For the Purposeful Woman
HAZEL
HERRINGTON Shooting for the stars PK
The road to healing REAPING WHAT YOU SOW
MIND AFTER CHRIST
MUSIC Friends In Christ
Jay’s Prestige 1
Contents 7
Cover Story
Hazel Herrington is a powerhouse shooting for the stars and lifting a nation of women along.
EDITOR M. Manatse MANAGING EDITOR: A. Mhone GRAPHIC DESIGNER: B. Musuka ONLINE EDITOR: Z. Manatse RESEARCH CHIEF RESEARCHER: T. Kwidini RESEARCH COMPILER: F. Tylor RESEARCHER: V. McKinnon ONLINE EDITION HEAD PROGRAMMER: U. Haruzivishe CONTENT COPY EDITOR: A. Mhone
community
entertainment
Reaping what you sow
Friends In Christ
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Judith Isabel Dlamini continues her testament to what kindness can bring into your life.
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The better half of the Gospel duo sat down with MoniqueToday to shine a light on her life and their latest project as a group.
SUBSCRIPTIONS EMAIL: editor@moniquetoday.com WEBSITE: www.moniquetoday.com
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Mind After Christ
The passion project that is raising the future of a nation, the Christian way, one kid at a time.
business
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pastor’s kid
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The road to healing for a preacher’s daughter
Being a PK can be the loneliest, until you turn to the Heavenly Father.
Hazel Herrington
Inspirational entrepreneurial pointers from a truly global citizen, with a passion for empowering women in business.
health
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Healthier happier you
Our health expert gives tips on a balanced lifestyle.
Copyright MoniqueToday ©. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced , stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior permission in writing form from the publisher.
beauty
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Prestige personified
We are all beautiful, Judith has made it her business to make the world see it.
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Reaping what you sow
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The content of MoniqueToday magazine (and moniquetoday.com) does not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers and are the views of its contributors and advertisers. The digital edition may include hyperlinks to third-party content, advertising, or websites, provided for the sake of convenience and interest. The editor and publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising from information in this publication and do not endorse any advertising or products available from external sources. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers. All rights reserved
Letter from the T Editor. he past few weeks have
recorded fluctuations in the weather. We felt extremely hot, some days were very windy, the last week of August we have witnessed rains and a bit of nippy mornings and nights. Its looks like we are bidding farewell to summer. What ever the weather changes are, there is always something to look forward to at MoniqueToday.
This month we have Hazel H e rr i n g t o n a s o u r c ove r girl. The girl is unstoppable and her story is about Hazel is a woman whose heart is sold out to Christ and to living a fulfilled l i fe through em poweri n g others in business. She is also a notable motivational speaker who has shared stage with big names. Her s t o r y s p e a k s f o r i t s e l f. The music section has an exclusive chat with Sharon Manatsa whose first album was launched in July. Although she collaborated with her husband, she is a passionate worshipper in her own right. A n d , o f c o u rs e , t h e re’s J u d i t h I s a b e l
Thank you to our I Writers. t has been a year full of
learning and as such when teething problems arise we have gone back to the drawing board to let the lessons sink in. These are the joys of being in a positive team, you get to reinforce each other’s good qualities as well as point out what could be improved. At MoniqueToday, however, because we are for the community, our team is as much external as it is those that oversee the daily running of the magazine. Our writers are very much where the magazine begins its life.
Dlamini who is our come back contributor from last month. She pours her energy into the city of Bradford UK and will do everything with her power to ensure the less privileged live comfortable lives. Last but not least, Hazel Gumpo’s story last month inspired many. Here are some of the comments she received: Blessing Inspiring piece for every young woman out there who doesn’t see the sky as a limit. Noku Sibanda I was so excited to read some life stories of people with a purpose and those called to make a difference in people‘s life. So thankful to my friend w h o i nt ro d u c e d m e t o t h i s m a g a z i n e . I w i l l s h a re m y s t o r y i n d u e s e a s o n . The last few months have been an encouraging experience and I look forward to seeing how our publication will touch and inspire women in society. Stay with us for more publications. Editor Monica Manatse @MoniqueToday_Ed
Nyenya who we sadly overlooked in our last issue. She was quite understanding about the matter, which has humbled the team and once again reaffirmed why we do what we do. The purpose of MoniqueToday is to let inspiring ladies like Nyaradzo shine and carry their stories to the rest of the world. We thank you once again for trusting us with the stories of your lives. Without which there would be no MoniqueToday. May your stories encourage the ladies of tomorrow. The MoniqueToday Team
So when we forgot to mention a writer in our last issue, we were kicking ourselves because you give us your life stories and we try to make the highlight of the magazine be about you. With that we would like to acknowledge one of our writers, Nyaradzo
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Reaping what you sow A continuation from our last issue Author: Judith Isabel Dlamini
journey. I started to volunteer at my church and helping people in their homes. At that time I met a lady with terminal cancer for whom I offered to iron and clean since she could no longer manage such household chores herself. As she was so ill, I did not ask for payment, so I would walk three and a half miles to her place and back. That’s why I was so skinny! When the lady passed away, her husband gave me the gift of a brand new TV as an expression of gratitude for supporting his wife through those final months. He also told me that she had said I brought peace with me when I visited her. When some elderly people at church heard about the support I had given her, they too asked if I could help them and said they would pay me for my services. Consequently, local social services heard of the work I was doing and they began to ask if I could help other elderly people as they could see my willingness to help others as well as the trust people put in me.
