Dazzle Magazine Issue 20

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Allidonna George

Meet Insanely Talented Makeup Artist Go Green to Get Slim

Cherisa ‘Rissa’ Samuels Fashioning a Dream

Bank Losses are Not the End of the World

Issue 20

Fresh Biz

Yannick James

Bowing his way into our Hearts with his Magic Violin

Cufflinks Rock!

Champion, Legend, Humanitarian

Daren Sammy Try me!

XBox One S The Centrepiece of Your Home Entertainment

Post & WIN

One Amazon Fire 7“ Tablet

with Dazzle Magazine.

Here’s how to WIN 1. Follow us on Instagram 2. Take a selfie with your favourite isssue of Dazzle Magazine 3. Tag @dazzlethemag #mydazzle 4. The selfie with the most ‘ likes ’ wins

Promotion ends Friday, March 24, 2017 @ 4:00pm

@dazzlethemag

PROMOTIONAL

s m e It

TEL: (758) 453-6378 (758) 453-7260 FAX: (758) 450-2077 . exelsign@candw.lc . website:www.exelsign.com 4e-mail:exelsign@gmail.com DAZZLE www.dazzlethemag.com

//Feature

Daren Sammy Champion, Legend, Humanitarian pg. 34

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 5

limi t ed

We Create and Build Amazing Websites E: info@123digitallimited.com T: 758-452-0123 Int’l: 888-228-3312 W: www.123digitallimited.com Caribbean . UK . Canada . USA

terms and conditions apply

from the publisher Greetings Dazzle readers, and thank you for picking up our first issue for 2017.

I

can’t believe we are now publishing issue 20. The journey thus far has been challenging yet satisfying.

We’ve observed an increase in start-up businesses over the past two years and we’re very happy to see that many individuals are taking entrepreneurship seriously.

These businesses are very unique and innovative. We all saw examples of those successes at the Saint Lucia Business Awards 2017. Green Haven Fresh Farm, founded by Jameson Alphonse, captured three awards; the Prime Minister’s Award for Innovation, the Idea of the Year Award and the Green Award. Algas Organics, founded by Johanan Dujon, won the Young Entrepreneur Award.

In this issue, we have introduced a new section called Fresh Biz wherein we highlight start-up businesses. Dazzle Magazine recognises how much hard work, dedication and courage it requires to start a new business, especially in the current challenging economic climate, so we felt impelled to devote a section of our publication to showcasing those upand-coming entrepreneurs.

We have also teamed up with The Wave radio station to interview the individuals we’ve featured in the current and past issues. These interviews are video recorded and can be viewed on Dazzle Magazine’s mobile app which is available for both Android and IOS devices, and on our social media platforms.

As usual, I’m very elated to present issue 20 and the new products Dazzle Magazine have introduced. Once again, this issue features entrepreneurs who were kind enough to share the inspiring journeys with us.

Happy Reading!

Rankin Morgan Publisher/Managing Editor

Dazzle Magazine is a new and dynamic Saint Lucian bi-monthly publication that provides much-needed exposure to young professionals and entrepreneurs, and established businesses.

It covers an array of topics and categories key to starting and running a business. It also offers practical advice on everyday living, tips for a healthy lifestyle and interviews with popular and up-and-coming personalities.

Dazzle Magazine is designed to appeal to a diverse range of readers but is especially targeted at working professionals and business owners between the ages of 21-50 years. We provide our advertising clients with value for money by offering them a powerful medium to market their products, offer deals and build their brand. Best of all, we give them the opportunity to be a part of a nationwide and online marketplace of actively engaged consumers who are ready to buy, all at an affordable price.

To advertise in Dazzle Magazine, contact our sales agent via telephone (758) 452 0123 or email advertising@dazzlethemag.com for more information and terms and conditions.

table of

contents Features

16. Allidonna George - Meet the Insanely Talented Makeup Artist 24. Cherisa ‘Rissa’ Samuels - Fashioning a Dream 34. Daren Sammy - Champion, Legend, Humanitarian 44. Yannick James - Bowing his Way into Our Hearts With his Magic Violin

411

14. Bank Losses are Not The End of The World 40. Grooming Plus Barber Salon: Classic Barbering with a Modern Twist

Professional Progress

20. The Secret to Prosperity - Don’t Work for Money, Let Money Work for You 32. Fresh Biz

Mastering Marketing

28. Times are Changing – Why Not Change your Marketing Strategy

Publisher Rankin Morgan Editor Tony Williams Sales & Marketing Huanna Leon Alana M.I Morgan Art Director Aldrin Henry Contributors Dahna Jn Charles Jean Claude John Gareth S. Jules Dr. Celia McConnell-Downes Ashley Mc Lean Alana Morgan Rankin Morgan Toni Nicholas Imran St. Brice Sherin Tobie-Paul Photography Royan Descartes Aldrin Henry Jonathan Philip facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Issue 20

Health & Fitness

12. Boost Up Your Health with the Jap Pumpkin 30. Go Green to Get Slim 47. How Good is Your Smoothie?

Lifestyle

42. Cufflinks Rock

Eating In

48. Mango Granola Parfait

Gadget & Gizmos

50. XBox One S - The Centrepiece of Your Home Entertainment

Out & About

52. Out & About

Instagram

54. Port Castries

Allidonna George

-EET )NSANELY 4ALENTED -AKEUP !RTIST 'O 'REEN TO 'ET 3LIM

Cherisa ‘Rissa’ Samuels &ASHIONING a Dream

"ANK ,OSSES are Not the %ND OF THE World

&RESH "IZ

Yannick James

"OWING HIS WAY INTO OUR (EARTS WITH HIS -AGIC 6IOLIN

#UFmINKS Rock! #HAMPION

,EGEND

(UMANITARIAN

Daren Sammy Try me!

8"OX /NE 3 4HE #ENTREPIECE OF 9OUR (OME %NTERTAINMENT

On the Cover Daren Sammy

contact us

For more information visit us at www.dazzlethemag.com or call us at 758.452.0123

44

16

34

24

//Feature

Daren Sammy Champion, Legend, Humanitarian pg. 34

10 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

//Feature Meet Insanely Talented Makeup Artist

pg. 16

12 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Boost Up Your Health with the

W

e have quite a variety of fruits to snack on here in the Caribbean. Most times they are chosen for their health benefits, satisfying flavour or even their exotic look.

For those same reasons fruits are frequently chosen as a healthy alternative to the cheese puffs and sweet biscuits that many of us are drawn to when considering a snack. Without casting aspersions on other fruits and their undeniable benefits, a closer look at Jap pumpkin will reveal noteworthy perks for any fruit lover.

Jap pumpkin was originally called Kabocha squash/ pumpkin. This name is used in North America, UK and Japan. It is also known as Kent pumkin. Jap’ is short for Japanese pumpkin, which is what it is called in New Zealand and Australia. It is an Asian variety of winter squash from the species Cucurbita maxima.

Think of pumpkin and initially, ‘big, bright and orange’ come to mind. However this does not describe the Jap pumpkin. It’s quite robust in vitamins, which is probably why some people think of it this way.

Digestive Benefits If you’re a fan of Jap pumpkin, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s good for your digestive system.

Pumpkins contain considerable amounts of fibre, which is useful for a number of bodily functions.

First off, it slows the process of digestion. How does this help? It keeps you feeling fuller for longer, and

this automatically reduces the need to constantly munch on other foods. If you’re looking to control your weight, this is a key food to help you achieve that goal. ‘Fuller for longer’ might sound like you’ve consumed lots of calories but as far as that goes, pumpkins are sufficiently low in calorific content, containing only 30 calories per cup.

Furthermore, canned pumpkin is mostly water-based, making it a great hydration alternative, as well as a safe way to restore electrolytes.

Improves Your Vision Pumpkins are packed with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A upon digestion. Overtime, this helps the eyes adapt to dim and low-light conditions.

When it comes to optical health, carrots are the go-to solution, but scientific findings have shown that pumpkins are worthy alternatives. This plentiful intake of Vitamin A also boosts the body’s ability to fight infectious diseases.

