Guyana’s Premier Guide to Entertainment, Culture, Fashion, Sports, Beauty and Bangali Baboos 2015 | Issue 68 | A Bi-monthly Publication
Nothing to Laugh About
Season 8
Highlights from the Inauguration of President
David A. Granger
Chutney Star
Terry Gajraj On Music, Life, Love & the Future
Fitness The Fastest Way To Get Into Shape
GY$1,200 | US$5.99 | BD$12 | CN$5.99
Contents GEM
16 8
PUBLISHER’S NOTES Welcome to the 68th Edition of GEM
10 SPOTLIGHT Guyana Business Coalition on Health Awareness
Guyana's Premier Lifestyle & Entertainment Magazine 2015 | Issue 68
20
26 Chutney Star
Terry Gajraj
On Music, Life, Love & the Future
12 4 20-SOMETHINGS You Should Know (Part XXIV) 14 PERSONALITY Nerissa Candacy Pearson 16 HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE INAUGURATION Guyana's 8th Executive President David A. Granger
Page
22
20 NRITYAGEET 36
Unity in Diversity Through Dance
COVER CREDIT
The photo of Terry Gajraj was taken exclusively for GEM by motographyphotos.com 2 | GEM 68, 2015
GEM 68, 2015 | 3
Contents II GEM
36 26 NOTHING TO LAUGH ABOUT Season 8 28 ICON - STEPHANIE FRASER
A Life Dedicated to Sport
30 BEAUTY TIPS
Tap Into Your Bold & Beautiful Self!
Guyana's Premier Lifestyle & Entertainment Magazine 2015 | Issue 68
40 34 FITNESS
The Fastest, Safest Way to Get Into Shape‌
36 FASHION
Runway Fashion Trends in Guyana (2004-2014)
40 TRAVEL
History of The Brickdam Independence Arch
31 SAVVY SISTER
Using the Stars to Find Love
42 RECIPE
NAMILCO's Multi-Grain Waffles
32 HEALTH BEAT
In The Know - Quick Health Facts to Consider
33 BEAUTY
Meet 22 Year Old Damalle
4 | GEM 68, 2015
42
44 LAST SEEN HERE
Random pictures of people and events.
Were you there?
Guyana’s Premier Fine Dining Restaurant. Service, Taste and Ambiance at an Exemplary Level
Available for Corporate Dinners, Luncheons, Special Occasions. Dress code in effect. MON-SAT from 6:00 p.m.
Feels like nowhere you’ve been before, but really you’re home.
Special events and catering packages available WED - SUN from 4:30 p.m. Tel: 226-5225
Tel: 624-6363
A Guyanese Tradition
Always Tasty, Always Fresh
Tel: 226-6614, 225-0930, City Mall: 225-1090
3 Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, Georgetown, Guyana GEM 68, 2015 | 5
Celebrating Guyana Since 2004! Issue 68 | 2015 FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Simeon L Corbin MANAGING EDITOR Coretta Corbin-Rival ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Tiya Peterkin LAYOUT AND DESIGN Mark James SALES & MARKETING • Tiya Peterkin INTERNATIONAL SALES & MARKETING Director Coretta Corbin-Rival INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION Director Michelle Corbin CONTRIBUTORS • Coretta Corbin-Rival • Michelle Corbin • Carl Croker • Donna Shortt-Gill • Tiya Peterkin • June English• Kezqweyah Yisrael • Macaela Cameron • Majorie Chester • Renee Chester-Thompson • www.motographyphotos.com • Sabatini N. Daniels • GBCHA GUYANA AND THE CARIBBEAN GEM | 50 BB | Eccles | East Bank Demerara | Guyana P: 011.592.233.3138 / 233.2940 GEM | P.O. Box 12396 | Georgetown | Guyana E: info@GemMagOnline.com W: www.GemMagOnline.com F: www.facebook.com/GEM.Guyana SUBSCRIPTION Guyana GYD6,500 Caribbean & North America USD45 Rest of the World USD50 http://www.gemmagonline.com INTERNATIONAL SALES AND MARKETING Corbin Media Group P.O. Box 357, Boston, MA 02137-0357 Phone: 617.833.7482 Email: gem@corbinmediagroup.com MEMBER Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Guyana Press Association (GPA) Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) ISSN 181-2019 Since 2004, GEM has been the only magazine with its finger on the pulse of Guyana’s lifestyle and entertainment trends. Every two months, it chronicles the personalities, places and events that make this country a beautiful place to live or visit. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial content in whole or in part without permission from the Publisher is prohibited. GEM/CMG does not assume responsibility for advertisements, nor any representation made therein, nor the quality or deliverability of the products themselves. Reproduction of articles, illustrations and photographs in whole or part contained herein without expressed consent from the Publisher is prohibited with the exception for news / media use. All information herein was deemed accurate at the time of printing, but may have changed after. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to GEM’s rights to edit.
Copyright © 2015 by CORBIN MEDIA GROUP Inc.
6 | GEM 68, 2015
GEM 68, 2015 | 7
Publisher's Notes “My own definition of leadership is this: The capacity and the will to rally men and women to a common purpose and the character which inspires confidence.” - General Montgomery The change of government comes with much optimism and expectations from citizens as Guyana turns the corner into a new political era. We can only hope that the new administration do the right thing by the people and work to position the country in the 21st century where we ought to be. There is no doubt that the country needs help, and it will take lots of hard work. But, it is only through our collective will can success be achieved. Issue 68 is very exciting; we have a revealing Q&A exclusive on chutney star, the one and only, Terry Gajraj. We did an up-close and personal interview with him to find out what makes him tick and the secret to his longevity in the sometimes fickle music business. In our Spotlight feature, we focus on The Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/AIDs. You should also check-out our coverage on the hilarious ‘Nothing to Laugh About’ satire and the popular Nritrageet dance production. The icon for this edition is the award winning sports personality Stephanie Fraser. Dear Valued Reader, Welcome to the 68th edition of GEM – Guyana’s premier lifestyle magazine. Great change has come to the country in the form of a totally new administration tasked with running the country’s affairs for the next five years. On May 16, His Excellency David Arthur Granger was sworn-in as our 8th Executive President after the coalition of A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) were victorious at the May 11 general and regional polls. Inauguration fever soon hit the country as hundreds of thousands watched either in person, on television or online, the swearing-in at Parliament Building on May 16 and at another ceremony on May 26 at the Guyana National Stadium. We have dedicated a significant section of this issue of GEM to capture much of the fanfare and splendor at these two events.