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hen I came to the UK in 2001, I barely had enough money for accommodation and tuition fees. I was expecting to work during my studies to earn supplementary income to live on; However, things didn’t pan out as planned. On arrival, I met with adversity as the family that I had planned to live with could no longer accommodate me. Furthermore, I faced deportation by the Home Office unless I could show proof of financial support. During that time I met a family who were also in the midst of adversity as their business was failing and their house was about to be repossessed by the bank. I joined with them in prayer. That week a breakthrough in their business came which enabled them to pay all their debts and go on to give proof of income to say they could support me through my studies. Moving to the UK was a leap of faith. Despite encountering difficulties initially, I learned that you can still show kindness to others through your weeping season and God will remain faithful. Psalm 126:1-6 (NIV) says: “When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, The LORD has done great things for them.”
I learned that you can still show kindness to others through your weeping season and God will remain faithful. The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Restore our fortunes, LORD, like streams in the Negev. Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.” When my year of study came to an end, I needed to change my visa to remain in the UK but the process was more difficult than I had expected. I had to go to court, where the Judge said he believed God had called me here and that I should be granted a ‘Missionary Visa’ to remain. A ‘Missionary Visa’ however, restricts one from undertaking ordinary paid employment. This was really difficult as I didn’t know what to do other than to live by faith. I didn’t expect at that time for it to be the beginning of a sixteen year
One particular man who had served in the army, was angry and neglected. He had limited mobility and needed a wheelchair to get around. Social services asked if I could help him with practical things such as trips to the bank etc. He didn’t trust people, including myself initially, yet through the kindness I showed him I saw his hard exterior soften. He hadn’t spoken to his own family for many years but before he died he was able to reconcile with them. When he passed away I had the privilege of meeting his two nieces who said when he spoke about me he had a smile that they had not seen before and he had said of me that “Isabel is as strong as a wild ox”. As a gesture for the help I gave to their uncle, they gave me a cheque with which I cleared some of my outstanding debts. Sometimes people comment that t h e y w i s h t h e y h a d m y ‘g l a m o rous’ life as I’m ‘always traveling’. They seem to think I’m a ‘celebrity’ of sorts. Sharing with others what I had in my hand m a r ke d t h e b e g i n n i n g of m y j o u rn e y . Fo r i n s t a n c e m y c o n n e c t i o n w i t h Scotland; in 2002 a youth pastor was looking for accommodation for one of the girls in her group. I volunteered to give her a bedroom while I slept in the living room. In return, the youth pastor offered to accommodate me at her home if I wished to take any holiday in Scotland. Through that connection I met a couple who I would babysit for when they came to work in Bradford. They too have included Continued: p20
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Hazel Herrington Author: Hazel Herrington
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azel is an International Speaker, Serial Entrepreneur, Business Coach, Empowerment Strategist, Accomplished Business leader and Recognised philanthropist from Zimbabwe residing in Australia. She is also the founder of Destiny Arise and I Am Bible Distribution two charities that have been instrumental in the empowerment and education of more than 20,000 people in Zimbabwe, through various business workshops, feeding programs and educational programs. To date she has distributed more than 10,000 bibles in Zimbabwe to Schools, Women Organisations and Churches through her organisation I Am Bible Distribution.
