Elegance Magazine 3rd Edition by Modou Nsz Njie

Elegance January 2013

Publisher’s Letter lives: How big or small a role should our parents play in our relationships and marriages? A case in point is featured in this edition, which makes for a very relatable and interesting read.

We also shine the spotlight on President Jammeh’s 2013 New Years speech, in which he reiterated his resolve to work with the private sector to spur economic growth. These efforts are intended to create a better investment climate for investors and entrepreneurs in The Gambia. Our international outlook remains, as we continue to bring some of the most remarkable icons in the world to our readers. In this edition, we have featured exclusive interviews with stars such as Jim Iyke, a renowned Nigerian artist and movie star, and the King of Senegalese wrestling, Balla Gueye II.

Dear Readers, ICompleting proudly welcome you all to the fourth edition of Elegance Magazine. this edition has been an intellectual labour of love, but the

As always, we have covered all the major events in music, culture, and fashion that took place in The Gambia and abroad. We had a chance to catch up with Gee, one of The Gambia’s most talented and well-known rap artists, who discusses his career and new album, “That Feeling,” which released on December 22, 2012. We have also collaborated with Mr. Never Give Up to supply our readers with motivational quotes. Elegance Magazine also pays a special tribute to a dear brother and beautiful soul, Sailou Jallow, who passed unexpectedly last year. We pray for him and his family. He will forever be in our hearts.

courage and persistence it took to finish it is extremely satisfying. As The Gambia’s premier lifestyle and fashion magazine, the desire to challenge One thing I will never leave out in our editions is to give thanks and praise ourselves and build on our past editions has resulted in our best issue yet. to the Almighty Allah, and to all those people who have supported us in one way or another to keep Elegance Magazine on the horizon of growth. Quite simply, our fourth edition is different. In thinking of the world as a I want to thank my mum for always giving me support, financially and “global village,” we decided to focus on the positive impact that young morally. I would also like to thank my sisters,brothers, family, friends, and Gambian professionals are having both at home and in the diaspora. For well-wishers, as well as all our readers, who I hope will enjoy reading the first time, we have featured a male on our cover; a gentleman by the this remarkable edition. Please don’t forget - you can order Elegance name of Mohamad Edi Faal. Mr. Faal is a young and dynamic Gambian- Magazine on our website: www.elegance.gm. American attorney who practices law in Washington, DC. He also works as General Counsel for Prudent Trust, an investment management firm Since we are in January 2013, I would like to wish all of you a Happy New based in The Gambia. Mr. Faal spent October and November 2012 in Year. Personally, I love this time of year because it is a time for rebirth Gambia, helping Prudent Trust launch in the Gambia’s first-ever escrow and new beginnings. My New Years resolution is to go to the gym more service – an event which we covered in this edition. consistently and set up Elegance’s new offices. I hope all of you have set goals for this year as well. Since the beginning, Elegance has strived to cover stories and people of substance. In this unique edition, we profile four beautiful and enterprising All the best in 2013! women of substance: Fatou Camara , Maizie Blain Deen, Ya Awa Conateh, and Fatou Taal. Chilel Sarr CEO & Publisher Our passion for education has led us to profile another young Gambian academic, Ousman Touray. Mr. Touray has just earned a Master’s degree in Engineering Project Management from abroad and plans to use his Quite simply, our fourth edition is skills and talents here in The Gambia. We have also profiled Regina different. In thinking of the world as Manneh, a Gambian/Senegalese Danish model based in Dubai, and a “global village,” we decided to focus Mark Bright, a former English Premier League star of Gambian descent. on the positive impact that young In addition, we discuss a topic that comes up frequently in many of our

Elegance January 2013

Gambian professionals are having both at home and in the diaspora. 3

Elegance January 2013

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78 Atlantic Road Road, Fajara, the Gambia

CONTENTS 08 My Gov’t will continue to work with the private sector:

24 Young Gambian Gives Testimony

11 My Triple Heritage

36 Over 40,000 people

President Jammeh

13 FIGHTING SEXUAL

ABUSE IN THE GAMBIA

ACCESS BANK APPOINTS NEW MD, HOLDS FIFTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

29 Quotes with hypertension IN gAMBIA

visit the Gambia

34 Prudent Trust

Introduces Gambia’s First Escrow Service

ELEGANCE Do’s & Dont’s

22 My Designs are AFROEUROCENTRIC

How she made it to the runway

What a man can do, a woman can do better

53 How to make your man happy in 20 little ways 54 1st Annual Old School

58 Fatou Camara 60 gAMBIAn celEbrities

26 Gee Talks about his New Album That Feeling

62 Magal Touba

Maizie Blain Deen Architect of new looks

66 Elegance jongama

A Chat with Jim Iyke

68 Thione Balago and Waly Seck Gambia

Attorney Mohamad Edi Faal Speaks to Elegance Magazine

57 JOKES

16 BRINGING HOME A SON OF THE SOIL

ELEGANCE Couple of the year

Reunion Party

Gambia’s former Premier League Star Mark Bright

44 Elegance styles

Encounter with balla gueye II

ATLANTA ALL WHITE PARTY

Elegance January 2013

Regina Manneh

10 Reasons to

46 Why Should my parents interfere?

Gambia Bird Connects the skies

65 Reader’s Views

VIVIANE CHIDID Lodon

67 gAMBIA fASHION wEEKEND

70 WEURGU-YARAM CI GAMBIA 71 special tribute to Sailou Jallow

Elegance January 2013

My Gov’t will continue to work with the private sector: President Jammeh

n the wake of the year 2013, Gambia’s dynamic leader President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh has reiterated his resolve to work with the private sector to spur economic growth and better conditions for investors and entrepreneurs in The Gambia. The president made this resolve together with pertinent issues of national development and international concern in a New Year message he delivered on the eve of year 2013. Here, following, is the full statement of President Jammeh: Fellow Gambians, Friends and well-wishers of The Gambia, Dear viewers, Humanity at Large, Ladies and Gentlemen As we march into the New Year 2013 with profound gratitude and praises to the Almighty Allah for giving us this privilege, we will continue to seek His innumerable blessings and infinite mercies for our motherland throughout the New Year and beyond. As a nation, we have a lot to be grateful to the Almighty Allah and should not lose sight of the fact that only He can give us what we need to not only develop our motherland into an economic superpower sooner rather than later but for our daily sustenance as well. As we rejoice, celebrate and participate in the usual festivities that come with this season, looking forward to the New Year with strengthened hope, enthusiasm, and optimism, we must not lose sight of the fact that this is also a period of prayers, thanks giving and devotion to our creator and Lord of the Worlds. These are also times that give us the opportunity to look back on the past twelve months, in order to assess our performance as individuals, community, and more importantly as a nation. This allows us to better prepare ourselves for the next twelve months with more resolve to improve on our performance and attain better quality of life in the New Year. As a nation, we have achieved a lot over the past eighteen years compared to the previous governments but we still have to work much harder with strong patriotic zeal, honesty and more importantly with total devotion and submission to the Supremacy of the Almighty Allah if we want to achieve the economic superpower status on time. Armed with our strong faith in and fear of Allah driven by strong determination to succeed, working together as one united family of a nation, we shall reach the promised land of highest standards of living where poverty is relegated to the dust bin of history and greater happiness, peace and everlasting prosperity will be the order of the day. In essence an economic superpower that would dwarf the current day military superpowers or economic giants. This will be the ultimate destination for this great nation. It will be the greatest triumph or success but no success can really be termed great success, if it is achieved without facing great challenges and overcoming them. Greater challenges lie ahead of the road to our promised Elegance January 2013

destination. These challenges have to be faced collectively and overcome. The greatest successes can come only after overcoming the greatest challenges or obstacles. Like any other year, the new will bring challenges, opportunities and success, but each challenge should unite and bring us closer and each success should make us stronger and better believers in the supremacy of the Almighty Allah. Indeed as believers who put their trust and faith in Allah, we will always be a stronger nation and our optimism boundless. As a result, we can achieve any goal that we set for ourselves as a nation and our country will reach greater heights with the coming of New Year In Sha Allah. As New Year begins let me take this opportunity to not only congratulate you all but wish all of us greater happiness and more prosperity and success in our noble endeavours in the New Year 2013. I also pray that all our dreams and development plans in the New Year come true. Fellow Gambians, Friends and well-wishers of The Gambia, Distinguished viewers, Ladies and Gentlemen For a better self-assessment as a nation we are poised to enter the year 2013, it is prudent to engage in serious reflection on the year ending. In this context, I observe that similar to the preceding year, 2012, was an eventual year both nationally and internationally. For illustration, I will briefly make reference to few remarkable events. Globally, the world has continued to move further towards multi- polarity and globalization, while innovations of science and technology brews

new breathtaking breakthroughs, though Global recovery from the recent economy meltdown is still slow, with hardships and discomfort accentuated by both natural and man-made catastrophes lingering in many nations. World peace, development and human progress socially, politically and economically have been hindered as a consequence. However, we are thankful to the Almighty Allah that despite the turbulence in the international economic system, during the year, our economy remained resilient and stable. We were able to absorb all the shocks due to prudent financial and fiscal policies implemented by Government. In view of the important contribution of Agriculture to the economy, we appreciate the amount of rainfall this year and we are delighted at the positive response of Gambians to my Back-to-the-land call which has resulted in a very good harvest generally. Hopefully, this will ensure sustained economic growth and increase household food security in the coming year. This optimism offset the despondency resultant from the 2010 crop failure that had terrible consequences, especially for the poor and vulnerable groups in society. It was fortunate that Government cushioned crop failure competently with appropriate measures that were complemented by support from the international community. To all those who provide such support, we convey profound gratitude. Fellow citizens, Ladies and Gentlemen It is expected that the economy will grow in the New Year due to the good rainy season and increased agricultural output. In order to promote

and sustain this growth, we shall continue to maintain and improve on the fiscal discipline and monetary policies implemented throughout the year. Furthermore, my Government will continue to work with the private sector to spur economic growth and, thereby, create more employment opportunities, especially for the youth. To this effect, Gambian entrepreneurs and employers are urged to continue to be innovative and look for business opportunities in virgin areas.

Park and first graduation ceremony of hometrained lawyers, some of whom now support the Gambian bench in their quest to adjudicate or deliver justice. The number of doctors graduated in 2012 is unprecedented, giving us the reassurance that the ratio of doctors to the population will continue to improve. In addition, the graduation of the first batch of UTG students tutored through distance learning is one of a number of newest strategies employed to expand access to university education. Happily Fellow Gambians also, much of the preparatory work leading to the ICT cannot prosper in the absence of power. civil works for the UTG campus in Faraba Banta Increasingly, the energy sector has been gripped has been done, and construction works will by numerous challenges in the past, including begin in 2013. incessant power outages. Fortunately, the upsurge in access to electricity in the country Fellow Gambians, Friends and well wishers of and the reliability of the service provided in this The Gambia. sector during the current year has contributed The declaration of 2012 as Year of STI prompted tremendously to improving the business nation-wide activities that ranged from radio and climate and socio-political life in the country. television sensitizing programmes, discussions, Notwithstanding this success, we will not relent essay competitions, parades and exhibitions to in our efforts to improve the distribution network the organization of the First National Science, and provide power for every community in The Technology and Innovation Exhibition and Gambia, including the utilization of alternative Conference, which was held recently. For the sources of energy – that is, renewable energy. successful commemoration of the year, we One of other events in 2012 was the execution thank the STI Ministerial Committee under of convicted murderers based on the provisions the chairmanship of the Minister for Higher of the Constitution and Laws of the Land. Such Education, Research, Science and Technology, necessary actions despite being constitutional supported by the STI National Technical were misconstrued outside The Gambia Committee. I have followed the celebrations in and hypocritically blown out of proportion various regions and municipalities, and I thank unnecessarily. In fostering peace and stability all Mayors and Governors for their cooperation in The Gambia, my Government will never with the Ministerial Committee. In the year ahead, compromise with criminals whose main intention all sectors should cooperate to implement is to stall our progress. When we carried out the strategies developed to harness Science, those executions, we acted within the confines Technology and Innovation for the rapid and of our national laws, and in accordance with our sustainable development of the nation. commitment to the rule of the law. As a nation, we denounce violence in all its forms, and my Fellow Gambians, Friends of The Gambia, Government will always maintain zero tolerance Distinguished viewers for violence, anarchy, murder, rape, drugs, No year passes without trials or challenges, corruption, and sadistic criminal disguised in any hence we always pray for a prosperous future. religion to slaughter innocent people under the For the coming year, therefore, let us look forward name of any cult – I call it cult because none of to a brighter world, but we must work hard and the main religions from Allah’s prophets enjoined pray for peace, prosperity and security to return any act of violence and mass murder in pursuit of to the African continent in particular and to the establishing or expanding such a religion. whole world in general. Let us resolve to coexist peacefully, and as expected, continue to strive Fellow Gambians, Friends of The Gambia, Dear to explore and learn, and to grow, live well and viewers improve our lot. As we strive to maintain a healthy nation, we Last year at this time, I said that it was imperative will work hard to educate the nation. Linked to that we took charged of our destiny by this, it is worth mentioning that the education inculcating in ourselves a culture of work ethics sector continues to be a “No success can really be termed great source of pride for us and a catalyst for attaining success, if it is achieved without facing economic superpower great challenges and overcoming them.” status we are fervently working towards. The and a strong sense of discipline in our daily lives intensification of the Primary Teacher’s Certificate so that we would transform our dear nation in Extension Programme, introduction of the donkey to the peaceful economic superpower that we cart to enhance school access, the quality set out to achieve in our Vision 2020. Well, the improvement initiatives relating to teacher content year, 2020 is only seven tears away therefore, knowledge, training of Mathematics and Science it is incumbent on all citizens to unite and work teachers, and the cash transfer system are together in order to achieve our national targets among the innovations within the sector. irrespective of our various political affiliations. At the upper echelons of the education system, To transform The Gambia into an economic graduates from the tertiary and higher education superpower requires sacrifice, hard work, level have increased in critical areas that were patriotism and honesty on the part of each and before now under subscribed. Hence, this year’s every one of us. There is no other route or short convocation ceremony marked the inauguration cut. of The University of The Gambia (UTG) Science

Fellow Gambians, Friends of The Gambia and Distinguished viewers As regards our social life, respect for one another is inevitable if we are to remain knitted as one family. It is imperative that we endeavour to understand one another and avoid inflicting discomfort or pain on anyone else. As we gear up for the New Year, we should be ready to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead for this great country. I am confident that, together we can surely build and transform this country into one that will be the envy of the world. Globally, I reaffirmed that The Gambia will uphold the banner of peace, development and cooperation and adhere to a foreign policy of peaceful coexistence and respect for one another’s sovereignty. Unfortunately, we will take the road of peaceful development and implement strategy of mutual benefits. We will continue to develop and strengthen friendly cooperation with all friendly nations and participate actively in efforts by the international community to deal with global issues. All these are geared towards building a harmonious world of lasting peace and prosperity for all people. Before concluding, allow me to reiterate the point that since the advent of the second republic, eighteen years ago, The Gambia has grown and prospered. The pace continues unabated for many more years by the grace of the Almighty Allah. In consequence, I pledge to continue to serve this nation with all my heart and soul. However, one person does not make a nation, which implies that I am not the nation. It is all of us citizens of The Gambia, who constitute the nation. Therefore, my Government will march forward with all genuine Gambians and friends of The Gambia, convinced that we will guarantee a brighter future for all. Let us support one another, as we journey through the future – loving, understanding and caring for our fellow travellers on this journey. To each of you, I send sincere wishes for happiness in the coming year, with a special thought to our Christian brothers and sisters with whom we are celebrating this blessed season. To the vulnerable amongst us, whether young or old, and to those whom the accidents of life have brought despair, I use this opportunity to assure them that they will not be abandoned. In the face of isolation and solitude, which are widespread in modern society, I pray that 2013 becomes the year to restore meaning to the beautiful word, “fraternity.” This being the case, I intend to build a one thousand, one hundred and eleven beds multipurpose hospital dedicated to treatment of HIV and AIDS patients. To implement this project, I will bank on the benevolence of the Almighty first and foremost and the kindhearted members of the human race through fund raising, cultural, musical, and sporting events. This hospital I hope will be inaugurated and fully operational by 2015 In Sha Allah. With this project coming to fruition, we intend to treat ten thousand HIV/ AIDS patients every six months through natural medicine. I therefore count on the support and understanding of all and sundry. On this note, may Allah the Almighty Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala take in his care our affairs and ease for us the burden of the journey to eternal salvation and peace. I wish you a happy New Year. 9

