C.Hub Creativity. Entertainment. Black
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2.Volume 1.
Africa through her talents Liz Ogumbo Queen of Kenyan - soul re-invents the modest woman with La romance d'ete
Hublot unveils F1TM King Power Austin
Red carpet at BEFFTA awards 2012 Sir Trevor McDonald The best and worst dressed Meet Britain's first social media millionaire - Franklin Boateng On safari to Kenya with Isaac Muchiry How your make-up can deny you that job
F1TM King Power Austin. The exclusive story of fusion.
www.hublot.com
Spray as you like! www.debenhams.com
Contents December - January 2012/13 Editors end Editor’s letter Editor’s fancy
6 8
Fashion Liz Ogumbo’s la romance d’ete Manbag madness Eldimaa’s timeless ankara Wangu jeans for the curvey woman Mens fashion Keve vs Enzi foot
10 14 15 17 18
The Jeweller’s Lounge Meaning of gem stones
20
Hub Search The wonder boy: Ayo Ruphie
24
Features Two of a Kind: Subysinem Make every woman count Social Media Millionaire: Franklin Boateng
26 38 42
Events IrockUK’s Tribes of Africa Jewish World Jamboree NEL Awards Beffta Awards
28 32 34 36
Creative Lounge Nnenna Okore’s inspirations Tribal greeting cards: Manubiah
44 46
Creative Lounge Nnenna Okore’s inspirations Reviews
44 48
Travel Suite On a Safari to Kenya Harmattan explained
54 56
Food Cake recipes Real taste of Africa
62 64
Home Finding comfort at home Add the finishing touches
66 67
Health and Beauty Beauty Blunders Autumn skin care guide Harmattan eye care
68 69 70
Relationship Fall but never stumble Why Great women never get it right
71 72
Hub People Black history steel of will
74
Laugh it out Random jokes Crack your brains
78 79
Hub reader’s Corner What you’ve been saying
80
C.Hub Creativity. Entertainment. Black
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 5
Editor’s Letter
From Editor’s End. We’ve had the sun we loved the fun. Here we are with the autumn winter breeze and cold. A dynamic world we have, the wondrous works of an almighty hand. December introduces the months of the freeze. As the days get colder, we are drawn even closer to the nostalgic Christmas memories. I still remember vividly as a child how we used to talk of smelling Christmas in the air. That was back in the village in the hamarttan dust. (Ohhhh, missing my childhood). It’s different on this side of the ocean, the cold, the sniffles, the wind, the sneezes, yet we are all geared up to the shops in search of the best for those who matter most to us. You are not alone. Our expert guide to finding the best gifts without breaking the bank will help you keep your pocket in check. In this issue of C. Hub, we are with you in every way. Helping you to remember having your eyes on the real deal rather than just the season. Showcasing Africa through her talents, from authentic fashion designers and designs, to taking you back to your roots stamping deeply into your memories the important histories of our nations with our safari to Kenya. There is nothing left to imagination with this issue. Liz Ogumbo brings her magic to keep you tipped in love with her La Romance d'ete collections. Irock's Tribes of Africa fashion show brings to you the bold and beautiful prints of Africa, Nnenna Okore wins the Fulbright scholar award and we bring you the designs crafted with precision. There are now greeting cards designed for you in your own tribe whoever you are to help you send the message exactly as you want it with Manubiah. Britain’s biggest social media success story is in @Fabsnetwork as you will see... We have gone even wider in our book, music and movie reviews. C. Hub was also at BEFFTA award, NEL awards, Jewish jamboree and to commemorate Black history month, we re-echo the 'Steel of Will' from our great men and women. All for your perusal this season. This is the real deal to take you into 2013. Hooray! HO! HO! HO! Merry Xmas and happy New Year ... Your girl, Faustina Anyanwu @fauntee Chief Editor.
6 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Eyes on the talents!
C.Hub Creativity. Entertainment. Black
If you can see this, so would thousands... See your business here. info@fauntee.com Find us on
Editor's Fancy. ...At the core of C.Hub is the quest to unlock the unique stories being told through the art of creativity. For me, the relevance of any piece is what makes it art worthy. It is this worthiness I have found in these images.
1
2
3
4 6
5 From left to right: 1. Whether or not you're a diamond freak, this crystal tear drop chandilier is worth eye catching anytime. The combination of its bejewelled luminiscence and its rich appeal is undeniably radiant, sophisticated and a symbol of accomplishment. Can only be found at debenhams.com 2. Beauty they say is in the eye of the beholder. But this portrait of an African woman redifines that. Now beauty is the sparkle of a pure eye blended with elegance and grace. One that is in the eye of anyone that have eyes. 3. This floor lamp stands alone in an old brick house yet its light continues to shine. A symbol of optimissim in the midst of obscurity and gloom. Why don't YOU let your light shine! 4. This picture of a samura Kenyan girl wearing handmade jewellery of deep and rich colours shows the diversity of African culture. Her smiles exudes peace and innocence, I began to wonder. Which is better digital age or the scerenity of our natural being? 5. Venice is famously the world's centre of beauty. But this white and black sketch of Venice captures ones imagination leaving the viewer to decide. Is it truly beautiful or just a veil of emptiness? 6. The vibrant colours of Tanzanian flag represented in this wing painting depicts the warmth and friendship that is freely shared in Africa yet to rise has only been a thing left to be hoped for. 8 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Hublot F1TM King Power Austin.
Hublot's reputation dates back to decades. The making of its first prestigious Swiss watch brand that is fused with precious metals and natural rubber sparked a genuine revolution in beauty and material revolution in watch making. Ever since have continued to make impressive growth in hightech and manufacture, not withstanding, Hublot have remained true to its Swiss tradition.Yet enriched with the visionary creativity of the 21st century. www.hublot.com December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C . Hub 9
Fashion.
Liz Ogumbo The journey of a woman of many talents: computer science graduate, top model, performing artist, fashion designer, published author, and now Liz Ogumbo is swimming in love knowing she deserves every bit of it. Interview By Faustina Anyanwu Just sitting beside her, I could feel the power of love from a woman who has known romance. This beau is not just a creative entity, but she is a bold woman with
Paris. The smart woman she is, Liz will never work away
confidence, style and drive. Oh, heaven has blessed the
from it all without learning something. In our interview
man who has won her heart forever. What is so sterling
for C. Hub, I try to ride deeper into the soul of this
about Liz is that at every point in her way, she is so
creative phenomenon.
certain of what she wants and she goes for nothing but that.
Being an author
Born into a family of creativity, Liz grew up in the midst
Her book; "The modelling industry, who is the ideal
of naturally talented women. Her mother, a renowned
model", Liz takes me through her journey as a top
seamstress and her grand mother an accomplished
model. The tales of the darker side of the industry is
singer. Liz embraced both talents weaving them
enough to bring tears down my cheeks just listening to
together to tell stories that can only be experienced.
her. Much to her dismay, Liz does not understand why
The uniqueness of her talent sets apart each piece of her work giving her total package a tone that is more than meet the eye: The KenSoul effect 15 years ago while studying computer science at Montgomery College in MD USA, Liz’s journey into the world of high fashion and modelling began with the speed of light. As soon as she was introduced on the runway in New York city, her distinct features, her slender frame, her dark brown skin, and her 6ft height gave her an edge over the ‘experienced professional’ models. From henceforth, there was no sign of her light blinking as she continued to attract the runways more than the boys. She got the opportunity to walk on world’s prestigious runways in NYC, LA, Milano and
10 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Fashion. general approach on how to believe in yourself and trust that you are ideal in whatever you set out to pursue in life". She continued, "No one told me what to expect 15years ago. I have written this book hoping it will inspire and help build self esteem within many girls and every other soul struggling to feel the sense of belonging; those in pursuit of finding themselves. I share some of my laughs and cries and how they affect my life today. My spiritual approach to life and the steps I take to be the change. My heart bleeds when I see the wave getting bigger by the day as the world continues to rotate on routine. The clock ticks and tocks as time declines to wait on the anorexics to recover". Smiling she continues, "not even enough time is set aside for the crack-heads to make it to the rehab. The rain hits the media have refused to throw some light into this
hard when it does, and when the dry season comes,
part and everyday side of the industry. Instead have
the green land dries up no matter what you did last
continued to tell only of the fairy good and glamorous
summer".
make believe of fashion and modelling industry. The bad ugly reality is left for the unsuspecting innocent young
Being a performing artist
girls to jump into and experience. "This is not your ‘top ten tips on how to stay thin’ handbook neither is it your
Listening to her speak, I could hear and feel the sweet
‘guarantee to success within your hectic modelling
sound of her soulful tone. I was then convinced that
career’. Rather, ‘Who is the ideal model’ brings out a
yes, she is a natural talent in this one. I wanted to hear
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 11
Fashion. the story behind the album KenSoul. You know what, Liz is a natural vibe and she will give it to me straight. "KenSoul is my Kenyan soul she explains. It allows me to express myself and air my stories. Story telling may sound like a thing of the past, but for me it is the basis of my music. I use my music to stylishly tell stories of my Kenyan origin and global influences into a 12 track colourful quilt of Kenyan Luo, Swahili, English, French, song writing and vocal expression. It expresses playful energy that is passionately telling of a soul journey of which musical roots are anchored in Luo tradition and carried by earthy vocals with Ohangala inspired sounds and coastal beats , lyrics, humid, sensuous and all together unforgettable". Truly this sounds to me as an invitation to explore a contemporary African musical expression with a
it brings, good food, good wine, the book of life, family,
mixture of jazzy tones to ‘nu-soul’ energy to reggae
friends, positive and happy people. (Laughing she could
‘riddims’ riding on spoken words to bring a unique
count on and on.)
sound dubbed KenSoul.( A new voice in the African music-scape).
Being in Love
Being a Fashion designer
As our chat gets deeper and deeper, Liz in her sweetness allows herself to tell it as it is. I tried to have
Mesmerised by the sound of it, I couldn’t help but
a hold onto the source of her happiness. Liz’s eye lights
wonder how about Liz’s fashion collections. How does
up with excitement to that. "I love life generally, but I
Liz connect these talents yet each on its own stands
found more love in this Prince of St Vincent". Speaking
out distinctly. I decided to ask how does being a singer
of her 3day wedding in 3 venues to her Prince
and a designer work out for you? "I have a concept that
charming who she would do anything to protect his
really works out for me when I showcase during a
privacy at least for now. The beautiful boutique wedding
fashion show. I perform live throughout the show other
celebrated in the company of their closest friends and
than having a track play as the models strut down the
family all the way in the Diani beach in the South coast
runway. There is a deeper connection with the collection, the music, the models and the audience. Music definitely allows me to tell my story. Many times I free style, speaking of each piece, its history, what’s fresh about it and why you have to get it as each model showcases them. It’s much more fun and interactive and somehow, feels like the easiest way to explain the collection. I have also introduced my music into my fashion through application of printed- lyrics on my jackets lining and other garments. A way through which you can feel KenSoul connected and inspired". Being Motivated Filled with much energy, joy, happiness, passion, love, hope, faith and style, Liz is motivated by life and all that
12 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Fashion. described as delicate, fragile, and decorative". Is this how Liz wants to feel in the arms of her Prince? But No, She was quick to dismiss that. " These pieces redefine ‘getting pushed back into a modest role’ still being in charge as a strong beautiful woman, yet carrying that delicate elegance around as I flirt with printed –chiffon with a variety of hand beaded /sequinned –encrusted bodices, from tea length hems to full length with brush trains…" . Whatever Liz has chosen to say of this collection, I still will not accept that the Prince of St Vincent does not inspire the design. But then, I decided to go with the flow, though honestly, these pieces are bringing pure elegance, red-carpet feel with the ensemble of chiffon, embellished bodice that creates a non – conventional approach to modern day bridal of Mombasa. Something Liz says she has never
wear. To me the perfect result is – romantic, soft and
experienced before. Liz rolls her eyes wishing the
effortless elegance to your doorsteps.
dream will continue as she recounts it all. " From the overall planning to the cuisine to the 3 venues in 3days,
As a matter of fact, Liz expresses in all her collections
on the same beach, the white and gold, the serenity
including ‘Romance d’ete’ that less is more. She
that the sea freely gave to us. The friends and family, the
minimises fuss and accentuates the beauty of our
whole experience was just amazing. Oh! And the man
individuality as beautiful whole women. She believes
must truly be a God sent". She exclaimed. "I am happily
that everyday should be a celebration of that
in love and feel blessed, safe and look forward to more
BEAUTIFUL WOMAN, and an opportunity to make
laughter in my body, mind and soul".
her mark.
Staying relaxed
Liz Ogumbo’s jewellery and clothing range is a must have for the modern, fashion savvy woman who is
Liz general philosophy is also incorporated in how she
ready to embrace elegance in a timeless and endless
relaxes from it all. Spending more time immersing into
pieces. The cuts are sleek with simple-yet--provocative
positive spaces filled with laughter, joy and happiness
designs that can only be worn with an attitude, that
and of course massage, more massage, chocolates and
comes from within. Do not dare to wear if you are not
good wine. Liz strongly believes that prayer resolves any
BOLD!
issues or hard feelings including stress. For Liz, there is nothing as trends in her dictionary. "I Romance d’ete collection
don’t do trends" she says. "Forget trends and wear what looks best on you. The truth is, trends will come and go,
Being loved truly can greatly inspire and what I was
but you, you are not going any where so better get
privileged to touch and feel could explain. This
comfortable and pretty. Liz believes that everything a
collection has been named Romance d’ete. My ear
woman has in her wardrobe is a must have – 1000
flares up to hear the entire gist behind this exquisite,
pairs of jeans, 1000pairs of hot heels name it.
breathtaking collection. An intelligent woman she is, the story goes beyond the drama of romance found in a
Now speaking to the African girl/woman, Liz says, "You
new love. Romance d’ete collection translating into
are beautiful, whole and complete, lacking nothing! Let
summer romance gives the "impression of effortless
your light shine!
chic, elegance, and sophistication", she explains. " In this era, women of this Romantic Movement were pushed
You can get Liz’s songs, collections and books on:
back into a modest role befitting the ‘weaker sex’, often
Lizogumbo.com
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 13
Fashion.
Man bag Madness By SDO More gadgets more loads for men the result the man bag madness. Recently, Debenhams UK high street fashion retailer revealed a record sale in the man bag this year. The retailer has seen a whooping 2700% increase in sales of man bags. Since the start of the year, according to David Moffat (Debenhams senior buyer for men’s accessories), “gone are the days of just a bunch of keys and a wallet in your pocket, now man bags are rivalling a woman’s in both size and weight. Men are taking tips from Mary Poppins and cramming in everything but the kitchen sink. For the autumn winter 2012, we have extended our offer to include bags with greater capacity to satisfy our customers bag needs.” It is also noted that, it’s not just the weight but the value of their content has gone through the roof as well. A man’s bag now holds an average of £1.108 in content. This is due to the popularity of costly tablets, smart phones and their likes. Jay Z and Kanye West are among the stars in the forefront of man bag craziness says our source. You can get your man bag from Debenhams stores nation-wide or on line at debenhams.com
14 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Fashion.
Eldimaa’s timeless and exquisite ankara for the everyday woman By Estella Moses. We were first taken by the unique
daughter, it’s another demand to be fulfilled.
timeless focus on the everyday woman by Eldimaa’s designs at the Africa fashion
On meeting up with Design trends: My pieces are designed way
week London. We decided to find out
ahead of time. I have already started with next year’s designs. I
more about the brand’s backbone.
have to do my material sourcing – fabric, labels, and stuff, then make the samples and send to the manufacturers here in
Inspiration: As a young girl I have
London.
always loved to make people look and feel good. So I simply followed my
On branding: Eldimaa is strictly inspired
passion.
by Africa but made in UK. Always made with
Education: I took up studies in women’s wears and
prints are mixed with a tint of European
accessories at London college of fashion. But then my
fabrics.
African fabrics except on few occasions they
Nigerian parents did not accept that as a proper degree. So I went back to study economics and business
Background: My parents are Nigerians and I
at Kingston University Surrey.
was raised in UK. I like to represent my
Motivation: I want to make people look and
experiences from both sides in my designs.
feel their best. I believe that the way a person dresses reflects how she feels inside. Looking
Challenges: The major challenge is getting the brand out there
good and state of mind go hand in a glove. So
and making it a global name.
I am doing my part to make sure that women see their reflection in the mirror and go oh I
Icon: Alicia Keys – she is a mum yet very
look good. Each time I see women ooze with
much dedicated to her music and fans. She
confidence and properly dressed I am
makes great timeless music. Also, Kate
motivated.
Middleton, I would love to see them wear Eldimaa designs one day.
On the Hallmark: I would say I am not yet there. I haven’t reached where I
Winter Collection: We use warm fabrics,
want to be. I love to make a huge name like Vivian
but not really winter focused since our
Westwood the 70year old English woman. Her designs are
designs are timeless. However, we have the
bold, she doesn’t care what people think of her. She is
peplum on trend.
original and supports charities and African designers. Next Step: We’re looking to diversify with the brand. Expansion On Schedule: I
is on our mind, we would be going into evening wears, men's
have very busy days.
wear, children’s and home wares too. But that would be in the
9am to 5pm I have to
next one to two years.
go to work come back to continue to
Final Word: I want people to give Eldimaa a try. Come and
pay detailed attention
experience African print like never before. Our designs and fabrics
to the intricacies of
work so well to flatter the woman’s body at all the important
designing our pieces. I
places. Our prices are friendly too.
don’t really have
Price ranges from £50.00
personal or social life. With a young Eldimaa's Timeless Ankara Exquisite for the everyday woman.
eldimaafashion.com
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 15
TRANZEET LAUNDRY & DRYCLEANING SERVICE
Brief :
For professionals who place high premium on grooming. Free Home/ Office Pick-up/ delivery Very affordable Clean your garments wherever you are Convenient/ Flexible Payment/ Service packages. We Are Als Laundry D o In-house Hotels , Tra rycleanes For & Corpora ining Centres te Organisa tions. 6a, akinwunmi str, off sunmola str, mende, Maryland, Lagos. tel: 08023210675, E-mail:tranzeetventures@yahoo.com 07061356154
Fashion.