• We were all born with a purpose and the world needs your purpose
Hazel tells a personal story about how she discovered her purpose and started her first business. Her entrepreneurial journey began when she was employed at the bank as a Money Market Dealer. She was earning a fantastic salary, driving an expensive car with all the perks you could dream of. But she dreaded going to work and she lacked the passion to fulfill her daily duties. She was frustrated and realized month after month that all she was living for was to go to work, make money and pay bills. She knew there had to be more to life than working, getting paid and paying bills. After praying and As a key note speaker she has shared the stage with Billionaires, seeking God for direction she discovered her purpose and realized Millionaires and Business Tycoons such as JT Foxx the No 1 Wealth her passion was to start her own business. She left her job and Coach, Patrice Motsepe Africa’s first black billionaire, Hugh Hilton started working towards her first business. Within two years she Co-founder of Alvarez & Marshal Capital Real Estate and South had four businesses a Christian Bookshop, Two clothing Stores and African billionaire Jenna Clifford. This year, Hazel will be interview- a Restaurant and she also started her two Charities. She says she ing Mel Gibson in Los Angeles, USA at Mega Success on the 17th of has never been more fulfilled and the rest is history. Her advice is if November. She shall also be sharing the stage with Al Pachino, Mark you don’t know your purpose you will never be fulfilled, so make it Wahlberg, Charlie Sheen, Gene Simmons, JT Foxx and Steve Wozniak a mission to discover your purpose, because we were not created the co-founder of Apple to name but a few. just to go to work, make money and pay bills or start any ad hoc business. Every business we create must contribute to humanity and improve people’s lives.
“If you don’t know your purpose you will never be fulfilled, so make it a mission to discover your purpose.”
Hazel also runs Leadership Programs which are designed to cultivate, equip and develop leaders. She believes everyone is born a leader but they just don’t know how to become one. The goal of every human should be to become a leader, she has developed a step by step process through which entrepreneurs are equipped to become the leaders they were born to be.
Signs of Good Leadership • Leadership is not about control or manipulation, but about Inspira-
tion
• Leaders empower others and are not intimidated by the success or Hazel is a “Purpose Guru” who is passionate about empowering Business leaders. As a Business coach and Empowerment Advocate she runs three coaching programs the “Personal Development Program”, “Leadership Development Program” and “Business Development Program” her mission is to empower entrepreneurs to discover their life’s purpose and reason for existence in order to fulfill their God-given mandate in Business. Who are you? Where do you come from? And what is your reason for existence. These are questions that need to be answered before you can start a business. As entrepreneurs God has bestowed on everyone a gift, which must be used to their full potential in order to enjoy abundance in life and in business. Until someone discovers their purpose they will never be fulfilled, she believes that when people are equipped to discover, harness and nurture their God-given gifts and talents this significantly boosts their self-esteem, productivity and they gain a clearer vision for their reason for existence. The discovery of your purpose is done through her “Personal Development Program” which also helps entrepreneurs and start-ups to overcome common challenges to starting a business such as fear of failure and fear of the unknown.
Important key tips on purpose:
growth of others
• Leaders are made by the people • True leaders never seek followers • Leaders drive people to the finish line
3 Success Tips for Star-Ups Be Authentic To be authentic is to stay true to who you are, and not be false or copied to the customers we serve. Never try to become like someone else, authentic businesses inspire and prosper. People are no longer content with just a product or a service, they are looking for an experience that is authentic and honest and as entrepreneurs and business owners we must give people what they want. The secret is to build a purpose for your business that goes beyond trying to make money by implementing biblical principles in your vision, mission, goals and core values.
• Purpose is the key to life and when you discover your purpose you When you are authentic the following will happen unlock the key for your life.
• Without purpose our lives have no meaning and we live meaning-
• You differentiate yourself from your competition
less lives.
• You become influential in the market place
• Purpose is the key to fulfillment
• People understand and relate to your business.
Continued: p20
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HEALTHCARE (PVT) LTD
A healthier happier you Author: Doris Ike-Oko
T h e y w o r r y constantly yet say “The Lord will provide” and do nothing but sit and wait for the Lord to provide
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t is a beautiful thing to be alive, to be healthy and to have balance in everything you do. There is something wonderful about waking up every morning, knowing you have a chance to make a difference, serve a higher purpose and see the world through a completely different lens each day.
