Harusi Preparing the bride of Christ
Dec/Jan 2013
10+ Products movies, music, books and more
House and decor
How to Pamba your Boma this Christmas
health ZUMBA FITNESS
One on one
Angela Maina Miss Africa NY
Fashion
Goodbye 2012,hello 2013
sex
How big is his “Ego?”
Snap Booth The Safari Fashion week
Editorial Executive editor Thitu Kariba
Editor Cynthia Mugi
Contributors Tomothy Mwaura Relationships Relationships, Marriage, Sex, Talking spouses Namwano Schichende Kilele LTD Lifestyle Pamba Boma Health, Wealth, Food and Wine, Fashion, House and Decor Photography Leisure and Pleasure Bobby Pall Mike Chege Movies, Music, Tours and Travel, Books Thitu Kariba Special Features Princecam Media One the Grill, One on One, Whispers from Special thanks heaven, Letter from Miss Boss Angela Maina Snap Booth God Almighty Baby Banda, Nairobi International Trade Fair, Cover Thanks Giving Angela Maina
Welcome It is always a joy and pleasure to welcome you to flip through the pages of yet another issue of our magazine. It has been a long and yet short year, much has happened in what seems too short a time, I still recall January like it was yesterday, but all in all I am glad to see the year come to a close and usher in 2013. With new things comes change and at times we fear change because many fear the unknown. People had reservations about 2012 because they did not know what it had is store for them. A new job, a new relationship, new business prospects, that promotion, your wedding..These could have been some of the things the year carried with it. Others may have experience, heart break, the end of relationship, the failure of a business, the loss of a loved one, scars from an accident, divorce and retrenchment. All in all it has been 12mothns of life and living and we can thank God for that. There are days I just wanted to have come to an end and days I could not wait to begin and to be quite honest right about now I just want this year to end. It has been a hard year for me, not a bad year just a hard one. It was hard because I was growing rapidly and moving from one level of glory to another and I guess the best way to put it all would be growing pains. God has tested me, taken me through the fire to purify me, and pruned me, all tough and even painful but ever so rewarding and fulfilling. I know that as for me, 2012 was a year of my being made, prepared, readied and established in He that sent me so that in 2013 I may step into my place and have dominion. I know that I am not alone, and I encourage they that have gone through the same thing to take heart and rejoice for the coming of the new thing, for a life filled with purpose, for ruler ship and reign in 2013. Till then Have a Merry Christmas and a dominant new and full 2013. Thitu Kariba
Relationships
What’s your status? spouse in on face book too. Whether you are single, married, in a relationship, in a complicated situation, widowed, divorced and whatever else there is, it is crucial that you know your status where your health is concerned. This point has been emphasized over and over again, but it is because what you do not know could very well hurt you and the one you are with or even kill you. Many of us simply assume or get tested for HIV and forget that there are many other STD’ or STI’ that we could be carrying that we need to be tested for. There are some STI’ that are not easily These days, whenever someone refers to status one detected physically, some may present differently in men and women or nor at all. Looking safe, clean cannot help but draw to the conclusion that one is and healthy and being so are two different things. talking about face book. I suppose its only fair that We also assume that a condom will sort our issues; I touch on this kind of status before we go into any in fact many are so sure that even when they cheat other. I had recently had to change my face book they assume that because they used condoms, all relationship status from in a relationship to single, is well. In a relationship STI/STD can be passed on what that basically says to all my friends and his is that’s the relationship we had is now no more. Hav- from one partner to another through oral sex. Coning to make that change is not cool nor is it easy or ditions such as warts, yeast infections just to name a few can be passed from one to another this way. fun and it does not help when people go on and on about it and to make matter worse when others Condoms are not the only way to protect yourself, knowing your status is. Your status may read in a begin to hit on you right there and then. The thing relationship, but the doctor’s notes on your status about the Face book status is that, it seems one is dammed if they don’t state what is it and dammed if could read in need of treatment. It is crucial that once we decide that we are in a they do. If you are a in a relationship and do not change your relationship that the only status we do not worry status to read as such it becomes an issue and when or concern ourselves with is our Face book one but our health too and not just HIV. This status could the time comes to change it especially when it’s very well determine the state of your relationship, not in form of a development such as engaged or married, it can be heart wrenching. That status very marriage and family should that be the case. If you much tells everyone your business, when things are decide to be in a relationship, commit to it, using good that’s great but when there are not, it’s a whole a condom when you step out on the one you are with may not protect them from what you can new ball game. One thing I do believe however is catch orally/ skin to skin and it for sure does not that, if you are in a relationship, you status should say so, this shows commitment, respect and honor to protect from heart ache and pain, not to mention the one you are with and on social media it prevents undesirable medical test, treatment and bills. many unwanted posts showing up on your wall and at least if they do, your status did not encourage it. If married, I do believe that your status must read as such this is one relationship, where there should be no room for error or assumption especially if your
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Marriage
How to beat your husband I took some time to think about what I would write on marriage this time around when domestic violence came to mind, and as I developed the thought some more, it took a turn in a whole new direction. We have often heard of men who beat their wives and now I write about how to beat your husband from a different perspective. As I was making my way to through the city to one of my appointments, I tuned into some station that was discussing how to beat your husband in the very way that I had planned to bring it to you, in fact the guest speaker has a book out with that very title and though I do not have a copy of it, I was glad to hear that I was not far off my course. It took me back to a story a woman once shared with us and now I share it with you as she really captured the teaching and practice of how to beat your husband. I sat in a church service once when a lady came up to give her testimony of how her husband used to drink and even get violent with her. She went on to say that she would argue with him and fight him on his coming late and making demands, she would even refuse to open the door and at times he would have to sleep in the car till morning. Their marriage was on the rocks and the environment at home was hostile, she tried everything until one day she tried her bible. Although she was and is a Christian woman, submission was not something she
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
had in mind when it came to her husband, she was under the impression that submission meant allowing him to walk all over her and she was not having it. This time around however, after praying she chose to give it a shot, she had nothing left to lose but her husband who was on his way out anyway. That evening her husband and his friends went out drinking till the wee hours, and as usual they came knocking at the door and making demands. This time around however, she did not fight him she opened the door and welcomed them in warmly. They had brought some chicken they wanted cooked and she not only prepared it cooked a wonderful meal for them, but she sat with them and talked as they ate. She continued to do this and soon enough her husband’s friends began to change and eventually stopped drinking all together and became the men their families needed. They longed fort themselves and in their homes what their friend was getting every night. They even pleaded with him to treat his wife better and appreciate how great she truly was. As a result, her husband found himself alone with no one to go out drinking with. Eventually he and his wife began a whole new relationship, the drinking stopped but the intimate dinners continued and they became closer than ever. She fought and won, she beat her husband, won his heart and saved their marriage. The world thinks it has all the answers where marriage goes but marriage is Gods idea and He knows how best to make it work. He showed this woman how to beat her husband and it worked. The world may tell you to take him to court, get a divorce and take him for all he has, but God will have you submit, respect him and watch as he willingly and lovingly gives you all his got and still stay married. Women are powerful beings and wives have great influence over their husbands and submission is the key to getting it all even as you give your all so there is no looser and no one gets the short end of the stick. If you want to know how to beat your husband, club him over the head with submission, respect and love. Note however that if you are in a dangerous situation you ought to get yourself out of danger first as you work on the way forward.
