EFFUSE SPECIAL EDITION CELEBRATING MOTHERS
issue10
world’s best inspiring magazine
Exclusive Interview
ZEINABOU
Entreprenuer, Curator & Blogger Photographer Jeffery Salter
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
C ONTE NT S Effuse Magazine Our 10th issue is celebrating African mothers and succesful women around the world. This issue features some great encouragement for mothers to be, plus managing being a mother and success. @effusemagazine
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Front Cover Our front cover for this issue is the inspiring mother, curator, blogger and entreprenuer Zeinabou Munyaradzi. Sharing her honest mothering tips and entreprenuership. @_zeinabou_
Photographers Credits to the amazing professional photographers that took some of the images featured in this 10th issue.
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Jeffery Salter Royal Media Photography Visualsbychez Justyna Bulinska Joanna Mitori Washington Gwande Tich Pfups Photography
Contributors Thank you to our content contributors worldwide and our Editor for always delivering the best content for our issues.
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News Magazine Email Address: effusemag@gmail.com Social Media: @effusemagazine Editor Cecilia K.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
CO EDITOR
Let’s Fem the future! Enjoy our special issue and Happy Easter.
W
Tapiwa MUGABE Co Editor
e live in a world where one can be intransigent about one’s views but one issue that we agree on is that we can all do more to empower women. Together we – men as well, need to do the work to improve our world and this goes beyond celebrating those who identify as female - women, LBGTQ, mothers and motherhood on just one day/s. That means using the energy and ideas from the collective voices we hear on Mother’s , International Women’s Day and throughout the month of March as a blueprint for how everyday should be lived, not just in our interactions with women or our female counterparts but also in the ideas we hold in our minds about them. Further, we should use this blueprint on loving, respecting and valuing women as we do ourselves to value the girl child. This means going beyond speaking about women’s issues but actively working on initiatives that empower and give women a voice as well all the freedoms that a human being is entitled to, including financial freedom which is one of the barriers we need to break down by ensuring women are rewarded for their efforts financially as men are. In this issue, we celebrate women from all walks of life, being a woman and all that entails and we put a spotlight on mothers and motherhood. I am grateful of and for all of the women I have encountered in my life and the one’s I will encounter. I hope to use my voice, influence and experience as a man to empower women as well as acknowledge my privilege and work towards breaking down barriers that hinder women in their experience of being human. I dream of a world where women get to be as amazing as they dare to be and for me that means starting by ensuring that ‘everyday and in every way possible tell a little girl she is amazing’.
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POEM
(Mama’s song) 2014, Zimbabwe Tapiwa Mugabe.
S
he carried me for a long time I was in her heart growing in her mind. Long before I made home in her womb, I was nevanji she prayed for. Years after God had tested her patience, I showed up looking like a dream deferred.
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DASHIKI UK
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Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Dashiki UK Contact: Instagram: @dashikiuk Website:www.dashikiuk.com Email: contact@dashikiuk.com Phone: 00447377774113
Full interview coming soon.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
POEM
Rufaro ‘FALO’
QUICK MATH Miscalculations Can have you chasing a tangent Have you down a dark gradient Where you misplace your importance When you were a variable. Any number could have fit that formulae. One of many But a skewering had you thinking You were one above all, improper fraction. Humbling When you find real math has more letters Than numbers And what you meant to him Well that’s quick maths - Written by R.S.Jombe
Photographer Royal Media UK @RMUK @FALO3
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Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
FALO Photographer Royal Media
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BEING
A MOTHER T
o say the least raising a child isn’t easy and for me it’s
been challenging, it surely has been stressful, because I’m not just a mother, I’m a single mother, a do it yourself mother, a who do I call when it all falls down mother. The truth is, I’ve been ashamed and embarrassed of being nothing more than just another statistic, a young black woman raising a child all by her damn self! I have been bitter, I have been mad and I have been confused. Searching for answers from people when the answer I really needed was right there in front of me. Everyday, every single day that I look at my child. Nothing else seems to really matter at all! From my experience it surely does take a village to raise a child and I am grateful for my village. However to all the single mothers out there who don’t have that village. I salute you! It’s really true when they say that, “not all hero’s wear a cape!" Mothers be honoured, celebrated and appreciated! We should be entirely thankful and grateful for an honour that some others yearn for.
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F
or me personally, my life is my son & my son is my life.
King Kai's Mama.