Elegance January 2013

Triple Heritage

I was born and raised in Gambia, West Africa, a predominantly Muslim population, a former British colony, and a place rich in culture. Gambia is a place where the people are warm, the Atlantic coast is constantly smiling and the laughter of children always fills the air. There, no one is sheltered from the realities of life, regardless of social status. People of all faiths live in harmony. The weather is tropical and the beaches are sandy. Gambia is where memories of My Triple Heritage are peacefully resting and available at a moment’s notice, for when I feel the need to reminisce. In Gambia, Islam is woven into the fabric of the indigenous culture and the Western influence is the stitch that holds it together. With the mixture of Western

unconscious. Westerners can be accommodating, not out of courtesy, but out of sympathy. They see you as a poor soul who was unlucky enough to be an African. Most have their preconceived notions of what an African should look and act like, based on a Discovery Channel documentary or images of Africa they’ve seen, which are generally of war, poverty and hunger. They have already categorized you. There is a big box labelled Africa, and they expect you to fit in it. Well, not I. I’m not the next African you know or Gambian for that matter. Granted, there are dictators in some African countries that are committed to bad governance which could lead to a societal decay, but the people are strong, resilient and resourceful. It is amazing to me that The Triple Heritage I’ve been there is still a lack of blessed with has enriched my understanding of Africa life in ways beyond measure and Africans, even though ideas, Islam and the indigenous culture, Africa has been and is still abundantly present you now have a contemporary society that in Western life. Africa built the West, from the is complex, sophisticated and vibrant. This labour to the raw materials. Africa is engraved mixture describes a social and historical reality, in Western popular music, and heavily but also explains the Gambian experience. influences modern art. Africa has given shape It is the blend of Islam, Western ideas and to everything we understand to be “Modern” indigenous culture that constitutes My Triple and “Urban”. Yet, with this very sense of Heritage. familiarities, some Westerners still view In my little over two decades of navigating the Africa to be as distant as the furthest galaxy. Western waters, I’ve been asked reasonable, Contemporary Africa is rich in culture, diverse, unreasonable and flat-out stupid questions vibrant and unique. about Gambia and Africa in general. I’ve been There is a romantic view about Africa among mistaken as the son of an African dictator, many. Some are captured by Africa and either one of the children in the Save the Children visited or hope to visit someday, because it’s Foundation videos and a refugee. I’m none their lifelong dream. They are fascinated by of the above. Others have attempted to the people and the richness of culture. Others take me for a fool, with no success. People see it as a dark place and will do everything in sometimes see Africa and Africans in certain their power to avoid going there. As for the rest, limited, preconditioned ways. For most, it is well, they are just clueless. They think Africa is Elegance January 2013

a country or a state. Their view of Africa is based on nothing but ignorance. It is informed by the latest news on TV or latest celebrity baby adoption. The Triple Heritage I’ve been blessed with has enriched my life in ways beyond measure, and allowed me to see life from three different perspectives. I’m able to draw strength and wisdom from all three when the need arises, to maintain a good balance. My Triple Heritage has also saved me from being myopic. I feel honoured and privileged to be African, and thankful for all my experiences. In my endless efforts to be green, I’ve been recycling my values and passing them on to my two girls. I don’t claim to be an intellectual, but I am not a fool either. As we all continue to sail through the rough waters of life: respect, understanding, acceptance and appreciation are the only instruments we need. With them, no wave is too tall. We are one people, one world and there is only one God. Let’s live and learn, and learn to live. God bless. By Momodou Ndow

Elegance January 2013

GAMBIANS AGAINST RAPE & MOLESTATION (GARM) FIGHTING SEXUAL ABUSE IN THE GAMBIA Sexual abuse is defined by the World Health Organization as “any sexual act, attempt to obtain a sexual act, unwanted sexual comments or advances, or acts to traffic, or otherwise directed, against a person’s sexuality using coercion, by any person regardless of their relationship to the victim, in any setting, including but not limited to home and work”. It is a devastating and traumatic experience and its impact on victims can range from no apparent effects to very severe physical, emotional and psychological effects such as gynecological problems, unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, self blame, self-hate, fear, anger, and even suicide. It also affects families and society at large in more ways than we’d think. Sexual abuse comes in many forms - rape or sexual assault, child sexual abuse, incest, unwanted sexual contact/touching, sexual harassment (verbal and nonverbal), sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, showing one’s genitals or naked body to other(s) without consent, masturbating in public, watching someone in a private act without their knowledge or permission etc. It may occur in any type of relationship or environment, but most offenders are known to their victims, usually someone close to them such as a neighbour or family member. Sexual abuse is not about sexual satisfaction but rather about power and control which degrades and dehumanizes and causes lasting damage to victims and consequently, to the social fabric and Elegance January 2013

economic development of any nation. “We have seen that rape can be a life sentence for the survivors. They are sanctioned socially and economically. Their freedom of movement, health and human dignity is denied” Ms. Wallström, UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Abuse in Conflict These horrendous acts occur throughout the world and are classified as criminal acts almost everywhere. However, in most countries there has been very little research conducted on the problem. This is due mainly to the private and personal nature of the experience, making estimating the extent of the problem even more difficult. Although some people are in denial, The Gambia unfortunately is no exception. Sexual abuse has existed and still exists within the very core of our society. Hardly a day passes by without the news media reporting a rape case in our courts. The problem is complicated even further by our culture of “sutura” (secrecy or privacy); victim blaming, shaming and stigmatization (instead of holding the offenders accountable); lack of education, awareness and platforms to talk about and address the issue; lack of / inadequate victim support services; increase in sex tourism and trafficking and poverty and economic hardships or social pressure to “have it all”. Sexual abuse is a crime in the Gambia and the law levies heavy sentences on convicted offenders in the fight against this criminal offence. Prominent in the fight are individuals and organizations such

as the Child Protection Alliance, APAP International, UNICEF, Department of Social Welfare and the Women’s Bureau. In April of 2011, a fictional story about a girl’s experience with molestation published by Balafong sparked a heated discussion online and led to the birth of The Group Of Gambians Against Rape and Molestation, GARM. GARM is a group of committed individuals engaging in the fight against sexual abuse in the Gambia through education and awareness to change attitudes and behaviour; policy advocacy to build a strong and supportive government and communities; and soliciting donations from local, international and Diaspora agencies and individuals to support Gambian-based organizations that provide direct services to survivors. GARM is registered in The Gambia as The Group of Gambians Against Rape and Molestation. The organization currently has 31 registered members, headed by Sirra Ndow as the Interim. Since its inception, GARM primarily been involved in: • Raising awareness about the issue of sexual abuse in our homes, communities and society • Creating platforms facilitate and encourage talking about the issue. For example, the website www.speakup.gm where survivors of sexual abuse can share their stories as a form of healing and raising awareness • Advocating for change in attitudes, 13

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behaviour • Recruiting and training volunteers to help in survivor supporting In line with the organization’s vision, GARM plans include: • Operating a sexual abuse hotline • Educating the public on the issue, how to prevent it and how to support survivors • Setting up a network of professional volunteers to help survivors – lawyers, doctors, therapists • Helping in the creation tools, resources and services such as national statistics and databases to measure progress, recovery centres etc. • Fund raising to pay for programs,

together, work out in the best way for Gambia and Gambians to solve them.

services, activities and projects to victims financially

help

• Advocating for and supporting economic empowerment by working with other agencies to address some of the root causes of the social “acceptance” of sexual abuse such as economic hardships, lack of skills and training. • Continuing to collaborate with all stakeholders – parents, government, service providers, religious and community leaders, international communities, the general public and the media to understand the problem and

“The media in particular has an undeniable powerful role to play, not only in educating the public and policy makers about the issues and potential solutions, but also in advocating for change in attitudes and behaviour. Elegance Magazine stepping up to champion the cause of sexual abuse prevention in the Gambia is a major step towards realizing our vision.” Says Sirra Ndow, Interim President of GARM. Sexual abuse affects everyone directly or indirectly, male or female, young or old and no matter what part of the social or economic spectrum you fall on. It is not an individual problem, it is everybody’s business and Elegance is making its business.

For more information about GARM and to learn more about sexual abuse, visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/garmmovement, @GARMMovement on Twitter, at GARM Videos on Youtube and our survivor support website at www.speakup.gm or you can reach us by phone and SMS on 7070080/7989198.

Elegance January 2013

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Elegance January 2013

BRINGING HOME A SON OF THE SOIL

Attorney Mohamad Edi Faal Speaks to Elegance Magazine

ohamad Edi Faal is a Gambian-American attorney practising civil and criminal law in the Washington, DC area. In addition to his work in private practice, he serves as General Counsel for Prudent Trust, a private investment management firm with offices in the U.S. and The Gambia. Mr. Faal was born in Anaheim, California, and grew up in the Los Angeles suburb of Phillips Ranch. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and a law degree from American University’s Washington College of Law in Washington, DC. Mr. Faal is also a writer with interests in African development, investment, and advocacy. He is an ardent Manchester United and Los Angeles Lakers fan. The young Gambian lawyer, who is passionate about using his efforts and talents to make a difference in people’s lives, spent October and November 2012 in The Gambia, helping Prudent Trust launch the country’s first-ever escrow service. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Faal speaks to Elegance Magazine on enterprising and lifetouching issues. Elegance: Tell us about yourself: who is Mohamad Edi Faal? Mohamad Edi Faal: I am a friendly, down to earth guy from Southern California. I am an attorney by trade. I am the oldest of three boys – my brothers are Saul and Omar. We are very close. I have two great parents – my dad is Edi M.O. Faal and my mom is Jorjoh Samba. My dad inspires me and is the first person I turn to for advice. My mom is my rock and my biggest cheerleader - I can’t go a day without talking to her. I am proud of my Gambian heritage. I am intellectually curious. I’ve been told that I am annoyingly polite. I am ambitious and confident, but humble. I love competing and love sports. Love to laugh. I’m very sarcastic and witty. Lastly, I would say that I am passionate about using my efforts and talents to make a difference in people’s lives, whether it is in the courtroom or working on development projects.

Elegance January 2013

EM: What can you tell us about Prudent awareness of our service and explain why it Trust and the role you play in the is needed in The Gambia. company? This trip has been a great experience for MEF: Prudent Trust is a private investment me. I’ve had a chance to network with a management firm that was established in lot of remarkable people. I’ve also had 2011. In addition to wealth management, a chance to work alongside and learn we offer property management and real from talented people like Niania, Harona estate services, business advisory services; Drammeh from Mediamatic, and Lamin we secure housing for non-residents who Marenah from Studio 361. It was great will be staying in Gambia short-term or meeting and working with Fatou M. Jallow, long term, and provide escrow services. CEO of GiEPA, and Almami Fanding Taal, We cater to a niche market – mainly nonCEO of GCCI as well. I was also able to resident Gambians and non-Gambian spend time with my grandparents and visit nationals. with family and friends. We also act as a special-purpose vehicle in helping governments and investors initiate EM: For those who are unfamiliar with and implement development projects. what escrow is, can you give a brief At the moment, our focus is on low-cost explanation? housing projects in the ECOWAS region. MEF: Sure. Escrow is a very simple If all goes well, our first project will start in concept – it is a service that protects all Senegal next year. the parties involved in a transaction, such My role is that of General Counsel. In as the sale of property or a vehicle, by other words, I am the company’s in-house acting as a neutral, independent thirdattorney. I draft contracts, give general party to facilitate the transfer of money and legal advice, assist with negotiations, bring title between buyer and seller. In other in outside counsel if necessary, and fill in words, Prudent Trust essentially acts as a wherever else I am needed. ‘middleman’ in transactions. We have a brilliant Managing Director, In many transactions, there is a lack of Niania D. Touray, who “In the past people used to has set an ambitious, yet focused direction for focus on one thing and do it our company. She has well, but in this day and age, assembled an excellent team, which has a nice you have to focus on a few blend of youth and experience. We also have things and do all of them well.” a strong foundation – we are backed by an trust between the buyer and seller. Many experienced Chairman, my dad Edi M.O. times that lack of trust causes the parties Faal, and Board. We have offices in the not to enter into deals and causes investors U.S. and The Gambia. You can learn more to take their money out of the country. about us at www.prudenttrust.com. We believe that our escrow services will help bridge the trust gap between buyer EM: What is the purpose of your trip to The and seller by adding more certainty and Gambia? decreasing transactional risks. We can MEF: The purpose of my trip is to help provide this service cheaper and more Prudent Trust implement and launch The efficiently than attorneys can, who are often Gambia’s first escrow service. Over a year times costly and overburdened. ago, the Chairman and Managing Director Escrow is standard in all large transactions told me that they were interested in creating in the United States, Europe, and Asia; so an escrow division to Prudent Trust and we are hoping it will also attract international gave me the huge task of implementing investors and give them peace of mind it. Before I came, I took all the necessary when they want to enter into transactions classes to educate myself on escrow and here. The Gambia is a small, but very drafted all the necessary documents. I also transactional country so we feel like this consulted with many experienced escrow service will be very useful. professionals. Since I’ve been here, I have trained the EM: Your dad, Edi M.O. Faal, is a staff, helped organize our escrow launch, prominent attorney in the United States. spoke at the escrow launch, and assisted Can you tell us about your dad and some with our marketing strategy. I have also high profile cases he has been involved in? met with many influential people to create MEF: My dad is an inspiration to me. I

admire his intellectual capabilities, focus, and perseverance. It is very moving to hear him tell his life story – growing up in poverty in Banjul, coming to the States by himself at 19, working his way through school, and later becoming one of the top attorneys in the United States. Also, he never rests on his laurels and I try to emulate that. He has been involved in many high profile cases – too many to name. I believe that the case that made him famous was his defense of Damian “Football” Williams, who was part of the “L.A. Four,” in the aftermath of the Rodney King beating and the L.A. Riots. He was involved in the O.J. Simpson case as well and later represented Rodney King. He’s been in cases involving Stevie Wonder, Snoop Dogg, and Suge Knight. Orlando Anderson, the initial main suspect after Tupac was killed, was also one of his clients. He also represented Dwayne Keith Davis, a suspect in the killing of Christopher “The Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace. Those are just a few. However, he has spent the majority of his career championing the rights of countless victims of injustice – things like police abuse, discrimination, and unfair treatment. EM: What are your strengths and weaknesses? MEF: I think my strengths are my intellectual curiosity and my ability to relate to people from all walks of life. I say my intellectual curiosity because it doesn’t sit well with me when I don’t know something. I often pull out my iPhone on the spot to Google a word I don’t know or a subject I’m not familiar with. This helps because you are always learning something new and always want to master what you don’t know. Over time, it ends 17

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“I want to establish myself as one of the top trial attorneys in the Washington, DC area. I also want to help Prudent Trust establish itself as one of the premier companies in the ECOWAS region.” up giving you a broad knowledge base. Likewise, an ability to relate to people always helps because you will always need to live and work with a diverse range of people and personalities. When you can relate to someone, it makes everything easier. Lastly, I think I’m very good at parsing through information to quickly figure out what is important and what is irrelevant – in any situation. I find that trait to be very useful. My weaknesses… hmm. Good question! I can be impatient at times. I tend to put high expectations on people close to me – sometimes too high. I also have a tendency to micro-manage – I need to learn to trust the judgment of others more. These are all things I am working on. EM: Apart from your work with Prudent Trust, can you tell us about your work and life in the Washington, DC area? MEF: I practise civil and criminal law in the Washington, DC area. I’m gaining great experience and I’m working on a lot of interesting cases. The practice of law is very different than the work I do at Prudent, but I love it. It involves advocacy, intensive client interaction, and court appearances. It forces you to be sharp and think on your feet. The criminal justice system is not perfect and you have a disproportionate amount of young black males in the system. These people are often railroaded by the system and their societies. I believe that it is important that they have a passionate,

diligent advocate to represent their interests and protect their rights. I don’t see many other young, black lawyers in my line of work so I feel like I am doing my part. One experienced, older attorney told me two months back that I inspire many of the defendants just with my presence in the courtroom. He said that they see someone like me, who is young and looks like them, and they know that there is another way. That really stuck with me. Washington, DC is a very dynamic city. It’s the nation’s capital, so there are so many diverse and interesting people and organizations to associate with. I go out for happy hour often to catch up with friends. I associate with African diaspora and civil service groups and do some writing on African issues. There is a strong network of young, enterprising Africans in the area who are very passionate about doing their part to move Africa forward. I do some mentorship through the African Leadership Academy’s DC branch. I am also a member of the University of Michigan Alumni Network and the National Bar Association, which is the world’s largest black bar association.

