Village Beat Magazine. April – May 2013 by Land & Marine Publications Ltd.

APR – MAY 2013

VILLAGE NEWS

NEW-LOOK FOOD COURT

PROFILER

It’s just so tasty

CAROL MAYENDE

Senior Accountant at Village Market

FOOD COURT

Where good food meets good music

SOCIAL

RESPONSIBILITY Reaching out to the community

A PUBLICATION OF

Village Beat

April - May 2013

CONTENTS 3 JAMBO

Welcome to the new-look Food Court

Oltre. Paradise, Italian style

You!

4 New Villager

5 Five Minutes with...

6 Village News 8 Profiler

Carol Mayende, Senior Accountant

Where good food meets great music

12 13

Book Worm Reel News

10 Feature: Published by:

THE VILLAGE MARKET

PO Box 100-00621, The Village Market Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2488/90 Fax: +254 (0)20 712 2477 Email: pr@villagemarket-kenya.com www.villagemarket-kenya.com Editorial Co-ordinator: Ann Gitari Sales & Advertising: Janet Mbugua, Damar Padwa Marketing Manager: Dominic Mbugua Asst. Marketing Manager: Leah Munyua Photography: Big Four Photographers Print: Modern Lithographic Kenya Ltd Distribution: The Village Market Designed by:

Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd Suite A5, 1st Floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi Tel: +254 (0)20 374 1934 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ©2013 The Village Market

12 Off the shelf

14 Village Scene 16 Well Being

You can lose it… in nine easy steps

Nairobi summit inspires young people

No more tears, kids – we’re at the mall!

Reaching out to the community

Bunson Travel Services

Sweet smell of successful relaxation

Nkoirero Maasai Camp

What to consider when buying tyres

18 Culture

19 Village Mom

20 Social responsibility 23 Still here 24 Kaya Spa

25 Escape

27 Tyre Tips

28 Village Diary 29 Feel the Love

Valentine joy for lucky Bonus Card members

30 A-Z of Village Market 32 Essential contacts

Welcome

JAMBO!

Welcome to our new-look Food Court

fter a sweltering three months, we can now enjoy the April showers and some bursts of moderate sunshine in between. And in May, gardens will be in

full bloom and full of life. There couldn’t be a better time of the year to be outdoors. The Village Market is your ideal shopping and entertainment destination, and you will be glad to hear that our Food Court is now complete after a couple of renovations. What follows now is a launch so colourful you won’t want to miss it. See press and posters for details. Our regular columnists are back to keep you informed and entertained. We start with our very own Damar Padwa, who has been busy with social responsibility campaigns. Read all about The Village Market’s Valentine’s Day donation to Nyumbani Children’s Home among other worthwhile causes. Dr Komal Shah and Elixir Health keep you focused on your weight loss plan and Amondi Buyu, of Tribe Hotel’s Kaya Spa, explains how aromatherapy helps to heal the body. We welcome new contributor Kamal Kaur, whose hilarious Village Mom column will resonate with many Village Market shoppers. To everyone else who played a role in putting this issue together, we say a big thank-you. Keep reading and tell us what you think of our new-look magazine. You can also get an e-version of the Village Beat on www.issu.com

Ann

Always

Ann Gitari Press Liaison Officer Email: ann@villagemarket-kenya.com

New Villager

Oltre

PArADise, itAliAN style, FOr lOVers OF high FAshiON

airobi’s first high-end, multibrand designer boutique, Oltre, opened its doors last

year, to the delight of shoppers who appreciate luxury fashion. This unisex boutique stocks only the top original designer brands selling on their exclusivity. The ladies’ section is graced by brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino, Roberto Cavalli, C’N’C Costume National, Just Cavalli, GF Ferre, Galliano, Flavio Castellani, Liu Jo and Byblos. The choice of menswear is equally rich, with Canali, Versace Collection, Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and many more on display.

This unisex boutique stocks only the top original designer brands selling on their exclusivity

Store owners Miriam and Roberto

set up the boutique. The Village Market proved the ideal location for their store thanks to its outstanding ambience and fashion-conscious client mix. “Since opening the store we have built an appreciating customer database,” says Miriam. “We now want

wanted to create a luxury destination

to engage in a massive advertising

store’s principal men’s brand – a label

for the discerning clientele, making

campaign that will target those who

that represents sartorial elegance,

Oltre the first of its kind in Kenya.

are not aware of our existence.”

The Italian clothing firm Canali is the

from choice of fabric to stitching. Canali is very much a product for the exclusive international client.

Customers of Oltre are assured of

Collections

VIP treatment from the store’s profes-

“Whenever I went shopping, I couldn’t

every shopping experience fun as well

find original designer collections

as memorable.

sional staff, who are keen to make

that suit my taste,” Miriam explains. “I imagined that there were other fashion-minded people who were equally frustrated. That’s how the idea of opening Oltre came about.” With their well-travelled background and knowledge of style and fashion, it was easy for the couple to

Oltre

Level 2, opp. Grass Roots Tel: +254 734 668460 Email: oltrefashion2012@yahoo.com

Five Minutes With

Five minutes with...

yOu!

About Village Beat

We asked you to tell us what you thought about out new-look

Village Beat is a glossy, full colour, modern

magazine and this is what you had to say:

lifestyle magazine targeting all The Village Market’s shoppers, suppliers, tenants and

commenting via email, Deepak ghosh said:

corporate partners. It’s a complimentary copy

“It just keeps getting better. Thank-you for sharing this wonderful

(not for sale) to all patrons of East Africa’s

publication with us.”

largest shopping and recreation destination. The magazine is also distributed to all guests of

writing to us on our Facebook page, Martin Ptah had this to say about the online version of the magazine:

Tribe Hotel. Village Beat includes a range of up-to-the-

“I love it. This is what we call creativity and being different. I like the way

minute stories about topics of general interest

you flip from one page to another, zooming, quality and speed. Awesome

to discerning, upwardly mobile, fun-loving

guys!”

people who like to keep up with new trends. The magazine covers the latest news from The Village

still on our Facebook page, Nancie wanga roberto says:

Market, giving details of new store openings,

“It’s eye-catching and so modernised. I like it.”

latest products, special offers and events.