of fruit and vegetables make up just over a third of the food we eat each day. There’s an indication that people who eat at least five portions a day have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers. 2. Dairy Products such as milk and cheese
I am a huge believer in living a healthy Milk and dairy foods such as cheese and lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy and balanced yoghurt are good sources of protein. They diet, requires self-discipline. also contain calcium, which helps keep your bones healthy. Why do you think babies are As individuals, it is important that we are so bubbly and strong? Take a leaf out of their aware of what we eat and how we live. In book. This also comes highly recommended addition, that we strive to maintain a clean, my health professionals. healthy and balanced diet that includes exercise. One good way of achieving this, is 3. Foods with Starch by ensuring that we eat the right amount of what our body needs, when it needs it. This is Key. Starchy foods are meant to There are occasions when this is challenging; make up over one third of everything you I have had my fair share of ups and downs. eat. This means you need to base most of However, I found that once I got the right your meals around foods that contain starch. routine, everything fell into place and I am happier for it. It is well known and documented that potatoes with the skins on are a great Eating a healthy, balanced diet is an import- source of fibre and vitamins. For example, ant part of maintaining good health, and can boiled potatoes or jacket potatoes with skin help you feel your best. That being said, it is left on them are definitely very rich in fibre. also important to eat a wide variety of foods in the right proportions, and consuming the Who likes wholegrain foods – absolutely right amount of food and drink to achieve nobody! However, wholegrain or wholemeal and maintain a healthy body weight. varieties of starchy foods, such as brown rice and whole-wheat pasta contain more Let us take a look at how this can be fibre, and usually more vitamins and minerals achieved in five simple steps than white varieties. 1. Eat your five a day
5. Drinks lots of water This is possibly the most important tip of the five. It is easy to overlook but forms part of your healthy and balanced diet. Water is healthy, doesn’t cost a dime and easily quenches your thirst without ruining your teeth. It has no calories and contains no sugars. Plain tea, flavoured tea, as well as smoothies are also very good as well. Finally, ensure that you exercise regularly – going to the gym, taking walks or jogging keeps you fit and marginally healthy. Furthermore, balance your work and home life effectively. It is important to have some time for yourself - it allows you to recharge and re-evaluate things from time to time. With these simple tips, you can rest assured you will live a healthier, happier and balanced life. MT
4. Say NO to too much saturated fat
We have all heard that wonderful old myth that five a day keeps the doctor away. This is quite true. Fruit and vegetables are a vital source of vitamins and minerals.
Saturated fat, and too much of it, can increase your cholesterol in the blood, which is likely to increase your risk of developing heart disease. Regularly consuming foods and drinks high in sugar can increase your Research shows that eating five portions risk of obesity and tooth decay.
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Prestige personified Author: Judith Christianne Mian
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o rn i n We s t Af r i c a a n d ra i s e d i n so that people can look good and presentLondon and studying as a practice able for all occasions including televised nurse. Alongside studying she is filming. running a beauty business. The journey started at a young age. She used family members to express her God given gift of a beauty artist. This humble platform drove h e r int o p u rsu in g art ist ry even without professional training in the field. As early as age 16 she started developing her creativity and design skills using make-up. What kept her dream alive was her flair and the desire to realign herself in line with her passion. Each time she works on her clients she connects with them and enjoys watching them transform into confident people. What exactly inspired her? She worked in the industry for 7 years and then opted out. She had made up her mind to get out of her comfort zone. One thing led to another. She started her make up business called Jays Prestige. This gave her the opportunity to put into practise the skills and knowledge she had previously acquired. One of her proud moments is when she did an exceptional job for a client who was getting married and the client was extremely pleased.
“We are made in the image of God, beauty is who we are”
set timelines and to keep assessing your effectiveness. Most all faith keeps the faith. What is beauty? She defines beauty as “we are made in the image of God, beauty is who we are”. Yes make-up gives its users a feel good or look beautiful experience. However, when one truly knows who they are, have a great character and are confident in themselves they are already beautiful. Generally people who are happy in themselves (a beautiful smile is the best make up one can wear) will always see beauty in others. Makeup is a temporary fix- used to enhance one’s features.
Self-esteem and a positive outlook can Self-belief and faith has played an important make one feel more beautiful and have a role in the growth of her business. In times of beautiful approach in life. They say beauty is skin deep. She also does skincare classes uncertainty she trusted in God. teaching women how to effectively look She is currently working on a few new after the skin using the right products. projects. The first makeup class will be on 23 rd September 2017. Anyone interest- God richly bless you May His face shine ed in learning how to do flawless makeup is upon you and be gracious to you and give welcome. you peace.