EM: How do you see Gambia from the last time you visited in terms of development? MEF: Before this trip, the last time I visited Gambia was six years ago – December 2006. From what I can see, anecdotally, the country has developed a lot since then. I noticed the development on the plane ride from Dakar. From the sky, there were a lot more buildings and paved roads. On the ground, there were more businesses, more developed commercial areas and neighborhoods, and more cars and traffic. A lot of qualified young Gambians are coming back from studying abroad and contributing to Gambia’s development in the public and private sectors. Also, a lot of enterprising, quality companies have popped up and are being run by some really talented people. There is still a lot of work to do, but after six years away, I see quite a bit of progress.

EM: Where do you see yourself in five EM: What are some of your favourite years? places in The Gambia? MEF: I want to establish myself as one of MEF: My favourite place in The Gambia the top trial attorneys in the Washington, hands down is Ngala Lodge. I was lucky DC area. I also want to help Prudent enough to stay there during part of my trip Trust establish itself as one of the premier and it is absolutely beautiful. The food, companies in the ECOWAS region. It is my staff, and oceanfront views are all excellent hope that in five years, I would have been – it’s a very refined, but authentic Gambian involved in many successful development experience. I’ve also fallen in love with Gaya projects in Africa. Art Café and Butcher’s Shop. I’ve spent Ultimately, I want my work, along with my a lot of time at the Village – Amore and extra-curricular activities Caramel are great. Coco Ocean Hotel is an such as my “I love Elegance magazine. It showcases the writings positive stories, images, and people associated on African with The Gambia, which I feel is important issues, and which contributes to a more balanced and my nuanced view of the country.” association with African diaspora groups, and my promotion of investment in Africa, to give me the platform to help inform and influence U.S. policy towards Africa. I want to help move the continent forward. To do that, we

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need to wean ourselves off the aid model and encourage greater investment and strategic partnerships. I also hope to live in my favorite city, London, at some point during the next five years and work on a Masters or LLM. Lastly, I would like to meet a nice young lady and eventually start a family. These are lofty goals, but I believe that you have to shoot for the moon – if you miss, you’ll still be amongst the stars.

amazing place as well. As far as nightlife goes, I would recommend Kora, Aquarius, Cristal, and Poco Loco. EM: Do you speak Wolof? MEF: Haha - it’s complicated! I understand it perfectly, but can’t really speak it aside from using random words or phrases here and there. When I do try to speak it, I mix it

with a lot of English. Plus, with my accent, it sounds really weird so I avoid speaking it because I get self-conscious. I want to learn how to speak it fluently though – all I need is a solid three months in Gambia. EM: How soon will you visit The Gambia again? MEF: I would like to come back next month! It seems like everyone is looking forward to December here. I’m not sure how soon I’ll come back, but I would like to come back as soon as possible. EM: What do you do to relax? What kind of music do you like to listen to? MEF: Good question. When I want to relax, I usually listen to Sade, who I absolutely love, and put my phone on airplane mode. I can watch sports or marathon sessions of my favorite shows like “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “The Wire” all day. When I’m at home in Southern California, I go to Newport Beach or Huntington Beach and just walk on the beach, getting lost in my thoughts. I like company, but I enjoy introspective time alone as well. I also play basketball, soccer, and work out. I listen to all types of music. My favourite artists at the moment are Drake, The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, Lupe Fiasco,

Kendrick Lamar, and Gotye. EM: Do you have any advice for aspiring young African professionals? MEF: Be persistent, be resilient, don’t burn bridges, network like crazy, quietly go about your business, trust your own judgment, and take risks. Diversify your skill-set. In the past people used to focus on one thing and do it well, but in this day and age, you have to focus on a few things and do all of them well. Also, learn to manage disappointment. Setbacks WILL happen on your way to the top; however, the ability to come back from those setbacks is what separates successful people from everyone else. Finally, don’t expect immediate benefits from networking. Foster quality relationships – someone you meet today may be able to help you advance your career five or ten years from now. You never know. I’m still learning and it is still early in my career, but these are things that I’ve learned along the way. EM: It seems like you’re working on a lot of interesting projects. What’s next for MEF and how can people follow you and get in contact with you? MEF: I plan to keep working hard and stay focused on my goals. I believe that

God helps those who help themselves. I don’t know what the future holds, but I am excited about it. EM: What can you tell us about Elegance Magazine? MEF: Well, I can’t say enough about Elegance Magazine. I love the concept and I love the magazine. It showcases the positive stories, images, and people associated with The Gambia, which I feel is important and which contributes to a more balanced and nuanced view of the country. I’ve read the first few editions and I was struck by the quality of the magazine – the presentation, the writing, the interviews, and the people featured. Also, the magazine has improved with every edition, which is a testament to its Founder and CEO, Chilel Sarr. I am so proud of her – I call her “First Lady” not only because she was named after The Gambia’s former First Lady, but because she was the first to introduce a lifestyle magazine to the Gambian market. She’s a trailblazer and I salute her. I am honored and delighted to be the first male featured on the cover. To be featured after the likes of Ndey Awa Khan, the former Gambian Businesswoman of the Year, and Fatou Mass Jobe, Gambia’s Tourism Minister, is truly humbling. 19

Elegance January 2013

ACCESS BANK APPOINTS NEW MD, HOLDS FIFTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

ccess Bank (Gambia) Limited held its Fifth Annual General Meeting at the Bank’s Head Office along Kairaba Avenue. Commenting on the Financial Performance of the Bank for the year ended 31st December 2011, the Chairman Board of Directors, Mr. Bai Matarr Drammeh said that the bank implemented turnaround strategies that resulted to operational profit (before credit losses) of GMD3 Million compared to a loss of GMD16 Million in year 2010. However, the high level of Non-Performing Loans (NPL) was a challenge which led to further provisioning. However, this trend has been reversed as the bank is already making remarkable progress in

Elegance

Do’s & Dont’s

by Aji Amie

collections of NPLs. Total assets and contingents grew by 7.7% from GMD920 Million in 2010 to GMD991 Million in 2011. The bank is focused on a path of sustained operational profit while pursuing recovery and improving the quality of its loan portfolio. The Chairman announced the appointment of Mr. Oladapo Fajemirokun as the new Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Fajemirokun comes from the Group office in Nigeria with over 15 years of experience in Corporate, Development, Commercial banking and Oil & Gas. He stated “I am confident that his appointment will continue to drive the bank in the path of sustained profitability”.

The outgoing MD, Mr. Oleka Ojiogo was thanked for his stewardship and commitment during his tenure and wished well in his new assignment at the Group Office. On Corporate Social Responsibility, the bank during the year, donated food items and detergents to the SOS Orphanage and Clinic. The Santa Yalla Support Society (SYSS) benefited from the Food Items geared towards the supporting Gambians living with HIV/ AIDS in line with our CSR objectives. Staff members were also involved in Corporate Social Responsibility. Their interventions centered on donation of mosquito nets and gifts to the Children’s ward of the RVTH and sponsorship of a student at the Latrikunda Upper Basic School

everything you have and instead of people seeing each thing as an individual item it becomes one mass when nothing appears that special. Hair is so important make sure it is well styled and neat . One classic item can make an outfit stand out, a fantastic bag or shoes can lift a whole outfit from the ordinary to the special

Attendants at the AGM

Dapo Fajemirokun

think sometimes less is more, when you have too many things clashing then no one stands out, it is like trying to show

Elegance 20 Members of the January High Table2013 at the AGM

Attendants at the AGM

Make sure your shoes are immaculate including the heels, people notice shoes Don’t over pack a handbag otherwise it will lose the designers shape and become bulky

When you use the bathroom check your makeup and touch up if required Ensure that everything is fresh, if you wear a dress for a few hours and it doesn’t need cleaning or washing hang it outside the wardrobe to air before putting it away. Don’t Use Silvery Eyeshadows Eye shadow colours with silvery undertones can tend to be a bit harsh on black skin so use colours that are warmer and have more golden tones for a more flattering look.

Elegance January 2013

DESIGNS

ARE AFROEUROCENTRIC:

Ya Awa Conateh As fashion designing continues to make waves in The Gambia, more designers in the industry are making their mark in it with the provision of fashion apparels that meet the taste and styles of people from various backgrounds, especially fashion aficionados. Ya Awa Conateh, proprietress of Yaws Creations, is a leading light in the Gambia fashion industry who has gone through the nittygritty of the profession. She tells it all in this interview with Elegance Magazine.

pursued my studies at Leeds College of Art and Design, where I studied Fashion and Interior Decor. EM: Why did you go in for fashion designing and not other professions? Awa: It is because, I guess, that’s where my soul belongs.

EM: When did you start fashion designing, and what are some of the achievements you have made in it? Awa: I started it in 2007, when there Elegance Mag: Could you please tell me used to be fashion shows in hotels about yourself and your place of origin? for tourists to buy and also only when there were special events. So coming Awa: Awa Conateh that’s the name I back home I found it quite boring - and was given at birth; nowadays though I guess I can say my first achievement a lot of people tend to call me Yaws, is bringing the fashion to where it is which was a nickname given to me when I was growing up, which has been today: organising fashion shows only to showcase new collections and latest my brand now. trends. EM: What would you say about your It is also to pave the way for young fashion designing? designers to come up with their own Awa: My designs are afroeurocentric. creativity and, guess what, we are doing I still do traditional ones with a feel of Gambia Fashion Weekend this year; contemporary twist in it. My designs so you are invited to come and cover can be eccentric, classic, funky or it, it’s gonna be the maaad! A lot of punky. Left to me alone, they are for achievements have been made. Also I people who like to stand out and make had a chance to go on an International a statement, for those who appreciate Visitors Leadership Programme, art and our African heritage – don’t get me wrong though; I have clients who are coordinated by the US Embassy, in the diplomatic and want something more on United States, where I met with 16 other ladies from around the world. There that level. was West Africa which were me and a Nigerian, and East, North and South EM: Where did you learn fashion Africa. There was also Europe, Eastern designing? Awa: I have always loved fashion from a and Western, and Scandinavia. Can you very long time but my fashion then was imagine what this was like? Awesome more fun, if you may call it that, coming and it was from doing a fashion show. So I have gone all the way only to from a family where my mom was a seamstress and used to make beautiful represent The Gambia and of course apparels for people who are part of the Yaws. journey. After I finished my high school, I Elegance January 2013

EM: What type of fashion designing do you normally do? Awa: As I have told you: before contemporary African wear, which is more of using our African prints or our traditional fabrics and giving it Yaws twist. One thing I will be expanding to is embroidery because a lot of my clients ask for it and it is still dominating the Gambian market. EM: You are a professional fashion designer. How do you normally feel in the profession? Awa: I feel blessed, Alhamdullilah you know. It’s good, it’s fun, I enjoy it a lot. EM: As more and more fashion designing companies are coming up in the country, what strategies do you put in place to penetrate and corner the market? Awa: Mmmmm, I think my strategy would be to continue being innovative, and as long as I believe, the sky rocks it is the limit.

EM: Can you tell me a bit about your experience in fashion designing? Awa: Shhhhw – mmmm, the experience is great, it is nice but it can be nasty; people keep trying to stop you, criticizing you, trying to put you down only for you to give up and be a loser like them; so I don’t pay attention to that. Whenever I come across that path I pray to God and focus on my thing and the reason why that is happening. EM: Are you married, if so with how many children? Awa: I was, and I have a son, he is my Imam. EM: Ya Awa Conateh, you are a fashion designer who has good experience in the profession. What support do you have for fashion magazine like Elegance magazine, which is a talk of the town? Awa: To support you I will not mind displaying your mag in my fashion house because I see your thing as a sister to our thing and Elegance is doing well, I see it as an innovation; fashion without mags get to nowhere. And it’s the other way round too: I am taking this opportunity to invite you to our upcoming show, all for the support. You are always welcome to wherever we showcase. I think it is an opportunity to take you along wherever Yaws goes, in terms of exposure if a professional cameraman is available – lol. And any other way you know that I can help, anytime, it will be a pleasure, just let me know. EM: What are some of your strengths and weaknesses? Awa: We try our best in whatever we do as we are only human beings; we are not perfect. On that note I will leave that to the people around me to tell you, because I don’t know.

of artisans who are innovative and want to grow. EM: You were once part of the Young Jollof Designers (YJD). Is it still on and are you still working together? Awa: The Young Jollof Designers is still on, yes. This association was born to promote Gambian fashion, some of the ladies that were part of it decided to call it off for their part, some are still on it; it can’t die like that, that was just the beginning to paving the way into the industry. It is open to any young mind that is creative and wants to be part of it, both men and women as we already have few men in it. Let them be themselves; determination and space must be catered for perseverance. I would like to tell them that if I can make it to this level, I believe they can take it to the next with more swag; just be creative, be innovative and be very strong. EM: Tell me the ladies that were involved in YJD and what was the whole idea? Awa: There was Aji Ramu Bittaye, Mina Jeng, Penda Bah, Ndey Fatu Ceesay and Moi. Also Aja Tambajang was part of it; she was the PR [public relations] and without her I don’t think YJD would have the fame it had. The whole idea behind the YJD was to boost the fashion industry. It all started with them wanting to do it just for fun; so they invited me for a meeting and told me their concept. I agreed to theirs and told them about mine too which was to take it to another level and made it a household name and do it properly and they agreed to mine too; it was then the fun began and, trust me, it was so much fun.

EM: As a young designer, do you get support from your age groups? Who are your customers and what message do you have for them? EM: Tell us about your new showroom. What Awa: I do get a few of my age mates and above, I cater for all ages. I would like to tell are the future plans for Ya Awa Conateh? my customers a big THANK YOU for their Awa: The new showroom is on the Brufut support. Without them, Yaws won’t still be Highway heading towards the Sheraton surviving. I appreciate every single thing Hotel; it is a state-of-the-art showroom showcasing Yaws’ trends in both the fashion they buy - from the tiniest thing that sells for a D100. I just wanna tell them to watch and home wares and also in other works the experience is great, it is nice but it out for the collection coming out this Christmas. can be nasty; people keep trying to stop you, criticizing you, trying to Hey also to Elegance mag, big up put you down only for you to give yourself, you are doing great, keep up and be a loser like them; it bubbling as you are the only mag so I don’t pay attention to that. we have.

Elegance January 2013

Young Gambian gives testimony level he has earned today because it meant that he had to cut down on the amount of hours he used to work to earn a living so that he could find enough time to do his research. The making of a man comes with lots of sacrifices. One path through which those sacrifices can be really challenging is in the pursuance of education. All those who have gone, or are going, through the path of achieving academic education know that education is the gateway or key to success in life.

Ousman Touray, a young

Gambian, who has just earned his Master’s degree in engineering project management from Coventry University in the UK, said that over the years he sacrificed a lot to have a bachelor’s degree in civil and structural engineering as well as a Master’s degree in engineering project management. In sharing his testimony with Elegance Magazine, Touray said: “I have always yearned to achieve my goal of getting educated because it will provide me with a strong backbone that I can lean on all the time and it stays with me for life. “I do a lot of other things like event planning, music promotion, marketing, etc but I always make sure that it didn’t affect my education and I succeeded.” It was never easy for Mr Touray to pursue his academic education to the

Elegance January 2013

“In my final Master’s degree, I stopped working because the course was very intense and I wanted to make sure I got top grades,” Ousman explains. “I had to prioritise and sacrifice a lot of time and resources but in the end I am glad I did. The best part of it all comes in the end.” Touray recalls further: “The day I handed in my dissertation, the day I knew it was all over, the day I got my results and the biggest day, my graduation day, are all highly memorable to me.

as his friends.