Discover the Jeans with the curvy woman in mind with Wangu Jeans By Noni Jay Could you tell me of your becoming a fashion jeans designer. I’ve been in the fashion industry now for more than 16 years. I took my education at the "Kolding School of Design", which is one of our two national accredited design institutions in Denmark.The education itself is a 5-year Master’s program, with a degree in Industrial Design, which is highly regarded throughout Europe. Having completed my education, I have worked with some of the leading and largest textile companies in Denmark, both within young men's and women's fashion design.
quality, as well as to understand the importance of style, comfort and fashion trends for today's young and modern women. All our jeans collection reflects our commitment to quality, definitive styling, flawless designs and our customers' unique needs. At WanguJeans passion, inspiration and innovation is our drive.
Why did you settle for jeans and not any other fashion style? My inspiration to launch a jeans line was based on the principle: "Jeans with the African woman in mind" recognising the need to design jeans for women with curvy figures - a target audience other brands of jeans seem to have overlooked!
What has been your greatest challenge since becoming a designer? It is a 24/7 job to start up your own brand, as both Managing and Creative Director, (in charge of all the bits and pieces), there's a lot to co-ordinate, while travelling to fairs, shows and attending meetings. It is not a 9-5 job.
What materials do you use in making your jeans? We only use original Italian fabrics, (97% cotton 3% elastane), to give our customers the best product. Each garment is crafted with great attention to workmanship, construction, fit and quality. What makes WanguJeans different from the rest? We fit our garments on differently sized models, to make sure that they are flattering in all the right places. WanguJeans offers more room in the hip, rear and thigh areas - yet the waistline is contoured and streamlined to fit the smaller waist, with no gaping at the waistband. Are any of your jeans designed for men? (We only make jeans for women) At this stage we have no plans to design jeans for men. However, we may consider designing our jeans range for men as well as a children's range sometime in the near future. What makes a perfect pair of jeans for you? For me, it’s all about the fit, design and
Do you wear your own designs? I would love to, but there are no WanguJeans for men yet but my wife and daughters do! As I mentioned before, at this time we only make jeans for women.
Who are your target markets? At this moment we are targeting retail stores in the cosmopolitan cities of Europe, North America and Africa. Later we would like to go mainstream and also enter the South American market, where there is also a large customer potential and needs for our concept. With so many exhibitions and events to showcase, how do you get time to develop a design concept? To come up with a great design is crucial in the fashion industry, where little space is left for mistakes. Design and development are key priorities, you just have to invest time and effort whether it is available or not. Do you think it’s a lot of work being a great designer? It's about ambitions, lifestyle and passion. When focused I don’t think about time and space. It is loads of hard work and sacrifice, but at the end of the day all rewarded, when you see the results. Do you consider yourself successful at the moment? Each moment is a success! If you are passionate about your work, and feel challenged every day, then, yes, you feel you have accomplished something very exciting. But again the reward
comes when customers appreciate your work. That is a blessing. You were at the AFWL and at PURE LONDON, how would you describe both events, and what was your experience? AFWL was a great experience, actually the first time our product was promoted on stage. Great crowd, loads of fantastic energy, met other designers inspired like us. Really felt welcomed, showcasing the AFWL at the Spitalfields Market was a genius idea.The buyers market at PureLondon is different. All the European brands are there, with products coming in from Asia as well.They showcase fashion, young designers, and accessories: bags, shoes, and hats. Also on the technology site companies were well represented. We didn’t have a stand there, the representation from AFWL was close to none existent. I had a chat with PureLondon and was actually discussing the opportunity to share a larger stand with other AFWL inspired brands, and be much louder in the venue, maybe even participate in the catwalk branded by AFWL.Things to consider! How do we get WanguJeans and what is the price range? Our website wangujeans.com shows where we sell in retail and online. Our products are available world-wide. Our prices depend on the model, but we target a price range of £125 and upwards. It is a high quality product. What do you want to say to WanguJeans wearers? WanguJeans has recognised the need to design jeans for women with curvy figures. WanguJeans is a brand with an attitude designing jeans that fits your unique body size and shape. As a "must have" wardrobe essential, you cannot go wrong with a pair of jeans designed with you in mind!
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 17
Fashion.
Men’s Fashion Designers: Keve V’s Enzi Foot wear By Vivian Frankie
Keve Fashion Brand Introducing the next big thing in the fashion world: Keve Designer Brand. They are young, they are fresh, they are talented, they are brother and sister, they are fashion for the future, they are Keve! Elodie(sister) and Olivier (brother) the Badohuns, the brother and sister behind the next African inspired design Keve. A brand that has all its energy geared towards making Africa and its people better. Driven by passion for Africa and love for fashion, these young French born Togolaise siblings began a journey on bringing on their own fashion brand – Keve. "Introduction". The beginning of a brand for men’s clothing of Elodie, at the age of 15 had been cutting, sewing and tinkering
ethical inspiration.
with old sheets and fabrics. After several studies in different fields,
Keve stands out by its particular style, mixing Europe "Pret – a-
she did not find satisfaction in any of those. She decided to come
Porter" conformity to traditional African materials offering a
back to her passion and love - Fashion designing. "I have always
unique fashion pieces. The brand keeps emerging, approaching
wanted to be an African designer, that is the only work I want to
trendy and urban people attached to authentic things and strong
be known with, so I followed my heart."
values. Keve is willing to share ideas and dress most people as it can without limits. Making African treasures more accessible to
Olivier is rather driven by his love for fashion as a consumer than
the wider world. Keve materials are mostly wax and basin, which
the maker. As a lover of good fashion, a person with high
they believe, should glory everywhere not only in Africa.
taste for what he wears, Olivier thought there weren’t much good enough African designs for him in the
Having to face squarely their greatest challenge which was to
market. He was then influenced to join his sister Elodie
work with several African tailors, a venture that was new for
in the quest to propose a new style, a new way of
them and having to work from far away, Keve have managed
wearing the African touch for every body not just for
to pull through a collection to be proud of. Though the
Blacks. African fashion should be global he believes. Olivier is inspired to create what he called sterling designs with the African touch.
challenge was tough, Keve is driven by the long-term objective to create employment and activity in Africa especially Lome. "If we had the chance, we had reach our goal of building our
Inspired by life, Colour, Africa, nature and
workshop in Togo sooner than we did. That
everything that can be seen, felt, and heard,
remains our only regret. But now our focus
Keve is all about the senses, the
is to propose more styles of our shirts,
environment and nature.
more articles for women, more creations and open our boutiques. So that in the
Their visit to "meet Africa" in 2010 was like
next 5 years, Keve would have been a
a rediscovery for them which was to spark
household name in global fashion and
the fire to their first collection –
still be manufactured in west Africa.
18 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Fashion.
ENZI unveils high quality men’s footwear range truly made in Ethiopia New ethical fashion brand sets sights on redefining perceptions of
"Britain, and London in particular, has a culture of
Africa through quality and style.
embracing eclecticism, new trends and new ways of
ENZI, a new high-end fashion brand using the finest, ethically
thinking. We want to spark a global revolution in thinking
sourced materials from Africa has today unveiled plans to launch
through doing something that stands apart. The UK seems
its men’s footwear range in the UK this summer. The brainchild of
like the natural home for that."
four entrepreneurs from the UK, the USA and Africa, ENZI aims to reinvent perceptions of Africa through high quality fashion and
Core to its philosophy is ENZI’s commitment to the artists and
a global business model founded on supporting real economic
workers that produce the footwear. Maasai women usually paid
growth in various African countries. ENZI shoes first arrived on
very little for their work provides beading detail on special
British shores in May this year.
edition shoes. ENZI not only pays an amount proportionate to the shoe value, but the women will be part of a community
The flagship model, Menelik, designed by the ENZI team and
board of suppliers that have a direct influence on the growth and
produced by artisan craftsmen in Ethiopia, using the best leather
future of the business. Going beyond just fair pay, factory
and materials sourced from Africa. Sam Imende, CEO of ENZI
workers commissioned by ENZI will also receive a percentage of
commented, "We want to bring Africa back into fashion. Right
the organisation’s profits. ENZI will operate a complete supply
now, when most people think of Ethiopia, they probably don’t
chain transparency structure to assure customers not only of the
think of the world’s highest quality leather, entrepreneurial
fair pay provided to suppliers but also the additional business
manufacturers looking to set a global standard or communities
support they give to them through the ENZI Africa Accelerator
looking for ways to support themselves through international
programme. Despite being a pre-launch start-up, ENZI has
commerce. They think of stereotypes established decades ago. If
already received widespread praise from industry insiders and
ENZI achieves its goal, this will change."
has a burgeoning online following on Facebook and Twitter. Sam Imende added, "We are the starting point of something very
ENZI was conceived when CO-founder Jawad Braye was visiting
exciting. All of the positive response we’ve had from retailers and
Azariah Mengistu in Ethiopia, where they discovered an abundant
consumers is a great sign, but we all have our sights set firmly on
supply of premium leather and witnessed an emerging footwear
making this a success."
manufacturing industry. In their excitement, the concept of producing a men’s fashion brand based in Africa was born from both a frustration with the misconceptions about Africa of their peers and the fact that there was not a fashion brand that fully represented them. As they began working on the first prototype shoe, they reached out to close friends, Sam Imende and Christian Ward, to partner in this venture. The ENZI team is now based all over the world, from Paris to Addis Ababa, and their strategy is to maintain an eclectic and global viewpoint on the market, which led to the group selecting London for its global launch. "We want to demonstrate that Africa has an equal role to play in the union of cultures that defines global fashion, that Africa can stand tall on the shoulders of its quality, creativity and craftsmanship," added Creative Director, Jawad Braye.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 19
The Jewellers Lounge.
Understanding the meaning of Gemstones
‌From last issue we looked at the various uses and meaning of gemstones for centuries. We talked about Opal and Moon stones. Here we are with more findings about your precious stones. Lapis Lazuli: The stone of the sky as believed by the ancient age. It comes usually in deep blue colours with a touch of gold. It has been used for centuries to bring calmness, love and passion. It has also been worn for strength and knowledge and to achieve faithfulness in relationships. Diamonds: These are one of the most valued stones of all time. They are usually colourless, champagne, pink, or transparent. The Greeks believed these stones were stars thrown down from heaven by God. They are abundantly found in West African coast of Sierra Leone. These stones are believed to be pure, give courage and protection. They signify beauty, love and give clear thinking to the wearer. These days, diamonds are associated with wealth, power, success, honour, and dignity. They are everlasting. Citrine: This is a stone known for knowledge and understanding, they are believed to promote creativity, stimulate the mind and keeps a person alert. It also brings good energy, clears negative thoughts and brings self-confidence, strength, and self-discipline. They come in yellows. The Beryl: This is a family of stones namely: Emerald, Helidor, Mirganite, Aquamarines, and cat eyes. Emerald and Aquamarine are the most popular in the family. Emerald: is associated with opulence, elegance, beauty and exquisite. It is the stone of love, romance, optimism, prosperity, unity, fertility and tranquillity. Emerald is the stone of Venus the goddess of love. Aquamarine: Is believed to come from the sea, hence, stone of the mermaid. It is widely used by sailors for protection from the sea waves. It comes in cool blues and greens. The cool colours reflecting its true qualities of uplifting moods, enhancing knowledge, calming fears, bringing focus and success. It clears depression, brings cheerfulness and brings for sight. The search continues‌
20 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
The Jewellers Lounge.
The hottest fashion buys for the season: with Style Queen Director Sharon Nugent If you are one of those who only can dream of the perfect fitted piece of clothing only to get to the shop and still settle for the same pieces you will only get home to regret buying them, then you are not alone. Years back, my younger sisters would jubilate if they heard I have gone clothes shopping knowing they automatically would be having some new stock for their wardrobe. Not that I am any better now though. Thanks goodness today help is at hand with Sharon the professional stylist and Director of Style Queen Boutique London. About Style Queen When it comes to gift ideas, Style Queen Boutique specialises in retailing statement accessories & occasion wear, as well as providing personal styling services. From costume jewellery sets, Winter/New Year 'Wardrobe Workout' which could be purchased by anyone especially those who have filled up wardrobes and still complain not to see what to wear. Their professional Stylist will help you edit/de-clutter your wardrobe. Providing a body shape analysis, help you identify your personal style, offer guidance on clothing that flatters the body, suits your lifestyle, personality, & Colour. Style Queen will also show you how to put outfits together from a capsule wardrobe, offer advice on selecting accessories, identifying 'gaps' in the wardrobe, and offer advice on complementing the existing wardrobe with new season purchases. The objective of the session is to help you sort & refresh your wardrobe, with any unwanted or unflattering clothes highlighted for recycling, charity shop or throwaway, and unworn but personally meaningful items identified for archiving. Style queen charges from ÂŁ180.00 for the first 3 hours, and additional ÂŁ60/hour after that. Their body shape analysis is by appointment only. To place orders email: stylequeenboutique@yahoo.com Sharon Nugent Director Style Queen Boutique, 3 Vining street, London, SW8QA
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 21
Ice watch made for the trendy www.ice-watch.com
My Black woman Showcasing the many talents and contributions of Black women. www.mypearlwoman.blogspot.com
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 23
The Hub search:
A dig in the mind of a wonder boy with an eye in the future: Ayo Ruphie. By Gozie Nwagwu
Ayo is a 21 year old Pharmacy undergraduate at university of Kent. He had previously studied Btech in medical science at Bromley College where he made triple distinctions. Talented and cool-headed young guy an example to youths of his time. This guy can do anything and very well too. Check this out, he is a footballer, a dancer - a member of one of London’s top dance groups; UNIQUE SILVER DANCERS. Ayo is also a part time model. In his short time as a dancer, he has had to perform with various famous artists including May7ven, Atumpan, Tyroon, Da Prince, Kas and many more.
How did you get into dancing and modelling, and why?
How often do you have to rehearse or perform with
I have been dancing right from my childhood days, but I didn’t
the group?
really start professionally until March 2012 when I went for an
We rehearse at least twice a week but whenever we have a
audition. I have also always admired modelling and it was my tutor back in college that gave me the opportunity to tryout modelling. My first modelling show was at the Black
performance coming up, we rehearse four times a week. We perform as a group at most shows but it also depends on the booking and if they want female dancers or male dancers or both.
History Month. I decided to go into
How has the group helped you
dancing because it
develop your dancing skills?
is my natural talent and I
The group has helped a lot, because at
enjoy it whenever I dance.
rehearsals everyone brings in different
Dancing is part of me and brings out
ideas to the dance routines. I get to
the best in me.
teach other members my style of dance; I get to help others catch up
What is the biggest performance
on dance choreography. I learn from
you’ve been in?
others as well.
I have been in so many big
How about football, how
performances but my two biggest
far have you gone with
performances are; the first is The John
that?
Utaka Charity Foundation Launch at
I used to play football at
the Hilton Hotel in Paddington and
a semi pro level, but
the second will be the dbanj and
I broke my leg
friends concert at HMV Apollo,
in an accident
Hammersmith.
so I haven’t decided if I am
Why did you join the unique silver dancers?
going to go back to playing football
I met them at a rehearsal with an Afrobeat artist,
full-time again but I
they liked the way I dance and I was invited to join their group.
do kick about with
I also joined so as to get a platform to showcase what I can do.
friends during the weekends.
24 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Are u still going to practise Pharmacy?
What is next for you?
Yes, I am definitely going to practise pharmacy, I have always
I’m going back to university, still going to be dancing as well. The
planned to have a career through my education and to also have
rest will be sorted as they come.
another career through my talent. Thank you Ruphie for your time. Triple distinction wow, how did you do that? Thanks to God for the knowledge, thanks to my parent for their
It's a pleasure having you too.
constant pestering (laughs) that I should read my book, hard work, motivation, staying focused and at the end I achieved my
Follow Ayo on twitter: @IamRuphie
aim. No pain No gain. Which is your favourite- pharmacist, dancer, model, football team, footballer and which are you settling for finally and why? I’m going to settle for pharmacy and dance, because dance is part of me and at the same time I would like to have a qualification through my education. You’ve got the brain, the talent, the looks, how is it with the girls? (laughs) I stay grounded with girls, I have a lot of female friends though but I don’t let it get into me. I’m always cool with the girls. Are you a ladies man? (laughs) I can’t tell you that, I will let the ladies decide. Who is your favourite artist (African)? Tough one, I’m not going to lie; I haven’t got a favourite African artist because I like them all. Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My biggest inspiration is my Parent. Every time I lookup to them I always learn something new. Those two are the best thing that’s ever happened in my life, their advice, support, never give up attitude has made me who I am today. Their favourite words are" it’s not how far but how well and always remember the son of whom you are".
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 25
Features.