Look and Feel Youthful In addition to helping you see the world more clearly, the pumpkin keeps you looking young as well. The large amounts of beta-carotene present in pumpkins protect the skin against UV rays, typically emitted from the sun. And of course, pumpkin face masks are admired for helping to maintain a youthful look.

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 13

Bank Losses are Not the End of the World

By Gareth S. Jules

I

n recent times several banks locally recorded losses on their books, sparking debates among people from all walks of life. Everyone seemed to have an opinion on what should have been done and why losses were recorded.

The sad reality is that not many people are informed about the reasons why banks, in particular, continue to record losses over a consistent period of time. It is very important that everyone pays attention to what goes on with our banks but one should not panic because of mere public perception. Panic can cause chaos and make things more complicated for a bank.

The purpose of this article is to highlight a few ways in which banks record losses and become insolvent.

14 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

We must first establish where a bank’s stream of income and its profits are generated from.A company’s profit is all the revenue left over after all the expenses the business incurs have been deducted from the income received. Banks derive most of their income from fees, interest income on investments and loans. Profits are recorded when the bank pays all its operational costs and interest on your savings.

If a bank is unable to pay its debts, and ultimately the interest on your deposits, it will eventually become insolvent. The first course of action for a bank making losses is to evaluate its operational costs, interest paid to you, the depositor, and finally, its loan portfolio.

One needs to be aware that when a bank gives loans to its customers, it records this as an asset. If the banks are owing to other parties more than it is owed, its assets (especially loans) are worth less than its liabilities i.e. depositor funds, shareholders capital etc.

As mentioned earlier, one of the main sources of income for a bank is interest on loans provided. In reality, not all loans given will be properly serviced.

When loans are classified as non-performing, the bank must incur the expense and write it off as a bad debt.

Banking regulations require that a bank holds a certain percentage of its capital as a provision for bad loans.

This enables the bank to give a more accurate picture of its financial position.

However, what happens when that provision is not adequate and a bank is forced to write off more than it was supposed to? It means that its capital will eventually erode. The value of its shares will decrease (capital erosion) and the shareholders will not get paid dividends. As a result, a bank has to reevaluate its lending policies, try to recover non-performing loans and look for capital injection.

There is no need to panic when it is reported in the news that a bank is making losses or is being taken over by other banks. Normally, this is done to ensure that depositor funds are protected and the livelihood and jobs of its employees are safeguarded. No economy can afford to have any of its commercial banks fail, especially if most of its shares are owned by the public purse. Banks must ensure that they implement proper credit risk policies and investment practices so that they can continue to make profits and remain solvent.

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 15

Meet Insanely Talented Makeup Artist

GEORGE

by Dahna Jn Charles

T

here I was scrolling down my Facebook newsfeed when I came across what looked like M.I.B. had caught an undercover alien mid transformation. I couldn’t help clicking on the photo to marvel at this work of art. Shortly thereafter, I thought, ‘Man, that’s a lot of black body paint, and she did this on herself just for practice? That’s going to be hard to get off her bathroom tiles.’ I almost always have the same thought every time I come across one of her creations but, most of all, I end up awestruck. Her attention to detail is impeccable. Her ability to create such lifelike looks is impressive. Allidonna George is definitely one to keep an eye on.

16 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

In her not so distant girl days, Alli played steel pan with the legendary Diamond Steel Orchestra for over a decade. It has been three years since she played pan, although it is still dear to heart, and she avidly follows the happenings at regional panorama events.

Originating from Entreport, Alli is a graduate of St. Joseph’s Convent and the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College- Division of Technical Education and Management. As a child, she used to be fascinated by the stars and the many constellations and dreamed of one day becoming an astronomer.

She has retained her fascination but her ambitions

have since changed to painting night-sky-like images onto faces and bodies.

Back in 2012, while working as an accounts clerk, Alli started dabbling in beauty makeup, learning what she could from YouTube videos and Instagram tutorials.

Her first clients were her cousin’s bridal party. Her passion for makeup soon took precedence over her accounting skills. In 2013, the company Alli was employed with closed down, leaving her jobless. To support herself financially, Alli turned her passion for makeup into a fulltime career. This self-taught artistic virtuoso subsequently became the founder of ‘Makeup With Alli’, which specialises in beauty and special effects makeup artistry.

Dazzle got Allidonna to take a break from her brushes and palettes and talk to us about her passion for makeup artistry and her growing business.

Dazzle: When did you acknowledge to yourself you were going to be a ‘makeup artist’?

Allidonna: I think people kind of did that for me… because at first it was just a trial and then I posted my work on my social network platforms and people would comment and compliment me for being such a great makeup artist and then I thought to myself, “Hmm maybe I am.”

perfects it to the ‘T’. The detailing is phenomenal; exposed flesh, blood, boils, bumps, and wrinkles. All of it will leave you amazed.

Dazzle: Does it pay to invest in brand-name products?

Allidonna: Sometimes more expensive or high end does not always mean better. There are always products in the drugstore you can find that are just as good. Don’t fall for the hype. It comes with experimenting which comes at a cost… but it is all part of the process of learning what works best for you. You can buy the most high end palettes but then your clients don’t look as sophisticated as the palette.

Dazzle: What is your vision for ‘Makeup with Alli’?

Allidonna: My ultimate goal is to have my own makeup studio and product line. In terms of growing the business, right now I am focused on exploring new avenues for advertising and promotion, rather than strictly using social media. I also plan to provide more in-depth, high-quality makeup tutorials via my YouTube channel, once I acquire the proper equipment. (You can always contact her for your private one-on-one tutorial).

Dazzle: What did your family and friends think when you told them you intend to take up makeup artistry as a career?

Allidonna: They thought I was crazy. At first they didn’t believe in it. “You sure? You going to be able to live off of THAT. You going to do that alone? ...

Why don’t you apply for a job and do this on a side?”

Three years later, still going strong, they are believers (LOL). As for a support system in a true sense, I do this mostly on my own.

Dazzle: Do family and friends respect your business or are there lots of requests for freebies?

Allidonna: They do now! I make it very clear that business is business. If I want to, I may give a discount or gift it depending on the occasion but they definitely respect my work and pay me fairly.

Dazzle: What sets you apart from your competitors?

Allidonna: There are many beauty makeup artists.

While I also specialise in beauty makeup application, I think what makes me standout is my special effects work.

Allidonna is a lover of fantasy fiction movies, from which she draws her special effects makeup inspiration. From colourful skeletons, to the Ice Queen, the Grinch and even werewolves, Allidonna

fun facts

What do you have for breakfast?

I love pancakes!

What can’t you do without?

My laptop. I need it to watch my movies.

Soursop or carambola juice?

Soursop!

What’s your newest hobby?

I’m foodie, so I enjoy going to different restaurants to try out the food and critique it. Who knows, it might be a spin off career. LoL

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 17

Dazzle: Of all your beauty transformations, which is your most memorable?

Allidonna: There was this one client who wasn’t really into makeup and just wanted to try something different. She wanted to see how makeup would refresh not only her face but her life. When I was done and handed her the mirror, tears of shock and joy streamed down her face. She just never imagined that she could look how she looked with make up.

Dazzle: Where has this four-year long journey taken you?

Allidonna: I often reflect on how I started practicing on myself and then my cousin was crazy and brave enough to have me as the makeup artist for her big day. Now I’m having a real Drake moment (LOL). I’m now being hired for major pageants on island. I’ve had my own segment on Island Beats on the Visitor Channel called ‘Glam Tips’ I’ve been fortunate to work with artistes for performances and music videos. I’ve been featured in blogs and now magazines. I mean who would have thought I would have been featured in Dazzle?

We wish Alli all the best and look forward to seeing more of her amazing transformations!