Thank-you for your feedback and, as promised, each of our respondents

a print run of 5,000 copies. The magazine’s

is entitled to a lunch voucher worth KES 1,000 from one of our

long shelf life translates into as many as 10

restaurants. You, too, can tell us what you think of our magazine. Your

readers per copy. Hard copies of the magazine

feedback will help us make it even better for you.

are distributed to all clients within the aﬄuent

Village Beat is published bimonthly and has

markets surrounding The Village Market including Nairobi’s diplomatic district and the adjacent business and residential areas. The online version of our magazine is available on www.issuu.com search Village Beat

To advertise with us

Email: pr@villagemarket-kenya.com

Village News Milles Collines to open men’s store Trendy clothing store Mille Collines is set to open a men’s section adjacent to its main shop located right across the Food Court. Mille Collines was born in Rwanda in the winter of 2007 when two Spanish designers, Marc Oliver and Inés Cuatrecasas, decided to pilot their first collection for autumn/ winter 2008 at a workshop in the capital, Kigali. From there, coordinating the work of men’s and women’s craft groups across the country, they adapted traditional techniques to European designs with an African flavour. In the same year, the collection was adapted to the requirements of the Western market.

Opportunity for schools

Mille Collines is an eclectic mix of trend and tradition. The quality of its creations is designed to reflect Africa’s strength and sensibility. Constantly seeking attention to detail, with handmade finishing, the collections are timeless. Mille Collines makes a statement, connecting women to the moment and the fast-changing world of fashion. At the core of Mille Collines is a selected team of tailors, with the atelier situated in the heart of Kigali. All production activities are coordinated from there by specialised handcraft teams. It is also there that the new designs for each collection are created.

The Village Market management is preparing to close down Hi-Tide water park to allow for the construction of a hotel, boutique shops, a parking bay and offices within the complex. Before this happens, the management is allowing schools to take advantage of the water park on a complimentary basis during the week. The International School of Kenya is the first beneficiary of this initiative. The school used the opportunity to raise funds for its athletic track, with parents, students and teachers thronging the venue in March. Contact the recreation department on (020) 7123141 for further information or to book the facility for your school.

News For up-to-date news and information, join us online: Facebook: The Village Market Twitter: @VillageMarket

lAuNch OF New-lOOK FOOD cOurt After months of renovations, the new-look Village Market Food Court is set to be unveiled in a colourful ceremony in April 2013. It has taken a few months to get the job done in spite of challenges such as the heavy rain that pounded the country in October and November. Work on the site nevertheless went ahead as scheduled. The new-look Food Court will have the following features: • New tiles • Ferrari sails (to replace the old parasols) • New water features • New lighting • State-of-the-art sound system • Infrared heaters • New furniture and lounge atmosphere • Better access and ramps for disabled customers • More plants and flowers

necessary to ensure the Food Court rises to match these high standards,” he said.

appreciate the honour, we cannot afford to sit back and let that get to our heads.”

Mr Ehsani also pointed to the Taste Awards in 2011, when The Village Market clinched the award for Best Food Court, as a challenge for the shopping complex to do even better.

The Village Market management thanks all patrons and shoppers for bearing with the inconvenience during the reconstruction period and welcomes them to the official unveiling ceremony to be announced soon. There will be lots of entertainment and raﬄe prizes for the whole family.

“We have come to be known as a market leader in our Food Court design,” he said. “While we

• LED television screens. Managing director Hamed Ehsani told Village Beat the renovations could not have happened at a better time. “A number of high quality restaurants are coming to The Village Market and we found it

Carol Mayende, Senior Accountant

High flyer with a fondness for high heels

Profiler

t can be said that Carol Mayende has had

youth. And as a great lover of the outdoors,

an enviable career with The Village Market

Carol likes to traverse the country on road trips

Management since joining the company

and go on retreats with friends.

back in 2001. She was only 22 then and still in

Born the third child in a family of seven,

college where she was taking a series of CPA

Carol appreciates the close relationship she

courses.

enjoys with her siblings: “We get together at

After successfully passing her job interview, she was appointed as a junior level accountant.

least twice a month,” she says. In the midst of all this, a fashion-conscious

Her hard work, discipline and integrity would

Carol feeds her shoe addiction. “It all began in

be rewarded in 2005 when she was promoted

high school,” she says, blushing, “Since then, I

to accountant level. The new role came with

have always been fascinated with high heels.”

more responsibilities as she now handled the

Today, Carol will wear heels up to six inches

staff payroll and the debtors account. She also

high and not less than three inches in height.

supervised two junior level staff within the

No matter how hard you push her, however, she

accounts department.

is unwilling to reveal how many pairs of shoes

Mandate

she has. At work, Carol shares her accounting and leadership skills with The Village Market’s staff

After a two-year stint, Carol rose to become a

savings and credit cooperative, having chaired

Senior Accountant, yet another docket with more

the SACCO for the past three years. During her

responsibilities and a full supervisory mandate.

tenure, Carol says she has been able to stream-

Carol admits she found her rise somewhat

line the cooperative’s functions. “I strongly

overwhelming. “I had to learn so many things

believe that whoever takes the reins once I leave

in such a little time,” she says. “But I learned to

will have an easy time leading the SACCO.”

deal with the pressure and keep going.” Officer, Deepak Ghosh, kept her on her toes.

