Style 21 02 14

The Standard

Style I SSUE 34

Photography by apurbo.com

decEMBER 21 to 27, 2014

Star Profile

Inside

Victor Kunonga

style@standard.co.zw

Zinhle Dube

2 THE STANDARD STYLE / CONTENTS The Standard

Style

December 21 to 27 2014

Contents P08

Woman & Man 3 Woman Profile

Zinhle Dube

5 Motivation

Cynthia Hakutangwi

7 Man Profile

Victor Kunonga

Home & Garden

P14

9 Home of the Week

Enter our competition

10 Trends

Walls

12 Garden

Garden Tips

Food & Drink 14 Restaurant Guide

Alo Alo

15 Wine

Lebbie

Family

P03

P07

19 Family of the Week

Chakamanga family

22 Education

Cover to Cover winners

24 Family Getaway

Zim Colour Run 2014

Arts 26 Breaking New Ground

Miss Earth

28 Bookworm

Oracles of the povo

29 Celeb News

P09

Multichoise launch

P19

To advertise in The Standard Style magazine please phone (04) 773930-8 Patience Mutimutema pmutimutema@alphamedia. co.zw Khalisto Manyanye kmanyanye@alphamedia.co.zw Nyasha Makovere nmakovere@alphamedia.co.zw

Season’s greetings to all you lovely Style people!

First things first, wow wow wow! I continue to be amazed and humbled at the milestones we have achieved from the very first issue we ran of our new baby, The Standard Style. It has been an amazing few months of a vibrant and refreshing approach to local and international news, and we are nothing but thrilled to have made it this far!

The prevailing economic and political environment has not been too favorable, as bleak after bleak news hits us in the face. But we hoped The Standard Style would be the refreshing little piece of news you all look forward to at the end of a tiring, straining week. And how right we were!

The Style has achieved so much in the past few months of its infant existence, it has proved that there really is so much positive energy flowing amongst us, and it has managed to inspire and push someone out there, to do better.

All the sections contained in it have and will, in the coming year, continue to aim to touch on and satisfy topics from different angles that hopefully leave everyone in a better place to kick of the next week with zeal and a positive mind.

In an aim to keep readers and advertisers motivated, the Style will continue to move in leaps and bounds, improving in content and outlook as it grows older and more confident. Watch this space! I have mentioned before that this 32-page package contains content ranging from issues to do with Mum and her home décor plans, Dad and his cars and gadgets, Grandpa and his concern for the environment, Grandma and her wonderful garden ideas, Auntie Carol and her recipes, Uncle Jeff and his insatiable thirst for the best places to eat from in town, and even little Tom and your little princess Anne and their wild imaginations, who can enter our yearly Cover to Cover Competition and get writing inspiration from the current winners. And guess what, it is only going to get better – what with all your unwavering support!

Over the months, every week we have been featuring some of the most beautiful gardens around, thanks to the various families who are taking so much good care of their gardens. We have also been blessed with the presence of various families from different backgrounds on our family page. These families have personified the values which The Standard upholds as values, and they have added the homely feel we aim to have within The Standard Style. In this special issue, as Christmas is upon us, we share with you our valued readers, what these beautiful families wish to say to you.

And just to add to their beautiful, warm messages, what I just want to say to you as you put the last Christmas decoration on your tree as the day dawns upon us and we remember our Lord Jesus Christ (whose party this really is!), is that I wish you the best of holidays, and I look forward to even more awesome times with you in the year ahead.

My warmest, Prudie – Style Desk

December 21 to 27 2014

Star Profile

THE STANDARD STYLE / WOMAN / PROFILE 3

Zinhle Dube

“I’m nothing without my roots….”

Prudence Muganiwah

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INHLE Dube, also known as Kim, is a 22-year-old beauty hailing from the City of Kings, Bulawayo, who kicked off her career as Miss Patse as a young child, was recently crowned Miss Heritage International Africa and Miss Heritage International Cultural Ambassador. Describing her passion as modelling, she says she started modelling at the tender age of 8.

“I have taken part in a lot of pageants, but my first pageant was in the year 2000 when I was in grade 4. Hailing from a family of 7 she is the 5th child who was bred in Zimbabwe but is currently based in South Africa. “I am a confident go getter, and I trust my ability to produce.”

The positive-minded Zinhle says while she prepares for the worst, she does all the work necessary to tilt the odds so that the best will happen. “I am modest, hardworking, eager to learn more and consistently growing. The young lady says she challenges herself by setting firm goals for herself. “Once I have defined benchmarks, I then take necessary steps to achieve those milestones. I am mature, candid and believe in integrity.”

Speaking of her recent crowning as Miss Heritage International at the pageant which was held in Nepal Asia from the 24th of November to the 5th of December, the Law student who is studying with Unisa says she feels nothing but humbled and honoured. “It was such a great privilege to be appointed to be the country’s representative. Miss Heritage International was amazing and different from other pageants in a way that we were mainly focusing on our heritage and culture and many pageants dwell on beauty and talent shows. Everything was done differently and I learnt a lot from other nations. I made sure I represented my country in a respective manner and shared with the world what Zimbabwe is really made of. From day 1 I knew I had to bring back home at least one crown.”

Zinhle absolutely loves being under the camera and says she always looks forward to every session. Advising on fashion, she says that it is important for both ladies and gentlemen to always look perfect and groom themselves.

A self-confessed fitness freak, Zinhle loves working out and eating healthy.

“I credit my good skin to eating healthy foods and working out – I spend most of my time at the gym. Modelling requires one to always look good and be healthy. Zinhle, an avid golf and bowling fan, is also into advertising, presenting and acting.

Speaking highly of Zimbabwe’s rich culture, she says its richness played a big role in her attaining her second title.

“Without our rich culture, I wouldn’t have made it to top 10, much less become Miss Cultural International. I aspire to change the world and its negative perspective about Zimbabwe and keep on promoting my culture and heritage because that’s what I’m made of. I’m nothing without my roots,” she says.

Her family has been quite the backbone in her budding career. “My family is very sup-

portive and my mom keeps pushing me; she says I have the power to change other people’s lives. Zinhle is also thankful to everyone else who has played a part in her achievement of her success, listing local top designer Joy Rusike of Uzuri Creations as one. “She sponsored me with my cultural and national dress, and I am eternally grateful for that.”

Mentioning Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and Joan Small as her favourite models, she says they inspire her as they are hardworking people who have worked for big brands and are passionate about modelling. Modelling has made her a better person, she says. “Modelling made me improve my social and communication skills, fashion sense, confidence and health as I now watch what I eat!”

Zinhle says in her field which is usually characterised by a lot of criticism and negative perceptions, it is right to have the right attitude. “If you walk like a million bucks, you’ll look like a million bucks—simple as that.” Having worked as a fashion consultant before, Zinhle says she is generally a down to earth person who is fashion conscious but not fussy about brands.

Advising other aspiring models, Miss Heritage International who also does fashion shows for Fumu Empowering Connection and photo shoots for various designers, says, “Do not under estimate yourself and never give up when you face rejection at auditions. You can be anything you want to be, the sky is the limit.”

With a law degree on her hands, the brains she has to develop and empower her fellow youth, and her amazingly beautiful looks, in Zinhle one can safely say we have ourselves a true Zimbabwean queen in the making.

4 THE STANDARD STYLE / WOMAN

THE WEDDING PLANNER

Rufaro Mushonga

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recently met with one of my couples, who are having their wedding this December. The bride asked me this question “how can I avoid being stressed from now until my wedding day?” Well, I normally find myself having to help clients to manage their stress levels when they are knee deep in quicksand, and sinking fast, simply because they haven’t taken my advice. You will experience a certain degree of stress, and this varies from couple to couple, depending on how well you understand and are prepared for the dynamics of wedding planning. My advice is always the same when I meet a couple for the first time. I quote the famous prayer, authored by Reinhold Niebuch, an American theologian: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Give yourself enough time to plan A lot of stress comes from not being ready for your big day. You suddenly realise that you have a week left, so much to do, not enough money left and no one to help. Give yourself enough time. Start at least one year in advance and pace yourself throughout the year. This is something that is within your control.

Get the little details done in advance Finalise on all your little details at least 2 months in advance, or earlier. Buy that Ring Cushion and Cake Knife, finalise your ceremony and reception programmes and get them printed in advance.

Make all Fundamental Decisions as a Couple What are the most important aspects of your wedding, as a couple? Normally, most of your fundamentals will be about your wedding service providers.

So make sure you choose the service providers that you want, meet with them, check their references, and secure them, before you rope in all your family and friends.

Delegate at the Right Time You will eventually have to involve family and friends. This is something that you cannot change, so accept it and make it work. It is important to advise key family members and friends of your plans, well in advance, out of respect for them. But if you start having wedding committee meetings 6 months before your wedding day, you will be stressed. Give informal updates to key people, and closer to the wedding day, call a meeting for the people that you have selected to assist you with all your wedding day logistics.

Rufaro Mushonga Wedding Planner rufmush@gmail.com Article Inspired by Archie Mhone

December 21 to 27 2014

Can Stress be avoided when planning your wedding?

THE STANDARD STYLE / INSPIRATION 5

December 21 to 27 2014

Nobody said it would be easy

The Gift of Self Embrace (Part 2) You deserve to have fulfilling relationships

Nyarai Chapingidza

Cynthia Hakutangwi

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elationships exist on various levels and are sensitive in their own unique ways because of the varying degrees of maintenance they require. Sometimes the most challenging relationships to maintain in our lives are the most vital because of their nature of connection to our very being.

In the first part of this series we established that faulty foundations in self-definition and issues of authentic personal identity can cause individuals to feel like they were in a prison. We also established that the temptation towards self-hatred is highly destructive and that self-embrace does not imply that we overlook our areas of weakness and settle for mediocrity but rather that we forgive ourselves in areas where we have failed, accept where we are and apply ourselves to be the best we can be using excellence as a standard. When we fail to value, love and embrace ourselves it becomes very difficult for us to embrace love from others.

Why do we need successful love relationships?

Though fulfilling love relationships make

people happy and healthy, they often fail to find or keep the love relationships they need. There has always been an excess of relationship advice on how to get or improve love relationships. The fact that every year greater numbers of people continue to need help with their love relationships shows that this most basic human desire continues to be beyond the reach of many people. Human beings are social creatures. We need one another not only for comfort and protection but for the joy that gives our lives meaning and purpose.

Love relationships sustain and support healthy bodies and healthy minds.

Why do we fail to find or keep love relationships?

Though good reasons abound for valuing and pursuing love relationships, there are also factors that make these relationships uncomfortable and unsafe. For many people, disappointment and discouragement has been a larger part of their love experience than happiness and fulfilment. Hurtful love relationships can contribute to a loss of health, hope, vitality and interest in life. Some of the most common reasons for failed love relationships include lack

of trust, fear of commitment, jealousy and possessiveness, inability to communicate needs, inability to support and understand another person and the inability to resolve conflict.

Knowing what is responsible for our failure in fulfilling love relationships can guide us in our journey of self discovery and self embrace. As a new year beckons us and we seek for a renewed purpose in our lives, re-energised direction, and revitalised energy we ought to dare to dream new dreams and set new goals starting with small, specific steps to find and embrace our authentic personal identity.

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

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any of us have dreams, goals and aspirations in life that we would like to fulfil and achieve but how many of us are willing to go through whatever it takes to reach these goals? This is where many of us go wrong. We have these big dreams for our lives but we don’t make room for the challenges that come with working towards our goals. Elizabeth Gilbert, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Eat, Pray, Love, says: pursuing your passion or working toward the thing you have asked for is not a day at the beach. It is not going to be easy. Instead, there will be extremes, many of which will make you question your entire purpose. Expect to be challenged, expect to be hurt, expect to feel lost, expect to feel despair, expect to be double-guessing yourself at every turn.