...MAKING LIFE EASY

Life just got easier MEAL

D E LIVERY OF

GROCERY MEDICATION GENERAL COURIER C OMI N G MARCH 2017

www.quickdeliveryslu.com | 719-FAST (3278) | info@quickdeliveryslu.com

FREE SECOND DELIVERY WITH COUPON CODE 18 DAZZLE www.dazzlethemag.com

COUPON CODE

DZMAR

...MAKING LIFE EASY

Special Conditions apply. Coupon code must be presented!

//Feature pg. 24

Cherisa ‘Rissa’ Samuels Fashioning a Dream

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 19

The Secret to Prosperity

- Don’t Work for Money, Let Money Work for You

by Shirin Tobie-Paul

B

efore you decide to become a business owner, ensuring that your financial and success blueprints are compatible with your dreams is of paramount importance.

What did you learn about money during childhood?

Have you changed any of those ideas? Who were your models of success?

I recently heard someone say, “Why don’t movie stars take some of their money and just throw it into the crowds! They certainly have enough.”

Those were astounding words! Are you harbouring such nonsensical ideas about money? Such disrespect for the success of others? If you are, it may be time for a reprogramming.

Most of us are familiar with the mantras ‘money doesn’t grow on trees’ and ‘you have to work hard for your money.’ I don’t think that we have to work hard for anything, let alone money. Money should work for you. Even when you are asleep. Working smart and effectively should be the order of the day!

20 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Managing your money and success blueprints go hand in hand with intention. Having a business is about serving, be it a service or product-oriented enterprise. The manner in which you provide a service and your intentions, coupled with your ability to be a good steward of the money you earn determine the outcome you receive.

Create your own vision of what success means to you.

We don’t all want the same things. Create your own benchmarks. Success is relative.

In his book ‘Secrets of the Millionaire Mind (Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth),’ Harv Eker asks three questions which are helpful in all areas of life, particularly when it pertains to money and achieving success.

• What did you hear when you were young?

• What did you see when you were young?

• What did you experience when you were young?

Swapping antiquated paradigms for new and productive ones should be at the top of your vision for your venture.

Lisa Nichols, the author of Abundance Now - Amplify Your Life and Achieve Prosperity Today who went from welfare to Wall Street offers this powerful affirmation: ‘My efforts and diligent work today create financial freedom for generations to come. I am able to shift the trajectory of my family’s life through my decisions today.’

How are your blueprints working out for you? Are they facilitating your vision? If yes, keep building! If your answer is no, revisit them!

All the best with reconstructing!

YOUR ECO-FRIENDLY

TYRE SPECIALISTS Cars Jeeps Trucks Motorcycles . . . and more

Linmore Industrial Warehouse Faux A Chaud, Millenium Highway Castries, St. Lucia

t: 758 451 8478 Weekdays: 7:30am - 5:00pm m: 758 730 3311 Saturdays: 8:00am - 3:00pm 21 e: ubaidullah76@yahoo.com Sundays: Appointments www.dazzlethemag.com DAZZLE Only

DROP WHAT YOU’RE DOING

visit our online store

SH O P NOW VI SI T WW W. THESEEVENTGUYS. CO M T: 758-284-4499 | E: info@theseeventguys.com GET 10% OFF USE PROMO CODE: MAGIC TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. www.dazzlethemag.com

22 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 23

F

or Cherisa ‘Rissa’ Samuels, founder of Rissa’s Eclectik Kouture, bagging a sweet dream was as easy as first believing in one. It all started in 2014, following her quest to lose weight, when one night she dreamt of making a bag. Dumbfounded by the connection to her weight loss journey, she nonetheless woke up at 2:00 am that morning and was led to sketch what she had envisaged.

Now, two years later, she has gone from bags to wishes as she watches her newfound passion unfold into a thriving business.

Rissa has since participated in a number of regional and local fashion events, including Barbados and Guyana Fashion Week and ‘Strut for a Cause’ right here in Saint Lucia, among numerous other events.

Dazzle Magazine recently caught up with Rissa at her store, Rissa’s Eclectik Kouture on the second floor of the JQ Mall in Rodney Bay. The store caters to unique clothing and bags hinged on Afrocentric colours and patterns for men, women and children. It also carries beaded pieces from Africa to complement the designer’s various lines.

24 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Cherisa‘Rissa’ Samuels Fashioning a Dream

By Toni Nicholas

Dazzle: How did all of this get started and did you ever see yourself where you are right now?

Rissa: Designing has always been a part of me, I would say, even though I did not realise that at first.

Both of my parents were potters and my mother, besides the pottery, would do a little bit of seamstress work, cake decorating ‌ in fact anything to do with creativity, she was the go-to person.

But I never saw myself getting involved in anything creative at first because I was never interested in anything they did. But fast forward to 2014 when I found myself waking up from a dream where someone was showing me how to make a bag, and from there this all happened.

Dazzle: A dream? Tell us more about that.

Rissa: Well, I had just been going through this weight loss journey when I had this dream one night where I was making a bag. Mind you, I had never sewn anything before. So I woke up at 2:00 am and decided to sketch what I had seen in the dream. I later bought a machine and ended up making the very bag I had dreamt of. From there I just started designing and sewing bags and that just took off.

Dazzle: So how did the transition come about from bags to clothing?

Rissa: Well, from there I decided to try different things. I tried making a skirt, which was a disaster to say the least because every stitch burst when I put it on. But every time I failed it just made me want to try even harder. So it went from the skirt to shirts and dresses and then I started to post things online and the positive reaction to the pieces I had created was overwhelming.

Dazzle: That must have been very encouraging and some form of incentive to press on.

Rissa: Indeed! So from there the love and the passion just grew and grew and I just kept putting myself in the positions where opportunities would present themselves.

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 25

Dazzle: Talking about opportunities, what was the first fashion event you participated in?

Rissa: The very first show was Fashion Fusion, a fashion show at the JQ Mall in 2014. I approached the supervisor of the mall and asked for a chance to be a part of the event, which incidentally was for mall tenants only and I wasn’t at the time. But I was eager, since Richard Young of Trinidad and Sonia Noel of Guyana were part of this event. And so I was allowed, and received some really great reviews from both Young and Noel and this boosted me even further, and made me want to continue.

Dazzle: Quite a journey indeed because now, incidentally, you are actually a tenant of the JQ Mall.

When did you start?

Rissa: Well the store, Rissa’s Eclectik Kouture opened in March 2016 and that came from growth in business. Customers had started flooding my home which quickly outgrew me and so I needed a place to house my pieces, as well as somewhere that my customers and new clients could come in to. That’s when I decided to open up this place at the JQ Mall.

fun facts Best complement you’ve received?

You’re cute What question you hate to answer?

How old are you Who is your hero?

My Mommy What is your greatest strength?

I don’t know how to quit Your favorite song at the moment?

Hello by Adele Dazzle: How has it been going?

Rissa: It has been great! I cannot complain. We opened just before the Jazz Festival and we did a tremendous amount of business throughout the festival and into carnival in July. September was a little slow but in October for Kweyol Heritage Month and into the festive season, things have been really good.

I have also been scouting around for other up-andcoming designers with the intention of making this place a hub to foster greater appreciation for the works of talented regional designers and to encourage persons to wear our own.

26 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Dazzle: And finally from us, what’s in store for Rissa, where do you see yourself in the future?

Rissa: In the immediate future, to establish another branch locally, possibly in the south and then spread out to the Caribbean. I met this gentleman in Trinidad who wants me to have an outlet there, so that’s the dream - to see Rissa’s Eclectik Kouture in Port of Spain, Bridgetown, Kingston, Milan, New York, London, Paris … I’m just really excited about the future for Rissa’s Eclectik Kouture; we are definitely going places and following the dream.

//Feature

pg. 34

Daren Sammy Champion, Legend, Humanitarian

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 27

Times are Changing – Why Not Change your Marketing Strategy

By Rankin Morgan

M

arketing is a form of communication between you and your customers with the goal of selling your product or service to them. Communicating the value of your product or service is a key aspect of marketing.

information about your service or product. Potential customers also need to know how to best follow up for more details.

It’s about building relationships that cultivate loyalty.