Managing a business, working and studying Thank you MoniqueToday for the feature. MT is very challenging. However when you have the by passion, you quickly learn that the Being able to work with what you have and outcome blocks out the pain and obstacles. enjoy it can only mean that you are following Having a vision, setting goals is essential Contacts drive to plan and work towards the dream. your pathway. web: www.jaysprestige.com Everyday she faces procrastination, fear of email: info@jaysprestige.co.uk Jays Prestige was launched in 2014 and she the unknown and has to deal with that. facebook: jaysprestige took advantage of social media to advertise Instagram: jaysprestige her brand. Her website showcases her Doing what you are meant to do not what portfolio and different services she provides you want needs resilience and determito clients. She specialises in makeup and hair nation. It is important to be organised, to
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We could not resist showing a teaser of what Jay’s Prestige is about. The website is a wonderland full of beauty and the team found themselves mesmerised browsing for a while. Head on and see for yourself:
www.jaysprestige.com
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Interview Friends In Christ
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haron Manatsa recently teamed up with her husband Zex Manatsa to launch their first album Friends In Christ. A nine track masterpeace album p ro d u c e d b y t h e s o u g h t a f t e r m u s i c producer “MacDee” MacDonald Chidavaenzi. The launch was a great success with beautiful sound (live band) and engaging praise and worship. MoniqueToday had a chance to get just a few inspirational thoughts from Sharon.
E ve r y a r t i s t h a s a s t o r y a n d remembers when they first fell in love with music. So what’s Sharon’s story? My mum tells me l used to sing along different songs on the radio with a sharp memory at a very young age as a little girl, then l grew up singing at my local church praise and worship until l met my hubby who comes from a strong musical background and we sort of took it from there, and started getting involved in lots of different projects really.
How would you describe your music? Multicultural Contemporary Gospel
So when you decided to venture into music, where did your confidence and strength come from? I t s o r t o f h a p p e n e d g ra d u a l l y a s w e partnered up with hubby we became each other’s pillar of strength in support and motivation which really helped to boost both our confidence to raise our heads high and let the music speak for itself. Also not forgetting the experience we got along the way through working with other established artists and projects.
What was the hardest challenge you had when you started and how did you overcome it? Starting itself, making the first move was the toughest because you never feel like you are good enough and knowing the pressures of the industry you always think ooh will l be able to cope, how am l gonna do this or that. But, my father in-law said fear not, just go for it the rest will fall in place as you go. And here we are.
As a songwriter, what song have you written that best describes you and why? Tinofamba Munyasha Speaks a lot about our life as a couple, we have been through
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It all
‘s up to a healthy balance.
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Micah & Jesse
a lot of ups and downs but through it all we stuck together. It can only be the grace of God because on our own there is no way we would have been able to pull through all that and be testifying.
celebrating Christ as Friends. The name If there was one thing you would Friends in Christ has everything to do with hope the community to be more a group of friends passionately singing in supportive in, what would that be? oneness to exalt the name of Jesus. We we will be coming together annually from We really do need the community to raise all nations to bring down the roof through awareness to support the industry by attending the shows and buying the music. Gospel Music
So do you ever feel you open your life to the world through your music and if so does this not Can you describe the feeling you So what next for Friends in Christ? frighten you? had from when you started till the launch itself? We are looking forward to our Annual Friends Yes l do, once you start you put yourself in the public eye they have the right to scrutinize your life be it through your music, what you do, and how you carry yourself. You can name it all that makes you vulnerable because being public is not always good. When bad things are said you have to develop a thick skin to be able to cope without allowing the negative to affect you. It is scary but then again if you look at it from that angle you will not do anything.
What are some qualities you believe an artist should have in order to be consistent in the industry? I am still trying to figure that one out in this musical journey, when l do know l will be happy to share as l will be equipped through experience.
You recently launched Friends in Christ project. Why that name and to what reason? The purpose was to create a multicultural platform bringing together multi-talented musicians and singers with one voice,
in Christ Concert.... keep an eye on Facebook Priceless as you walk the walk it’s the best page for more information feeling ever. Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment.
What has been your best moment to date in regards to the project?
Working with my husband, we do have some crazy moments in the making of the project. We work together in the studio. We have our own ups and downs but its all worth it. Recently we planned the launch together. It was amazing to see it through and we achieved our goal.
You have a big team you work with and lead, how do you balance this up with your work and family life?
Contacts
www.facebook.com/Friends-InChrist-718306355044720/ iTunes: Friends In Christ Spotify: Friends In Christ Bookings: +44 7855 340649
Find her on facebook /PatienceMasiyambiriMandizha
We are a family style kind of a team. We truly are friends working together in Christ. We all make sacrifices and we understand that l day to day lifestyle has its on challenges. So we try to accommodate each other in order to make it work.
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The road to healing for a preacher’s daughter Pastor’s Kid : Our monthly foray into a selected PK’s life and challenges.
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rowing up in a religious environment and surrounded by many “christians” was the norm for me and this played a huge role in the direction I took as a person. Christianity to me was based on what was mostly seen on the outside rather than the inside. For many years I lived my life based on what people described to be the “perfect Christian”. This is not to say everyone made it seem this way but perhaps more of what I felt.