These words serve as a powerful reminder that it is okay to feel fear and doubt. You do not have to feel perfect and great all the time, to be sure that you are on the right path or are close to a breakthrough in your life. Perhaps it is the complete opposite of how you expected to feel.

You may have been expecting to feel happy yet you are stressed than ever. You may have been expecting people to applaud you for your little accomplishments, yet people are jealous of your success and cannot bring themselves to being happy for you. All this can be draining and can ultimately affect you and everything you have worked for.

It is important to know that regardless of what it is you want to achieve in life, most of the time it will not come easy and you will not always feel right inside but those experiences should not deter you from your journey. Keep going no matter how you feel. Make room for those challenges in advance and remind yourself that it is not a day at the beach, expect to be challenged.

The 8 Essential Rs for a New Beginning.. [Part III] Tafadzwa Zimunhu Taruvinga

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ur journey of The 8 Essential Rs ensues.

Your tasks for the past week were to slip away into a Review of your list of goals, as well as some Resource Auditing. We resolved that a review of ‘why’ you would pursue certain goals in the New Year would be necessary. Pertinent too, would be a look into the ‘how’ aspect – namely, whether there were adequate resources that would enable the pursuit of such goals. Next, you ought to Resolve Resolutely that you are going to pursue the listed goals in the New Year, as well as engage in a personal Retreat.

Resolving Resolutely The toughest part of a set of new resolutions is, in fact, the resolution. A resolution is a plan cast in stone which shouldn’t change as the weather and economic indicators dip and peak. These external factors should have a minimal impact on your resolutions. Your resolutions should be that defined and that defining too. The most difficult thing is that there will be a temptation to add new goals to the list, subtract some and modify others. But doing any of those three things would mean that you wouldn’t have resolved resolutely. A resolute resolution dictates that you will stick to your plan unwaveringly in the New Year.

That is the most difficult part of a resolution well-made. The first step of the resolution is to place your list of resolutions on a wall, follow it strictly, and not take it down for the year.

Retreating Sure, embrace the indulgences that come with the festive season of the time. Eat, drink, be merry, dance and be part of the crowds. Do these things knowing that for a day or two before the New Year dawns on you, you must make time for a personal retreat. Ideally, your retreat can be one in which you go away on your own or with your spouse, away from the kids and from friends and workmates, to a quiet place somewhere into the serenity and mists of Vumba or Qumbu. The purpose of a retreat is to enable you to bring mind and spirit together into a place where you are fully prepared for a tough year ahead.

Tafadzwa Taruvinga is the founding Management Consultant of Competus Customer Service Consulting (Pty) Ltd, which provides Customer Service Excellence Training and customer-centric IT Solutions. He is the author of “Serve Your Customers EXCELLENTLY, Or Not At All!”, as well as “In THIS Lifetime...You can live your dream”. Tafadzwa is a Member of the Advisory Council of the US-based organisation, Customer Value Creation International (CVCI). You can get in touch with Tafadzwa at tafadzwazt@gmail.com or visit his Facebook pages at www.facebook.com/tafadzwaztaruvinga and www.facebook.com/mazibhuku

6 THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN / GROOMING

December 21 to 27 2014

Trend forecast 2015 Marshall Malikula

70s nostalgia

Flower power

Black and White

2015 will see a fresh take on the 70s style, we will see the return of boot cut denim and psychedelic pops of colours like turquoise, yellow and red. Instead of pairing your floral shirt with black pants, why not try pale blue bell bottoms.

Do flowers in big, dainty or abstract print. The floral trend is not a preserve of ladies wear only as seen on the run ways. Men’s shirts, shirts and blazers were seen on the run ways. Do print on print, however, do vary print size for top and bottom.

Slouchy/Oversized trend While tailor fit is cleaner the slouch trend has taken over. This trend works with luxe fabrics which are flowier for a dramatic effect. Try oversized Trench coats, sweaters, shirts and parker jackets.

Suede Suede is big, will be seen in all shapes – trench coats, jackets and even trousers. Suede is coming in different variations from soft to rich and decadent suedes.

The monochrome black and white trend is still a big trend for 2015. This trend is very clean and elegant and most of all suits all skin tones.

White on White

Cropped tops

Sports luxe Rarely do sports and high fashion share similar aesthetics. The sports luxe trend is a fine mix between fashion and sports. This trend is characterised by high tech fabrics such as metallics and mesh. Popular silhouettes are vests, American football t shirts, Preppy college jackets, polo shirts synonymous with country clubs.

Gingham fabric The picnic table cloth pattern is more practical for shirts and summer shorts. Try it in black, baby blue and maybe red.

Mid riff baring tops have been gaining steam, as seen in men’s wear casual wear on the run way. It is very modern, rather edgy and certainly not for the faint hearted. That’s why this trend is best suited to young fashion.

Go clean with white all over. This trend is even more flattering on darker skins. In fact, it’s quite safe for all tones and shades.

THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN / PROFILE 7

December 21 to 27 2014

Star Profile:

Victor Kunonga

“I always say that I paint my music…”

Prudence Muganiwah

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ANY have attributed his trademark serious look completed with a hat and his guitar, to a shy man who is only willing to speak through his chilled, afro-jazzy music.

But there is lots more to the name Victor Kunonga.

Born in Wedza to parents who identified his artistic talents quickly, Victor counts himself fortunate as most parents in that era only focused on nurturing academic skills.

“I loved to draw and I could play drums (ngoma). I am an artist in so many ways; music, drawing, painting, fashion design, graphic designer amongst other things,” says the iconic jazz artist who is also a graduate from the Art School in Bulawayo.

He describes his childhood in a rural set up as the base for his traditional edge in music but, admitting that although he was too young to learn much, he fortunately remembers the rhythms that he now puts to good use today.

“Art is my passion. I love creations and indeed creativity builds everything around us. I always say that I paint my music.

I imagine each instrument as a brush stroke on canvas, applying colour and shade with each stroke. I see music as a picture, sometimes abstract but understood. I have designed some pieces of work that people may have seen around but not known who had done the work.”

Victor is also passionate about sport, and adds that he was fortunate to be exposed to a lot of sporting disciplines at school. “I was once Mr Bulawayo if that drives my point through. I would not have done badly as a soccer player either! It’s a trend I don’t really see being prioritized these days.”

Attributing his success to his friends being his Band Peace, as well as his family, the father to Piwai and Yanai says they are the driving force that lead him on. “I have to say that behind Victor Kunonga is a supportive family. I am married to Olga and we have a son and a daughter. My folks and all other relatives who have come to acknowledge that they have a musician amongst them extend that support.”

A lover of sadza, muriwo and meat, Victor is a simple fellow who enjoys routine fatherly tasks such as getting the kids ready for school every morning and then going to the gym. “My friends, in this case the band make Victor Kunonga tick. What I have realized is we are such good friends off stage, which makes us tick flawlessly on stage. The appreciation I receive from our fans as well, is so valuable and that keeps me inspired to do more for them always.”

The “Maidarirei” hitmaker believes that music is the greatest tool of communication, adding that he derives so much joy in being able to drive messages through melody, irrespective of whether people understand his language or not. I have been fortunate to meet people that I never dreamt I would meet - I was to honor to have one of the greatest International music icons, Hugh Masekela grace the launch of my newly launched CD Kwedu. These are dreams coming true.”

However, he does mention that the Industry is always dogged with challenges. “I struggled to make people believe in my music.

I realized that it takes time for some genres to sink with the listeners and patience always pays off.”

He also bemoans the obstacles that come with trying to produce an album that is of a high quality in these turbulent times.

“Raising enough resources to fund a project especially if the CD sales are not giving you enough returns because of piracy is a

mammoth task.”

As one of his songs says, “Shingirira mwanawe, shinga ah….(be strong my child, be strong), Victor has remained resolute in making a name for himself. “A lot of people initially doubted my capabilities but I am pleased to note that they now believe in me. I have managed to survive for 10 years on 4 albums, a feat that may be difficult for a lot of musicians in this ever-evolving world.”

Victor says one annoying comment he always gets is being asked if he does anything else besides music. “….which is an assumption that one cannot live on music alone!”

A goodwill ambassador for the global call to action against poverty and Hunger, Victor involves himself in community projects.

“Through the mentoring of my dear departed friend, Thomas Deve and my fellow musician and brother, pastor G, I have done concerts to mobilize people to be conscious of the millennium development goals in which Zimbabwe is a signatory to the Millennium declaration. Amongst the MDGs are the Eradication of poverty and hunger, combating HIV and Aids, Universal Primary Education, maternal health just to mention a few.”

With the Hatiite Project, Victor has managed to secure through The Culture Fund, over 50 sets of Mbira instruments that they donated to special schools through out Zimbabwe. Hatiite project, he explains, is a partner of the Special Schools Arts Festival founded

by Trust Mutekwa whose platform showcases the talents of our disabled children around Zimbabwe.

Victor confirms that he has no favourite song as he puts as much effort on all his songs and the favourite one is usually determined by his mood at the time.

A devoted fan to his music myself, I just had to ask Victor about “Uyo”, his curiously weird composition which he always performs complete with an equally interesting set of artistic dance moves.

A composition which is basically very hard to describe in words.

What is it, what does it mean to him?

And he confirms it himself. “Uyo is one of my most creative pieces from a listening point of view as well as visually on stage. As the name says, one has to see the performance and just say “Uyo’ Victor as we deliver on what I would term an abstract piece of music and dance.”

Inspired by great Zimbabwean bands he grew up on, he lists iconic groups and artists from the 80s such as The Pied Pipers, Bhundu Boys, Thomas Mapfumo, Robson Banda, Marshall Munhumumwe, James Chimombe, Susan Mapfumo, Simon and Naison Chimbetu, Oliver Mtukudzi just to mention a few.

“I am and will always be a fan of my late sister Chiwoniso Maraire whose pillar I believe was Adam Chisvo. That’s why I have dedicated my new Album to them.”

Victor hopes for a better future for the music industry, adding that he wishes intellectual property and Copyright laws whould be more respected in order to enable artists to realize fruits from their sweat. “The TV and radio stations should realize that their existence is due to entertainment and therefore the artist needs to be paid what is due to them. The artist in Zimbabwe will only be respected if they are able to make a decent living off their music if indeed what due to Caesar, is given unto Caesar.”

Imparting advice to younger generations who may want to take up music, Victor has these few words to say, “What is yours is known best by you. When you find yourself imitating someone then it is best known by the one you are imitating and you will never be best at it.”

8 THE STANDARD STYLE / MAN / WHEELS

December 21 to 27 2014

Rainy season driving tips

Nissan Clover Leaf Motors

Fact Jeke

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ith the festivities upon us, it’s important that we do the last minute checks before we embark on that road trip and also be careful as we drive this rainy season.

First stop is our tyres. Always check your tyres before you embark on a journey. Make sure you do the following routine maintenance: keep all tyres properly inflated. The correct air pressure for your tyres is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and can be found on the vehicle door edge, doorpost, and glove box door or fuel door. This is very crucial, every vehicle owner or driver has to be aware of this. The number listed on the side of the tyre is not the recommended air pressure for your tyre but the maximum air pressure for the tyre. You should check your tyres air pressure at least once a month. The tyre tread depth is also important and has to be checked on a

regular basis as well, proper tread depth will help prevent skids and aquaplaning.

As this is the rainy season, there is no need to behave like Lewis Hamilton on the track, watch your speed. As the rain falls, it mixes with grime and oil on the road creating slippery conditions perfect for skids. The best way to avoid skidding is to slow down. Driving at a slower pace allows more of the tyre tread to make contact with the road, which leads to better traction.