50 BB | Eccles | East Bank Demerara | Guyana
P: 233.3138, 233.2940 8 | GEM 68, 2015
As has become the norm with GEM, this edition also has many human interest stories and events to which Guyanese can relate. In addition, visitors to our beautiful country can also get a good synopsis of our lifestyle and trends through our glossy pages. I end by offering on behalf of the management and staff of GEM, best wishes to the new head of state, President David Granger and his cabinet on helping the nation to live-up to its motto: ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY. See you around town! .................................. Simeon L. Corbin Founder & Publisher
/ GEM.Guyana
SPOTLIGHT GBCHA Board of Directors 2015-2016
Guyana Business Coalition on Health Awareness (GBCHA) Text & Photography GBCHA
G
uyana Business Coalition on Health Awareness (GBCHA) is a registered non-profit organization located in Georgetown. Guyana Business Coalition on Health Awareness evolved from the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS, which was launched in May 2008. GBCHA formally announced its name change and expanded mandate to address general health and wellness topics in April 2015. GBCHA works with the business sector, government agencies, international partners, and community-based organizations to improve health literacy in Guyana by coordinating programmes and activities with members and partners to enhance national health and wellness. 10 | GEM 68, 2015
GBCHA implements activities to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS and other health issues; promote positive behavioral change in order to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV and reduce risks of chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension. Other issues like mental health and domestic violence are also addressed. The work of GBCHA is sustained by annual member subscriptions, fundraising events, and donor funding for special projects. Activities are managed by the GBCHA Secretariat and oversight is provided by a Board of Directors. Membership
consists of business sector companies (manufacturing, mining, forestry, banking,) and other local organizations. Services Offered to members include: • Technical Assistance - Providing assistance to develop and monitor workplace education programmes • Pe e r E d u c a t o r S e s s i o n s Training of employees as Peer Educators to share knowledge and resources in their workplaces and communities • Awareness Sessions - Conducting sessions at workplaces on HIV,
GBCHA Awardees 2014
STIs, and other health and wellness issues, as well as other topics such violence prevention and mental health • R e s o u r c e D i s t r i b u t i o n Dissemination of materials to members such as brochures, flyers, posters, condoms, lubricants, etc. • Event Planning- Support during pl anning and promotion of member events • Free, confidential HIV counseling and testing • P a r t n e r s h i p F a c i l i t a t i o n Facilitating public/private partnerships with companies and other local community organizations • M e m b e r P r o m o t i o n a n d Advertising - Recognition of businesses at annual GBCHA Business Excellence Awards, advertising opportunities in publications
• N e t w o r k - N e t w o r k i n g f o r members and partners
Pe g a s u s , S c o t i a b a n k , S t e r l i n g Products Ltd and Republic Bank Ltd.
Since launching in 2008 GBCHA has managed projects funded by UNAIDS, USAID and Global Fund. In addition to the technical assistance given to members, the Annual Awards for Business Excellence remains a signature event for the Coalition. The event recognizes the contributions made by the business sector towards health initiatives.
Address: 108 Orange Walk, Bourda, Georgetown, Guyana
Membership is open to all legally registered entities. Current members include AH&L Kissoon Ltd, Banks DIH, Citizen’s Bank, Cara Lodge, Continental Group of Companies, Demerara Distillers Ltd, Denmor Garment Factory, Edward B Beharry & C o . L t d , Fa r f a n & M e n d e s , Guyana Lottery Company, Guyana National Shipping Corporation, G u y a n a Fo r e s t r y C o m m i s s i o n , Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Co., Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners Association, Hand in Hand Group of Companies, John Fernandes Ltd, National Milling Company, Massy Gas Products,
Phone: +592 225-0972 Fax: +592 225-0678 Website: www.guybizcoalition.org Chairperson: Ms. Donna RobertsBenjamin Executive Director: Ms. Suzanne French Email: info@guybizcoalition.org Vision: Inspiring Compassionate Leadership in the Workplace and Community. Mission: To mobilize the business sector in their response to HIV/AIDS and health awareness by coordinating technical assistance and support. GEM 68, 2015 | 11
4
20-Somethings YOU SHOULD KNOW
In an ongoing series, GEM introduces you to some 20-somethings that are intelligent, creative, self-assured, patriotic and show signs of readiness to lead Guyana.
Despite the frequent talk of “brain drain” in Guyana and disillusioned youths, these young leaders are sticking
around and aggressively pursuing their various fields of endeavor. This list is just a sample of the calibre of talent that is moving to the forefront of our society, ready to takeover and lead the country into a bright future.
Lisa Christal Bradshaw Age: 26 Hometown: Georgetown, Guyana High school: Richard Ishmael Secondary Occupation: Cosmetologist Claim to fame: I believe that I gained recognition through modelling and my skills as a Makeup Artist and Nail Technician. I am known for my
George Thomas Age: 29 Hometown: Born in Albouystown, now live in Bougainvillea Park, East Bank Demerara High School: Bishops’ High School Occupation: Lawyer Claim to fame: Criminal defense Advocate. Hobbies: Camping, Fishing, Cricket and football. Relationship status: Engaged
12 | GEM 68, 2015
Part xxiv
unique nail art designs and flawless makeup for various occasions. Hobbies: Graphic Designing, Dancing and hanging out with friends. Idol: There isn't anyone that i idolize. Politics is: Not interested Where do you see yourself in ten years?: In the next 10 years, I see myself having my own salon and being one of the best Cosmetologist in Guyana and having 3 beautiful children.
Idol: Morria Cerello for his years of unwavering commitment and dedication to a cause. Politics is: I’m open politically. I pray for the day when all Guyana can unite and as each person develops so too does the nation. I love Guyana but it’s a shame we have no identity to be proud of. Where do you see yourself in ten years?: In ten years a household name. I hate injustice and I see myself building a home for the less fortunate. Or at least assisting in setting one up.
Emma Maria Lall Age: 21 Hometown: Georgetown, Guyana High school: Georgetown International Academy Occupation: Business Woman/ Student Claim to fame: Managing director at Empire Auto Imports and Manager at Empire Shopping Plaza. Hobbies: Baking, Traveling, Shopping and Reading
Relationship status: Single Idol: That's a tough one because I have two, my mom and dad. They're the most hardworking people I know. Politics is: Open minded Where do you see yourself in ten years?: In ten years I see myself expanding my parents businesses and creating some of my own to successful heights, also hopefully being happily married with a couple of kids (lol) wouldn't my mom just love that!
Leana Nadine Bradshaw
anchor/ reporter on state broadcaster National Communications Network for the NCN 6 O' Clock news.
Age: 24 Hometown: Georgetown, Guyana
Hobbies: Singing, Cooking, playing video games
High School: North Georgetown Secondary
Idol: I won’t idolize anyone but Jesus Christ
Occupation: Journalist/ Radio Announcer
Politics is?: Interesting
Claim to fame: I believe the name and image of Leana Bradshaw became known to the Guyanese populace when I started off my career in journalism as a young news
Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?: In the next 10 years, I see myself married, managing my own media- oriented firm.
**********************************************************************************************
If you or you know of someone that should be considered for the 20-somethings list, feel free to contact us via e-mail at letters@gemmagonline.com
GEM 68, 2015 | 13
PERSONALITY
Nerissa Candacy Pearson Photography: Submitted
Job: Broadcaster by profession but currently holding the title of Announcer/Producer Favourite dish: My favourite dish is a tough one to decide because I do love eating Corn Beef with Potato and Rice but I also love Puri and shrimps curry; so it is difficult to choose just one. Favourite movie: I do not have a favourite movie, but I do love a good comedy with a bit of romance and an awesome suspense film. Favourite book: Undoubtedly it is, ‘The Basket of Flowers: A Tale for the young’ by Christoph Von Schmid. This is the most impacting book I have ever read, despite having read it almost two decades ago, it is still the one that comes to mind every time I am asked this question. Favourite genre of music: Funny fact I love almost every genre of music except for Punk Rock. I am most times listening to soulful R&B and some old school Hip Hop. 14 | GEM 68, 2015
W
hy this career choice, and what would have been your plan B? NP: I actually was encouraged to get into this business by my mother, she knows how talkative I have been all my life so in a sense it was just to continue it but do it for a purpose lol. But I have learnt there are so many other aspects to this career that even now I am still learning and exploring, hopefully one day I can be worthily acknowledged as a true Veteran Broadcaster. I love this career because you have a chance to reach people in such an intimate way that in their view you become a friend or even part of their family without, in most cases, never even meeting them and I truly appreciate being a part of their lives.
won’t know. NP: I am very shy but force myself to be more outgoing because of my job and because I love a challenge as well. If I get into a strange setting I most times just sit or find a corner and stay quiet, probably fiddling with my phone, and occasionally give a simple smile when I notice people staring or probably saying something. I would honestly prefer just to stay silent for the most part now… How ironic... But I think it is because I talk so much to the nation I just prefer to observe others in their natural element and let it not be ALL about me. Most people say that they wouldn’t have envisioned me as the person they hear on the air, I often reply … I know…
My plan or hope in the sense of a career was to be a lawyer and later moving on to being a Family Court Judge, I always loved the look and attitude with which those in the field execute their duties and pictured myself being able to do the same. I do not know what God has ordained for me but for now Broadcasting is it by God’s grace but you never know maybe later on in life I might just achieve it to at the least accomplish that dream.