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10
minutes with
Rose Man Photographer Justyna Bulinska
PHOTOGRAPHER JUSTYNA BULINSKA
ndizha
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Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
W
hat does being a mother mean to you? How does your culture dictate a mother’s role? I used to think being a mother was just having kids and being called a mum and taking care of your children, but I learnt its a lot more than that to be honest, It’s putting someone else before yourself. My culture does not dictate but it plays a fundamental role in helping me raise my children more mannered and centred I think, because Shona culture is one of discipline. What makes you a great mother? Nothing, I make mistakes and face challenges like all mothers so nothing makes me a great mother at all but, knowing that I can always do better than I already am is probably what would make me greater at it. The worst advice you have been given? “You’ll never be able to do anything you want”, That’s a lie people made it seem like I couldn’t live my dream to travel or enjoy what i wanted but actually I do it more with my son we travel to different countries and explore the world and its actually more fun, so when people said I’ll never get to do it they lied, I think without my son I wouldn’t even have the courage to travel actually. How do you balance your career and motherhood? I do both, I tend to pick Jobs that I can bring my son along castings that are mother and child and also I have a great family and friends as support so it's manageable. What has been your favourite / biggest pregnancy cravings? Ivhu/Clay I think I have scoured the globe for the stuff and I can’t live without it but, also I crave mango even if it’s not so great Tesco mango I think it’s just the smell and idea im eating it that calms my brain strange I know. Can you explain how motherhood has empowered you? Like i said I’ve been able to travel, I haven’t been to Zimbabwe in 16 years since I first came, ever since I’ve been a mother I’ve taken trips I never have before lived for short periods in different countries I’ve been more motivated to LIVE. What process do you go through to pick baby names? That’s tricky, first of all I don’t ask if anyone else likes the names I have so far, you do that everyone has an opinion so I have to think its my child its a name i have to call for the next 18 years So, I have to like it. But I also try to mix names and create so something unique but not so unique my child ends up being called Tomato-Ice or something. And I always have a unique shona name my son is called Mushana which means sunrise in shona it's not your average Anesu or Tafara, but it still has meaning.
. What is your favourite mantra? “You are Special”, I have it tattooed on me even. I think even as a mother sometimes your so focused on the little people you forget that. So reminding yourself “You are special” is highly important. How do you want your children to remember you? I want them to remember me for doing the impossible, what other people said you can’t do I did just to prove to them they were capable of anything, you have to practice what you preach in life and I want my children to remember I showed them, I didn’t just talk with no action. What does international women’s day mean to you? I’ll be honest it’s not a day that means anything to me per say, but I admire the reasons behind it and feel women should feel empowered not everyone woman can enjoy Mother’s Day I guess, but I also don’t think we need a Day EVERYDAY, should be a day women are celebrated it what I mean, do you realise how powerful we are? I don’t think we need a day a year to realise that but if we get one we might as well milk it and be Queens for the day.
Rose Mandizha
“YOU ARE SPECIAL!” “YOU ARE
PHOTOGRAPHER SHELLEY, MUA ROSE , DRESS MISSGUIDED
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
    POEM DEDICATION BY TAPIWA MAKAKA                                   
LILY, MY FLOWER M
om, I love you more and
it is this.
more everyday.
You find you mature when you
I love you when it is hard to and
forgive.
when it feels effortless.
And you love the mother you
To love you is to forgive you, so
have and not the one that you
I'll let go of everything. Comple-
want.
tely.
And maybe you see that she has
I know if I let go only a little , I'd
been at war with certain parts
have a little freedom but if I let
of herself that even as a mother
go completely then well , I can
she is only now becoming re-
truly feel you , as I do myself
conciled with.
even.
So, she wonders in search of
Then, mama, I will say I love you
God because then, she feels,
with an honest heart.
she will find peace for her un-
I think when we sacrifice our
quiet spirit.
pain in order to love our mo-
Oh how sweet a discovery, like
thers , we grow.
finding a new world or life or
That's what love does, it waters
way of being if I were to rise,
and grows the Divine within be-
And show my mother such
cause the act of forgiving is, in
beauty that she birthed? But
a way silencing the inner child
first , I must forgive.
that is crying out for a mother . Or maybe a more apt way to put
đ&#x;Œą
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MOTHER'S MESSAGE BY TAKU
To My Mother!
M
y mother is a blessing. She will go out of her way to make sacrifices for
you and ask for nothing in return. I have learnt a lot from her and continue to learn from her.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
GLAM
PhPhPhotographer Tich Pfups, MUA Beauty with Taffy
SPLENDOUR
T
he creative geniuses behind Glam Splendour styled shoot, showcases the elegancy of passionate entrepreneurs coming together as one for glam. Dynamic and skilled Glam Splendour’s teamwork vision represented the importance of entrepreneurs embracing glam exquisiteness.
ranged by Jules Jonathan of Bespoke Petals and Events who provided from the luxurious lines, plates, candle holder and personalised menus, Tatenda Kanyasa of Pure Lush Events who put together simply lush fresh hydrangeas and red roses floral centrepieces. Award winning Yvonne Yvette of Yvonne Ndava designed two sophisticated and show stopping evening dresses in red, black and gold embellishments. The red one arm print mix mermaid dress was worn by one of the models Bren Mupa an award-winning fashion icon, event’s host and influencer. Fashion Blogger and Travel Consultant, Tammy Ausden of Tammy's Wardrobe wore the black 2 in 1 gown also designed by Yvonne Yvette. The talented Tafadzwanaishe Dube of Beauty by Taffy, transformed the models for the shoot.