Success

Initially she thought him to be very demanding,

However, Carol knows her success would not

but in time came to realise that he was simply a

have been possible without the support of

very disciplined and hard-working man.

her bosses and colleagues, particularly in the

Her boss, The Village Market’s Chief Financial

“It took me about four years to understand

accounts department. “My colleagues and I are

him and I eventually purposed to work with the

like a relay team, with every one of us working

kind of speed and diligence he is known for,”

hard to pass the baton to the other the best

says Carol.

way possible and until the race is over and the

“I had to learn so many things in such a little time.... to deal with the pressure and keep going” This level of discipline has had an impact on

job is well done. I would also like to acknowledge the fact that the company and my boss have been very supportive in ensuring that I pursue my higher studies. I completed my B. com Degree in Finance last year

through the staff training program facilitated

Carol’s personal life. She admits she has learned

by the company and have now enolled for the

to prioritise various activities and avoid distrac-

CFA exams.”

tions while making a clear distinction between her career and her social life. But before you dismiss Carol as one of those

As a parting shot, Carol advises her colleagues to have a positive attitude: “Be a resource to your company and you will grow,”

rigid, boring accountants, she would have you

she says. “Career growth does not depend so

know that she has a life.

much on your previous experience but your

Her time away from the office is spent in

willingness to learn.”

church, serving in ministry and mentoring

where gOOD FOOD Meets greAt Music W

hat’s a great meal

clients coming back to the Food

the Food Court. Some

without some soft music

Court and the restaurants within the

of the best bands in

in the background?

complex.

Nairobi are there to

Bland, I should think. Even while

entertain family groups

at home, I often turn on the radio

Food Court

and bob my head along to the beat.

Entertainment in the Food Court begins

meals. Sunday enter-

When I have guests over and I want to

on Friday. Pianist Daniel Mguga plays a

tainers include Street

impress, I play my favourite album on

fine selection of tunes, old and modern,

Legends, Big Wave and

rotation and sing along.

accompanied by the experienced violinist

Step by Step, while the

whipping up a meal in my kitchen

and friends as they enjoy their favourite

Elijah Owithi. Daniel’s love of the piano

Zimbabwean songstress

meant to be consumed. To quote

is evident in the way he sways to and

Queen Mashie appears

Gregory David Roberts: “Food is music

from as he hits the keys. Together, they

with her Cha Cha Cha

to the body and music is food to the

produce a great instrumental sound to

Band. These live bands

heart.”

put diners in a happy mood at the start of

perform original songs, covers and

the weekend.

a variety of African hits, and it’s not

Good music, like good food, was

With this thought in mind, The Village Market has created a great menu of entertainment that keeps

Sunday afternoons are a full-house affair as shoppers and diners gather at

unusual to see enthusiastic patrons dancing to the beat until dusk.

Feature - Good Food

Café Brasserie Not far from the Food Court is Artcaffe’s Café Brasserie, where clients can listen to smooth jazz on Sunday evenings in the elegant Europeanstyle restaurant with its dark leather couches and picture windows looking on to a charming terrace. Café Brasserie is a romantic setting that brings together sumptuous meals, a

entertainment that includes a cool

great ambience and relaxing music.

in-house selection of 70s music.

Tamambo Bar & Grill

Gigiri presents a ‘Taste of Italy’ evening

Tamambo is one of several restaurants

entertainment provided by Jazzique 5.

in the Tamarind Group. This jazz-

On Tuesdays, from 7.30 pm, Osteria featuring salami and cheese with live Another band, the Limericks, is

themed eatery offers both indoor and

there on Friday with an electrifying

al fresco settings on the third level of

performance of live jazz, blues, vintage

the complex. Tamambo is famous not

soul and pop.

only for its meals and good service which include everything from bands

Special events

to quiz nights. Among the regular

The Village Market often hosts special

acts are Danger and the Crew, Mojo,

events featuring top entertainment.

Ricky na Marafiki, Nina Ogot, Monique

The annual Halloween family party

Kabuye and Acustica.

has live music as well as disc jockey

but also for its entertainment options,

Osteria Gigiri

and video jockey units. Over the years, bands like Stone Cold Sober and the Kalabash Band have kept the revellers

The Village Market is also home to

entertained. The Halloween teen raves

Osteria Gigiri, an opulent and intimate

have been graced by popular DJ and

Italian restaurant with a lively wine

VJ units such as Code Red and Capital

bar. Here, clients can enjoy good food,

Mix Masters.

great value and a superior wine list –

Not far from the complex, the

and it doesn’t take long for the magic

Tribe Hotel also plays host to various

to begin.

events, parties and promotions that

Happy Hour is from 4.30 to 6.30 pm

raise the bar for quality entertainment

every weekday. Osteria Gigiri offers an

in Nairobi. Among the top acts that

evening of special treats and blissful

have appeared at the Tribe are Zak, the Kenyan opera sensation, DJ Cortega and Electrique DJs, violinist Eugina Choi and sensational pianist Herny Wong Doe. So if good food and great entertainment is your thing, look no further than The Village Market. We’ve got exactly what your tongue wants to taste, your ears want to hear and your feet are itching to dance to.

Off the Shelf

BOOK wOrM HOSTAGE: A Year at Gunpoint with Somali Gangsters

THE TWELVE TRIBES OF HATTIE

Author: Sarah Edworthy

Price: KES 1,450

Price: KES 900

In this remarkable book, Paul and Rachel Chandler recount their terrifying ordeal, revealing the inspiring and poignant story behind the dramatic headlines. At the heart of their survival was an unshaken belief in each other and a determination to survive, making Hostage an unlikely love story. For Paul and Rachel, death at times seemed preferable to being separated. Their yacht, ‘Lynn Rival’, was recovered six days later by naval forces, abandoned off the central Somali coast. After the attack, the Chandlers were taken first onto a previously hijacked merchant ship and then to Somalia, where they were held for over a year, enduring threats and intimidation while their captors tried to extort millions of dollars from their family.

