Issue 3 by KADE CULTURE

BLACK CHRISTMAS ISSUE Kade Culture 2019

Cover Picture Prince Galalie KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

CONTENTS

14 VISUALS BY NAKHEDI

RUVIMBO MARIA

Photography | “ My brother is my biggest role model.”

PR Manager | “I feel most confident when my natural hair is out.”

PRINCE GALALIE Music Guru | “I’m just a guy from Harare trying to bring a win for my people one love.”

THIS IS THANDIE

SIR HARRISON III

EBBIE KAYLA

Creative Producer | “I would love to be as successful as Oprah.”

CEO Vectrixandco | “Clothes are not necessarily

Hair & Beauty | “My vision for Echo Beauty is to expand the brand.”

about brands but can aid to boost the confidence of their wearers.”

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

EDITOR | BLACK CHRISTMAS ISSUE 3

ade Culture Issue 3 features Prince Galalie the music guru as our front cover. I met Prince a couple of years back through our mutual friend and photographer Zavon Miller. At that time I didn’t know that I was breathing the same air with someone as talented as Prince. Fast forward years later, here we are and his the front cover for Kade Culture. It’s fair to say that God does work in mysterious ways. Beatrice C and Samantha Mutongi, thank you for making sure that the photoshoot was a success and all the shiny sweat was wiped away. Of course our amazing photographer Zavon Miller, who is constantly delivering the best images issue after issue. Tapiwa Mugabe thank you for your continuous support. My favourite part of this issue was listening to Samthing Soweto while I was editing. Thanks to an old friend for introducing me to such good music. Isphithiphithi album by Samthing Soweto, definitely recommend. In this issue, we asked all of our features similar questions so that we could share their different reactions. We really wanted to avoid the question and answer - as per previous issues. We wanted it to be simple and straight to the point. Producing this issue has been very challenging. I somehow became sick with a mysterious illness and barely had time to focus and plan this issue with the vision I had in mind. I just kept telling myself that, if I didn’t do it then no one else was going to get the work done. Thank God for giving me strength and a supportive network around me to keep going and finally having this Christmas issue ready and on time. Special thanks to my mother and family for keeping in positive spirits and motivated. Just to name a few Prettie, Tawanda, Mr. Mash, Simply Shingi, Carl, and Fitness with Natalie - thank you for pushing me and the ideas you give me to keep the brand alive. Above all, I hope our readers enjoy this Christmas Issue which features a lot of gifted and talented black creatives. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and may the New Year of 2020 bless all of us with our heart desires. Cheers to many more features and Kade Culture memories. Thank you for your support!

C ONNECT WITH K ADE CULTU R E!

@KADECULTURE

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

“This year I’ve been slightly naughty but nice and hopefully Santa will surprise me with something everlasting.” KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Cleo Make Up Artist | cleotilda93@gmail.com

o far, my journey with makeup has been exciting, exhausting, incredible, and challenging. As much as it sounds a little long, I wouldn’t change the way the journey is going. The challenges and the exhaustion are there to make me remember that success doesn’t get handed to anyone on a plate. When I got my first booking and how much the client loved the result - confirmed to me that this is it, this is my calling - best memory so far. I feel most confident when I have been given a very challenging look to create and when I give my clients the mirror they smile when they have that first glance in the mirror at the end. I’m most motivated when I have finished, and my client’s reactions are either a scream/gasp/shock/teary. This makes me so happy and gives me butterflies in my stomach and I honestly live for that. My role model has always been my sister. I admire the way she’s ambitious, carries herself and goes about life. The biggest lesson of 2019 was learning that ‘Time is precious, don’t waste it.’ That brings me to 2020, where I’m looking forward to pushing and succeeding in the plans I have written down for 2020.

“I’d like to believe I’m on Santa’s good list. I reckon he’ll give me an extra present too.”

@CLEOTILLY|

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

FRANCIS ‘BANKS’ AMISSAH Internationally recognised blogger and founder of Talk Media Ghana.

rancis “Banks” Amissah is a highly recognized Ghanaian blogger, digital marketer, PR, and publicist. He is also the founder of TalkMediaGhana, one of Ghana’s leading online media portal and digital marketing powerhouses dedicated to the promotion of music, events, artists, rising talents, etc., related to entertainment in Ghana and Africa at large.Francis, through diligent work, has had the opportunity of interviewing numerous personalities including Coptic (multi-platinum & #1 Billboard producer for/featuring Nike, Diddy, Notorious BIG, Usher, Gucci Mane etc.), Kwaw Kese, J.Town, E.L, Joel Orleans, D-Black etc. as well as a platform to make significant contributions to sister pan-African brands such as Ghanamotion and ZoneThree6. In a quest to be different and construct a brand out of another, Francis took a very bold step unlike fellow bloggers out there. In 2017, the young budding entrepreneur launched a top-class portfolio website dubbed banksofficial.com, one that aimed to put him at the forefront of affairs by documenting his works, achievements, and clientele.The prominent blogger has since won critical acclaim for such novelty from major players and celebrities in the nation’s industry and beyond. This comes as no surprise, considering the amazing effort he put into crafting his brand.

When do you feel most confident? Whenever I achieve something, I set out to do, or anytime someone acknowledges my work.What keeps you motivated and who is your role model? TalkMediaGhana gets me pumped! I have several role models, but Coptic stands out for me because of how close we are. He’s a father figure and I’ve really learned a lot from him. The biggest lesson of 2019? It pays to be patient. Always. Are you on Santa’s list; have you been naughty or nice in 2019? Ha-ha, I think I’d be number one on that list. I’ve been nice all year round and Santa knows. What are you most looking forward to in 2020? Big things regarding my brand. But most importantly, the gift of life, good health, ample strength and God’s endless favor upon me and my loved ones.

| @1BANKSOFFICIAL

How would you summarize your journey so far in building your brand? Frustrating, yet satisfying. Good things don’t come easy, they say, and my journey so far is a testimony to that fact. The best memorable experience on your journey? The day I officially launched TalkMediaGhana.