In the words of Joseph C Zinker, “Creativity is a celebration of one’s grandeur, one’s sense of making anything possible.” Super talented chefs Hendrinah and Munya of Sweet ‘n’ Seasoned were also This was reflected by all the elements included in the Glam Splendour shoot. executed in this styled shoot, Glam Splen- They showcased their talent by serving dour! Beautifully blended gold, red, bla- canapés, freshly baked bread and a 3-couck and, white colours were professionally rse meal. captured by Carol and Tich of Tich Pfups Photography. Shoot creative director Jules Jonathan said, “as someone who supports women The different colours used in Glam Splen- empowerment, I approached these ladies dour, defined how the group of passiona- to take part in this photo shoot, showcase te creatives and entrepreneurs coming our creativity and passion”. She went on to together to demonstrate their passion say that “she wanted to show the positive plus creativity. Those involved are, awar- narrative of Zimbabwean women, when d-winning cake maker Pam Kafesu of The we decide to work together as service proCake Emporium Halesowen who created viders it becomes easy to make it in the a 3-tier black and gold cake which was competitive industry that we are in.” beautifully decorated with red edible ro- Glam Splendour shoot represents how a ses and also made cupcake favours topped team of passionate creatives can come towith the roses. The table styling was ar- gether producing oozing opulence.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
ARCHEL BERNARD T
Ms. Bernard, a Georgia Tech graduate who moved back to her parents’ native Liberia in 2011 after deciding that postwar Liberia may be an easier place to find a job than the post-recession United States, is determined to change all of that.
ell us a bit more about yourself? I am an owner of The Bombchel Factory and Mango Rags boutique in Monrovia, Liberia. I moved to the West African country after graduating from Georgia Tech in Atlanta. I now specialize in dreaming up contemporary African clothing, training disadvantaged women to sew her designs, and empowering the women to become self-sufficient. My mission in life took a significant turn amid the deadly Ebola outbreak in Liberia. I saw the devastation in a country she loved; a country still struggling to overcome civil war. After that, I decided to open a factory to help the people of her ancestral homeland to rebuild. It is named The Bombchel Factory and I am, the Head Bombchel in Charge. I’m excited to empower women to make a meaningful difference in their lives and the world around them. I take a strong stand for humanity. With faith, focus, and compassion, the possibilities are limitless.
ther towards your decision? When the work gets super hard and I’m ready to pull the plug, my mom reminds me ‘you’re doing God’s work. Stay the course.’ She is the support I need when I think of giving up. I don’t know how people start businesses without family support. Knowing how much my mom believes in me and is so excited to help me along my journey is actually the most reliable part about growing this business!!
What made you to start Bombchel Factory? And how did the name come about? Bombchel is pronounced like my first name, Archel. It’s a fun play on words for my squad of bold women who create and wear our clothing. I think it’s so fun to say you’re a Bombchel and have it mean I contributed in someway to seeing bold, ethical fashion from Liberia all around the world! How supportive was your mo-
How does it feel seeing your mother wearing your brand Bombchel? I love it. She’s an honest critic and I know I can trust her opinions. If she likes something, it’s not because her daughter created it. It’s because she feels young and fun and the looks flatter her. When she doesn’t like something, she’s the first to say so as well, so knowing I have a true customer on my team to give advice where I need it is so
What made you want to train Liberian women into African fashion? I’m a Liberian woman myself. I love fashion, and I love my country, and I think it’s truly exciting to put my favorite things together and create opportunities for other Liberian women like me to thrive and grow. Everyone wants to wear clothes that make them feel beautiful, and some of us are called to create. Opportunity is needed in order to elevate some of the more interesting global voices, and I hope that’s what we can do at The Bombchel Factory.
amazing! I’m glad she wants to be a part of everything. How exciting to bond over work that’s so beautiful and life changing! Would you say your mother contributed to the success you have now and the person you are today? When I was in my all-white, American elementary school in Georgia, my mom would pick me up from school in her head to toe African attire. One day I asked her if she could ‘dress normal like the other moms.’ And now here I am and I’ve made the African clothing such a major part of my life. I even love finding her old pieces and reintroducing them the Bombchel way. She planted and watered all these seeds. My only job was to grow. Why do you think the mother and daughter bond is important? A mother shows a daughter how to be a woman. She is the blueprint. She maps the course. Everything I’ve done is to try to be like my mother. She’s the most influential beacon of my life. Where do you see the Bombchel factory in the next 2-5 years? I’m excited to see how our designs evolve and how much more of the production process we are able to take over. What does International Women’s Day mean to you? Everyday is Women’s Day to me. And I enjoy an exciting, progressive work environment because of it.
