, every now and then, the reality that all this would be better enjoyed with a size 8 figure will hit you.

But the worst part, our attempt as society to show our progression in embracing people of all sizes. Lauding ‘plus size’ women like Salma Hayek and Kim Kardashian as our way of saying ‘Look at us. We like everyone now– ‘fat’ people included’.

All this does? Affirm the truth that we’re a world that really doesn’t want to embrace the reality of what big really means.

Because as beautiful and curvy as these women are; none of them is at the center of the problem. It’s the Gabourey’s, the ordinary women who make up over a third of our population.

The young girl starving herself or stuffing her face then spending all night with her face on the toilet seat. The people who long every single day to lose those extra pounds – whatever it takes. Those are the people who really understand the plight of the ‘fat’ woman.

THE STANDARD STYLE / ARTS 27

March 22 to 28 2015

Born free Exhibition: A Whole New Mind

Zvikomborero Mandangu

T

he National Gallery of Zimbabwe will be hosting the first edition of the Born Free Exhibition, an exhibition which seeks to give a voice to those born in the jubilation of an independent Zimbabwe under the theme A Whole New Mind from the 16th of April to the 15th of June 2015.

This exhibition seeks to explore the importance of this generation of Zimbabweans and examine challenges they face in light of issues of identity, religion and history.

The exhibition will provide a form of inspiration to solutions through the artists’ work from their own informed context and more complete picture of the Zimbabwean reality.

These young artists will present artworks in different mediums which will interrogate the frustrations, hopes and social views of their generation.

These young artists will engage in their own realities from the 1980s to the present day. Hearing echoes from the older generation of artists has been exciting, but one must not forget that the reflection finds inspiration in the day to day struggles they encounter.

There is a war every generation has to fight. Every generation has to fight for their rights or problems affecting them. The born-frees have their struggles which they have to fight which include corruption, need for jobs and equal opportuni-

DStv Aquarius PR

Z

imbabwe’s advertising communications industry will honour the best advertising in the country during 2014 at the DStv Ngoma Awards, scheduled to be held in Harare in early April.

The Ngoma awards are designed to recognise and reward excellence in advertising communications and have been held each year since 2005. Based on entries from advertising agencies and other individuals and organisations, the awards competition is adjudicated by a panel of local judges and an international judge, and awards are handed out in more than a dozen categories.

The overall award for campaign of the year is the most prestigious of the selection and will this year be named the

Feel Every Moment Award, as a result of continued support from MultiChoice Zimbabwe, which is also this year’s title sponsor.

“We are delighted with the support from MultiChoice, as well as from our other sponsors, and this has enabled the competition to be run for 10th year, with a record number of entries from a large number of entrant organisations,” said Judy Macdonald, a member of the organising team.

The deadline for entries at the end of January saw almost 320 entries in the various categories. Judging is now taking place and the awards presentation will take place at a glittering luncheon on Saturday April 11, an event open to anyone interested or involved in adver-

tising, marketing, sales and public relations, as well as from the media.

“We are hoping for a good turnout of industry professionals this year, especially from among the sales and marketing managers who control the advertising decision-making within corporates.

They have not attended in the numbers they should in recent years, and we feel it is important for them to see what is happening within the advertising communications industry and be part of the process of change and development,” said Ms Macdonald.

More information can be sourced from (04) 870306 or empire@mango.zw

ties for everyone. All this is compounded by the crises related to identity, religion and history they have to deal with.

What happened during the colonial rule is not immediate for this generation thus they cannot relate.

Their problems, like those of a fairly young state, are all consuming and seem unmanageable. The talk of how conditions were better during colonial rule is constantly being disproved. It has been shown that opportunities offered by the minority white government were limited to a few blacks and that life under white rule was not really desirable – the curfews, the infamous pass and the much hated segregation.

This exhibition offers a platform for the young artists to posit the question: What roles can the born frees play in bettering their own lives and that of the nation at large?

The world has become fluid in terms of information flow and how people ought to conduct themselves in their respective societies. They reiterate the need to move away from blaming others and offer solutions to the current problems whilst embracing that the past shapes the future. They also think that the solutions lie in realizing that the present is an interwoven mixture that requires several individuals with dynamic ideas to continuously improve on past and present accomplishments.