sex
Pee wee Herman or Professor Klump Does this size matter? Not long ago I was sitting with a sex specialist who was asked by a man whether he should be concerned about his size where pleasing his wife is concerned. He stated that pleasing his wife seems to be a difficult thing to do although he is well endowed, and was confused because he believed that size was what mattered in the bedroom and expected big applause to go with his big ‘ego’ but that was not the case. I have also been in the presence of many men who seem to think the bigger the ‘ego’ the greater the victory. Thought this seems to be the assumption amongst men, should it not be determined by the ones who have so sleep with them? Whether he is working with Pee wee Hermon or Professor klump does his size matter to his woman? The expert told the man the size issue was a myth and that most big men often hurt their women because they assume having a big ego means you can just get on, get it on and get done. Some well endowed men put little effort into the foreplay and affection and assume that their Professor klump is all they need and as a result, the woman Is usually still tense and has to endure and not enjoy sex. The mind remains the biggest sexual organ, so if she is not relaxed and fully into it, the results are not good. When a man takes time to hold her, kiss on her, and get the fore play going
the mind and the body respond favorable. This particular man had been hurting his wife because he never took the time to get her into it and part of the issue was that as a result she was never well lubricated and so his big ego did more harm than good. She complained of lower abdominal pain and more and often avoided intimacy with him all together. In another case the man did not have as big an ‘ego’ but his wife enjoyed multiple orgasms and at times even without him having to enter her. This wife said that her husband took the time to get to know what she likes, he romanced her and the foreplay was amazing. He could spend the entire day sending her messages, calling and saying things that got her in the mood and by the time he got home she had prepared him his favorite meal and had gone out to get some new hot and sexy things to wear for him and she could not wait to have him. She had noticed that her husband was not all that big in size but the pleasure he gave to her was beyond measure
regardless. In conclusion the expert said that when it comes to women, loving her Is what counts. Its not the size of your ego but the size of your heart towards her. If and when you love our woman, your wife she will love you, all of you head to toe and everything in between, whether it is a scar, a pot belly and no matter the size of your ‘ego’. Men can go on and on about their size and be the big man on campus where the boys are concerned, but, if you really want to know if he has what it takes to get it on don’t look at what’s in his pants, look to his woman. There is still the issue of lust over love and one must understand that lust is never satisfied, you may have a woman who goes out looking for men with big ‘egos’ however in most cases they still won’t have enough. When they overcome the issue of lust and find love they will find contentment, not because of the size but because of all that love is
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Talking Spouces
When is Adultery okay? I have never been married, but I have been in relationships before and I have had the one I am with cheat on me. One can never quite describe the pain that goes on within when something like that happens. It is trust broken, love betrayed, heart crushed not to mention a friendship and relationship endangered. At times it is even health risked. Many of the HIV infections and other sexually transmitted infections come by way of unfaithfulness or as we have come to call them mpago wa kando. The level of wrong that is done goes beyond making the wrong choice and this is just in a relationship, how about marriage? If cheating in a relationship is wrong, could adultery in marriage possibly be okay? I am aware that in certain religions a man could have up to four wives and in such a case I am not sure if having a fifth then qualifies as adultery or if they have any clause concerning adultery, however, as a Christian and living in a Christian nation adultery is when a married man or woman have an affair physical, emotional or otherwise with someone other their spouse. Adultery is biblically wrong and a sin and speaking as a human being, I am not sure many women or men would willingly opt to share their lovers/spouses with another. If it hurts in a relationship, I must hurt even more in a marriage and in a family. Don’t you have to be in an extra marital
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
affair for you to acquire a second, third or fourth wife? If you are going to marry the person does is mean it is not adultery? Does that then make It ok?
up and saying he or she is already married would be reason enough. In countries such as the US it is a felony or crime to be married to two people at the same time.
I cannot speak for everyone, though, I find that mankind has found ways, loopholes that rightfully allows for things that are wrong by calling it something else. Regardless of the title we give it, the effects, the feelings, the results are the same. Lately I have read the stories of two young women who have opened up to being second wives. The term wives or wife in this case puts a ring of acceptability on the whole matter but the means in which that end was reached is what is referred to as adultery. Marrying your mpago wa kando is not making an honest woman of her, but it sure is making life difficult for your wife and children if there are any. When trying to get a marriage license, there investigations made as to whether one is already married, when getting married the persist even asks for reasons the two would not be married, I am sure rising
If men or women were to come to their spouses and say that they are entering into an extra marital affair in hopes of getting a second wife would that still not be adultery? (Keeping in mind the earlier definition of adultery) Unless death or divorce does you part there is there need for another? Marriage is not like a car, you do not carry along a spare wheel just in case you get a flat. You stop, fix the flat and get on with your journey. If having a second wife then is acceptable, should it not be across the board where a woman too can get up to 4 husbands or at least a second? If you marry them and make them your second spouse does not meant its not adultery? Does this then mean adultery is okay as long as you marry them eventually?
Wealth
Career planning is important regardless of whether or not you are employed. If you are in employment, it is important that you think about how long you are going to be employed and also what you are going to do with yourself should the job come to an end. It is important that in the meantime you make a plan to move up the corporate ladder. Most people leave it all to chance when that should not be so. Goal setting for career planning will enable you to move up the ladder faster.
Lifestyle going back to school for your masters. Goal setting for career planning is a brilliant way to ensure that you are constantly making progress towards your dreams. Set goals for what you want to accomplish from day to day and from week to week. Start by writing down where you want to be in the next 5 years and then find out what you
need to do to get there. Once you know what you need to do to achieve your 5 year goals, put together an action plan of how you will get there. Review your goals and action plan often to ensure that you are still in on track with your timelines.
Goal Setting For Career Planning
I am a firm believer that you should only stay in a job as long as you are learning and it challenges you to grow. If none of that is happening you are basically just passing time and paying bills. Your personal growth and development is a great motivator in employment. So what is a career plan anyway? A career plan is a written action plan about the various steps you will take in order to achieve a particular career goal. It could be that you want to someday be the MD of the organization you are working for. That may mean getting an MBA. A career plan takes that into account meaning that part of your goal setting for career planning will including Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Lifestyle and if you have, find out what you should be doing at this time. Seeking God’s timing will make things run smoother for you. With God’s timing comes provision and blessing and with that the anointing for ease. Business does not need to be a struggle or even to be done in your own strength. Yours is to find out what his goals are, what milestones he has in place and the timing of it all and then simply walk it out.