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www.shopbombchel.com www.shopbombchel.com
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Conversation with
ARCHEL BERNARD'S
SUPPORTIVE MOTHER!
W
hat has been your proudest moment as a mother in Archel’s life? I have had so many proud and humbling moments as Archel’s mother. I’ll never forget the first time I visited her in Liberia. She was living alone in a little room she had rented in someone’s backyard near the beach. She had the barest necessities: a single burner on a table in one corner for heating whatever food she might bring home, but no refrigerator to store food or drinks; a rusty fan near the foot of her bed that stirred around the West African heat because a row of holes built near the top of the cement walls to keep out would-be thieves also kept out ocean breezes; two 100-gallon drums in the bathroom used to store water for flushing the toilet or taking baths; and a small plastic bucket in the shower area for washing her body and clothes. I could not believe that my little girl who was raised with all the luxuries of a suburban American, could adjust to these tough conditions—without complaining! She said, “Mom, I’m living better than most Liberians.” So much has changed since those early days. I was incredibly proud when Archel tripled her Kickstarter goal. I knew how hard she had
worked to make the Kickstarter a success. Her siblings and I literally celebrated each and every backer, as the pledges came in. Another very proud moment for me was when I went to Liberia and saw The Bombchel Factory for the first time. I heard the women talk about how Archel had changed their lives. They were learning a trade and earning money for the first time ever. That was huge. I am always filled with pride when I see how Archel’s sisters and brother support her wholeheartedly. How they all believe in her mission and do whatever they can to help her succeed. I think that is every mother’s dream. Archel and I were both proud the when we took Beatrice, a Bombchel Factory worker, to enroll in school for the first time in her life. She was a 26- year-old widow and mother and she couldn’t write her own name. Archel and I fought back tears as we went to buy her school supplies after dropping her off at orientation. I was also proud when Archel told me she was paying the college tuition for another one of her Bombchel Factory ladies. I could keep going, but I suppose what makes me most proud is knowing that God has blessed me with such a wonderfully inde-
pendent, hard-working, creative and loving daughter. How does your culture dictate a mother’s role? What has been the most challenging moments for you as a mother? How do you survive mom guilt? In my culture, the mother takes care of the children. Fathers are traditionally less hands-on than American dads. But I think mothers everywhere in the world want better for our children than we ourselves had. I think that’s my biggest mom guilt: I have failed to deliver. Archel had to get student loans throughout college because I could not afford to pay her tuition (even writing that hurts). My parents could afford to give me so much more than I could give my own children. My other mom guilt is getting divorced. Divorce is harder of children than most people understand. My parents stayed together and I have wondered many times if things would have been better for my five children if I had done the same. I know it wasn’t easy being raised by a single mom who worked full time. I survive it through prayer. I look at how well my children are doing and how well-adjusted they are, and I try to quell the guilt when it bubbles up.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Of course now, the most challenging thing for me is the distance. I can’t just get in a car and drive to see Archel. Texting and FaceTiming make it easier to stay connected. I communicate with Archel and all her siblings throughout each day. We have the most engaging group chat. We are always in each other's business. Who do you consider your celebrity spirit mom?
That would have to be Kris Jenner. My children know there is nothing I won’t do for them. I am their biggest supporter, though I’m not afraid to tell them hard truths. I am happiest when we’re all together. Our family is very fun and lively. There’s also a healthy amount of drama, but family comes first. Always. Another interesting similarity is that I understand my girls much more than I do my son. Clearly, God knew what He was doing when he gave me 4 daughters and one son!