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

NHOYA-RUTHLYN Fashion Model |

am a 19-year-old model based in Ghana who likes to bring ideas to life. My obsession with arts and creativity has led me to be a fashion model and content creator. The journey hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always been easy, but I feel like things happen at the right time, so I never give up. Despite the journey not being easy, I continuously work hard to build up my brand and not be weak. I have full control of combining my education with modeling and I do not limit myself as I am always a step ahead to learn and meet other people. My most memorable experience in 2019 was being inspired by my role models and my best motivation is the river, which I learn a lot from. I say the river because, it moves every minute, second and hour - even though it faces obstacles that hinder its flow.Â 2019 has taught me to listen to my inner self and doing what my heart wants. As for the year 2020, I am looking forward to becoming one of the best models in Africa. My biggest achievement will be for my hard work and craft to be noticed and appreciated.

| @IAMODELO_NHOYA

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

BY NAKH E D I @ IT SNAK HE DI BT W WWW.VISUAL SBYNAKH ED I.COM

VISUA L S 14

he journey of building the brand Visuals by Nakhedi has been very challenging and not easy and to stay motivated every day is even harder. Plenty of good memories have been made and so far, the best one is flying out to three different countries in a space of one month for work which is something I never dreamed of happening less than a year into my career. I feel most confident when I have taken a loss, for example. Some people see life as a battle, every encounter is a struggle, and if they don’t win – they feel like they have lost. “I believe that a new day brings new opportunities to explore, and if something goes badly today, there is always tomorrow.” This belief has helped me to stay motivated along with having a positive attitude and staying organized. My brother is my biggest role model. He always believed in me and taught me many lessons that I have applied in life today. The biggest lesson of 2019 for me is to stay organized and to continue making calculated decisions – which allows me to look forward to 2020.

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

CLINTON CZAR

Sartorial Specialist and Creative Director |

ntrepreneur - sartorial specialist and creative director of the fashion label Clinton Czar - a brand that specialises in bespoke luxury fashion. We offer a full range of tailoring fashion services including bespoke designs of clothing; shirts, trousers, traditional wears, and suits. We relentlessly focus on delivering made to measure apparel and tailor our products and services to match the desires of our clients while maintaining concise attention to detail. I have also cameoed in some Nigerian movie and series: The Men’s Club, Assistant Madams. I got interested in fashion because of my aesthetic sense and a keen eye for colour, details, design, and quality. My fashion journey began in high school when I helped a few of my seniors make uniforms and military belts. It was like a place where I found solace and joy, it was fulfilling. Building my brand hasn’t been exactly rosy, there are some days I’m like mehnnn, what am I doing? However, my best experience always happens when outfits are sewn to perfection. There’s this joy that comes when you’re done creating an outfit, the client wears it, they love it. That’s just perfect. It’s really been a journey with lessons and blessings.As an Entrepreneur & fashion stylist, I have always been motivated by creativity, the goal is to be the best, so that keeps me going. My role models would be Oswald Boateng, Jeff Bezos & Tony Elumelu. The biggest lesson of 2019 - Life goes on, no matter what happens keep on moving. Consistency is key.This 2019 I am on Santa’s list; I’ve been a very good sport. In 2020, I’m looking forward to growth, reaching a larger audience and clients. That’s more work, you know. Making people feel confident, bold and loved in their Clinton Czar outfit.

| @CLINTON_CZAR 16

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

RUVIMBO MARIA | BLACK GIRL STAN @RUVXMBO

y name is Ruvimbo Maria. I am a freelance PR Manager, Writer, Singer-songwriter and co-founder of A is for Activism - a Birmingham based book club and community organisation founded upon values of humanity, community, love and the desire to learn and share knowledge. I wouldn’t say I’ve been on a journey towards building a brand. I’ve been trying to find my path, to live purposefully and find ways to express myself creatively. That journey has been arduous but also rewarding. I’ve fought and I continue to fight against self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and external pressures to have it all together.

The best memorable experience on your journey? It’s difficult to choose just one memorable experience. I have been blessed enough to travel and create unforgettable memories but I can tell you my best experience this year has been performing with Mutsa (the other half of our duo). I’m in a singer/songwriter duo called K-Mu x Ru. We had the opportunity to perform as part of the Bass Festival in Birmingham earlier this year. We were on a line-up with incredibly talented musicians we love and respect. We managed to get through it and deliver a decent performance. When do you feel most confident? I feel most confident when my natural hair is out. That’s when I feel most at home in my body when there’s no embellishment. What keeps you motivated and who is your role model? My role models are the powerful women around me. I am surrounded by incredible women of integrity who are full of love and life, they inspire me to be a better version of myself every day. The knowledge that I am destined for greater motivates me. It’s a magnetic pull that keeps me moving towards my purpose. The biggest lesson of 2019? This year, I’ve learned that the only thing stopping me is me. It’s only the fear of success and lack of discipline that’s in between the life I’m living and the life I’m destined to live. I have learned to move with the fear and not allow it to cripple me. Are you on Santa’s list; Have you been naughty or nice in 2019? I’ve lived my best and worst life this year. I think l deserve to be on Santa’s list.