TWO OF A KIND
Husband & Wife Fashion Photography Duo: Suby and Sinem. By Vivian Frankie Their pictures have graced the cover of almost any named Black magazine, and any known name in the African entertainment industry. Now SubySinem are charged to take over the global photographic space. If you Google the names 'Suby & Sinem' you will find a plethora of websites featuring their work. The first, and possibly still the most important, is Suby and Sinem's House on Shutterchance, an online photo-blog community where members post up their work to get constructive critique or friendly feedback. Depending on the 'SHH mood' displayed on their site (Green being 'take it easy on me' to red 'take your worst stab'). Contrary to what you may expect, the couple did not meet as a result of their mutual love of photography. While Suby dabbled in photography from an early age, having grown up with a photography enthusiast for a father, Sinem did not discover photography till later. Suby’s debut as a professional fashion photographer came in 2005, shortly before he quit a career in project management to set up his photography business full-time. "I realized that people would never take me seriously if I continued moonlighting as a photographer while holding a 9 to 5 job, no matter how good my images were. So I quit my job and worked hard to improve my skills and consistently strive to learn new ones." Explained Suby. By April 2006, Sinem finally took note of the camera and thus began the journey of the fashion photography. Couple who jokingly refer to themselves as "buy one, get one free." For this reason to date, do not separate their work from each other rather they prefer to simply credit images to ‘SubySinem’. Although, like any couple working together and pursuing the same passion, Suby and Sinem also experience creative differences from time to time, they are comfortable working around each other though. Their teamwork on
photo shoots have been described by the words, "magical" and "seamless". Many who have worked with the couple on countless times, often say, "It is almost as if you no longer notice when one stops shooting and the other starts; they are so in tune with each other." The couple’s single aim is to create the kind of iconic images, which, years later, will continue to mesmerise and inspire the viewer in equal measure. "We are creative photographers; we want to push the boat out and not just contend with the same old," Suby asserts. With this in mind, the couple continue to challenge each other and their creative teams to consistently think outside the box; and to date they have taken on numerous innovative projects including merging their talents with those of UK’s established body artist Sarah Terry on a number of editorial shoots. The couple have worked with a range of international and African magazines some of which include C. Hub magazine, Trendsetter, Elle Turkey, New African Woman, Arise and Pride while also focusing on FAB Magazine with Sinem as the editor-in-chief and Suby as the creative director. They have worked with some stellar names in African and international music such as, eLDee, Banky W, MI, Asa, Shingai Shoniwa, Loick Essien and Skepta. Their fashion portfolio also boasts of working with some of the leading names of African fashion such as Adebayo Jones, Kosibah, Samantha Cole, Nkwo in the UK and Deola Sagoe, House of Jola, Zebra Living and Exclamations Couture in Nigeria. With numerous memorable fashion and entertainment shoots and issue after
26 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
fabulous issue of FAB Magazine for a portfolio, the couple have turned their attention to their new venture in the form of S Two PR, which looks after Africa Fashion Week London. "It was a natural progression to transfer our skills. "We possess the creative, verbal, written and interpersonal skills required of a good publicist. For years, we have been advising emerging and supporting established designers with their labels and connecting people, and we finally had the epiphany that we had been doing PR for years without really naming it." Says Sinem. For the multi-talented and hard-working couple that is Suby and Sinem, it seems the sky is not the limit but the beginning for many more decades in the creative industry.
Promotions.
We are calling on philantropists and corporate bodies to join our cause. Who we are: Pauline and Wilson Foundation is
State Ministry of Health, Association of
in Lagos to empower and positively engage
Enugu Resident Non-Governmental
youths especially the unemployed in
Organizations (ASERNGO) etc.
developing their skills, fostering unity, team
registered as anon-profit organization in Nigeria to provide support to individuals
spirit, cooperation and community service Our Works:
and also providing a platform for them to
and rural communities in the country
advance their career in more financially
through Education, Empowerment,
PWF has been able to distribute
rewarding clubs in and outside the country.
Community and youth development and
educational materials to
The second Edition of this tournament is
Health projects and programs aimed at
some schools in Abia
reducing poverty and improving living
State which includes
conditions for the most vulnerable in the
Isuikwuato High school,
society.
Agboji, Onuaku, Akpukpa primary
The Foundation is named after Mr. Wilson
schools and programs
and Pauline Ogah who are role model
are underway to
citizens in their community in assisting and
distribute more in
empowering lives. The Mission of the
other parts of the
Foundation is to use all available human and material resources to build an environment that reduces poverty in
coming up later this year and the
the society.
process is already ongoing. There are various other projects and advocacy
PWF delivers on its
projects underway at PWF and the
foci through well
organization is committed to achieving its
structured
mission with it’s highly dedicated staff and
sustainable
volunteers.
programs, projects, advocacy and
For more information, please visit our
collaborations with other non-profits,
website to follow PWFs activities and how country. The Foundation has also visited
you can, partner with the organization and
government and the private sector to
various health homes and orphanages to
contribute to the development of
achieve its desired objectives. PWF is also
distribute aid to them and have
successfully implementing our various
registered with the Federal Ministry of
empowered over 20 poor widows in Lagos
programs and projects to better the lives
Education in Nigeria, Civil Society
State by training them in some skills and
of the poor and most vulnerable in our
ActionCoalitiononEducationfor
trade and subsequently gave out micro/soft
society.
All(CSACEFA), Nigerian NetworkofNon-
loans to them as venture capital to
Governmental Organizations(NNNGOs),
start/expand their businesses. PWF also last
www.paulineandwilsonfoundation.org
Lagos State MinistryofEducationDistrict
October-November 2011, organized a
Email: info@paulineandwilsonfoundation.org
V,Lagos State Football Association, Abia
successful grassroots football tournament
Tel: 01-8444903, 2348035092394.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 27
Events//
Bold and beautiful prints of Africa at the iROCK Tribes of Africa Fashion show 26 May 2012. IROCK mentee Charlene Mukuzvazva as the hostess, the show kicked off with entertainment by Spirit of Africa dancers followed by a speech by supporter of iROCK, UK property tycoon Caroline Marsh. In her speech referring to Irock’s works, Marsh stated "What iROCK does is to bring out the value and the best in young people by giving them opportunities iROCK Tribes of African Celebrates African Fashion and
of training, holding their hands and showing them how
New Generation in Style The first fund-raiser event
they can be what they ought to be. There is nothing
organised by UK-based social enterprise iROCK! UK,
more powerful than the power of belief."
Tribes of Africa, brought together 9 designers from the Continent, entertainment from Spirit of Africa dancers
It was not only the guests of honour but also mentees
and iROCK mentees and 200 guests in the grand hall of
who had a chance to speak to the guests about their
the prestigious Grange Tower Bridge Hotel on Saturday
journeys. Mentee Veronica Moipone said, "’ I ROCK!
Designer Adama Paris, Photos Subysinem.
28 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Events//
Because of irock.’ It feels so good to say that it took me
women were modelled by none other than the iROCK
a while to say that and now I say it every day". Another
mentees who brought their personalities on to the
mentee Maihji in highlighting the ethos of irock stated, "I
runway. Mentees also had the spotlight during the
hope one day I will be able to pay it forward and do for
second part of the four-course meal, with inspirational
another woman what iROCK has done for me".
poetry by mentees Belinda and Sandra, Team FAB’s Maria and poet Dumi Senda accompanied by mentee
The fashion show kicked off in grandeur with the
Kemi’s vocals and guitar. Another inspirational highlight
dazzling creations of Adebayo Jones who celebrated his
came in the form of 2009 CNN Global Hero and
birthday with the guests, Vienna-based Ayo Van Elmar,
founder of Girl Child Network, Betty Makoni. Speaking
whose thought-provoking collection addressed the
of iROCK’s partnership with Girl Child Network, Betty
violence in Northern Nigeria and London-based Tina
Makoni said, "I am touched by the fact that Viola and
Lobondi whose glam eveningwear dazzled the guests.
the girls are going to Africa to see girls who are
Other designers who showcased the diversity of
invisible, to go to a rural area and tell girls that ‘You are
African fashion were; Senegalese Adama Paris with her
a hero, not a zero’. It is bigger than any food aid that is
vibrant print swimwear, Zambian Kutowa Designs’ Lozi
advertised on television" as she dedicated a poem to
Ndaba collection inspired by the traditional style of the
Ncube and the iROCK mentees. The last speaker for
Lozi Tribe of West Zambia, Tanzanian Christine
the night was the Nigerian media mogul Ben Murray-
Mhando’s Chichia London with light and summery
Bruce who had flown in solely to attend the fundraiser.
designs, Nkwo with her Afro-bohemian designs, and Anita Quansah London whose hand-crafted jewellery
Addressing the potential of Africa plagued by poverty
was worn by models who strutted down the runway,
and political problems in passionate speech, Murray-
confident in their own skin.
Bruce urged the guests "to go back to Africa and challenge those you voted into position to lead
One of the highlights of the fashion show was the VIP
properly. Challenge them to make a difference to the
Designs catwalk where Edith Maromo’s designs for real
people who gave them the right to drink that $300
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 29
Events//
bottle of champagne. Challenge them to be better people."
of the Zulu War Dance performed by the Spirit of Africa dancers.
As guests enjoyed the four-course meal of Afro fusion cuisine and the company of distinguished guests who were
Watch out for iROCK event in Nigeria come March
also treated to copies of FAB Magazine and New African
2013‌ FABULOUS!!!
Woman and ladies to earrings by Saphani Accessories. Finally, Viola Ncube. Speaks of the ethos of iROCK, "we want our young people to engage with positive role models so we can nurture a new generation of leaders. We need to change the perception of what young black men and women will end up doing in the UK and back in Africa. We must by all means encourage young people to dream it, to dare it and to do it." In the creative team were some of the biggest names of the fashion industry; hair stylist Angela Plummer, wardrobe stylist Crystal Deroche, catwalk choreographer Julius Reuben and the lead make up artist Funmi Odegbami of Mink as well as George of Fantasia Productions, the fashion designers taking part in Tribes of Africa, and the creative couple Suby & Sinem. Close friends, namely Linda, Tari, Michael Lesly, Mutsa, were also recognised for making iROCK possible. Last but not least, the show’s grand finale came in the form
Designer Ayo Van Elmer, Photos Subysinem.
30 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Events//
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 31
Events//
Jewish World Jamboree by Ann Smith With the spectre of sectarian conflict a constant nightmare in our lives it is rare to see images of inter-faith cooperation. That is though exactly what was on display this summer at London's charming Jewish Museum. An artistic jewel dedicated to London's historic Jewish community, tucked away in the city's famous music hub, Camden Town. World Jamboree, the brain child of its producer, Beverly Andrews, was an inter-faith music and food celebration in support of Health Poverty Action. Co-ordinated by both Miss Andrews and Izzi Joseph the evening featured some of the city's most innovative world music stars. Beverly speaks to C-Hub about the inspiration for this charming event. “There use to be a Jewish-Arab solidarity organization called Hafla. Founded by members from both the Jewish and Arab communities, Hafla hosted a
Beverley Andrew
series of cultural events to highlight Jewish and Arab cooperation and the two communities strong historic ties, ties which are so often forgotten in light of Middle Eastern politics. One of the biggest events organized by Hafla was a food and music event called “Cooking From the Heart”. Staged at the Jewish Museum and I think inspired by the theatrical production called “The Arab/Jewish Cookbook”, it was just one of those magical events. I felt it was so special and of course the message behind it that it inspired me to try to arrange something similar, but an event which would perhaps have a broader reach and include other faiths. Last autumn I met two faith fellows of Health Poverty Action, Catherine Mansoor and Harsha Sharma, who had recently help organize a charity recording called Tunes4Change which featured several world music artists who are very active in the inter-faith community. Many of the bands who took part in that recording also made up our final line up alongside artists I already had connections with. I'm a Buddhist so some of the acts such as Toni Green, Sebastian Blake and Lyra Veroli are fellow Buddhists members but others such as Momentum are simply friends whose work I greatly admire.” Beverly goes on to state. “ It was also very important for me to have different faith Eliot
leaders present also who could perhaps speak about the importance of inter-faith cooperation. Sometimes when you see the news you can feel this overwhelming sense of the powerlessness but I think its important to not give in to despair but to always see hope in even the bleakest situations and to try if you can to plant a seed somewhere. You never know what that seed might one day become. In Buddhism they always say great things can come from small beginnings.” One of the most moving moments of the evening was when Rabbi Levy and Iman Muhammad Al-Hussaini took to the stage to jointly speak about the importance of inter-faith cooperation. “It was so strange since I found them Ba-Hai Choir
32 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Events//
both completely at random that it turns out, they are very good friends. They spent much of the evening just sitting and chatting to each other. When you see something like that, it gives you hope for the future”. Youth division Buddhist leader Kiyo Inoue was also present and briefly spoke about how dialogue forms one of the key planks of Buddhist practice. Beverly comments “if you cannot start with dialogue then ultimately I feel you are doomed. What is key in any situation is the ability to at least see both perspectives and this can only be done through dialogue.” All the music performances at World Jamboree were outstanding, from the lovely BaH'ai quartet, to Turkish Folk singer I cenk Cinar, to the wonderful jazz vocalist Toni Green, accompanied by Yosi Marshall, together they transported the crowd from the wilds of Camden Town to London's legendary jazz hangout, Ronnie Scotts. Marshall then returned to the stage to lead his world jazz fusion group Momentum. The knock out performances of the evening though belonged to two performers, Eliot Ducat who astonished the audience with a religiously infused blues/hiphop Sebastian Blake
set and then possibly the evening's outstanding find. The Italian soul singer Lyra Veroli, both her startling range and her accomplished song-writing skills were well showcased, particularly by her rendition of her original piece titled Circles, a song composed for a play of the same name. The play was written by the show's producer, Beverly Andrews and is a site specific work which looks at four stories loosely connected to HIV/AIDS. Her performance of Circles showed all the elements of a emerging star, in fact watching her you wondered why she was there already. The beauty of the music was matched in turn by the quality and originality of the food provided for the evening by chefs from around the world including Japan, Columbia and Angola. Organic suppliers Whole Foods also provided food for the event alongside the Kilburn based Polish deli Belevadere Traditional. Heatlh Poverty Action director Martin spoke quite eloquently about the importance of the event and the work Health Poverty Action continues to do throughout the world. “The fantastic amount raised at World Jamboree will help Health Poverty Action support some of the poorest
Feraz
communities in the world. In Sierra Leone, where more women die as a result of being pregnant than anywhere else in the world, this has reduced maternal deaths by 72% in a hospital in the remote Bombali District. Similarly in Burma, where indigenous communities have experienced extreme poverty and civil war for 50 years, this work is dramatically improving maternal and child health services and has already reduced maternal deaths in the remote Wa region by 61%.” There was talk during the evening of trying to stage this ground breaking event again next year. I can only hope that the organizers manage to do so since it was a truly inspiring evening. An evening that gives you hope that perhaps there is more right in the world than we realize.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 33
Events//
The NEL Awards Left to right: 1. Sam Onigbanjo, May7ven and friends. 2. Obi Emeleonye and a friend pose with C. Hub magazine. 3. Caroline Marsh and friend. 4. Award recipients 5. Wise Tola and friend.
1
3
34 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
2
Events//
4
5
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 35
Events//
C. Hub was there when Sir Trevor McDonald receives BEFFTA lifetime achievement award The night was electric, a night to remember, a night of honour and recognition of our Black men and women who have struggled between the storm and the rain to achieve remarkably in the creative and entertainment industry. Undoubtedly, a BEFFTA award is now Europe’s biggest Black awards ceremony. Packed with more than 3000 enthusiastic audience screaming and cheering at Hippodrome Hotel at North London, Sir Trevor McDonald received a standing ovation as he humbly walks to the podium to accept a merited award of a lifetime achievement. An award in recognition to his services and contributions to the British media.
Sir Trevor is known to be the first Black British broadcaster and notably the most awarded British broadcaster of all time. His career as a journalist has spanned for as long as since 1960s. He became one of the most recognisable faces on British television being the only face of ITV’s News at 10. Sir Trevor also was the presenter for various other iconic shows including flagship current affairs show, tonight at 10, ITV’s travel documentaries and many more. The Trinidadian born British is also a renowned author of most celebrity biographies here in Britain and abroad including the biographies of the cricketers Viv Richards and Clive Lloyds among others. He is ranked among the first 100 notable Black British and has also been recognised by the Queen with an OBE. Sir Trevor is a living legend.
36 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Events//
Photos: Chinedu Okpara
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 37
Features.
Make Every Woman Count: The exclusive interview Founded in December 2010 two months after the launch of the African Women's Decade, Make Every Woman Count (MEWC) is a young African women-led organisation that promotes and advocates for the empowerment and rights of African women and girls. MEWC provide timely and accurate information, resources and tools to support and strengthen the work of African women’s rights advocates, African women's grassroots, organisations and activists. Through its campaings and publications, MEWC monitors and raises awareness of the African Women’s Decade 2010-2020 launched in October 2010 by the African Union. MEWC is both a platform for African women & girls, a space for shared ideas, and a voice for those who have largely gone unheard. Unlike many organisations working towards women’s rights, we seek to strengthen the voices of African women and girls so that they can take the lead on Africa’s social, political and economic development. MEWC main focuses are: Human Rights of Women, Women, Peace & Security, Violence Against Women, Political Participation & Leadership, Economic Empowerment, HIV/AIDS & Reproductives Health, Education.
Could you let us into your journey
thereby contribute to this landmark event.
with MEWC?
I would like MEWC to play a leading role
When the African Union announced that
I realized that although there were articles
in ensuring that African women and girls
2010-2020 would be the African Women’s
archiving the launch of the AWD in
are fully empowered to participate in the
Decade (AWD), I knew what I had to do.
October 2010, there were very few
economic, political and social development
From the beginning of my career I wanted
articles and documentation about the
of their country and to influence decisions
to do something that could have a positive
decade thereafter. I asked myself why this
that affect their lives. Through MEWC, I
impact on African women’s and girls’ lives,
is important event, an event worthy of an
would like to see a world where African
but did not have a specific idea on how to
entire decade, was not being adequately
women and men, girls and boys have
implement it. The creation of the African
documented or publicized. Surely, the
equal rights and opportunities and equal
Women’s Decade prompted me to take
brave African women to whom this
access to resources, education, healthcare,
control of my passion and career and
decade was devoted to deserved to be
employment, leadership and decision-
not only documented, but also publicized.
making.