The result may yield more sales but customers want authenticity in their business relationships. A smart marketing strategy can make the difference between solidifying customer relationships and losing them.

Often, the first step for a business leader is knowing where to start.

With modern social media and other Internet tools, marketing dollars can be stretched to maximize ROI (return on investments). With simple analytics, businesses can collect useful data about clients and their needs and uncover patterns of behaviour that can refine marketing efforts over time.

In addition to becoming familiar with the array of available online tools, it helps to have a clear, centralised marketing message that includes precise 28 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Growing your Business Advertising a product or service within the context of the corporate story or brand history lets customers know what the organization’s values are and the sort of product or service it is promoting. When done skilfully the advertising, story line, images and

language all work together in a marketing campaign to increase public interest and generate new leads.

Once clients are hooked on the story, it is easier to get them to take the next step.

While some managers have a better instinct for marketing than others, the skills to market a business can be learned and adapted to a variety of business settings. Online courses taught by industry leaders provide an opportunity to learn how to be a marketing manager while acquiring the most current skills that reflect trends in consumer habits and industry data.

Building Your Brand You don’t need a huge marketing budget to catch the attention of people who are likely to support your brand. A good first step is to provide a clear and precise message about the company in language customers find relevant. Taking the time to prepare a comprehensive marketing strategy and skillfully rolling it out will keep customers engaged in the brand, build brand recognition and gain customer loyalty.

Knowing the competition is just as important as knowing the intricacies of your own products and services. A message that clearly tells customers how your business outshines the competition and offers a better product or a superior service for a better price can contribute to a larger ROI on marketing dollars spent.

Learn About Your Customers’ Expectations It is also essential to know as much as possible about customers and clients. Offering special rewards or incentives to support a brand only works if a business knows what interests clients or what they want. You should also try and find out how they search for products and services and what they expect from a business relationship.

Marketing ultimately is about attracting clients and thereby, growing profits. However, those gains come about only if your business is successful at achieving the initial goal of building a brand by cultivating honest relationships that promote your product or service, and by creating credibility and trust in the company.

Customers and clients are becoming more discerning and they do their research thoroughly. Knowing what products and services they are comparing and their needs, and what features or perks tip the balance in favor of one company over the other, requires research, strong marketing acumen and your knowledge of the market must be accurate and up to date. This is the only way you will be able to address intelligent consumers effectively using a message that resonates deeply with the people you want to attract to your business.

T H I S C OU LD BE YOU RS

ADV E RT I S E WI TH US To advertise in The Dazzle Magazine, contact our sales agent via telephone (758) 452 0123 or email sales@dazzlethemag.com for more information.

www.dazzlethemag.com

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 29

Go Green to Get Slim

By Jean Claude John

M

any people try different diets, follow different tips and tricks, looking for the most complicated way to achieve the body of their dreams, and ignoring the truth just because it seems too simple.

A simple way we all can consume more greens and get slim for the New Year is to include a green smoothie now and then in our daily diet.

Do you remember as a child how our parents tried to make us eat our greens even though we never wanted to? Well, studies have shown that green leafy vegetables hold the secret to rapid fat loss and they are also rich in all the antioxidants, vitamins and minerals our bodies need to burn fat and build muscle.

Whoever believes that you can’t receive protein from greens is absolutely wrong. Greens actually contain more protein per gram in comparison to meat. I guess there is something to the huge vegan phenomenon going on around the world, after all.

It’s important to understand that all the nutrients we need for healthy living can be extracted from the fruits and vegetables of the earth and there’s really no need to consume the animals who share the planet with us.

30 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Having a smoothie for breakfast offers many benefits.

It gives the body all the vitamins and minerals it needs to kick start your day, speed up your metabolism and energize your cells for more productivity at work or at school, or for whatever activities you may be involved in.

Another simple tip is to remove all carbohydrates from your evening meals simply because those carbs would not be utilised by your body while it is in a state of rest. They would just be turned into stored energy (fat), which we usually end up not using because we continually ingest more and more carbohydrates.

If you feel hungry in the evenings, try eating salads with your choice of protein, a smoothie or some fruit.

Any of these would be a better option than ingesting large amounts of carb meals at night that would build the gut instead of slimming it down. Better health, increased energy and that amazing body of your dreams are waiting for you on the other side of those greens, so eat up and get slim.

"The Buersethas Gift NaOtffer" to

Nature's

Best

The Natural & Herbal Goods Store Shop #6 M&C Plaza • Jeremie Street • Castries Tel: 451 - 6633 or 722 - BEST Email: naturesbestslu@gmail.com

Our Products are Chemical Free • Alcohol Free Animal By-product Free

Visit Us Today

from our wide range of products: HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS FROM OUR FARMACY NATURAL REMEDIES BEAUTY PRODUCTS ALL NATURAL SOAPS ORIENTAL PERFUMES (ZERO ALCOHOL) STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY NUTS SEEDS & GRAINS HERBAL WEIGHT LOSS SOLUTIONS NATURAL MALE ENHANCERS ESSENTIAL OILS & INCENSE FRESH ROASTED COFFEE AND MORE.....

NO REGISTRATION FEE & HALF OFF FOR A FRIEND

with presentation of Coupon

DAZZLE 31 MONGIRAUD, GROS ISLET | www.dazzlethemag.com FOR MORE DETAILS CALL 451-2496

Dazzle Magazine introduces

Never Give Up Clothing: Fashion with a Positive Message

C

lothes are, no doubt, a necessity that we all cherish. Most of us have that ‘favourite tee shirt’ or that pair of pants that bring back countless memories. Some of us even dare to create our own clothing, in an attempt to add our spin or flare to this common necessity.

Marshall Celestine, founder of ‘Never Give Up Clothing’ is grounded in his belief that clothing can go beyond being an everyday essential, to empowering and motivating people to be confident and enjoy life.

Fresh Biz is a section within Dazzle Magazine dedicated to providing start-up companies and their founders with much needed exposure.

If you wish to be profiled in Fresh Biz Column please contact us at (758) 452 0123 or email freshbiz@dazzlethemag.com

Born and raised in Vieux Fort, Marshall attended C.A.R.E. (Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education) until he migrated to Toronto, Canada when he was 16. During his seven-year tenure at school (while earning his diploma in tourism and travel) his professor at the time made a simple gesture of giving him a piece of paper. This small gesture was the first thread that would weave together the dream that is now NGU Clothing. As you might’ve imagined, written on the paper were the words ‘Never Give Up.’ After a half-decade of perseverance, the official launch and very first fashion show for NGU Clothing took place on June 18, 2016 in Ottawa.

“Everyone has a story...”- so says Marshall Celestine Marshall believes that everyone can relate to the positive message that his clothes embody. His goal is to tap into everyone’s ‘story’ and inspire them to push on despite the challenges they may encounter in life.

32 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Welcome to Mandiana’s Edenic Garden of Vegan

House of Balloons 758 - Making Memories That Will Last A Lifetime

A

W

For this reason Mandiana Auguste decided in October (2016) to offer a healthy alternative to the typical fare that is served here in St. Lucia, at her new business appropriately named ‘Garden of Vegan.’

‘House of Balloons 758’ is where it’s all at. Located on Instagram and Facebook @HouseofBalloons758, the online delivery-based service has “bloomed and blossomed very quickly” according to one of the founding members, Aljay Scott. Together with his business partner, Kandice Delice, they founded their business in July 2016. Since then, orders have been rolling in rapidly, even as far as California!

healthy lifestyle is something that many people strive to maintain. However, we seem to hear more people talking about it rather than trying to achieve it. During such conversations, it’s hard to avoid the topic of exercise, and dieting in particular. Arguably, ‘a vegan diet’ is becoming an increasingly popular catch phrase and it goes hand-in-hand with healthy living.

Garden of Vegan is an all-vegan food delivery service. Weekly menus are published on Sundays on their Facebook page and Instagram account, @ gardenofveganslu. Customers can place their orders through social media or over the phone (285-7777) and their meals are delivered to their workplace between the hours of 10:30 a.m and 1:30 p.m. Presently, deliveries are made to locations in between Castries and Gros Islet.