You need to keep your distance from the car ahead. Wet weather driving demands gentle use of all the main controls, your steering, clutch, brake and accelerator and a larger allowance for errors and emergencies.

All motorists should regularly check that their headlights, rear light, brake lights and

turn indicators are working properly. It takes about three times longer to brake on wet roads than on dry tar, so your brakes should be in good working order. As more distance is required to brake, it is important not to tailgate.

Keep more than two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.

If the rains become too heavy, stop. Heavy rains can overload the wiper blades allowing an almost continuous sheet of water to flow over the screen. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the safest time to drive.

Keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.

Turn on your headlights even when there is a light rain. It helps you to see the road and more importantly it helps other motorists to

see you. However don’t blast your high beams in the rain or fog, it will obscure your view further as the light will reflect back at you off the water droplets in the air. If your car is equipped with fog lights you may find it helpful to turn these on as they throw a little extra light on the road while making your car easier to see.

As rain quickly causes your windshield to fog up, switch on both front and rear defrosters if your car is equipped with those or just turn on your air-conditioning. This will help save your life and that of others.

Till next week Merry Christmas and be safe.

Additional Source: Nissan Clover Leaf Motors Email on missjeke@gmail.com

THE STANDARD STYLE

HOME & GARDEN Mrs De Kock Garden, Avondale

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

Specification: JPEG minimum size 2MB picture quality 300dpi

This week’s code: STDSTYHM34

10 THE STANDARD STYLE / HOME & GARDEN / TRENDS

Walls

PART

December 21 to 27 2014

2

Masonry walls –brick work adds depth and stateliness to a room – image: www.luxe.com Great walls make fabulous interiors. There are so many options available to any home owner, some of them are, painting, stencilling, masonry, wallpaper , glass, mirrors and murals.

These options can be applied to small focal points, cover full walls or complete rooms. Whichever way you choose to work your walls, always ensure the basic principles are considered.

Assess the functionality, theme, scheme and traffic for your rooms. Here are a few ways to make your walls exciting.

Stencils and Murals

Masonry Walls

Tiling

Stone and brick walls sometimes called “masonry” can give a building a stately but rustic, elegant timeless look, a farmhouse ambiance or an industrial feel. The key to achieving each look is through the use of different brick stains, finishes and varnishes. Outside of the aesthetic appeal they last longer, resistant to fire, rot and scratches. They are the best in terms of insulation as it stays cool in warmer climates. It saves you quite a lot in terms of paint as you won’t have to paint every so often. These masonry walls are good as mantel or fireplace features or when you want a feature wall.

Wall tiles have emerged as the best durable walling option for high traffic areas like the kitchen and the bathroom.

This is not to say that tiles cannot be used in other rooms.

With the advent of large tiles you can create a walling option in any room. Tiles can be in any format – leather, fabric, glass, mirror, stone, metallic finish, ceramic, wood, porcelain or engineered. They can be used as backsplashes in kitchen or bathrooms or back wall options for entertainment areas in the home. The size and design of your tiles help shape the ambiance of your room. Large format tiles will give an illusion of space especially when there is ample glass features in the room.

Wall Paper Wallpaper is versatile and always an innovative medium to use in your space. Wallpaper comes in a variety of styles, textures and finishes. Wall papers can be scented, magnetic and glow in the dark. The best wallpaper is one that comes pre-pasted.

You only have to wet it and install. Special attention needs to be given to pattern repeats and seams so that a seamless application is achieved. Wallpaper adheres easily and smoothly to clean primed walls, it adds warmth, depth and style to a room that simple paint cannot achieve.

Stencils and murals are a fun way to create interest and add character in a room. Murals can be painted on to the walls or can be in vinyl and need not be permanent. Stencils are more permanent in nature and require a lot of precision. This option is great for hallways and children’s rooms.

Wall paper is versatile and always updates a room. Image : www.sahomeowner.co.za

Take time out to assess your ideas to and plan your applications to create your own sanctuary.

Have a blessed festive season and best wishes for 2015.

Till then, live and love your home.

Credits: www.sahomeowner.co.za www.interiorpik.com www.urumix. com www.luxe.com Noma Ndlovu is an Interior Designer & Property Stylist. Feedback on unaminkosi@yahoo. co.uk. www.facebook.com/unamihomestyle +263775402083

Wall tiles add some stylish but muted elegance in any room. Image: www.interiorpik.com

December 21 to 27 2014

THE STANDARD STYLE / HOME & GARDEN /INSPIRATION 11

A Violet, Bronze, Brown & White Christmas Colour Scheme

eam

As far as Christmas tablescapes go, mix stuff from the seasonal aisles with others from housewares. Glittery snowflake ornaments have been used in place of napkin rings adding drama to an otherwise neutral table top.

winter interior. Don't be afraid to use your nd preferences . But keep it practical. This nter indulgences - chocolate, coffee and

biggest decisions you have to make when eature in the room. Creamy hot chocolate ing room. You can set off your living room ut. If your lounge suite is brown don't panic. ng interest to the space with highlights of es, such as leather, sheepskin, suede and ter.

Pinecones add a natural warmth to your colour scheme. Use them on your tree and to bring balance to the rest of your décor. This elegant window sill display is so simple to achieve.

matched. For a less dramatic but equally ving room. Go ahead and rescue those old em. Visit a professional frame shop to help up them together for impact on your wall. A n you photograph people in colour, you essence of a natural setting and goes past

Make sure the royal drama starts at your front door. This stunning wreath made from book page rosettes painted a deep violet purple is a unique handmade upcycled and eco friendly feature.

Spacework

a few more days till cream Christmas, if you haven’t already put up you offee withJust a spew of sweet to so cozy decorations, here is a daringly different colour scheme for you to try. This way youcombination accessorize yourbronze, space. of violet, brownFilled, and white is a great way to add manhing touchly for anyto room.

Add mood For proper balance, stick with appeal your home thismellow holiday season. brown and bronze as thecandles dominantinto colours, , set a collection of cream it with sprinkles of violet accents, and set it all against a white tree. ms in a similar colour from table runners to id lots of pattern , as these tend to always

Whether it’s a Christmas card for that special someone or as place cards on your table, carry your colours through to the details of you décor.

Continue the drama through your home with these DIY décor ideas to add to your royal and masculine Christmas look.

well. Use banding on cushions, pull out the

his week!

Not everything needs to be seasonal. When it comes to gift bags and gift wrap, try neutral solids mixed with matte and metallic sheens. Or you can layer different shades of the same colour, not only for your gifts, but as accents carried through your home. Here the seating area, features a grapetoned sock monkey along with an embroidered snowflake pillow to bring a little Christmas to the couch.

References Flynn, B. [Sa]. Fresh Christmas Colours: 12 Combos You’ve Never Tried. [O].

Available: http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/ color/fresh-christmas-colors-12-combos-youvenever-tried-pictures Accessed on 2014/11/28

Images [1] Source: HGTV. Image by Unknown [2] Source: Houzz. Image by Unknown [3] Source: Houzz. Image by Unknown [4] Source: Vintage Violet Style. Image by Unknown [5] Source: Anthology On Main. Image by Unknown [6] Source: Daen’Ys Creations. Image by Unknown

12 THE STANDARD STYLE / HOME & GARDEN / GARDEN

December 21 to 27 2014

December gardening tips General tasks and garden maintenance Carry on digging over beds and borders and incorporate as much organic matter as you can. Forking over not only helps prepare the soil for next year, it helps reduce pests by exposing them to hungry birds.

Protect pots and taps from frost by wrapping insulation around them. Bubble wrap is ideal and probably in plentiful supply if you are ordering Christmas presents over the internet!

Clear paths of moss and lichen, treat timber with preservative, repair fences, check sheds and walls (but avoid any concreting until there is no chance of frost), clean and insulate greenhouses (that bubble wrap again!) and ensure heaters are working properly. Even a little insulation will make a huge difference to your heating bill.

Clean and repair your garden tools and clock the lawn mower in for a service. New tools are always a welcome present, as are new garden-

ing gloves... especially good quality ones.

Clear debris - this is vital to prevent slugs and snails from setting up home in those lovely warm and damp conditions! However, a plea for wildlife... An artless pile of sticks and logs will make a wonderful ‘des res’ for hibernating hedgehogs and the like, so please don’t be too ferocious on the tidying front. Make leaf mould out of fallen leaves - they will rot down into fantastically fertile matter after a year (2 for oak leaves). Store wet leaves (they must be

wet to rot) in large black plastic sacks forked with holes or piled into a chicken wire container or similar. Failing that, add them to the compost heap.

Take care not to let leaves accumulate around alpines - they will die if left damp for long.

Cover bare patches around clumps with gritty compost to encourage regrowth. www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

THE STANDARD STYLE

FOOD & DRINK 1

(1,2) Eating Out, Alo Alo (3) Cakes by Sonia (4) Wine by Lebbie

In this issue of Food & Drink 2

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14 THE STANDARD STYLE / EATING OUT / ALO ALO

December 21 to 27 2014

Xmas event at Alo, Alo, Arundel Village Dusty Miller

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E are nothing, if not democratic, in the Greendale Good Food & Wine Appreciation Society.

Way back in September we began discussing which restaurant or hotel would have the dubious pleasure of hosting our august society’s Christmas lunch. Perhaps the pushiest member sold us firmly on the idea of Alo, Alo on December 12.

I certainly had no objection. The Arundel Village eatery had done us proud at Christmas 2013. And then at a mid-year luncheon after which one of our more venerable members, a retired Colonel, fell, cracked a hip, battled pneumonia and an acute lack of ready cash to pay for treatment in our caring society and has never been heard of or seen since!

It’s always good to see a much loved and respected restaurant through the eyes of someone new to the place. One member was on a debut visit and gushed endlessly about how much it was like eating in an elderly relative’s family home.

The place is popping at the seams with collectables, probably priceless antiques, shooting gallery junk, and revered personal possessions.

There were some major league boozy end-ofyear beanos in full swing when I arrived at 12:30; some were still bubbling as I left at 4pm-ish!

Alo, Alo’s package deal was US$20, which few can argue with in today’s inflationary Zimbabwe. One member (had he been there) would have almost screamed: “That’s more than R200!” proving his mental arithmetic lessons were not wasted, but not much more!

He should have been with me yesterday when entry level fish and chips (estuarine flathead) in an Adelaide Victorian-era pub which has seen much better days (and possibly very politically incorrectly rejoices in the name The Colonist!) cost A$21.

Atlantic salmon was the other fish of the day at A$26. A glass of the house SauvignonBlanc was A$6. A total of A$27 for lunch is now about US$24. When I was here two years ago it was almost US$30! (It’s not cheaper to live in the past!)

For our US$20, members had a choice between starters of fish and avocado cocktail, served elegantly in a tall angular glass with water crackers, or asparagus, Parmesan and rocket salad or the perfectly delicious chicken

1

liver pate on Melba toast I went for. The flavour was great, but texture-wise it was a wee bit too thin and runny for my taste. I prefer a big, course, butch peasant-like pate and if I get it the toast’s usually inadequate.

Turkey in general and de-boned rolled turkey, probably from Brazil, in particular is not my favourite food, but it’s Christmas and what do you expect?

It came with very acceptable vegetables, good gravy and cranberry sauce. (I drank lots of chilled cranberry juice in the hotel in Dubai on the way to Adelaide…it was really lekker!)

In good English pubs, nowadays, you very often get a big fluffy Yorkshire pudding or two with whichever roast meat(s) you order and, as a detribalised Yorkshireman, I really loved the thick gravy-filled one one served with my turkey at Alo, Alo. Arguably it went even better with roast rolled sirloin of beef and horseradish sauce.