28 THE STANDARD STYLE / ARTS

March 22 to 28 2015

Festive Marimba Challenge at Rosie Mitchell The Marimba Challenge is an exciting annual event at the National Institute of Allied Arts (NIAA) Eisteddfod. Considered one of several particular highlights of the festival, it is very festive and always draws a large audience. This year’s edition met all expectations, with an enthusiastic crowd of proud parents, teachers and general public turning out to enjoy an hour and a half of really excellent entertainment! Those Marimba Ensembles which have been awarded Honours during their adjudications earlier in the festival can come forward to participate in the Junior and Senior Challenges. 104 marimba ensembles performed at this year’s Eisteddfod and of these, 7 junior schools and 11 senior schools were awarded Honours, the highest accolade attainable at the NIAA Eisteddfod and its other three festivals (Visual Arts, Literary,

POETRY CORNER

NIAA Eisteddfod

plus Speech and Drama, which take place in June and July). Last Friday’s young performers were clearly enjoying themselves at least as much as those watching and listening to them, and demonstrated very well, why they had attained such high marks!

The Challenges were held on the Prince Edward Schools basketball court. These talented youngsters injected a great deal of energy, action, dance and humour into their performances. The music was excellent and entertainment value top notch and the audience loved it all. Seeing young performers enjoying themselves so much producing music, while and making their audience happy, was a heart-warming experience. Adjudicated by Boudina McConnachie and Anthony Caplan, both from Grahamstown, and with compère Blessing Chimanga, the afternoon’s musicmaking ended on a high note, with all in a festive mood. Eisteddfod Director Nicky Hammond, gave a short, upbeat speech while the

BERENICE BOELL

adjudicators deliberated. The quality of the performances in the Challenges was so high that their task to select the Trophy winners was extremely challenging!

The Nic Manomano Challenge Trophy for winner of the Junior Marimba Challenge went to the Dominican Convent Grade 6 Marimba Band, with Runner Up, Mother Touch Primary School. The Kutinya Challenge Trophy went to Prince Edward School, with Watershed College in second place and St John’s College in third place.

The fourth international Adjudicator, Ben Costello arrived from England last week to begin his expert assessments of young performances at the Eisteddfod. It is delightful to see him back in Zimbabwe. Like fellow invited adjudicators, Eren Levendoglu from Turkey (but who grew up in Zimbabwe), Anthony Caplan and Boudina McConnachie, he is an excellent adjudicator who puts the young performers at ease and provides much constructive feedback and encouragement. Ben conducted the HIFA 2010 Opening Show, a performance of Carl Orff ’s great work ‘Carmina Burana’.

As a member of the large choir who sang this amazing work, with the visual drama provided by actors and dancers, I thoroughly enjoyed being trained and conducted for this performance by the affable Ben, who in the final days before the big night, consolidated and fine-tuned our earlier training under Colbert Mpofu. Ben is a superb musician, conductor and choir master and a very friendly person with a great sense of humour. He is also very experienced adjudicator and is a well-known conductor, musical director, pianist and singing coach.

There is much still to enjoy at this year’s very full Eisteddfod Programme, so make a point of going along. If you haven’t yet booked for the Final Concert and Junior Performers’ Highlights Concerts on 28 and 29 March, do so soon at The Spotlight, it is filling up! This morning till lunchtime at PE School you can go and enjoy piano sonatas, vocal jazz solos 16 to 21 and the Open category for men’s and women’s vocal recitals and opera, so you can be assured of a delightful, high quality morning of some of the country’s finest. Just some of next week’s highlights are the Vocal Challenges at Harare International school (HIS) on 25 March at 6.30 pm, and Bands and Orchestras on 27 March, also at HIS. Better still, get a programme ($2) from PE today so you can make the most of the festival before it ends on 29 March.

THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 29

March 22 to 28 2015

Kim Kardashian

DSTV: THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

Tune in to ‘Murder in the First’ on M-Net-Pic2 Guardians of the Galaxy airs on M-Net Movies Premiere on Sunday 22 March at 20:30 CAT Comic actor Chris Pratt (Parks & Recreation) transformed himself into a hunk to take the lead in this intergalactic adventure from the blockbuster studio that brought you Thor, The Avengers and Iron Man. The most unlikely superheroes in the Marvel Comics universe come together to stop a fanatic intergalactic warrior from taking control of the galaxy. The result: An action-packed epic of comic proportions.

Murder in the First will air on M-Net from Sunday 22 March at 18:00 CAT Taye Diggs (Private Practice) and Kathleen Robertson (Bates Motel) star in this intriguing mystery drama. Detectives Terry English and Hildy Mulligan are investigating two seemingly separate murders when they stumble on one very high-profile clue: both of these cases are linked to a Silicon Valley prodigy with a lot to lose. An intricate and complex web of lies and deceit mask the true events of both murders- and the killer’s identity.