Being a meticulous person by nature, Mandiana initially encountered some challenges in her efforts to establish high professional standards for her business, and she continues to remain faithful to her cause.

To Mandiana, Garden of Vegan is not just about delivering food, it is about providing her customers with an exciting and delectable alternative and a truly healthy meal that they can enjoy every day of the week.

ho doesn’t love to celebrate? An 18th birthday party, the wedding of two soul mates, even a college graduation are all equally worthy of being etched in our memories. Apart from the joy and togetherness, one thing that all of the events above have in common is that they all require balloons. Balloons are so simple yet essential to a great party or celebratory gathering.

Perhaps the most popular birthday accessories nowadays are giant number balloons. Alongside these, House of Balloons offers birthday sashes and badges, candles, rose petals, helium balloon filling, balloon arches and many more decor-related products that are sure to add flare to your event.

Experiencing these moments for yourself is only half of the bigger picture. House of Balloons offers discounted quality photography for the duration of any event, upon request.

Instagram: houseofballoons758 Facebook: house of balloons 758/@balloons758 Contact Numbers 726-7272/728-2898

Instagram and Facebook: @gardenofveganslu Contact Numbers 285-7777

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 33

34 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Daren Sammy D Champion, Legend, Humanitarian

by Gareth S. Jules

aren Sammy is the first St. Lucian to ever play international cricket. He’s also a multiple Sportsman of the Year award recipient, the only captain to ever win two World T-20 tournaments, the only active player to have a national cricket stadium named after him, and the list goes on.

Daren has achieved so much, it is almost impossible to not label him a LIVING LEGEND. He’s also married and a father of three (3) children, and a humble humanitarian. We sat down with Daren Sammy for a candid interview about his rise to cricketing fame, his achievements, his family, the loss of his captaincy and the launch of his foundation.

Dazzle: Tell us about Daren Sammy’s rise in the world of cricket a cricket.

Daren: I grew up in an area where West Indies cricket was dominant. Everywhere you passed, cricket was played. It has always been a favorite sport of mine. I had a passion for cricket from school. Then I moved on to West Indies Under 19, and the rest is history.

Dazzle: Describe the day you received the call welcoming you to the West Indies cricket team.

Daren: I remember that day very clearly. I was at Lords on the MCC young cricketers program.

New Zealand was playing England. As a part of the program, we helped during test matches. In the changing room, I got a call from Zorol Barthley, the COO of West Indies, around 1:00 pm GMT. The caller ID showed 268, which is Antigua’s area code. On the other end of the line, Zorol said that he was calling to inform me of my selection for the WI tour to England.

I ran all around Lords! From the changing room, I ran across the training grounds into the coaches’ room and jumped on Clive Bradley. I was hugging everybody and making noise. It was a great day that May! Dazzle: When you joined West Indies, how did the team embrace you?

Daren: I met some of the guys at Heathrow Airport at the beginning of the tour in Ireland. Brian Lara was the captain. I knew a few of the guys before because we played together in Under 19 and the regionals. It was a humbling experience. Here I was dreaming of

making the team and playing with Brian Lara who was my idol. It was quite emotional but a challenge that I was prepared to handle. Gayle, Hinds, Collymore and the senior guys embraced me.

Dazzle: Six years after you began your career with West Indies, you were asked to captain the team at a time when people thought West Indies cricket was at an all-time low. Tell us about your decision to accept the captaincy.

Daren: I never dreamt of captaining the West Indies team. I always saw myself as a player but never once did I dream of captaining. After we had a few strikes, Gayle got stripped off his captaincy. During that time there was a criterion to be the captain; you had to accept the retainer. Gayle did not accept it, neither did the vice-captain Bravo, so I was asked to captain.

I thought long and hard about it. I spoke to my family and my mentors. When I went to the interview in Jamaica, out of the three or four candidates, they chose me.

I wanted to bring pride back into the game. I wanted us to play with more passion. All that would have been challenging because I wasn’t the best player. People thought I shouldn’t make the team, much less be the captain. It was quite challenging but my record as a leader during that period shows that I brought back stability to the team, won two World Cups, got the team back into the top five, won six test matches in a row and got us competing again. That is what the public wanted to see at the time.

Dazzle: How would you describe your style of captaincy?

Daren: As a leader I try to incorporate everybody into the decision making, in a way that they still understand that I am the captain. I respect my players.

I like to motivate them, using words of affirmation and positive thinking. They know that my door is always open, on or off the field. My players come first. I love to stress on being a team, even though there is individual brilliance. A bowler needs a fielder, a batsman needs a partner. Everything was geared towards what is required for a team. Over the years, Daren as a world leader in cricket is what stands out.

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 35

Dazzle: As an international sportsman, you travel a lot and spend a lot of time away from home. How do you and your family deal with your constant absences from home?

Daren: Skype, Facetime and IMO keep us connected.

2016 was the first time in five years that I was home for Christmas. It’s quite demanding and difficult because I have young children and a wife. She understands.

She’s been there for the fourteen years of my career.

Credit goes to her for holding down everything when I’m not around. It’s something that is difficult but I thank God every day for my blessings that when I am on tour, I can focus on the game knowing that my wife takes care of everything back home.

Dazzle: You’re known as an all rounder but what position are you most comfortable with?

Daren: I enjoy batting more than anything. I enjoy being under pressure to do something special to make your team win. It’s the best feeling you can ever have, knowing that you did it for your team when everyone is relying on you.

Dazzle: What do you do in your spare time when you’re not playing cricket?

Daren: Touring gives you a lot of alone time. I love being in my room, listening to music, reflecting, visualizing for future games and so on. When I’m not thinking about cricket, if there is a pool I go lay next to it with my music and phone to relax and chill.

fun facts

Wake up Time?

7:30 am when I am home with the kids.

Last Gift you gave to someone?

Baby Alive Doll to my daughter for Christmas Can you play any musical instruments?

Recorder One Accomplishment that you’re most proud of?

Professionally, the two world cups.

Personally, my sexy wife.

Favorite TV show? The Voice Least favourite foods? Green Figs Dazzle: Who is Daren Sammy’s backbone?

Daren: For the past fourteen years my wife has been my backbone. She’s the one who keeps me grounded and is also my biggest critic. Let’s not forget my parents, especially my mom and my kids. I do all I do for their future. There is also Mr. Geoffrey Stewart, 36 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

my friend and financial advisor, as well as Dr. Ernest Hillarie and many others, such as my aunts, especially Aunty Sé’sé. These people are constantly on their knees praying for me. My family is and will always be my backbone.

Dazzle: In 2013, you were drafted into the St. Lucia Zouks in the T20 Cricket Tournament. As a St. Lucian, what did this mean for you?

Daren: That in itself was a big plus for the Caribbean.

Having our own CPL, and for St. Lucia to have its own franchise is really good. 2016 was the best year we ever had. As a result, we have attracted more sponsors and were sold to a private owner. In 2017 we will be competing as an owned franchise. I thought we would win last year but in the next two to five years we will win at least two. I am really looking forward to the new team in August.

Dazzle: How did you react to the news that you had been relieved of the captaincy back in August 2016?

Daren: It was disappointing. I don’t think any captain has won a world cup and not played after that. A great performance in the CPL is one of the criteria for selection for T-20. But throughout my career I’ve always had disappointments. After disappointments, I smile because I know somewhere around the corner there’s a blessing coming for me. That’s how it has always been. I haven’t closed the WI chapter as a player but I am more focused now on my services which are in demand all over the world. It’s funny that I have been discarded as a leader and a player by my own cricket board but when I play all over the world I am regarded as one of the better leaders.

Recently I was in Bangladesh, captaining a team with no stars and we got to the finals. The respect given to me was amazing. I have also been named captain of the Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Premier League. I’ve captained teams in South Africa and other IPL teams. The world sees me as a leader but things are different back home. I have not let those disappointments bring me down. I’ve always rose in the face of adversity and that’s what I will continue to do. 2017, my train is moving very fast. I won’t let anything stop me by the grace of God. I will continue moving forward.

up, people took time out to help in my own personal development. The work that I do with the foundation I’ve been doing for years, but I have not been open about it. I don’t help people to get public attention. I genuinely have a passion to help young people.