But I dare not risk even the merest twinge of gout 24 hours before a 48-hour trek to the Antipodes!

It goes without saying one of my members went for the vegetarian option of courgette and feta ravioli topped with spicy Arrabiata sauce, but I’m sure it was yo-ho-ho good!

Christmas mince pies proved to be three attractive individual very rich, fruit-dripping tartlets, still steaming hot and coming with either custard (in my case) or ice-cream or there was decadent ice-cream with hot chocolate sauce, a meringue and a sugar stick.

Wherever you will eat Christmas dinner (or lunch), do enjoy it. Hope to be able to fill you in in 2015! dustymiller46@gmail.com 1. Fish and avocado cocktail with water crackers 2. Chicken liver pate with homemade Melba toast 3. Asparagus, Parmesan and rocket salad 4. Roast rolled sirloin of beef with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish sauce 5. Members of the Greendale Good Food & Wine appreciation Society at Alo, Alo 6. Deboned roast turkey with cranberry sauce and also Yorkshire pudding 7. Christmas mince pies came with custard (seen here) or ice-cream 8. Decadent ice-cream, chocolate sauce, a meringue and sugar stick.

All pictures by Dusty Miller

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December 21 to 27 2014

THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK / WINE 15

Signature “WINE” Around The World – A Festive celebration Lebbie Masavaya

A

signature is what makes an individual unique. It graphically distinguishes one person from another in a stylish way that only you yourself, as an individual can put to use, to set yourself apart from the next person. In a similar fashion, with of course, a “wine twist,” certain countries have what they call signature grape varieties, which in most cases, the grape concerned is unique to that particular country.

I love the idea of travelling to different wine destinations and having that opportunity to taste the wines from the grape variety that countries “boast” as being their signature.

This, in my opinion, has everything to do with uniqueness and of course, the fact that it’s a country’s very own cultivar. It’s not to be mistaken that, the grape is exclusively grown in that country. As a matter of fact, plantings may be found in other countries but only to a limited extent.

Pinotage, South Africa’s pride and signature varietal, is a red wine, which can be a single variety or blend. Found in an everyday, easy drinking style, to more serious, richly fla-

voured wines with potential ageing, this grape variety is worth your palate. Although not a personal favourite of mine, I haven’t given up the search of that Pinotage that will excite my palate. To the early Christmas shoppers, Food Lover’s Market in Greendale had a special on a Boland Kelder Magnum (1.5L) Cappuccino Pinotage, for US$8,19.

This season that we’re in high spirits over is a season that comes once a year. So why not mark it with a unique celebration. I am marking this season with Zinfandel, a grape variety America has adopted as its signature variety.

From a full-bodied style to a Late Harvest, this variety is characterised by a rich nose of wild black fruit and a complexity that brings balance and intense flavour.

Travelling on with our celebrations, Chile’s Carmenère grape, is its signature variety.

Though it isn’t the top variety, its uniqueness has given it this status. Its intensely seductive flavours of spice and chocolatey coffee, make it the ideal wine to add intricacy to blends.

Our last celebration this festive season is in North America, in Argentina and its signature cultivar, Malbec. Having had the opportu-

nity of tasting Argentinian wines, the smooth velvety palate of this variety is a marvel to swirl in the mouth.

Wine lovers, make your choice how you want to celebrate this festive season. Mark it with your special wine memories, memories that let you travel around the world. Here’s to this festive celebration with your preferred signature grape variety. Cheers to your chosen “signature” wine.

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

16 THE STANDARD STYLE / FOOD & DRINK

December 21 to 27 2014

by Rumbie - Zimbokitchen

Rosemary and Garlic Beef Fillet with Mushroom Sauce Creamy Chunky Mushroom Sauce

Servings~ 4.4-5 Cooking Time: 1 hr 10 min Seeing as the holiday season is upon us, there’s bound to be a lot of cooking going on in the kitchens. Lots of mouths will be expectant to have some really good food. Here’s an idea of one of the meals you can prepare. Your guests’ taste buds will be tickled to their delight.

Ingredients 500g beef fillet ½ tsp salt 1 tsp fresh rosemary/ 1/2 tsp dried rosemary ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp garlic, chopped finely 2 tbsp oil for frying

Ingredients ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

150g button mushrooms 150ml fresh cream ½ tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped 1 tbsp butter/ margarine/olive oil 1 tbsp plain flour 150ml fresh milk

Quick Instructions

Quick Instructions 1. Get your ingredients ready. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius on Grill-bake.

2. Put your rosemary, chopped garlic, freshly ground black pepper and salt in the wide plate. Mix it all up.

3. Roll your fillet in the herb-spice mixture, coating it evenly all around.

4. Heat oil in pot and add the seasoned fillet. Sear it on both sides.

5. Put the fillet in a casserole dish and cover it with foil paper.

6. Grill-bake for 50 min then remove the foil paper and let it cook uncovered for the remaining 20 min.

7. When the fillet is cooked, remove from oven and let it rest for 10 min (covered) before slicing it. This is so that the meat does not dry up inside and remains nice and juicy.

8. As the meat is resting, prepare your mushroom sauce.

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2.

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Gather your ingredients together. Melt the butter (or margarine suitable for making sauces) in a pot.

Add the garlic and basil. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the mushrooms and allow them to cook for about 5 min, stirring occasionally. Add the fresh cream.

Stir until the fresh cream is evenly incorporated.

Replace the lid and allow the fresh cream to gently simmer until it is reduced. The mushrooms should now also have a lovely golden brown colour to them!

Strain the excess oil now created from the fresh cream.

Mix flour and a little milk in a small bowl to make a paste.

Pour this paste into the pot with mushrooms. Add the rest of the milk and allow it to simmer gently for 10 min, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

www.zimbokitchen.com

Carrot Cake

by Sonia Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 1hour Ingredients: 4 eggs 2 cups white sugar 1 1/4 cup oil ¾ cup of Mazoe orange juice / orange juice 2 cups of self-raising flour 2 tea-spoons of cinnamon 1 tea-spoon of nutmeg 3 cups of grated carrots 1 cup of chopped pecan nuts ½ a cup of raisins 1 cup of drained pineapples 1 table-spoon of vanilla essence ¼ tea-spoon baking powder ¼ tea-spoon of bicarbonate soda ½ tea-spoon of salt Cream cheese filling: 4 cups icing sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup butter, softened 1.

2.

3.

Preheat oven to 175 degrees C. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking tin, alternatively you can use baking paper.

Using a mixer beat together in a large bowl: eggs, sugar, oil, table-spoon of vanilla essence until combined.

Sieve flour into bowl. Add baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, salt, cinnamon.

Stir in pineapple, raisins, carrots. Add

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juice. Mix until combined with wooden spoon.

Fold in pecans. Pour mixture into baking tin.

Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Use a knife and insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, cake is ready. If not cooked leave for additional ten minutes. Keep checking.

Let cake cool in pan for fifteen to twenty minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack so as to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Combine sieved icing sugar, butter, cream cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence in a bowl. Using a mixer, mix until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Frost the cooled cake with preferred decorating design.

December 21 to 27 2014

THE STANDARD STYLE 17

18 THE STANDARD STYLE

December 21 to 27 2014

My StationYour Station

THE STATION OTHER STATIONS LOVE TO LISTEN TO! ZiFM Stereo Board, CEO, Management and Staff wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

We thank you for your support throughout 2014 Here is to a great 2015.

Harare 106.4 Bulawayo 106.7 Mutare 95.4 Masvingo 96.1 Gweru 104.3 Victoria Falls 106.5 Beitbridge 101.6 Tsholotsho 97.9 Nyanga 98.2 Mutorashanga 97.6 Kadoma 105.2 Chimanimani 91.3 Chivhu 99.8 Kamativi & Hwange 105.1 Kariba 105.3

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THE STANDARD STYLE

FAMILY Mr & Mrs Chakamanga

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 / PARENTING

Weed- The potent drug Kudzanai EdsonChivandikwa

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EED, also known as Ganja/ Marijuana, is, according to research, the most commonly used illegal drug in South Africa and the world.

Research states that this drug is more potent nowadays than it used to be as a result of new growing techniques and selective use of seeds therefore, there has been an increase in the number of marijuana related crimes.

Short term effects of the drug Loss of coordination in senses of hearing and vision, reddening of the eyes, increased appetite and relaxed muscles. School performance is reduced due to impaired memory.

Long term effects of the drug Long term use can damage the lungs and the heart, cause coughing and wheezing and reduce the body’s ability to fight lung infections and illness.

Don’t be a victim, Know whats right and wrong and don’t end up smoking at school!  (Kudzanai is a Peterhouse student who is passionate about education and giving children a voice.)

December 21 to 27 2014

LILIAN MASITERA

masiteral@yahoo.com 0772 924 796 Rise above, Take flight & Move on!

December 21 to 27 2014

THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / EDUCATION 21

MEET THE WINNERS

Usave Saskam,

verenga udzore pfungwa

Ranganai Jacqueline Mushiri Kuwadzana High School, Harare Form 5 & 6

Second runner The Chimurenga revolutionary songs saturated the atmosphere.

The posters carrying similar messages swam in the air – the common message was ‘OUR LAND OUR SOVEREIGNTY, FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL.’ Brightly coloured t-shirts supplemented in spreading the gospel. The colours resembled our national flag – our pride.

Starring at the poster written “FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL”, it took me back to life in my village. Our village is a small one, located near a kopje. It appears very small in size but it carries a mass of people. In Tanda educated people are very rare to spot, not because the people are ignorant or they despise, but it is very expensive to get. The schools are cursed with very few teachers – unqualified, because the government and the council literally ignored the issue of accommodation at the schools.

I was lucky that my mother

It was the biggest gathering had been able to educate me up to Advanced level on a teacher’s salary. The problem came when I was about to acquire tertiary education. The pressure was too much for my mother, she could not afford to pay my college fees.

“Things are no longer well with me my daughter.” she started, “I am very happy that you passed your exams, but the thing is – I cannot afford sending you to college or university.” she continued. “But why amai?”

I asked with a shaky voice, “you don’t understand Tambu…taking university means that your sisters no longer go to school.” she responded. I was so deeply moved by her words, I regretted having A’Level “What about the time I wasted studying A’Level…so …I …I can’t event study a six month course?” I asked tears trickling down my face; “You don’t understand, do you?” I was not able to answer that one; “Your sister is sitting

for her O’Level exams this year.

Where will I get the money? At least you have O and A Level certificates, you can look for a job and pay for your fees?” she added. “Amai, you know what life is like these days, where will I find a job without a degree or a diploma? Even if I get one, what job will that be?” I protested.

Zimbabwe, today had become a very difficult place to hunt for a job except for the most unwanted jobs, being a domestic, selling clothes or maybe, a bus conductor.

Most of the girls in our village have left the township to look for jobs as domestic workers. Amai wanted me to be one of them. One of mother’s friends suggested that I should apply for a scholarship and we thought it was a good idea.

Things were very difficult for mother to manage, the government had denied them incentives aggravating the situation

at home.

After my father’s death, life had not been easy for us. Chido my classmate had already applied to study law at the University of Zimbabwe. The only crime I commited was to be born a teacher’s child. After a day of heart breaking conversation, my mother took me to Harare where I was going to apply for a scholarship while at the same time looking for a ‘piece’ job. My aunt in Kuwadzana accommodated me. I was exposed to town life which fascinated me. During my stay I also discovered that there were children who spent most of their time in the streets and not in school.

I figured out that the problem which is afflicting our village is also eminent there.