Recognizing the gap in documentation, I
What do you aim to achieve?
started Make Every Women Count
My aim is through MEWC to provide a
(MEWC) to promote the empowerment
spectrum of platforms and tools for
and rights of African women and girls and
African women, grassroots, activists,
to raise the awareness of the African
international organizations and women’s
women's Decade by providing accessible,
rights groups. I feel that what has been
timely and accurate information, resources
missing from the African women’s
and tools to support and strengthen the
movement is a space, a voice that comes
work of African women's rights advocates,
directly from African women. Most
grassroots, and activists ; so that they can
organizations focused on empowering and
fully participate equally with men in the
gaining the equal rights of women often
economic, political and social life of the
neglects the voices of African women
continent.
themselves. I see a bright future in young African women who are more and more
What are your visions for MEWC?
showing themselves to be leaders in their
I have so many (laughs)…
own equal rights movements and through
38 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Features. MEWC I hope to help them to find
real voice in all governance institutions,
challenges facing African women and girls.
strength in their voices while raising
from the judiciary to the civil service, as
Thirty years after the adoption of CEDAW
awareness of their issues and their work on
well as in the private sector and civil
(United Nations Committee on the
the international stage.
society, so they can participate equally with
Elimination of Discrimination against
men in public dialogue and decision-making
Women), many women and girls still do
While some African countries have made
and influence the decisions that will
not have equal opportunities to realise
significant strides in expanding opportunity
determine the future of their families and
rights recognised by law. In most countries,
for women and girls, continued inequalities
countries.
women are denied the right to own
remain, particularly in the areas of women's
property or inherit land.
political participation and economic
However, we believe that for African
opportunity. Growing bodies of evidence
women to have a real voice in decision-
They face social exclusion, ‘honour killings’,
show that women's political and economic
making, they need to have the necessary
FGM (female genital mutilation), trafficking,
empowerment are critical to fostering
tools and for this reason, MEWC provides
restricted mobility and early marriage,
international peace and security, growing
timely and accurate information, resources
among others. Violence and discrimination
vibrant market economies, and supporting
and tools to support and strengthen the
against women are social epidemics and
open and accountable governance.
work of African women’s rights .
despite the progress made by women’s
According to the World Economic Forum,
rights movements in identifying, raising
“countries where men and women are
Throughout the 10 years of the African
awareness, and challenging impunity for
closer to enjoying equal rights are far more
Women’s Decade, we will publish each year
women’s rights violations, serious
economically competitive than those where
a report which summarises the progress
discrimination continues to target women
the gender gap has left women and girls
made by African countries regarding
in Africa. In conflict-ridden areas like the
with limited or no access to medical care,
women's rights and gender equality on the
Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Ivory
education, elected office, and the
continent during the African Women's
Coast, and Darfur region in Sudan, women
marketplace.”
Decade. We also monitor Women’s political
are raped as a weapon of war with no
participation in Election across Africa. By
impunity.
African women are tired of rhetoric and
monitoring elections taking place in around
want actions. They want human security,
Africa, MEWC hopes to contribute to
Cultural marginalisation severely limits
which means food, housing, healthcare,
improving women’s access to information,
women’s education opportunities, which
education, employment and a dignified
encourage communication and highlight the
results in high illiteracy levels and a lack of
existence.
prevailing obstacles that prevent parity and
qualifications and skills. These factors block
gender equity within the context of
women’s participation in politics, decision
leadership and political representation.
making and leadership positions. It is often
I believe that the participation and inclusion of African Women and girls are vital to the
notable that traditional and religious
continent growth and development. African
Through our website, MEWC give a voice
practices relegate women to traditional
governments can simply no longer afford to
to African women and girls by creating a
household’s roles.
deny the full potential of one half of the
platform for women's organisations,
population. Women and girls need to be
women activists and leaders to exchange
However, in the past years, there has been
empowered and the full power of their
ideas and experiences, and to advocate for
some encouraging progress regarding
development skills unleashed to participate
the greater inclusion of women in key
gender equality in Africa. Some states have
in the development economic, political and
development policy.
made considerable advancements in
social of the continent.
protecting women from sexual violence At MEWC, we believe that gender equality
and encouraging women to participate in
How is MEWC empowering the
is not only a basic human right, but its
politics and election. Most have gender
African girl/woman?
achievement has enormous benefits for
policies or some kind of national women’s
MEWC is working towards realizing a
socio-economic development.
mechanism, such as a Ministry of Gender or
world where African women and girls
Ministry of Women’s Affairs. There are
achieve their full potentials, realize their
How desperate is the situation for
aspects of gender equality in many
aspirations and have an equal voice in
the African girl/woman.
constitutions and some countries have
creating strong and peaceful communities.
I don’t think if desperate is the right word
passed other laws on different aspects of
We work to ensure that women have a
to say but I know there are many
women’s rights.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 39
Features.
There has been some recent progress
annually on progress towards gender
government representation actually reflect a
regarding women’s political in the recent
equality.This was the first time a continental
substantial change in the lives of ordinary
years. Women’s representation in
organization took ownership of gender
women, which is still far from a reality.
parliaments in Sub-Saharan Africa is now
mainstreaming at the highest level, prioritizing
higher than in South Asia, the Arab states
issues such HIV/Aids and the recruitment of
How far has MEWC dealt with the
or Eastern Europe.
child soldiers.
struggles? As a young woman led organisation, we
Tell me about the solemn
According to the Evaluation of the Solemn
have many struggles to deal with. The main
declaration on gender equality in
Declaration on Gender Equality in 2010,
one is getting funding to sustain our work.
Africa. How far is this declaration
report findings from 18 African countries out
been observed?
of the 53, indicate that only 34 per cent of
MEWC is mostly run by a team of
During the Third Ordinary Session of the
the member states have honoured the
volunteers who are using their skills,
African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of
commitment of subsequent reporting on
knowledge to fulfil MEWC’s mission.
State and Government in Addis Ababa,
progress made in implementing the Solemn
However, the journey is full of challenges
Ethiopia in July 2004, the Heads of State and
Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa
and we try our best every day to
Government adopted the Solemn
(SDGEA) as required under article12.
overcome these barriers. I like to believe
Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa (SDGEA).
that there is always a light at the end of the Despite the progress that has been made
tunnel……
on the African continent in terms of The Declaration is an important African
legislation, the reality in implementation
Instead of investing in young people ideas,
instrument for promoting gender equality
remains a huge disappointment, and all
most funders would rather give the money
and women's empowerment as it
actors, both state and non-state actors are
to big organisations to do the work. Young
strengthens African ownership of the gender
obliged in ensuring that women’s rights
women and men have difficulties getting
equality agenda and keeps the issues alive at
matter and that laws passed actually have
their own voice heard because they are
the highest political level in Africa.Through
an impact on the lives of the people.
young and are expected to keep quiet and
the Solemn Declaration, Heads of State and
We need to ensure that gains made in
"wait for their time". Our governments
Government commit themselves to report
women’s political mobilisation, advocacy, and
must work to expand the horizons of
40 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Features. opportunity for young women and men
rights group "Let's Save Togo" urged
and answer their legitimate demands for
women in Togo to stage a week-long sex
dignity and decent work.
strike to demand the resignation of the country's president. The sex strike was
We live in a changing and volatile world.
announced at a rally of several thousand in
Only by working together in common
the capital city, Lome. The demonstration
cause can we meet our challenges. Young
was organized by a coalition that is
people are willing and able to take
protesting recent electoral reforms which
ownership of their own future and the
they say will make it easier for Gnassingbe
common ideals we cherish. Unless the
to win re-election in the polls set for
world invests in its young people, there
October.
cannot be hope for sustainable development.
The Togolese women group cites as its
African women head of state and the chair
inspiration a strike organized in 2003 by a
of the African Union is a woman. In
There are still numerous claims and
women’s peace group to encourage the
Senegal, this year, two women stood in the
reports of rapes, abuses and
end of the Second Liberian Civil War.
presidential election which was the first in
exploitation on the African
the country.
girl/woman. Do you think the UN is
This is not the first time women use sex
doing enough to address these issues?
strike to achieve political goals.The most
Until recently, it had been the face of
Well, I don’t think we should rely on the
famous example of a sex strike goes as far
the African woman crying and
UN to address the issues of violence
back as ancient Greece. In the play
victimized that we see in the news,
against women and so on… It is
"Lysistrata," the women of Athens decide to
television... However, I am glad to say
important to remember, that ultimately
stop having sex with their husbands until
that is fast fading and many faces of
the protection of citizens is up to the
they put an end to the Peloponnesian War.
African women are appearing in many
Government of each country and UN cannot act on behalf of a country.
places in the world with smiles and a Does the sex strike works? I think it
spirit of fierce fighting, determination
depends on many factors. According to
and success.
Governments and Members of Parliament
Pepper Schwartz, professor of sociology at
have a responsibility to ensure that the
the University of Washington, USA, "If
Political commitment is key to ensuring
necessary legislation and norms are in place,
you're talking about a few days where
women enjoy their rights. Governments
and to allocate the resources needed to
women make a point I think that works. If
need to back up their commitments
turn words into actions. It can also be about
you're talking about turning a whole
with actions. For example; outlawing
having a zero tolerance policy of sexual
nation around because nobody's getting
female genital mutilation is not enough.
violence in place to end impunity.
any, I wouldn't put hard money on that,"
Women have to know their rights, and
"Because I don't think people stick to sex
take action to demand accountability.
I believe that we as the civil society, as well
strikes. Yes it's good to bring
Many are kept in ignorance due to lack
as individuals, should ask our politicians and
consciousness to your mate, but it's
of education and information on what
other decision makers what they are doing
probably hard to stick to. If you do stick
the constitutions of their countries say
to fight the scourge of sexual violence.
to it too long you might lose that other
and how the systems/ institutions/laws
person's willingness to support your issue
that are supposed to run their nations
African people themselves have a role to
so it's a tricky thing. I think it's a good
should work.
play in creating lasting peace and
headline, a lot harder to put into practice."
sustainable development in the continent;
By placing women at the centre of it all,
governments and the private sector have
How optimistic are you for the
African women and girls will have an
their own responsibilities.
African woman.
oppor tunity to flourish and become
I am very optimistic. Today, African women
advocates and leaders. Women’s
I heard about the Togolese women
are beginning to break the political glass
par ticipation is not only impor tant for
sex strike, what is that all about?
ceiling in many countries and finding their
economic growth and prosperity but to
How much it will achieve?
way in roles that was traditionally
ensure sustainable peace, stability and
In August 2012, the Women in the civil
occupied by men. We now have two
security.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 41
Features.
Franklin Boateng By Faustina Anyanwu 5000 members in one year, 1Million hits per month. One of Britain’s biggest social Media success stories. Imagine you have started your well built blog, website, released your latest album.You need to bring traffic and attention to your work in order to make sales. But you do not know how to go about it. No more worries help is at hand.Your only part is to sit back, relax and meet FRANKLIN BOATENG, one of Britain’s biggest names in social media and online branding. It is not magic then that the 33-year-old British born Ghanaian has made a big name for himself with the social media and Internet technology. His story has gone on to emphasise more on one of my many quotes “The Internet is at your service, use it or be used by it”. Yes obviously, Franklin has made the most of the Internet/social media age and he is not showing any sign of slowing down. He is now on a mission to give back by mentoring, teaching and helping thousands to get a grip on how to make the Internet and social media work for them. We were first struck by his digital creativity displayed on one of his
where everyone can contribute on the online magazine. In a space of
webblogs – Geppetto. There has been thousands if not millions of
one year, the site gained 5000 members and was receiving over
free downloads of these digital designs by people who don’t even
1million hits per month. And the entire stories and blog stream were
know Franklin. So we decided to go track down this digital design
fed straight to my twitter @fabsnetwork. Unfortunately, hackers
media wizard – Franklin Boateng.
attacked the website and it had to go down. Who really are you?
The success of fabsnetwork, led to companies and businesses to call
(In his ever-gentle sweetness, he
on me to teach them how to gain followers on their websites, blogs
smiles with a blush). I am
and social media accounts. At the moment, I get paid regularly to
Franklin aka Mr Fabsnetwork.
tweet and run commentary on live events. Hence, my new found
You can call me a social media
fame of twogger.
expert, a business mentor, twitter teacher or a twogger
Who have you been tweeting for?
(twitter blogger).
My clients include Sky TV channels, UK award and reality shows. I have also twogged for Ken Livingston during the 2012 Mayoral
How did you land yourself
campaign.
into these? I spent several years after
How do you teach others to succeed with social media?
university researching and
About 2years ago, I developed a twitter master class courses for
learning social media and how
business and individuals who wish to expand their brand hence -
it works for companies and
#Expandyourbrand.
businesses. In 2010, I built my own social networking site –
Tell me about #Expandyourbrand.
fabsnetwork.com. One of the
Smiles).The # is simply a hash tag associated with threading the subject
first open blog social networks
on twitter. Anyway, #Expandyourbrand is about teaching people social
42 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Features. media. It comes in two sections. Section one: Purely social media
What inspires you?
workshop of about 2hours dealing with social media networking;
My parents, especially my mum. She works so hard. Everyone
instagram, twitter, facebook , blogging. Section two, we talk about wealth
around me is an inspiration. Whenever I see Black people work hard
creation.Which is more of discussion, as it is, there isn’t any black
I get inspired.
person in the UK rich list at the moment.We have to do something about that.Teach people how to invest in gold and property.
What would you change in Africa? The economic structure. There’s a market divide in the world
What motivates you to do these?
system – the super rich vs the super poor due to greed. There is
I have always been self-motivated. Since I left University in
lack of sharing information on money making. The governments
2002/2003, I have been self-employed. I studied visual
need to come together to help each other grow. Africa is talented
communication design (Graphic Design) and have always known I
and rich with wealth, education and resources. We were used during
would work for myself.
colonisation then the slavery came. Yet till date, Africa is not appreciated. We need to come together to teach ourselves.
You must be a successful guy? I have companies after companies that are doing well. I had a delivery
Who is your all time Icon?
company that does everything and anything; removals, delivery and
Kwame Nkoumah; the Ghanaian minister who brought us
just anything moveable. I also had an installation company that does
independence. He fought the British to gain us independence.
installations of multi-gym equipment and their maintenance. So yes, I
Oprah also is an Icon.
have made some success but I won’t say I am there yet. I have invested in property as well, I have a few property. I was doing very
What would you tell Young Blacks?
well then, the recession struck. I was badly hit, was at the edge of
Young Black British need to learn., breakdown the fundamentals,
losing everything.
adapt to the system quickly, learn attitudes, work hard and provide for themselves.
How did you spring up again? I had to go unemployed for a while, for my insurance to pay for my
We can’t go on and on having babies. We need to begin to set good
mortgages. It was at this time that I began on the fabsnetwork
examples. It’s not just acquiring material things. A level of smartness
project.Then the proposals to tweet for companies began to pour in.
with dressing must be emphasised. We need to conduct ourselves
I also design a Mauritius newspaper every month called Mauritius
properly, learn professionalism. Use of slang can wait outside of
Now and I also design UK Men’s magazine Candy Magazine UK.
business and professional environment.
Your insurance helped you secure your mortgages? Yes, I was at breaking point if not for my insurance. All people need to have insurance for their dealings: life, business, and health, in fact in almost everything. It is necessary and essential at the long run. Tell me more about Geppetto website. Geppetto is just a concept. I use the site to express and send out positive messages. It is all about using design and art to convey positively.There has been a lot of re blogging and likes from tumblr and people using them as their avatar. So it has been rewarding in its measure as well. Hopefully, I will be selling the messages on print soon. Are you married? No. How are you doing with girls? I am focused a lot on business. I haven’t got any girlfriend yet… Yeah, lots of girls do contact me but for me am focused on my business now.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 43
Creative Lounge.
Finding Inspiration in the most simple things with Nnenna Okore By Faustina Anyanwu She may not have been in your face but she has made her mark in the global arts. Her love for nature and her eagerness to preserve the originality of her environment has been the singular motive of Nnenna Okore. Born and raised in Nsukka Nigeria, Nnenna uses her observational skills and familiar materials to create sterling works of art that has landed her the honour to be among the foremost artists of this generation. As an artist, how is your typical day
What message would you like to
schedule?
send out through your works?
Typically, my daily routine starts with an early
My works deal with environmental issues
morning exercise, before I leave for the
relating to preservation, recycling, re-
University where I teach and head the
purposing and transformation of natural
department. About twice every week, I
and found object within our living spaces.
How do you finance your continuity?
spend four to six hours in my art studio
Beyond these concepts, my works strive
With regards to financing my projects -
producing and creating works. And on any
to stimulate the viewers’ aesthetic
some are self-funded while grants, awards
given day, I am home by the evening time to
perception of space, form and materials in
or fellowships support others. At times,
spend quality time with my young family.
ways that enrich their visual experience
when I am unable to finance a big project, I look to my surrounding to find low cost
Where do you find inspiration?
Do you panic on exhibitions?
materials or low-tech means for creating
I find inspiration in very simple things within
I never panic over an exhibition. What I
and completing my projects.
the surrounding natural and architectural
experience sometimes is a bit of stress
environments.The Nigerian cultural setting
from all the preparations involved, but not
How do you compare your work now
and lifestyle also give me an abundance of
panic.
and years back?
inspiration for my creative work.
Every year, my works have improved and Can you tell of any project that you
become more ambitious. As a much younger
Why did you become an artist?
felt most accomplished?
artist, I was less daring and experimental in
I became an artist because art making is
Not really, because I feel that my
my art making approach. But today, having
what I do best. From my childhood years,
accomplishments always lead to a better
gained a level of confidence and some
my artistic talent stood out and I excelled
opportunity or bigger achievements down
financial security, I am open to employing
creatively at every level.
the road.
different processes, techniques and mediums
44 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Creative Lounge. without much hesitation. And unlike
and creating new works of art
those of my earlier career, much of my
inspired by the local environment.
recent works have also become heavily focused on environmental and
I notice you like to use your
spatial issues.
mother tongue to describe some of your work.
Have you ever experienced
Yes, many of my works are titled in
artist block, and when it happens
Igbo and other Nigerian vernacular. I
how do you come over it?
sometimes use such Igbo title to best
These days I don’t experience mental
describe or depict the essence and
blocks very much. On the contrary, I
meaning of the work, in ways that the
have too many ideas, which often
English language may not.
make it difficult to decide on which course to follow. When I did have
How long have you been an
blocks in the past, I resorted to
artist?
reading about and looking at works
For as long as I can recall, I have been
by other artists who inspired me.
artistically inclined.
How does it feel to know your
Do you enjoy it?
works are appreciated?