“In order to get the right job nowadays one has to be very flexible and get a good combination of skills and qualifications.”

“Walking down the isle with pride, I knew that I have achieved something great. My loved ones are happy and proud of me since I have completed one big stage of my life.” This is motivation for the younger ones, the young Master’s holder says, adding that it was never easy for him but “the end benefits are great”. He added: “I felt that in order to get the right job nowadays one has to be very flexible and get a good combination of skills and qualifications.” Touray says he is grateful for all the support he had from his mum - who happens to be current Tourism and Culture Minister Fatou Mas Jobe, and the rest of his family members, as well 25

Elegance January 2013

his aims is to take Gambian music global, to ensure the traditional lyrics and cultural sounds of his beloved land are enjoyed by people in other parts of the world. “Let the other sides of the world hear our story too,” he said. “At some point I would want to start a label and recruit artists through searching for talents who want to put their skills into good use.” Gee already has a youth fan club called TeamGee, created by his fans of both boys and girls.

Gee Talks about his New Album That Feeling

“TeamGee takes care of anything that has to do with my publicity, ensure my music is out there, create events, for example, basketball and football matches between other fan clubs so fans can socialize,” he explains. “Take it this way: if it wasn’t for TeamGee, I would not come this far. We are having new recruits every now and then and it has been growing rapidly ever since we started.” Even though the young artist would like to give substantial support and helping hand to other youths in the country, he lacks the wherewithal to implement all his good plans for the country and his fellow youth. He would therefore need the support of all and sundry to carry out his plans. “Sponsors hardly come in when doing any projects or shows,” Gee says. “Most of the time, you get to dig into your own pocket to keep things going.”

he race they say is not to the swift but for those who stand their ground to the end.

when he was about to perform in a high school talent show.

Hip-hop singer Gibril Bala-Gaye is just one Gambian artist who has gone through the A-Z of the music career he took up some 15 years ago.

That was the same year, according to Gee, that he started developing his rap and hip-hop music talents before he could actually take it to higher heights in mid-2000.

Bala-Gaye, commonly called Gee, says his love for music has ever been the motivating factor behind his taking the career seriously.

The 25-year-old Gambian hip-hop star says he took up music as a profession with the help of his friends, who motivated him to do his initial songs.

Without passion for one’s career, it is difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel in that vocation. Gee knows this very well; he therefore says: “I have a passion for what I do plus the fact that I’m getting paid for it…I feel this is what I love doing.” Gee, who is also a businessman, says that over the years he has released three albums and two mixed tapes, which are all making the rounds in The Gambia and beyond as the people enjoy listening their tracks.

“That motivation kept me going on to “I have loved music since at an early age, which inspired me to start writing down my “I have loved music since at own lyrics 15 years back, an early age, which inspired precisely in 1997,” Gee explains. me to start writing down my

“I’m about to release my 4th album titled ‘That Feeling’, in December 22nd 2012,” he disclosed, saying: “This is something The Gambia is going to be really proud of own lyrics 10 years back.” because I have brought a “In my first year in high lot of our culture into my music this time this point that I can say I am one of the school I studied it as a subject, which I around.” biggest hip-hop artists in the country really enjoyed.” today,” Gee notes. The star Gambian artist says one of In 1998 Gee recorded his first track Elegance January 2013

“If we should support one another meaningfully, all of us will be able to make marked progress in what we do,” the young Gambian notes, saying the initiative of institutions like Elegance Magazine to feature him in its publication is a quota of contribution to the support artists need in promoting their music and the industry. “Elegance Magazine covers events and people worth covering, and allowing people to know what is actually happening in The Gambia and places abroad where Gambians are living,” Gee says. “If it is not the best, it is one of the best entertainment magazines published in The Gambia.” Bul Falleh nyee Yow holla fée Ay Bul Falleh nyee Bul def lu gai di def since da Nga munj beh fée Hey fattel nyee Bul sah tontu nyee They CAN call us boring or what ever it dont bother me. 27

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Quotes

From international speaking engagements and coaching clients, to creating thought provoking quotes and developing a welcoming social media community, Mr. Never Give Up is transforming lives everyday. It is often said that the best teachers are those who have experienced what they teach, and Mr. Never Give Up shares wisdom from personal experience. Mr. Never Give Up was born when he lost practically everything that he had worked so hard to build over a 20 year period. In a short period of time, it was all gone. It was during the season of his life where he was rebuilding that he experienced tremendous transformation. He has collaborated with Elegance Magazine to supply the readers with motivational quotes. You can find more inspiration on www.mrnevergiveup.com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/misternevergiveup

> Banjul International Airport is located about 26km from the capital city of The Gambia and 12km from the Tourism Development Area. Being the only international airport in The Gambia, it has a monopoly over all airlines operating into and out of The Gambia. Banjul International Airport, then Yundum, served as re-fueling stop for Trans-Atlantic flights and flights to Europe during the period 1940 – 1959 and had also been used as an emergency landing site by the space shuttle. The airports infrastructure and human resource capabilities enabled various airlines of Heads of States to land here during the 2006 African Union Summit held in The Gambia. > Banjul International Airport is state owned and administered by the Civil Aviation Authority of The Gambia.

“A quote per day helps keep the negative attitude away!” -Mr Never Give Up.

they lose. Don’t base your decisions on the advice of people who don’t have to deal with the results.

The one who falls and gets up is so much stronger than the one who never fell.

A rich man once answered a young boy’s question: How can one succeed? The rich man replied “Keep your eyes and ears open, always do what you really love to do and when the chance arrives, grab it”. “But how do I know that this is it?” asked the boy. The man said: “You don’t, until after”. Take risks as life goes on.

I didn’t see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my Life. -Steve Jobs

You will never become who you want to be if you keep blaming everyone else for who you are.

People make mistakes. Mistakes make People.

The strongest people aren’t always the people who win, but the people who don’t give up when

Tel: 00 220 4472893, 0028220 4472831 Fax: 00 220 4472190 Email: dgg@gcaa.aero www.gcaa.aero

Elegance January 2013

Living Life with faith doesn’t mean your ship will not face troubled waters, it means that you ship will not sink.

The road to success is always under construction.

Never quit! It gives those who stand with you too much pain and those who stand against you too much satisfaction. 29

Elegance January 2013

Regina Manneh How she made it to the

runway

hen Regina Manneh embarked on the journey of discovering her calling, she was convinced that what the mind of man (or woman) can conceive and believe, the mind of man can achieve. She had always wanted to become a model since childhood, but her parents stood in her way because she was living in Ivory Coast, in Africa, where “modeling industry is seen as not a viable domain”. From secondary to high school, lots of people thought Regina was a model, because she possesses the genetic material of a model as she was acting like one and was always well dressed. “I went back to Sweden in 2009 to continue my education and then I asked again my parents if I could do modeling,

Elegance January 2013

and they finally said ‘yes’,” the Danishborn model told Elegance magazine. The gate for Regina’s entry into a world of fame was opened with the green light given by her parents to pursue her dream and she embarked on finding the right model agencies through which she could start the practice of her cherished career to hone her skills in it and achieve success in life. “I did lots of research of model agencies and sent few random pictures but not professional,” the 178-centimetre tall lady explains. “Lots of model agencies refused me but I still had hope and continued sending pictures to other agencies. I was also told in Europe that for blacks it wasn’t that easy to get into the industry. “I went to Paris to meet a famous designer called XULY BET who is my mother’s cousin to get an advice about

the industry. He was straight and told me it was not going to be easy but still had faith on me.” Regina continued her struggle in the search of a model agency she could get a foothold and nurture her dream, since dreams are the hallmark of hope and endogenous growth. She finally got one agency called Megan Model Agency, which accepted her and let her do some training. “I went for modeling school for just two weeks to learn the catwalk and to pose in front of photographers,” the 23-year-old says, adding: “My first fashion show was for ZARA, followed by GINA TRICOT and BJORN BORG, etc; they are big Swedish brands.” Regina moved to Dubai in July 2011 to have a long holiday without thinking about modeling, just to relax with the family.

The first key to become a successful model is, you have to love what you are doing, put your heart and mind into it. In September, she sent her portfolio to few model agencies in Dubai, and less than a week she had a feedback from Diva Model Agency that they wanted to meet with her to sign a contract. “After a week, I had Dubai Fashion Week Spring 2012 casting and I went,” Regina explains. “There were so many beautiful tall models. It was my first time; so I lost hope and told mum: ‘The way I see the girls I might not be taken.’ When it was my turn to walk in front of the Creative Director Simon Lock, he was really hard on me and when I finished I told my mother: ‘Let’s go I know I did not make it because he was very hard on me’ but mum was still giving me hope. “After three days, my agency called to tell me I was qualified that in two days I should go to Dubai Fashion Week Media Conference. At the conference the Creative Director Simon Lock was the sweetest guy I have ever met. I guess he was hard on me because he had to meet a lot of models and couldn’t smile with everyone.” Regina said that around 149 models went for the Dubai Fashion Week Casting and only 30 models were qualified and she was one of those that qualified. The tall and slender beauty gives a cursory memory of her new experience in the world of modeling when she took part in the Fashion Week of October 2011. “It was a hard week of 9 days including the fitting.

”

I had 3 shows a day so I had to be getting up at 7am and getting home at 12am everyday. “I had my 22nd birthday on the runway, but luckily I had the family and friends to be at the Fashion Show to wish me a Happy Birthday.” This fashion week of great success followed another - the Emirates Fashion Week Commercial – Regina did and considered to be her longest Catwalk in Dubai. The queen of the runway, who has done wonders in many fashion shows around the world, has this piece of advice for would-be models: “Lots of people think I have a glamour’s life and always having fun, while behind that it’s a very hard job wearing the highest heels, needing to hurry up to change the outfit, posing for hours in front of the camera, always eating healthy food, and going to the gym. “It’s true I wear the most expensive outfits for photo shoot, but I do return it back, I don’t keep them. Even at the moment I do get a lot of rejections because it’s the client who always decides what kind of models he or she wants. You as a model shouldn’t get mad, because there are many other clients who need you. Confidence and a strong will are the best weapons of self-defence in this high-pace. “The first key to become a successful model is, you have to love what you are doing, put your heart and mind into it.”

Elegance January 2013

Reasons

Gambia to visit the

The Gambia is becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Here are ten reasons why you should visit the smiling coast.

1 2 3 4 5

The Gambia is the kind of holiday destination suitable for every type of vacation, whether it is a summer vacation for the entire family or a romantic getaway for honeymooners.

The beaches of The Gambia are great places to frolic in the warm water and get oneself a golden tan. In addition to this, they also offer plenty of entertainment options, with activities like surfing, fishing or just making sand castles! The Gambia has an enviable climate and for those seeking some sun and sand, The Gambia becomes an excellent vacation option for escaping the winter with average temperature of 24 to 31 degrees centigrade. Yet another excellent reason to go to The Gambia is to see and experience historic slave towns that inspired classic films such as Alex Hayley’s Roots .

The Gambian people have a vibrant culture with flourishing festivals. The Roots festival , Kanilai Festival and a range of festivals will keep you entertained no matter what time of the year you visit.

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6 7 8 9 10

Gambia is a great travel destination for bird enthusiasts. With over 100 spieces of beautiful and rate birds, you may need extra notepads to record all the beautiful birds in the country.

Also, The Gambia has an assortment of accommodation options to fit almost every budget with luxury hotels lining the coast, and affordability and industry being the mainstay of the Senegambia coast. Gambia has the friendliest people you’ll ever met. Honestly, it is not called the Smiling Coast for no reason. If you want to meet happy people, then Gambia is the place.

The Gambia is uncommercialised and virtually untouched. Tourism plays an import role and employs a lot of locals. If you want to visit somewhere were the locals really benefit, this is the place Affordability : The Gambia is an affordable holiday choice. You don’t have to dig deep down into your pocket to enjoy tranquility, sunshine and sea.

Elegance January 2013

Prudent Trust Introduces Gambia’s First Escrow Service

Niania D. Touray (MD, Prudent Trust) & Benjamin Roberts (Dir. Gen, GTB)

Alieu Bah &KalifaFaal

M.O. Faal, B.S.M. Conteh, &MaremeMbayeNdiaye

FatouNjie, HaronaDrammeh, &ChilelSarr

Maizie & Deen

Mohamad Edi Faal&ChilelSarr

Niania&BintaJanneh

Niania, Dapo, Jacob, &Mohamad

MaremeMbayeNdiaye (MD, Ecobank Gambia)

A new service that is out to protect all parties involved in the sale of property or vehicle, as well as facilitate the transfer of money and ownership rights between a buyer and seller has been introduced in The Gambia. Prudent Trust Company Limited launched The Gambia’s first Escrow service at a ceremony held recently at its head office in Fajara. The occasion brought together senior government officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Employment, heads of other organisations as well as business tycoons in the country. Prudent Trust is a private investment management firm specializing in wealth management, real estate management, business advisory, and escrow and trust services, with offices in the US and The Gambia. The Escrow service will be the first of its kind to operate in The Gambia. In her remarks on the occasion, Prudent Trust’s Managing Director Niania D. Touray says Prudent Trust’s research has uncovered that there was a need for escrow services in The Gambia. The introduction of an escrow service company in the Gambian market, she notes, will help to bridge the trust gap between buyers and sellers

in transactions by adding more certainty in decreasing risks, thus keeping more money and deals in the country. Madam Touray says escrow services are costeffective and reduce legal costs associated with the sale of property. She also introduced Prudent Trust staff and its resident Escrow officer O.T.A. Roberts, who is a certified accountant of 35-year working experience as an accountant and financial controller with Gambia Airways and the Methodist Church. Mohamad Edi Faal, a practicing Attorney based in Washington, DC, who is Prudent Trust’s General Counsel, gave an overview of the escrow process and highlighted its benefits to clients.

Escrow services protects all parties involved in a transaction, such as the sale of property or vehicle, by acting as a neutral, independent third party to facilitate the transfer of money and ownership rights between a buyer and seller, Mr Faal said, adding that escrow is standard in all large transactions in the United States and Europe. Mr Faal is the son of the distinguished Gambian Attorney and Barrister Edi M.O. Faal, who is the founder and chairman of Prudent Trust.

Abdoulie Hydara of Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency said The Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA) is the national agency responsible for promoting and facilitating private sector investment, export development and support to MSMEs. GIEPA’s role is to attract and facilitate investment in The Gambia as mandated by the Gambia government. “We also amongst other things serve as an interface between the private and public sector, advise government and support initiatives to improve the quality of the investment climate,” Mr Hydara said. “GIEPA promotes international fundamental values of doing business amongst which are, transparency, the rule of law and essential security for the prosperity of businesses.” The acceptance of these values is extremely important in the creation and maintenance of a welcoming and conducive environment for the conduct of businesses, he noted. Senior officials of Elegance Magazine and Mediamatic were also in attendance at the launching. By Njie Baldeh

Binta Ceesay

Pa Njie (MD, Trust Bank Ltd.), Niania, &Mohamad

Harona Drammeh (Mediamatic)

Mohamad Edi Faal

H. Touray (Pristine Consulting), M. Jagana (JFIN & Pres. GCCI), & M.L. Jarju (Pristine Consulting)

“Prudent Trust’s Escrow service will be the first of its kind to operate in The Gambia.” Elegance January 2013

34 Some of the attendees

Edward Graham (MD, SSHFC)

Niania & Dapo (MD, Access Bank Gambia)

OusmanNjie (Standard Chartered), Pa Njie, & Hon. Minister of Trade KebbaTouray

Elegance January 2013

Prudent Trust Team (Mohamad, Bernard, Jacob, Niania, and Abu Bakr)

Gambia’s Former Premier League Star Mark Bright

Atlanta all white Party 2012

ambia’s former Premier League Star Mark Bright is an unsung hero of the great nation of The Gambia. Now retired, Mark was a star player in the English football league, in which he did wonders by rising from a second division league player level to becoming a Premier League star. In speaking to Elegance magazine in this exclusive interview, the Golden Boot awardee said: “I just joined in with the Scorpions players on the pitch for training. I don’t think any of the players knew who I was even though I had played in two FA Cup finals and a league cup final, and scored lots of goals in the Premier League.” In this interview, Mark tells us more.