A GOOD AFRICAN STORY: How a Small Company Built a Global Coffee Brand Author: Andrew Rugasira Price: KES 1,450

Since it was founded in 2003, Good African Coffee has helped thousands of farmers earn a decent living, send their children to school and escape a spiral of debt and dependence. Africa has received over $1 trillion in aid over the past 50 years and yet, despite these huge inflows, the continent remains mired in poverty, disease and systemic corruption. In A Good African Story, Andrew Rugasira argues that trade has achieved what years of aid failed to deliver and has provided a tantalising glimpse of what African could be. As he recounts the very personal story of his company and the challenges he has faced – and overcome – as an African entrepreneur, Rugasira discusses the barriers that currently prevent fair and equal trade between African and the rest of the world. He sets out the arguments for building a sustainable trade framework and reducing dependency on handouts. And he builds up a manifesto for a revolution in the way that Africa is perceived.

Author: Ayana Mathis

Fifteen years old and blazing with hope of a better life, Hattie Shepherd fled the horror of the American South on a dawn train bound for Philadelphia. Hattie’s is a tale of strength, of resilience and heartbreak that spans six decades. She keeps her children alive through sheer will-power and with not an ounce of the affection they crave. But how do you prepare your children for a world you know is cruel? The life of this unforgettable family is a searing portrait of 20th century America. From the revivalist tents of Alabama to Vietnam to the black middle-class enclave in the heart of the city to a filthy bar in the ghetto, The Twelve Tribes of Hattie is an extraordinary and distinctive novel about the guilt, sacrifice, responsibility and heartbreak that are an intrinsic part of ferocious love.

GOODBYE FOR NOW Author: Laurie Frankel Price: KES 1,350

For every person who just wants to say goodbye, there’s someone else who can’t let go. There is the woman who only wants to yell at her husband for treating her so poorly over the years; or the man who needs his dead wife to remind him where the manual for the dishwasher is and how long to microwave a potato. A heartrending exploration of the nature of live, love, and loss – both real and computer simulated – Goodbye for Now offers a sparkling, modern-day twist on the classic love story. Maybe nothing was meant to last forever, but then again, sometimes love takes on a life of its own.

Books available at:

Westlands Sundries Level 1, Opposite Steers Tel: +254 20 7122437 Email: wsundries@nbi.ispkenya.com

Off the Shelf

reel News G.I. JOE: RETALIATION

THE HEAT

Starring: Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson, Ray Park

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Melissa McCarthy, Kaitlin Olson

Director: Jon M. Chu

Director: Paul Feig

Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller

Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime

Studio: Paramount Pictures, MGM

Studio: Chernin Entertainment

Showing: April 2013

An elite military unit consisting of special operatives known as G.I. Joe, operating out of The Pit, takes on an evil organisation led by a notorious arms dealer.

Uptight FBI special agent Sarah Ashburn is paired with testy Boston cop Shannon Mullins in order to take down a ruthless drug lord. The hitch: neither woman has ever had a partner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or a friend for that matter.

OBLIVION Starring: Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, Andrea Riseborough

PAIN & GAIN

Director: Joseph Kosinski

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson, Rebel Wilson

Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-fi, Thriller

Director: Michael Bay

Studio: Chernin Entertainment

Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama, Thriller

Showing: April 2013

Studio: Paramount Pictures

One of the few remaining drone repairmen assigned to Earth, its surface devastated after decades of war with the alien Scavs, discovers a crashed spacecraft with contents that bring into question everything he believed about the war, and may even put the fate of mankind in his hands.

Showing: May 2013

A trio of bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong.

IRON MAN 3 FAST & FURIOUS 6 Starring: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson Director: Justin Lin Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller

Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Guy Pearce, Gwyneth Paltrow Director: Justin Lin Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Studio: Marvel Studios

Studio: Universal Pictures

Showing: May 2013

When Tony Starkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world is torn apart by a formidable terrorist called the Mandarin, Stark starts an odyssey of rebuilding and retribution.

Agent Hobbs enlists the aid of Dom and team to help bring a rival gang, led by Owen Shaw, to justice. In exchange for clear records, they must put an end to their schemes, no matter how personal the cost.

Watch these movies at:

Starflix Theatres, The Village Market Level 3: Opposite Superbowl Tel: +254 716 883872 Facebook: Starflix Twitter: @Starflix

Pictorial

Village Scene

1 The Village Market’s Press Liaison Officer, Ann Gitari (left), presents a cheque for KES 100,000 to Peace Caravan representatives Daniella Natiyama, Doko Yatani and Sarah Kapune to support the organisation’s peace initiatives in the recently concluded General Election.

2 The Village Market Marketing Manager, Dominic Mbugua,

and Imperial Bank’s Silva Gow present winner Kalpana Patel with the second prize in The Village Market Great Getaway Giveaway festive season promotion. Ms Patel won an assortment of prizes worth KES 300,000 including a stylish Macbook Pro.

3 The Village Market Assistant Marketing Manager, Leah Munyua

(centre), and Imperial Bank’s Silva Gow (left) present winner Mizbah Fazal with the third prize in The Village Market Great Getaway Giveaway festive season promotion. Ms Fazal won an assortment of prizes worth KES 220,000 including a sleek iPhone 5 smartphone.

4 The Village Market Managing Director, Hamed Ehsani (left),

chats with internationally acclaimed reporter and correspondent Donatella Lorch and Kenya Cancer Association vice-chairman David Makumi during the KENCASA art exhibition and charity auction in commemoration of World Child Cancer Day.

5 The Village Market Public Relations Officer, Damar Padwa, presents winner Joe Mugo with the first prize in The Village Market Great Getaway Giveaway festive season promotion. Mr Mugo won a fivenight trip to the Maldives worth KES 800,000 inclusive of meals, accommodation, Emirates air tickets and all taxes plus 500 USD for shopping.

6 Beatrice Thairu (right), from the Rotary Club of Nairobi East, and

Bernadette Ngara, of Fina Bank, share a light moment with other guests during an art exhibition entitled ‘Peace Through Service’ organised by the Rotary Club and the Kuona Trust in support of the Thika School for the Blind, the Korogocho Community Centre, the Makindu Girls’ Centre and the Kajiado Maasai Water Project. The project featured over 40 artists based at the Kuona Trust Centre for Visual Arts.