Contact: Instagram: @shopbombchel Website:www. shopbombchel.com Email: shopbombchel@gmail.com
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
FRONT COVER
Exclusive interview
ZEINABOU
“Juggling being a new mother and an is a daily struggle, I have amazing everything is on top and sometime
PHOTOGRAPHER JEFFERY SALTER
entrepreneur weeks where es I have bad weeks.�
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
INTERVIEW BY TAPIWA MUGABE
T
ell us a bit more about Zeinabou. Who is Zeinabou? Zeinabou is a creative person, constantly evolving and learning. I am a proud Pan African woman in love with everything African including the Diaspora. What Is Motherhood to you? Motherhood is really about self discovery, learning so much about yourself through your child. Is motherhood a privilege or a sacrifice? I believe it is both, as a woman with many friends who have had miscarriages or are even unable to bare children I cannot look at my child and not see what a privilege I have been given. The sacrifice, although tough at times can be minuscule to the privilege but it is there and very evident! You’re a whole brand that is diverse and involved in various projects. What does the brand Zeinabou mean to you? I think Zeinabou as a brand aims to showcase Zeinabou the person. Honestly my passions fuel my brand and being able to showcase how we are connected throughout Africa and the diaspora, as well as providing a platform for women that I feel may be underrepresented within my community merely because they are considered different. “Zeinabou is not your fucking mom!” - a statement on your blog, I love that statement, what does it mean? HA! Man I have a serious potty mouth. I had been struggling with swearing as a new mother. I couldn’t reconcile with the idea that I would somehow have to fit into this box that society deemed appropriate as a mother, and one day I was like “ Fuck it! I’m not your mom don’t stress about how I parent.” I love my child to death and the daily sacrifices I make for him will always surpass a “ curse word”. As an entrepreneur what are some of the challenges you have faced? Juggling being a new mother and an entrepreneur is a daily struggle, I have amazing weeks where everything is on top and sometimes I have bad weeks ( this was definitely one of those!). What is important is that my state of mind remains the same. I think as long as you can keep a smile on your face through it all, you will make it. How do you navigate spaces that are male dominated? With my head held high (even if my knees are trembling). You style and aesthetic that have you have curated for yourself. Could you define it? I was a super tomboy when I was younger, sports bras, sneakers, baggy pants etc. So I think I carry a bit of that in how I dress now. I love tailored pieces and mixing really heavy masculine pieces with very dainty purses or shoe, I think it really balances the woman that I am. I am pretty low maintenance in my grooming too.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
ZEINABOU EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW You’re a curator. A creative force, what drives you? My child, Africa and the world around me. What and who are you influences? My mother and my grandmother. As a brand how do you grow and expand? How do you approach challenges? I’m honestly still learning. One thing I can say is slow and steady wins the race. I used to rush things, and try and be first. I prefer quality of quantity now. Challenges have to be taken as they come, sometimes a challenge is just an opportunity for you to STOP and reset. What is Zeinabou’s mantra for life? “ I watch no man, I focus on my race.” How do you want your children to remember you? I just want them to know that I did my absolute best in everything. I fought my own demons and got to where I wanted to be in spite of it all.
Ankara Clothing by @demestiks
You advocate for womxn as shown by your beautiful Instagram post on womens day. What does it mean being a womxn to you? When anyone Identifies themselves as anything, I honestly believe they should also take on the struggles of that identity. I don’t believe in just benefitting from something or someone else without really taking on the struggles and efforts taken just to survive the day. Women are tough as hell, we go through so much shit on a daily basis. REGARDLESS of our tax brackets we have felt some sort of discrimination ( sometimes from other women). But still we rise… That is some powerful stuff man. I always remind myself on the tough days “To whom much is given, much is expected”. When you understand that you can see why we are so tough, we have to be. We are the backbone of our nations, without a Woman there is nothing.
Ankara Clothing by @demestiks
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
ZEINABOU Curator | Blogger | Mother www.zeinabou.com
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
INTERVIEW WITH JOY MATSEKETE
Malia her JOY! Baby
more than
Photographer Washington Gwande
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
INTERVIEW WITH JOY MATSEKETE What was your first reaction when you found out you were pregnant? Initially I was in shock, I told my doctor to shut up and confirm the pregnancy again as I was in disbelief. To be quite honest I was in shock for a while, my voice trembled when I said the words "I'm pregnant." Your biggest pregnancy cravings? Did you enjoy your pregnancy? Funnily enough I didn't have any cravings, I hardly had an appetite for food it just made me sick. The only thing that I could handle was fruit, ICY water and a cup of tea here and there. As the days passed and turned into months, it felt like was knocking at deaths door at times because I would have dizzy spells and black outs. This was only for a short period though, after a visit to the doctors and enough rest i began to feel like myself again. I can honestly say I enjoyed my pregnancy, except for the needles at the doctors, and I wouldn't change it for the world. The journey itself taught me about compassion and patience amongst other things; how to be more compassionate with myself for the physical changes and for letting go of the "plans" that I had established for myself along the way.
JOY MATSEKETE
"PRAYER IS KEY."
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
What was the worst advice you received
Okay, I mean, when you’re 8 mon-
when you were pregnant and now?
ths pregnant and already haven’t been
Being a mom comes with a world of unsoli-
sleeping for a while due to a bladder
cited advice about how to raise your kids,
that needs to be emptied every 5 mi-
but what I didn’t expect was all of the advi-
nutes and a giant beach ball of a belly
ce I received while I was pregnant. I expec-
causing you aches and pains all over,
ted the usual questions, “Do you know what
hearing this is nothing but annoying. I
you’re having?” “How far along are you now?”
realize now that the lack of sleep as a
and the ever so favourite, “You’re STILL preg-
new mom is way more intense than the
nant!?” It’s terrifying enough being pregnant
lack of sleep during pregnancy, but still,
for the first time and everything being so new
this is not going to make a tired preg-
to you, but having all kinds of advice thrown
nant woman feel any better about thin-
at you sometimes adds unnecessary stress.
gs.