Yes, when I skipped meals because I was on the phone. My dressing and my behavior changed. My grandmother noticed the number of times I would get home late and not being able to give a clear answer to anything. She noticed the lies and excuses l made just to be away from home. Though grandmother noticed everything, my parents MISSED the signs and had no clue of what was happening. My Prince Charming had become my escape route. Why not? He was telling me all I needed to hear, he bought I was raised by my grandmother (the late gifts and taught me a new kind of love, yes MaMoyo). She was the pillar of strength and the “sheets love”. This was my ticket out and pretty much became my mother. My father since my parents cared more about other and mother were heavily involved in ministry people and children out there, I too needed so much that I hardly spent time with them. attention and I found it. So when I turned 14 and was going through puberty, my grandmother was the support Yes! Sadly I found it in a young boy who system together with uSis’MaNcu who knew nothing about God. I found it in a boy was the helper in the house. At that point, who told me he would give me the world. I it was already difficult to talk or open up to believed all that until he gave me his seed. I my mother. At 16, I had my first crush and was two months late into my periods. Even instantly became head over the moon with prayer couldn’t make this one disappear. I him. He had become my Prince Charming, remember running to “my man” the boy to my Hero and this was my fairy tale story. tell him of this new beautiful thing growing I dedicated all I was (well, just a form 4 girl inside of me and to what became my biggest with no money) to this relationship. I loved disappointment, my man fled. It was as if him with my heart so much that my brain no someone had cut open my heart and continlonger functioned, not even in school. ued to probe it with the sharp end of the knife. This was apocalypse and at its deadliMy grandmother began to pick all the signs. est. I thought he loved me and he wanted me
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to prove to him all along that I loved him too. This would have been our chance to prove our love to everyone. So there I was, the preacher’s daughter, pregnant and my Prince Charming suddenly unavailable. He was nowhere to be found after the news. Now I was back to that place again, alone. I soon realised that this world was harsh and cold and the world made sure that you don’t rise. I remembered how the number of young ladies who were shamed in front of the church. Instead of being restored they were condemned. I too began to feel the condemnation. How was I going to face my grandmother and my parents? I would have to stop pretending now, especially in church. Eventually it dawned to me that I was a preacher’s child and for many years they had been trying to keep a clean and holy profile about themselves so much that I was expected to be holiest daughter. Don’t get me wrong, I never blamed them for this but now I suddenly realised I was about to single handedly destroy their reputations. For another week, I cried alone and fell sick. This was so hard and new to me. I was going to be a mother and not finish school. To me, this would be the end of my independent life Continued: p18
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and all my dreams and goals. Yes, now I know it is not but at 16 and pregnant, this was the worst.
God just wants you to come as you are and He will always look out for you.
abandoned and so alone to fight this world. Except, God had placed my grandmother in the middle of it all. Through it all, I did not see her tears as she prayed for me and After the crying and debating, I spoke to fought the spiritual world. She loved me my best friend, who knew someone that unconditionally (not saying that my parents could help. I mean she was 16 as well and didn’t) but gogo stretched her hand out. I understood what I was fleeing so it only made remember on her death bed 6 years later, sense then that I take advice from her and she whispered to my ear “Forgive yourself comfort. Her advice and my decision led to and forgive the father of the baby. God just me meeting a “doctor” privately and that seed wants you to come as you are and He will I once had, was no more. No more because always look out for you” I couldn’t believe the “doctor” dealt with it. Let alone l was ill it. How did she know? So all this time for a week, l managed to hide the illnesses and the thought that I she knew and decided to love me and protect me. Whilst I was too could have died. I was under the same roof as my parents and they concerned about my parents I forgot that God had placed her in my never realised it all. How could this all happen under their nose and life. I could never express enough what it was like to feel loved by they just didn’t see it? Was it so obvious that my parents chose to God at that moment. concern themselves with other people and I came last in the chain? Is this what this religion was about? So whether you are a preacher’s child or not, God will never leave nor forsake you and always has the best plans for you and your future.MT Sadly I can never say our relationship was ever the same. I felt
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Continued from: p7
My mission is to work for one person & one agenda and that is the
Lord Jesus Christ His opinion is ALL THAT MATTERS -Hazel Herrington
ity crisis. Self-confidence and satisfaction in life depend on much more than looking good. True happiness comes from discovering and fulfilling your life’s purpose. So in essence it’s ok to learn from others but we must not be tempted to become them, because you cannot fulfill your purpose being someone else. We are all unique and were created to meet specific requirements for a specific target market. So we should never despise our cultural backgrounds, the color of our skin and even our body structures.