“The government should do something about it,” she said. She actually took me by surprise. I was speechless for a while before I digested her

Alvin Chitema

St Columbus High School Form 5 & 6

Second runner The sun rose in the beautiful crimson sky. It was greeted by the invisible but somewhat tangible feeling of excitement which had gripped the streets of Kamavisu, the beautiful capital of Jeka. The fervor which was propagating was venial, since the Republic of Jeka had never before witnessed such a wonderful spectacle. The rather chilly weather from the previous day had disappeared into a rather sunny and fine weather. It was, without a glimmer of doubt, a day destined for the history books.

Before the rooster had crowed, the streets of the capital were buzzing with activity. The media had been going on and on about this day, fuelling the already insurmountable excitement.

It was the third of July, the day of the inauguration if the new President. People could be seen jostling at bus stations and at bus pick-up points, trying to board buses. On that day, all roads led to the Beto Arena, which was the venue of the historical inauguration. The Beto Arena was located in the North West of the Capital.

A total of about 250 000 people were expected to attend the gathering, 80 000 more than the official capacity of the arena. As a result, six gargantuan tents had to be set up outside the arena to allow the overflow to take part in the proceedings. The tents were accompanied by twelve giant screens, two in each, to give onlookers visual access to what was happening inside the stadium.

Because of the nature of the day, the streets were embellished

It was the biggest gathering with national colours. The colour yellow could be seen everywhere from lamp signs to street pavements. Vehicles on the streets were neatly wrapped in Jeka flags, inauguration posters and all sorts of lustrous gimmicks.

People wore all bright yellow clothing and carried with them the national flag. Some could be seen carrying drums, flutes, whistles and trumpets, with an obvious intent to celebrate. The jovial mood of the citizens of Jeka was explosive. “Rise, Jeka, rise!!” is what read a clamant banner, one of many banners and posters which hung from the city office buildings and apartment windows. Throughout the day, the city was a hive of activity.

This was much to the delight of shop owners and sales persons, the evidence to that being their perpetual grins. Shopping malls restaurants and banks were replete with carefree consumers.

Souvenir stands were present at every corner and zealous young lads who owned them could be seen selling flags, posters, hats, and t-shirts to passersby. For the people of Jeka, the third of July was more than just the day of a Presidential inauguration, but a day symbolizing their freedom from dictatorial oppression which lasted over forty three years. Jeka had been through a civil war, economic meltdown, strikes, human rights abuses, protests and many other political evils. The defeat of Digatsu was a milestone worth celebrating, a fact clearly corroborated by the state of Kamavisu on the day.

Moving to Beto Arena, through the war torn roads and antebellum buildings, the number of people on the streets increased exponentially. All bicycles, scooters, cars, taxis, buses and trucks could be seen lurching down the congested Steven Abiko Road, a road which leads straight to Beto Arena. The noise from the vehicle engines and the wittering multitude was deafening. From a birds’ eye view, all one could see was a sea, a sea of bright yellow, as if a million yellow ants were on the move. A temporary dark cloud of smoke gripped the atmosphere of the capital, mostly due to the number of cars in the city on the day.

Most of the vehicles, especially the buses from the rural areas, were old and spewed out thick smoke from their exhausts as they tardily moved along. Along the road groups of people were singing and dancing around.

Boom boxes and portable radios became a regular sight. People danced to all sorts of music, from the traditional yet vibrant sounds of Peter Chilombo to the more modern and hip grooves of young artists like the popular Chilli Flavour. Further down the road, the monumental Beto Arena slowly began to appear on the horizon. This arena miraculously survived the dreadful war which ravaged most of the infrastructure in Jeka. It had a rigid steel structure which was white in colour. Four huge flood lights extended out from the stadium. It had glass panels at the top hence it shimmered under the moon-

light. Its distinct dome-shaped and glistening nature, now coupled with the burnishing decorations made it the place to be on that day. The outside of the arena had been draped in yellow cloths and national flags. All the stadium lamps and bulbs had been changed to yellow ones, creating a rather patriotic aura.

The car park North-West of the arena was full to the brim as more vehicles kept on arriving.

People resorted to parking their vehicles in an empty field one mile away from the arena. Bus drop off points around the stadium were buzzing with activity as hundreds of antiquated buses struggled to drop off passengers.

An hour before dusk, the stadium was already full and people were now being marshaled into six tents flanking the arena by the didactic police officers. 3000 police officers had been deployed in and around the arena to maintain order. The police officers wore a distinct black police caps, light blue shirts, black ties, black trousers or skirts and blatant silver police badges resembling a medieval crest. On that day, they had special yellow reflector jackets so that they could be easily identified. The police officers stood still like lifeless walls, most of whom had uninviting smirks on their faces. They watched every inch of observable space like hawks on the lookout, undeterred by the controlled chaos prevailing in and around the arena. An astounding 273 000 people pitched up at the arena. A further 100 000 remained in the city to

sentiments. “I am talking about these children, who spent most of their time selling vegetables and sniffing drugs. They cannot go to school because their parents cannot afford it.” My pulse ticked a bit faster as I realized that I was not the only observer.

In the middle of my thoughts, I heard cries of people, that is when I realized that I was still in the stadium. A man vigorously pushed me, I later discovered that he was a policeman. He was trying to create order as the president was advancing. I felt hurt when the police officer searched us, touching me all over my body in the pretence to protect the President.

We struggled to look for a seat, where we could witness the whole event. Before he sat down, we all sang the national anthem in three languagesShona, Ndebele and English.

After the marvelous singing the master of ceremony invited the President to the Podium. He opened his speech with a slogan, “Pamberi nekubatana!” “Pamberi” Millions of people chanted back as if they had rehearsed it.

T-shirts were distributed while we were sitting and food also. In his speech, the President took us back to the history of Zimbabwe, how the indigenous people resisted white imperialism or the British colonial rule. He also

spoke about the brutality of the Smith Regime and praised the fighters of the first Chimurenga. He also narrated his own story about how he suffered during the liberation struggle. As he gave the speech, the stadium was as quiet as a graveyard, people only applauded when he said something that gave them joy.

He then leapt forward to the present day Zimbabwe, where he addressed the new reforms in the government, the ZimAsset, youth empowerment movement.

The President, also talked about education, he explained the importance of education and also the consequences of not sending a child to school. He also addressed the issue of FREE EDUCATION especially to the most undeveloped parts of Zimbabwe.

It was a long interesting speech, as the issue of education was addressed thus making me enjoy the gathering even more. After his speech, we all applauded and entertainment began. It seemed as if it was the beginning of the gathering.

Several musicians were present that day, Jah Prayzah, Alick Macheso, Vabati VaJehova, the Born Free Crew and others. I was thrilled by Jah Prayzah’s performance, he was one of my favourite local musicians and I had never seen him on stage. He was the man of the moment as

the people demanded him back on stage. I was in seventh heaven, as I sang along and danced.

Everyone was in a jovial mood, celebrating together as one. In my life I had never attended such an enormous gathering with excited faces. People sang revolutionary songs led by Cde Chinx and the Born Free Crew. Late that day we saw an exciting soccer match between the Zimbabwean Warriors and Botswana, who were fighting for the independence trophy. Fortunately, the Zimbabwean Warriors won and we shouted with joy, praising female players. At the end of the soccer match we left the stadium to head for Kuwadzana where darkness was ruling without electricity, to scare it away.

Until now the events that took place at the gathering keep glued in my mind. I was happy that I was not the only one concerned about education, even the President himself cares. I went back home - in my village waiting for the scholarship as I failed to find a job. I told everyone about the gathering and they were accommodative to share my world - it was the gathering that changed my view on many things - the biggest gathering I had and will ever attend but wish to attend in future.

watch proceeding on television.

Most of these people were inside halls, clubs and other small venues set up to allow the citizens of the country to watch the proceedings together. Additionally, eighteen giant screens had been up strategically in the streets of Kamavisu to allow people to watch and celebrate while outdoors.

Inside the arena was a stage which stood three meters high.

Like the rest of the stadium, it was bright yellow with various patriotic markings, lined with roses and daises. A mural of the map of Jeka could be seen on the wall behind the stage. To the left of the stage was a majestic golden tent where important guests were housed. Present were heads of state from all over the globe, including African heads of state who had come to witness the inauguration of the soon to be fellow African President. Business persons, religious leaders, politicians, administrators and other esteemed personages were among the 700 people in the VIP tent, which was heavily guarded by men in black suits. All the seats in the stadium were occupied, and their overjoyed occupants barely sat on them as they were too busy dancing on their exhausted feet. They held up banners, flags and posters, to show their unassailable support for the soon to be President. People of all ages were present from babies on their mothers’ backs to the very elderly balancing on their canes.

The glaring floodlights lit up the arena, creating a tinge of gold crimson under the moonlight.

The balloons inside the arena were myriad. Hundreds of them could be seen drifting in the air whilst most were tied on poles.

They too, like everything else, were bright yellow in colour.

Beautiful flowers and banners rounded up the appreciable efforts to aggrandize the arena.

The unsettled crowd sang jubilantly, dancing to the music being played on The Constitutional

Court judge was clad in a black suite and an aesthetic red court gown. He wore a rather comic off white barrister’s wig on his head, which amused some of the children in the arena. Honorable Utete stood next to the pristine gold-coloured podium clutching a Bible, ready and waiting for the arrival of the Presidential Elect.

The digital clocks on the giant screens now read seven o’clock.

The entire crowd was now unsettled waiting patiently, with some people beginning to bite their nails rather superfluously.

Momentarily, a convoy of six black Escalade SUVs entered the stadium and parked adjacent to the stage, sending the entire crowd into a state of wild bellowing and delirium. The passengers disembarked from the armoured vehicles and hastily made their way the stage. Then suddenly, the President Elect, his wife and three children, all of whom had been inside the vehicles, appeared, heavily guarded by the Jeke Secret Service agents. The security around the arena was airtight and men in black suites could be seen moving around scouring for any potential threat.

At this moment all the attention was on the Presidential Elect.

This paragon, answering to the name of James Choza, standing six feet tall with a very robust body. He had a long and slim face with very small ears. His eyes glowed white, with visible brown irises. His lips were slim and his beard was clean shaven. He had dark curly hair and fairly light skin. His height and large build gave him a more authoritative look, an attribute suitable for the line of work he was momentarily about to venture into. He wore a black suit, a white shirt and black shoes. He had on, eye-catching cufflinks and a yellow tie, in solidarity with the theme of the day. His wife, Susan wore a stunning ankle length black dress, black heels and glowing golden earrings. Her beautiful outfit

complemented her radiant hair and bright face which was clearly overwhelmed with joy and excitement. James Choza took a deep breath and strutted across the stage to the podium to commence the inauguration.

It was a highly emotional moment as James Choza placed his right hand on the Bible and swore the oath. Some people in the crowd began to cry due to the overwhelming effect of the historic event which was unfolding before them.

When Jumanji Utete declared James Choza the new President of Jeka, there was a loud defeaning roar which was heard throughout Kamavisu. A beautiful display of golden fireworks followed immediately as tonnes of brightly coloured confetti rained down the stadium. The Jeka Air Force performed a ceremonial Fighter Jet Fly- Past. People could not contain themselves as they jumped up and down, cheering, dancing, singing and ululating. They knew that this was the beginning of something wonderful for their country and were evermore thankful to God for that.

“The time for dogmatic leadership is over! It is now time for Jeka to rise and prosper. By virtue of this inauguration, our past is now null and void, but our future is now in our hands”, said the idyllic and charismatic leader, as he gave his inaugural speech.

His speech was very eclectic and actuating, making it easy for one to juxtapose him and Digatsu and see the true practical definition of a principled and selfless leader.