Of course now it’s easy to look back and say to myself that I overthought everything. But
THE BEST ADVICE I RECEIVED
when you are pregnant and your hormones
“WALK. WALK A LOT.”
are all over the place, it’s easy to take things personally. That being said, some of the advi-
This was hard advice to take because I
ce I received was amazing and actually made
was so uncomfortable my entire preg-
me feel much better and at ease with every-
nancy and wanted to do nothing but be
thing. The rest of it, not so much.
a couch potato. And for the most part, I was. But when I did manage to get up
THE WORST ADVICE I RECEIVED
and go for a walk I felt soooo much be-
“SLEEP NOW, BECAUSE ONCE THE BABY
tter. I wasn’t as active as I had hoped to
COMES YOU WON’T BE SLEEPING!”
be during this pregnancy, but knowing how good it felt to move when I did, I am going to make it a priority, if everything goes well, to be more active during my next one!
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
INTERVIEW WITH JOY MATSEKETE Your favourite mother and daughter activity? Everything that I do with my daughter is my favourite but if I had to pick one thing it'd have to be bath time. My baby loves water and I cannot wait for her to start her swimming lessons in the next few weeks. What is one thing you fear for your daughter’s generation? Raising a daughter is my biggest fear because she would be a reflection of me and I obviously want to instill the values and morals that my own mother taught me. Well I hope she doesn't get lost in the sauce. I don't want her to fall or get trapped in with the wrong crowd but as a parent you can only do so much to prevent that from happening. I am terrified about the influence her peers will have on her. A lot of children in this generation lack respect for anyone but themselves. Walking around with their new iPhones, they have no concept of responsibility they've just been handed everything without having to work for it. How can I teach my child the value of a dollar if their friends all have new fancy shmancy phones and they're stuck with a basic flip phone? But most importantly, how can I teach my daughter to be a respectable girl when there are boys who won't respect her? Being a parent is the toughest job anyone could have and with all these fears crossing my mind, I just hope at the end of the day I can be proud of the little human being I created. Inspiration behind your baby’s name? Reign means royalty, authority to rule. It was inspired by my late grandmother. Her other name Malia means calm, peaceful. I chose this because of all the battles I fought and still fighting she was and still is my PEACE. Beside’s being a mother, who is Joy? If you didn't know already my name is Joy and I am a woman of many strengths,
powers and talents. I carry myself with a natural essence that attracts others. I'm also a woman with many faults, insecurities and bad habits. However, I am special and I know it. What does being a mother mean to you? Being a mother is discovering strengths you didn't know you had and dealing with fears you never knew existed. Motherhood is a funny thing. It brings joy, sadness, laughter and frustrations. It can also be the most rewarding job on the planet (most days), but it can also be the hardest. Any words of encouragement to young mothers? PRAYER IS KEY! Its so easy to Praise God in the good times and ask why in the bad. But you know what God wont give you a battle he doesnt think you cannot overcome. I applaud all the young mothers out there. Especially those my age and younger who make the best out of their circumstances and being nothing but a great mom. What does international women’s day mean to you? To me it means unity, it means reciprocity, it means fiesta, it means to be with a lot of women who I hope share the same views as myself. It means that women from all over the world can see women do something for their own countries. Most importantly International Women's Day should be a day of peace and reciprocity amongst women it is not a power struggle.
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Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
NOTHANDO NYATHI
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Motherhood And
ENTREPRENUERSHIP
H
"Motherhood has definitely empowered me to want to achieve more and it has also changed my perspective on life."
ow is your year going so far? Any particular goals of 2018? My year is going well. Yes, I did set some goals in the beginning of the year. One was to change my diet and go vegan and I'm proud to say I haven't had any non-vegan food since. My other goals were to be more involved in campaigning for women and children's rights, produce content for FAINA and to put more effort in networking. I'm still working on those goals.
grow up knowing that nothing is impossible if you set your mind and work hard. It's still a struggle for me to find balance but I try to work on my brand when my son is away or when he is asleep. I wouldn’t really be able to call myself a brand owner if it weren't for the sleepless nights.
How do you manage being BRAND owner and motherhood? Which one comes first and why? Motherhood definitely comes first, no question about it. Being a mother has given me the drive to want to work really hard and be successful not only for me but for my son, and also so I can leave a legacy. I push myself to be the best I can be so that I can set a good example for my son, I want him to
Did you enjoy your pregnancy? I loved my pregnancy. I didn't go through any pain or any discomfort, it was really a beautiful experience for me.