Wealth
Does God Have Goals for Your Business? Before you can answer that question you have to understand that God created you for a purpose. My assumption as I write this article is that up to this point, God has led you to starting a business or even thinking about starting a business. If so, then you are in that business because God has a purpose for you in it. Not only does he have a purpose for you, he has a purpose for your business. He has a plan for it and it has a purpose…a goal. So, does God have goals for your business? The answer is yes! If you are a marketplace Christian, then God has a role for you to play in the world of business. He has something he wants you to achieve with Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
an end goal in mind. It is up to you as a believer to ask God what those goals are and then align yourself to the same. The concept of stewardship comes into play at this juncture. If you are a steward of a business that truly belongs to God, you are not the owner of it. He is. You are simply the manager or overseer of what He has put in your trust. You have to be faithful then, to do what the owner of the business trusts you to do. A goal is not a goal if it has no time frame in which it must be accomplished. Start by consulting the owner of the business about when he would like you to start, (if you haven’t already),
The challenge is that we think we own the business. We forget to consult the true owner and judge simply by the evidence provided for us. As a result we make many mistakes and miss out on his perfect timing. Because we do not know the reason for the business, we think it is only about making money and miss the heart of what God wanted to do with it. So the question remains, does God have goals for your business? If so, do you know what those goals are? I challenge you to find out what goals God has for the work you are doing. Find his intentions and his heart about it and make them your own. I am guaranteed to see you on the other side of success if you do.
Health
Lifestyle
Month after month we go shopping to replenish our pantries and feed our families. However, are you feeding them life or death? All foods are not equal and there are some that bring life and others that incubate death.
use. Dead Foods
Dead foods on the other hand have been through the wringer, literally, and all the good stuff has been wrung out of them. They are stomach fillers void of Living Foods nutrition. They have been Living foods include veggies, altered in many ways to fruits, nuts, seeds and grains ensure that they can last that exist in a raw or nearly for years without spoiling. raw state. They come packed Often this process includes in their divine wrappers also adding lots of sugar or salt known as peels or skins and to the product or adding they look healthy, robust and manmade fat. This fat is alive! Living foods have not generally boiled at very been modified, enhanced, re- high temperatures in order fined, preserved or bleached. to kill all nutrients. In turn They have simply been harwhat is created is somevested, dried where necesthing totally different that sary and packaged for your is sludgy and toxic to the
human body. So Why Eat Living Foods? When you eat living foods the enzymes that are in them will interact with your digestive enzymes to break down the food and bring out all the nutrients in it to be used by your body. These include the fiber, vitamins, polynutrients, minerals, antioxidants and more. These are the nutrients that are usually sucked out in processed foods. They are the nutrients that were designed to ensure that your body organs, blood stream and digestive system are working at their very best. To be healthy, energetic and vibrant take what you eat and what you feed your family seriously.
Living Foods vs Dead Foods: What’s the Difference?
Health
Lifestyle
Zumba: Ditch the Workout, Join the Party If you haven’t heard of Zumba you are missing out! Zumba is a dance fitness program that is Colombian in origin and was created by Alberto “Beto” Perez. Beto, a dancer and choreographer by profession, created Zumba in the 1990s. The Zumba fitness program blends both aerobics and dance and takes on choreography that incorporates various dance moves. Bollywood, belly dance, meringue, samba, martial arts, hip hop, soca and mambo are all included in the choreography that makes up Zumba dance. In addition, lunges and squats are included to make you feel the burn and tone muscles in your lower body. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Zumba is quickly taking root in Kenya with certified trainers taking you through the hour long sessions. Each of these Zumba instructors are certified by the Zumba Academy. The music played has both slow and fast rhythms and can also include resistance training. It originates from various Hispanic styles including chacha, mambo, meringue, flamenco, salsa and more. The classes offered will depend on your fitness level as they take into consideration exertion and age of the participants. They include: •
Zumba
•
Zumba Toning
•
Zumba Gold
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Zumba Atomic
•
Aqua Zumba
A typical Zumba class burns anywhere between 500 to 1000 calories so come prepared to sweat! Celebrity Zumba fans include Halle Berry, Victoria Beckham, Tony Braxton and Jennifer Lopez among others. You are in good company! If you are interested in joining the party, check out page 14 of the Harusi Magazine here, for Liz Baregu’s contacts, one of the certified Kenyan Zumba instructors. Tell her Harusi sent ya!
House & Decor
Decorative Table Setting For The Christmas Dinner
You must agree that the table setting for your Christmas dinner is much more than all your favorite dishes. You need to dress up the table and the icing on the cake is usually the dinnerware. A good dinner table decoration will have everything in place and complementing each Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
other. One important thing to note is the Christmas colors you have used in holiday decorating and incorporate these in your dinnerware. You will probably have a casual get together without a sit down dinner but set the
table nevertheless. The effort will be well worth it and will bring out the sweetness of all the delicacies you have spent time preparing. Start with a table cloth if you so desire and white is a good neutral base. Other colors and patterns will work too depending on your theme.
Lifestyle Next comes the runner and then the place mats. Your dinner table decoration has the perfect backdrop. A charger is a classy piece of dinner ware that will add elegance to your table and can act as a place mat. Place your beautiful dinner plates on this. You can go neutral with white or another solid color or add some drama with holiday inspired plates. If you do not have a complete matching set work with interesting combinations of 3s, 4s, 5s or 6s. Plates with a Christmas tree or Santa decoration will accentuate the holiday mood. Lay your cutlery around your plates depending on the prepared meal. The knives go on the right while the forks stay on the left hand of the plate with the spoons at the top. If yours is a typical Kenyan family, your cutlery may remain untouched as your guests use their fingers naturally. Of course it depends on the menu. Do not forget the glasses for soft drinks, egg nog or just plain water. Your table decoration will not be complete without matching napkins held with creative ornaments
House & Decor
Lifestyle
Wall Art as Accessories in Christmas Décor the tape and voila!
You have picked out your Christmas decorations and you are all set for a spectacular and personalized Christmas décor. But how do your walls look like, do you have some art on it or is it bare? You can put a stamp on your Christmas decorations by putting up some wall art relevant to the season. You have a wide choice from murals, metal wall art, collages and mosaics. Your family can get involved as you create masterpieces for your holiday decorating. If you choose to do a mural make sure that it will still
look good after the holiday is over. This is a huge step that might take quite some planning and thinking through. A simpler way of having dramatic Christmas décor is by using decals. These are stuck right on your painted wall and none will be the wiser. Christmas decals can depict the nativity scene or a simple Christmas tree. You may also create your own art if you have a blank piece of canvas. Frame it well and run some artist’s tape across it in a beautiful design. Add color to the canvas, let it dry and remove
However there are several easy and versatile ideas such as framing pieces of left over wallpaper. The idea is to keep the Christmas décor simple yet dramatic by using the same color of frame for different designs of wallpaper with a common color. Alternatively the same wallpaper design can be framed in differently colored frames. Gift wrapping paper and fabric are an appropriate alternative to wallpaper. Several Christmas postcards make a beautiful collage when framed together to tell the Christmas story. Display this on your wall for a unique Christmas décor idea. Your mirror does not have to be left bare this holiday season. Pick some beautiful tiles in some of the holiday colors and stick this on your mirror using an appropriate adhesive. This style can be maintained even after the holidays as long as the color does not overwhelm the room. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
House & Decor Ho! Ho! Ho! Christmas time is here and you need to get your holiday decorating on. You have probably got your indoor décor down pat, but what about your garden, front porch or yard? This is the perfect place to put up that wonderful reindeer that doesn’t quite fit into your living room. Other Christmas figurines such as those in the nativity scene would be quite at home in your front porch too. This year splash out a little in your Christmas decorating and include dramatic and beautiful items in your garden. Chancing that the weather would be good, the Christmas garden décor would be a stunner during your barbeque and indeed a garden focal point. When it comes to garden décor, you can recreate the entire nativity scene if you are not limited by space. All you need is a good eye to locate the best spot which could be in the middle of the garden under a tree or on your patio. Why not lay some fake snow and give
Lifestyle your Santa scene a ‘real’ environment. To make this scene even more spectacular, get all the reindeers to pull the sleigh as Santa rolls in. Add some lights to the arrangement wonderful night time display. You need to match your figurines and scene decorating with the space available. A small figurine in a large space will not be visible yet a very large one in a small space will lead to a cluttered and crowded feeling. One other way to make use of figurines for Christmas decorating is using elves as garden gnomes. Make this garden décor theme lively by getting elves in interesting poses. They can act as stands for your bird baths and some lights on them will brighten up the entire set up. The lighting bit works for all the Christmas garden décor as a way of celebrating the light that has come to the world.