7 The Village Market Marketing Manager, Dominic Mbugua, and Assistant Marketing Manager Leah Munyua present International School of Kenya students with a cheque in support of the campus’s fifth annual Global Issues Service Summit in February.

8 One of several public art sculptures that will form part of the new-look Food Court.

Well Being

You can lose it… …in nine easy steps

1. Change your attitude

unhealthy foods. Fruit and vegetables

The first thing I say to my clients

are rich in digestive enzymes, so they

when they enrol for a weight loss

don’t put a burden on the digestive

continues to be a priority in the day-

programme is: ‘Change your attitude’.

system. Avoid acidic foods such as

to-day life of many people. The way

Dieting is not a programme; it is a way

white bread, meat and refined cereals

you do it, however, is of the utmost

of life. It is unpleasant to live without

as they are not helpful to the body.

importance. We ought to maintain

our favourite foods and snacks – cakes,

both physical and mental health

chips, etc – for the rest of our lives. But

during and after any weight-loss

how we incorporate these negative

programme.

foods in our diet is the trick. Cooking

ithout a doubt, maintaining a balanced weight or losing weight

Crash diets for two to four weeks

techniques need to be changed so

4. Eat till you’re three- quarters full

This is a very important rule. Never

may help us lose weight and look

we can consume our favourite foods,

eat till you feel you cannot move. It

great, but what is the net result? Once

too. Deprivation of anything eventu-

is important to leave space in the

we’re off the diet, we may end up over-

ally makes us crave it even more; so a

stomach to allow the digestion process

indulging in the forbidden food items

modification of recipes is necessary.

to take place.

2. Snack smart

Golden rule:

and just put the weight back on again – at times even more. Many people think that skipping

Aim for a healthy, satisfying snack such

Chew your food properly.

meals is a good way to reduce calories.

as a healthy bar, dried fruit and nuts

If you don’t eat regular meals, you are

or a cup of herbal or green tea. Thirst

more likely to overeat when you finally

is sometimes mistaken for hunger.

do eat, causing you to maintain or even

Proper hydration improves your

gain weight.

sense of well-being, which improves

without regular exercise. Exercise

your motivation to lose weight. Avoid

boosts your metabolism, making it

drinking water during meals as it

easier to lose weight. Start out today

interferes with the digestion process.

by taking a brisk walk, riding a bike or

Drink water half an hour before or after

swimming. Work your way up from

Email your queries to Dr Komal Shah: info@healthinyourhands.co.ke

Or visit:

Elixir Health

Level 2, Above Food Court Tel: +254 (20) 7120217 Email: elixirhealth@nbi.ispkenya.com

meals or any other time during the day.

3. Go alkaline

Fruit and vegetables provide nutrients that improve your overall health. They can also help you lose weight as they are naturally low in calories, so you can eat more and will have less room for

5. Get moving

It is virtually impossible to lose weight

10 minutes to 40-50 minutes, at least three times a week. Someone who

Instead of

Rather

Refined table sugar

Sweeten with brown sugar, xylitol, fructose, stevia,

molasses, jaggery and dried fruits where practical.

hasn’t exercised for months should not rush into an intense exercise programme.

6. Breath control

Taking long, deep breaths daily will do wonders. Not only does it improve the digestion, it improves mental health

Energy drinks

Use fresh fruit, dates and lemon water to make energy

drinks. Energy drinks are laced with sugar and should

be avoided.

as well. This, in turn, reduces negative emotions and prevents ‘emotional eating’.

7. Write it down

Keep a food diary. All you have to do is jot down what, when and how much you eat in a notebook. A food diary will give you a clear picture of your current

Butter, margarine or Use avocado and tomato paste (guacamole) or make a chocolate spreads

coriander and green chilly paste with peanuts or date

on bread

syrup with nuts or chickpea paste (hummus).

White rice or white

Use brown rice and wholegrain products such as whole

flour products

wheat flour. Use whole food cereals such as muesli,

granola and seed mixes

Fried chips

Pre-boil cut potatoes and brush with a little olive oil or

sesame oil. Place in a flat pan and bake in the oven.

Boiling vegetables

Why leave all the valuable nutrients in the water?

Instead, steam your vegetables or bake them in the oven

Steamers are inexpensive.

Cooking at high

Learn to cook at low temperatures. Heat destroys the

temperatures

nutrients in food. Frying temperatures are usually as high

as 500°C.

Three meals a day

If you’re not involved in heavy manual work, try eating

two meals per day. In any case, we should always eat a

light meal at night.

eating habits so you can identify the changes you need to make to lose weight. Make small changes initially, then slowly work upwards from there.

8. Seek assistance

Many times people on a weight loss programme need professional assistance. At times, you may be starting off with determination and a positive attitude, but gradually losing it somewhere along the way. Hence, professional help is advisable to achieve your goal. Seek advice from nutritionists or personal trainers.

9. Opt for substitutes rather than deprivation

Do not deprive yourself of the foods you like. Substitute the ingredients and modify the way of cooking.

Culture

‘ISK - Empowering students to create solutions for tomorrow’s challenges’

NAirOBi suMMit iNsPires yOuNg PeOPle tO tAcKle glOBAl issues

ver 240 pupils and teachers

one of this year’s CNN Youth Heroes

they intended to do as a result of their

from international schools

of the Year, Justin Bedard, of the Jump

participation in this event.

throughout Africa and

Foundation. There were three partici-

The Village Market was a bronze

the Middle East came to Nairobi in

pants in a Kenyan panel: Vava Angweni,

partner and sponsored the conference

February to participate in the fifth

a fair trade activist and entrepreneur

with 1,000 USD.

annual Global Issues Service Summit.

dealing in fair trade coffee; John Kariuki,

The campus of the International

president of Slow Food for East Africa

School of Kenya (ISK) was a ﬂurry of

and also of the Thousand Gardens in

activity during the three-day event

Africa project; and Samson Parashina,

and the results were inspiring.

an award-winning Maasai environmen-

Keynote speakers were Spencer West from Me to We and Free the Children; Cassandra Lin, a 14-year-old environmentalist from Rhode Island, USA; and

talist. All the keynote sessions were engaging and inspiring.