Continued from: p5 I have now visited many places in the UK that I probably would have never been to, as I still have no fixed income from employment due to visa constraints. When I arrived I was alone but my world has grown larger through the work I have done and the people I have met. I regularly visit London and while generally this is an expensive place to visit, the students I have accommodated at my house have in turn opened their homes to me when I visit. Without asking anything of them, people have been generous to me because of the support I have given them. When I showed kindness I wasn’t expecting anything in return. God’s principle is that of ‘sowing and reaping’. As l continue sowing, l am also reaping what l have sown. Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 (AMP) says: “Cast your bread on the surface of the waters, [be diligently active, make thoughtful decisions], for you will find it after many days. Give a portion to seven, or even [divide it] to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may
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a product is of low quality don’t over charge a product. Customers are relying on you to be trustworthy and reliable when purchasing your products. Provide fair and reasonable pricing for your goods and services for the enrichment of society. The bible in admonishes us in Phillipians 2:4 “Do not look into your own interest but into the interest of others”. In other words we must be conscious of other people’s feelings and have understanding and sympathy towards others even when we do business. We must glorify God and Jesus in our businesses by maintaining high standards by delivering quality products and service to our customers at all times.
Continue To Develop Your Skills
As entrepreneurs it is important to continue developing our personal skills. We need to be constantly increasing our wisdom, k n o w l e d g e a n d u n d e rs t a n d i n g o f o u r business and the word of God. If you need education, certifications, licensing, affiliaEverybody has a story so find a way to tions and/or associations, mentorship and monetize your story and think out of the box. life coaching go and research your avenues and set goals to achieve them. Set weekly, Create Value yearly and monthly goals and make sure you maintain them. As Christians the purpose of our businesses should not be only about making money, Finally, remember to Trust and put God first we must ensure that we are creating value in all that you do and all things will work for our customer’s and maintaining integri- together for your good.MT ty at all times. Our products must be of high quality and our customers must trust that “But seek first the kingdom of God and his we have their best interest at heart at all righteousness, and all these things will be times in order to have repeat customers. If added to you.” Matthew 6:33
occur on the earth. If the clouds are full [of rain], they empty themselves on the earth; and if a tree falls toward the south or toward the north, in the place where the tree falls, there it lies. He who watches the wind [waiting for all conditions to be perfect] will not sow [seed], and he who looks at the clouds will not reap [a harvest]. Just as you do not know the way and path of the wind or how the bones are formed in the womb of a pregnant woman, even so you do not know the activity of God who makes all things. Sow your seed in the morning and do not be idle with your hands in the evening, for you do not know whether morning or evening planting will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both alike will be good.”
given generously to me at Christmas and birthdays so from that I am able to buy clothes. Just last month, through a spirit led idea by a men’s home fellowship in Bradford, my name was nominated for a “Random act of (kitchen) kindness” (see ‘YouTube’ video). My friends conspired with them to take me out for the day, while my entire kitchen was being renovated with a brand new one. Local companies assisted by providing items at no cost, some as a donation of ‘community service’ while others gave their services for free. Much of this was said to have happened because of the kindness I show people through my daily voluntary work. Before this, most of my kitchen utensils were second-hand or donations, most of which were mismatched. Now it is equipped with brand new matching items. The story I never sit down and watch the clouds. has been shared via social media and Cooking for people during conferences is also by a US TV channel’s social media another way I have sown seed, and often, outlet. There has been a much bigger I don’t know what money I will have ripple effect to this act of kindness coming in or when. I am so grateful for than it just being about blessing me. MT the people God has placed in my life who have been a huge blessing. People have
Mind After Christ (MAC) Kids and Youth Holiday Pastor’s Kid : Our monthly foray into a selected PK’s life and challenges.
M
ost children and youth are found not knowing whether they believe in God or not. Despite attending church with their parents, their outlook of Christianity or church is only on a Sunday where adults have the front row sits to hear the uplifting message from the pulpit. During the main service children and the youth usually sit at the back so that they do distract their parents they their own service in a different room. Unfortunately the “away from parents” services have become more of babysitting sessions rather than fun, exciting and spiritual fulfilment. Only a few have parents who will send them to Christian camps and actively teach about God in their own homes. These are the children who can confidently tell you if they believe in God or not. Unfortunately in England not all churches are able to cater for children and youth’s needs. As such many young people grow up not knowing God for themselves resulting in them not discovering their God given talents and pathway.
in different leadership roles. They all shared a common interest in that they wanted to share Jesus at the level understood by young people. They realized that children/ youth needed an environment that will teach and empower them in life skills, knowledge and spiritual growth thereby increasing their level of confidence. This way they would become good leaders in the community. The level of support and training will inspire them to show compassion to others drawing from what has been deposited during the early years. Mind After Christ (MAC) is an annual camp for age group 13 to 17 years. MAC aims to engage with young people, teach and promote life skills such as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Career guidance and Personal relationship with God. The vision is to see each child walk in the G.A.P (Gifts, Abilities and Potentials) that God has placed within them, and excel in their domain- Jeremiah 29:11. Its common knowledge that children watch their parents go through all emotions in church and conferences when they themselves are detached from all. Actually some of children do not know who they are in God, they go to church because it is a family Sunday routine. .