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

O U R SI S TERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NET W O R K Founder Kadiann Addman 20

ur Sisters Network is an inclusive community for black women dedicated to supporting professional, entrepreneurial and personal growth. The journey for Our Sister’s Network has been challenging, which is an understatement– doing everything alone itself is a battle of mind over matter. Building relationships, marketing your brand and getting people to believe that you’re genuine and passionate can be a struggle. As of late being hit with some “mystery” illness that has taken everything out of me and having had to decide to take time out for myself, that added another layer but when you love what you do, you make time. The best memorable experience of the journey was launching the Sisters Talk Event. It was so maddening at the planning stage I was nervous I have never single handily planned and executed an event. Everything was not perfect but when it was over it didn’t matter everyone that attended was positively affected. I always feel most confident when my hair is done, and I have the right heels on. Nothing else matters after that I’m here and I’m ready let’s go! My family keeps me motivated especially my children. My role model is Jesus, unconventional answer but there is no flaw there, I can trust what he says he’s an all-around cool dude. The biggest lesson of 2019. You can plan your future as you should - work towards it as you should but things may change in a blink. Have faith it will all still work out, adjust where needed but don’t give up. Also learned the importance of self-care, listening to your body is important, know when to stop. Don’t believe the hype you will not sleep when you die you may die young, sleep now. In 2020 I look forward to healing in terms of my health. Growth in business and finally birthing my God-given gifts and talents it’s my heart’s desire to help other black women where I can.

| @OURSISTERSNETWORK

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

AMANDA NKOMO

Founder of Ngcono Mbowane Foundation |

manda Ngcono Nkomo is currently a fulltime student, model, public speaker, radio host - presenter, an advocate of women empowerment, women’s rights and the support of the girl child. She is also a Seventh Day Adventist and Miss World Zimbabwe UK 1st princess 2017 plus Miss global international Zimbabwe 2019. She is the founder of the Ngcono Mbowane Foundation. A foundation that was set up at the end of last year. The vision is to be able to work, support and provide the necessary tools needed for people to live a stable life - from all walks of life, to be able to make communities stronger our mission is to be able to provide the needs needed for individuals to live such as school supplies, pads for girls, clothing, food and any other need. The first project for the foundation was done in Zimbabwe in January 2019, where they went to rural schools and gave away school supplies and sanitary towels for girls plus a workshop on women empowerment. The second project was done in September 2019, the foundation hosted a girl’s event to empower the young women in Bulawayo to go out there and be better women building better communities. The purpose of the event was to network with the women in Bulawayo who are doing amazing work. During the event - the event showcased talents, presentations, speeches, and so much more. Amanda wanted these young ladies to come and have fun while getting to know important information.fun while getting to know important information. “The journey so far on building the Ngcono Mbowane Foundation brand has been a blessed one with many different challenges. With Ngcono Mbowane Foundation’s journey, we still got a long way to go but currently on the right positive path. My best memorable experience was meeting each child and getting a chance of seeing them. And this to me is one of my most memorable experiences and seeing the love these children give to me is just something so

special. In the last year, I have met so many amazing and beautiful children, teachers, and communities.” Amanda feels most confident when she is surrounded by people who love her when she is doing projects and speaking at different events. This is where she thinks her confidence shines through. “Confidence is something I am still very much learning day in and day out. The more I grow and the more confident I become.” Whats keeps you motivated and who is your role model? I am motivated by knowing that God placed this foundation in my heart to do it and to grow. Also, knowing that the foundation is touching people’s lives in a positive way is very motivating and keeps me pushing forward - wanting to be more and do more. My grandparents are my role models because of the love they have always given me and their faith in God. To me, it is such a blessing to see and having installed in me - knowing that giving love and giving back is so important. What s your biggest lesson of 2019? My biggest lesson of 2019 would be to keep going no matter what others say around you. Be your biggest cheerleader and always remain positive - knowing that the work your doing is from God. 2019 has been a year of growth and a year of understanding more. What are you most looking forward to 2020? 2020 is going to be such an exciting year I can feel it! I’m looking forward too many more projects, events, looking to reach out to more people and cities. The foundation aim, in the long run, is to grow and build more projects all over Zimbabwe, where we stand with the motto My Zimbabwe, Your Zimbabwe, Our Zimbabwe and plans for all over Africa too.

| @AMANDA_NGCONO KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

TWO ZIM GIRLS Bloggers | YouTubers

ow do you prepare yourself for a searching conversation with Two Zim Girls; Michelle Mapfumo (24) and Samantha Mutongi (25)? You don’t. Having recently launched their YouTube channel - Two Zim Girls, these young Zimbabwean women living in the UK are also taking part in the Queen’s Child Project. Their aim is to raise money for young girls in Zimbabwe. Their campaign to help end period poverty is as a passion to them as is their exploration of what it’s like to be a young black African woman living in the diaspora.They are coy and elusive about their Christmas content and I’m dying to find out but they remain moot and tease that it will be real and daring as they are. Not sure what Santa will make of them after our conversation but I can definitely say one of them is naughty and the other nice. I caught up Samantha and Michelle at 10 a.m on a Monday morning and both sound as lively and jovial as they do in their YouTube vlogs or Instagram Stories. Over a conference call, I ask them about a range of topics from their arresting first YouTube post titled, ‘Two girls and lots of cups’, in which the two girls go for cupping therapy. Their Youtube channel is as informative as it is hilarious. From cupping sessions to an ‘ASMR’ video which finds the girls eating Zimbabwean food, the conversation is blistering and sprinkled with enough innuendo to make Russell Brand blush.Their journey to showcase Zimbabwean culture in the diaspora and to bridge a gap between Home and home is a kaleidoscope into how a young generation is stamping their identity without fear or shame about who they are, and for Two Zim Girls, that’s being Zimbabwean whether home or abroad. Despite growing up in England both girls are sure of who they are and all it takes is a few minutes before we are all gasping over their intentions to take on the world.Beyond been two young women ready to make their mark from their red box on YouTube, Samantha and Michelle want to do everything light-heartedly and with an assuredness that a wholesome cultural experience will be had. Their content is not only fun but intentionally created to broaden our views of what it means to be Zimbabwean and most importantly how young black African women see themselves. And for Two Zim Girls, it means planning and organising a weekend getaway to Amsterdam in-between doing a dozen other things. The invitation is open to their friends, acquaintances, and anyone daring enough to explore life outside

the confines of tradition. For these two eagles eyed women the world is theirs to wonder and their roots to home are seen in their aim to deliver sanitary aid to disadvantaged girls and women in Zimbabwe’s rural areas who are unable to afford sanitary products and essential personal hygiene products through a GoFundMe. Already amassing a following back home, the girls tell me most of their views come from Zimbabwe, a nice way of knowing you’re headed where you are destined to go. Two Zim girls are both sides of naughty and nice and I hope Santa has the right pressies for their stockings this year!