James’ intelligence, proficiency and wit had earned him the majority of the votes of the people of Jeka, making him the first democratically elected leader of the nation. The inauguration of James Choza, which attracted more than 370 000 people to the capital, was the biggest gathering in the history of Jeka and surely one that will be remembered for time immemorial.

22 THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / HEALTH

Ocular emergencies

December 21 to 27 2014

Oesophageal cancer

Lynet E Masiwa As the holiday season is well under way, we or our loved ones may find ourselves in a spot of bother due to eye related problems. Today I will give a brief first aid guide on how to tend to eye problem

Foreign objects: Should you get any chemicals or material fragments into your eye, the first thing you should do is wash it out with clean cool water for a long time. Please do not use salty water or milk or any other concoctions – clean water is sufficient. In the case of plant extracts or toxic chemicals, you need to wash out your eye for at 20-30minutes then proceed to your nearest clinic.

Dr Kudzayi Munanzvi

Blunt trauma: Should you experience a blow to your eye, be it in an accident or altercation and you lose vision in that eye or some eye contents are oozing out -- cover the eye with a plastic or paper cup and proceed to the nearest clinic. If your vision is not affected but your eye is swollen or in pain, apply minimum pressure with a cold ice pack and proceed to your nearest clinic.

Sudden loss of vision: This is particularly worrisome in hypertensive and diabetic patients and it is of great importance that this patient is seen by an eye care practitioner as soon as possible.

Broken spectacles: You are welcome to attend to the nearest optometrist for a new pair, but expect some delays as most labs close for Christmas.

Here is hoping you won’t need to apply any of this knowledge during this festive season. Wishing you happy and safe holidays!

By Lynett E Masiwa FAOI Optometrist BSc Hons. Optometry (Ireland)

THE recent passing on of renowned actress Pretty Xaba cast a dark cloud over the entertainment industry in Zimbabwe. It also led to a barrage of questions about the disease.

The oesophagus is a tubular structure that connects the mouth to the stomach. oesophageal cancer is a RARE type of cancer that affects mainly people over the age of 55.

The incidence has been rising. there are two main types : 1. adenocarcinoma which arises from mucus glands in the oesophagus 2. squamous cell carcinoma, which is more common in SubSaharan Africa The cause is unknown but there are a number of risk factors such as age, male, high fat diet, obesity, smoking, alcohol especially spirits, long standing acid reflux from the stomach and drinking very hot black tea.

Main symptoms include loss of weight, difficulty swallowing, vomiting or regurgitation of feeds, pain on swallowing, vomitting blood, coughing when swallowing and hoarse voice. diagnosis is made by

history and examination. the doctor will then recommend endoscopic examination of the oesophagus. endoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible fibreoptic telescope is passed into the oesophagus through the mouth. it is done under sedation and takes between thirty minutes to one hour. a small sample of tissue (biopsy) is taken and sent to a pathologist for examination under a microscope. other tests help in assessing the extent of spread of the cancer. these include ultrasound scan and CT scan.

Treatment options for oesophageal cancer include surgery, which is done locally by cardiothoracic and general surgeons, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy. Choice of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer. in most cases cure is impossible because the diagnosis is made when the cancer is advanced. prevention is possible by making lifestyle changes and regular visits to your doctor to aid in early detection. till next week, stay healthy!

Dr Kudzayi Munanzvi Paediatric Surgery Resident, Harare Central Hospital

THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / HEALTH 23

December 21 to 27 2014

Acute appendicitis

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he appendix is a worm-like structure attached to the first part of the large intestine with no known function in humans. Appendicitis occurs commonly in people between the ages of 15 and 30. The most frequent cause is blockage by feaces, parasites or cancer. This blockage results in increased pressure in the appendix and decreased blood flow to the appendix. Bacteria begin multiplying and the resultant inflammation can result in the appendix bursting, releasing bacteria into the abdominal cavity.

When this happens, pain increases sharply and septicaemia occurs which, if left untreated, can result in death.

The first symptoms of appendicitis are nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain which starts around the umbilical area before migrating to the right lower part of the abdomen. As the condition progresses other symptoms such as fever, swelling of the abdomen, occur. Appendicitis is a surgical emergency and requires prompt treatment.

There are many conditions that can mimic the signs and symptoms of appendicitis.

Therefore, your doctor will conduct a number of investigations to aid in the diagnosis. A blood sample is taken can show a raised white cell count. Ultrasound scan is useful particularly in children whereas CT scan is largely used for diagnosis in adults. A pregnancy test can exclude an ectopic pregnancy in women and urinalysis is also useful to rule out a urinary tract infection. However, there is no single test that exists that can make a diagnosis of appendicitis. Your doctor will make a decision based on all the available information.

Treatment includes intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids and a urinary cath-

eter to monitor urine output. Surgery is performed as soon as possible. Laparoscopic surgery, also known as key-hole surgery is a preferable option as it is done through three small cuts in the abdomen no larger than 1.5 cm each. A camera is introduced through the umbilicus and allows the surgeon to visualise the entire abdominal cavity while removing the appendix. Laparoscopy is readily available in Zimbabwe and is the first option for surgery in children at Harare Hospital.

Its advantages include a smaller scar and shorter recovery period. However, in some cases Laparoscopy is not possible. These cases are done by making a much larger incision in the abdomen to localise and remove the appendix.

Appendicitis is a life-threatening but treatable condition. Early diagnosis and surgery is essential.

Till next week, stay healthy.

St Michael’s 24 Hour Accident Emergency & Maternity Clinic (19709 Unit N Shopping Centre Seke Chitungwiza) All times Emergency numbers: 0774 125142, 0734 503518

24 THE STANDARD STYLE / FAMILY / GETAWAY

December 21 to 27 2014

Rosie Mitchell

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HE world’s first Colour Run took place in 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. Utah resident Travis Snyder dreamed up this fun idea to encourage seasoned runners and novices alike of all ages to walk and run together purely for fun, in a festive community event, which also donated to charity. Since then, the Colour Run concept has become a global phenomenon. This year the official global Colour Run brand took the event to more than 300 locations in over 50 countries. The initial Phoenix event drew around 6 000 participants, as did the first Zimbabwe Colour Run last year.

More than 600 000 participants in over 50 cities in the US enjoyed Colour Runs in 2012. This rose to over one million in 2013 in more than 130 cities in the USA, South America, Europe, Australia, Asia and southern Africa.

The idea clearly appeals to the child in all of us, and following the great success of last year’s inaugural edition at Borrowdale Race Course, over 8 000 people turned out for this year’s Zimbabwe Colour Run on December 6, proving the power of good publicity and word of mouth. Last year’s edition was the talk of the town for months to follow! The event was very well advertised via multiple media, and Early Bird discounts ensured healthy advance ticket sales. Plenty turned up on the day too.

The Zimbabwe Colour Run, like the global Colour Run brand, is a commercial venture, and must have felt like a risky gamble last year. But with confidence based on the foundation of the inaugural event’s success, the organisers went ahead again, and must have been delighted by the phenomenal response this year. Inhibitions vanish at this wonderful event and everyone from tiny tots to grandparents become immersed both in the carnival atmosphere, and in colour! The vibrant colours themselves reside in harmless corn starch powder which is hurled at participants as they walk or run. It washes out with amazing ease afterwards. Most, ourselves included, were covered in colour before the event even started! A crowd of that size across all age groups, and all in one place simply to have unbridled fun, creates a tremendously festive, friendly atmosphere. You just have to experience it to understand just how amazing it really is.

White Colour Run branded T-shirts were part of the package which came with the entrance fee, along with various giveaways and samples. Almost all participants wore them, and soon showed off the multi-colours with which they were showered! Most walked the 4+km course rather than ran it, enjoying the social element, being covered in colour along the way at each sponsor’s stand, and soaking up the experience and happy, friendly atmosphere. I and a sprinkling of others ran it, and enjoyed it, though not too fast, as the Europcar 20 Miler was at 6am the very next day! The absence of water points was the only downside – it was a very hot day and the run began at midday. Free water is a given for an organised running event, so I hope the organisers address this next year. I was seriously parched by the end and was not carrying any cash to buy the sparse fizzy drinks being sold en route; there is no expectation of having to pay for drink in any running event. Nonetheless, it was all very festive and fun!

After the event, there were lots of stands to visit, food and drink to buy (the latter, albeit, only via a cumbersome ticket system, whether soft or alcoholic; rather impractical, especially as dehydrated as many were due to lack of water points when they finished), varied live music, parachutists soaring down from the sky and lots of activity and sociability which went on till after midnight, with international DJs. The Zimbabwe Colour Run is a commercial venture with additional support from multiple sponsors who gain advertising mileage.

However, like Colour Runs worldwide, it donates some proceeds to selected charities, one of which was again the Emerald Hill School

Festive Zimbabwe Colour Run 2014 attracts over 8 000

Pictures by Tinashe Chapepuka for the Deaf. Pleasingly, this year’s new beneficiary was one close to my heart, the Animal and Wildlife Area Research and Rehabilitation (AWARE) Trust, which was created and is run by vets Lisa Marabini and Keith Dutlow.

AWARE conducts a range of environmental projects, all of which aim to conserve wildlife and its habitats. These include sterilisation and vaccination campaigns for domestic animals living in rural areas which border wildlife areas, concurrently benefitting the ani-

mals, their owners and the adjacent wildlife, preventing the spread of dangerous diseases between these areas. AWARE also constantly fundraises for the significant costs of rhino de-horning as an anti-poaching strategy, and works in partnership with National Parks to carry out de-horning. It also rescues and rehabilitates wildlife injured or orphaned through human activity, and carries out wildlife research. AWARE had a stand at the Colour Run which attracted lots of interest, and

the very talented Tinashe Makura once again donated his time for free, performing at the Run, as he did at the recent Rhino AWAREness Day fundraising event. AWARE was delighted to receive the news this week that the Zimbabwe Colour Run will purchase, for the continuance of its excellent environmental work, a portable Ultra Sound Machine, a very costly and invaluable piece of equipment which will greatly assist the AWARE vets in all of their projects.

THE STANDARD STYLE

ARTS & CULTURE

1 In this issue of Arts & Culture

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2 (1) Breaking New Ground (2) Stimulus Women Network (3) Paddington Bear Premiere (4) Bookworm

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26 THE STANDARD STYLE /COMMUNITY/ BREAKING NEW GROUND

Miss Earth Zimbabwe re-engineers the idea of beauty pageants Patricia Mabviko-Musanhu Mabviko-Musanhu Patricia

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or a long time, the idea of beauty pageants was about searching for the most beautiful woman in terms of their physical appearance and beauty. However, over the years organisers of beauty contests evolved to include as part of the competition, intellectual ability, talent as well as an assessment of a candidate’s personality and character among other things.

Sandiswe Chikomborero Bhule is one of Zimbabwe’s reigning beauty queens, who recently returned from the Philippines, where she represented the country in the Miss Earth competition alongside 84 contestants from different parts of the world. Sandisiwe did fairly well for the country as she brought home two medals; a gold medal for Miss Friendship and a bronze medal for Best Teacher. One of the groups she was part of, the Africa group which was represented by

15 African countries also won gold for the best presentation on the environment. I was fascinated when she told me about the Miss Earth beauty pageant. What I found most refreshing about the idea of Miss Earth in general was the focus of the competition and the things which the contestants had to do in order to qualify for the title. Most of these had nothing to do with physical beauty!

To enter the competition, the organiser Thandekile Muringa and her team were looking for candidates who displayed a good understanding of the environment. The task that lay ahead for the 15 finalists who took part in the competition was to draft a proposed document outlining projects they were going to undertake over a six week period to try and mitigate some of the environmental challenges in our communities.