Yes, it’s my life and I thoroughly enjoy
When people of different ages and
being an artist.
backgrounds from around the globe value and appreciate my works, it’s
What materials do you use,
definitely provides a gratifying and
why and how do you source
rewarding feeling. And I don’t ever
them?
take that for granted, because it
Most times, I use natural or manmade
means that my works have a universal
materials including sticks, paper, ropes
appeal.
dye, clay and burlap found within my working environment. In fact, there are
What’s the biggest
no limits to what I have used or can
reward/recognition you’ve ever
use. My choice of materials depends
received and for which project?
largely on the concept, texture or
The Fulbright Scholar Award is one
forms I desire for a given piece.
that readily comes to mind. It’s one of the most prestigious grants awarded
What is next for you?
globally to scholars and individuals to
My immediate plans are to complete
enable them accomplish grand
my yearlong Fulbright project in
projects in different parts of the
Nigeria, and exhibit works produced
world. For my Fulbright project, I will
during that period both locally and
be spending a year in Nigeria teaching
internationally.
Nnenna Okore is an Associate Professor and former chair of the Art Department at North Park University, Chicago, where she teaches Sculpture. She earned her B.A degree in Painting from the University of Nigeria (First Class Honors) in 1999, and an M.A and M.F.A. in Sculpture from the University of Iowa in 2004 and 2005. She has received several national and international awards and been shown in numerous prestigious galleries and museums within and outside the United States. As a recipient of the 2012/13 Fulbright Scholar Award, she will be spending a year in Nigeria teaching and creating new artworks. Education M.F.A ___Sculpture, University of Iowa. 2005 M.A _____Sculpture, University of Iowa. 2004 B.A _____Painting, University of Nigeria (First Class Honors). 1999 Professional Experience Associate Professor, North Park University, Chicago, USA. 2011-present Department Chair, North Park University, Chicago, USA. 2009 Assistant Professor, North Park University, Chicago, USA. 2005-2011 Teaching Assistant, Instructor of Record, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA. 2002-2005 Studio Artist, Purple Art Studio, Lagos, Nigeria. 2001-2002 Studio Assistant, El Anatsui-Africa Studio, Nsukka, Nigeria. 2000-2001 Studio and Gallery Assistant, Abuja Council for Arts and Culture, Abuja, Nigeria. 1997 Grants/Awards/Residencies Fulbright Scholar Award to Nigeria, USA. 2012 Artist-in-residence/Teaching Fellowship, Skidmore College, New York, USA. 2011 Artist Residency, Jean Paul Blachere Foundation, Apt, France. 2010 Artist-in-residence, Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, USA. 2010 North Park University Faculty Project Grant, USA. 2008 Residency at Instituto Rural de Arte Hoz del Jucar, Spain. 2007 Artist Full Fellowship at Global Art Village, Delhi, India. 2007 Residency at Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, USA. 2007 UNESCO-Aschberg Fellowship for Artists (Gruber Jez Foundation, Mexico). 2007 Red Gate Residency, Beijing, China. 2006 North Park University Research Award, USA. 2005 SFAI Residency, Santa Fe Art Institute, USA. 2005 Graduate Assistantship, University of Iowa, USA. 2005 Emma McAllister Novel Scholarship, University of Iowa, USA. 2004 Teaching Assistantship, University of Iowa, USA. 2002-2005 Valedictorian (Fine Arts), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria. 1999 First prize, UNIFEM Women’s Art Contest, Lagos, Nigeria. 1994 First prize, UNICEF African Child’s Day Art Contest, Mbabane, Swaziland. 1993
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 45
Creative Lounge.
C. Hub speaks with the woman that brings the tribal greeting cards that speaks your mind By Cynthia Joans Josie Fadlin a mother of 3 whom prior to starting up her own business worked within the criminal justice system. She is a qualified probation officer who has worked in many different roles within the Criminal Justice field. “It is an area of work I am passionate about and will continue to be active in this field alongside running my own company” Ma Nubiah. A company specializing in multicultural and ethnic greeting cards, wedding invitations and other gift ideas. What made you start on this concept? I live in London and Britain is a multicultural society, however I struggled to find greeting cards that were reflective of not only my African Caribbean culture, but also that of my other family and friends. I am very proud of my rich cultural heritage and I was almost certain that there were others like me who were also dissatisfied with what was on offer. I did some market research, and discovered that there was a niche for multicultural cards. I always had a vision of the kind of cards I’d like to see on the market and finally plucked up the courage to start up my own business. What do you intend to convey? With Ma Nubiah cards you can expect to see aspects of the diverse cultures that make up multicultural Britain. It is hoped that the person purchasing the card will see something that is reflective of the intended recipient either in the image or spirit of the card. Why is it necessary to make ethnic greeting cards? Well there are over 9.1 million people of ethnic minority origin in the UK, in addition the population of people of mixed heritage has doubled from 2001 – 2009 to over 1 million. In London over 31% of the population are from an ethnic minority origin. I think that’s a lot of people who struggle to find greeting cards which are reflective of their culture or ethnic origin or that of their family members and friends. How has it been introducing the multi-ethnic greeting cards? Ma Nubiah is very much in its infancy as I only decided to form the company in April this year! However the response and encouragement we have received is
fantastic! We were invited to exhibit our cards at the African Bridal show this year, and the interest in our brand continues to grow.I have been pleasantly surprised and encouraged by the response our cards have received par ticularly as we are so new to the market. I’m just grateful that others can see and share in our vision to get a more diverse range of cards on the market. What do you think might be the future challenge? The challenge for the future will be to keep producing ranges each season that captures the minds of our target market. I feel confident however that we will be able to meet that challenge, as my head is continually busting with ideas, and I have a great design team working with me.Despite being new to the market, we are continually receiving requests for our cards and I envisage as we increase our marketing and PR strategies, the sales will come flooding in! Why the name, does it have African connotation? I chose the name Ma Nubiah for the company, because I wanted the company to have a strong sense of my African Caribbean heritage. How prepared are you for the Christmas season? This is Ma Nubiah’s first Christmas collection and we are aiming to produce a dynamic range of cards that are very different from what we have normally come to expect on the market. The range includes, The African queen range, the Afro Chic range, The Gele Queens and sisters with Locks. We even hope to launch a Nefer titi range, if we can get it done before Christmas!
46 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
What’s next for Ma Nubiah? Good question. Our vision is to become one of the leading producers of multicultural and ethnic greeting cards in the UK and beyond. We are already getting interests for our cards in the US and future projects will be aiming to make inroads in Africa and the Caribbean. The multi ethnic cards are available on: www.manubiah.co.uk
Study in UK (Licensed by UK Border Agency as Highly Trusted Sponsor) Courses Available: Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Graduate Diploma & Postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies Minimum Qualification Required to start a course: O Levels/WAEC/SSCE Minimum English Language Proficiency: IELTS 4.0 Bands (or equivalent) Fees: ÂŁ2,800 or ÂŁ3,000 per annum (depending on course level) Admissions open for January 2013 & March 2013 Sessions Please visit our website at www.londonsba.co.uk or email your queries to info@londonsba.co.uk for more information. You may also call on 00442084454874.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 47
C. Hub Review.
Book Reviews. By Vivian Frankie
Material Girl Keisha Ervin Dylan has it all, the latest designer shoes, handbags, specs, money you name it. She mingles where the celebrities in town mingle. She is the type of girl that guys wish could be on their bedroll. And of course she has sampled most and it means nothing to her. Breaking or not breaking those hearts mean absolutely nothing to Dylan. She is hot. Just when she thought she was on top of her game, she meets State again. This one guy who will grab her soul, mess with it and toss it in the mud yet again and again Dylan some how falls for his lies. They’ve had it all sex, drugs, party, shopping spree, big time, heartbreak, anything you can think of. But what Dylan never expected was aborting her own baby even for State, but she had to, worst still finding out the State was married after all. Anyway she finds out and the only guy who has ever treated her with some respect – Angel was there to scoop her off the ground to patch and paint her broken heart back to normal. But Dylan is not a girl to be treated with respect. She goes back to play hid and seek with State at the expense of Angel. Angel has done his best, but when he finds out what she has been up to, would he leave or stay? What about Dylan’s friends who have warned her severally about State, would they take her back or forgive her stupidity? Filled with so much to find out, Keisha Ervin has brutally laid it all bare. It is raw, sexual, sensual, erotic, fearless, vulgar, blunt, provoking, untamed and this is it the book to take you right back to the street. Making ‘material girl one of the most realistic fictional novels I have read. It is ‘sinful’ and for the matured minds only!
Teenagers Explained (A manual for parents by teenagers) - Megan Lovegrove and Louise Bedwell This is one book I could not ignore. As a parent I don’t need my girls to become teenagers before I can get myself equipped and ready for the task ahead. This is a brutally honest and insightful practical guide for every parent with or without teenagers. For the mere fact that it is written by teenagers makes it more valuable, current, first hands, in-depth, and practically guides you through the dilemmas that teenagers have to go through each day growing up. We were once teenagers but time is moving so fast and things are changing with it. I recommend this for every adult and teenagers alike. There are so much to learn; the slang, the tantrums and the confusions. You will also get the step by step guide to developing an effective communication with your teen. A true guide on issues around sex, relationships, peer pressures, and the tricks that teenagers can pull and how to get around it. Do you love your teens, then this is the one book for the family this season.
Some wounds never heal - Rhonda M. Lawson The hurricane continues to gather momentum in New Orleans, but no matter how strong it plans to get, it can never equal the storm that will erupt as soon as Alexis and Andrea step into the same state. ‘Wounds never heal’ a story filled with so much drama and suspense. Alexis recklessness in the past have been enough to deal with. She going for whoever comes across her way to fill her insatiable lust has left her wounded too. Some how, she decides its time to move on but fate has a way of getting back to one. What goes around comes around. Sleeping with and dating other women’s husbands without remorse might just be enough to get her in the trap some day. Her husband does his best to help her stay focused and alive but 10 years later, Alexis is faced with her own demons. Coming face to face with Andrea could be the beginning of something more powerful than the hurricane. Then the sudden appearance of Nikki in the same Virginia beaches. How about her so caring husband what will become of him? Who will give the fight? Who will be the righteous one? Who will forgive? What will happen to the families and the love once shared? Rhoda knows exactly how to keep you on the edge as she grabs you fiercely on the neck making sure you do not step a foot until she is done with you. Some wounds never heal is tight. It is overflowing with revenge, lust, drama and much more to learn. This is the one to read…
48 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
C. Hub Review.
Music review: C. Hub Top 10 music at the moment. Review by Ayo Kila. 1. The UK Soca Road March Queen keeps
3. This is one young lady who seems to
7. Chris Brown is an artist that when he
her title for the second year running.
leave controversy wherever she goes. But
does right, he’s amazing and this is one of
Singer, songwriter and producer
one thing about Willow Smith is that
those times. Don’t Judge Me the latest
Chardanai took both first and second
girl can sing! Showing off her powerful
release from his new album feels like we’re
place in this years competition. Last year
lungs in ‘I Am Me’. This soulful song
hearing his soul. The video on the other
she dazzled the Soca scene with ‘Down
preaches self-loving and puts two fingers
hand I have no idea how it fits in with the
Deh’, a song that drove the crowds wild,
up at the people who can’t accept you for
song. It takes courage to stand up and
and this year ‘Calling For Jab’ which
who you are.
admit when you’ve done wrong let-alone
became the Mas band favourite on the Notting Hill route.
sing about it… 4. He became this year most wanted UK artist for all the carnival band launches,
8. This year the Jamaica celebrated its 50th
2. Jasmine Knight’s single Why is
Triniboi Jooice blew the crowd away, last
Independence and in honour of that Mr.
beautiful ballad and with her soulful voice
year at the first calo festival. He became
Vegas teamed up with Josey Wales and
makes an amazing track, for this up-coming
third UK Power Monarch with his song
Shaggy to produce the sweet reggae
singer from South London. The song
Beast Inside Me. The Song has all the
song ‘Sweet Jamaica’. This patriotic
describes betrayal and heartbreak that all
attributes of a worthy Soca song, a good
song is a picturesque homage to the Island
can relate too and the emotion that is
beat to dance to, energy and most
that gave us the fastest man on earth
attached to the lyrics is enough to make
importantly catchy lyrics.
Usain Bolt.
5. Ladies man Mr Trigger, Trey Songz is
9. Timaya has always made reggae songs
back with his new album, Simply
with an African twist but this new single
Amazing is the sing along track that’s
‘Bum Bum’ has a completely dance hall
been climbing the music charts. When it
feel to it. Of course its always going to be
many hearts melt.
comes to making love songs Trey Songz is the master of the game. Yes it’s on a slightly typical R’N’B beat but it’s an amazing chill out song.
mainstream but even the video proved really disappointing. Maybe it’s just me but I prefer Timaya when he hasn’t been autotuned and making Vybz Kartel styled videos.
6. D’Banj has always been one of top three Afrobeats artists and his
10. For some reason D’Banj has ended
hit single Oliver Twist is a great
up my list again but this time he’s featuring
example why. Since being realized
on the remix to Naeto C’s ‘Tony
earlier this year the song has been continuously played on radio, TV and in clubs. The song, which mentions Nicki Minaj’s big “Gnash” (bum),
Montana’. The song is perfect example of how HOT mixing Yourba and English on a track is. Even the beat adds to how cool this song is, it just gets you dancing.
has seen D’Banj nominated for a MOBO Award
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 49
C. Hub Review.
Movie reviews: I am Going to Make a Miracle: Documentary by Beverly Andrews Review by Ann Smith
In an era of global fiscal austerity the case
rushing pass him followed by a shot of the
actress wryly notes "we are now being told
for public subsidy of the arts can be a
site's interior which makes the share size of
that we can't afford to educate our kids in
difficult one to make. But that's exactly
the task apparent, you can't help but agree.
the arts , Somerset County Council have
what Beverly Andrews' charming
But what transpires in the course of the
just last week cut their entire arts budgets
documentary does in its portrait of a
next eighty minutes is not only the portrait
and we have eighteen millionaires in the
struggling theatre company, "I am Going to
of a struggling theatre company, who in the
current cabinet telling us that we are all in
Make a Miracle". The film is a heart
course of its ten year existence have
this together"
warming portrait of the work of one of
helped to transform the area around it, but
London's most acclaimed theatre's, the
the documentary is also a touching love
the lovely "Gandhi and Coconuts" by
Hackney based Arcola theatre and its
letter to theatre itself and its ability to
Bettina Gracias. The play is a moving and
irrepressible Turkish artistic director
transform peoples' lives.
surprisingly funny portrait of madness, as a
Mehmet Ergen. A man for whom the
Arcola's tiny studio's final production was
The film charts the final productions in
young Indian bride finds far more comfort
word no, you suspect is largely absent from
Arcola's old home. The piece on the main
in the fantasy world she constructs rather
his vocabulary. The film charts the theatre's
stage is a well directed revival of the
than her cold and unwelcoming new home.
struggle to survive in an era where the
legendary thirties agitprop musical called
Her conversations with the imaginary
very value of theatre is now being publicly
"The Cradle will Rock" written by Max
Ghandi are particularly hilarious where he
debated.
Blitzstein and originally directed by
suggest maybe the life of austerity he
American legend Orson Wells. Cradle
endured during his entire life is now one he
with shots of its new site, the site the
charts the corrupting influence of a media
after death he has come to largely regret.
company are planning to occupy in just
tycoon and his media empire (very eerie
over two months time. But with an
echoes here of modern day News Corp)
desperate attempt to bridge the gap
outstanding 140,000 pounds needed to
as he single handedly tries to destroy the
between what they have and what is need
make the new building habitable a
unions he feels are in his way and in his
to enable them to move they hold a
successful move appears to be, at least at
mind preventing his newspaper from
charity fund-raiser which sadly raises only a
this stage, very unlikely. Something Ergen
increasing its profits. Set during the Great
few thousand pounds. Leaving the almost
admits in the opening credits "to get this
Depression, the piece has some very
unbridgeable gap of 130,000 pounds left to
building ready in time it's going to take a
uncanny parallels with today. A point not
be found in less then a month's time. The
miracle". With bemused Russian builders
lost on the production's performers. One
company closes for the Christmas break
"I am Going to Make a Miracle" opens
50 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
The film charts how the Arcola in a final
C. Hub Review.
and the film follows Arcola's stressed
never heard this particular story before.
be commended for the superb job of
director to Istanbul, the location for its now
This moment highlights what
editing he has also done. Both the opening
defunct sister company. And thus begins
documentaries can do at their best, capture
and closing credits produced by Will Davys
the film's perhaps most riveting section.
these lovely unscripted moments which
are also a treat and last but not least the
The spectacular scenes in Istanbul are
can take viewers into the very heart of a
film's soundtrack composed and produced
story.
by Gwen Ferguson is absolutely beautiful,
breathtaking and the production which is filmed there although written in Greece
When Ergen and the film's crew return
particularly the music played in the Turkish
during the sixties could so easily be Syria
to London and despite the massive funding
section which you assume was composed
today or Libya before the downfall of
gap Arcola actually moves to its new home,
by a Turkish musician but was in fact
Gaddaffi. Has a brother and sister hid in an
largely funded by some staff members re-
composed and produced by an African
antic and watch the executions that take
mortgaging their homes, you can't help but
American woman who had never even
place in the square below after a military
cheer. And the quality of the work they
travelled to the country.
junta have taken power and struggle to
subsequently produce there appears to
maintain control. The play highlights
move up a notch with the critically
closing the doors of his theatre's new
Greece's struggle to achieve its fragile
acclaimed The Painter, starring Toby Jones
home with a rather large open side
democracy and it is particularly chilling to
and Niamh Cusack absolutely stunning
attached to its exterior will have viewers
note that in the light of current economic
followed closely by the Turkish language
smiling. And you are not surprised when
events in that country today that this hard
Can Asyie Be Saved which opens the
you read in the following shot that Ergen
fought victory may now once again be in
building's smaller studio space.
has managed to secure, despite the rather
peril. The loveliest moment though in this
Watching "I am Going to Make a Miracle"
The closing shot of a beaming Ergen
large cuts being made by the Arts Council
it's hard to believe that the film was
to theatre funding, a massive 82 percent
entire section is the brief interview
entirely unfunded and shot for a mere five
increase in the company's funding. Since
between Ergen and his brother, the
hundred pounds since the technical
Ergen's shear presence alone in this
theatre's general manager. The inter-play
standard throughout is quite superb. Credit
charming film makes you understand why
between the two siblings is lovely to watch
should be given to the entire production
theatre means so much to so many people
and when Ergen's brother recounts a
crew and particularly its two main
and after watching this beautiful little film
childhood memory and Ergen blushes and
cameramen Andrew Berekdar and Paul
you come away feeling that it now matters
simply turns to the camera and says he had
Trenholme, Trenholme in particular should
to you too.