For the Kim Kardashian fans - new season of Keeping Up with the Kardashians returns this Sunday !

E! Entertainment’s famous Kardashian clan return this March, airing one week after it’s US debut The Kardashians are back! The 10th season of Keeping up with the Kardashians returns on Sunday 22 March exclusive to E! Entertainment on DStv Channel 124 and airs one week after the US debut episode screened on 15 March.

The famous American family return home to a brand new season on E! after Kim’s fairytale dream wedding in Italy to Kanye West culminated in season 9. In the new season, post wedding bliss is juxtaposed with Kim’s pregnancy struggles to conceive a sibling for North West.

This season will also focus on the private lives of her siblings and changes in the family dynamics. Younger sister Kendall’s modelling career starts to soar as she becomes a hit on the catwalks, and we follow Kourtney’s jour-

ney through her third pregnancy. It’s not all joy though as “momager” Kris deals with the aftermath of her separation from Bruce and speculation about her new relationship ensues.

There’s sure to be plenty of drama, glamour, laughter and tears with this family as they meet life’s triumphs and tragedies headon in their trademark Kardashian style, supporting each other always through the good and the bad.

This exclusive 10th season of Keeping Up with The Kardashians is one not to be missed, only on E! on DStv channel 124 at 8pm .

For more information log on to www.dstv.com

CSI : Cyber Premieres on M-Net on Wednesday 25 March at 21:30 CAT A spin-off of the CSI franchise, this fast-paced crime drama is right up your alley if you enjoy series like Criminal Minds, Major Crimes and NCIS: Los Angeles. Golden Globe winner Patricia Arquette (Medium) stars in this allnew crime drama about cyber psychologist Avery Ryan who heads up the Cyber Crime Division of the FBI. Together with her expert forensic team, these CSIs solve internet-related crimes that extend to hacking, cyber-theft, blackmail and even murder.

Man vs Expert airs on Discovery Channel on Wednesday 25 March at 22:00 CAT Watch this absorbing new series to find out if it’s ever possible to shortcut your way to the top. Each episode sees hustler Alexis Conran take on three intense challenges against world-class experts. Can he come up with a way to beat them at their own game without having gone through years of hard work and training? In any normal head-to-head contest Alexis wouldn’t stand a chance, but he will travel the world and look to science and technology as well as his hustling skills in his determination to come out on top. He’ll then share the techniques and tricks employed in his attempt to beat the expert, be it a sporting champion, a professor or even the World’s Strongest Man. Akon By Akon: An African Dream Come True airs on Trace Urban on Wednesday 25 March at 23:00 CAT From his debut on The Score with the Fugees and his chart-topping R&B hits, through spe-

cial collaborations and social activism, Akon is now a genuine global icon. To celebrate the upcoming release of a new album, Stadium, TRACE Urban screens an exclusive documentary celebrating his incredible career!

Marriage Bootcamp S2 premieres on Lifetime on Friday 27 March at 20:45 CAT It features five outrageous Bridezillas and their husbands living together in the same house for an extreme marriage boot camp, in an effort to work out their marriage demons and answer the burning question - is their marriage worth saving? Couples whose marriages are on a path to destruction undergo a two week boot camp, where they are put through a progressive series of strategic exercises and drills designed to get at the root of what’s destroying their marriages. With their marriages headed for divorce, one couple has already filed papers to end their union. Will they be able to save their marriages or is it too little too late?

Botched up Bodies will air on TLC Entertainment from Friday 27 March at 20:55 CAT This documentary series will be following some of Britain’s top plastic surgeons who correct cosmetic surgery disasters. With exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the renowned plastic surgery unit at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, the surgeons correct the catastrophes and give the victims the bodies, faces, teeth and tums that they have always wanted.

Top: Early Talents airs on Trace Sport Stars on Friday 27 March at 21:00 CAT This show turns back the clock to look at how some of the biggest female athletes showed their promise in their early years. Beating the competition is nothing new to these champions, and we show how their blossoming talents formed foundations for incredible careers. Stars include Gabby Douglas, who won her first competition aged just eight, and tennis superstar Maria Sharapova, who started playing at nine and turned pro at just fourteen!

Young & Hungry will premiere on M-Net Series Zone on Tuesday 31 March at 19:30 CAT Gabi, a feisty, young chef, has just landed an interview for her dream job – personal chef to tech millionaire Josh. Josh’s right hand man, Elliott, is not impressed with Gabi, but Josh is won over by Gabi’s ability to know exactly what he wants to eat. But when the romantic dinner Gabi planned to help Josh propose to his girlfriend takes a very unexpected turn, Gabi fears she may have lost the best job she ever had.