| @TWOZIMGIRLS KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

PAPA HARRISON INDOME Vectrixandco CEO & Creative Director |

’m Papa Harrison Indome - Sir Harrison III, CEO and Creative Director of the luxury fashion brand and creative development company Vectrixandco Est 2012. At Vectrixandco we believe that everyone is entitled to experience the various luxuries in life. With respect to clothing, the brand pays attention to detail and sorts the finest of materials to produce clothes and accessories. I also develop styling ideas for both photo shoots and music videos. Thus, I’ve worked with musicians like Gemini, Edem, ATL Crew, Bisa Kdei, Ayat, Offei to name a few.Early 2019, I released a few songs under the name Visionary, these songs are made with my brand in mind thus promoting the brand through music and videos. Currently working on a project called Frequencies, Music for healing. The final project would be ready in 2020. In 2018, I started in on a different aspect of Vectrixandco; a creative design that includes graphic design for music artistes and corporate organizations. This included logos, souvenirs, event-related artworks and other forms of design. This is currently my focus.

My most memorable work experience would be during pent hall week in March 2017, where we converted a metro mass bus into a boutique. It totally was an awesome experience. I realize I feel most confident when the fit is right. I believe that clothes are not necessarily about brands but can aid to boost the confidence of their wearers. You don’t necessarily have to wear extravagance, be poised and confident about yourself. When the idea of what you’re wearing is exceptional, when the fit of your clothes is right and when the colours pop and you know you’re just on point.I’m inspired by the things I see around me and my desire is to make things better. The world can be made a better place through fashion and design and I want to help and grow in that development. 2019 has been an amazing year and with it, I’ve learned a lot, mainly that I should put God first and everything else will follow. In 2020 I’m looking into creating a foundation for young ones to create a world for themselves with their skills in the fashion and creative industry.

| @VECTRIXANDCO

“

I guess I’ve been a good boy this year, Santa should get me a Mercedes Benz GLE 63s ready.

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

RVGER Nigerian born and raised - Rosemary Oboh is the founder and creative director for the RVGER streetwear brand in Africa. She moved to Accra, Ghana to study Informational Technology and growing up Rosemary always knew that she was going to get involved in fashion or art, because of her love for clothes and being a fashion head. Her desire to make dope pants and t-shirts drew her into fashion and art, eventually, it became something she could not control as it was part of her.

was in my 4th year when I founded RVGER. I sort of was like in a dark place at that time because of College stress and difficulties. But I knew I had to pull through because I’m the type to always want to come out the best in whatever I do in life. No matter what it is I don’t believe in failure, I always work hard to be the best at what I do. I believe in life you must work hard for what you want. Be a go-getter, spread love and above all believe in yourself. When I decided to put out my brand, I wanted a name that would describe me, my lifestyle and my believes. RAGE was the only thing that came to my mind. I’m a real-life RAGER in the sense that I never want to fail, I always channel all the anger I’m feeling at different points in my life and just turn it into something creative, beautiful, amazing, and turn it into ART. To different people, RAGE could have different meanings. So, I turned the A in RAGER upside down and made it RVGER and that was how RVGER was born. The brand RVGER stands for all the young people that think their voices can’t be heard because we don’t follow what the society expects of us, we want to break rules and make a difference. We want a better life for ourselves, not the regular life everyone expects us to live. The brand represents the young ones that would strive and do anything to get to their goals in life – fighting for their future and still remember to spread Love. RVGER is a movement for young fighters that believe in their ART and their CRAFT. I just want to put a streetwear brand in Africa because Streetwear fashion in Africa is so underrated. I want to make a difference and I’m just getting started though. The latest collection for RVGER is called Collection One with 4 graphic t-shirts designs with different phrases including Legends, Lets RVGE, Emotionally Unavailable and Pink Matter. This collection is currently selling nationwide. My latest project The Heart Full of RVGE Summer Collection launched this summer of 2019 and I’m currently working on 2 designs right now which are set to drop this month of December for the festive season. The new collection features a graphic tee called prayer which describes the bridge between African culture Art, plus hand-painted denim pants made by my creative colleague Casmirhero. In 2020 I’ll be working on more collaborations with other streetwear brands in Nigerian and Ghana, as I believe so much in togetherness and unity.

| @RVGER__ KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

yem CEO! What inspired the name NYEM? The name was inspired by my grandad. When I was younger, I had the nickname Nyembesi which was given to me by my family. Nyembesi means tears in Ndebele. So, I put two and two together since I was starting something to do with eyes - I thought how ironic that tears come from your eyes, so I just shortened it and took Nyem eyelashes. How do you priorities’ being a student and an entrepreneur? Being a student while trying to run my business is very difficult because sometimes I’m on placement and my hours vary so if I’m doing a 9-to-5 week, I can only see people after five which makes it difficult for me as I will only be able to only do one person a day but weekends are okay. Another thing is the equipment that I buy is so expensive it’s a bit difficult sometimes trying to pick between spending the money that I’m making for my eyelashes on myself or buying equipment for my business and usually the eyelashes win. What makes your brand different from what’s already in the community? I think my brand is different because not a lot of young people are eyelash technicians which means that the market is very open. I used to sell eyelashes like the stick-on ones, but I stopped when I learned how to do individual lashes. Individuals are very hard – my first set took me four hours. Another thing that makes me unique is the niche in the black community as not many people are Iash technicians. If you go into the beauty world a lot of the women that do it are the white majority. So, it’s nice to be a black girl doing something that’s a little bit different.