Would you say motherhood has changed or empowered? Explain? Motherhood has definitely empowered me to want to achieve more and it has also chanBesides being a mother, who is Nothando? ged my perspective on life. I spend less time Besides being a mother, I am a law student, chasing things that do not add value to my an entrepreneur and I also consider myself life, instead I invest in positive things that I an activist. know will yield results for myself, my business and my family. You started your successful brand Faina, what made you get into fashion entrepre- As a designer and entrepreneur, how do neurship? you keep up with your time management Well I'm not sure about the word successful, and deadlines? I don’t think I've reached that stage yet. But It’s all a balancing act for me. I try to prioritimy love for sewing made me want to get into se my projects, so being a mother and a stufashion entrepreneurship. That combined dent takes most of time during the week then with the encouragement from my grandmo- when my son is away during the weekends I ther who taught me to sew, she believed I really put all my time and effort into desigwas talented and till now she continues to be ning and the business side of things. It’s a my main inspiration. learning curve for me at the moment.
"Motherhood always comes first."
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
FAINA
COLLECTION.
T
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
ell us a bit more about the new FAI- afraid to dream. There is a negative misconNA collection? ception that once you have a child you can The new collection consists of con- not dream or do things or take risks when it temporary garments. It’s a Ready-to-Wear comes to careers but I believe as long as you collection of 6 pieces designed for warm have a vision, motherhood will only work weather. It’s a collection you could take on as an accelerator to reaching those dreams. your next holiday as it has elements to suit Also while working so hard don’t forget your different types of activities; exploring, re- children are only young once, enjoy every laxing in the sun or for a romantic dinner. moment with them. Always make time for Contemporary African Fashion is not very your children, listen to them, inspire them popular, when most people think of Afri- to dream and be creative, don’t go a day wican wear they think African fabric, Ankara thout speaking kind empowering words to and kente for example but I really tried to them.
bring the African theme with the use of sustainable fabrics, patterns and statement and What does international women’s day minimal designs that reflect the diversity of mean to you? Africa. International women's day means celebrating women, celebrating how far we have Where do you see your brand in the next come in our struggle for equality and wo2-5years? men's rights. It also a day for bringing awaIn the next 2-5 years I see FAINA not only reness to the struggles that women globally being recognised as a big fashion house but are still fighting for. It also day that I get to a brand that has built a community that cele- come together with other women to march brates and empowers women. I hope to use in the streets of central London, shouting FAINA as a stepping stone to my dream of with my sisters for social change and social helping women and children globally and justice. creating an organisation that fights issues that women and children are going through in society and empowers women by giving them opportunities to better their lives. What does being a mother mean to you? To me being a mother means I was given the responsibility to raise an individual to be bold, fearless, responsible, honest, creative and loving, and also to raise someone who will play their part in creating a powerful generation and changing the world. Being a mother is an amazing gift, I was given an opportunity to love unconditionally and to receive unconditional love, it’s a beautiful feeling and experience. Any advice to other mothers about motherhood and entrepreneurship? The advice I would give to mothers is don’t ever feel that you can't do anything. Don’t be
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
www.getlashedonline.co.uk
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
MELISSA CHEKERA
T
Young Entreprenuer
ell us a bit more about yourself?
I am 20 years old and I live in West Sussex. my parents are originally from Zimbabwe and my mum moved her in the early 90s however I was born in the UK. I went to college in London and got A*A*B on my second time of resisting year 13. I was a resit student because I battled with severe depression and tried to commit suicide in April 2016. I bounced back and with not getting into my choice of uni back in 2016 I tried again. I am going to study in the top 4th University in the country in September (LSE). l’ve also currently got offers from UCL, Durham, Warwick and Nottingham. What inspired you to start your own brand ‘Get Lashed online’? Honestly, I was not looking to spend over £10 for lashes and the Aliexpress ones took ages to deliver. I love my lashes and decided to create a brand with affordable products for girls like me. What challenges have you faced so far as a young entrepreneur? Breaking into the make up market. To be honest I still have not broken into it yet but its all about strategy and perseverance. Starting my business made me realise how many companies out there sell eyelashes and how many have a USP of being affor-
dable. But I have not really seen small business with affordable lashes have a high sense of professionalism on their sites. I really tapped into this and did my own shoot and product photography, I feel my website is on parr to other make up brands. How do you keep yourself focused on achieving your goals? Gucci handbags haha, nah! But I have a lot of ideas on how to expand the business, so it makes me want to push further. Also all the positive reviews I get helps me keep focused because these lovely girls who just promo my business or who direct message me saying how much they like my lashes makes me feel the business is serving its purpose. What was the worst advice you ever received? Surprisingly, I have not really had any concerning the business, the advice I have had has all been pretty sound. In what ways is your brand different to what is already out there? My lashes sell for £4.99, which is a super low price and the postage is also at a fair price. The cheap lashes are my main USP but also the high level of professionalism is also a main selling point of my brand. I was lucky enough that I had help to be able to pay for a professional shoot and have product photography etc. Also the high level of customer servi-
ce draws people in, as my main profession at the moment is in customer service I know how to deal with things efficiently and quickly, I have built a very good rapport with my customers and I am proud of that. What words of encouragement do you have for young entrepreneurs like yourself? Don't give up. Some days are going to be slow, you might not make any money or get any new customers but you have to keep at the grind. Think of ways to expand and grow your business. Most markets are over saturated now, whatever idea you have, whether its a youtube video or a hair business, you HAVE to come with originality. Anything to make your brand stand out from the rest. What does international women’s day mean to you? Celebrating ALL women. Not just societies conventional view or the stereotypical representation of women in the media but I mean gay women, trans women, black and brown women, muslim women, disabled women, sex workers etc etc. It's about celebrating womanhood, what makes us so great. Theres so many different elements to what makes women so great, we are beyond making babies and domesticity. Its just a great day to see what makes us so individually amazing.