Decorating Exterior with Figurines or Scenes
House & Decor
Lifestyle
Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas
es or pots to make your Christmas tree blend in with your African décor. Indulge your little girl and use dolls on your tree or toy cars for your little boy’s delight. This idea works well when the Christmas tree will be in their room.
Everyone looks forward to Christmas. It is a magical time with wonderful feelings that are heightened by the interior décor that goes with this season. There is a celebratory air that is just undeniable at this time. One of the must-have items for this season and one that takes the center stage in holiday décor is the Christmas tree. It actually forms the focal point in many homes and it is usually decorated accordingly. So how do you get the perfect Christmas tree décor for your home? The first thing to consider is the theme. Here your imagination and creativity rules. Regular themes include angels, bows or snowflakes but you are not limited to these and you can personalize your Christmas tree décor. You may opt for small calabash-
Equally important is to get a colour scheme going. Consider your room’s colour scheme and the tree decorations you intend to use. The two must match. Traditional Christmas colours include red, green, white, blue, gold and silver. This is a wide variety but if your room’s palette disagrees with these, then create your own unique colour scheme with, say, pink, purple or yellow. Do not forget to light up your Christmas tree adequately. A string of a hundred lights is sufficient for a one-foot tree. Run it in circles around your Christmas tree or from top to bottom. For that wonderful finishing touch add ribbons in your chosen colour This can be tied in bows and also around the Christmas tree trunk and base. A star or bow looks elegant as a topper and you can use African inspired ones to ground your Christmas tree décor. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Food & Wine If you plan on hosting a Christmas dinner, you should make it as memorable as possible. A lot goes into organizing the perfect Christmas dinner. This is because unlike other meals like thanksgiving meals where maintaining tradition is of the essence, you have to be creative when it comes to Christmas food. Planning will help you to make sure everything you must do is done on time and will ensure that your reception is a success. Prepare in advance what you are going to cook and prepare. Make sure to know also what people like and don't like as you don't want to give a bad surprise to your guests. Prepare also what beverages you are going to serve with your aperitif and dinner and after your dinner. Have your rooms nicely decorated with a Christmas themed will ensure the Christmas Magical spirit is there. Remember that the more creativity you put in the more your guests satisfaction will be. Have your table set up like you have never done before. Use some example of some restaurant you have been or perhaps Google Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
it. Try not to overload your table of decorations and unnecessary tableware. If you are using candles on the tables, ensure that they are harmless and safe. It is important to invite people whom will get along fine with other guests or family relatives. Even if you are having a Christmas with no outside guests, just your “little family” if it happen to be that way. Know a music that reflect the Christmas Spirit and try to use some nice and soft music to have as background music. You are the maître d'hotel, the captain. Discuss between the team to determine who is going to do what and when. Wel-
Lifestyle come your guests by they names with a big smile and a genuine feeling of happiness. End the night with wine, tea, coffee time and digestives.
How to Organize A Christmas Dinner like a Pro Maître d'Hotel
Food and wine
Lifestyle
Healthy Lunch Options
Why don’t you start the New Year on the right footing by eating healthy? If you over indulged on thanksgiving and Christmas, it is time you ate healthy. There are several New Years food options that you should consider for your lunch and dinner. Soups are great winter warmer which is a healthy and low cost. There is a bit of work to do preparing the ingredients and cooking them, but you could prepare early make big batches and freeze them in portion size containers to defrost as and when needed. There are many options when it comes to flavors and ingredients and you can, therefore, experiment.
10 minutes you will have Salads are great if you want to an accompaniment to knock up your 5 a day. They are fish, meat, or cooked vegeasy to prepare and relatively etables. Couscous is great cheap. This is a good way to fill because it can be eaten hot or cold. up without the risk of feeling lethargic after. Note that the dressing constitutes of almost Consider a Jacket Potato. all the calories and you should, This is a blank canvas that therefore, choose carefully. allows you to experiment One of the best options is bal- with different fillings. It samic olive oil. is a very versatile meal that you could eat hot or cold. Yet another option Yet another option for your is Tortilla Wrap. It is comNew Years or even thanksgiving lunch is couscous. This is a monly prepared with meat good option if you want some- to make dishes like tacos and burritos, but there are thing different. It is, indeed, also versions that do not the best option if you want a have meat in them. Do not healthy meal and you do not have much time to spare (such forget a bottle of wine to as if you have surprise guests). wash down the meal and Just soak it in hot water and in to mark the occasion Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Fashion
Life style
Have a fabulous Merry Xmass! The festive season is here! During the festive season people seem more relaxed and pay attention to their wardrobe. So how does one ensure that they are always a hit and not a miss style wise during the festive season? Here are a few favourite picks that will help you turn heads for the right reason. 1.
The little white dress.
Forget the little black dress this festive season; try the little white dress. Very versatile; the stylish little white dress can be dressed up by pairing it with a chunky necklace or pearls and a pair of heels. Add a colourful clutch bag in red, green or yellow. Push limits with a classy biker jacket and ankle boots. If you are going to the beach simple beaded sandals do the trick. 2.
Tuxedo jacket
This has to be the best buys this season. A tuxedo jacket has no collar so relax you won’t look like you are wearing your office jacket. Wear it with chino pants or with denims. Grace the red carpet with a well fitting tuxedo jacket over your dress; you will look amazing while staying warm at the same time. 3.