NYEM CEO 30

Youtuber | Eyelash Technician

As a young Zimbabwean in the UK, what do you think can be improved in the community to make it better? I used to be very involved with people in the Zimbabwean community. But recently I had to cut ties with a lot of those people - just purely because in order to elevate sometimes you’ve to let go of the old and allow new things to come in.

just feel like a lot of the people in the Zimbabwean community are a bit judgemental and for your own sanity sometimes you’ve to let go of those people in order to progress and understand who you are as a person rather than what people think of you, so it’s best to step out. I mean there are some lovely people in the community but there are also some wicked people that want to see you fall but don’t help you get back up. They just constantly chatting rubbish but claim to be your friend and then when they are doing this rubbish they say “Oh we are friends I was just telling you the truth,” but the relationship is focused on bringing you down. Why would you try and put your friend down or a fellow member of your community down and yet it’s so difficult to give compliments. I hope the community changes and we become better people.I think if people focus more on helping others rather than beating them up, the Zimbabwean community will be a good community. As a newly YouTuber, how do you make your content engaging and different? It’s hard when it comes to trying to do content on YouTube because a lot of people have started doing YouTube which has created a competitive market and when you’re talking you must make it relevant and interesting. It’s difficult trying to come up with new topics because you don’t want to be this person that’s just copying, you want to be individual and be taken seriously. That alone is very difficult and as for me I usually Google ideas or ask my friends what they want to see. My friends think I’m quite interesting, I don’t think I’m very interesting, but they love it and I haven’t been on YouTube for a while, but people just always ask me when my next video is coming out. What are your favourite go to go beauty products? My favourite go-to products right now are “Elf” make up products. They are so cheap, and you will look like a snack minimally you don’t even need to use a lot and it’s not expensive. I think their foundation is like £8 and it gives full coverage it’s amazing seriously. I would also recommend the real techniques beauty blender; it’s the bomb and it blends so well. Which Zimdancehall artist relates your personality and why? I would say it’s Killer T. He is an epitome of Zimdancehall for me, I can relate with him because he’s just a vibe like he is happy and doing what he loves to do. He’s like a typical Zimbabwean Guy he just cuts his hair off

and goes blonde. Also, as an artist, his music is just a vibe and that’s just me - I love a good time and so does he. What do you think about choosing your career over a relationship or love? When it comes to choosing your career over a relationship, it depends with what kind of relationship it is - if it’s my mother I would have to definitely look at my career and ask myself is it worth the risk of losing my mother over my career because you only get one mother. On the other hand, when it comes to a boygirl relationship I would honestly no offense dump my boyfriend for my career simply because it is my career. Men are selfish, I’m sure my boyfriend if he had to choose between his career and me – he would probably leave me. A career is a stability there is no job worth losing because of love especially when it’s in your chosen field you worked hard for and you lose it because of a relationship. I have worked so hard at university and I’ve not had the easiest time. So, there is no way I would jeopardize all my hard work and all the nights I’ve cried when I was struggling for someone because of love. I’d never limit myself because of love or relationships even with friends like no it’s never worth it. Define your keys to success and how do you cope under pressure? My keys to success would be to wake up every morning and go to work - love the job that I do. I think that if you spend the majority of your time at work you should at least love going. Another key to success is just happiness in general when you’re happy you will go above and beyond for yourself. Words of encouragement to other upcoming YouTubers and entrepreneurs? Never give up on yourself because it’s so easy to wake up and think you know what - I don’t want to do this anymore. It’s so easy to just wake up one day and be like this is not for me or because no one is watching my channel let me stop but remember that persistence is key and always keeps at it. it’s so hard for so many people in the industry but never give up on yourself that’s one thing I would say and trust God in the process, because God is so big and he can do miracles - you can be on 10 YouTube views one week and the next week you could be on 1 million because of God. Never limit God!

| @NYEMCEO KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Ebbie.

Make up Artist | Hair & Beauty 32

bbie Kayla Tigere mostly known as Ebbie Kayla, I’m 22 years old and in my final year at university studying Events Management. I’ve always had a love for beauty and events, when I was a young teenager, I would spend hours watching beauty videos on YouTube and I would practice different looks on myself. It was when one of my friends asked me to do her makeup and that was my first time doing makeup on someone, she loved it and she encouraged me by letting me do her hair and makeup every time she had an event to attend. And I was honored to style her hair on her wedding day, from that, I then added wig services to Echo Beauty. Other people that saw her makeup would also ask me to do theirs as well and from doing that Echo Beauty was born. I came up with the name Echo Beauty because I wanted my brand to be broad - hair, skincare, makeup, and everything to do with beauty, hence the name Echo, I didn’t want my name to be one the front of the brand because I wanted to focus on every other woman and not just myself. I was very hesitant starting Echo Beauty at first because I always told myself; “There are so many makeup artists and hairdressers that are so much better than me.” But so many people encouraged me including my parents - that’s when I got the motivation to do more. My whole brand is all about simplicity, simple is best and little is more. I want to empower every woman to be at their very best and to be confident in their own skin. You don’t need a hundred layers to be beautiful, it’s little makeup to enhance the beauty you already have. My vision for Echo Beauty is to expand the brand into an events company that offers beauty services. I’ve had the best memories throughout my journey but the best one has to be the time I had my first makeup class, it was during a Ladies Brunch in Atlanta that was hosted by my mother and she gave me the opportunity to share my creativity with other women on a bigger platform. I was invited to two other events after that and this is something I really appreciated

because other ladies also want me to share what I do with them. From this, I was able to get more exposure and I also discovered that makeup brings women together, sharing advice and beauty secrets could help build relationships.The biggest lesson that I have learned is that YOU must understand your abilities and only YOU can determine your success. It’s so easy to feel discouraged especially when you feel as if other people in your field are doing much better than you are. Everyone’s road is different, if we all use the same road then we won’t discover other roads. My biggest role model is my mother, as cliché as that sounds, there’s no one I look up to more than my mum. She has taught me to work hard and to inspire to be the very best version of myself. In 2020 I want to focus more on building my brand, the university has always been the one thing that takes up a lot of my time, trying to keep up with Instagram, course work and going to work is something I’ve had to do for a while now. However, I thank God for taking me this far and after university, my biggest goal is to finally expand Echo Beauty. I’m looking forward to meeting more people within my field and growing as an individual.