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
MOTHERLY ADVISE .
Mthandazo Amanda "Being
pregnant and feeling your baby kick and twist and turn then when they’re born you just love them beyond anything." else.
W
hat feelings and emotions did you you just love them beyond anything else. I go through when you found out you can’t go too long without seeing him it’s like were pregnant? another part of me is missing. I was very excited because I knew I wanted to have my kids early in life (mid twenties) so I could have as good a relationship with them as I did with my own Mum. Even though I was really terrified about telling my mum (I knew she wanted me to finish uni first) and giving birth!
If we remove the title ‘mother’ who are you?
What was your biggest cravings?
What does it mean being a mother mean to you?
Dry toast, bacon and blackberry caprisun. How did you build up to the momentum of becoming a mother?
I like to think I’m kind and considerate to my friends and family. I’m a wife and I’m very ambitious even more so now that I have my son depending on me.
I think moms are super heroes. I never understood how much mums give of themselves not just during pregnancy and birth but once you have a child your view of the world changes, your priorities and even your relationships. Being a mom has made me a better person.
By six months I’d bought the crib and annoyed my husband until he put it together, baby clothes nappies the whole nine but honestly I don’t think I quite knew how much my life would change. Any words of encouragement to young mothers to be? What was the worst advice you received? You are doing a great job. Anything other Don’t sleep too much or your baby will sleep people tell you as ‘advice’ is just that ‘advice’! too much during the day. The boy does not You don’t have to take it. Raise your kids the sleep. best way you know how and don’t let people’s When giving birth, how did it feel knowing judgements tear you down. As long as your child is happy, healthy and protected that’s you were about to become a mother? all that matters. I was overwhelmed it didn’t fully sink in until I had my little boy in my arms, I just What does international women’s day kept saying oh my God! It was like the last 7 mean to you? hours didn’t exist. To be honest I think the day is pretty much
What helps you build that mother and overlooked. Yes we get the Social media posts and texts but it’s not celebrated like baby bond? it should be. We are awesome and really Being pregnant and feeling your baby kick should make a bigger deal about ourselves. and twist and turn then when they’re born
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
EFFUSE turns FOUR! H
appy Anniversary to us! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal readers and followers for their continuous supporte. It brings us joy to celebrate yet another milestone of dedication, growth and change. We hope to continue bringing you the best inspiring issues from us the Effuse team. As the main editor of Effuse, I want to appreciate all those that keep pushing the Effuse team to do the best and stay on the right path towards success. This magazine would not be what it is today, if it was not for our loyal supporters and contributors. I am grateful to God for giving me the vision to start Effuse and for Him to continue keeping us at Effuse Magazine on track. Once again thank you! Don’t forget to check out the previous issues and continue sharing. Plus more exciting issues and feature coming soon!
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Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
EFFUSE
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WORLDS BEST INSPIRING MAGAZINE
SPECIAL EDITION DEC - JAN ISSUE
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
@iamtrayc The concept was inspired by Black Panther. After watching the movie, I had the urge to research more about my heritage. I was so moved by the female empowerment portrayed by the female guards which clarified the strength female hold. I always believed that, you can be who you want, which is why I wanted to create a look that was so powerful. The team was also made up of 4 females to show what women can achieve, when their creativity come together.
Photographer @VISUALSBYCHEZ
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Ef fus e Magazine | March - April
Make Up by @KarenMessam
@_msajadi Dress by @Pilinkaitejolanta