Pariah Pariah is a tale of a young African
character's uneasiness with homosexuality
she starts falling in love The beauty of this
American woman who struggles with
is believable from the start of the movie.
film is that it captures both stories of first
growing-up and coming-out issues. Alike is
Alike’s constant fear of rejection and slightly
love and coming out. It follows Alike’s
a young woman torn between being the
awkward attempts at being "the guy" is
journey as a schoolgirl, a daughter and a
tomboy who enjoys playing basketball with
remarkable to watch. The emotion in the
conflicted young women on a path to
her dad and her Bible bashing mother who
film is both believable and mature as we
discover if is-she-or-isn't-she a lesbian.
is constantly buying her girlie dresses. The
watch Alike’s conflicting emotions when
Better Mus' Come This urban love story is set in 1970's
of the slums. Throughout the film we are
from their history and make a change
Jamaica, "Better Mus Come" tells the story
able to see how these men have became
before another massacre occurs. The
of Ricky, a young man living in the ghettos
such hardened criminal. Better Mus Come
intense violence throughout the film is
of Kingston who is trying to escape from all
is a touching film with a brilliant story line.
overwhelming and sometimes brutal, but is
the inner city fighting. The movie also shows
Not only does it outlines the issues of
a powerful representation of the period
The Green Bay Massacre that happened in
Jamaica in the '70s, but also mirrors what’s
that the movie is based on.
Jamaica, which makes the audiences start to
happening in present-day Jamaica. It shows
sympathize with the murderous gangsters
that the present generations need to learn
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 51
C. Hub Review.
Poetry Corner. The morning breeze By Faustina Anyanwu. Stretch out your hands Feel the morning breeze Let its gentle blow, Caress your mind. Fill your heart with joy For once let the world be.
Open up your soul. Lay bare your mind. Let the cool air blow away this emptiness. Fill the gaps with peace For once let the world be. Widen your ears. Listen to the sound . Of the early morn breeze Fill your heart with the rhythm and softness of it's vibe For once let the world be. Lay bare your mind. And drift off to sleep Let the world for once be. Let the cool gentle breeze Take you back to sleep For once let the world be.
It’s winter again By Faustina Anyanwu. The leaves are gone. The trees are bare. The house is cold and damp. The streets are filt and messed The dog walker lets them foul, Here and there. It's winter again.
The cold is back. The coats are out. The days are dark. The nights are long and chilled. The bus is stuffed and filled Windows tightly locked. It's winter again. The cold is freezing. They all walk like duckling Wrapped in just the same colours Black, brown and grey. And no smiles on their faces. No smiles on their faces. It's winter again. Read more and become Faustina’s fan on fanstory.com/fauntee.
To see your poem here, submit an original word document to info@fauntee.com, with your full names and contact details. (we reserve the right to or not to publish any submissions).
52 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
C. Hub Review.
My London Lover
Touch of Romance
By Okpara Okechukwu Dominique.
By Okpara Okechukwu Dominique.
Naked blue sky on its jealous court Viewing a lovely lady and her tiger-walks. Making me romantic with her pretty smiles Smiling at my admiring stare. She's looking at me At the very spot I'm looking on her.
Her voice greets the apartment, Her greetings in morning's cloak, Gently knocking on the sleepy door.
She's in London, miles away from my unhappy seat If we're gods we'd have punished the distance. She made a wish that whispered to me And gave birth to an ever-living echo in my heart. I took up a blue pen and posted the moment "I love you" was the letter. I'll go to London one wonderful day with a gold ring and diamond necklace To gum myself to you. Yes, in a cream linen suit and a milk-coloured tie To tie myself to you. If this be the first and last mistake of my love affair I'd be committing it on you.
The Raging War By Emeka Anyanwu. Out of millions of planets I have travelled, Non seemed like the earth They all are peaceful and calm. Only the earth does the raging war!
Overslept he heard, Suspending the damaged unfinishing dreams, He leapt and crept. Her knocking changed to tapping as if she knew he's coming, He noticed moving with extreme caution, Several inches away stopped the tapping. Eagerly he dashed opening the door, Just as she's about to leave, "Hey hi" and "Oh hello" exchanged. She'd moved in yesterday, He'd returned very late, It takes two to make a neighbour. If only you were there, You'd have felt the force of such intense passionate field, Of an apparent loss of wanted speech. He's a writer, She's a model, Both freelancers. How do you do, Nice to meet you, A handshake which electricity followed. You knocked on my... I was just wondering if you... Two uncompleted experimental statements. Laws of attraction crystal defined, Purely greatly demonstrated, By this unsuspecting couple. Their body charging their sphere, Every instant preciously felt, That beautiful touch required. Nothing matters now, As long as those eyes contact alone, With that magical glue between. Both silent with longing, Both filled with longing, A longing for that touch. You can read more of Dominique’s works on: http://www.geocities.ws/sir_dominique/
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 53
Travel Suite.
On a safari to Kenya
Discover the African beauty and its treasures. 5 important things you must know about Jamhuri ya Kenya (Republic of Kenya). 1. Mount Kenya is the second highest peaked mountain in Africa and the third in the world. The country is named after this mountain. 2. Kenya has about 43million residents. 3. Nairobi is the capital and largest city in Kenya. 4. The world’s second largest fresh water lake is Kenyan Lake Victoria, also Kenya has the world’s largest tropical Lake. 5. Kenya has the largest economy within the East and central Africa
“Harambee Kenya!!!” (Let us all pull together Kenya!!!).
54 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Travel Suite.
Welcome Home: Kenya, your Haven. by Isaac Muchiri Welcome to Kenya. Home of the seventh
the depths of the great Arabuko Sokoke
world’s largest collection of human pre-
world wonder - The Maasai Mara
forest. To this day, despite extensive
history, the longest and most complete
Great Wildebeest Migration from
research and exploration, nobody is really
record spanning over 27 Million years. You
the Serengeti. From July to October,
sure what happened to the town of Gedi
can also find records of fauna and plant
the promise of rain and fresh life giving
and its people. This once great civilization
species related to the evolution theory
grass in the north brings more than 1.3
was a powerful and complex Swahili
e.g. elephants, crocodiles- displayed in-situ
million Wildebeest together into a single
settlement with a population of over
at the Cradle of Mankind site. In
massive herd. They pour across the border
2500, built during the 13th century. The
addition to fossil records, the existence of
into the Mara, making a spectacular
greatest of all of Gedi's mysteries was its
a long record of technological evolution
entrance in a surging column of life that
sudden and inexplicable desertion in the
with tools as old as 2.3 million years old
stretches from horizon to horizon. Perfect
17th century. The entire town was
also exists. If that isn’t a rare enough feat
atmosphere where predator meets prey.
suddenly abandoned by all its residents,
for you, come and take a journey through
The Mara has been called the Kingdom of
leaving it to ruin in the forest. There are
the most spectacular scenery in Kenya
Lions and these regal and powerful
no signs of battle, plague, disturbance or
while experiencing the rich cultures of
hunters dominate these grasslands.
any cause for this sudden desertion. No
minority communities like the almost
Cheetahs are also a common sight in the
written account of either the rise or
EXTINCT El Molo!
Mara, and during the great migration it’s a
sudden fall of Gedi was ever made. Today
sight to behold when these carnivores
there is an excellent museum and well
move in for the kill, a rare sight beheld live
trained guides on hand to take visitors
other than from National Geographic
through the ruins. Gedi remains a
features. This is your chance to come and
mysterious and atmospheric place to visit.
see what animals do best: Live Wild!
The pillars and stone walls, ruined
Kenya Suguta Valley Mau Escarpment
mosques and tombs now lie among Kikuyu
stands of trees. The stone floors are thick
United Nations Environment
Kenya is the only country on earth that
with leaves, and giant shrews scuttle
Programme
you can experience all known
through the deserted houses while birds
topographical diversity within an area of
and butterflies drift through the air. Come
Kenya is home to much much more and
580,367 km2. Experience the white sandy
and awaken the Sherlock Holmes within
to attempt to capture it all would need
beaches in the South Coast, Coral reefs
you, a chance for your name to live
volumes of books and there would still be
and islets in the North Coast, Glaciated
forever should you be the fortunate
more to write about after each volume
mountains with snow-capped peaks, the
“archaeologist” who uncovers the ruins
set print! But with the little written come
Rift Valley with its scarps, volcanoes and
mysterious past.
and discover more for yourself and I can
ancient granitic hills, Sprawling savannah
guarantee you will not be disappointed.
plains rich with big game, Flat desert
Ticket ready, yes? If not, how about a
Experience the warmth of the people, the
landscapes, Natural fresh water lakes and
pilgrimage? Make your pilgrim trip to the
mouth watering cuisine, the breath taking
Equatorial forests.
Cradle of Mankind and discover the
scenes at Tsavo National Park among
land where your ancestors once trod in
others, the tranquil air in the highlands
Portuguese
Turkana. The Turkana Boy dated 1.6 Million
and the ever alive spirit of adventure.
Still haven’t booked your ticket yet? How
years was a young boy of 9 – 12 years
Welcome home.
about some mystery on your tour? The
old, 1.6 meters tall, and is the only almost
coastal town of Malindi hosts one of
complete skeleton of a human related
(For more information and assistance in
Kenya's great unknown treasures: The
fossil ever found in the world. The
planning your trip visit
Gedi Ruins - a wonderful lost city lying in
National Museums of Kenya holds the
www.magicalkenya.com)
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 55
Travel Suite.
Harmattan in the west coast of Africa Harmattan is the dry sandy wind that blows in the west coast of Africa during December January and beyound. This time, it is very cold, windy and dusty. The air is sapped of moist and with very low humidity. People usually need to top up their moisturisers, mostly used are pomades and vaseline. The dust rises so high in the air and changes the entire out look of the environment. Houses, objects and even people turn redish, smells and odours travel faster this time as well. This is not your best time to wear white clothings. The dust is particularly a disturbance to the eye and skin if not properly cared for. This end part of dry season is a very tough time in the rural areas due to lack of rain and lack of water supply. Crops hardly will survive at this time. Children find it a fun time to play with the dust but for adults, there's nothing fun about harmattan.
56 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Witch Kentu had a Horrible Day By Faustina Anyanwu. Our Editor Faustina has come up with rather a very interesting children's story this time. We are truly thrilled about the book and recommend it not just because she is our editor but, because the book speaks for itself. Below are a few comments that parents and childrens experts have said about Witch Kentu had a Horrible day. "Witch Kentu had a Horrible Day is a very funny rhyming story where the main character gets more than she bargained for when trying to upset the children who play in the park. Excellent moral tale with clever use of bright illustrations in traditional style" - Mrs Wellington, parent and creative designs enterpreneur. "Children love the rhythms and the repetitions in the verses... Highly recommended for emerging readers" - Doug Johnston, Head Teacher Gallions Mount Primary School Plumstead London. "Great read liked the choice of words which will indeed appeal to the children. Not much is given away with this first book of the series and I bet kids can't wait till the next one to see what Kentu gets up to. By the way, Witch Kentu is very stylish, digging her pointed red boots I could pull that off". - Noni Jay (Canada)
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 57
Travel Suite.
Your style, your standard are what you have to carry to set yourself apart from the crowd. You can't let these slip away when travelling for the all important business. Whether you are taking off to an exotic place or on a safari to the shores of natural Africa, paying attention to details is what keeps the real attention to who you are. We have spotted these brilliant get organised suite cases to help you walk the mile with much expected confidence. Whether you opt for a toned up juicy orange, or toned down chocolate brown colours, debenhams.com have all that you need to get going in and out of the plane to the luxury hotel to the business presentation, still looking fresh,smart and your best.
58 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
My Black woman Helping the Black woman to be her best. www.mypearlwoman.blogspot.com
60 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
““The The P Pursuit ursuit O Off E Excellence x c e l l e n c e IIss O Our ur A Aim” im”
A. VINCENT SOLICITORS COMMISSIONERS FOR OR OA ATHS T Call us today oday to see how we can help you!
1C W Woolwich ooolwich New Road Woolwich, o London SE18 6EX Woolwich, London, T eel: 020 8316 5858 Tel: Fax: 020 8854 2262 Email: info@avincentsolicitors.co.uk
www.avincentsolicitors.co.uk www w.avincentsolicitors.co.uk .avincentsoli .
“The Pursuit Of Excellence Is Our Aim” We W ea are re h here er e re tto oh help elp y you ou iin na all ll a aspects spects o off tthe he ffollowing: olllo owing:
Immigration s Employment s Family s Crime Crime Housing s Mental Mental Health s Community Care Violence Domestic V iolence s Bail Bail Applications s Appeal Hearings Judicial Reviews s Civil Litigations All our caseworkers and solicitors are experienced and supervised by a Solicitor Advocate. We have multilingual multilingu caseworkers eg French & Italian languages
www.avincentsolicitors.co.uk www w.avincentsolicitors.co.uk .
Food.
Indulge yourself in a little treat and for once let the weight be... Rebecca Edwards
Red Velvet Cupcakes Yields 30 2 1/2 cups of Cake Flour 1 1/2 Sugar 1 Tsp Salt 1 Tsp Baking Soda 2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder 1 1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil 1 Cup Butter Milk 2 Eggs 1 Tsp Vanilla Flavour 1 Tsp White Vinegar 1 8 oz bottle of Red Food Colouring 1. Set your oven to 350 degrees 2. Line cupcake pans with cupcake sleeves 3. Mix all the dry ingredients in one bowl with a whisk 4. Mix all the wet ingredients together in a separate bowl with a whisk 5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix for 3 minutes using a hand mixer on low speed. 6. Pour batter in cupcake holders in let bake for 20 minutes. Cream Cheese Icing 1 Stick of unsalted butter 1 8oz Cream Cheese 3 Cups of Confection Sugar 1 1/2 Tsp Vanilla Flavor 1. Mix butter and cream cheese together until creamy 2. Add vanilla 3. Add sugar one cup at a time mix till smooth
Jazzies’ delight cupcake sounds to me as a perfect excuse to take a trip to Miami this festive season, where a 32-year-old mother of twin girls Rebecca Edward’s rocks a variety of cup cakes to indulge with friends or that special one. A true baking from experience, Rebecca started baking at the tender age of 10 with her grandparents. Since then, she has taken to make baking cup cakes a thing to love rather than a job. In 2008 when Rebecca was laid off from her job, she officially opened her baking gates for business, real business I mean! Rocking cupcakes in different styles and flavours earning her the famous nickname ‘Cupcake Lady’. On any giving Friday you can try a variety of flavours up to five flavours sometimes in a dozen of cupcakes. All Jazzies delight’s baked goods are baked to order. You can find out more on facebook at (facebook.com/jazziedelights, Email; jazziesdelights@gmail.com).
62 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Get into the festive thrills at Legacy African Restaurant & Bar. If you are after a hotspot offering dinner that captures the essence of African home-cooking, Legacy is the place. Elegantly located at 53 Camberwell road Southeast London. Legacy provides stunning venue for: • Dinner Parties • Clubs • Wedding • Birthday and private parties. • Business lunch • Church occasions and meetings. Providing a unique atmosphere, tasty food and excellent customer services are what make great restaurant says Son of Man the Restaurateur. Unlike others, the imprint of Legacy is visibly seen in both the superb lighting and brilliant décor designed to create a truly chill out environment all with the customer in mind. The mouth watering menu features the best of Nigerian cuisine: spicy pepper soup, Edikang Ikong, Nkwobi, Isi Ewu and pounded Yam served with soup of your choice like Egusi, bitter leaf, Ogbono, Okra etc. Also in the menu, are Okpa, Ugba, Snail, Suya, Stockfish, Ukwa, Ewedu/Egusi, Sierra Leone dishes (Krain Krain, Tollah) and many more. You can only experience African good food when you come in. Whatever your budget, we provide you with the best of African cuisine. Not surprisingly that Legacy attracts a platoon of Black stars in sports, music and movie industry. Our buffet is on every Sunday 1pm – 4pm, providing fantastic opportunity to explore our range of distinctive dishes in various spices and flavours. Complimentary to our Legacy is the exclusive club at our basement, featuring world class DJs, and excellent parking facilities.
Find Legacy on 53 Camberwell Road, London SE5 0EZ. Tel: 02035830058. Opening hours: Mon - Thurs: 12.00 to 1am, and Friday - Sunday: 12.00 to 3am.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 63
Food.