| @EBBIEKAYLA_ | @ECHOBEAUTY

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

@W TF IGO P O D

WTIGO PODC AST

nfiltered – Unbothered - Unheard. It’s time for a different perspective. A biweekly podcast where we blow the lid on WHAT THE F**k Is Going On.

The “What the Fuck is Going On?” podcast is a new biweekly series fronted by Abigail Opiah, Lola Arisekola, and Samantha Tapfumaneyi. Described as a timely blend of ‘unheard, unbothered and unfiltered’ perspectives, WTFIGO (as more familiarly known amongst its listeners) both challenges and communicates some of the most contentious themes and topics facing our generation all with an added dose of personality, cheek, laughter, and for lack of a better word sass. Advocates of inclusion, empowerment, and discussion - the three young black female journalists at the helm of this series not only invite listeners to participate in their biweekly debate but encourage their listeners to use the platform as an opportunity to tell their own stories. This can be heard in past episodes were we looked at mental health in the black community, the struggles faced by career women and societies pressures to settle down and start a family, the black travel experience, micro-aggressions in the workplace, the black girl university guide, the hot girl summer review and our favourite episode to date-Interracial Relationships: Love or Trend. This podcast is geared towards a female audience between the ages of 18-34. Though this age gap is big we sit right in the middle, so we are able to have the big sister tone for our younger listeners but also ignite dialogue and get advice from our older demographic as 24 and 25 years old’s. We are far from perfect and still figuring out life so we look to our older listeners to share their life experiences with us. This was extremely powerful in episode 3 titled: Can Women Have It All - as new graduates who are very ambitious, we started

off thinking that you had to pick one or the other but after recording the podcast and involving our listeners some of our views about a successful career and having a family drastically changed. Utilising our collective experiences within TV - BBC, Channel 4, ITV, Channel 5, Sky News, CNN, NBC, the WTFIGO podcast combines documentary and short film with podcast laughs providing a fresh and exciting hybrid of the things you want to hear and the faces we need to see! The biggest lesson of 2019 - friendships are born in a million different ways, and all good friends strive to achieve the same goal: to be a source of love and support. Finding a true friend feels like a gift that keeps on giving, even when they are thousands of miles away. Through stressful classes, figuring out a career, and inevitable breakups, your best friends have been there. You will lose some and that’s fine. Everyone has their time and season in your life but hold tight to those forever friends.The most memorable experience so far has been watching our listeners go up! We didn’t think anyone would listen but every episode our audience keeps growing. And we now have listeners in every continent. That is mind-blowing to us because we don’t know anyone in Oman or Macedonia, but we have listeners there. In 2020 we are looking forward to watching our podcast grow that’s all we want. More listeners and more amazing guests. Growing as a brand - becoming one of the best podcasts out there.

| @WTFIGOPOD

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Thandie. Blogger | Model | Creative Producer @THISISTHANDIE

BFI creative producer and the road to becoming UK’s first black woman to produce a Sci-Fi at just the age of 21. Thandie went to University at the age of 17 years old and has always had a passion for telling impactful stories and making a name for herself in the media industry. Besides being a creative producer, she has been perfecting her craft when it comes to modeling – building her portfolio for the last 3 years. Building her brand started at the age of 17 years old – “I just wanted something big for my life and made a decision to go to University and I got an unconditional offer, which just confirmed to me I was heading in the right direction. I remember my dad telling me to be extra-ordinary and I knew that meant going the extra mile in whatever I do in order to succeed. It meant pushing the boundaries, overcoming challenges and that started with selfbelief. The journey hasn’t been easy. There have been testing moments, but I have learned to believe in myself- without self-confidence I can’t conqueror anything and I want to conquer the world.” On her journey so far, her best and proudest memory was having her own film The Redefinition of Us being played at the cinema. “The meaning behind the film, the sweat, tears, weight loss, and stress I went through making this film was all worth it. Just sitting down in a cinema filled with people watching a movie you directed was just mindblowing and a childhood dream come true. More so because of the trials and tribulations, it took to make it and the film just makes me cry every time I watch it because it’s so impactful and I’m like damn I did that.”

the inside and when I walk, I’m Naomi working it. And that no one can tell me anything.” We asked Thandie what motivates and inspires her, and she said; “Every morning I have to remind myself why am I on this earth. I’m so glad at the things I have gone through because my past motivates me to be great. I now look at things like “Can I control this?” No? Move on.” That way I just focus on moving forward and doing what I love. My role models are Oprah, Maya Angelou, and Beyoncé. The women behind and in front of the lens. I would love to be as successful as Oprah, creative in my poetry like Maya and my films are inspired by visuals in Beyoncé music videos: the voice for many black women.” Her biggest lesson of 2019 was knowing your worth. “Since starting this blogger journey (oh yeah I do blogging too) I feel like brands use influencers for free promotion but I don’t seek any validation, if you come to me it’s because you liked what I already possess therefore I don’t need you to give me ‘exposure’ because I know what I am doing and you better recognise my worth and the value I bring because I do. “Another film from Thandie will be coming out in 2020 – Film Circuit and the launch of her own show – might be a talk show or runway, could be both. Santa put Thandie on your list as she has been a good girl this year of 2019.

| @THISISTHANDIE

Thandie is most confident when she walks - not just any walk but that Naomi Campbell walk. “When I do my walk. I don’t know something about modeling just makes me feel amazing on

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

U NIQUE

J Unique is a self-taught person who looks at the big picture with an open mind and always wanting to explore everything. Always investigating and uncovering what is no longer taught. For Dj Unique it has always been a choice between music and football. Most memorable moment so far for Dj Unique’s has to be the Davido’s 30 Billion Concert in Birmingham, United Kingdom. DJ’ing in front of over 5 thousand people was an experience for him not to forget, and this has given Dj Unique more confidence in what he does..