I would love to take credit for everything but the start up team (close friends and family) and committee, headed by my wife Cathy Daniel-Sammy, have done a great job. While it has been difficult to get sponsors, I must thank Digicel who came on as an official partner from inception. A few other companies such as Peter & Company Distribution, Royal Bank of Canada and Unicomer have given contributions, but I have been funding the foundation on my own. I would also like to thank everyone who purchased DSF merchandise (shirts, bags and caps) and other memorabilia. This has helped fund the foundation. That’s where I get my blessings from. We launched in August (2016) but

by September I gave full scholarships to ten kids from form one to five, as well as to two others in primary school. It’s a five year program. Every year I will be looking to add more. As much as I may want to take the praise, it’s the DSF team that makes everything happen, so I must thank them.

Dazzle Magazine would like to wish Darren Sammy all the best in his future endeavors

Dazzle: If you were asked, would you captain the West Indies team again?

Daren: To be honest, I don’t see that happening. I don’t want to work under the current establishment with the current men at the top. I will always do what I can to help WI cricket and the players but under the current administration, I don’t see that happening.

If it changes, definitely. I see we have Jimmy Adams who is a good man coming into a broken system. It’s going to be very tough for him to implement the changes and have the structure that I know he could put together to push WI forward. Under the current structure, there is a lack of leadership. Any business or team which lacks leadership will crumble. That is what has been happening for the past few years. I have not closed the door on playing for WI but I am looking forward to giving my services where it’s required.

I’ve given so much of my time to WI Cricket and what it stands for but the individuals in the current administration don’t understand what WI means to the people. I can’t keep kicking against the brick.

Dazzle: In 2016 you launched the Daren Sammy Foundation (DSF). What was the inspiration behind the move?

Daren: For me, it was about helping young people.

It came from my own personal experiences. Growing

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 37

//Feature

Bowing his way into our Hearts with his Magic Violin pg. 44

38 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 39

Grooming Plus Barber Salon: Classic Barbering with a Modern Twist

F

or most of us, a barbershop is a place to freshen up for a business meeting or for the new school year, or just to enjoy the social setting that often comes with most barbershops.

However, since its establishment in April 16, 2016, Grooming Plus Barber Salon has consistently offered more than just the typical barber services of a haircut, a hairline ‘mark’ and shave, and eyebrow shaping for the ladies.

Even before he opened for business, founder and owner, Gerard Townsend had envisioned a barber salon that would be a haven of comfort, relaxation and pleasure - a place where his clients could kick up their heels, sit back and enjoy the professionalism of his service. The amount of effort, care and attention he puts into every aspect of the business is clearly intentinal and proves that Gerard is determined to make Grooming Plus Barber Salon a cut above the rest.

40 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

As with all successful businesses, it takes teamwork to make the dream work. Gerard realised he couldn’t do it all by himself but fortunately for him he was able to team up with Dwight “Jojo” Joseph who, in his words, is extremely talented and passionate about his career as a barber. Even after assembling a larger team

to help manage the daily operations of the business, Gerard and ‘Jojo’ refused to become complacent, as evidenced by their determination to stay up to date and on top of their game with the latest trends in barbering.

Grooming Plus is located in Suite 8 of the Evergreen Plaza at Rodney Heights, with parking available roundthe-clock in a safe and secure environment. Doors open from 8:00 am Monday to Sunday. They offer an array of services, including waxing, manicures and pedicures, gel nails, braiding and weaving, natural hair styling, bleaching and colouring, haircuts with a hot towel treatment and much more. Payments are made at the receptionist’s desk, either in cash, VISA Debit/Credit card or MasterCard. Wi-Fi service is also available. Feel free to ask for the WiFi password when you get there! Clients can walk in or call to schedule an appointment.

are quite a few, any of which is sure to keep you occupied while you wait. For starters, there are two wall-mounted HD monitors. One is hooked up to a PlayStation 3 console for customers who double up as gamers, while the other is either tuned in to the latest international news or live sports broadcasts, including some of the most hotly anticipated matches and tournaments. And if you’re in the mood to share, you can stream content from your own mobile device to one of the monitors via a connected Chromecast.

Venture further into the barber salon and you’ll find a coffee table packed with the latest reading material (including Dazzle Magazine!) for those who love to read. From this seating section you will notice an entrance leading to another room. This is the spot dedicated to the salon’s natural hair stylist and the technician.

For clients pressed for time, appointments can be made over the phone (tel. 458-0825) with any one of the four barbers. This will cost an extra EC$5. If waiting is not an option, you’ll find that it’s more than worth it.

Before you make your way to any one of the four barber chairs, you’re sure to notice a snack rack and a full-sized refrigerator packed with a variety of drinks, both of which are conveniently located next to the waiting section.

After you’ve gotten yourself something to munch on, you have the entertainment options, and there

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 41

CUFFLINKS ROCK! Yeah – they’re great.

Think about it – when else can a man wear a piece of ‘jewellery’ that’s both functional and ornamental?

Have you ever tried them?

What Are Cufflinks?

C

ufflinks are fashion tools used for fastening shirt cuffs. Similar to buttons, cufflinks vary in shapes, sizes, styles, and materials. They usually offer a little more contrast than a button and are considered a more ornamental option, but they’re not inherently formal or less formal.

Cufflinks might be traditionally associated with men’s semiformal evening wear (the tuxedo ensemble) but the versatile little fasteners can fill a surprising range of wardrobe roles.

So long as you’ve got a long-sleeved shirt with the requisite holes in the cuffs, you can work cufflinks into just about any outfit. Why not give them a try?

You just might discover that they work great for you!

42 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Make Her Love That Clean Shave ...

Protect Your Skin’s Health With Tea Tree Oil Anti-Bump® Lotion & Spray Deep-penetrating Tea Tree Oil skin softening lotion cleanses effectively and keeps the skin soft and pliable.

Atwell Dalgliesh Warehouse Blackstone Building, La Pansee Rd P.O. Box 732 Castries | Tel: (784) 452 3668 / 3417 www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 43

Yannick James Bowing his way into our Hearts with his Magic Violin By: Imran D. St.Brice

M

ost professionals will admit that it took them a considerable amount of time, trial and error to experience that epiphanic moment. One that would pique their interest in something they’ve had a long-lasting passion for.

There’s no doubt that we all go through a process of soul-searching to decide which path on the fork of life we want to follow.

For violinist and musician Yannick James, picking up the violin was a destiny waiting to be fulfilled.

His family originates from Babonneau. He attended the Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School (LHCSS) and then went on to study quantity surveying at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC).

Yannick is a familiar face on the St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival stage, performing for 13 consecutive years (2003-2016).

He has also performed at Tobago Jazz where he opened with Keyshia Cole, and at the World Festival of Black Arts in Dakar, Senegal (2010) in front of an audience of over 50,000! These performances have certainly gifted him with a tremendous amount of experience and exposure. But before he got to that point, it started at home, within the family.

44 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Dazzle: What role has your family played in your development as a creative individual?

Yannick: I grew up in a family of musicians. From my great grandfather, grandfather, now my siblings and I are all

involved in the field of music in one way or another.

This was probably the key factor in me becoming a musician because it was so openly accepted within the family circles as not just a hobby, but an integral part of our lives. As you’d expect, they were always very nurturing and supportive of my musical efforts.

In fact, my first instrument was bought for me by one of my older brothers as a birthday gift. And of course, it was the violin. Alongside the violin, I’ve had experience with the recorder, guitar and bass guitar.

Initially, and still to this day, I’m inspired by my family, especially my older brothers.

Dazzle: What was your initial experience when picking up a violin?