…Searching for the real taste of Africa Smart foodies certainly like to go to
jokes even if it’s not part of the bill.
culinary hotspots where creativity is
cause the financial crisis? All that is needed is it not to put the prices of
clearly emblazoned on the menu. They
The setting is countryside and laid back,
things back to where they were? Then no
love excellent customer services, the
with more than 15 other restaurants
one will have to be cueing about looking
authenticity of the dishes, sweetness of
uniquely looking over each other, sitting
to repair reputation as if it’s a mechanic
the environment and of course the
side by side a typical scene that I have
problem. Fix yourself and leave the poor
affordability and uniqueness of the food
only seen in Lagos Island. One fantastic
church alone I concluded.
itself. Do a dive or take them for
thing about Brixton village is not only that
granted you see diners wiping their
it houses different restaurants indicating
For me the pendulum is on a full swing
whiskers and chins with linen tablecloth
diversity and global make-up of the capital
carrying me to where I can have quality
before the start of courses.
but links you straight to your country-style
meal with value for the price tag and still
cuisine. From my well-positioned table in
give me that original African thrill and
My task is to locate a perfect place to
‘Fish, Wings and Tings’, I could giraffe and
this is not a compromised option.
dine in London with a real taste of
comfortably read the menu on the wall,
Africa. This hasn’t been easy to achieve
which is the most important part of my
With heavy soundtracks of Bob Marley
and realising that this goal comes with
foodie job. Nodding my head; I muttered,
chattering, squealing and clicking at the
responsibilities I have to invoke the spirit
“you need to spread out your six senses –
background and hammering out dance
of Zulu resistance visualising King
(sound, sight, smell, intuition, taste and
routines I was not left out in re-
Cetshorayo Kampandi who historically
touch) for exciting and good eating
discovering my African route. My taste
defeated the British army during the
experience today”.
buds were not left out either, as that of
invasion of Zululand in 1879. This grand
touch is kept on standby prompting me
resistance earned him great admiration
The magic is the authenticity; starting
to recall a popular line- “we need some
and respect when he visited London.
from their warm and homely menu: the
girls here”.
appetiser - fresh and spicy reggae wings Honestly, this determination paid off with
with tamarind BBQ sauce jammed with
Looking at the Thai restaurant - Kaosarn,
good timing as a plus. I settled at ‘Fish,
pineapple and mango chutney. Then you
I could see where the girls are giggling
Wings and Tings’ Caribbean gourmet at
got a waitress whose charm is enough to
and arguing on the latest fashion trend
Brixton village. The wind of sail blowing
put your stressful life on hold, her smiles
and downing their cocktail of Irish cream,
in my favour, the weather brilliant with
and excellent customer services can win
champagne and all sorts of drinks. But
cool autumn spell, I got nothing to worry
her an award and at the same time
now my question is where are the guys?
about, my only job here is to sit, relax
provide temporary dose to quell you
Probably the financial crisis has forced
and have a good time.
from the impact of the global financial
them away from eateries and restaurants
crisis. That reminds me, an article in the
leaving chics choreographing alone in this
This busy and friendly location is a bit
Evening Standard on the 18th of
cool autumn spell. Instead I see them
away from the digital world of ‘insert
September 2012, how executives of big
(the guys) at the corners standing tall,
cash’ on the high streets. Here we can
businesses are turning to the church to
forming pockets of human wall not
pay and chat with real people who can
repair business’s reputations. Hmmm,
hooked to the girls or anything serious
help you digest the meal with some
why the cue to churches, did the church
but booze, chats and banter. This is
64 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Food.
clearly unfair to everyone I quip.
already immersed in a party atmosphere,
side. The aroma gives me thick skin and
siting at the firing line between the
confidence that I’m in the right place –
In a way though, the scene is electrifying,
glamorous girls who are showing off
Caribbean Gourmet. Any one watching
good for the businesses. Thanks to the
their curves and exquisite beauty and
will definitely see that my chin is up, my
waitress who gave me eye contact
the gorilla boys who lay ambush with
taste buds salivating and wish I could go
bringing me face to face with the
their target written boldly in their
easy on the food. This truly gives the real
standard ‘Ting- goat Roti’, filled with
respective minds. The huge rising column
taste of Africa…
potatoes, chickpeas, Pumpkin, Spring
of steam from the food is enough to
beans with curried goat stew. As I am
repel any possible offensive from either
The search continues…
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 65
Home.
Make your home a place to relax and have comfort this season A home is a place to relax and have peace
The expert tips on how to de-clutter.
from all the hassles of work and the world
1. Minimise the display of things in the
5. Add some beautiful yet simple touches to add drama to those
there is, you can’t ask for any less. Any
house. The fewer the better. Especially
spaces that have been created. The
moment you feel you are getting less than
if you have kids. In this way you are
little things that can add this drama
this (comfort) in your own home then
saving yourself the headache of
could be new wallpaper to suit the
there is a problem.
worrying about damages to your all-
sofa, a change of Colour of your
important items. Keeping the space for
bedding, a change of position of
To define this better, I had say, a
free flow of air and movement is
things; moving things around from
comfortable home is not just a matter of
rather a better idea.
time to time could help discover the
looking great rather a home that works for
2. Make provision for enough storage
best in them. You can also reshuffle
your need, gives you the total control and
space. Store, store away things that are
the books on the shelf, consider also
peace of mind. That is what I call home.
not practically in use. If they are not
putting a lamp on that old speaker to
adding any more tweaks to your Xmas
add some focal point. There are
dĂŠcor then store it away.
endless little things that you can do
In creating this perfect scenario of a perfect home is very simple. In one word de-clutter.
3. Get rid of any item or items that are
to add the festive effect and yet make
De-cluttering the space in your home creates
using up space, not valuable, yet create
your home as comfor table, workable
beautiful working spaces for you without
negative energy around the house.
and relaxing as ever.
breaking the bank.This is most important for you and your family this Xmas.
4. Store away your valuables that are not in use or are needed around the house now.
66 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Enjoy your home!
Home.
Add the finishing touches to your home this season 1. These Xmas theme cushions have all that you need to transform any sofa into a spectacular one. 2. Quick tidy has never been such a fun. At the buzz of the front bell you can quickly pop in those headstrong little clutters into this fur skin collector. (2 & 3 home accessories can be bought at: Amara living Limited, Unit 4 Concord Farm, School Road, Rayne, Braintree Essex, CM77 6SP. Price available on demand.) 3. Vases never go out of trend and so are these stylish timeless sets of eye-catching vases that are sure focal point for a perfect tweak in any space. Also available only at www.debenhams.com
1 2
3
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 67
Health and Beauty.
How beauty blunders can deny you the all-important job By Estella Moses This is as important to the guys as it is to
mascara are on top of the list of beauty
to over confident personality. Also that the
ladies. According Debenhams’ Beauty Hall,
mishaps that can wreck your chances of
common ‘lipstick on the teeth scenario
your beauty regime now holds the key to
getting the job.
quickly indicates carelessness.
the job hunt, then it’s worthwhile for you
An untidy chipped nail polish is a no- no
Other beauty blunders ranking high on the
to read and digest this piece of survey
for interviewers making it the worst
haters list include also a strong line of
based on responses from 2000
beauty blunder ever. This blunder is usually
foundation which indicates lack of
Debenhams online customers who have
noticed first upon arrival when shaking
attention to details while a drawn on
previously interviewed someone for a job.
hands with them. Take note ladies!
beauty spot shows that you may be
securing that dream job. If you are still in
dishonest. According to the survey, it takes just 30
Split ends have been revealed to indicate
seconds for an interviewer to make up her
laziness. While smudged mascara is a sign
Debenhams beauty director Sara Stern
mind about a candidate. Often times, these
of a party animal that will ditch the
says, “Clearly, the application of make-up
judgements are based on the beauty
boardroom for a bar. Again, an absence of
and fragrance is just as important as
blunders that they see.
mascara is a hint of emotional wreck.
making sure your outfit is clean and ironed
Chipped nails, split
The survey goes on to say that, a bright
natural looking middle ground is the way
ends and
red lipstick, heavily pencilled brows and
to go for sure-fire success.”
smudged
overpowering perfume could be attributed
ahead of an interview. It seems a more
Most hated beauty blunders
What they see
What they think
24% 19% 17% 13% 7% 5% 4% 3% 3% 2% 2% 1%
Chipped nails Split ends Smudged mascara Fake tan Bright red lipstick Heavily pencilled brows Overpowering perfume Lipstick on teeth No mascara Line of foundation Drawn on beauty spot 100% immaculate
Nervous/unprepared Lazy Party animal Loves a holiday Power crazy Too confident/cocky Attention seeker Careless Emotional wreck Lack of attention to detail Untruthful Gunning for boss’s job
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of 240 stores across 28 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions. In the UK, Debenhams has a top four market share in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It leads the market in premium health and beauty. Debenhams is the eleventh biggest UK online retailer by traffic volume and in March 2012 was awarded "Multichannel Retailer of the Year" at the Oracle Retail Week Awards. Debenhams has been investing in British design for 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include: Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Erickson Beamon, FrostFrench, Henry Holland, Roksanda Ilincic, Betty Jackson, Jonathan Kelsey, Carol Lake, Ben de Lisi, Julien Macdonald, Melissa Odabash, Jane Packer, Jenny Packham, Pearce Fionda, Preen, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Jonathan Saunders, Lisa Stickley,Yukari Sweeney, Ashley Thomas, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.
68 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Health and Beauty.
Simple tips on how to autumn proof your skin this season By Flaubert Ajiero Taken from: My Black woman Blog (www.mypearlwoman.blogspot.com) The sudden change in the temperature coupled with the allergens
falling leaves and the colder temperature are all culprits to the
from the falling leaves can leave your skin on the edge. These
worsening conditions. However, with careful understanding and
simple tips will help you to understand and cope with the
following the simple steps, you will be able to help yourself gain
common autumn skin conditions.
some skin comfort and enjoy the nature’s fresh gift.
This is the time of the year when people that suffer skin conditions
Lock in the moisture
like dry skin, or eczema notice the condition getting worse. The
As much as we want to curl up with the heater warmth, it is
flare-ups can be a nightmare for the person and the entire family.
necessary that we do not sap our skin of the moisture needed to
The itching and discomfort can be irritating and annoying. Experts,
stay pumped fresh.The heating has been noted to dry up the
believe, the sudden change in the weather condition; the wind, the
moisture in the rooms leaving your skin dry and longing for moisture.
Tips... 1. Remember to keep your room well ventilated, let in some fresh air to exchange for the moisture sapped one indoors. 2. Avoid very hot baths and showers. Afterwards, pat dry your skin, and put on moisturisers. Topping up with heavier moisturisers will go a long way. 3. Add some emollient oil to your bath water and avoid staying for so long in the water. 4. Avoid close contact with the heater (radiators). 5. As much as possible avoid soaps as they tend to wash off the natural oil on the skin leaving your skin unprotected. 6. Eating balanced diet, with enough fruits and vegetables at this time can not be a luxury rather a very important part of your routine. This will help keep your immunity optimised. 7. Take food supplements regularly. Vitamins and mineral are lost each month from menstrual cycle and women should learn to top up these essential minerals with food supplements. 8. Avoid using fabric conditioners and watch that the stressor is not your detergent. If so experts have said that non-biological detergents are safer. 9. Avoid excessive exposure to extreme temperatures. 10. Exercise, a stroll out doors will expose your skin to some coolness that leaves you freshened.
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 69
Health and Beauty.
How to care for your eyes while in Africa this harmattan period By Zoba Ohaeri The eyes are often thought of as being weak
body sensation, infection and redness do
and fragile. They can however stand up to a
occur during the dusty period.This is usually
lot of abuse. But there is no doubt that the
severe and affects people in close proximity
eye is one of the softer, more vulnerable parts
to the desert.
*
dehydration which indirectly after tear formation *
of the body and can suffer from many health conditions.
conjunctivitis.Try to cut down your exposure to dust mites particularly in
eye during summer period:
your bedroom *
*
Ensure to wear your sunglasses before leaving your house, opt for one that
Tears are secreted to lubricate the eyes,The
covers your temples.This will prevent
surface of the cornea must be kept moist at
against the harmful ultra violet rays of the
*
sun, dust and fumes too.
*
all times so that we can see clearly.There are *
Use special allergen reducing cover for your bedding especially your pillow.
hamattan dust?
three layers that secrete the tear film wetting
Dust at home can bring on you allergic
Below are some tips on how to care for your
If there are so much dust in the air how will my eyes escape the ravages of
It is advisable to take lots of fluid to avoid
*
Keep your AC unit clean so that they won’t cycle allergens inside Doors and windows are both close When cleaning the floor use damp
Make it a point to splash cold water on
mob or rag to trap the allergen instead
the eyes.The superficial oily layer is secreted
your eyes at least three times in a day.This
of dry mob
by tiny gland in the lid called the meiboman
will remove dust particles that enters your
gland. For this gland any tear produce will dry
eyes. It is more effective to use rose water.
up quickly during the harmattan and will
Rose water acts as anti-bacterial tonic and
pose treat to vision and integrity of the eyes.
as refreshing toner too. *
Do not rub your eyes with dirty hand, it
The tear fluid wets the surface of the cornea
may aggravate any eye allergy and
and it destroys germs entering the eyes
perhaps cause conjunctivitis
during dust period. The accessory lachrymal
*
glands secrete this tear fluid.The goblet cell of the conjunctiva helps the lid to spread the
If you are suffering from any eye allergy make sure you do not sit in front of AC
*
It is important to limit the use
tear film evenly over the surface of the
of contact lines in dusty
cornea otherwise it will form droplets.
period *
Reduce the use of make
Meanwhile, the eyes are directly exposed to
up. It is vital to remove
harsh weather especially the dust particles
all trace of make up
carried by the wind. Thus itching, foreign
before sleeping
70 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
EYES CHECK IS LIFE CHECK.
Relationships.
Fall but Never stumble, find and keep your love forever By Vivian Frankie To my friends who are married, love isn’t
to demand, and get hurt but never be in
To my friends who are still holding onto
about it’s your fault, but I'm sorry. Not
pain…
sad things of life, I tell you when you meet
where are you? But I'm right her! Not how
someone who means a lot to you, but only
could you, but I understand. Not I wish you
To my friends who are Possessive, it breaks
to find out in the end it was never bound
were, but I'm thankful you are mine.
your heart to see the one you love happy
to be, just let go and let your life flow. It
with someone else, but its more painful to
will come to you when you least expect it.
To my friends who are engaged, the true
know that the one you love is unhappy
Love can make you happy but often times
measure of compatibility is not the years
with you…
it hurts, but love is only special when you
spent together, but how good you are for each other.
give it to someone who is worth it. So To my friends who are afraid to confess
take your time and choose the best...
love. Love hurts when you break up with To my friends who are not so single, love
someone. It hurts even more when
isn't about becoming somebody else
someone breaks up with you. But hurts the
"perfect person" but finding someone who
most when the person you love has no
helps you become the best you can be …
idea how you feel.
To my friends who are heartbroken, heartbreak lasts as long as you want and cuts as deep as you allow them to go. The challenge is not how to survive heartbreaks, but to learn from them... To my friends who are playboys/girls, never say I love you if you don't care. Never talk about feelings when it is not there. Never look in the eyes when all you do is lie. The most cruel thing a guy can do to a girl is to let her fall in love when he doesn't intend to catch her fall… To my friends who are Single, love is like a butterfly. There is no perfect one out there, but you can make the imperfect to be perfect. The more you chase it, the more it eludes you… To my friends who are naïve how to be in love, fall but do not stumble, be consistent but not persistent, share and never be unfair, understand and try not
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 71
Relationships.
Why Men Lose Interest In Great Women Does it seem like you can accomplish anything you set your mind to in your life career, interests, hobbies, friends - except for meeting the right guy and having a lasting, committed relationship with him?
However, many women take action by trying to take the lead in the relationship in hopes that this will "fill the gaps" in the relationship and start to make things work better and get the man re-engaged again.
If you did somehow meet a great guy, are you confident that you'd know what this attractive, successful, and single man was really looking for in a woman?
But the reality is that making this shift trying to take charge and lead often ends up with the woman feeling both unappreciated, and like she's the one trying to "convince" the man that the relationship should be different and better.
And more importantly - would you know how to have him RECOGNIZE YOU as the right woman for him and want to be with you and explore a real relationship? For a real understanding of what will make a man see you as the right woman from the start and feel more intensely ATTRACTED to you each time you get together, then read on.
I'm sure I don't have to tell you that this is not a place where you want to be as a woman in a relationship. Plus...Convincing is a 100% sure way to turn a man off and stop any attraction he might have been feeling for you.
behind what she's saying. That's why for a man, there are really two main ways that he will sense a woman's communication in these more intense times of potential relationship conflict. A man will either sense that: A) You are asking him to talk and share in order to truly try and UNDERSTAND both him and your relationship better. *Hint: I think of this as "listening to hear the truth", not "listening to hear what YOU want to hear", and there's a HUGE difference. It's this kind of listening to genuinely hear the truth that creates the critically important "safe space" a man needs to sense for him to share HIS true feelings with you.
There's a much, much better way... There's a common strategy lots of smart women take on when they sense something has shifted or is off in their relationship with a man. But instead of this strategy helping the relationship get back on track, it often accidentally creates distance in the relationship and pushes the man away.
THE SMART WAY TO KEEP A MAN ENGAGED There's a way to communicate with a man and keep him invested in you and the relationship - without any convincing at all. Doing this involves three key elements. Do you know what these 3 communication elements are?
I call this strategy the "Convincer." I'll explain it like this... Smart women often have high-standards and expect the best for themselves - from their relationship and from the man they're with - and that's a great thing. So when they aren't getting what they know is the best from the relationship, they take action. Now, it's a MUST to communicate and share your feelings when you don't feel your partner is giving to you and your relationship the way you are, and it's a good thing to do this as soon as you feel it.
Give up? Below is a bit about each of these 3 key elements: COMMUNICATION SECRET #1: Truly Listen Men - just like women - need to feel like its okay to air their feelings, and that they will be heard and respected. And when they realize their partner isn't really listening or interested in who they truly are or how they truly feel, they will start to shut off bit by bit. A man can sense how a woman is trying to talk with him or ask him questions, and he can sense if there are intense emotions
72 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Or, on the other hand, a man will sense that... B) You are asking him to talk and share not to truly talk and listen, but in order to play out your own feelings that you are having a hard time with, or to vent difficult feelings you don't know how to communicate. Guess which way of talking and listening makes a man feel most comfortable to open up and respond with a deeper level of thought, care and honesty? And guess which way of asking a man a question and listening makes him have a difficult time opening up and being honest about his true feelings? Now... knowing this, the question is how you communicate in those important times where you're feeling something and you need to talk with your man? Which way do you approach the conversation, and are you asking to hear his truth and share yours?