“My project was titled ‘Environment Matters’ and my aim was to engage with people physically and well as on social media to educate them on the importance of preserving the environment,” said Sandisiwe. As part of her community projects, Sandisiwe proposed to work with schools. She initiated the formation of an environment club at Kuwadzana Primary School where she met once a week with over 30 pupils for the duration of the six weeks. Her objective was to teach the club members some of the things they could do practically to try and lessen damage to the environment. One of the challenges Sandisiwe identified was plastic littering. Plastic is one of the most dangerous forms of litter as it is not biodegradable. Sandisiwe asked each one of the pupils to bring an old T-shirt from home and helped them to make a shopping bag out of the T-shirt. This exercise was a demonstration to the children that they had capacity to make a positive contribution to preserving the environment by encouraging their mothers to use shopping bags instead of a plastic bag the next time they went shopping. Alongside this, Sandisiwe launched a plastic free October month on social media and also conducted a community dialogue in Kuwadzana. The projects which the candidates implemented were

assessed weekly and medals were awarded to those who did well on a weekly basis. The Miss Earth Zimbabwe competition culminated into a beauty contest on the evening of September 13 2014 in Bulawayo. “I had been very passionate as far as my projects were concerned and in terms of our weekly assessments, I had won quite a number of medals.

However, my height is the bare minimum required in modelling and there were taller and more beautiful girls than me, by far!” said Sandisiwe. When her name was announced as one of the seven finalists, she was very happy to have gone that far. “I got a shock when my name was called again as one of the four finalists. Judging from the other girls who had been called as well, I concluded that this was the furthest I had gone and I was very proud of myself for having come that far,” she added. As the announcer was concluding the event and getting ready to announce the winner, Sandisiwe was busy scanning through the

December 21 to 27 2014

audience to try and locate her family members so she could walk to them soon after the event and head home. “That was when I heard my name being called out as the winner and I went completely numb!” she said.

Sandisiwe believes that it was the strength of her environmental projects as well as the passion she displayed in executing the activities that gave her a competitive advantage. “I am running an environmental project for the duration of my reign. My Motto is ‘20 years from now’. We have to do something today if we are going to see change 20 years from now. I will reach out to as many people as I can and encourage them to look after the environment which I believe God has entrusted us to steward,” she added. Patricia Mabviko Musanhu is a Company Director/Producer at Black and White Media Productions. She can be contacted at pmabviko@gmal.com

The CEO Master Class Stimulus Women Network

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ntrepreneurs attending The Stimulus Hub Christmas Networking Dinner and CEO Master Class recently gained invaluable insights into ‘Cultivating the behaviours of a CEO’ during an address delivered by Kumbirai Katsande, immediate past president of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries [CZI]. The event which was sponsored

by HIVOS and V. S Nyangulu and Associates, Legal Practitioners, was designed to create a mentorship environment for aspiring young entrepreneurs to network with seasoned entrepreneurs and CEOs who were in attendance at the event.

Stimulus Hub Director Rudo Nyangulu-Mungofa introduced Stimulus and shared how it has something to offer entrepreneurs at every stage of business as it is designed to build capac-

ity in their business venture through Stimulus programs like the CEO Master Class Series, training, mentorship and the three main sub-networks under the Stimulus banner. Nyangulu-Mungofa went on to speak of the significance of the sub-networks; she highlighted that the Stimulus Women Network is a tool to build confidence in and teach business savvy to

women entrepreneurs whilst her colleagues Marlene Chitonga and McCloud Mungofa introduced the Stimulus Green Business Network and the Stimulus Project Management Network respectively.

They both shared how these networks were key to business success for the 21st Centaury entrepreneurial venture.

In his CEO Master Class

address Katsande brought inspiration to the audience as he talked about the need for an CEO to have grit; a determination that says, “no matter what goes wrong or works against me I will not quit”.

He also pointed to leadership vs. Micro-management, team work, humility, good communication and the ability to get buy-in from stakeholders as behaviours and qualities of a good CEO. “It’s a question of a state of mind; you must picture success and then work hard until you attain it.

It’s finding ways around the blockages and road blocks to success, it can be done with determination and single mindedness and I sense this of the group at Stimulus” Katsande said after the event.

Advocate V. S. Nyangulu presented entrepreneurial

book prize awards to three studious entrepreneurs who were able to answer questions asked by Katsande based on the content of his keynote address. The three winners were Stimulus members Zandile Ndlovu, Musekiwa Samuriwo and a member’s

guest Yolande Nyamugama.

For more information about becoming a Stimulus Hub member email membership@stimulus.co.zw or visit the Stimulus Hub website at www.stimulus.co.zw Photography by Pxel |Inonzi Memory

December 21 to 27 2014

THE STANDARD STYLE / ARTS 27

Paddington Bear Premiere in pictures

Ambassador welcomes guests at Paddington Premiere

Ambassador and some of 70 orphans invited to the Premiere pose in front of Paddington branded London bus

Paddington Movie was enjoyed by both young and old

British Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Chris Brown with Jonathan Denga at the premiere

28 THE STANDARD STYLE / ARTS / BOOKWORM

Oracles of the povo

December 21 to 27 2014

Sango Conference Centre celebrates 2nd Anniversary

C Bookworm

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recently attended the launch of POVO journal at Gallery Delta in Harare’s Avenues district. Unlike most book launches I have attended in town there was a bit of a crowd – a motley crew of cultural practitioners. POVOAfrika was conceived 10 years ago with the purpose of serving as a platform for progressive citizens to express themselves in the global world on all things Zimbabwean.

For so long I knew POVO as an online initiative run by a small collective. Here and there I read an engaging story on their website or joined in their discussions on social media platforms, mainly Twitter. The photography, the designs were and continue to be of remarkably high standard.

The brains behind the POVOAfrika project Baynham Goredema is someone I knew and interfaced with from my time as an editorial intern at Weaver Press. As a graphic designer, he was involved in the creation of many iconic book covers. Ever since, I appreciate the significance of book covers.

There is something alluring about POVO journal.

In a lot of ways, this magazine helps to make the book a cool fashion accessory that one must not only own but also get to peruse and engage with. POVO is a perfect front-table addition to any office or coffee shop that values the Zimbabwean story.

There’s no attempt to impose any overarching narrative on the varied selections in their Anniversary and Women’s editions, unless you count the gnomic pronouncement POVO makes that “we ask our contributors to go on a wild ride about ideas they are passionate about.” Yet common themes emerge.

POVO is a creative aggregation of insightful essays on aspects of Zimbabwean arts and culture. It features young writers and cultural practitioners including Masimba Hwati, Fungai Machirori, Plot Mhako, Elton Mjanana, Batsirai Chigama, Wadzanai Chiuriri, Masimba Biriwasha, Nqobizito Mlilo, Hope Masike among others.

In fact, POVO’s tagline is “people of valued opinion” but with names like these, it’s not necessarily a platform where fresh talent cuts it teeth. As it is, it has taken a more international and self-consciously avant-garde outlook. It brings a rare sense of energy and excitement captured in its pages in a way that pushes the possibilities of the literary-cultural magazine format.

While POVO journal claims to be pan-African that is far from the reality. It remains in character, content and contributions a Zimbabwean project. There is need to enlarge the scope of our narrative and conversation.

Indeed it is necessary to build a candid platform to express Zimbabwe in the global community. Gorede-

ma laments “If you search on Google, Zimbabwean content is lacking. There is not enough content about us on online. We just don’t document things as Zimbabweans. We are good talkers with nothing to show.”

Unfortunately, our political discourse has muted young voices – they can only sing praises of their leaders, not think independently or challenge the prevailing status quo. Povo is a space for young Zimbabweans to voice their opinions. Goredema explains “we believe that every person’s opinion is valid, which is why we have set up this platform for continuous and vigorous discourse and on all issues African in general and Zimbabwean in particular.”

POVO journal fosters a vigorous conversation among writers, scholars, arts practitioners and ordinary Zimbabweans. Initially, POVO was published as an annual report. “We did it as a 24 page magazine with a few articles from the website and artwork supplied by various designers.”

POVO is also a Shona word for the masses popularized in the liberation discourse that POVOAfrika tries to re-appropriate. “We want to capture the voices of ordinary people who are not being heard, not the professionals,” says Goredema. However, there is something ambiguous about this claim. POVO journal is a publication populated by a small network of creatives and activists. . It is my hope that ordinary Zimbabweans will not be left out of the important conversations that POVO journal seeks to unravel.

Zimbabwe has an anaemic history of literary magazine culture. Since independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has had no major literary magazines. Have our academics and writers and cultural practitioners not been curious enough to engage with their everyday reality and politics in a “free” Zimbabwe?

Literary magazines reflect the qualities or weaknesses of their societies. Our inability as a country to create such spaces for debate, discussion and reflection are indicative of the restrictive nature of our political system. We must only say the accepted versions of history and political ideology.

The continued growth of POVO is significant. However, what is worrisome is POVO’s dependence on donor patronage. The bulk of POVO’s funding comes from HIVOS. When will young Zimbabweans start to create and develop self sustaining projects? Why do we need foreign institutions to see the value in our arts and culture? Can we build businesses out of our arts and culture?

POVO is no doubt an exciting and rewarding and illuminating publication to read. And beyond that it is devoted to the idea of the dialogue in prose and poetry about our culture and being.

Feedback: Bhukuworm@gmail.com

resta Hotels has celebrated the second anniversary of the opening of its Sango Conference Centre in the Zimbabwean capital, Harare, a major banqueting and meetings venue that has established itself as a venue of choice for local and international event organisers, especially in the medium-size market.

A wide range of smaller venues in Harare, along with a 4 000-plus conference centre, has long offered options to people wanting space in the small and large categories, but for people wanting a venue for between 400 and 800 guests, options were limited and they were often forced to use open air sites or marquee space even when they wished to be indoors.

Sango, situated alongside the group’s Cresta Lodge in Harare’s eastern suburbs, was created in 2012 to bring additional choice and the most modern facility of its kind.

Said Cresta Sango Conference Centre manager Sheelpa Kanjee: “Sango added to the choice in Harare and brought state-of-the-art facilities to people using it. Feedback from people holding events since we opened has been favourable and we look forward to consolidating this with a busy schedule throughout 2015.”

A stand-alone building adjacent to a block containing a series of small meeting rooms, the attractive and modern conference centre contains a large rectangular main room, which can be sub-divided, as well as a service room immediately adjacent – ideal for food service or supplementary display space – and a unique large platform suitable for social activities before, during or after events in the main room.

Sango has hosted a range of events since opening, from conferences and musical shows to weddings, dinner dances, exhibitions and launch events, as well as a host of other banqueting and meeting activities.

Among its features are a state-ofthe-art public address system, LCD projectors and screens, catering support services, good parking, a pleasant garden around the venue and a strong conference support team.

“Sango brings a unique style, as well as efficient hosting of events and is in use by the local business sector and community and also by a steadily increasing number of regional and international organisations that are taking a greater interest in Zimbabwe and are therefore looking at

venues such as this for inclusion in their programmes of activity,” said Ms Kanjee.

“There is a national drive at present to increase the level of meetings, incentive travel and events business being hosted throughout Zimbabwe, and Sango was created to service that market, as well as provide the general community with a trendsetting venue that offers a high standard throughout its operation.”

Ms Kanjee is one of Zimbabwe’s most experienced and enthusiastic venue managers. Born in Gweru, she is a graduate of the Midlands Christian School, Midlands Christian College and Thornhill High School, and obtained her hospitality training and diploma at Mike Farrell’s American Hotel and Motel Association-registered college in Harare. She has had career experience in Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom, including management positions at Imba Matombo, Gecko Gardens and Wild Geese Lodge, and at Hilton Hotels in Britain.