Yannick: To be quite honest, it was a strange experience. Because of my fondness for music in general, it seemed completely natural to become well versed in playing an instrument, considering my older siblings and family were already so skilled in one instrument or another.

a number of weeks where only the cream of the crop would move on upwards.

On several occasions I had to walk from the LHCSS (Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School) to town and then dart on-foot to Tapion if I had missed the bus, which left on the hour. This proved to be a trial for me as a student because if I had gotten to the School of Music past the entry time, I’d have risked been cut from the orchestra. But since it was something I refused to give up on, I was able to make it work. Fast-track past the trial period and I ended up being one of the leaders the orchestra! I’m currently a member of the local music bands ‘Gravity’ and ‘Skip Monday’.

Dazzle: When did you realise that music is the path you want to follow for the rest of your life?

Yannick: It was during the twilight of my days at Leon Hess, that time when every student is prompted to choose a career path. I too was faced with the

I did see other persons playing the violin and I thought to myself after I got mine, “I have one, now what do I do with it?” But from the time I saw it, I knew that there was no turning back and that this is what I wanted.

fun facts What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Teaching myself and acing my Grade 8 violin music course.

What is your favourite sports team?

None. But I am a huge LeBron fan!

Best compliment you’ve ever received?

Being told that my hair is interesting and attractive by a group of tourists Last song you listened to? 9 by Drake Favourite cartoon character? Gumball Dazzle: Tell us what the journey has been like, leading up to where you are now.

Yannick: It has been a mixture of emotions and experiences. One thing that hasn’t changed for me is that I’m constantly graduating from league to league, learning new things and evolving overall. My official introduction, though, was in a small orchestra organised by the Cultural Development Foundation at the St. Lucia School of Music. It was a trial period over

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 45

conventional career choice of becoming a doctor, and also a quantity surveyor. While they did seem appealing, I chose the violin ... I chose music. Years later, French violinist Gabriel Charles gave me a needed push, urging me to give my full time to music if I’m truly passionate about it. It was a worthwhile choice for me because I put every effort into passing my Grade 8- Violin performance held by the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).

Dazzle: As a young musician, what challenges do you face and how do you conquer them?

Yannick: I faced my greatest challenge as a musician when I was only 25 years old. It was actually during that final exam set by the ABRSM held at the St. Lucia School of Music. Any student who has gotten to that level of examination will understand how tasking it can be to perform at the required level. What made my challenge unique is that I had no choice but to play with a sub-par instrument, which made the risk of failure even higher. Prior to taking the exam, I was heavily criticised for using the instrument I owned despite it being the only one I had at that point in time. Even though it appeared as if the odds were not in my favour, I persevered and passed that exam and used it as a huge motivator to further my craft.

Thankfully, Mr. John Bailey (former Director at the SLSM) assisted me significantly in moving on from that point.

The constant challenge today is striving to be myself as a musician. My identity and brand are important to me as a musician and I can definitely attest to social media, google and hashtags being an effective tool to market your brand.

Dazzle: What are you aiming to accomplish in the next five years?

Yannick: First and foremost, to bolster my local presence as a musician.

Becoming a musical icon just like those whom I’ve looked up to, and then to be that kind of inspirational figure for the next crop of young musicians. Alongside that, I hope to add Kerwin DuBois, Sedale Semei and Bunji Garlin to the list of artistes that I’ve collaborated with. When I’m satisfied that I’ve accomplished that goal, I plan on moving to England to be a part of a larger orchestral team ... nothing specific as yet but that’s the plan!

The future definitely looks and sounds bright for Yannick! Here’s wishing him all the best and we hope he achieves all the goals he has set for himself.

46 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

How Good is Your Smoothie?

Dr. Celia McConnell-Downes

I

t’s 2017 and many of us have made resolutions for the New Year. Many will decide on lifestyle changes, including healthy diets, weight loss, exercise programmes and the cessation of smoking and alcohol, among many others.

So, where does this leave you and your resolution for a healthy diet?

Over recent years, our society has adopted a number of healthy habits and many of us have gone on a smoothie craze. Some have the perception that once I drink smoothies I will lose weight and I’ll be healthier.

I’ve seen the look of disbelief on many faces when they’re told you’re overweight, your blood sugar or cholesterol is abnormal. Then I hear the expression, “but I don’t understand, I’m drinking smoothies everyday.”.

a) Pay attention to the calories. For instance, half of a banana, one orange, half of a grapefruit or a small mango will each contribute 40 calories to your smoothie. Therefore, two bananas in one smoothie will contribute 160 calories of the total amount of calories. Sure, fruit is healthy but too much fruit in one shake will send your blood sugar into the red.

The high calorie intake will also defeat your workout efforts. You may spend 20 minutes running on a treadmill or do a three-mile walk and burn about 300 calories but you subsequently drink a smoothie containing more than 300 calories. b) Try to avoid icy additives like ice cream and frozen yogurt. c) Add more green vegetables like spinach and kale.

These have less sugar but more antioxidants, fibre and other vital nutrients. d) Use unsweetened, non-dairy milk like unsweetened almond milk. A better choice, of course, would be water, which has no sugar. e) Boost your smoothie with flax seeds, chia seeds, raw nuts, cinnamon and lemon juice.

When we subsequently go through their diet, including the ingredients of these ‘healthy smoothies,’ we discover the large amount of calories being packed into their systems first thing in the morning or after a nice, long workout.

Smoothies are good, and once they contain a good supply of carbohydrates (vegetables and fruits), protein and fats, a smoothie can actually serve as a full meal. However, some of us have a smoothie first thing in the morning followed by breakfast.

Some will argue that their smoothie contains natural sugars in the form of fruits and honey. Of course, natural is good but too much natural sugars will definitely elevate your blood sugar. Also, too much full-cream milk in your smoothie will elevate your cholesterol.

Here are a few tips to consider when preparing your smoothie:

Congratulations on your choice to make healthy living a priority! Try to make changes for life and not just a particular period.

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 47

ingredients FOR THE MANGO SAUCE 2 Cups Frozen Mangoes 2-3 Teaspoons Granulated Sugar (or sugar alternative) 1 Tablespoon Water FOR THE PARFAIT Granola Plain Greek Yoghurt Fresh Banana (or other fruit of your choice)

method To make the mango sauce, combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Allow to cook for 5-10 minutes until the mangoes have released their juice. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

To make the parfaits, layer the yoghurt with the granola, sauce and fresh fruit in a jar/bowl of your choice. If making the parfait in a jar, close with the lid and place in the fridge overnight before serving.

48 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

XBox One S The Centrepiece of Your Home Entertainment by: Imran D. St.Brice

O

ver the past decade, video game consoles have become more than just a fun distraction for children at home on summer break. Since 2000, consoles have made inroads into the realm of new media due to their ability to play DVDs, among other things. Fast forward 16 years and you find that consoles have become more of a staple in the family living room, relatively speaking. One of those consoles is the Xbox One S. Here are a few reasons why you should consider Microsoft’s latest and most powerful home console.

Superb Design Aesthetic Whether you care to admit it or not, looks are definitely a factor that you consider when buying any product. Compared to the previous Xbox One, the S model is 40 percent smaller and much more aesthetically pleasing with its panda-like colour scheme. Not only does it take up much less space, its sleek, dimpled design is something that will catch your eye every time you walk past it.

A Great Feel to Match While the console is the highlight, the controller is, without a doubt, what you’ll be spending the most intimate time with. The new controller is a case of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Not only does it maintain everything that we love, the addition of a textured surface for better grip, and bluetooth connectivity for gaming on Windows 10 PCs is welcomed with opened arms. The most exciting addition to the controller is ‘Design Lab’, where you can completely personalise your controller with more than eight million different colour combinations (according to Microsoft).

50 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

Energy Efficient You can spend countless hours on Netflix or playing Need for Speed and not have to worry about the console sapping your energy. The Xbox One S is more energy efficient than its predecessor, using 25 - 40 percent less electricity. Coupled with being more electrically friendly, the S model performs better when put to the test, giving you the best of both worlds.