GEM: What is the one thing you cherish most in life? NP: This is an easy one to answer. My daughter, Netanya Jahzara Pearson, she is truly my gift from God as her name means. Regardless of what is going on in my life she just compliments the positive and brightens the darkness, I truly LOVE HER and that is an understatement of how I feel about her. It amazes me though how much I love and cherish her so much. If given the opportunity to have her again, I would without a second thought.
GEM: Name something about yourself that most people
GEM: If you had the opportunity to cover any news story in the last
year, which one would it be and why? NP: It was difficult to picture just one event but one that sticks out to be a great opportunity would have been U.S. President, Barak Obama's visit to Jamaica and the youth forum he had. Barak Obama has been the center of much global conversations even during his election, Caribbean nationals at home were campaigning for him as if they could have actually voted for him; even some of his unique decisions with regard to the U.S and other countries have gotten him much attention even though they are not all necessarily positive reactions. It would have been nice to hear and report on some of the issues he responded to from the youth of Jamaica as a representative of Guyana. GEM: If you could interview one person ever, who would it be? NP: H.E. Brigadier David Arthur Granger. He is a very sharp politician and handles any interview with the clarity and even difficulty matching
the interviewer's skill in conducting the interview. I would love the opportunity to interview him based on his ideals, goals and dreams as he now reflects on his successes even at his age. We often said as children when we grow up we would like to be President of our country but very few have actually been able to achieve this. So many questions come to mind and I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to ask them the President Granger. GEM: Are there any political o r s o c i a l i s s u e s y o u f e e l passionately about? NP: The one Social Issue I feel the most passionate about would be the littering of our environment. I love my homeland but the state it was and even now still is, saddens me to my heart. I dream of a Guyana that my family can grow, blossom and appreciate just as I want to but it calls for ALL of us to change our habits and attitudes towards the environment and our country; and that our national pride can be reflected in how we keep
our surroundings. GEM: So far what's been your m o s t e m b a r r a s s i n g moment as a journalist? NP: I honestly cannot think of any such occasion. I try my best in the execution of my duties everytime, I may not get it perfect every time but I do well and take every disappointment as fuel to do better. I am rarely ever embarrassed because I always leave room for the possibility of something going wrong. GEM: Beer or cocktail? NP: You can give me a Beastly Cold Beer anytime over a cocktail. GEM: What would you most likely be doing at 1 pm on a Sunday? NP: Most likely I would have just had my Sunday lunch and as "ethnic syndrome" sets in, I would be going to take my Sunday nap from then until around 5 pm lol. It is my duty to nap same time EVERY Sunday; I rarely do anything else at this time.
GEM 68, 2015 | 15
President Granger holds the Bible up after taking his Oath of Office while First Lady Sandra Granger (l), Moses Nagamootoo to her right and Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Carl Singh (r) look on
Highlights
From the Inauguration of Guyana’s 8th Executive President Brigadier David Arthur Granger Photography: Carl Croker
A section of the thousands of people that turned out for the swearing-in at Parliament Building
16 | GEM 68, 2015
Part of the Diplomatic Community
W
ho’s who in the business s e c t o r, p u b l i c o f f i c i a l s , diplomatic community and civic society along with tens of thousands of supporters flocked to Parliament Building, watched on television and the internet to bear witness to the swearing-in of Guyana’s 8th Executive President Brigadier David Arthur Granger on May 16, 2015. People stood shoulder to shoulder as all eyes were focused on the balcony of the historic building to watch the proceeding and to see the man-ofthe-moment recite his oath of office. Renowned broadcaster Margaret Lawrence officially started the brief programme as she invited songstress
Lisa Punch Lisa Punch to deliver her rendition of the National Anthem. This was followed by the repeating of the National Motto by all in attendance and prayers by representatives from the three major religious orders in Guyana.
The same charged and feel-good
The Proclamation was read by Dr. Steve Surujbally before Brigadier Granger took the Oath of Office which was administered by the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Carl Singh. After the signing of the oath, Brigadier Granger gave his inspiring address to the nation, and ended it by encouraging the audience to hold hands and sing the national song—”Let Us Cooperate.”
Brigadier Ganger’s inauguration and
moment was experienced ten days later on May 26 at the National Stadium in Providence, where an estimated 20,000 people packed the facility to witness part two of the a grand celebration of Guyana’s 49th independence anniversary. Guyanese of all walks of life were treated to a stage show, a display by the joint services band, a ground performance by hundreds of students, an address by His Excellency and a fireworks display.
The Joint Services drum corps at the National Stadium GEM 68, 2015 | 17
Highlights from the Inauguration
Brief Bio of President David Granger
Young Bill Rogers
D
avid Arthur Granger was born on July 15, 1945. He attended Queen’s College (QC), where he was a member of the QC Cadet Corps. After his graduation, he joined the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) as an officer cadet in 1965, and was later commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1966. He received his professional military training at the Army Command and Staff College in Nigeria; the Jungle Warfare Instruction Centre in Brazil; and the School of Infantry and the Mons Officer Cadet School in the United Kingdom. During his military career, he held a number of appointments and led numerous military delegations to Brazil, Cuba, Germany, Guinea, Korea, Somalia and Yugoslavia. Brigadier Granger holds a Master of Social Science Degree in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from the University of Guyana. In addition, he has a post-graduate diploma in International Relations from the University of the West Indies. He was also an Internal Fellow on the Defence Planning and Resource Management Seminar at the Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies of the National Defense University and attended the Counterterrorism Educators’ Workshop at the Joint Special Operations at the University of Florida, USA. Brigadier Granger became commander of the Guyana Defence Force in 1979 and was promoted to the rank of Brigadier. In 1990, he was appointed National Security Advisor to the President, and retired two years later from the military service. Brigadier Granger was the founder and Managing Editor of the Guyana Review, a monthly news magazine. He has also published and coauthored a number books and other print material related to the military and paramilitary, the transatlantic slave trade and the media. Brigadier Granger’s introduction into politics saw him being elected as leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) just before the 2011 general and regional elections. In 2011, Brigadier Granger’s PNCR teamed up with five smaller political parties – the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), National Front Alliance, the Guyana Action Party, Justice For All Party to form A Partnership For National Unity (APNU). They made him their presidential candidate to contest the 2011 elections. APNU did not win the elections, but Brigadier Granger became Opposition Leader. In 2015 however, the coalition was further strengthened by the historic signing of the Cummingsburd Accord between the APNU and the Alliance For Change (AFC) to form the APNU+AFC election ticket for the May 11 polls. The coalition came out victorious and Brigadier Granger was elected as Guyana’s eighth Executive President.