Elegance: I first and foremost want to thank you on behalf of the management and staff of Elegance Magazine for granting us this interview. Can you tell Elegance magazine readers who is Mark Bright? Mark: Yes, firstly, thank you for inviting me to be on your magazine. Mark Bright is a former Premier League professional football player. EM: Mark Bright is a name not too common to all Gambians at home. Tell us the connection that you have with The Gambia. Mark: My connection with The Gambia is through my father, who is a Gambian by decent. Our family name is Oakes-Bright, but I’ve never used the Oakes as I didn’t know until later in life what my family background was. EM: Football is the world’s most popular sport. Tell us what made you join the sport. Mark: From being a small boy all I ever wanted to do, was play football. At school Elegance January 2013

I used to day dream in the classroom of scoring goals or playing in the FA Cup final. It’s hard to explain how much I wanted to be a footballer. EM: There are many kinds of sport out there for one to do or engage in. Tell us why you chose football instead of the others? Mark: Like most sportsmen and women, I was good in most sports at school like Rugby, Cricket, Basketball, and athletics, but my heart was set on being a footballer; there was never any chance of me playing another sport professionally. EM: It has been quite a journey for you from the lowest level with non-league Leek Town in 1981, to play at the highest level in the Premier League within a short time playing abroad. Can you tell us how all that came about? Mark: Yes I went to Switzerland to play for a team named FC Sion. It’s a beautiful part of the country, Le Valais. I really enjoyed the short time I was there. I only stayed around four months because of contractual complications, as the president didn’t keep his promise and I had to return to England to get a club. After I retired I went back to visit Sion on my motorbike; I rode down through France and over the boarder to visit the area. EM: It ends where it all began for you in England having returned from abroad to go back to English football in 1997 to play

for Charlton Athletic. What impact does the decision to play abroad have on your game? Mark: Just the few months I was in Switzerland was very interesting for me. I had to attend college three times a week to learn French. The coach of the football team was an Italian named Alberto Bigon, who had previously coached Napoli in Serie A and won the league title with Maradona in the team; so I learnt a lot, from diet, to training differently, to culture, to language. I have no regrets going to Sion; it was a life experience. EM: You played as a centre forward during your time and scored a lot of goals in your career. After a spell working in a factory to a part-timer at Leek then to Port Vale, a club that had previously released you from their youth team at the age of 16. Tell us what went wrong for you in your previous stint with the club. Mark: Basically I wasn’t good enough at 16 and the club made the right decision to release me. Playing for Leek Town developed me into a stronger better player, because I was playing against experienced players, men not 16-year-old boys like I was in Port Vale’s youth team. EM: You earned the Golden Boot for the highest scorer in the Second Division in the 87/88 season with 24 goals and your efforts in the following season took you past the half century of league goals for the club. It was your crashing drive at the start of the 37

Elegance January 2013

second-half that began Palace’s recovery against Liverpool in the FA Cup semi-final and ultimately helped them to get to the final. Looking back at that glory moments, how would you describe that today? Mark: They are moments that I treasure; fans still remember the FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool in 1990. It was the first time the FA Cup semi-finals were shown live in England on television. Liverpool had beaten Crystal Palace 9-0 earlier in the league; so the whole country was expecting Liverpool to win, but we won 4-3 in extra time. It was at the time, the proudest moment in my life. Winning the Golden boot is something every striker wants to win. I only won it once; so it’s something I’m proud of. EM: You have also played in the top-flight English football as Palace were impressive in Division One throughout the 90/91 season. What was the feeling like to be still associated with such a success? Mark: Gaining promotion to the top league (now called the Premier League) was fantastic. It gave me and the rest of the team a chance to play against the best teams in the country. Players like David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Eric Cantana, etc, so to finish 3rd in one of the best leagues in Europe gave me great satisfaction. Add to that, when Ian Wright departed to Arsenal it wasn’t easy playing without him but he went onto great success and we have remained great friends. EM: Can you explain to us whether you were for once been approached by the Gambian authorities to play for The Gambia. If no, were you ever interested in donning the shirt of the Scorpions? Mark: I first came to The Gambia in 1996 when I was playing with Sheffield Wednesday. My uncle arranged for me to train at the national stadium one night with the squad. The coach was a German coach; he asked me after 10mins who I played for, and when I told him, he smiled and said he could tell that I was a professional. It was not a trial or anything; I just joined in with the players on the pitch. I don’t think any of the players knew who I was even though I’d played in two FA Cup finals and a league cup final, and scored lots of goals in the Premier League.

the Palace academy with the 10 to 16-year-old strikers at the club in the academy. It’s something I really enjoy, but as for being a manager, it has never really appealed to me. EM: How would you describe being a footballer and life after it and also can you explain to us the six half marathons that you have completed since retirement in 1999? Mark: Football is the best job in the world; you get paid very well for something that you would play for free with your mates every weekend. To explain what it feels like: imagine all those kids and men who play every evening on the beach in Banjul, imagine they get paid to do what they love to do. I’ve run 4 marathons and 6 half marathons, all after I’d retired from football. I ran most for charity and to keep fit. I used to love to run but I can’t run much now due to a hip problem. I only started playing golf after I’ve finished playing football in 1999; so I am a late starter but I love it, I play at Fajara Golf Club whenever I come over. EM: Can you tell us about your private life, your marriage with British singer and actress Michelle Gayle in 2001 in Las Vegas? Mark: Yes I was married to British pop star/ actress/author Michelle Gayle. She’s half Jamaican half Grenadian. We have a child together called Isaiah. We all came out together to The Gambia when we were together, and since we broke up, I have been out to The Gambia with my son; he likes The Gambia. Of course I and Michelle remain good friends, life has its ups and downs but it’s important to be happy; she is and I am now. EM: Do you still have contact with some of your family members back in The Gambia? Mark: Yes I’ve been to The Gambia lots of times. I have a Gambian passport and ID card. I love it there. I’ve stayed at lots of hotels: the Atlantic Hotel, Senegambia, Sheraton, Coconut Residence, but my favourite hotel is the Coco Ocean Resort and Spa. It’s really good and we got looked after very well there, the staff were fantastic. The last time I was over was for my aunty’s funeral; it was a sad affair, plus my other aunt passed away this year; so it hasn’t been a great time. I Skype and email my cousins and uncles. I hope to

Football is the best job in the world; you get paid very well for something that you would play for free with your mates everyweekend EM: Why did you decide to become a football pundit, unlike many former footballers who are interested in taking up a job as a coach? Mark: I did my coaching badges when I was still playing. I used to help out at Sheffield Wednesday academy when I was playing for Wednesday and I decided to go into the media after football. I still enjoy helping out at Elegance January 2013

be over in January 2013, I was meant to come with my sister and son last year but my son was sick at the airport and they had to get our bags off the plane. We were both disappointed in not being able to come but it was just one of those things that happen. EM: Which Senegambian musician do you like and do you also enjoy the Gambian food? Mark: I love Gambian food, my aunty used to cook fish/chicken Benachin for me. I love Jollof rice I could eat everyday, and I love the smoked fish. I always go to the market in Banjul and have Caftan outfits made and buy gifts to take back to England. I have taken my son to St James Island and to the Crocodile Pool; I want him to understand his roots. The music I must confess I haven’t bought into yet. I tend to listen if someone is playing on the beach etc; it’s my next task. I did go to the Premier of Mirror Boy when it was on in London, I thought it was good. It was great to see The Gambia and places I had visited on the big screen. EM: How can you help à life-style Gambian magazine like Elegance? Mark: This is a good question. In this social media age I have reached 76,000 people worldwide plus Facebook & Twitter. I will do my best to promote good things for The Gambia and Elegance Magazine, which showcases the positive image of our great nation.

Elegance January 2013

Maizie Blain Deen Architect of new looks The US-trained cosmetologist said since she opened her salon in October 2011 its progress so far has been good. “This is because I was really nervous when I came to The Gambia, as I saw lots of people wearing wigs. And I was like saying: ‘Oh my God, did I make the right move?!’ But I have been having clients and I love maintaining their hair. So far it has been good - thank God.” Maizie, who has one trainee at the moment, Mariam Bojang, working with her at the salon called Maizie’s Salon, said she could do all types of hair excellently. “I like working on all types of hair,” she says. “When I was in school they taught us how to do all types of hair - black, white, Caucasian, Chinese, you name it; ne thing that the ‘angels’ of this so it doesn’t matter, as long as the style earth will never stop nurturing is complements your face and looks, then their beauty looks. Women all over that’s it, I will come up with what’s good for the world want to look pretty, charming, you. glamorous, attractive and beautiful. And “I also enjoy working on short hair because I one thing that gives them that beauty is their think it’s more fun.” hairstyle. Giving advice on the dos and don’ts of Maizie Blain Deen, a Gambian who did her hairstyle, Maizie has one premise: ‘If it Cosmetology studies in the US, is just a doesn’t suit you don’t do it.’ right hairstylist and beauty professional who “This is because the face is divided into touches the lives of many people every day three fronts,” the Gambian hairstylist says, as she continues to make her clients not “from your hairline to your eyebrow, from only look beautiful, but also feel beautiful. your eyebrow to the tip of your nose, and How does she do this at her beauty salon from the nose to your chin.” parlour located in Bijilo, a cool, relaxed She says further: “So the perfect shape, and residence-business expanse, within which is the over-shaped, supposed to be the heartland of The Gambia’s tourism three, three, three.” development area? Maizie explains: “In Maizie, who however recommends wearing the salon, we do everything about hair, lace wigs, says the best for hair fashioners including the health of the hair. I have good is maintaining natural hairstyles. “I think so, products, from the relaxer all the way to because the clients coming into the salon the sheen. That’s what most people have are losing their hairline and I think if you been complaining about that if you go to the maintain your hair, that’s what sticks with salons they don’t use good products. you for the rest of your life, unless you want “So I make sure that coming home I provide to wear wigs for the rest of your life time. good service with professionalism and good “I think every one should maintain their hair; products to keep the hair healthy. Since wigs are supposed to be something you I came back to The Gambia most of the wear only if your hair is bad or you are bored people wearing wigs I have seen and talked with your hair and want to look different, but with have been complaining that there are wigs are really running down people’s hair.” no salons in the country to keep their hair As it is in all jobs and services, healthy; so they end up wearing wigs. professionalism is key in the service of “So I have been getting clients who are cosmetology. “Be professional,” Maizie trying to get rid of wigs and maintain their advises young hairstylists. “When you natural hair. The response has been really become a hairstylist it’s good to have good and I have clients coming for that experience; it’s good to know the health of cause; they love their hair feel, and their the hair, the products you are using, how hairlines have been growing all because of you apply the products, the timing and all the products and the way I do hair - to be the right stuffs and steps are necessary.” honest with you.” The eighteenyear experienced My next goal is to open a professional beauty school to cosmetologist teach not only girls to do cornrows and wigs but also girls and boys interested in becoming cosmetologists, for says she plans

ELEGANCE COUPLE of the year 2012

Elegance January 2013

Mr. and Mrs Gee Koitala London, England

them to be professional in doing hair and maintaining healthy hair.

to establish a beauty school in the nottoo-distant future, to impart knowledge and skills of the art of hairstyle into the younger generation who want to venture into cosmetology, especially hairstyle, which will involve both male and female youths. “My next goal,” she says, “is to open a professional beauty school to teach not only girls to do cornrows and wigs but also girls or boys interested in becoming cosmetologists, for them to be professional in doing hair and maintaining healthy hair. So I think my next move will be to open a beauty school – Inshallah.” Maizie says she would like to penetrate the Senegalese fashion market as Senegal has the beauty, the hairstyles, the fashion, she also fancies. “I would love to be involved in the Senegalese market and hair shows; even if it is once a week or every month,” Maizie says, adding: “I also see that fashion in Senegal is good, and it is amazing because fashion goes with hair.” While extolling Elegance Magazine for its promotion of the fashion and style industry of The Gambia and as the leading lifestyle magazine in the country, Maizie also says she would like readers of the magazine to maintain their natural hair “because that’s what sticks with you for the rest of your life.”

Elegance January 2013

Jim Iyke

Speaks to Elegance Magazine Elegance:Hey Jim whats up? Jim: Hmmmm cool just chilling.

ames Ekechukwu Esomugha, popularly known as Jim Iyke, is a renowned Nigerian artist and musician who visited The Gambia recently as part of his UN ambassadorial mission called African Child Column Discovery Foundation (ACTDF), which is out to identify underprivileged children in Africa for education sponsorship by the UN. Jim Iyke, who hails from Enugu Agidi Village of Anambra state in Eastern Nigeria, has featured in over 200 Nigerian films. The Jos university graduate of philosophy has presently produced two international movies called Ebony and Good Evening with internationally renowned actresses Judy Shekoni and Tangerine Martins. While in The Gambia, Jim spoke to Elegance Magazine about his involvement in the art of movie, his plans about marrying and his mission to the country and across Africa. Here, following, are excerpts of the interview.

Elegance January 2013

EM: We would like to ask, how did you get into acting and what were the challenges you faced as an actor? Jim: Wow! I was bored. My kind of person I like to keep myself mentally and physically fit for anything. When I was graduating from the University of Jos the next move was to get my Masters, and get my life going, because as of then I was extremely young. I think it is because of that people really don’t know my age. I was barely 20 years old when I broke into the movie industry. First of all I said to myself that I am not going to do small roles, I was offered many roles but I said no; to me I wanted something more challenging. EM: Which movie would say made you famous? Jim: I will say “One Dollar”. I have been to some countries where they recognised me because of the movie. A man approached me in New York a certain time and said ‘Are you not the Nigerian actor in One Dollar?’ It was so amazing – One Dollar alone sold over 1 million copies. I ready the scene in that movie over 5 times, and that is why some times the act of 5 seconds can some times make the history of a thousand years. The script was totally different from what I acted in the movie and that was where my major breakthrough came from and in that movie I was dealing with Mama G, who is a veteran actress, but I thank God he saw me through it. EM: Is there any new movie you are currently working on right now and when is it coming out? Jim: Yes, I have untamed production I just finished two films a year ago, and now I am producing a new movie in Cameroun, but not certain yet when it will be out but soon it will. And I have another one. I and Uche Jumbo co-produced it; it is called “Love and Wine”. By the grace of God I am trying building an empire. EM: Now the big question: is Jim Iyke married, if not, why? And when should we expect your wedding? Jim: It’s crazy about the speculation about my life you know. I have heard a lot. I made a movie a certain time and

there was a wedding in that movie and I think someone within the production team took pictures of the scene and went ahead to publish it on the internet that I was married. I have been married like 3 times in the media, I have been separated about 4 times. I have been engaged about 5 – 6 times. I have been dead about 3 times. I have been stabbed like over 10 times. I have been broke about 5 times. At the end one significant word for these is called “Hype”. The day I will get married - trust me - they will know but for now let them keep speculating. But one thing is sure I am not going to wed in Nigeria so that all these witches and wizards can rest. My take on why I think I’m yet to settle down? You need to learn to corner me, not push me but impose in certain areas to make it work. I’m a good strategist in many spheres of life but I’m not sure I can bring to bear the same authority in relationships. You got to be more of the guardian, and I the follower. I am supremely confident in many fine qualities that depict me the man and pathfinder of the union, but the pace and velocity must be configured by my significant half. Different strokes for different folks. I have always deemed myself an unorthodox Ibo man and my philosophy in a

union doesn’t differ in that mold. EM: Can you tell us the purpose of your visit to The Gambia? Jim: I was recently made the ambassador of a company that’s affiliated with the UN; so by all terms and purposes I am an UN ambassador. So I am on a mission; it’s called ACTDF, acronym for African Child Column Discovery Foundation. We have been mandated to identify 40 kids across the continent to a UN Convention that is happening sometime in the ending of August, and make a case for them for free sponsorship to any level they aspire to go to. During my visit I also met Lamin Manga of Unique FM radio and Lady Chilel, and so many other inspirational people, whose singular purpose is to empower the youth, emancipate the youth of The Gambia.

rate; it will be in the market very soon, we are trying. We are trying to create a very enabling atmosphere where people in The Gambia can know the couture of our design; they are of the highest quality and yet they are of affordable prices. They will be made available very soon. EM: What do you have to tell your fans in The Gambia? Jim: There is one thing I have learnt in The Gambia; that is the support of the people

and the way they embraced me, the beauty of the people and their support for me. They totally embraced not only my brand but me as a person. EM: Thank you Jim for giving us the opportunity to have this beautiful chat with you. Jim: Thank you too Elegance magazine, the pleasure is all mine. All the best.