30 THE STANDARD STYLE / ENVIRONMENT

March 22 to 28 2015

Marlborough Environment Action Group builds community spirit Michael Nott

The Marlborough Environment Action Group (MEAG) was formed in November 2013. It came about following a Local Environment Action Plan (LEAP) training workshop for Marlborough residents which was held in conjunction with the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and the City of Harare. They have received support and assistance from

and other schools in an ongoing educational and awareness programme. The idea is to ‘catch them young’ and teach the children about the value and importance of wetlands. Hopefully the children will also share what they learn with their parents and with their peers, and when they grow up and become responsible citizens our wetlands will be well cared for.

Also present at the meeting were Innocent Chigandiwa, a young and enthusiastic member of MEAG who is always willing to help out and take part in the group activities, and Ronald Chirimuta, the vlei scout. Ronald’s activities include taking bird counts, observing and protecting the bio-diversity of the area and helping to prevent illegal dumping and cultivation.

But MEAG is not only about protecting the wetland. As Mr. Kahari pointed out they are also trying to build up a spirit of community co-operation among all the residents of Marlborough. They have organised clean ups at the Civic Centre, as well as cleaning and clearing illegal dumpsites (in particular the dumpsite along Cheam Road, Adylinn, Marlborough), cleaning up and beautifying the park at the Civic Centre and cutting the long grass on the verges, among other community projects. They are planning to soon introduce a programme of litter monitors to help keep the area clean, as well as informing residents about separating waste into different compostable and recyclable bins. They also send out fliers to residents informing them on relevant topics and encouraging participation in community affairs. Mr. Kahari also organises a kind of neighbourhood watch to help protect residents and their property and he has noticed a significant drop in crime rates in the area. They have also worked with other community based organisations (CBOs), particularly in high density areas, sharing their knowledge about environmental issues.

Among Mr. Kahari’s plans for the future are a recycling project which would help to inject some cash into the community, as well as providing skip bins for waste collection and promoting eco tourism and non- harmful recreational use of the vlei. MEAG is also fighting to protect the vlei from future development and proposed housing projects.

Wouldn’t it wonderful to see more community based organisations like this across the whole city?

To offer support or assistance or simply to find out more email informeag@gmail.com You can contact MEAG through the Marlborough District Office at 1 Elizabeth Windsor Road, or you can contact Mr. Kahari on 0771 961 596/77

Innocent Magunje from BLZ adressing the students

Arundel students returning from a walk in the vlei

It was pointed out that wetlands are the main source of the water supply for Harare.

the Conservation Society of Monavale (COSMO) and Birdlife Zimbabwe (BLZ). Together with COSMO and BLZ and the Eco Schools Programme for Mukuvisi Woodlands the commemoration for World Wetland Day 2014 was held on the Marlborough vlei. (This year the commemoration for schools was held on the Monavale Vlei.)

On Monday 16th this month I was privileged to meet up with Mr. Tendai Kahari, the secretary for MEAG, while Arundel School was holding an outing on the vlei for their Environment and Wildlife Club. Innocent Magunje from Birdlife Zimbabwe and Jimmy Marope, the conservation officer from COSMO, spoke to the young, budding environmentalists and ecologists about the role of wetlands and their importance.

It was pointed out that wetlands are the main source of the water supply for Harare. Most of the young ladies confirmed that they use borehole water at home and it was emphasised that wetlands are the source of this underground water. Marlborough vlei forms part of a chain of wetlands that include the Borrowdale vlei (currently under threat of development), Northwood vlei, Vainona vlei, Avonlea vlei and Ashbrittle vlei, all of which feed water into the Gwebi River and ultimately into Lake Manyame. The girls were informed about the role of wetlands in purifying water, flood alleviation and preventing soil erosion. Later they were taken on a guided tour through a small part of the wetland to witness for themselves the diversity of plant and animal life. Apart from providing a breeding ground for many migratory birds the vlei is also home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. Jimmy Marope from COSMO has seen duiker, bush pigs, serval cats, scrub hares and a number of other small species. Similar educational and informative talks and expeditions have already been held for Marlborough Primary and Marlborough High and outings are planned for Avonlea and Twin Rivers Schools,

Tendai Kahari talking to students

From left to right Jimmy Muropa, Innocent Chigandiwa, Ronald Chirimuta, Tendai Kahari and seated Innocent Magunje

32 THE STANDARD STYLE

March 22 to 28 2015