18 | GEM 68, 2015
Sharmaine Blackman
Prime Minster of Barbados Freundel Stuart and Basil Williams
Eddy Grant and Frank Willison
GEM 68, 2015 | 19
Nrityageet 36 Unity in Diversity Through Dance Photography: Carl Croker
N
a di r a a n d I n dr a n i e S h a h D a n c e Tr o u p e h a s b e e n commemorating Indian Immigration for over three decades with its annual production called Nrityageet. This year was no different as they presented the thirty sixth edition at the National Cultural Centre in May of this year.
Nrityageet is a presentation Indian classical, traditional, modern, c o n t e m p o r a r y, a n d i n n o v a t i v e dance theatre involving some 100 performers that represent unity in diversity through dance styles, ethnicity, costumes, and stage sets. The Shah family has presented dance dramas such as Dasavatar – the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu; Shakuntalam, Rati Kamadev – Based on the story of Lord Shiva, Rati and Kamadev – the God of Love; and The Dream of Omar Khhayam among other dance dramas capturing religious, literary, historical, and cultural themes and stories. 20 | GEM 68, 2015
The word “Nrityageet” means pure dance and song. “In Nrityageet stage productions over the years, we have used our talents and experience in dance and theatre arts to present the history and culture of our ancestors combined with our visions, moods, ideas, experiments in dance, costumes, music, stage sets, lights, sound, and special effects, adding to intricate dance sequences, and making Nrityageet what it has been over the last 30 years – a labour of love for the Arts,” stated director Dr. Seeta Shah Roath. Nrityageet was recognised at its 21st production for its “Exceptional Diligence in the Pursuit of Excellence,” by the Guyana Theatre Arts Awards and for “Best Dance Production” in 2004, 2003, 2000, 1998, and 1999; “Best Costumes” in 2003, 2002, 2000, and 1997; and “Best Sets” in 2003, 2004, and 2000, and “Best Traditional Dance” by the Madame Iffel Award of Barbados.
Most significantly, the Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe M.S. received the National Award – the Medal of Service – for “Sustained and Outstanding Contribution to the Cultural Mosaic of Guyana” and the New York Folk Festival Award for “Long and Sustained Dance Productions of Excellence.” Over the years, a number of Nrityageet’s senior dancers had represented Guyana through performances and workshops in a number of countries around the world including the United States of America, Canada, London, Germany, Sweden, Egypt, Croatia, Barbados, Trinidad, and Suriname. “We continue to share our experiences, skills, and love for dance both locally and overseas through our dance studios,” declares Suzanne Shah Nilsson, young producer, choreographer, and dancer.
Dr. Seeta Shah Roath
Young dancers perform
Storyteller Michael Khan
GEM 68, 2015 | 21
Chutney Star
Terry Gajraj On Music, Life, Love & the Future
After bursting onto the scene in 1992 with his super hit “Guyana Baboo,” it was no turning back for Terry Vivekanand Gajraj. His name and this song have become synonymous with things Guyanese. Terry grew up in Fyrish Road, Corentyne, East Berbice. His father was a head teacher at the local school and grandfather was the Pandit at the local mandir. In the late 1980’s, Terry and his family left the shores of Guyana in pursue of a different life in New York. With the dream of a career in music tucked away at the back of his mind, he worked as a mail clerk and later in the insurance industry to survive in the meantime, before branching-out later as a full time entertainer.
It is very rear not to see Terry performing at major Guyanese or Caribbean events around the world, but GEM: What’s your middle name? Terry Gajraj: Vivekanand (after the great Swami Vivekananda) GEM: When did you decide that you wanted to become a performer? TG: I grew up in a musical family so it was destined for me since I was a little kid. GEM: Who are some of the artistes you grew up listening to? TG: Sundar Popo, Bob Marley, Hari Om Sharan, Rafi, Kishore, Lata, GEM: You’re naturally talented. Where does all that creativity come from? 22 | GEM 68, 2015
especially in North America. His professionalism, longevity and versatility have helped him to garner respect from promoters and his peers in the business.
Terry has performed nearly 500 songs and recorded almost 30 albums in various genres of music during his illustrious career so far. He was the first Caribbean singer to perform at the Millennium Bollywood Music Awards. He is also the recipient of numerous awards including a Guyana Cultural Association award in NY. Terry took time out of his extremely busy schedule to give GEM an exclusive Q&A. Of course, we took the opportunity to ask as many unique questions as we can come up with.
TG: My Dad & his brothers taught me the Guitar, Keyboards, Drums etc and I started singing devotional songs in the village Mandir. GEM: How do you feel being known as ‘Guyana Baboo’? TG: PROUD of everything associated with Guyana especially being called the Guyana Baboo. I feel like the Don, Godfather or King. GEM: How do you prepare for a performance? TG: I prepare my song list based on the type of audience I’m performing for. I also encourage promoters and
fans to suggest songs for me to sing. I warm up my vocals, drink water and embrace my nervousness. GEM: When it comes to the music you produce and sing, do you assume a character? TG: No, I want my music to reflect who I am not necessarily some character. GEM: Is there anyone you’d really like do a duet with? TG: Most singers want to duet with the big names. Me, I prefer to duet with the new, upcoming, “no name” singers to help them build a name and show them the way in the industry.
I love my music and I love the fans I sing for. They make me happy..
A motographyphotos.com photo
GEM 68, 2015 | 23
Carl Croker Photo
Terry G, Mahendra Ramkellawan and Ravi B GEM: Because of your longevity in the business, other artists look up to you. Do you look out for new talent? TG: Yes, always! That’s the only way the music will grow. GEM: What is the secret to your longevity? TG: LOVE. You have to give love to receive love. I love my music and I love the fans I sing for. They make me happy and for that I always tell them “there is no me without you.” If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life. I feel blessed, grateful and humbled. GEM: You have performed with numerous singers and traveled around the world, which event is your most memorable? TG: There are too many memorable events but I believe the Bollywood Music Awards was most memorable because I stood out among the biggest Bollywood Stars and Singers from India and was proud to represent Guyana. GEM: Do you prefer playing at large venues or smaller intimate ones? TG: More the merrier, Bigger the better! The bigger events give me an opportunity to appeal to more 24 | GEM 68, 2015
people and subsequently showcase the music and culture of Guyana to a larger audience. GEM: You have created music for all the popular genres, but which genre are you the most comfortable with? TG: I love Chutney Soca because it represents who I am. I’m of Indian descent but I grew up in the Caribbean so I get to tell my story and get to feel the passion for the music. GEM: You have performed in front of thousands of fans over the years, and people see a singer that obviously knows his craft well and who is enjoying himself, but how do you see yourself? TG: LOL, I still see myself as a country boy from the village of Fyrish who still loves everything I did as a kid. I cherish the simple way of life, fishing, riding a cycle, cricket, my Guyanese food and my Guyanese girls lol... GEM: Tell us something about you that will surprise most people. TG: I’m shy, introverted & gets nervous before EVERY SINGLE SHOW but once I hit the stage I become the Singer, Entertainer, Performer… Outwardly I may seem calm but on the inside, I’m all turmoil and stormy with butterflies.
GEM: Your private life is somewhat a mystery. Tell us about your family? TG: As an Entertainer I belong to the people but I try my best to keep my private life “private”. My entire family is very down-to-earth, friendly, humble, deeply religious Hindus and very loving. They don’t like the limelight so I try to respect their wishes. Thanks to my family for keeping my feet on the ground and bowing to the good in human beings. My Dad taught me that EVERYONE has good and bad and that I should interact with the good in every individual, instead of the bad. GEM: Do you see yourself retiring anytime soon? TG: Never. Singing makes me happy. Why should I retire and be sad? I love it so much I strongly believe I’ll be making music in my grave. lol. GEM: What does your 2015 summer schedule looks like? TG: Last week I did Kissimmee, FL; West Palm Beach, FL and Atlanta, GA. Coming up, I have London, England UK; Paramaribo, Suriname; Hollywood, FL; Toronto, Canada; Richmond Hill, NY; Waterbury, CT; Boston, MA; Alhambra Casino in Aruba and many, many more.