“The people of The Gambia are inspirational and it is something that will connect me physically, mentally and psychology.”

EM: Have you any plan to engage in business apart from movie production in The Gambia? Jim: Yes I am a businessman, I am into real estate and I deal with cars and I am also into fashion. I own a line called Untamed Closet and recently with Sirra’s Fashion, we have decided to introduce the Untamed brand into The Gambia. It’s a line of corporate suits, classic suits, shoes, T-Shirts and shirts. I exclusively designed the Untamed brand by myself. It’s going to be available by a very reasonable 43

Elegance January 2013

Elegance Styles

Elegance January 2013

Thocomar Gambia Ltd. 26 Ecowas Ave | PO Box: 1213, Banjul, Gambia | Phone: +220 422-4211 | Fax: +220 422-4211

Elegance January 2013

n life not all what is expedient that is right and not all what is right that is expedient; so always do what is right. This fact applies to love or romantic relationship as much as it applies to every other thing in life. Elegance magazine was faced with the question of why parents interfere with the love relationship of their children, especially their daughters, to the point of making marital choice for them. So the views of some people from various walks of life were sampled on this life-touching issue of relationships. A case in point is the experience of Fatou Jobe, born and schooled in The Gambia, and studied at a university in the US, where she later hooked up with someone she loved before returning home. Read on:

WHY SHOULD MY PARENTS INTERFERE?

My name is Fatou Jobe, born and raised in the Gambia by my two lovely, caring and very respectable parents. I really love my Mum and Dad, and sometimes I had a very difficult moments thinking of whom I really love between them. I was in my mother’s womb for nine months; she brought me to this world, breastfed me and took a very good care of me. I was named after my grandmother, my father’s mum, Ya Fatou Mbye. At times my parents used to call me ‘Yayi Bayam’, meaning my father’s mum. For my father, he gave me all the love and care that a child should have from a parent. I was given all the support, particular in my education and career. My father took me to the best primary school and high school in The Gambia and later to the United States of America to attain my university education. Both my parents never wanted to see me unhappy. My father used to sit me on his laps. I could recall as far as when I was 12 years old and he said to me: ‘Fatou you are my only child, and a girl child for that matter; I will give you the best in your entire life, and will never see to it that you fancy your peers.’ These were his words, and my parents had never failed a promise made to me. During those days, I was the happiest girl in our community and I had everything that a child would need. They gave me the best training, and the best education that is expected from a parent. Elegance January 2013

I’m very proud to say that, my mother gave me the training required of all domestic chores that a girl should be given, like washing, ironing, cooking, etc. Before going to the US, I used to cook my father’s favourite dish, “Plasass”. After the meal he would call both my mother and myself and say he had a present for the champion cook in the house. He would then take me to the supermarket and buy me so many things including ice cream, which really is my favourite. My mother used to be very happy and she would smile and always say to my father: ‘I’m proud that I taught your champion how to cook’….Wonderful days! When I was in the US, l met with a young Gambian man. I fell in love with this guy. He is 4 years older than me. We stayed together at the same state, in Washington, for 5 years. I never love a guy more than this guy. He took me to concerts, parties, shopping malls, restaurants and to anywhere you expect a man to take his woman. He always made me happy; he knew everything I like and dislike. I knew my favourite food, colours, the size of my shoe, etc. In 2007, I came back home. I started working and after 6 months I decided that I should get married. Luckily enough, this guy came back home and before I discussed with him about it he proposed to me. I was the happiest woman in this world that moment. I immediately said to myself that there is no time to waste, and then I took the young man to my parents for introduction. During the course of the introduction we spent almost 2 hours with my parents, enjoying eating and chatting. When the young man went home, the following day after work, my parents called me to have a discussion with me. My father then asked me: ‘Whom do you say that you want to marry to? If it is that young man, forget it, he is not your type’. I got frozen at the moment, I had the biggest blow on my face, and I could not say anything, I was just looking at my parents. I asked my father, ’Dad what are you saying? He said to me: “Exactly what you have heard’. I looked at my Mum, and before saying anything to my Mum, she said: ‘Look young lady, we want the best for you’. I even said to my mum, ‘The best my ass!’ which I’m still regretting. For so many days I locked myself inside my room; I could not sleep and could not eat anything. I could only drink. I did not go to work for a month. I was even given a warning at my workplace. I started to wonder about so many things, and asking myself several questions, like: Do my parents still love me? Are they just pretending that they love me? Why are they doing this to me? Do they want to punish me? Should they

decide for me whom to marry to? Whenever I think of these and think about the past, it gives me confusing thoughts. I was really confused at that time. Some friends would say to me that you are old enough, nobody should decide for you, even your parents. I wasn’t trained to disrespect or disobey elders, especial my parents. But why are they interfering in my love affairs, that they had theirs already. Should I choose the one I love and want to spend my entire life with or they should choose for me. These were the questions I was pondering over. And whenever I ask them to explain to me the reasons for their decision, they would say they are not satisfied with the guy. I would say to myself, ‘That is not a justifiable reason. At a moment I even decided to go back to the US and never come back to The Gambia. Since then, I’m single, because the young man was the only guy I loved. For almost three years I and my parents never talked about this guy, but I was still going out with him, whilst he had stopped coming to my house. I later sat in my room thinking of so many things, and I remembered a statement my lovely father used to make, which is, a child can stand on the highest mountain look around and see nothing, whilst an elderly person can sit on the lowest chair and see everything. For days I was thinking about it. Then I said to myself that it is worth investigating and I have to talk to elders to know why parents interfere, with the love relationship or dating of their children.

AN IMAM’S viewpoint Islamically-speaking, it depends on the maturity

and the age of the girl. In Islam if the girl is under 18, 25 or 30 years, if she has never got married, the opinion of the parents is very critical, simply because Islam has given the parents a lot of responsibilities to their daughter. Each and every daughter will accept the fact that she owes an obligation to her parents and those obligations are to be rewarded, financially, morally, in terms of respect and obedience. There is no doubt, that the girl’s choice is very important. Islam advises the girl to follow the advice of her parents. Since the girl in question has never been married, she is considered, Islamically, a virgin girl, unless and until she is proven otherwise. Islam advises the girl to listen to her parents and Islam gives the parents responsibility to be advising and guiding the girl on the right path of Islam but not to go beyond. Beyond means, there are basic principles that control the parent also. Who is this man who wants to marry my daughter? Question No. 1. Is he a Muslim? Yes. Is he responsible enough? Yes. Is he financially strong that he will be able to take care of a wife? Yes. Is he a

practising Muslim? Yes. Is he in a good state of that love. mind? Yes. If all these questions are answered positively, then Islam agrees to give the girl to this man with the consent of the parents. Then the parents have no basic religious reasons for First of all, I would say the lady should calm refusal. down and be careful, because elders are not God but they have been here for long with God. The holy prophet made it very clear. He Both her parents were here before her and the said ‘Wain ata cunman tarrdawna dinahuwa world is so critical that she doesn’t know why khuhuhu fashaw fijuhu ila tahu fitna’. He said her parents refused. I have witnessed a case, if it comes to a man whom you know, you are which a man who stays in America wanted a satisfied with his Islamic practices and his girl’s hand in marriage, and they did everything attitude ‘Houkh’ yes and he takes the hand of and the girl went to America to her husband. your daughter, please give him your daughter, When the girl got pregnant and delivered they if not there will be trouble. Trouble means here sent for her mother to babysit the baby. The 1. Your relationship with your own daughter mother arrived and found out that both the will fall down. 2. the daughter might be strong man and the girl are from the same father. headed enough to try to sort out herself in a Elders are really good in making decisions. She way that you will not be satisfied with and at should know that her parents want the best for the same time you will lose the respect of your her; they made a good foundation for her and son-in-law, who would have been in a better everything as she said. position to assist you than even your daughter. Elders are elders; it is good to listen to them. And at the same time you may not be able to Many a time when ladies force their way into stop that marriage and still the marriage can go some relationships, they later suffer a lot and all ahead, and now if that marriage goes ahead, these are due to not taking advice from elders. what you don’t want to happen, had happened; She has to be very careful, because the guy that’s a ‘Fitna’. Tomorrow you may see that was born here, and later travelled, and her your daughter is being abused and you will not parents know better. have any religious right to step in and solve that problem; that man can tell you that you did not Sometimes they do say a child can stand on give me your daughter, your daughter gave me the highest mountains, looks over and sees herself or the Cadi gave me your daughter, that nothing, whilst an elderly person can sit down is a ‘Fitna’ too. on the lowest chair and sees everything. However, parents sometimes do make And the other ‘Fitna’ is if you refuse to legalize mistakes by saying that the guy asking for it, they can do idolatry or fornication whereas my daughter‘s hand in marriage is a Gewel, illegitimate child can be produced. In this or Tekka. If you go to the Blood Bank at the case Islam is advising the parents to use the hospital, you will not see blood that belongs yardstick of Islam to accept or reject. to either casts. If you go to Mecca, or to the In many cases parents don’t reject anybody mosque, or to the cemetery there is no place for based on Islam or religion; they reject based either cast. on traditional believes like he is a ‘Tehka’, or ‘Oudaay’, or he is from a different tribe. So if that These are all trades and professions and were is the case I’ll seize this opportunity to advise identified by the elders. Gewel, Tekka or Gerr the parents to go back to their religion and talk doesn’t exist anywhere and is not a genuine to their religious leaders to enlighten them to reason for refusal. They are all Muslims, they understand the limitation of their powers as far pray to the same God, read the same Quran as their daughters are concerned. and God has told us the ways that we should At the same time I’ll advise the daughter to have give our children’s hand in marriage. respect and regard as long as these parents There are so many cases of these nature and are worthy to be parents. elders would go and try to solve it by talking to the parents of either party. Worthy to be parents in a sense, that they are And such problems had been here for so long, religious, they believe God, they suffered a lot since the time of the Holy Prophet. For instance, for her, they were there for her before today; Khaddijatou’s case was similar to this one. so she should be there for them. If these Khaddijatou’s father refused, by saying many parents just rejected this man for no genuine things, and she made her way to make sure acceptable reason, then the daughter has that the marriage took place without having any all the right to take the matter to a Cadi or a problems with her father. renowned religious leader, who can step in and So my advice to this young lady is for her to mediate in the relationship, so that they can go to some elders or Muslim elders within her get what they want without lots of trouble. If that community, so they can go and talk to her failed they may come up with another solution. parents and tell them what the Quran says and A young man and a young woman, when they try to convince them. love each other, it is always difficult to break And for the parents, let them not make their

Through the eyes of AJI AWA CHAM

daughter suffer, because she is in love, and sometimes when they refuse, other problems occur, such as pregnancy before marriage.

A VICTIM’s perception (Anonymous)

Love is hard, if you are in love with a guy, any odds you are told against that guy, you will not be happy, because you haven’t seen anything other than love. I always think that, in life if a guy is going out with a lady and they love each other, if they decide to marry, the best thing is for the parents to allow them to get married. If the parents do interfere and say that my daughter will not marry the guy, the parents should tell their child the reason or reasons for their refusal so that the lady can know what to do. If only they hate the guy and could not say any genuine reason for their refusal, it is always hard with the lady, because she sees nothing other than love. Parents sometime base their refusal on certain beliefs, that if the guy is not financially strong sometimes they refuse. For me I have never seen somebody who is financially rich and want to marry a girl and the parents refuse. Mostly all the refusal I have always seen is that the guy is not financially strong and the parents would refuse to give the daughter’s hand in marriage. And if you look at it, before the parents got married, sometimes the husband was not financially strong. I use to hear from elders that couples are guided by God the Almighty in terms of what to eat and so on. And I once heard from one of my grandfathers; he was living with him, this man approached him and said, ‘I want to marry, but I don’t have anything’. He responded to the man and said, ‘If you want to wait for that and marry, you will not marry, you always get married and everything will meet you in your marriage’. I had a bitter experience, because when you are in love, want to get marry and the parents refuse, is always difficult and as it is said, who feels it knows it. I can’t really explain to you the way I was feeling, but it is really hard; you can’t see anything other than love. Give your daughter’s hand in marriage to somebody she loves but don’t give it to somebody she does not love. Thank God, I later got married with the same guy my parents refused initially, with the intervention of some elders within my family. For my case, still now, my parents have never revealed the reason for their refusal. That’s why I’m saying, parents should spell out the reason or reasons they always refuse. 47

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combats. So in other words, I have involved in the sport at the highest level for good seven years now. EM: How many combats have you participated in so far in your career? Balla: Well I have participated in quite a lot of combats now since I started as a professional because up until my last fight, I have so far taken part in 21 different combats in the arena. EM: Can you share with us how many victories and defeats have you got so far in your career? Balla: I won quite a significant amount of my combats because of the 21 fights that I have participated in. I secured 19 victories and 2 defeats which came against Essa Puye and Eumeu Sene. I was first defeated by Essa Puye but after that defeat, I had another chance to fight with him and on that second chance, I exerted revenge on him by defeating him. So if you take that into consideration, since I am deadlocked with Puye, I think I will not be wrong to say that I have even suffered only one defeat by Eumeu Sene. Elegance: I first of all want to thank you for granting me this interview. Can you tell Elegance readers who Balla Gueye II is? Balla: My name is Omar Saho but my wrestling name is Balla Gueye II and I have been in wrestling but I am specialised in the Mbabat form of the Lamba until when I became the champion of the arena. I name myself after Balla Gueye, who is also a former wrestler and one of the best in his time and not only that, Balla has been taking care of me since I was 15, looking after me, training me and doing many other things in life for me.

Encounter with

balla gueye II King of Senegalese wrestling and the Arena Balla Gueye II had an encounter with the publisher of Elegance Magazine, Lady Chilel Sarr, during the last edition of AGERA [Atlanta-Gambia Emergency Relief Association] in Atlanta, Georgia, in July this year. Agera is created to have a community in which togetherness will be their motto and unity their passion. So during the 2012 celebrations, Balla had a glance of Elegance Magazine and requested to have one and within no time, he did fall in love with it that he accepted the publisher’s request for an interview. So relax and enjoy the question-and-answer session Elegance and Balla had for its readers.

Elegance January 2013

EM: What caused you to join the sport? Balla: : I have always loved Lamba since I was a child but there are also several other factors that made me take up the sport as a profession. I can remember when I was young, people would put money for us to wrestle and then at the end of the day, the winner would be paid that money in addition to other things given to him even by kind. But also, I can say that it has been an inheritance for me because not only the fact that my namesake was a wrestler, my father also used to practise the sport and later became a champion in the whole of Africa. But most importantly, I can say that wrestling is also my hobby; that is why I took it up as my profession and it is something that I have not regretted. EM: Doing something as a childhood hobby and becoming a professional in it are totally different things. When did Balla Gueye II finally decide to join the arena and take up the sport as his profession? Yes, that is quite true because like I said earlier, I only took it up as a hobby and is also my father’s sport and was involved in it at small-scale level but I officially joined the arena as a professional in 2005 after a couple of practice and small

EM: Would you like to share with our readers why there has always been so much hype whenever Balla Gueye II is about to have a combat? Balla: Well you know we are all Senegambians and in most cases, what is in Senegal cannot exclude The Gambia and vice versa. These two countries almost share everything in common and also the media can play a key role in anything in the world. With the way sport is being regarded in the world now, there is too much hype surrounding it and that hype is always being built by the media. So because people now have more access to different means of media in any part of the world, I would say that the broadcasting of television stations on the satellite around the world play a crucial role. Now many people watch ‘Boray’ and that makes it one of the most popular and most watched sports in Senegambia nowadays. So the hype is part of it, especially me. When I am about to have a combat, I give my competitors hard time and can even force them to make comments that they wouldn’t want to make but would do it under pressure, which makes the date even more interesting. It is just to make fun and also make my fans enjoy my combat more. It is just my strategy; I use it in my games and then again it is God who makes my ‘Boray’ lively. EM: Tell us about how you feel being the king of the arena? Balla: Every wrestler in the arena wants to be the king of it. King of the Arena is the title

“ the King of arene said it CAN take him win a combat just for having the new wife.”