Workshops Participants also engaged in workshops, simulations, expert panel sessions and much more over the three-day period. The objective was to make young people more aware of pressing global issues and to inspire action in response to these issues. Before leaving ISK, all the school teams created specific pledges about what

For more information, visit: www.aisa-giss.org

Village Mom

Secure shopping

NO MOre teArs, KiDs – we’re At the MAll! Village mum Kamal Kaur appreciates The Village Market security staff who make shopping at the complex a stress-free and enjoyable experience

‘

Muuuuuum, can we go to the play

enough to look out for themselves and

area on the rooftop?’

each other, but it’s always nice to know

‘It’s MAY WE and what happened

to the magic word?’ ‘Muuuuuum, MAY WE go to the play

phone to contact me. Throughout the mini ordeal my son

they’ll be OK when I leave them alone.

kept his cool; but as soon as we were

When they were much younger

reunited he hugged me and burst into

and I would be indulging in a lunch

tears, making me sob as well.

area at the rooftop…. (dramatic pause)

meet-up at the Food Court, I would

It’s reassuring to know The Village

PLEEEASE?’

bring my help along with me to take

Market has well-trained security staff

the kids around the mall. They loved

who don’t just look out for dodgy

held in the car as soon as my offspring

going to the play area designed for

unattended parcels but also keep

realise we are going to The Village

toddlers and little kids right opposite

an eye out our kids in case they go

Market for longer than just the milk

Mille Collines. My friends and I would

wandering.

and bread errands. There will be a

get a table as near to the play area

mini conference in the back of the car,

as possible and have a relaxed lunch

conducted in stage whispers, with

while the kids got together and played

each daring and prompting the other

to their wee hearts’ content. I just love

to ask first.

win-win situations.

This kind of conversation is usually

Before you start thinking I’m some kids, I’ll have you know it’s none of that.

Security

I have instilled it in my kids to ask for

One time, my son wandered off and

permission instead of just wandering

got lost in the mall. Though I had a

off by themselves to have fun while I

slight panic, I knew I would find him

run around like a headless chicken in

eventually thanks to the numerous

tears looking for my precious cargo.

security guards posted all over the

sort of an ogress or too strict with my

Red tape

complex. I have taught my children to go straight to one of these security personnel and ask them for help. My

Once they sort out the red tape with

kids both know my telephone number

me, all is well. It’s a big boon for a mum

– I wish they’d learned their multiplica-

like me to have The Village Market

tion tables in the same manner – and

cater for the kids while I shop. I usually

have been told to ask someone to call

drop the kids off at the play area on

me. Sure enough, when I saw a number

the rooftop with enough money to

I didn’t recognise on my handset I

keep them amused while I do my thing.

knew at once it would be my son. He

The attendants are lovely and keep

said he had looked everywhere for

an eye on all the children despite not

me. When he couldn’t find me he went

being a babysitting service.

to the ‘policeman’ and asked for help.

My kids are old and responsible

No wonder my kids and I practically live at The Village Market.

Kamal Kaur is a mother, unofficial taxi-driver to her two children, self-proclaimed chocoholic, impulsive shopper, media person and foodie. She practically lives at The Village Market and may be mistaken for a fixture near any of the shoe shops.

The ‘policeman’ then used his mobile

Social responsibility NyuMBANi chilDreN’s hOMe Nyumbani Children’s home was founded in 1992 by the Rev. Angelo D’Agostino as a haven to provide solace, love, care and holistic treatment for orphaned or abandoned children infected with the HIV virus. The Village Market management team visited Nyumbani on Valentine’s Day to donate food to the home and spend some quality time with the adorable children there. The Karen home accommodates over 120 children drawn from all over the country and ranging in age from newly born to 23 years old with the number increasing exponentially every year.

reAchiNg Out to the community Today, as a result of research and goodwill, treatment is much more readily available at the home. This has drastically reduced the mortality rate among the aﬄicted children. Nyumbani relies solely on wellwishers, donors and volunteers to allow the home to continue its care for children aﬄicted with the disease. For further information, please contact the Executive Director, Sister Mary Owens. Email: mary@nyumbani.org Tel: +254 734 608 372.

Social responsibility wOrlD chilDhOOD cANcer DAy On 15 February the world observes International Childhood Cancer Day. There is less awareness about childhood cancers in Kenya than in developed countries as many children with cancer present very late with advanced disease. This is due in part to lack of access to specialist care and the high cost of treatment. It is estimated that 60 per cent of children are likely to succumb to cancer in Kenya compared with a survival rate of 80 per cent in the developed world. This figure is unacceptable as 70 per cent of all childhood cancers are curable when diagnosed and treated early.

with over 15 schools to use art as a

the electiONs AND PreAchiNg PeAce

means of disseminating information

There was an unprecedented effort

The Kenya Cancer Association (KENCASA), in collaboration with The Village Market, partnered

to ensure peace during the General

about childhood cancer. The event was geared at raising funds for treat-

companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to joining hands

Elections, with corporate bodies,

ment through the auction and sale of

and supporting the war on cancer.

non-governmental organisations, well-

donated art work prepared by children from various schools.

Also in attendance was 26-year-old Dan Obura, a childhood cancer survivor

The Kenya Cancer Association, in collaboration with The Village Market, partnered with over 15 schools to use art as a means of disseminating information about childhood cancer

wishers and individuals coming forward to preach peace across the nation. As a responsible citizen, The Village Market community added its voice to the peace call with a special campaign that began in November. Working with the Art Community in Kenya and the Peace Caravan, The Village Market held an exhibition and charity auction entitled Club Art. This raised KES 100,000

and now CEO of his own company. His

through the sale of decorated rungus

exhibited in cancer treatment centres

presence was a testament that, with

(clubs) designed by various artists. The

and hospitals as part of the Art for

effective treatment, cancer is curable.

event also presented a platform for

Cancer Caravan.