A motographyphotos.com photo
I want my music to ref lect who I am, not necessarily some character..
GEM 68, 2015 | 25
Nothing
to Laugh About 8 Photography: Carl Croker
A
merican comedian and actor Kevin Hart summed it up best when he said: “Laughter heals all wounds, and that's one thing that everybody shares. No matter what you're going through, it makes you forget about your problems. I think the world should keep laughing.” Nothing to Laugh About 8 was the perfect antidote Guyanese needed to take us out of a tense, sometimes volatile and unpredictable general and regional election season this year. A good belly full of laugher was had by all in attendance at the May 29 through June 1st showing of this annual satire at the National Culture Centre. The “Nothing to Laugh About” franchise is the brainchild of Maria Benshop who did her first production in 2007 under the directorship of well known comedian and veteran actor Henry Rodney. The 3-night performance was staged at the Theatre Guild in Kingston in front of 26 | GEM 68, 2015
sold-out audiences each night. And, as the saying goes the rest is history. The show which is in its eighth year of production continues to play to sold-out audiences on each night, as patrons flock to witness what the best comedic minds in the country can come up with. Its main attraction for fans is the way in which the actors make light of popular personalities and peculiar situations in our society without being malicious. The show also received similar responses from audiences during its tour of select communities around the country. This year’s cast included Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, Henry Rodney, Michael Ignatius, Kirwyn Mars, Chris Gopaul, Clemencio Goddette, Leza “Radika” Singh, Mark “Chiney man”
Kazim, Leslyn Bobb-Semple, Gerard Gilkes, Simone Persaud, Alana Craigen, Leon Cummings, Johann David, and Brian Goodman. The Stage Manager was Sonia Yarde. With this caliber of writers and casts, fans can only expect future productions to be much bigger and better.
Linden "Jumbie" Jones
Leza “Radika” Singh, Clemencio Goddette and Michael Ignatius
Chris Gopaul and Henry Rodney
GEM 68, 2015 | 27
ICON
Stephanie Anne Fraser A life dedicated to sport Text: Sabatini. N. Daniels Photography: Carl Croker
O
ne name which cannot go unmentioned when discussing the success of swimming in Guyana is “Stephanie Anne Fraser,” a woman who has proven that just as males; females too can make their mark in sport. Fraser, a Sport Administrator, Swim Coach and Massage Therapist, has been instrumental in promoting swimming in the country over the last two decades. Her love for sport is undeniable and not only limited to swimming since over the years she has been involved in judo, karate and track. She once said, “I do believe that, each person is born with their own God-given talent, let’s just say sport is my niche, participating in sports came naturally to me.”
Stephanie was born to parents Theodore and Philomena Gomes on November 9, 1955 in Santa Rosa, Moruca (Region 1). She described her early years spent in Moruca as the most memorable; emphasising that the freedom, the fun, and the sheer natural healthy ways of country life are some of the things she wished her two children could have experienced more. The first “sport” she got involved in was swimming at the tender age of four in the dark waters of the Moruca River where she emulated other children and used dried coconuts and palm branches as floats. Stephanie attended the Santa Rosa Roman Catholic School and later moved to Georgetown, to further her education, following in the footsteps of her two older siblings. Once in the city, she attended Singh’s Commercial School, St. Joseph’s Hospital Nursing School and later their Massage School. Her studies did not deter her love for sport and it remained an active part of her life. Initially, she began running track when she first moved to Georgetown; however when one of her knees got injured during a training session in the National Park she was required to do swimming as therapy. This is where her love for the sport was invigorated resulting
28 | GEM 68, 2015
in her joining the Blue Dolphin Swim Club at Luckhoo Pool under the guidance of Coach Vibert Charles, in 1974. In the same year she also acquired her first Canadian YMCA Swim Instructor’s certification, which she was most proud of. After recovering from her knee injury, Stephanie began practicing Karate with the famous Sensei Charles Woon-aTai and gained her brown belt. After three years of Karate, she moved to Judo where she gained another senior grade (black), and taught the junior class for four years. She later served as Secretary for the Guyana Judo Association. While juggling her schedule was a struggle, she noted that sport teaches self-discipline and time management, so once she had her agenda well mapped it was easier. In Georgetown, she also met David Fraser the father of her
two children; Dee-Anne and Nicholas Fraser. The pair tied the knot in 1979 but separated in 1989. During her marriage, she took a break from sport but shortly after the separation her children motivated her to get involved again since she wanted them to be occupied in an extracurricular activity. As such, Stephanie applied for membership at the Tower Hotel pool to teach them swimming, this she said, “was the beginning of my career as a swimming coach.” She eventually became the in-house Swim Instructor at the Tower Hotel, Embassy Club and several other privately owned pools. This Sport Administrator described the start of her journey as an exciting one. She said as the sport grew, the learning to swim aspect became a very lucrative business, creating part time jobs for many young swimmers who were trained as Swim Instructors. I n 1 9 9 2 , w h e n t h e Pe o p l e ’ s Progressive Party won the elections and the late President, Dr. Cheddi Jagan announced the opening of the Castellani Pool to the public; Stephanie applied for pool time and founded the Dorado Speed Swim Club, subsequently assisting in the resuscitation of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association. With the formation of the Dorado Swim Club, and as the swimmers became more proficient and skillful, she saw a need to upgrade her coaching abilities. As such, she enrolled herself in a coaching clinic in Caracas, Venezuela, where she met Coach Richard Quick, the American Women’s Olympic Team coach at the time along with well known Swimming Scientist Mr. Ernie Maglischo, who facilitated the Coaching Course. She also joined the American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA) and successfully completed her Level 1 and Level 2 certifications.
said, “Any course that I felt would benefit the swimmers in the long term and was affordable, whether it was a certification course on Nutrition, conditioning etc… I attended and certified myself.” Her latest venture is a course on Synchronised Swimming, which is presently ongoing. Stephanie’s passion for swimming also saw her becoming an active member of a number of such organisations. These clubs include: the American Swimming Coaches Association; the Canadian Lifeguard/ Lifesaving Society; Swim America program-Instructor, Guyana; Secretary of the Guyana Lifeguard Association (recently formed); President of the Guyana Masters Swim Club; Head Coach of the Dorado Speed Swim Club; and member of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association. In recognition of her sterling contribution to swimming in Guyana, the swim instructor has also been bestowed with numerous awards. She was presented with the Medal of Service for “outstanding contribution in the field of Sport” by the Government of Guyana in 2011; the Guyana Amateur swimming Association for service towards the advancement of the sport of swimming in 2009; the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs “Women’s Wall of Distinction” for 21 years of service as a swimming Coach in 2014; the Guyana Olympic Association for “Contribution to the development of Sports in General and to swimming in Particular” in 2015 and the National Sports Commission “Female Sports Personality” twice, in 2009 and 2012.