Sheer maxi skirt
The sheer trend is slowly growing. Sheer Maxis are simple and easy to accessorize as they go with anything. Wear heels for a sexier look and brogues for a casual look. Pair with a sheer blouse or knit top. Be daring and colour block remember to wear colours in the same class. Ensure that your maxi skirt has a slip underneath so that you don’t show your goodies. However you choose to step out this festive season, remember you aren’t fully dressed if you are not confident or wearing a smile. Merry Christmas Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Fashion
STYLE RESOLUTIONS 2013
Life style 2012 is coming to a close mp people. Are you already working on your resolutions? Here are simple fashion and style resolutions to get you started off in 2013 looking and feeling fabulous. 1.
WEAR CLOTHES YOUR SIZE
The first secret to looking and feeling good is to wear clothes that are made to fit you. Take time and go to a tailor to measure you and after that using a size guide find out your exact size. If you are a size 12 and wear size 10 clothes you end up looking like a size 14. Dressing your size brings out your true self. 2.
WEAR SHOES YOUR SIZE
Have you seen the board in shoe shops for measuring shoe size? Next time you see it put your foot on it. Wearing shoes your size will enable you to walk better and your feet will hurt less. Remember shoe sizes vary from country to country so ensure you know your fit. 3.
KNOW YOUR SKIN TYPE
How can you take care of something you don’t know? Know your skin by simply doing a skin test. Visit a cosmetic shop and test the foundation and powder to find what goes with skin. When you wear the correct foundation, you are halfway there to a flawless face. 4.
EAT RIGHT
Taking care of your body is the ultimate way of showing how much you love yourself. Go ahead and cut down on processed foods and sugars. Eat more fiber and drink more water. 5.
LAUGH OUT LOUD
I know you are wondering, how is that a style resolution? Many times we take our style so serious and always wonder it’s a yay or a nay. So learn to laugh out loud at your mistakes and at your accomplishments. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Leisure & pleasure
Travel & Tours
Safari Adventure Destinations in Kenya
Kenya is undoubtedly the tourisim and safari haven. You will find the big 5 in their natural habitat here. There are several safari adventure destinations in the country, one being Tsavo West. Tsavo was made famous by the man-eaters of Tsavo which were man-eating lions that attacked the constructors of the Kenya-Uganda railway. The Tsavo West National Park is a vast expansion of African savanna with a more diverse array of habitats including open plains, semi desert scrub, woodland, Chyulu Hills and rock outcrops. It’s famous for the Red Elephants, Oryx, and Gerenuk among other mammal’s species and bird life. Other notable features include Mzima Springs which are wa-
ter source for Mombasa Town, Shetani Lava Flow and Ash cones, which is an example of recent volcanic eruption. The Movie Ghost and the Darkness was shot here. The best place to stay in your Tsavo West travel is the Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge. The lodge is superbly situated in the lee of Mount Kilimanjaro and sheltered by the volcanic splendour of the Chyulu Hills. The classic stone-built lodge overlooks its own water hole, which is visited daily by elephants, buffalos and a wide variety of plains game. There are 3 game drives daily with dedicated wilderness guides. If you want a truly authentic wilderness experi-
ence, there is a rock-built bar overlooking the water hole, a dedicated bush dining area, and a garden swimming pool and sundeck. You also get guided nature walks or bird-watching walks, dinner in the bush, breakfast on Lion Rock, sundowners on Roaring Rocks, African theme nights, and visits to the Akamba communities. The lodge includes such modern amenities as Satellite TV (in communal areas only), Wi-Fi, 24-hour on-call medical services, and massages, facials, pedicures, and manicures. The lodge is located a short drive from the main Mtito Andei Gate, 280 kilometers from Nairobi. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Music
and their children who are Gospel Music out looking for an excuse not to this December & succeed in life in spite of their circumstances. There are no JaNuary 2013 mistakes in this world from If you are looking to buy a good something as powerful as the gospel music this December, gift of life. consider buying “All Day” by Previous albums by Murphy William Murphy III. The songs in this audio CD include Good, include the 2005 All Day, the 2007 The Sound, and the Hear My Prayer, Be Strong 2011 We Are One. His latest (featuring Bishop William H. releases have been released Murphy, Jr.), Be Strong (Reprise) (featuring Dr. William H. under Murphy 3 Ministries Murphy, Sr. and Bishop William label. The latest album has H. Murphy, Jr.), Created To Wor- been recorded live in Atlanta, GA. ship, I Know Why I Am Here (, Healing Worship (with "Praise Is What I Do" Intro), Praise Is What I Do, Awesome (, Let It Rise (featuring Jessie Gonzalez), One Pure And Holy Passion (featuring Lili Wilson), One Pure And Holy Passion (Live Album Version Reprise),Ignite My Fire, I Don't Know Why, and All Day.
William Murphy III makes you feel as if he is singing directly to the Lord. His testimony will touch so many young women Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Leisure & pleasure
This is the second gospel release for the Louisiana native who has over 15 veteran years in the music industry. Randall released his first indie gospel album titled “Sinners Have Souls Too” in 2007. The album received a great response from consumers. Since then, Randall went on to launch his own label, Lavish Records that Troubled Times will be released on. Randall plays the dual role of both recording artist and President and CEO of the label. Original Man Entertainment Group, Inc. (OMEG) is a full-scale production and management entity poised as one Tracy Randall’s sophomore of the newest album “Troubled Times” is set and most innovative music to be released on the 11th of and film companies in the December, 2012. This is one world. of the most anticipated albums of the year. The songs As Tracy Randall continues in the album offer a masto build bridges between terful blend of current R&B mainstream and gospel he sounds with the inspiring presents Troubled Times as lyrics of gospel. The album a must-have for contempohas 14 songs that reflect today’s turbulent world. Ran- rary gospel fans. dall offers peace, hope, and love through his music. He coined the popular phrase 'rhythm & gospel'.