Imani, yet another childhood cancer

stakeholders to come together, discuss

survivor, diagnosed at the age of eight

and advocate for peace.

Some of the left-over pieces will be

The five-day art showcase was officially opened by chief guest Donatella

and now in her teens, also shared her

Lorch, an internationally acclaimed war

battle with the illness and her joy of

went to support the Peace Caravan

journalist. The Village Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managing

living a cancer-free life.

peace-building programmes before

director, Hamed Ehsani, reaffirmed the

KENCASA is a non-profit umbrella

Proceeds from the Club Art initiative

and after the elections.

body of individuals and organisations run by volunteers at the forefront of cancer advocacy and public education in Kenya. For further information and support, please contact David Makumi, vice-chairman of the Kenya Cancer Association. Email: david.makumi@aku.edu Tel: +254 727 585 336

Still here

Bunson Travel Services

Region’s favourite sales agent is going strong

arlson Wagonlit Travel is a leading

The travel agent was also declared top

travel management company with a

performer on the Johannesburg route in 2010

presence in over 150 countries around

as well as Kenya’s Leading Travel Management

the world. CWT Kenya is independently owned and operated by Bunson Travel Services Ltd in

Company 2010. November will mark the company’s 60th anniversary in travel management. CWT’s services include:

Nairobi, providing flexible travel solutions for

• Corporate air travel reservations and

individual clients and companies.

ticketing

Diligently

• Passport, visa and health requirements consulting and processing • Travel insurance

Over the years, Bunson Travel has continued to

• Airport transfers

serve its clients diligently and has emerged as

• 24-hour emergency assistance

one of the region’s leading travel management

• Car hire

companies. Carlson Wagonlit is the preferred

• Tours (inbound and outbound)

sales agent (PSA) for South Africa Tourism and

• Hotel booking (local and international)

Star Cruises.

• Meetings, incentives, conferences and events

Over the years, Bunson Travel has continued to serve its clients diligently The travel agent is also the GSA for Legend Lodges, Hotels and Resorts in South Africa as well as for Naivasha Villas. CWT Kenya has several accolades to its name including Kenya Airways Top Agent 2008/2009 and British Airways Kenya Travel

• Spa treatment services • Student and sports travel • Travel policy and travel programme consolidation consulting.

Bunson Travel Services Ltd Level 2, opposite Zucchini Tel: +254 20 3876558 or 3860654 or 2221992-4 Email: info@carlsonwagonlit.co.ke Web: www.bunsontravel.co.ke

Agent Performance Award 2009/2010.

Aromatherapy

Sweet smell of successful relaxation By Amondi Buyu, Natural Wellness Practitioner, Kaya Spa, Tribe Hotel

fter long hours of working

disease by assisting the body’s natural

Walter, uses a variety of essential oils

on revenue reports and

ability to balance, regulate, heal and

of ancient scripture. My healing session

budgets, a consistent throb

maintain itself. The oils are referred

begins with a consultation. Using a

in my eyes and a stiff, painful neck

to as ‘essential’ because they are

holistic approach, Walter takes into

remind me that I’ve been sitting far

necessary for the life of the plant and

account my medical history, emotional

too long in one position. My back,

contain the ‘essence’ of the plant. They

condition, general health and lifestyle

or what’s left of it, screams out for a

contain a life force, intelligence and

before planning a course of treatment.

chiropractor and a good massage.

vibrational energy that give them a

than getting enough hours’ sleep. I

They can be inhaled and taken into

Symptons

find that a good intense aromatherapy

the body via the lungs into the blood

My whole person is treated – not just

massage is the one thing that induces

stream. They go directly to the brain,

the symptoms of an illness –in contrast

rest and deep sleep.

crossing the blood-brain barrier. Thus

with the modern trend of treating only

Getting proper rest entails far more

healing power that works for people.

My blissful journey into healing begins with massage using drops of myrrh and sandalwood mixed into the base oil Aromatherapy is the systematic use

originates the term ‘aromatherapy’,

of volatile plant oils known as essential

whereby essential oils can be used

oils for the treatment or prevention of

for therapeutic purposes merely by

disease. It’s a form of complementary

inhaling or breathing their aromas.

therapy designed to treat the whole person and not just the symptom or

Ka ya Spa & Studio

Tribe Hotel Tel: +254 20 7120171/ 7200656 Email: kaya@tribehotel-kenya.com

When good quality essential oils are used correctly, the soothing combina-

My blissful journey into healing

tion of beautiful aromas and massage

begins with massage using drops of

helps to regulate, balance, heal and

myrrh and sandalwood mixed into the

maintain your entire being by working

base oil. Myrrh is extremely potent

with nature and not against it. It’s a far

as a regenerative oil and is known

cry from allopathic medicine, which

to reduce pain. Sandalwood, on the

tends to take the ‘sledgehammer to

other hand, can calm inner turmoil and

crack a nut’ approach.

strengthen physical connection to the

At the Kaya Spa, my therapist,

the presented condition.

psyche. It is an excellent oil to diffuse

Escape

Nkoirero Maasai Camp

for meditation. Next comes cedarwood, the ‘oil of will’. Smelling cedarwood helps to declutter the mind and clarify thoughts. Cedarwood, Walter explains, is highly oxygenating, increasing the

Rustic charm in a tranquil private setting

ffering a welcome atmos-

and with a rustic theme on the inside.

phere of rustic comfort and

These huts range in size and can

leisure is Nkoirero Maasai

accommodate a varying number of

oxygen content of the cells within

Camp, located at the edge of the

seconds. I hardly hear him speak

famous Masai Mara National Reserve.

because by this time I am already

This eco-friendly camp offers an

only 3 km from Oloololo Gate on the

unrivalled Maasai experience in a very

western side of the reserve and 2 km

private setting with a unique choice of

from Kichwa Tembo Airstrip.