Though swimming is more respected than before in Guyana, partly due to Stephanie’s commitment and intervention, there is still more she would like to see accomplished. One such thing is the implementation of an aquatic syllabus in primary schools which she assisted the National Centre for Education Research and Development to develop in 2007. She would also like to see more aquatic professionals trained and other aquatic activities in place for Guyanese of all ages and abilities, inclusive of aqua-therapy programmes for elderly, with structured programmes, utilising government owned facilities. She is advocating for Physical Education to be implemented in schools. Stephanie the swim coach said that she is proud of being able to use her experience as a sports person to mentor and motivate young people and being influential in the re-introduction of Learn-To-Swim programmes in Guyana. She is also proud that one of her Special Olympic swimmer, Delroy Sukhram won a Gold medal at the Special Olympic Games in Athens, Greece and that she trained two swimmers in the Learn- To- Swim programme to participate in two Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012; Britany Van Lange and 20-year-old Olympian Niall Roberts. Her words of advice to young athletes are: “Education is the key to success. Have a plan of what you want to achieve both in your academics and sporting life, set goals, and go for it! And sometimes the best decisions are not the easiest. Lots of sacrifices have to be made.”
In addition to this, she attended several other courses with ASCA, the Pan-American Sports Organisation (PASO) and the world governing body for swimming – Federation De Natation Amateur (FINA). She GEM 68, 2015 | 29
TAP INTO YOUR BOLD & YOUR BEAUTIFUL SELF! Making it Quick, Easy & Flawless Text: Reneé Chester-Thompson Photography: Infinity Photography
Glamming out is always fun,
though it's not the only way to look sexy or to grab attention, it's still so much fun!!!
Most women love the high-fashion trend in fashion, hair and makeup, I'm one of them. As a makeup artist I get to express my creativity on myself and clients with so much hyperfeminine stuff like the use of big bold, wispy eyelashes, highlighting and contouring the face, using bronzer and shimmer, creating an ombre lip and even using rhinestones/gems etc... But when you strip away all that drama, and go for gorgeous skin with minimal highlight and contour, mild tone eyeshadow and something like an eggplant lip color for your dark complexion or Hint of Pink for your fair complexion you get a look that's equally breathtaking and tomboy sexy... a potent combination you could say! If your skin tone is: Medium brown, Dark or Deep. You will need these tools: Matt brown eyeshadow, black eye pencil, a smudge brush, black mascara, dark brown eyebrow powder, angled brow brush, deep eggplant lip liner, matching lip gloss and a lip brush. Follow these quick and easy steps: * Using the dark brown brow powder, fill in your eyebrows using the angle brow brush. * Sweep the matt brown eyeshadow over the entire lid, applying it the lightest to the crease and brow bone. 30 | GEM 68, 2015
* Trace a thin line along the upper and lower lash lines using the black eye pencil. Slightly blend out the upper line using a smudge brush (take it beyond the outer corners of the eye) then apply mascara. * Line your lips with the eggplant lip liner and feather out the edges inward using the lip brush. Apply lip gloss from the center of lip to the outer edges. And there you have a simple and sexy way to add & enhance your deep skin tone that has been made flawless by your foundation and powder. I hope you’re taking notes ladies! Now for a tutorial on something “So Fresh & So Clean.” A softer look for your medium to fair skin tone. A soft, sexy makeup application is very flattering and very versatile. You can make this type of look work for a wedding, a business meeting, a date or a party that you’re unsure of the dress code, somehow this look is usually the perfect look for any occasion… SO MASTER IT because everyone needs a go-to look that they know makes them feel hot no matter the occasion. It’s the same as ‘the little black dress.’ So, here’s how you achieve this type of look! The Tools: Black Eye pencil, Black Mascara that gives length and volume, Eyelash Curler, Sheer gray eyeshadow, Apricot tone eyeshadow, Nude lip pencil, clear lip gloss and a
Peach tone blush. • Apply the sheer gray eyeshadow from your lashline to the crease of your eye, smudge along the lower lashline and wing outward at the outer corner of the eye. This will create a Smokey effect. • Apply the Apricot tone eyeshadow underneath your browbone (this should be a great highlight from the actual tone of your skin). Be sure to blend well. • Using the black eye pencil, trace the upper lash line from the inner to outer. Smudging the line beyond the lashline will create a winged effect which is optional based on your preference. It usually works well with this look anyhow! • Curl your lashes with the eyelash curler then coat both lower and upper lashes with black mascara. • Now, as a finishing touch, lightly sweep the peach tone blush along your cheekbones. Finish up this quick look by lining your lips with the nude pencil, filling the entire lip then add a clear lip gloss. In previous articles I’ve laid out the rules to achieving a flawless makeup application. Trusting that you know and understand the rules, now you can bend and twist them a little bit. Creating faces is fun. Playing with color and downplaying looks are all fun ways to express your mood. Just remember to add your own special twists sometimes… MAKE UP your own rules!
SAVVY SISTER
Using the Stars
to Find Love
T
he tango of finding true love can be a difficult process for both men and women in an age where divorce rates are soaring at a record 50 and 60 percent. To help you our readers in your search for the perfect mate, we at GEM have compiled a list of the astrological signs that are said to make compatible matches. Topping our list is: Aries: Sagittarius, Gemini and Leo are the best matches for the Aries man or woman. With their gusto for life, when paired with Aries, these witty signs form vibrant relationships, fulfilling each other’s thirst for change and excitement. Both domineering signs, Leo and Aries can cause sparks to fly if they learn to share the spotlight, creating a passionate union within the bedroom that spreads to other aspects of their relationship. Aquarius: Perfect matches are Sagittarius, Libra and Gemini. Gemini’s love for communication and human interaction is part of the magnetic charm that draws and keeps these two signs together, not to mention the sexual charge they both derive from this connection. Sagittarius and Aquarius’s adventurous nature is the glue that will bind these two energetic spirits for years to come. Libra’s love for intellectual stimulation is a total turn-on for the free spirited Aquarius personality. Cancer: Cancer’s most compatible lovers are those with water and earth signs. These include Taurus, Scorpio and Virgo. Taurus cuddly and generous nature is what Cancers need to help fulfill their emotional desire for security and family stability.
A deeply emotional spirit, Scorpio’s possessive personality will help put Cancer’s distrustful nature at ease while Virgo’s generous heart and dependability will make him a keeper for the Cancer woman. Capricorn: Earth symbols like Taurus and Virgo and the water sign Pisces are this goat’s powerful romping partner. Taurus’s high value for money is a compliment and total turn-on for the Capricorn man and woman’s drive for success. Pisces ability to help loosen Capricorn’s serious side and to bring out his zest for life is the main attraction that will draw these two signs together for life. Gemini: Best matches for Geminis are air signs and fiery energetic signs. Libras, Aquarius and Aries all fit the bill as powerful matches for the Gemini twins. Gemini’s witty, adaptive, curious and imaginative nature goes well with Libra’s intellectual, social and communicative abilities. Aquarius need for variety and change is what will keep Gemini’s witty and imaginative nature stimulated for years to come while Aries is the vitamin water to the Gemini’s soul, meshing perfectly with this sign’s dual nature for fun and intellectual stimulation. Leo: Sagittarius, Aries and Gemini are the true love matches for the Leo man or woman. A passionate lover and born leader, Leo’s fire for the super sexy Aries woman will burn brighter than a wild fire as he fulfills her intense craving for his macho charm. The pairing of Leo and Gemini makes for an affectionate relationship with Leo whole heartedly loving his intriguing Gemini woman.