Entertainment for Everyone: As mentioned earlier, gaming isn’t the only thing that this console is good for. Right after you hook up your Xbox to an HDMI TV, entertainment apps like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu and even Skype will all be ready to enjoy in as high as 4K definition. In fact, any HDMI TV will be compatible. Don’t throw away all of your movie CDs yet! The Xbox has a built-in 4K Blu-ray player capable of playing DVDs as well.

Games Galore: Whether you go for the 500 gigabyte option, or a whopping 2 terabytes there’s surely enough storage space to store tons of games. With over 1,000 games in the Microsoft Store, there’s no shortage of options for the children at home, or even mom and dad who want to tune into their inner gamer now and then.

Not only can you download new games exclusive to the console, select Xbox 360 games may be playable on the new console as well.

The solidifying point is that the Xbox One S has been on the market long enough to prove its worth for those who don’t already own a console. For many, it should be the centre of your home entertainment.

When do you CLimax?

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 51

see more pictures on www.dazzlethemag.com & facebook.com/dazzlethemag Saint Lucia Business Awards 2017

52 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com

DASH Independence Colour Run 2017

www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 53

D

dazzlethemag

64 Likes dazzlethemag Port Castries #stlucia #happyindependence #helenofthewest #simplybeautiful 2 6 1

D 54 DAZZLE

Follow Us instagram/dazzlethemag

www.dazzlethemag.com

Using Facebook to market your business $PEL $PSOLğHG His journey to the top

Fiona Compton The Photographer

Issue 1

St. Lucia Youth Business Trust

Meet Crystian Alexander

Dancing Princess Shines in The Lion King

Issue 2

St. Lucia Youth Business Trust

Wins Praise from Young Entrepreneurs

Increase Business From Your Inbox

Jermile Daniel Still Business Hungry As The Cell Turns 10

The Right Tie COLOUR

www.facebook.com/dazzlethemag

St. Lucia Youth Business Trust Are you Linkedin?

Teddyson John

A Born Musician

Try me!

Issue 6

Romance at the 2IŵFH *RRG RU Bad? The Sky’s the Limit for High-Jump Star

Is Emergency Contraception Safe?

Darnell Boxill Finds the Ideal Food Solution - Aquaponics

Jamie A. Peterkin Olympian and Coach Extraordinaire

Jeannelle Scheper

Super-Athlete

Makeba Alcide’s

Aiming for Olympics

DJ Barrie Hype: Shaking up the Music World

Try me!

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Issue 11

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Suzette

“the Hitman” out to Rule the Boxing Ring

Kareem Larcher

Cooks Up Culinary Wonders at the Kweole Pot

Living and Coping with Cerebral Palsy

Building Business Success through the Power of Positive Thinking

The Amazing Papaya Fruit and its Health Benefits

Do You Note?

Introducing the Galaxy Note 4

The Untold Story of

Zaine Pierre

Wanda Octave

Living to Inspire and helping to Change Lives

DJ Levi Chin

Musical ambassador and trailblazer

Souyenne & Velika

Issue 12

Rainbow Events championing a New Era in LGBT entertainment The ultimate bag fashion vocabulary

David Worrell ‘Swimming is my Life’

From Humble Beginnings to Stardom

Don’t Text and Drive – It Could Kill You!

Try me!

Try me!

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Issue 9

In the Spotlight:

Teige La Borde

Prenatal or Antenatal Care All You Need to Know

Latoya Lewis Glitz & Glamour Galore

Hustle and Flow with Rapper

Filbert Salton “Kayo”

Successful Event Designer & Virtuoso!

Taribba Joan

même bete

Junior R. Joseph

Building beyond the Mind’s Eye

Johann Deterville

Music in his veins Try me!

Try me!

Make Business Networking Work for You Living a Dream –

Tennail ThomasWolff’s

Fascinating Journey Through Dance

Sean Compton

Architecture is my Passion

Michael Robinson

R&B Star – Walking by Faith on the Road to Success Try me!

HAPPY

www.facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Seasons Greetings Protect Your Children From Impetigo

Julian Biscette

High-Flying Volleyball Star Has an Eye on the Big Leagues Ginger: A Wonder Healer

Sir Lancealot Knight of the DJ Round Table

Debbie KhodraJames

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Keddy Lesporis:

Cricket’s Regional Shining Light

Choosing the Right Phone for Mobile Gaming

All About the

Issue 7

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Christine Charlemagne

Dale Elliott

‘I was born to make Music’

‘UNTOLD STORIES touching hearts and changing lives!

The Amazing �e��t���e�efit�� of Pineapple

Kendell & Vanessa

Roberta Polius -Desir

Aiming to raise the bar in Business Law

Young, Empowered and Savvy and Making a Difference in Business

Turns Bridal Dreams into Reality Try me!

Smart TVs Gaining Popularity Worldwide

Issue 13

The Virtuoso:

Sherwinn ‘Dupes’ Brice

Inspiring a generation of Caribbean musicians

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Junior Achievement Our Stories of Success ‘Don’t Judge Me by the Colour of My Skin’ Breaking Boundaries: the amazing art of

Kimberly Solana

Feel the Riddim, Catch the Vibez The VERVE – St. Lucia’s Hottest Party Spot!

Miguel ‘Migz’ Joseph

Shoe Smarts – Choosing Footwear That’s’ Right for You

Heidi St. Clair

Child Care Visionary & Gutsy Entrepreneur

Marvelon “Stixx” Mitchell

Master Drummer & History-Maker

Kurt Elibox Corniel Lionel

Blazing the tracks!

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

The WAZE app is Here!

Shoe Rehab Helps You Walk with Flair and Style

Mandisa Morrison Your Nail Shape Vocabulary

Issue 17

8 Tips to Lose Weight and Keep it Off

Should you do a business plan?

Coach on a Mission

Peter Philogene

taking Youth Football to the Highest Level

Leslie Collymore AIM-ing to take Digital Marketing to New Heights

Aimran Simmons

Presenting ‘Belle Portwe’ – Anything Else will just be a PICTURE

Entrepreneurship…

Ready, Set, Go?

Try me!

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Issue 15

Rise of a Music Maestro: Nothing and No One Can Keep Him Down

Daniel Marcion

How to Get Your Site Top Spot in Search Results

6 Reasons you Should Upgrade to Windows 10

The Redmi 2 – a Budget-Friendly Powerhouse

How to Start a Side Business and Earn Extra Cash

Issue 14

‘Know where you are, and where you want to get to’

Interest Rates Basics: how they affect you Try me!

facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Sedale Simei

goes in ‘Deeper Than Soca’

Nurcia Paul

Try me!

Goretti Lawrency: Why Customer Retention is so Important

Issue 10

Coaks

St. Lucia’s Undisputed King of Comedy

Suicide Prevention How to Help Someone who is Suicidal

helping companies discover how Simple HR can be

PROSAF Champions the Cause of Sexual Abuse Victims

Stay Fit and Trim with a Fitness Tracker

IA

Issue 4

weaves more than just another stylish curl

Behold, the Power of Twitter!

Part II

Kyghan Morthley

Superman HD

Filmmaker Extraordinaire

Do You Know the Facts About Your Allergy?

www.facebook.com/dazzlethemag

A Rising Star in St. Lucian Business

TH INDE 34

www.facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Issue 3

Latoya Mitchell

Michelle Serieux INT LUC SA

Try me!

www.facebook.com/dazzlethemag

Darcel Frederick

NDENCE PE

www.Dazzlethemag.com

Try me!

Moto 360 – the Perfect Fashion Statement

Issue 18

1

Herma Demacque Quit Procrastinating and Just Do Something

A Royal Voice Making Big Waves

Avocado Cheesecake

Candy Nicholas Leading St. Lucia Back to Healthy Eating & Natural Living

Jimmy Francis

J’s Wrap Citi-Home of Low-Calorie, Diet-Friendly Fast Food

Try me!

Try me!

Tempered Glass

go online to dazzlethemag.com to subscribe now www.dazzlethemag.com

DAZZLE 55

56 DAZZLE

www.dazzlethemag.com