Mind After Christ was started by a few young people who passionately wanted to teach and share about Jesus to their your siblings. They felt there was a gap that needed to be filled. Most those involved had worked with Scripture Union Zimbabwe Mind After Christ started its annual sleep
overs in homes as it was cost effective. After four years the objectives of the annual “sleep over” were accomplished. Thus more and more parents signed up their children and MAC grew through word of mouth. The growth led to MAC being affiliated to Scripture Union UK in 2014. With the support of Scripture Union MAC grew from 12 children to 50 children all from different ethnic backgrounds and race. As part of raising excellent community leaders, most of MAC campers are now leaders in their schools and church groups. This is evident that some have become more confident in their relationship with God. In fact 2 have become official leaders in MAC with 3 others being junior leaders with responsibilities during the camp. M.A.C UK reaches children and young people between the age groups 7 years to 17 years. 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. Taking care of ourselves and body and mind is very important to God. Good health means taking steps to care for body through exercise, keeping clean, smelling good and grooming. Over the years there were children who come for camp not expecting to engage in any kitchen tasks or cleaning or even Continued: p22
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Continued from: p21 keeping the sleeping area neat. We held polls and the results indicated that most children found chores to be boring. They did not understand the reasoning behind the importance of being independent and helping at home. Such activities are part of the program to encourage teamwork and responsibility. Through positive reinforcement and rewards those those that return to the next camp are changed. Some parents have witnessed the change in their children supporting at home. Health Cycle: The need to reach out to young girls and teach them about menstrual cycle and cleanliness has been in high demand. Improving personal care and hygiene especially in the 3rd world countries where girls are stigmatized is important to avoid girls having to miss out from school once a month. Unfortunately not all the girls understand or can independently manage to afford to buy their own personal hygiene items. This impacts on their interaction with the world and on their confidence. “The Beautiful Me” campaign hopes to partner up with individuals and organizations to train and supply sanitary pads and body sprays to improve cleanliness, good personal hygiene and confidence.
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T h e fo c u s fo r o u r b o y s i s h e l p t h e m understand how the mind works. A study by Mental Health Foundation found that not only are men far less likely to seek professional support than women, they are also less likely to disclose a mental health problem to friends and family. We believe in raising leaders and confident boys/men. So teaching them to have the mind like Christ and be bold men is protecting their mind. Proverbs 4:23 “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life”. Role Model: There is need for male role models to engage with younger boys and not only teach but demonstrate roles and responsibilities through their exemplary lives. “The Shield Me” campaign focuses on partnering up with male individuals who will teach and be of good godly example to the boys who attend the camp. Boys also need to improve personal hygiene and confidence. This year MAC engaged an amazing and experienced lady who focused on career guidance. Career guidance seminars include teachings on understanding of the education system, entrepreneurship and children’s strengths and weaknesses.
Last but not least. MAC’s vision share Jesus with the world. Jesus commands everyone to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation”. M.A.C believes in the importance of knowing God and having a personal relationship with Him. Campers learn to read and develop their own personal relationship with God through the Bible. They also learn how to hear the voice of God for themselves. The journey of Mind After Christ has not always been any easy one. It has taken prayer, relationship building and a lot of sacrifice. Over the years the leaders and children have openly spoken life into the camps. It has taken people to keep a positive mind and attitude to make it work. Faith without works is dead and MAC is a prime example of what can be when people follow the voice of God and push on. Scripture Union, parents, Friends and Ministers have taken time to contribute to its success. MAC continues the work and believes God has a lot more in store. It will be launched Zimbabwe shortly! MT
SWIPE TO
A FREE LIFE
Christian Sleepovers Career Guidance Camping Events Mentorship
In providing an environment that will teach and empower them in life skills, knowledge and spiritual growth, their confidence in level will increase and will in turn become good leaders in the community. Team Leader Vickie: 07958445203 or email: vickiestorm@qinisa.co.uk
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