Text: Coretta Corbin-Rival
A happy union, Sagittarius and Leo are passionate individuals in and out of the bedroom, making for steamy sexual encounters. Libra: Ruled by Venue, the Roman goddess of love, beauty, fertility, romance and sexuality, Libras tend to live by the motto, “make love and not war.” People born under the signs Aquarius, Sagittarius and Gemini are the ones most likely to conquer the free-spirited Libra man or woman. Pisces: The most loyal and mellow of the zodiac signs, compatible partners for this sign’s dual nature are those born under the water signs Scorpio, Cancer, other Pisces, and the earth sign Capricorn. The joining of Scorpio with Pisces is the true embodiment of the phrase “opposites attract,” but when together, forms a strong bond due to their admiration for each other. S agittari u s : H u m o r a n d spontaneity are the elements this sign strives on. Aries, Aquarius and Leo are all the soul mates of Sagittarius who will never get tired of his or her jokes. These signs are not only sexually compatible, but tend to form lasting friendships as well. Scorpio: Cancer, Capricorn and Pisces are Scorpio’s most appealing partners. An intense lover, intimacy Scorpio’s forte and may cause him or her to be possessive of mates if not careful. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces all share water signs which make them the perfect mates who understand each other and strengthen their relationship. GEM 68, 2015 | 31
HEALTH BEAT
Did you know
that as of 2011 the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that there are approximately 34.2 million people living with the HIV/ AIDS virus globally?
Did you know
that emotional, mental and physical stress can have a negative effect on brain growth and development?
Did you know
that too much rest and relaxation can be detrimental to your health because inactivity causes many illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, cancer and premature death?
Did you know
that you cannot catch the common cold or the flu from being in the rain or in cold weather, but the viruses are spread through physical contact and are airborne?
Did you know
that people of color can also develop skin cancer and should use sun block to protect themselves from the sun’s rays, especially when being in the sun for long periods of time?
In the Know
Quick Health Facts to Consider
Did you know
that frequently washing your hands, even if you wear gloves to protect them from germs, is one of the simplest ways to help avoid the spread of germs?
Did you know
that the best way to help a person choking on an item is to administer abdominal thrust or the Heimlich maneuver, instead of hitting him or her on the back?
Text: Coretta Corbin-Rival
Did you know
that adults only need 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on a daily basis and children at least 60 minutes in order to maintain physical health?
Did you know
Did you know
that in 2007 cancer was the leading cause of death worldwide?
Did you know
that drinking too much water in a short period of time can kill you?
Did you know
that smoking is harmful to your health and even the secondhand smoke inhaled by non-smokers can be hazardous to one’s health?
32 | GEM 68, 2015
that women who drink too much alcohol (at least 5 drinks per day) can develop breast cancer over a period of time?
Did you know
Did you know
Did you know
that in 2002 AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis accounted for 26% of all deaths worldwide?
that obesity is one of the main causes of heart disease and heart related diseases such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cholesterol?
that consuming large amounts of alcohol during pregnancy can be harmful to your baby?
Damalle Age: 22 Location: Georgetown Occupation: Immigration Officer Hobbies: Interacting, reading and being in front of the camera Favourite quote: "There is no force equal to a woman determine to rise"
Think you have what it takes to be a GEM Beauty? Then send us a professional quality photo of yourself with the required information to: letters@gemmagonline.com
YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER.
GEM 68, 2015 | 33
F I T N E S S The fastest, safest way to get into shape… Text & Photography: Kezqweyah Yisrael
Today everyone’s asking about
getting in shape and about doing so FAST. This is because there is a real underlying desire or quest for quick results that will last. Truth is, speed isn’t the important thing, it’s Consistency. Despite the growing awareness of fitness and renewed commitment by many all over the world to getting and staying in shape, most people never reach their fitness and weight loss goals. Today the world view of a fit man and woman is not really the true image of all round body mastery. Most men that go to the gym concentrate on developing “show muscles” (chest and arms….). Several times throughout the day there’s clamor for the bench press while the leg press and the squat rack is left all alone feeling lonely. For a lot of women the reigning or prevailing thing is “toning” with the smallest dumbbells, joining ‘aerobics” and step classes with the idea of being a Shape magazine cover girl firmly etch in their minds as their ultimate goal. The new craze over treadmills, elliptical, stair climbers and all the different brands of fixed isolation resistance training machines, only began somewhere around the mid to late 1900’s. Prior to this era of
protein shakes, low carb diets, life fitness and nautilus fitness machines, it was the era of body weight training (calisthenics) and lifting of various objects that worked several muscle groups at the same time that was used for body mastery and fitness for survival. In my 25+ years being exposed to physical training (I grew up with a gym in my back yard that was all about barbells, pull-up bars (made from steel pipes and dumbbells), I‘ve seen the fittest, strongest and oldest guys (yes old guys in their 60’s and beyond in superior overall condition) with overall body symmetry doing mostly body weight or free hand training and I can’t recall them being hurt or injured from these training methods. At age 8 as well I became aware of a grandfather of mine working out every morning before the sun came up, doing pushups on bricks, pull-ups under the house etc. and today he is in his 80’s and is lean and in great shape (and he’s never been under the surgeon’s knife nor spent many days in any hospital) all a testimony that fitness training and conditioning using your own bodyweight and some free weights is all that’s needed to get you in the best shape ever safely, along with management of one’s diet. Drawing from my own experience as a Physical Trainer working with clients
one on one as well as in groups, the best, safest and quickest results occurs with BODY WEIGHT TRAINING! And all it takes is 30 to 60 minutes at least 5 days each week. Make your workouts functional and dynamic! Simply train several muscle groups at the same time (which makes it harder to sustain injuries). Also train and allow the body to recover. E.g. train the whole body today doing Strength training and the following day do a Cardio Session (run, ride swim). The other key component is diet. The key with eating is really simple. Eat fresh whole grain foods, fruits in season, and vegetables as well. If you eat meats eat lean and don’t make your meal mainly meat nor should you eat meat every day at every meal. Your digestive system as a human being wasn’t designed to consume that much meat and it is known that excessive meat consumption is linked to several types of cancers. Eliminate refined foods and sugars as much as possible, and consume food not to fill your stomach. Today most people eat too much and drink too much of the wrong kinds of food. Aim to eat about half a stomach full. Eating and training in this way (using your own body weight to get into and stay in shape) will help you to be in the best shape of your life and you’ll be able to stay there as long as you remain consistent.
Kezqweyah Yisrael is a Personal Trainer that has worked with several of Guyana’s top athletes and Sports teams. He’s the founder of TopEnd Performance Training Systems, TopCycle Spinning Programs and MotivationUnleashed. He’s also a Motivational Speaker, Seminar Leader, and Author of the forth coming book “How to Be Extraordinary in Your Field”. 34 | GEM 68, 2015
FASHION
Runway Fashion Trends G
uyana’s fashion trends have seen established and emerging designers compete with each other as well as the offthe-rack boutiques for the attention of consumers. For over a decade, GEM has had front row seats to our fashion community. It is certainly an honor and a privilege to continue featuring the top designers and cover numerous fashion events. In one way or another, we've worked with almost every designer who is worth their salt. Guyanese fashionistas have been 36 | GEM 68, 2015
pushing the envelope by taking their creative minds and patrons to new levels every time. That has never been more evident than the launch of Guyana Fashion Weekend (GFW) in 2007 by renowned designer Sonia Noel. This event saw perhaps for the first time in Guyana, the gathering of some of the best designers, makeup artistes and models from at home and in the region. Of course, there were numerous other fashion events before and after GFW that were promoted by the likes of iconic designers Donna Ramsammy-James, Michelle Cole,
Olympia Small-Sonaram, Derek Moore, Anetha Daniels, Roger Gary and many others. We have seen from the outrageous to the mild and everything in between as designers showcase their talents in lingerie, swimwear, causal, business attire, party and sportswear designs on the catwalks.
In the last few years, we have also witnessed the emergence of promising new designers like Randy Madray and Keisha Edwards who
in Guyana (2004-2014)
still remain relevant today, as they have managed to develop their own niche audiences. Many others have appeared on the scene for a brief period, only to disappear and never to be heard from again.