Elegance January 2013

Helen Maroun

He has always been my idol and I used to support him when I was young and idolised him; so for me to get the opportunity to fight against my boyhood hero itself was a great achievement for me and that is why I regarded it as a dream come true that I defeated Tyson.

that would live with someone forever. The feeling that comes with it is just incredible and in a nutshell, it is a lifetime joy. But for us, it is not something new for us because my father has once been the king of the arena; so it is just history repeating itself, and as the saying goes, like father, like son. It also means you are the king of all wrestlers and I wish to hold that title for a very long time and then pass it to my brother, Sakess. EM: People have their own tactics to prepare for a fight, which could be different from each other. Can you tell us how Balla Gueye II prepares himself before a wrestling combat? Balla: I prepare myself very well before any combat, because, we Africans do believe in supernatural powers and prayers. It needs a lot of focus and dedication as well. Also like I said, you wouldn’t know who is looking at you and there is this saying that ‘all eyes are not the same’; so you also need to protect yourself from evil eyes and many other things. That is why in almost all the combats that we wrestlers perform in, we display a lot of the African juju. But the wrestling itself, it is only the individual that makes his own victory and not the jujus. The juju is just serving as a protection and guidance. EM: The name Tyson is not a small name in Senegalese wrestling. Can you share with us your feelings about your defeat of him? Balla: Like you’ve rightly said, there is always a great feeling that goes with things like that and that was why, I was very happy that I defeated him.

EM: Could you please expand more on your visit to Atlanta Georgia? Balla: My sole purpose of visiting the United States is because I came to join the celebrations marking the AGERA festival. My fans, my relatives and my Gambian supporters invited me to celebrate The Gambia’s July 4th celebrations with them, which of course I feel very proud and honoured to be associated with. This is also the first time that I am visiting Atlanta but I hope it will not be the last because I would like to be attending more activities like this...

and would like to say I was happy with the way I was received during my visit in The Gambia to launch Jaliba Kuyateh’s new album. Both my parents are from Cassamance, that means if Gambians are supporting me, then they are supporting their own son and I shall never let them down. EM: Is Balla Gueye II married? Balla: Yes I am married. I have a wife and a son who is two-year-old. EM: How old is Balla himself? Balla: I am 26 years old.

Addendum

This interview was conducted in July, 2012 but Balla Gueye II has since taken up Gambian Hellen Maroun as his second wife. The king of the Senegalese wrestling, on 7 October 2012, wedded Hellen Maroun, daughter of Paul Maroun, a Gambian EM: Since your last combat with business tycoon and proprietor of YEKINI you have not participated in Maroun’s Supermarket. any meaningful combat and it is almost towards the end of the year. Are you are The knot was tied at the Pipeline mosque by Alhaji Pa Njie, Imam of the said expecting more combats this year? mosque. Balla: Balla is in a high demand because Hellen, a 24-year-old Gambian, converted to Islam the same day at everyone would like to fight with me but the Pipeline mosque in the Kanifing the season has closed for me for now, unfortunately. Hopefully when it reopens Municipality before Imam Njie and many other religious leaders and dignitaries. again, I am sure promoters will sign me Her new name is Zainab Maroun-Saho. since everyone wants to fight with me. Balla Gaye II was represented at the The likes of Eumeu Sene are all vying ceremony by his uncle. It would be to fight me but for him, I have told him recalled that Hellen Maroun participated that he is not yet ready to secure a fight in the first Face of Africell competition with me as he will have to wait until he held in 2007. Until her marriage, achieved all that I have achieved in the arena before I agree to fight with him. So Hellen was the manager of Maroun’s Supermarket in Kololi. he has to become the king of the arena On the other hand, the Hellen-Balla first. marriage has led to the departure of the first wife of Balla Gueye II from their EM: You are very much loved in The matrimonial home as reported by the Gambia. Do you have any message for the Gambian people, whose love for you local media in Senegal. When asked about the reported now has reached new heights? Balla: I would want to use this opportunity departure of his wife, Balla only uttered words of praise for his new wife. The to reach out to all Elegance Magazine King of the Arena said it can take him win readers and my Gambian fans at large. a combat just for having the new wife. And also I am a Mandinka and the And his next combat is in June 2013 with same time a Sarahuleh and a son of Tapha Tine, a champion in the making. Cassamance, which means I am also a Gambian because Cassamance and The atch out for that combat! Gambia are the same. I am praying for long life and “Every wrestler in the arena wants to be the king of good health it. King of the Arena is the title that would live with to all the Gambians someone forever. The feeling that comes with it is just incredible and in a nutshell, it is a lifetime joy.”

Elegance January 2013

How to make your man happy in 20 little ways

‘What a man can do, a woman can do better’ Today the world is being reshaped faster than it used to be, more so as gender issues are now considered seriously, especially in the light of women’s potential to wield the affairs of this planet as equally as men can do. What a man can do is quite obvious that a woman can do better, contends Fatou Taal, a banker, who works as senior manager and head of public sector for Access Bank The Gambia Limited, one of The Gambia’s leading financial intermediaries. Speaking about how challenging the banking sector is for women, Ms Taal, who read Business Studies and Marketing from Middlesex University in the UK, said: “The banking sector is dominated by men but we have lots of females at the top level. For example, the institution I work for, we have more women than men; it is a challenge but for me I enjoy it because I believe what a man can do a woman can do better.” Proven to be one of the very hardworking ladies in The Gambia through her trend of growth, Fatou Taal, in her spare time, also enjoys playing basketball and visiting family members together with her only child, an eleven-year-old girl she mostly derives happiness from. Being a single mother and a career woman, Fatou says she balances the two responsibilities well.

“It is very good and interesting being a mother, but I also love the job I am doing; though it’s hectic, it’s a hobby too. I quite balance the two because my daughter is eleven years old, at grade six in Marina International School. I am balancing the two very well because my daughter is old enough to do a lot of things for herself, so I don’t have a problem there and she is the only child I have.” According to the informed banker who has gained a lot of experience working at the Ministry of Trade for two years and at Trust Bank Gambia Ltd for five years before taking up appointment with Access Bank, she also tries very hard to honour other things of life at her leisure time. “I do a lot after work,” she says. “I visit family members, such as my dad; I spend a lot of time with my brother and my child, especially on weekends as we usually go to the village, and sometimes we have family get-together.” Fatou says further: “I also love basketball a lot. I was a basketball player and I was the school captain at Saint Joseph’s High School from form three to form five. Now I have stopped but I am planning to start again.” By Haddija Jawara

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‘‘ Elegance January 2013

“It is very good and interesting being a mother, but I also love the job I am doing; though it’s hectic, it’s a hobby too.”

Just use these 20 tips on how to make your man Don’t forget your inner child. As you grow happy, and you’d definitely be playing your part older, don’t forget the inner, happy fun child in keeping the relationship happy down to the tee. within you. Most women take on the role of a mother and forget to behave like a child now and then. Instead of feeling jealous or annoyed when Praise him in front of others. When the woman in his life shows her appreciation for your man acts like a child, join him and have fun! him in front of others, he’ll be grateful and glad to have someone who supports him and stands Make him think you need him. Men are the by him. instinctive protectors. Make him feel like a man by making him believe you’re dependent Make him feel secure. While men may have on him. When he truly believes you need him, he’ll cling to you because it makes him feel good epic egos, they’re also extremely fragile inside. when it comes to the matters of the heart. They feel threatened easily, and go into an insecure shell. Avoid making him feel insecure in the right Give him his space. Men are different from way and he’ll love you more. women when it comes to space. Most women are fine with having people around all the Take the lead in bed. Experiment. Be willing time. Men on the other hand, get annoyed when they don’t get some alone time by themselves. to try new things with your partner. One of Give each other space, and you’ll see that love the biggest reasons why couples start getting will blossom better. bored in bed is because of the monotony and boredom of repetition. Keep things sexy and he’ll always be awed by you. Support him when he’s down without criticizing him. An “I told you so” is ego Motivate him in his endeavors. You can pick shattering. When your man is down on the ground, don’t kick him in the groin. It may seem flaws in your man and his ideas, but don’t like the perfect time to criticize him and his bad oppose it without rational judgment. Bring out decisions, but hold that thought. You’ll only make the best in your man and help him *achieve his destiny* by motivating him and complimenting his him hate himself and you. achievements. Ask his help now and then. All men think they’re intellectuals with exceptional Surprise him by buying something he really likes. Did you find something your man will problem solving abilities. As long as you’re listening to his opinion with your eyes wide, he’ll really appreciate when you were out shopping swell with pride and love. alone? Pick it up for him. Surprise him now and then with little, thoughtful gifts and he’ll think he’s the luckiest guy in the world. Get helpless in his arms when you’re hurt. Feeling down and helpless? Walk up to Be a great cook. Food truly is the best way your man without saying a word and just hold him tight. Your man will be overwhelmed with love and to a man’s heart. He may say he doesn’t affection, and not to mention, delirious happiness care if you don’t know to cook, but try cooking because he’s the one that makes you feel better. him a fabulous dish and he’ll experience a gastronomical orgasm! Look like a million bucks around him. Look sexy when you’re with him. Getting naked Make him feel lucky to have you. Be a should still be a treat, not a regular occurrence charmer and a graceful woman who’s the around the house. Dress well and make sure eyes cynosure of everyone’s attention. Awe others turn when you’re in his arms. wherever you are, and he’ll truly thank the one above to be with a woman who can take the air out of any room she walks into! Compliment him. Men love compliments, they just pretend like they don’t. Compliment your man for his physique and his Special gestures out of the blue. If you intellect. He’ll be happy to know you notice. want to know how to make a man happy, the secret lies in not making special gestures a routine, but by being extra nice now and then. Don’t emasculate your man. Don’t shrivel Men have a tendency of taking things for granted, your man’s ball bag by making him fell less so don’t turn your gestures into routine. like a man when he’s done something wrong.

10 11 12 13 14

Don’t yell at him in public or put him down when he takes a few decisions. If you keep cutting him down from under, he’ll just end up looking for an affair to feel more like a man.

Don’t hit him below the belt unless you really have to. Don’t bring up his exes, his mother or his lousy job when you’re trying to pick a fight with him or trying to hurt him for hurting you. [Re

Stand up for your man. If your man is cornered or helpless, step into the warzone and fight his fight for him. Don’t be surprised if you see your man’s eyes well up with happy tears for finding a woman as awesome as you.

Respect him. All of us need respect. When you’re in love, it’s easy to talk stupid or put down your man in jest, but be careful where to draw the line. Never ridicule him or put him down in public. Let him know you respect him, even if you pull his leg now and then. Happiness in love comes from the inside, and unless both of you chose to be happy, no amount of gestures can make a difference. So if you really want to be happy in the relationship, both of you have to make a conscious effort to fill the relationship with love and happiness. But if you want to play your perfect part in keeping your man happy, these tips are all you need. Now that you know these 20 tips on how to keep your man happy, try a few moves and watch your man’s eyes sparkle with happy delight in no time! By Roger Davies

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Elegance January 2013

1st Annual Old School Reunion Party on January 6th 2012

The first ever Old School Reunion Party was hosted by Salieu Taal, Martin Monday and Ali Tambadou at Duplex on January 6th 2012. All started after a power outage at a house party in January of 2011, the party then moved to Club Duplex and from the reaction of the crowd we thought it would be an excellent idea to host one at Duplex the following year. The facebook group page was then launched in July of 2011 and from then there was no looking back. The second annual party is on Saturday December 29th 2012 followed by a cookout on Sunday the 30th. Elegance January 2013

Elegance January 2013

VIVIANE CHIDID Lodon With thé support of thé Gambian artists such as Jalmadi MO Hawks and Nancy Mboob to name a few. - Courtesy of Global properties & Saul Sounds

MUSA’S CORNER

JOKES A primary school teacher was teaching her pupils Christian Religion Knowledge , after few minutes of teaching, the teacher asked, what is the materials God us to create human being, immediately many hands were up, the teacher call on one of the boys, the boy said, breath of God the whole class laughed, but the teacher then go further by explaining to the boy that before the breath, what was the material God used to mould us and a little girl quickly said clay, everybody clapped, the teacher said good answer please clap for her again, after few seconds of clapping one of the boys screamed and said, stop, stop, please teacher don’t teach us nonsense, are you saying that clay was the only materials used, that is totally wrong God also use charcoal and a very good example is you I hardly see someone as black as you are.

A student from University Of Adult Jokes had failed his final law papers and was obviously not happy. He questioned the professor and decided to make a raw deal with him... Student: Professor, do you consider yourself to know everything about law? Professor: Absolutely, otherwise I would not be capable of standing in front of you and lecturing you on the subject. Student: If you can answer this question, I will agree with you and accept my final examination marks, if you cannot, you will have to give me an “A”.

A married lawyer made love to his girl-friend inside his car one day. On getting home, his wife saw the girl’s pant in the car. She got mad and tore it to pieces screaming: Honey! Honey!!! What is this? The lawyer calmly replied: My God, you have just destroyed evidence of a rape case worth millions of Naira. She quickly fell on her knees apologizing Honey please forgive me, God will bring another one.

Chinese couple living in Lagos gave birth to a black baby. In anger, husband asked the wife “Chu, why baby black?” She replied, “we live in Nigeria, no electricity, me hot, you hot, sex hot and the baby burnt!”

A Lady asked her boyfriend “ how much do you love me? Boy: I love you so much, I can’t measure. Girl: No just tell me. Boy: Okay I am like a phone and you are my sim card, there’s no me without you. Girl: aaaaaawww that is so romantic. (Boy says 2 himself) see mumu! What if I’m were a Chinese phone with three sims?