Music
Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers are set to release his latest album, “Bless This House (the songs come in 2 CDs)”. The album will be released on the 22nd of January, 2013. Kurt Carr has received several awards over the years. He is set to receive the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award at the 28th Annual Stellar Awards this January. His previous albums include the 1991 Together, the 1994 Serious About It, the 1997 No One Else, the 2000 Awesome Wonder, the 2005 One Church, and the 2008 Just the Beginning. Kurt Carr was born on the 12th of October, 1964. He is an American gospel music composer and performer. He began his music career in Hartford, Connecticut as he served as Minister of Music at The First Baptist Church of Hartford. Kurt Kurt was Andrae Crouch's piano accompanist for Crouch’s music ministry for one year. After playing there for a year, Rev. James Cleveland hired Carr to be musical director and pianist for his
Leisure & pleasure ministry. He was employed The Invitation (released April there for 7 years until Cleve- 29, 2008), and As Long As land died. Eventually, Carr It Takes (released March 2, became director of the 2010). West Los Angeles Church of The first release of the 11God in Christ Choir, where track album was “Not For he had the opportunity to A Moment”. The song was work with both Secular and released on the 31st of Gospel musical artists, such July, 2012. It was written by as Stevie Wonder, Gladys Andrews, Mia Fieldes, and Knight, Yolanda Adams, and Jacob Sooter and produced Kirk Franklin. His “The Kurt by Paul Maybury. Carr Singers” was formed in 1989. It includes Yvette Wil- Meredith Sooter (born Anliams, Nakitta Foxx, Michelle drews) is a worship leader and a contemporary ChrisPrather, Timiney FigueroaCaton, Vonnie Lopez, Nikki tian music artist. She grew up in Wilson, North Carolina, Potts, and Troy Bright. where she started singing when she was 6 years old. She graduated from Wilson Christian Academy. Andrews later attended the Liberty University in Virginia. She is married to Jacob Sooter and they have 3 If you are looking for good kids. gospel music January 2013, one of the most anticipated Other albums out this January include Chris Tomlin’s albums is “Worth It All” by Burning Lights, Capital Meredith Andrews. This is the 3rd studio album of the Kings’s Capital Kings, and 2-time Dove Award Winner. Donald Lawrence & The The album will be released Tri-City Singes’s Seasons: A 20 Year Celebration. Others on the 22nd of January. are Karyn Williams’s Only Previous albums from Andrews include Mesmerized You, Kim Walker-Smith’s Still Believe, and Jason Castro’s (released April 12, 2005), Only A Mountain. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Movies
Movies This December & January 2013
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey If you loved the Lord of the Rings trilogy, you will love “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”. The movie is based on the Hobbits popularized by the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The movie revolves around a curious Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, who journeys to the Lonely Mountain with a vigorous group of Dwarves with the aim of reclaiming lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor that was stolen from them by the fearful dragon Smaug. Bilbo is aproached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf and he finds himself joining a company of 13 dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield, the legendary warrior. Their journey takes them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Orcs and Goblins, deadly Gian Spiders and Wargs, Sorcerers, and ShapeshiftHarusi Magazine Dec/Jan
ers. Their goal lies to the East and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain, but first they must escape the goblin tunnels. Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever – Gollum. Alone with Gollum on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him. I will leave the rest for the movie. The adventure/fantasy film will first appear in cinema on the 14th of December. Starring in the movie are Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, and Richard Armitage. Other movies out this December include Cheerful Weather for the Wedding, White Men Can't Dance, Amour, Any Day Now, The Guilt Trip, Not Fade Away, The Impossible, and Promised Land.
Leisure & pleasure
Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away
If you are on the lookout for a movie to watch with family this December, one of the most widely anticipated family movies is Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away. The 91 minutes fantasy will hit the cinema on the 21st of December, just in time for Christmas! The movie is written, directed, and produced by Andrew Adamson. Starring in the movie are Erica Linz as Mia and Igor Zaripov as The Aerialist, with Dallas Barnett as Boss, John Clarke as Sad Clown, Alessandro D'Agostini as Bateau Catcher, Matt Gillanders as Fire Breather, Lutz Halbhubner as Ringmaster, Caroline Lauzon as Bateau flyer, and Taras Shevchenko as Fireman. Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away is based on the premise “There are worlds beyond dreams, illusion and imagination, where human beings are capable of anything. Where love rules, and everything your heart yearns for is beautifully, incredibly real.” It is inspired by the unique and creative universe of Cirque du Soleil. Another of the movies in cinema this December (Decem-
Movies ber 21st) is “This Is 40”. You will love the movie if you loved “Knocked Up” since it is a spin-off comedy of the movie. Starring in the Judd Apatow are Leslie Mann as Debbie and Paul Rudd as Pete, with Megan Fox, Melissa McCarthy, Albert Brooks, and Ryan Lee.
Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters
One of the most anticipated movies in January 2013 is Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters. The movie will hit the cinema on the 25th of January, 2013 in 3D/2D and IMAX. The movie is directed by Tommy Wirkola. Starring in the movie are Jeremy Renner as Hansel, Gemma Arterton as Gretel, Famke Janssen as Muriel, Ingrid Bolso as Berdal, Peter Stormare as Berringer, and Thomas Mann. The movie takes place 15 years after Hansel and Gretel (who are siblings) have an incident at the gingerbread
house. The two are now specialized bounty hunters who are looking to put down the cackling black-hat set. The action-adventure horror film is a continuation to the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel by the Brothers Grimm. Hansel and Gretel are looking to destroy Muriel who is the leader of a coven of evil witches. The siblings have turned into vengeful bounty hunters who are dedicated to exterminating witches. Over the 15 years, the siblings became expert hunters who are famous for their proficiency at tracking and taking down their prey. Although the two are still recovering from their ordeal, their work is relatively easy because for an unknown reason, harmful curses and spells do not work well against them
John Dies at the End If you are looking for something different in cinema this January, one of the most anticipated movies is John Dies at the End. This is an American dark comedy-horror film that is written and directed by Don Coscarelli. The movie is based upon the David Wong novel that goes by the same name. Starring in the movie are Chase Williamson as David Wong and Rob Mayes as John, with Angus Scrimm, Clancy Brown, Paul Giamatti, Glynn
Leisure & pleasure Turman, Jimmy Wong, Doug Jones, and Daniel Roebuck. John Dies at the End revolves around, Soy Sauce, a drug that promises an out-of-body experience with each hit. The drug causes uses to drift across dimensions and time. However, some who come back are no longer human. There is a silent otherworldly invasion and mankind needs a hero. What the world gets instead is John and David. The two are college dropouts who can barely hold down jobs. The movie will be in cinema on the 25th of January, 2013. Other movies out this January Promised Land, starring Matt Damon,John Krasinski, Rosemarie DeWitt, and Scoot McNairy and Zero Dark Thirty, a spy film based on the search and elimination of Osama bin Laden starring Joel Edgerton, Jessica Chastain, Mark Strong, Edgar Ramirez, Jason Clarke, and Chris Pratt.
Recipes If you are searching for a unique Christmas beverage, consider Grandma’s Wassail. The drink is also great for New Year’s dinner. Wassail is a hot mulled cider that is traditionally drunk as an integral part of wassailing. Wassailing is an ancient southern English drinking ritual that is intended to ensure a good cider apple harvest the following year. Historically, Wassail was a mulled cider made with sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg and topped with toast slices. Modern recipes like Grandma’s Wassail begin with a base of mulled ale, wine, or fruit juice, sometimes with sherry or brandy added. Oranges or ap-
Special Features
Christmas Beverage: Grandma’s Wassail ples are often added to the mix. Grandma’s Wassail is an easy recipe that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. This recipe makes 36 servings.
• 2 cups of fresh orange juice •
1 cup of lemon juice
Ingredients:
• 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
• 2 gallons of apple cider
•
1 cup of pineapple juice
•
1 cup of white sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
• Method: In a large pot and over medium-low heat, mix the apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and sugar together. Place the cloves and cinnamon in a tea ball and add ball to the apple cider mixture. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes or until warmed through. Serve from a pot that has a large ladle.
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Special Features
Recipes softened
• 2 cups of half-and-half cream • ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper • 2 pounds of frozen crawfish, cleaned • 1 (10.75 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup • 1 (15.25 ounce) can of whole kernel corn, drained • 2 (10.75 ounce) cans of condensed cream of potato soup Method: Melt the ¼ cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the green onions in butter until tender. Remove from pan and set aside. Most people only make memorable meals for thanksgiving, but making a memorable meal for Christmas is just as important. Consider the Crawfish Chowder this Christmas. The dish is creamy and satisfying. It goes well with crusty French bread or cornbread. This recipe makes 10 servings. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare.