@DE E JAY_UNIQUE _ENT _

Where he comes from is what motivates Dj Unique, the desire to make a difference and understanding that anything is possible with God. When it comes to role models - his father is definately one as he is hard working plus the love he has for their family is undeniable.

“2020 I’m looking forward to bigger and greater things. I have a few projects I’ve been developing, and I cannot wait till they are all done. I’ve been nice I’m definitely on Santa’s list.”

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

NOMMIE |

rom Amapiano to RnB cuts that sound like joints that would make it on a Beyoncé album, Nommie is set to release her debut EP, Uncuffed. A blistering 5 track offering with enough variety to redefine the playlist era. Nommie’s new EP which features an all in-house production, tailormade from the bottom up. From writing lyrics and working with her long-standing producer, she’s offering Uncuffed. The title she states comes from a sense of blooming into who you have always known yourself to be, and for Nommie that’s a songbird. On Uncuffed, Nommie spreads her wings enough to show us how colorful and multi-talented she is. A child of music, born into it and pursued by it as much as she has strived to fulfill her self defined potential, she has music in her heritage stemming from her Ndebele background and growing up surrounded by music. There’s a song for a myriad of emotions’, for every situation and that’s where Uncuffed finds Nommie. She is accepting her ‘calling’ to music and she is a storm brewing, facing the industry head-on and determined to show the world that a single mouth can hold a thousand songs even in different languages.

A SONG BIRD UNLEASHED

Date of EP release, January 2020. | @NOMMIEOFFICIAL_

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Front Cover Feature |

Prince Galalie Music Guru | Precision Sound | Sound Architect

“Always believe in yourself. There will be sleepless nights; friendships and relationships get strained, but when you have a vision bigger than yourself, you’re doing it with purpose.” Creative Director Samantha Mutongi | Photographer Zavon Miller

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Front Cover Feature |

In our feature interview, I speak to Prince coming off working with the kings of the UK wave scene, D-Block Europe. We discuss his life as a music guru and how he so effortlessly navigates the burgeoning black music scene. We discuss his creative process giving you insight as to why he is regarded as a household name responsible for chart-topping musicians and a mentor for young up and coming artists. He is a music mentor with Levi for young artists where he teaches songwriting, and also engineers recording sessions. Currently wrapping up the third EP in the ‘Hennessy & Pain’ series, producer, singer, songwriter, engineer, and all-round ‘Music Guru’ Prince Galalie takes time out to give me an interview before flying abroad got a weekend getaway. His first introduction to music was at the age of 13, his cousin showed him the process of making a song from producing a beat to writing lyrics. Intrigued by what saw he decided to start making music. Growing up he went to a youth club where he began to rap where he became part of a collective, the genre of music they created was ‘UK Gospel Grime’. When the group dissolved he lost his passion for rapping and found love in producing.

Music Guru - “Work, work, work” “I work, work, work.” Not a reference to Rihanna but you get the picture of a man who has a map and is making progress towards his destination.

“BACK AGAIN! SHINE AGAIN!” 44

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Front Cover Feature |

“I’m always naughty but nice so I am definitely at the top of Santa’s list.” 46

An 8 a day | A beat a day Prince has come a long way and has no intention of slowing down. He reveals how working hard and being determined to succeed on his terms has led him to be who he is and by the sounds of it, there’s no slamming down on the breaks or taking breathers when there’s a dream to fulfill. Having worked with household names including D Block Europe as their main engineer and as executive producer for a number of years. Some of his international works include Offset, Lil Baby, Rich the Kid, Iyana, Olamide, Christopher Martin and many more. Artists he has also worked with include Wretch 32, Corleone, Emeli Sandé and Stormzy to name a few.

The studio is where Prince feels most at home. “Educated guesswork” Is how Prince best describes the process from making a sound and turning it into a palatable piece of music. From learning how to song write and produce, to learning how to mix and engineer a track, Prince has always been invested in making himself multidimensional when it comes to anything music-related. Ensuring the world knows he is not a one-trick pony, his career so far shows the reward of diligence. “Always believe in yourself, there will be sleepless nights; friendships and relationships get strained, but when you have a vision bigger than yourself, you’re doing it for purpose.” With first audio release self-titled ‘First Day In The Lab’ due for release before the end of the year. The follow up ‘What You Telling Me’ featuring Money Bagz will be out early next year, with a video directed by Paul Whisper and co-directed by Prince Galalie.

To keep up to date with the releases follow @princegalalie on all socials.

| @PRINCEGALALIE KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

Front Cover Feature |

“I’m just a guy from Harare trying to bring a win for my people one love.”