She joined the Cresta team in 2012 and has steered Cresta Sango through its first two years, helping establish its reputation as one of Harare’s best venues for meetings and events, ranging from conferences to exhibitions and weddings to awards ceremonies. She has a team of three working full-time, including an assistant functions manager and two functions co-ordinators, and brings in part-timers when needed. She heads up liaison with other departments within Cresta Lodge, especially food and beverage operations.

“Sango has been a success because it is an exciting venue with much to offer, especially for larger gatherings. My position is exciting for me as every day brings new challenges and new people to meet. As a venue it is now well-established and definitely on the way up, and we look forward to being as busy in the coming year as in the past two years,” said Ms Kanjee.

At the 2014 Megafest Awards, Sango was named best conference centre in Zimbabwe, while Ms Kanjee was named runner-up for the female tourism operator of the year award.

Cresta also offers conferencing and banqueting facilities at its other hotels across Zimbabwe – Cresta Oasis and Cresta Jameson in Harare, Cresta Churchill in Bulawayo and Cresta Sprayview in Victoria Falls.

THE STANDARD STYLE / ARTS / CELEB NEWS 29

December 21 to 27 2014

MEDIA RELEASE

MultiChoice launches BoxOffice

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ultiChoice has officially launched BoxOffice in Zimbabwe, in what is yet another move to provide DStv subscribers with the ultimate in home television entertainment.

BoxOffice is a service that allows subscribers to conveniently rent and watch the latest blockbuster movies in the comfort of their homes, right on their HD PVR decoders.

With BoxOffice, DStv subscribers can now rent and keep movies for up to 48 hours, for a minimal fee per movie.

Movie categories vary from comedy, drama and family movies, to horror, fantasy and a whole lot more.

Lovemore Mangwende, Chief Executive Officer for MultiChoice Zimbabwe said that with BoxOffice, DStv Premium and Compact subscribers with an active HD PVR subscription and a compatible HD PVR or Explora decoder can easily sign up and enjoy Hollywood’s best movies.

“DStv services like BoxOffice form part of a bigger MultiChoice strategy to use cutting-edge technological innovation to helping people enjoy some of the best entertainment available at a time that’s convenient to them.

“And with the all-new Explora decoder, we’re taking on demand video to a whole new level, by offering subscribers an experience that mimics the Internet, but on a decoder, and without the high data bills.

“With this innovative service,” adds Mangwende, “booking movies beforehand, returning movies the next day and paying those irritating late fees will be a thing of the past.”

BoxOffice on HD PVR BoxOffice on HD PVR offers a selection of up to 15 movies to rent at any one time. Customers can expect the service to stay fresh as new movies are added each week. Movies are available to watch almost immediately – so there’s no waiting and no need to “book” movies beforehand.

With BoxOffice you can also watch movie trailers before renting. BoxOffice is always open for business, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Simply press the GREEN button

on your HD PVR remote to access the BoxOffice Screen and to find out how to sign up.

BoxOffice on Explora With up to 20 movies at any one time, the DStv Explora is packaged with a brand new, stylish HD user interface, which makes finding favourite movies on BoxOffice so much easier.

Content is displayed using HD poster-art – just like an Internet video service. In addition, the Explora has powerful search features that help subscribers find movies quicker and easier as it searches across the Electronic Entire Programme Guide. Explora’s remote control further enhances the experience with dedicated shortcut buttons to BoxOffice and other viewing options. You can also watch a trailer of the movie before renting.

Zimbabwean subscribers can access the service through online registration and payment of fees per view - $2.50 per movie for a 48-hour usage period, during which time the movies can be enjoyed as many times as the viewers wish. Payment can be made through banks that facilitate DStv subscription payments, as well as through the Econet EcoCash and Telecel Telecash services. Subscribers who have Econet mobile numbers can also access the movies through SMS messaging to short code number 32288.

About MultiChoice MultiChoice is Africa’s leading pay-television operator with a presence in over 50 countries in the continent and its adjacent Indian Ocean islands, supporting it with world class subscriber management services. DStv provides the best local and international channels, including first-run films, documentaries, children’s programming, news and sports. As pioneers in pay-tv, we continuously develop technology that makes information and entertainment as easily accessible as possible. Being a proudly African business we continuously invest in the development of those communities in which we operate, enhancing education through initiatives such as our MultiChoice Resource Centre projects.

MultiChoice unlocks a new world of entertainment on-the-go with the DStv Now app

Sport, movies, series and so much more is now available anytime, anywhere, thanks to DStv Now, a new App across Africa that allows subscribers to watch Live TV, enjoy DStv Catch Up and view the TV Guide from their mobile phones and tablets.

The mobile app is currently on offer to DStv Premium subscribers with a PVR or Explora decoder, on both iOS and Android tablets and mobile phones through 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi internet connections.

Simply visit your mobile App store to download the free App. After logging in with your DStv Connect ID, link your Premium Smartcard to your DStv Connect Account by going to www.dstv.com for iOS users, while Android users will be given the option to register and link smartcards on the App. Thereafter, you will be able to stream or download your favourite Catch Up titles and view a host of other live TV channels, including SuperSport, , plus M-Net movie channels including Comedy, Actions Plus, Drama & Romance and Premiere. The relevant data costs will apply when streaming content.

There are also selected Live TV channels to watch on your mobile device and tablet plus an eight-day TV Guide showing Live programming on all DStv channels is available to DStv Subscribers.

Download the app today and you’ll never miss your favourite TV shows this festive season.

To find out more information about the DStv Now App and other connected services, visit www.dstv.com.

Search #DStvAfricaTrending on Twitter to join the conversation.

30 THE STANDARD STYLE / ENVIRONMENT

Black Gold – Part 2

Michael Nott

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ast week we talked about how artificial chemical fertilizers and pesticides are so harmful to the environment, destroying ecosystems and impoverishing our soil – how our streams and rivers, wetlands and underground water supplies are being polluted and the serious health risks that are a consequence of excessive fertilizer use. The answer to all these problems is to create natural organic compost to feed the soil as well as the plants and to protect our well being and the health of the planet. Making compost also relieves some of the pressure on our already overburdened solid waste management systems.

There are loads of different theories about the best way to make compost. Every keen gardener or organic farmer has their own special ‘recipe’ and you can even buy a huge variety of compost making machines like compost tumblers and special bins called compost digesters. However, like with most things, the simplest, easiest methods are the best and you can adapt them to suit your needs and your individual situation.

You can have a tiny compost bin in a small flat or you can create several large heaps which will provide enough compost to grow crops on a commercial scale.

For the average suburban home you need an area of flattish ground about 2m by 2m square. It’s best, but not essential, that

the area is partially shaded and close to a water supply. You don’t want it to be too close to your house and some people think that a compost heap looks untidy, so if you prefer, make it behind a hedge or a wall where it won’t be seen. Some people like to have two separate heaps – one for the mature compost and one for the new stuff, but initially only one heap will suffice.

Some people prefer to dig a shallow pit to start off with but it really isn’t necessary. Do not put down plastic sheeting first because you want the earthworms, insects and microbes from the soil to go into your compost to aerate it and start the decomposition process. A good way to start off is with some coarser material like small branches, twigs, old mealie cobs or stems, long grass or even old newspapers and shredded cardboard.

This helps with the drainage and helps to keep the air circulating. Then you can add lawn cuttings, dried leaves or any other garden matter. It’s best not to add cuttings from diseased plants or weeds that have gone to seed as you won’t want to spread these around.

If you’ve been keeping an organic dustbin in your kitchen you can start adding that too. You put in old lettuce leaves, vegetable peelings or vegetables that have gone off, teabags, coffee grounds or basically just about anything that will decompose.

You don’t want to add any plastic, metal (like tin cans or aerosol cans) or glass. These items should go into separate bins for recycling. It’s also not a good idea to add meat, fish or dairy

December 21 to 27 2014 products as they can become very smelly and attract pests like rats. Similarly, don’t add pet manure, especially if want to use your compost for growing vegetables. Some experts say that you should layer brown (or dry) material and green (or wet) material – brown being things like dried leaves or wood chips or even ash, while green or wet material is stuff like lawn cuttings and kitchen waste. However this is not really necessary.

You can even add a layer of manure or saw dust if you like.

Saw dust or straw that’s been used as bedding in horse stables works wonders. Comfrey leaves are also an excellent way to ‘activate’ your compost, but really there’s no one absolutely ‘right’ way to do it.

Once your heap gets to between 300 and 500mm high you can spread a thin layer of soil on top and then start all over again.

The layer of soil will help speed up the decomposition process and also keep in any unwanted odours. Keep the pile moist – not soggy – as this will also speed up the process. Once the heap gets to a manageable size – about waist height is good – then you’re almost done. If you’re a laid back kind of gardener all you have to is just walk away and wait a couple of months for the natural transformation to take place. Some people like to turn the heap every two weeks or so to aerate the pile and to get the good stuff at the bottom mixed in well. Depending on the temperature, the humidity and the material used your ‘black gold’ will be ready for use in three to four months. Good mature compost should be dark brown, almost black in colour, have a crumbly texture like coarse sand and have a delightful, rich earthy smell.

USEFUL HINT: bigger sticks, branches and especially palm leaves take ages to break down. Chop them up into small pieces and layer them in an old drum with a few comfrey leaves. Fill the drum with water and in about three weeks the decomposition process will be well underway and you can add them to your compost heap.

Green Tips (9) Every year hundreds if not thousands of innocent fir trees are chopped down and dragged into homes across Zimbabwe. A couple of weeks later, when they’re all dead and dried out they’re chucked away or worse still cremated. While not exactly my favourite trees, it does seem to be a rather pointless waste. Here are a few ideas for alternative Christmas trees.

Comfrey leaves make an excellent ‘activator’ for your compost heap.

Branches, twigs and palm leaves take ages to break down.

Start off twigs and branches in an old drum filled with water.

After about three weeks add them to your compost heap.

Keep an organic bin in your kitchen for food waste.

1.

Cut out the shape of a Christmas tree in card board or masonite, stick it on the wall and glue your decorations on.

2.

Find a dead branch with an interesting shape, spray it with gold paint and place it in an old paint tin or bucket filled with sand. Wrap the container with pretty parcel paper. If you can’t find a single branch that’s to your liking tie a few together with pretty ribbons.

3.

Buy a tree in a planting bag from your nursery and put the bag into a big plant pot with a drip tray underneath. Make sure it’s near a window where it can get some light and air and after Christmas you can plant it in your garden.

4.

5.

For a small tree to put on the table for Christmas lunch the wire baobabs from street vendors work perfectly and add an African theme. Use ethnic beaded decorations for added glamour.

Pin a set of rope lights onto the wall in the traditional Christmas tree shape. This can be done indoors or outdoors.

6. Designate a tree or shrub in your garden as ‘the

Christmas Tree’. Look around the garden for dried

seed pods or pretty stones or even bunches of

fresh herbs to decorate. String oranges, lemons

and green apples together to make festive garlands.

Enjoy

December 21 to 27, 2014

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32 THE STANDARD STYLE

December 21 to 27 2014

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Once again, the bells are ringing, carols echoing everywhere,Santa is on his way, the trees are hung and the socks are out in preparation for his presents. As Christmas dawns upon us and we join our families, friends and colleagues in celebrating in this warm, lovefilled and joyous season, Alpha Media Holdings, the publishers of Newsday, Southern Eye, The Zimbabwe Independent and The Standard, would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your unwavering support and loyalty to our brand. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2015.