Crawfish Chowder
Using the same skillet, melt the ½ cup of butter and saute the crawfish for 5 minutes. Set aside. In a large pot and over medium heat, combine the mushroom soup, corn, potato soup, and cream cheese. Mix well, and bring to a slow boil. Stir the mixture in half-and-half, sauteed green onions, and crawfish.
Ingredients:
Season with cayenne pepper.
•
Bring to a low boil. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors
¼ cup of butter
• ½ bunch of green onions, chopped •
½ cup of butter
• 4 ounces of cream cheese, Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Recipes As is the case with Christmas, New Years Day, and Easter, you need a good desert to accompany your Christmas dinner or lunch to make the meal memorable. One of the best options this Christmas is the Christmas Cranberry Salad. The cold salad will leave a lasting impression since it is different from the room temperature salads that people are used to.
Special Features
Christmas Cranberry Salad
This recipe makes between 6 and 8 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or lunch. The healthy desert takes just 5 minutes to prepare, making it a good option if you do not have too much time to spare. Ingredients: •
1 lb of cranberries, finely ground
•
2 cups of white sugar
•
1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
•
1 pint of whipped cream, beaten stiff
• 1 (20 ounce) can of crushed pineapple, drained • 1 (16 ounce) package of miniature marshmallows Method: Mix the sugar and cranberries together. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it, preferably overnight. The next day, combine the sugar and cranberry mixture with the marshmallows, pineapple, whipped cream, and pecans. Mix well until there is consistency in the texture. Pour the mixture into a 3 quart dish Cover the mixture and freeze or refrigerate it until ready to serve. Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Special Features
Recipes
New Year's Champagne Punch Welcoming the New Year, as is the case with such important celebrations, calls for champagne. Champaign will impress your guests and is advantageous in that it goes with almost every meal. The New Year's Champagne Punch is a great beverage for your New Years. It has a great color and it tastes delicious. The recipe takes 5 minutes to prepare. This recipe makes 35 (6 ounce) servings, making it a good idea if you are hosting a big party. Ingredients: Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
• bet
1 quart of orange sher-
• 2 quarts of fresh orange juice
Pour the orange juice over the top of the sherbet. Pour the ginger ale over the sherbet.
• 1 (2 liter) bottle of ginger Pour both bottles of chamale, chilled pagne over the sherbet. • 2 (750 milliliter) bottles of champagne, chilled Method: Place the fresh orange juice, the champagne, and the ginger ale in the refrigerator and allow them to chill. Take a large punch bowl and place the block of sherbet in its center.
Stir the mixture gently to mix the liquids until a foamy top is formed. Serve immediately to ensure every glassful has a foamy top.
Recipes
New Year Spinach Fettuccine with Scallops
Do not sacrifice nutrition in your New Years of thanksgiving meal. You can combine nutrition with fanciness with New Year Spinach Fettuccine with Scallops. The meal takes 5 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. The recipe makes 4 servings. Ingredients: • ½ pound of dry fettuccine pasta • 6 tablespoons of olive oil, divided
• Red pepper, black paper, and salt to taste • 1 (10.75 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
Boil a pot of lightly salted water. Add past and cook for between 8 and 10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and reserve.
Using the same skillet, heat 2 more tablespoons of oil. Add 2 more cloves of sliced garlic and saute until they turn golden. Add the mushrooms, white wine, and soup to skillet. Stir over medium heat for 8 minutes or until warm.
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet and add spinach, pepper, and salt to taste.
Pour over spinach and fettuccine and add ground black pepper to taste
•
1 cup of white wine
Method:
Saute the spinach for between • ¾ pound of scallops 5 and 7 minutes or until wilted and no longer watery. Remove • 4 garlic cloves, sliced it from skillet and toss with • 2 (4.5 ounce) cans of pasta. Transfer and keep warm. sliced mushrooms, drained Using the same skillet, heat 2 • 1 (10 ounce) package of frozen chopped spinach
an opaque appearance. Add the scallops and garlic to the fettuccine and spinach mix. Transfer and keep warm.
Serve warm.
tablespoons of oil and add the 2 cloves of sliced garlic and the scallops. Cook the scallops for 1 to 2 minutes or until they get
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Special Features
Recipes
New Years Greek Cake
powder • 1 cup of warm milk (at 45 degrees C)
Vaselopita makes for a great New Years desert. This is a traditional Green New Years Day bread. The recipe takes 1½ hours to prepare (30 minutes for preparation and 1 hour to cook). This recipe serves 10.
• ½ teaspoon of baking soda
Ingredients:
Method:
•
Preheat the oven to 175 degrees C.
1 cup of butter
• 2 cups of white sugar
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
Combine the baking soda and lemon juice and stir them into the batter. Pour this into the prepared cake pan.
• ¼ cup of blanched slivered almonds
Pre-heat the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
• 2 tablespoons of white sugar
Remove and sprinkle the sugar and nuts over the cake. Return it to the oven for between 20 and 30 additional minutes or until cake springs back to the touch.
Grease a 10 inch round cake • 3 cups of all-purpose pan generously Cream the butter and sugar flour together until light in a me• 6 eggs dium bowl. Stir in the flour • 2 teaspoons baking and mix until you have a Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
mealy mixture. Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the milk and baking powder.
Cool the cake on a rack for 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate. Serve warm.
Special Features
Angela Maina One on One with
Miss Africa New York
Names: Angela Wairimu Maina
Title: Miss Africa New York 2011/12 What led me to leave Kenya and how is it in the new residence? I graduated from Pangani Girls’ High School and two weeks later I relocated to New York to be reunited with my family as well as further my studies. I landed in December and it was very cold and snowing. The first 2 weeks I did not want to leave the house because of the cold but as time went by, I got used to the seasons. Moving to New York made me appreciate Kenya more every day. I met people who always wanted to hear about lifestyle in Kenya and the great wildlife. How did you come to be what and who you are today? When I was in Pango, my desire to pursue modeling as a hobby grew but I unfortunately did not have any opportunities. When in NY I learnt about Miss Africa New York and I called the directors to enquire about their upcoming pageant. It was right at that time that they were casting for the year’s pageant and I applied to represent Kenya. What does Miss‌require in terms of getting the title? In order to take part, one had to be a citizen of an African country or have at least one parent from that country, over 18 years of age, enrolled in university, have a platform. Once crowned, one is required to carry out their platform and all it comes with. When working on my platform on Education, I was the only contestant who chose to do hers in her home country. I did that because I felt like I would relate more with the Kenyan Primary and High school
students since I went through the same educational system.
What duties do you have to carry out? You have to represent not only yourself but your country as well as the organization. Community services are also required but one gets to choose which area they are interested in. I worked with children from Bronx, NY involved in dance and music. It was fascinating to see a 4 year old dance to traditional African music better than most adults could.