As of recent though, there has been a serious decline in impressive local fashion events, which is due mainly to economic constraints and limitations on the creative side by the promoters. The great diversity of our country provides for every type of designer and stakeholder with an audience
and hopefully patrons who are eager to purchase what they saw on the catwalk. Some mentor and development programmes should be launched to provide a platform to recognize talent early in the youths who may not have the desire to pursue studies through the traditional academic system.
The fashion environment must be allowed to become the pride of the nation where the people who make fashion and those who wear it feel
that they are part of a much bigger industry. Designers, media houses, institutions, schools, venues and even the government through their various ministries should work assiduously to revitalize our once exciting fashion culture. Let’s spend the next ten years making things interesting by harnessing fresh ideas and exploring fashion in interesting and unexpected ways.
GEM 68, 2015 | 37
Runway Fashion Trends in Guyana (2004-2014)
38 | GEM 68, 2015
Get a copy of this beautifully illustrated children’s book. Easy to read text meant to be read aloud to potty trained children who continue to wet their beds. PeePee PooPoo specifically addresses the issue of regression in some children who had experienced trauma during this sensitive period of their life. ABOUT the AUTHOR: Mrs. Coretta Corbin-Rival is a native of Guyana. She holds a Master of Science Degree in Human Services with a focus on Mental Health Counseling from Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts. Mrs. Corbin-Rival has over 15 years experience and training in the child care field. Soft Cover | 8.5in. x 11in. | E-Book :28 pages | Print: 28 pages You can order this masterly authored book online at www.amazon.com www.barnesandnoble.com or www.trafford.com
The Brickdam
TRAVEL
Inde pendence Arch The ‘Monument to Freedom’ - The Independence Arch was a gift to the people of Guyana on the achievement of their Independence - 1966
40 | GEM 68, 2015
MONUMENTS are masterpieces of architecture. They are as varied as their creators, expressing the collective goals, joys and sorrows of society. Throughout Guyana, the visions of our most prolific artists and sculptors have redefined events and important personas of our history. On Sunday, May 22, 1966 at 11:45 am the Honourable Prime Minister L.F.S. Burnham, as part of a week of activities to celebrate the birth of Guyana, an independent nation, unveiled the `Monument to Freedom’. The Independence Arch was handed over by the managing director of the Demerara Bauxite Company, Mr. J.G. Campbell as a gift to the people of Guyana on the achievement of their Independence.
B. Gajraj, the municipality and the people of Georgetown. In his acceptance speech of the arch, Mr. Gajraj stated that the citizens of Georgetown would treasure the monument. He added: “I charge the people of Georgetown to keep this monument in perfect order so that we can pass it to future generations in the same lustre and beauty as we have received it.” As the premier organisation for the conservation of our natural patrimony, The National Trust invites the members of the community to actively participate in the process of conservation as we strive to `Safeguard and Promote Our Heritage’, for the benefit of future generations.
Mr. Campbell stated that “it was justly fitting and proper that DEMBA should be responsible for the project as the company had been an increasingly significant economic factor in this country for the past fifty years.” He further remarked that the arch could be described as “truly Guyanese” as it was built of materials that would endure time and the elements, namely aluminium metal that was from bauxite mined and processed into aluminium in Mackenzie, and quartz stone from the Mazaruni River. The arch was designed by Canadian engineer Eric Flack. Its design was said to be “modern and unique; springing from a common rock three arches taper upwards, towards the cloud, representing the three counties of Essequibo, Berbice and Demerara. The six granite posts at the base of each arch symbolise the six peoples of Guyana. Chairman of the Arch Committee, Mr. Aubrey Barker stated that: It was proposed in later years to locate the capital’s civic and cultural precinct on the lands of D’Urban Park: in time therefore he said that the Arch would be a fitting gateway to an important civic centre. Brickdam is one of the finest streets in Georgetown lying along the centre of Stabroek, the oldest part of the city, “this site therefore at the head of Brickdam, linking our turbulent past with our exciting future”. For these reasons, Brickdam was deemed a fitting location for an arch commemorating our independence. Shortly after receiving DEMBA’s gift, the Prime Minister entrusted it into the safe keeping of City Mayor Rahaman GEM 68, 2015 | 41
Multi-Grain Waffles Text and photography: NAMILCO • 2 cups buttermilk • ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats • ½ cup chopped nuts/fruits (optional) 2 • /3 cup whole-wheat or High Fibre flour 2 • /3 cup Thunderbolt flour • ¼ cup toasted wheat germ
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ¼ teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten • ¼ cup packed brown sugar • 1 tablespoon canola oil • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preparation: 1. Mix buttermilk and oats in a medium bowl; let stand for 15 minutes. 2. Whisk whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, wheat germ (or cornmeal), baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in a large bowl. 3. Stir eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla into the oat mixture. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients; mix with a rubber spatula just until moistened. Add nuts or fruits .
42 | GEM 68, 2015
4. Coat a waffle iron with cooking spray and preheat. Spoon in enough batter to cover three-fourths of the surface (about 2/3 cup for an 8-by-8-inch waffle iron). Cook until waffles are crisp and golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter. Note: This batter can also be used for pancakes.
85% of brain growth is completed by age 3 Help bridge the DHA gap
with Enfagrow速 Toddler which supports brain development across 4 key skill areas: Cognitive, Motor, Communication and Social. Nutrition tailored for toddlers This product is not intended to be a substitute of breast milk.
GEM 68, 2015 | 43
Last seen here Last seen here Last seen here Last seen here
RANDOM PICS OF PEOPLE & EVENTS
WERE YOU THERE?
GT&T Donates $500,000 On April 29, 2015, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) donated $500,000 to Charles Rosa School of Nursing in Linden as part of the company’s social responsibility.
Photography: Carl Croker
The nursing school was founded in 1959 by Dr. Charles Roza to train healthcare providers in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) to meet the needs of the communities.
In picture from left Principal Tutor Hillary Christopher and Senior Tutor Sabina Gullin accept the donation cheque from GT&T’s Alison Parker, Anjanie Hackett and Nadia DeAbreu.
National Grade Six Assessment 2015 Photography: Ministry of Education Minister Some 15,220 candidates wrote the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) on April 1 and 2 to determine which high school they are qualified to attend if pass. When the results were announced on June 11 the top five students with the most points were Solomon Cherai of Success
Elementary with 530 points; Shania Eastman with 529 marks and; three students who tied for 3rd place with 526 points each: Celine Farinha of Peter’s Hall Primary, Shreya Persaud and Isabella Hussain of Academy of Excellence.
From left: CEO Olato Sam of the Ministry of Education, Minister of Education Dr. Roopnaraine and top student Solomon Cherai pose with other students and staff. 44 | GEM 68, 2015
Minister of Education Dr. Roopnaraine with student Celine Farinha
Y A D 3 W E N N A L P DAT0MAB for only 15
!
$499!
Get the best value data plan on the
FASTEST MOBILE
NETWOaR! K in Guyan
DATA PLAN
PRICE
1 DAY 1 DAY 3 DAY 1 WEEK 1 MONTH 1 MONTH
$220 $300 $499 $999 $2299 $2999
ACTIVATION CODE
ACTIVATION CODE
DATA
SEND TO 620-4227
SEND TO 620-4884
30MB 60MB 150MB 300MB 600MB 1GB
BB1D BB1DX BB3D BB1W BB1M BB1MX
GT1D GT1DX GT3D GT1W GT1M GT1MX
BLACKBERRY
SMARTPHONE