floating into ‘la la land’. Onycha, the ‘oil of faith’, is the next addition to this blend. This oil provides antiseptic service to the body and

The camp is strategically situated

African safari options.

is a thick, resinous oil that smells like

Traditional

caramel and vanilla. This oil restores

Nkoirero Maasai Camp consists of

and maintains the elasticity of skin. It is

specially designed African traditional

helpful for releasing emotional traumas

huts, enhanced by modern decor

produces a calming scent. Onycha

guests.

from the brain. Finally comes spikenard, the ‘oil of power’. Spikenard is highly antiviral and powerful in bringing energy required to heal. Needless to say, the night after this treatment, I had one of the best sleeps I’ve had in a long time. I slept through the night without interruption. Now I’m waking up more refreshed than ever before and raring to go again. And, speaking of rest, taking a break after a few hours of work is a good idea, too. But how do you remember to do that when hours in front of the computer can seem like only a few minutes? I use a little reminder program that will pop up a message telling me it’s time to take a break. I also use it to remind me when it’s time

Nkoirero Maasai Camp For further reservations: Tel: +254 708 849200 or 733 800290 Email: info@nkoirero.com Web: www.nkoirero.com

to pack it in and go to bed.

Tyre tips

What to Consider When Buying Tyres By Reema Doshi, PR & Marketing Manager, Kingsway Tyres Ltd

s vehicle owners, we have

the right choice. By stating the make,

some common points to

model and year of manufacture of the

consider regularly for our

car, it will assist them in proposing the

cars. For parts, services and even car

right alternative tyre size.

cleaning, some of the first questions

However, a different tyre size may

are probably what products should

have a wider tread width, which would

I use, why is that better than the

make the car more stable but might

others, is it effective and does it come

reduce its fuel economy.

with a warranty?

Tyre details: It’s important that the

and if good care is taken of tyres , then

tyres selected are compatible with the

they do not have to be replaced for

other factors to consider when buying

weight of a loaded vehicle, as well as

up to three years. It’s worth remem-

or replacing tyres.

the engine capacity of the car, which

bering that lives depend on which

locks in the tyre’s speed index. If these

tyres you fit. Buying sub-standard

tyres for different vehicles. Focusing

two factors are not in line, tyres may

or poor quality tyres compromises

on saloons and 4x4s, each car has a

not function correctly.

safety. Check the market for tyres that

Apart from the initial cost, there are

Type of vehicle: There are different

manufacturer’s recommendation for

Application of vehicle: For cars

give you some warranty, such as the

its tyres. An example is the Toyota IST

that ride on Tarmac roads, the choice

Michelin XM2 tyre, which comes with a

2002 model. The manual recommends

of tyre patterns is minimal. For rally

one-year pothole guarantee.

to either fit 185/65R15 or 195/60R15

car drivers, however, the tyres selected

or 195/65R15. When changing a rim

would have more endurance ability,

imported cars come with winter

to a higher or lower size, this is also

both on and off road. For 4x4s, appli-

tyres. These are designed specifically

mentioned by the car manufacturers.

cation of use matters. A vehicle could

to go through mud and snow and

Alternatively, Kingsway Tyres has this

be for Tarmac, on and off road or just

are not ideal for African conditions.

information and can assist in making

off-road use and each requires a varied

The downside of using these tyres is

tread pattern.

noise, more friction and increased fuel

Technical manager Karim Sumar explains why drivers would not fit

Weather: Many second-hand

consumption. It is important to note that taking care

off-road tyres on a 4x4 that is used

of tyres, so that the tread wears evenly,

only on tarmac (and vice versa):

will make a big difference to safety and

“It’s like wearing gumboots to go tap-dancing!” Some of the disadvantages of fitting the wrong tyre would be rapid tyre wear,

to the tyre’s lifespan. Remember to check tyres regularly to maintain the right pressure, balancing, alignment and to periodically rotate tyres.

uncomfortable driving, tyre noise, increased fuel consumption, and wear and tear of the vehicle parts. Quality: If you’re like me, you look at buying tyres that last longer and won’t fail prematurely or at any sign of bad road condi-

Kingswa y Tyres

Easter special offers available for tyres and batteries

1st Level, next to Tribe Hotel Tel: +254 (20) 7120171 www.kingswaytyres.com

tions. It is a long-term investment

Village Diary

VillAge DiAry

APril Annual Manjano Visual Arts Exhibition 10 to 21 April 2013 Old exhibition hall time: 10 am to 6 pm

A show of paintings, sculptures and mixed media works from established artists and students all based in Nairobi.

Portraits by Bobby Pall Photography Team 19 to 28 April 2013 Old exhibition hall time: 10 am to 6 pm

MAy Curves and Colours 1 May to 10 May 2013 New exhibition hall time: 10 am to 6 pm

Chisel and brush meet in the land of mallet and canvas in an art exhibition by Patricia Njeri and Irene Wanjiru

Nairobi Inspiration Week For more information about any of the events contact The Village Market: Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2488-90 Email: pr@villagemaket-kenya.com Facebook Page: The Village Market Twitter Handle: @VillageMarket Web: www.villagemarket-kenya.com Changes can occur without further notice. Kindly confirm with the Marketing & PR Team for an up to date and accurate status of the events calendar.

23 May to 2 June New exhibition hall time: 10 am to 6 pm

A craft exhibition and sale by Koki Designs.

Harmony in Life Blended 25th May to 3rd June Old exhibition hall time: 10 am to 6 pm

Mirror and glass engraver Edwin Kwalanda returns to The Village Market to showcase his latest work under his brand Kuyanza Glass Art and Deco.

Feel the Love

Valentine joy for lucky Bonus Card members Card No.

Name

Giveaway

BC001418 Electina Wasike

Two nights for two at Maweni Beach Resort South Coast

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Bobby Pall Photography voucher Bartons Gift Voucher Khazana Lunch Voucher

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Bartons Gift Voucher Suzie Beauty Gift Voucher Bobby Pall Photography voucher

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