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

MyTinySecret Founded by Ben Diallo |

f I could describe the journey so far as the founder of MyTinySecret in order words, I would say unanticipated. As a visionary, I’ve always dreamt big. Sometimes so big it may even have looked unrealistic to most people, so big it even sometimes seemed unattainable to me. And then Selfdoubt, procrastination and life itself kind of got in the way and settled in. I, fortunately, became homeless at 17. I say fortunately because it opened my eyes and placed me in a position where I have had to see first-hand what life could be like without a vision and turned out it was time for me to stop fearing failure and take a leap of faith. The best memorable experience so far is the making of the brand name - MyTinySecret. I wanted to create a brand that all women could be proud to wear without the sweet girl stereotype - creating a platform where women could meet other ambitious women and interconnect. I wanted to create a feeling of entitlement for all women, and what feels more entitling than a secret? Even more so when it’s yours. Then out of an empty mind, there was “MyTinySecret” and it stuck.

| @MYTINYSECRETUK 50

I feel most confident after I meditate because I can put everything on pause and reflect; it reminds me I can fight through all challenges and fear none. Although I don’t have a role model, I take from the greats but also from my friends and surroundings they keep me motivated with their wise words of advice. But and this comes from the humblest of place, I believe that if you look deep enough; the answer is always within yourself. My biggest lesson in 2019 was patience. This year let’s just say I’ve been human, but mostly good and I hope Santa doesn’t forget my brand-new BMW i8 this year-round. 2020 will be a big year for My Tiny Secret in terms of apparel, modeling agency and the platforms itself because it will flourish and will be out there for everyone to see. I’m most grateful to be able to share my vision with the world.

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

VANNIE KOO TOOR 1956 Luxury is Your Lifestyle, Bespoke is Your Vision

nfluential and progressive VANNIE KOO TOOR 1956 is a UK based luxury fashion house here to reinvent and create a new look in the fashion world. Creating ready to wear, handmade and bespoke garments/accessories. All products are made and designed to fit in with our tag line “Luxury is Your Lifestyle, Bespoke is Your Vision.” Sourcing the finest materials to create pieces that focus on quality, comfort and bringing you that luxurious lifestyle. The name originates from the Founder and CEO Mr. Geovannie Shaw, named after his grandmother (Vonnie) who was born in 1956 which in turn contributes to the name. Geovannie is an Italian name meaning “God is Gracious” (Dio e Grazioso).Our journey so far has been an amazing one from creating the whole concept of VANNIÉ to seeing people wearing our pieces has been a very special feeling, even though we have had ups and downs. Our best experience so far, I would say winning The Best Business Award 2019, and continuously visiting new cities doing pop-ups and meeting new people.2019 has taught me to stay consistent even when I know I’m not up for continuing or pushing forward. I’m just looking to hit 2020 with a bang and continue to bring out new pieces on a consistent basis. Hoping to see a few goals come to fruition and continue to grow VANNIÉ to new heights and levels.

| @VANNIEKOOTOOR www.vanniekootoor.com

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

COCOSCRAVINGS | @COCOSCRAVINGS_21

y name is Chelsea the founder of Cocoscravings, I am currently in my final year at university. The creation of my brand started with my love and passion for cooking. Being at university in the first year forced me to explore being creative with food rather than eating noodles for the whole week. So, after a while, l decided to start my own brand mainly targeted at university students to help them create easy, healthy and tasty meals while balling on a budget. As a university student, it can be hard to find the time to cook new meals everyday especially when you have assignments due or may you be just tired from the university. With my brand, the idea is to make the life of the university student easier by creating simple recipes accompanied by food tutorials and pic-tutorials. How would you summaries your journey so far building your brand? Building my brand has had its ups and downs, but also rewarding. When good opportunities like this feature come along - I feel very lucky with the immense support from my friends, and the love they continue to show me. However, with such a small following on social media, it can be quite discouraging when you try to measure your success in accordance with the followers you have. The best memorable experience on your journey? So, far was when l had people start to request for my recipes and using them to make their dinner or lunch. It was my most memorable experience because l was being given the recognition l had been hoping for, and it was a nice feeling seeing that people were starting to tag me when they made something.

What keeps you motivated and who is your role model? Knowing that anything is possible when you put your mind to it, and things will finally come together at some point, but you must be persistent with your journey. My role model is EatWithArli. Not only is she successful, but she is very motivated and consistent with her baking. For me, she is the person whose goals align with mine, as she also wants to open her own bakery. The biggest lesson of 2019? My biggest lesson of 2019 has been to never stop believing in yourself and to trust in God. Once you lose faith and confidence to accomplish a goal or a task, you will always be doubting yourself and your ability to finish that task. Are you on Santa’s list; Have you been naughty or nice in 2019? I would say, l have been good this year, so l hope to be on Santa’s list. What are you most looking forward to in 2020? In 2020, l am mostly looking forward to more opportunities, creating more lovely recipes, and collaborations with other creatives.

@COCOSCRAVINGS_21

When do you feel most confident? When l am cooking because l am in my own world or zone really. With cooking, it allows me to be creative and improvise mixing ingredients together to see what l can really create. Hence why l love cooking as it allows me to distress, but also to create something l can enjoy. KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

BLAASSOM Making fashion Effortless, Neat and Timeless.

laassom is an extension of us and who we are as people who cultivate their own lifestyle every day in their own image and style regardless of what others think. As a brand Blaassom aims to make people feel comfortable to dress up or dress down even when wearing athleisure. As an athleisure brand, they are unique, and you can easily wear their clothing with heels. Speaking to the designer of Blaassom, her biggest strength is knowing that the brand is unique and has its own different niche to bring to the table - as the styles produced are not those you see every day. Approaching its 1-year anniversary, the founder and Brand Creative Loraine looks back and think about how Blaassom started and she always knew that Blaassom will be more than just an athleisure brand, as she wanted it to have a purpose and an identity. Creating this identity was a lot harder than she anticipated and there have been moments of ups and downs - but always persevered with the gratitude and support from her friends and family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who constantly supported the journey. The biggest lesson for Loraine in 2019 was knowing that it is okay to have moments of weakness and doubt but never let that define you or your brand. Loraine proudly now knows who Blaassom and where the brand is going. 2020 will be an effortless fashion, neat and timeless for Blaassom and for more people to get to know the brand.

www.blaassom.com

KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

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KADE CULTURE | 2019 DECEMBER

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