The professor laughed over it but agreed. Student: What is legal but not logical, logical but not legal and neither legal nor logical? The professor thought about it for hours and pondered no answer. He had to finally give up as he really did not know. He gave the boy an ‘A’. The following day at lecture, the professor was still struggling with this unknown mystery and decided to pose the question to his students. Professor: Class, what is legal but not logical, logical but not legal and neither legal nor logical? He paused for a second in shock when all students raised their hands with a possible answer. He pointed out one student and waited. Student: Sir, you are 65 years old, married to a 28 year old woman, this is legal but not logical. Your wife, is having an affair with a 23 year old boy, this is logical but not legal. Your wife’s boyfriend has failed his exam and yet you have given him an ‘A’, that is neither logical nor legal. The professor collapsed. Elegance January 2013

Elegance January 2013

Fatu Show: It is important that partners concentrate on & nurture mutual love Fatu Camara, commonly known as Fatu Show, is today one of the most experienced and astute TV news presenters of the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS). She is also an anchor of a popular TV programme called Fatu Show, which now serves as her eponym for most of those who know and follow her programmes on TV. Elegance Magazine recently had an encounter with this role model, who spoke on her background, career trajectory, conjugal relationships and many more. Elegance Magazine: Welcome to Elegance Magazine. Many people have got to know you through your TV news presentation and programme called Fatu Show, but don’t know the real Fatu. What do you have to tell them about yourself? Fatu Camara: I am a Gambian, mother of three boys, who was born and raised in Banjul. My parents were also born and raised in Banjul and my grandparents come

from the renowned province of Kiang - that stood up against the British colonial administration in 1911. I went to school in the UK and lived in the US before returning home to work for my country. I have been engaged in media work since 1994, except for my three-year stint at the US embassy as protocol assistant to the Ambassador/Military Liaison Assistant. I believe in positive selfdetermination as a conduit for young people to achieve. I have an open mind and I hate fake people. EM: You have a pride of place in the TV presentation domain, through the many shows and programmes you feature. Why are you so professional in doing your job and look so immaculate on the screen? FC: I hope I do look professional and immaculate on the screen. But professionalism should in fact be the hallmark of all creative endeavours and if one cannot perform with proficiency, I wonder if you have any place in such an important industry. And one possible mark of distinction in any enterprise may be how much we like and are involved in what we do. I love TV presentation and give it my very best both in delivery and appearance. EM: Fatu Show is loved by many. How would you describe the focus of the show and why has it become so popular? FC: The show is blend of various genres and formats – current affairs, entertainment and talk show. Maybe this is why everyone has something to enjoy in it. But this has not also happened without a great deal of effort and investment on our part. I try to mobilize very relevant and appropriate players both in the production and subject matter context, expending resources beyond what the production budget can cater for. But if you tell me now that the show is popular, then our sacrifice is not in vein. I could recall when I came up with the idea of a talk show, many people tried to discourage me saying the Government will not allow a talk show and that they would stop it. Unfortunately for those people, the Government was the first to support me by way of sponsorship through the Women’s Bureau. This is important to know, especially for people who have ideas that they would like to execute, as long as they are not illegal and will not tamper with the peace and security of this country, please go ahead. EM: You have other serious engagements, yet you are able to go on with your TV news presentation at the GRTS. Why have you been so dedicated to it as much as you are to other official duties? FC: It is important for us to maintain the professional touch, regardless of our duty station, and it is this professional drive that is keeping me on the screen. Of course you will agree that it is at great personal

Elegance January 2013

cost because this requires shuttling between two offices and managing a very busy work schedule. I enjoy it very much, work, home and family is the best thing for me. I might also adjust my duties at the TV slightly so that my schedule becomes more flexible and without having to affect my overall output. But largely, I think my dual duties are still serving the people of The Gambia. EM: Let me put this to you: some people are not sure whether you are in good terms with your husband, who is believed to have another wife. What do you have to say about such perception? FC: I may be constrained to say much about this matter, not because there is anything unusual, but because it involves other people and it will be unethical for me to talk insightfully about their private lives and besides I would not want to give prominence to someone by talking about him/her. However, human relations are delicate, and my belief is: whether in marriage or in other relationships, what is important is for people to assume a position of goodwill and remain genuine and positive. This way, one’s conscience is clear and one is at peace with oneself. This is where I stand and I can assure you and everyone that I am very fine, thanks to believing in myself and the opportunities created for Gambian Women. EM: Many women of your calibre find it very difficult to maintain a lasting partnership with their husbands. What advice have you for them? FC: I wonder if I belong to a special caliber of women. But whatever the case, I believe that is just perception and it is dangerous if people see themselves as of a special caliber, or are assigned such stereotypical classification by others. One thing I know though, it is important that partners concentrate on and nurture mutual love, as well as the good and positive that bind them together, rather than gratify their human differences. And regardless of a woman or a man’s education, exposure or professional background, partners must be partners, and not competing parties working to undo or outpace each other. Once we do not lose sight of our original purpose and commitments in the union, it shall not be impossible to maintain partnerships or resolve conflicts when they arise. EM: How do you manage to keep an eye on your family while you also maintain your official duties professionally? FC: This is the challenge for all working mothers and somehow, we have to fair well in executing both responsibilities. But I believe it is more about managing and assigning our time between the two. If women are to fully attain the life opportunities that we all crave, then we must be active in contributing our quota to society’s labour demands. But family is the foundation of the social fabric and women are indispensable players in its maintenance. So to answer your question: there is no magic in working and keeping an eye on one’s family. You only need to be able to manage dedicating the required amount of time to both.

EM: Do you have time to prepare some sumptuous meal for your husband and the kids at times? FC: Indeed, may not be too frequent, naturally because of my job. But I enjoy the kitchen and can commit a good deal of time to preparing a fancy meal for the family. EM: You look so beautiful and always young, especially on the TV screen when presenting news. Can you share with us some of your beauty secrets? FC: Oh, I should congratulate myself for that honour! Or may be it’s a compliment. But to me, beauty originates from the inside, the state of the inner self, before manifesting itself outside. Therefore, first and foremost, I make sure I am at peace with myself and those around me, purify my heart of all ill and direct my energy towards positive things. With this and proper physical health care, you maintain an elegant soul and body. I must also say that TV appearance requires meticulous attention to what you wear and how you comport yourself in terms of taste and decency. In the end, you gain incredible confidence and poise. EM: You have passed through so many stages including assuming the position of State House Press Secretary. How have you overcome the hurdles you have had to face in your career journey? FC: Let me say that my journey in life is not defined by the drive to assume position. Instead, I see position as a responsibility to serve one’s country and my sense of fulfillment rests in my ability to effectively execute my duties. I indeed managed to pass through so many hurdles and am still prepared to face more. That is what life is about – you do not make a difference without working through challenges. But with resilience, determination and hard work, nothing stands between you and your goals. I must also thank His Excellency the President, Sheikh Prof. Alh. Dr Yahya Jammeh for giving me an opportunity to serve my country and also for creating the perfect environment for young people to excel. EM: What is your advice to young ladies aspiring to become prosperous and successful in life? FC: First, they should nurture a positive identity – believing in who they really are and what they can do. Then working hard, especially towards educational and career development, remaining self-confident and focusing on things that actually are important. Society is changing fast and the ability to be productive, rise above all distractions and set on real goals are crucial Human relations are delicate, & in leading any lady to the path of my belief is: whether in marriage success. Finally, let no one see or in other relationships, what is important is for people to failure as an option, for it is only there assume a position of goodwill for those who are not trying anything and remain genuine & positive. well enough. EM: Thank you so much for speaking to us. FC: Thank you indeed! 59

Elegance January 2013

bakz saho

chilel sarr

njok mALICK

AJI TOURAY

ramatoulie

UNIQ CHICK

wAKA jAGNE

GAMBIAN celEbrities Elegance magazine in collaboration with Gambia music promotions in the Uk presents The Gambian celebrities who are doing well in their different fields such as TV, Fashion, Music Promotions etc. We deem it important to showcase and acknoledge their hardwork. The likes of Harona Drammeh of Mediamatic & Paradise Fm, Lamin Manga the Director General of GRTS and CEO of UniqueFM Radio, Njok Malik of Yaram arts London, Waka Jagne of Talk Senegambia, Fatou Touray of the Gambian showbiz,Pa Goreh of Goreh promotion London, Baks Saho of the Gambia Music Promotions in the Uk, Model Sinta Njie and all others who are doing well and contributing to the development of the country.

FATIMA JABBIE

ElegancelAMIN JanuarymANGA 2013 60

FATOU TOURAY

Harona Drammeh

ebou njie

lAMIN cham

IDA BIDWELL

sinta

SAUL SOWE

HATIB JANNEH

Elegance January pA 2013 gOREH

Magal Touba

Soda Busso

Aja Sai Sarr & Kineh Lam

Madame Sering Bara Mbakeh & Madame Sarr

Alasan Mbaye

Saliou Samuel Sarr

Ja nu a r y 1st 2 013 K e rr Sa mue l Sa rr mu Se ri n g Sa li o u Mb a keh

Jai Sarr, Chilel, Aja Kinneh Lam & others

Madame samuel Sarr and her special guests

Babacarr Njie

Sarro, Jai sarr & Katty

Sukai, Channeh, Jahu, Chilel & Ousu

Sameul Sarr and other Talibehs

Ngoneh Senegal

Madame Rose Sarr

Elegance January 2013

Samuel Ahmed Sarr

Madame Samuel Sarr

Samuel Sarrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House in touba 63

Oumie Jallow

Elegance January 2013

Sophie Riley

Gambia Bird connects the skies

Provides efficient air travel in Africa & Europe

ambia Bird, the latest entrant in the Gambia air travel industry, is out to enhance the connectivity between Africa and Europe, with its robust and immaculate aircraft plying the skies of both continents. Since it started operations less than six months ago, the airline has shot into the skies its second aircraft, A319-100, branded with the national colours of The Gambia, and still counting. The airliner deficiency in the sub-region and between The Gambia and other countries in the western tip of Africa and Europe has over the last six months become a snag of the past. From Banjul to Dakar, from Dakar to Monrovia, from Monrovia to Freetown, from Freetown to Accra and from Accra to Banjul, the movement of people and goods has been accelerated by Gambia Bird’s efficient aircraft. In the course of 2013, Gambia Bird intends to connect several other countries to its network to increase the destinations of its flights. “Nigeria has been part of our plans since the beginning, and we are looking forward Elegance January 2013

to welcoming Lagos as a Gambia Bird destination airport in the New Year,” said Karsten Balke of Gambia Bird. “In addition to this, we expect to see other African countries join the network in January 2013, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon and the Ivory Coast.” The airline’s recent aircraft, which has added more impetus to the travel industry in The Gambia, Africa and Europe, took off from Berlin carrying its first Gambia Bird passengers along with a delegation of key Gambia Bird personnel and accompanying VIPs. On the landing of his new aircraft on the shores of its home-hub of Banjul, Thomas Wazinski, Chief Executive Officer of Gambia Bird Airlines, expressed his appreciation of the welcome the airline has enjoyed from The Gambia and its people, including the valued support of His Excellency President Yahya Jammeh. Wazinski says: “We find such warmth and energy in The Gambia, so it is not surprising that business and tourism are beginning to boom. There is a great need for efficient air travel and because of this Gambia Bird are very proud to supply that requirement.”

He continues: “Our service is reliable and our fares are competitive. Not only do we deliver exceptional quality, we now offer increased quantity too. By bringing in this second plane, Gambia Bird shows its determination to deliver what has been promised.” The entering of Gambia Bird Airlines in the travel industry of The Gambia has effaced the paucity of flight connecting the country and other destinations in West Africa and Europe, such as Barcelona, London and Berlin. In welcoming the airline’s new aircraft to Banjul, The Gambia’s Minister of Tourism and Culture Fatou Mas JobeNjie, whose tourism sector is expected to reap substantial gains from the new development, says the entering of Gambia Bird into the travel industry will help to further enhance the connectivity between Europe and Africa.

Readers view

...

e Uk. h e r e in t h t h e ir e in z a g a b ia n s a t nce, le g a n c e m D e a r E le g a e a d a n e d it io n o f e in s p ir e d s e e in g G a m le s .A s a b u d d in g r so obstac I r e c e n t ly u n g w o m a n i fe lt e s p it e a n y w h e r e t o lo o k a n d d l o fu y s s a e c s su me y And a in g t o b e p o r t a n t t o h a v e s o m e d ia b e in g a w fu ll iv r t s d n a im m a e s best e it in r t , I b e li e v e it h m a in s nce Magaz jo u r n a li s t a t io n fr o m , a n d w h a s E le g a t s t h a t n o t h in g c u s e in z a li s p ir d e r iv e in s u lt u r e -r o o t e d m a g g G a m b ia n jo u r n a u lt u r e a t it s in c d nc a d , u ia d b b e r t m s Ga p o ll u ie s d othe m r n a fo t lf e la s p y d ib le s t o r e r e m in d s m . E le g a n c e M a g a z in r la n d a n d t h e in c r e fu l in t h e ir ib le ess the is im p o s s n o u r m o t h r iv in g t o b e s u c c t in u e s t o o t h g li g n in G a m b ia n s in e s s , o r m e d ia c o h a t t h e y b e s t , s h in g d il ig e n t s w n u u b in o , y n e t v io e u abo o b e li e fa s h t b s nstant it n a r e ic h fr t e have a co ng A u o t o y l a e n ic h e ; w h it t to v a iv s o n d ’! I t nd mot ed we are e n t h u s e a e b r ig h t li k e a d ia m e a n d h o w p r iv il e g e t o o u r in ur ru d o a n d ‘s h o u r b e a u t if u l c u lt e r a l a n d t o s t a y t f n o e g o p le t h a t r e m in d e r fr ic a n s in s u s t h e s p e c ia l p e h is a n d A d n a s n t b e G a m b ia a s it is w h a t m a k e a g a z in e fo r d o in g m e n a n d ; M s e u n iq u e n e s h a n k y o u E le g a n c e t r ic la d ie s , e x q u is it t c le o w e a r e . S in s p ir e u s t o b e e to c o n t in u e l p e o p le ! u a b e a u t if S in c e r e ly re Haddy Ndu

ELEGANCE BatchElor

Name: Almamie Ceesay Age: 34 Occupation: Accountant Live in: The Uk

She adds: “Gambia Bird has opened the gateway to West Africa; now it is vital that we support this airline so it may grow and bring further prosperity to our country, Africa and Europe.” By Osman Kargbo 65

Elegance January 2013

Elegance jongama Mrs Soma Njie- Njai

he name JONGAMA, comes from the Wolof language, a language spoken in three West African countries, namely, The Gambia, Senegal, and Mauritania. JONGAMA means a woman with great qualities, a sophisticated Woman. It does not refer merely to the outer beauty of a woman, but also the inner beauty, the personality, and most importantly, the natural strength of a Woman!! This is the JONGOMA that the Elegance magazine would be celebrating and promoting. We would choose each woman for every edition and Madam Soma Njie-Njai is the Elegance Jongoma for this issue.

GA M B IA F ASH I ON WEEKE N D D e c e mb e r 2 0 1 2

Elegance January 2013

Thione Balago and Waly Seck Gambia Dec 2012 courtesy of Coker Njie Family

Elegance January 2013

WEURGU-YARAM CI GAMBIA

Elegance special tribute to Sailou Jallow (1978 -2012)

“Improving sustainable health through education and prevention”

eurgu-YaramCi Gambia is a 501(c) (3) non-profit/not for profit organization established on February 1, 2012, that focuses on all aspects of health as defined by the WHO Constitution: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of diseases and infirmity.” Our mission is to increase awareness of health issues and challenges to help people learn more about prevention, control, and treatment. Our aim is to work with the public health sector within the Gambia to bring about improvement in the standard of health care in the country.

AdamaSecka– Chairperson and founder

OusmanTouray – Project Manager

Our vision in Weurgu-Yaram is to not only

see positive improvements in the health care sector, but to also encourage a vast number of Gambians around the world to bring their different experiences, expertise, and knowledge together, to push our nation towards higher development. The organization strives to achieve this vision by soliciting contributions from philanthropists that seek to support worthy charitable causes such as ours. “I chose to be part of WYCG simply because it’s for Gambians, by Gambians and for that fact that we are young dynamic people who have our country’s healthcare system at heart and that we believe we can make a change.” - Lillian Bruce Oliver- Liaison/Team Leader (GM) . MichealDemba – Vice Chairman

Felixtina Forster – Secretary General

Sailou Jallow was a young man full of promise. He loved people indiscriminately, loved his family like no other, and was selfless to a fault. Above all, he was blessed with a heart of gold. He has left his beautiful mark on this world and hence he is universally mourned. May we take lessons from Sailou’s book of being a beautiful soul. Indeed, to know him was to love him. Sailou was the original STAR BOY. Gambia will never be the same without “Baba 4” gliding down our roads with Sailou in the driver’s seat. He was truly a “one of one.” The unique mix of charisma, charm, style, and down-to-earth qualities he embodied defined his character. That coy smile of his made him irresistibly endearing. He left a lasting positive impression on everyone he met in life. May Allah rest his soul in perfect peace and raise him to Jannah Firdaus. Amen. We are also taking this opportunity to once again sympathize with all of his family and friends across the globe. We continue to pray for the entire Gibi Jallow family during this difficult time. Brother Sailou, we all miss you and you will remain in our hearts and prayers forever.

For more information please visit us at www.wycg.gm or email us at weurguyaram@gmail.com

Elegance January 2013

May your beautiful soul rest in perfect peace. Elegance Magazine

Elegance January 2013

Buy the latest edition of Elegance Magazine online by logging on to www.elegance.gm then click on BUY NOW on the top menu You will then be on the paypal website , simply log in and key in your shipping address and submit. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as easy as 1-2-3!! Elegance January 2013