Relationships. Or are you asking because you need to first find a way to uncork all the feelings you're having a hard time understanding and you hope to hear what you want to hear from him? Keep this in mind the next time you're communicating with a man so that you listen without judgment and preconceived ideas about what he "should" say. COMMUNICATION SECRET #2: Quit the Criticism There's something absolutely critical you need to get about men if you want to enjoy a lasting relationship that feels easy and like a "fit" for YOU and for the man you're with. It's this... Men do not respond to CRITICISM in relationships. Now, this might sound obvious, but it's incredible how many relationships have this dynamic where men either accidentally perceive a woman's communication as criticism... or where a woman is accidentally criticizing in an effort to make the relationship better. You should know that most couples do not see it when they're criticizing each other. That's why it's the subtlest of how criticism starts to undermine both partners in the relationship and turn them against each other that make criticism so destructive. In the end, criticism will motivate a man to distance himself from you and see your relationship as a negative place he needs to get away from in order to feel better about himself.
When a man feels criticized, he'll do most or all of the following: • Stop communicating any appreciation for the woman • Feel like a failure in his life and in your relationship and stop trying or being passionate in both • Find ways to act out either directly or indirectly to express his frustration • Spend more time away from you and your relationship • Stop letting you in on his deeper thoughts and feelings and shut you out • No longer want to know about and understand your feelings and be a source of support or comfort for you Looking at that list, you can see that criticism shuts down some huge emotional areas in a man. When you think about it, criticism is just one way to try and create change and to motivate someone (a man) to do something differently. Can you think of a more effective way of communicating with a man that will get you the response you REALLY WANT with him in your relationship?
independent, and successful women unintentionally block opportunities for a man to please them. In short, they make it difficult for a man to do for them the very things they'd like to receive! If you're used to being a go-getter and taking matters into your own hands at work and in your daily life, you might accidentally be preventing a man from stepping in and being THE MAN for you. So, not only is he not able to please you and DO for you, but there are fewer opportunities for you to show APPRECIATION for him. This is an easy fix, but it takes practice. It means you need to practice letting go of the reigns of the relationship and LET HIM do more for you. You don't need to do anything at all for this to happen - all you need to do is stop DOING, and this will create the space for him to move forward and DO for you. That's when you'll create fresh opportunities to acknowledge and APPRECIATE him when he does. Appreciation is the fuel that feeds a man's passion for you and makes him not want to leave your side.
There's something that truly works MAGIC with a man. Read the next point to find out what it is... COMMUNICATION SECRET #3: Show Appreciation A man wants to be respected for his thoughts and actions, and the way you communicate this to him is by showing APPRECIATION. Unfortunately, often times women especially smart,
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 73
People.
Evoking the ‘Steel of will’ this Black History Month By Emeka Anyanwu What strikes me most as we mark black
Martin Luther King Jr.
history month this year is the positive wave
powerful than nuclear atomic bomb. “Again and again we must rise to the majestic
of changes arriving on our shores in this
What is the most striking thing about
height of meeting physical force with Soul
21st century.
Martin Luther? For me, it is his land mark
force”. This practically forms the solid
speech – “I have a ream” made in 1963. A
foundation that supports his vision and that
We now have fair opportunity to express
speech powerfully setting out common
is what we are seeing today.
ourselves individually and collectively. We
grounds for both Black and White… “One
pursue our dreams without the old racial
day live in a nation where people will not
Nelson Mandela
segregation. Pushing boundaries in sports,
be judged by the Colour of their skin but
It is said that “a vessel is known by the
movie making, music, politics, fashion design,
by the content of their character. Again…
sound it produces whether it be cracked or
you name it.
have come to realise that their destiny is
not”, so men are proven by their words
tied up with our destiny”. Clearly one can
whether they be wise or not.
For sure this wind of sail would have taken
see his vision drawn from century long
us to another dangerous territory had our
racial prejudice that gave rise to the passing
Nelson Mandela made several important
icons (Rosa Parks, Martin Luther Jr, Nelson
of civil right laws in America.
speeches during the anti-apartheid
Mandela, Jesse Owen, Anne Lowe and host
movements but non-seemed as important
of others) failed to anchor their dreams on
Underneath this prophetic speech is the
and crucial as the one he used to define his
the ‘steel of will’. Indeed they are true
steel of will he possessed that was more
mission. “During my life time, I have
Africans. Rosa Parks. Rosa Parks was born in Tuskegee, Alabama on February 4,1913. During this period, Jim Crow laws were still enforced and racial segregation was commonplace. Parks vividly recalled seeing ‘White kids’ ride on school buses while the ‘Black kids’ had to walk their way to school. At the time, it was a custom and way of life to her. But one day, her curiosity made her to question what she then thought was a custom. She demonstrated a steel of will on the evening of December 1st 1955, when she refused to give up her seat for a White man on the basis that the law was not fair to her. This singular move sparked the popular Montgomery Alabama bus boycott. She was later known as the mother of civil right movement.
74 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
People.
dedicated myself to the struggle of
enormous helping her escape from
African people. I have fought against
gloom and despair into world of
White domination and I have against
elegance and admiration.
Black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free
Jesse Owen.
society in which all people live together in harmony and with equal
The inspiring story of Jesse Owen
opportunities is an ideal, which I
cannot be complete without
hope to live for and achieve. But if
revisiting the 1936 Olympic scene in
need be, it is an ideal for which I am
Berlin Germany.
prepared to die”. The most striking thing in the event A steel of will that led to his 27years
was the ‘steel of will’ he
imprisonment. But now Nelson
demonstrated. Hitting 10:3 seconds
Mandela is the most celebrated
to bag 100metres race was
African on earth.
resounding, yet he went on to win 200 metres, 4x400metres relay and
Anne Lowe.
going further to win the long jump in the same Olympic event was
Do you know Anne Lowe designed the
phenomenal.
bridal gown worn by Jacqueline Kennedy in 1953? Yes! She was the
His victory brewed up a storm that
most sort after female fashion designer
destroyed the Nazi propaganda and
of her time yet so little is known of her
theory of White supremacy.
and her works. Of course no matter
Interestingly, they were rattled and
how good or beautiful a thing is, as long
could not hide their dismay. “How
as it is made by an African- American,
dare a Black man achieve sure feat”?
little or no appreciation was accorded
Oh yes! He was genetically modified,
to it in those days. And Anne’s was not
unreal and unnatural. What they
different, she was ‘the world’s best kept
failed to understand was that skin
secret’.Thank goodness there’s now C.
Colour was only a pigment hiding
Hub and it is no more a secret.
the main thing – Steel of will
Inspired by her history and desire to
To sum it up, Jesse Owen left us a
alter that perception, she
notable statement, one of my
meticulously created designs she
favourite quotes of all time: “There is
thought could fill the hole in her life.
something that can happen to every
Her white colleagues at the time did
athlete and every human being. The
not want her to stay in the same
instinct to slack off, to give less than
class with them, it was the artificial
your best, the instinct to hope you
boundary that made her sit alone in
can win through luck or through
a separate classroom away from
your opponent not doing his best.
everyone else, determined to make a
Instead of going to your limit and
difference, she worked tirelessly to
passing your limit where victory is
prove her point. She continued to
always found. Defeating those
create elegant designs used to teach
negative instincts that are out to
the rest of her mates.
defeat us is the difference between winning and loosing and we face that
The ugly scene did not make her
battle everyday of our lives”.
give up rather, her steel of will was
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 75
Did you know that? Drogba was born on: 11th March 1978 At 18 years Drogba made his professional debut as a footballer. Drogba was paid ÂŁ3.3million to join Marseille in 2003. Drogba made 226 appearances at Chelsea FC and scored 100 goals while playing for the club between 2004 - 2012.
Join the discussion on facebook.com/chubmagazine and @C_hubmagazine on twitter.
C.Hub Creativity. Entertainment. Black
76 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Samuel Eto Fils
Born on the 10th day of March 1981,Eto one of the most valued players from Africa was born in Nkon Cameroon. His career peaked between 2004 and 2009 when he made record 145 appearances for Barcelona where he scored his highest number of goals, a record of 108 goals. However 1999 saw his lowest record of his career during his time on loan with Espanyol where he made no appearance throughout the year as a result scored no goals for that season. Facts on Achievements: Eto holds the record in number of appearances by any African player in La Liga. • In 2010, he was the first player to win two European continental trebles with Barcelona and Inter Milan. • Eto is the second player in the world to ever score in two separate UEFA championships league final. • Eto is the highest honoured African player winning record 4-time African player of the year, for the years, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010. • Under his new contract, Eto is the highest earned player in the world at £350,000 per week. • Eto is the record goal scorer in the history of African Nations Cup with 18 goals We love Eto. December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 77
Laugh it Out.
Random Jokes with Nonso. The thief and the mad man. A thief broke into a mad man’s house, he stole his TV and took off. The mad man ran after him, the faster the thief runs the faster the mad man follows. Finally the thief got tired and stopped and the mad man also stopped. Panting the mad man said to the thief, “take you forgot the remote”.
The man who makes caskets. A Nigerian man that makes caskets was going to deliver one of his coffins and his car breaks down on the way. Trying to meet up on time, he puts the coffin on his head and heads on to his destination. Suddenly, Nigerian Police with their problem sees him and wanted to extort money off him. Come here they said where are you carrying that to? Smartly the man replies, “I am relocating because I don’t like where they buried me”. On hearing this the Policemen runs as far as their legs could carry.
Akpos super answer. Akpos has just got admission to study in the university and he is so excited and studied all night in case. On the first day, in his first lecture, the lecturer asked, “Akpos, what would you call your mother’s elder and younger sisters if you call your mother Mum? Akpos replied, ‘Maximum and minimum’. What is trouble? 1. When the person interviewing you for your new job is the same guy you insulted in the traffic this morning. 2. When mosquito lands on your father’s baldhead and you try to kill it with a slap. 3. When you update your facebook timeline “salary things” and your landlord comments “on point”. 4. When you throw your last £50.00 into the bin instead of your burger wrapper. 5. When you finish eating in the restaurant only to find out your wallet fell out on the bus. 6. When Usain Bolt chases you with machete. 7. When you use candlelight to check if you have enough fuel in your generator. 8. When your plane lands in China and you mistakenly pick a luggage filled with coke. 9. When you mistakenly give a beggar £50.00 instead of £5.00
78 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Laugh it Out.
Crack your brain with Arowolo Jelil Can you put these words right? i.
Okeyrwn ----- (City)
ii. Kasnlria ------(Country) iii. Rubelmp ------(Profession) iv. Yikeiro -------(Part of the body) v. Pitlu -----------(Flower). If you answer all you are a genius If you answer 4 you are intelligent If you answer 3 you are sharp If you answer 2 you are average. If you answer 1 too bad. Define this? When a guy buys clothes and Pants for a girl and another guy removes them. What do you call that, division of labour or separation of power? If sex was to be taxed how would it be classified? Well, in my opinion this will be what you will be paying for. 1. Upon penetration ----- VAT: Vaginal Access Tax. 2. If more than 10 minutes inside ------Burial Tax 3. Upon withdrawal ----- Exit Tax. 4. Those without sex life------- Idle Access Tax 5. If you practice withdrawal method-------Withholding Tax 6. Sex with more than one partner-----Multiple Users Tax 7. If you regularly enjoy sex with staff and colleagues---- Staff Access Tax. 8. Sex with factory workers ----- Workmen Compensation Tax. 9. Those who pick ladies by the road side and have sex with them ------ Road Users Tax. What do you think? Learn the relationship between your age and shoe size Take your shoe size, multiply it by 5. Add 50 to it and multiply the answer by 20. Add 1012 to the answer, subtract the year you were born. The first digit is your shoe size while the last 2 digits is your age. Are you surprised?
December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1. C. Hub 79
In your own words! “You guys have started on a very high note. Very nice job. I hope
“Wow, I am so proud of you guys. The articles and interviews are
you continue to grow in strength”. - Brown
just on point. Keep it up”. - Omolola
“I saw the magazine at Brixton station and I was so excited as I have
“When I flipped through to the cake page, it just grabbed my fancy.
only seen it online. The editor’s letter was superb, strongly and
I knew definitely that this is different from the lot. Well done guys”. -
powerfully worded. Perfect! For a first issue I score you guys a 7/10.
Immanuel Emmanuel
The pages started quite low minus the editor’s letter, without much to read. Then it picks up with great articles. I had a very good read
“The runway pictures on pages 13 to 16 let you guys down but
all night with it.
then the other pages and the articles were great. I hope you guys fix the picture issue in the next. Well done”. - Ng
Also the colours are easy on the eye, the spacing and the font type excellent. All together great job!” - Mista JP
Thank you guys for your observations and solidarity. We value all our readers and are always happy to hear
“Very rich with great articles I can’t wait to see the second issue.
from you.
Well done”. - Imelda Nwagwu To send your comments please reach us on (facebook, “I am very impressed. I am not easily impressed but I tell you it’s a
twitter) or email us on: editor@fauntee.com
great job. Well done guys”. - Wise Tola “Impressive. Anyone that sees this magazine will know you definitely spent time and money on it. Great job I love it”. - Tej
C.Hub Creativity. Entertainment. Black
80 C. Hub December - February 2012/13 Issue 2. Volume 1.
Next issue... How time runs, oh! ain't we grateful to see the new year and still counting. Every new day is a gift and we know we deserve and love every bit of it. As we spring into the next cycle of the season we are more ready than ever to make our mark. Atleast we are ready to grow our own seed and see it germinate and yield. Yes thats what we are up to. This issue is filled with life that is: Africa through the screen. Meet the Adebanjos are ready to make the leap with us, Obi Emelonye is also with us and Adebayo Jones is geared up to take us on the ride in his fashion cruise. We are not leaving any stone unturned and that has been our promise to you from the start and gladly as you see we are getting better than ever. Stay with us and make the most of your time. Keep sharing and welcome to 2013. Horaay!
✃ Priority subscription.
Please complete the following to receive your magazine subscription: Your Details Please complete the following Name .......................................................................................................................................................................... Address ........................................................................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................................................................................... Postcode: .......................................................................... Tel: .................................................................................... E-mail: .......................................................................................................................................................................... To subscribe, simply fill this form and return to: Faunteewrites Ltd 71 Plumstead High Street SE18 1SB.
Payment Details (Tick as appropriate) 4 issues for just £8.00 only
❑
Subscription is available for UK addresses only.
Subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit gaurantee.
I enclose a cheque / postal order made payable to Faunteewrites Limited to the value of £................................................
I understand that this instruction may remain with FaunteeWrites, and if so details maybe passed eletronically to my
OR by direct debit:
bank/building society.
To Manager (bank Name)............................................................................... Branch sort code:................................................................................................
T/C May apply. Terms and conditions are avialble on fauntee.com
Bank/Building Society account number................................................... Signature...................................................................................................................
I want to make a gift subscription
Date............................................................................................................................
Please send C. Hub as a gift to:
Instructions to your bank or building society to pay direct debit
Title: Ms/Mrs/Miss/Mr Full Names................................................................. Address................................................................................................................
Please pay FaunteeWrites Limited Direct debits from the
.........................................................................................................................................
account detailed in this form.
Post Code..................................................................................................................
C. Hub Team
Contributors for this Edition.
Editor-in-chief Faustina Anyanwu editor@fauntee.com
Chinedu Okpara An accomplished photographer with an eye to details and perfection.
Contributing Editor Carol Osuagwu
He pushes boundaries and striving to bring outstanding images that stand the taste of time.
Fashion Editor Noni Jay Reviews Editor Ayo Kila Health and Beauty Editor Zoba Ohaeri Executive Director Emeka Anyanwu dir@fauntee.com Graphic Design Ian Curtis www.firstsightgraphics.com Publisher Faunteewrites Limited 71 Plumstead High Street, SE18 1SB. info@fauntee.com www.fauntee.com Printed by The Magazine Printing Co plc www.magprint.co.uk Marketing and Distributions (UK) Post Scriptum Distribution & Marketing Service Unit E3, The Marshgate Centre, 22 Marshgate, London E15 2NH Distributions and Advertisement (Africa) Tranzeet Ventures 6 Akinwumi Street, mende Maryland Lagos, Nigeria. tranzeetventures@yahoo.com We are very grateful to all that have contributed to the production of this issue. Especially Isaac Muchiry, Jelil Arowolo, Victus Okereke, Flaubert Ajiero and so many numerous to call. Copyright (c) 2012 Faunteewrites Ltd. All rights reserved. This magazine and its content belongs to Faunteewrites LTD. and nothing in it may be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. Materials submitted for publication are sent at owner's risk and, while every care has been taken, Faunteewrites LTD and or C. Hub magazine accepts no liability for loss or damage. We have done every effort to make sure every information in this issue is accurate, details and prices are subject to change. We reserve the right to edit and to or not to publish any materials sent in for publication.
Ayo Kila Our most valuable contributing reviews editor. She is a journalist graduate from the London Metropolitan University. Ayo specialises in post production editing in video and audio. Her love and passion for Soca Music resounds in her reviews that have graced C. Hub magazine from the start. Flaubert Ajiero Is a freelance relationships writer. He has graciously been a part of C. Hub. He is rare gem, using a multi-disciplinary approach to detail his points on relationship matters. His relationship group on facebook has gained over 1000 members in a space of 3 months. He is currently studying for a PhD in theory of Constraints at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. We are eagerly looking forward to his collection of short stories coming soon. Gozie Nwagwu A computer science graduate of University of Calabar Nigeria. He has played for various major clubs in Nigeria. His love for football is not easy to separate from his person. To him there is no live without football. a supper fan of Samuel Eto. Uche Emma Nonso A natural talent in his own right. A 21 year old undergraduate of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State Nigeria. Seriously taking life easy, with Nonso life is all about giving it a laugh. Missing Credits from our first issue: Subysinem: Photographer of our cover girl Arthur Obika: Our most appreciated photographer for the events - Igbo day in London www.enugustatedirect.com Chinedu Okpara; NG Photography : Also contributed to the photographs on the Igbo day event for our first issue. We are most grateful to you guys.
Creativity. Entertainment. Black
C.Hub