I definitely applaud all the young people who are working hard to ensure that their culture passes down to the upcoming generation. While in Kenya, I visited Scream Africa Boys children home in Utawala and got to spend the whole day with the young boys alongside the System Unit and some of the Kenyan gospel artists. I visited a couple primary and secondary schools in Nairobi, Murang’a and Kajiado districts and gave motivational talks.
What are some of the challenges you face?
and can you tell us about them?
I did face many challenges during my reign but as always God came through.
Yes, definitely and it really made me realize my values and also made it easier for people to identify with me. After the being crowned the queen, the organization and its sponsors organized a party and a meet and greet in my honor that night at a lounge in NY. Clubbing was not a part of my lifestyle so I was faced with a dilemma. I, however, attended and met many people but I left shortly afterwards. I remember, some people making comments that they had never seen a queen leave early from her party. I knew I was definitely different.
-I was working on my own so I identified some of the events that I was interested in and made the contacts for myself. -I was juggling time because at that time I was a full time student in University. -I made calls to some of the schools in rural Kenya that I wanted to visit and had to explain who I was and how I wanted to carry out my plan to individuals who had never heard of me. The reception I received was amazing and overwhelming and I could not wait to land in Kenya. have there been times when your beliefs/ religion makes you unpopular with the masses. Have you had such experiences Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
-I always received invites with VIP packages just to appear for some events and enticing birthday packages which I however turned down.
What is a day in your life like? The activities of the day dictate my schedule. I wake up, read my devotional book, have breakfast (most important meal for me), check emails and social media for messages as I communicate a lot through such channels. Lots of phone calls and conference calls in order to work, keep current and interact with different individuals with an aim of sharing ideas and knowledge then head to work/attend events/travel to hang out with friends/ chill in the house…lol As Miss Africa New York, I am entitled to my own beliefs and my values dictate who I really am. That is why, I was able to turn down some appearances that I felt didn’t represent me or my country without any remorse despite of how enticing the deals were. What can you tell other young girls who would like to be and do what you do? Trust in God, believe in yourself and follow your dreams. If you don’t believe in yourself and in your dreams, it’s hard for someone to believe in you and in your dreams as well. The passion and commitment to it attracts the right people and brings them onboard. Above all, God is to get all the glory as He’s the one who puts such desires in our hearts and creates ways for us. What next after this is done? I am looking forward to amazing things in the near future- more modeling showcases, working with NGO’s on things that are of interest to me like education and health. I currently co-host Talanta Radio show every Thur 10pm Eastern time from NY which just started airing 2 weeks ago.
Any last words? I thank God for His favor upon my life. It’s always an honor representing my country here in NY. It’s important to keep dreaming big, keep positive people around you and never forget where you’ve come from as it will always give you a reason to step out and face each day and its challenges. Thank you also for this opportunity Just an addendum to the last question....I want to thank my family and friends as well for believing in me and supporting me through this journey. I love you all.
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Whispers from Heaven
Special Features
MY LAST WORDS New Year’s rays can be seen slowly peeking from behind the veil of the 31st December 2012 and boy aren’t I excited. It has been a rather dramatic year. To begin visualizing mid of 2012 by the month of March was quite tough. And now we are drawing down its curtains. Isn’t God good? Oh yes He is; All the time. And that’s His nature. It isn’t just a cliché we recite after the pastor every Sunday morning to hype up the crowd. It’s the truth of the matter. Despite and in spite of the various calamities that may have befallen you and your surrounding; you can attest that since you are still alive, God is good! As we come to the end of this year, count it a privilege that you made it through. Take some time out of your schedule to simply reflect on these three things; Where God has brought you from, where you are at now and where you are going. Where you come from doesn’t determine where or what you will be in the future. You have a choice, to either sit their and wallow in depression because of your origin or stand up, dust yourself and follow your dream to fulfill your destiny in this generation. Where are you now? That is for you to genuinely answer for yourself. When you think you don’t have the answer, of which is understandable, never hesitate to ask God for his help. The psalmist says in the everlasting book, “Search me Oh God and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting”. (Psalm 139:23-24). Get your act together, if you realize you aren’t on track with God and His plan for your life. So where are you headed, now that you have seen where you have come from and where you are at the moment? Right into your destiny! As you fulfill your purpose, leave the future in God’s hands. God says, He knows the plans He has for you. Plans To prosper you and not harm you; to give you a hope and a future. Don’t be too absorbed in what your future will turn out like. Don’t use your past to determine it. Presently make the right and bold choices in your every day life, because it is the choices that you make today that will affect your tomorrow. Worried about what may take place in the days to come? Walk in faith. Faith is the one thing that motivates you to keep on going even when you do not know the result of it all. Then when you finally feel you are on track, Thank God; for life, for family, your job, everything. What is it that you have that is not His anyway? With that you are set for the coming year. Enjoy the blessings wished for you in 2013 and have a Happy New Year Beloved.
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Letter from Miss Boss
Never early, never late
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As this year comes to an end, I still find myself waiting in expectation for the thing God promised me, for that miracle, for that breakthrough. As the days go by, there are times my heart is faint as I think to myself that time is up, it’s December and the year is almost up. What can God do between now and then? Immediately I begin to think about whom God is, the Almighty and sovereign one who is not bound by time, who is not delayed by traffic, who is not caught out in the rain the God who last year got me a job on December 23rd when I thought all hope was gone. God can turn things around for you even on the 31st of December and come January you are in a position your imagination could not create. As we draw nearer and nearer to Christmas day, I look around and see so many people taking advantage of this season. It has become so commercialized, it is not longer a Christian celebration but a time for all men and all businesses to get that last dime in before the year comes to an end. No matter the religion, you can walk into a shop that’s all decked out, with baby Jesus in a manger with the three wise men too, not because they understand the significance but because it will draw customers. Today Christ has been replaced with a big X and Merry Christmas seems to be overtaken by Happy holidays. We cannot forget that this is the season which God gave the greatest gift of all Christ ( yeah I said it) his son to be born and die on the cross for our sins. As I thought about the timing of Christmas some more, it brought me back to the beginning. On the 25th, the very last days of the year, when perhaps so many have lost hope, when so much has happened and left you weary and weak, when there is no more fight left in you, when faith seems so farfetched and when we are longing or dreading the curtains to close on the year, God shows up. Isn’t it just like God to show up right on time? I bet this is where the superheroes in movies got the idea, when the girl has been hanging on till she can’t hang on any longer and let’s go, falling to her death, suddenly he grabs her in mid fall and whisks her to safety. God never comes early, He never comes late, He is always right on time and perhaps 25th December is just that time. When I think about how many lives are lost in the few days between the 24th and the 1st , I also see the saving grace of God. It is not too late in the year to receive the greatest gift of all which is Christ Jesus and it is not too early for the new year, after all who knows if we will see it but God himself? His timing is perfect for salvation, for the gift of all gifts. When we do make it to 2013, we go in with fresh hope, fresh anointing, energized, revitalized and we are able to hit the ground running. God is never late; there is still plenty of time in 2012 for him to do all things concerning you, and for you to receive the most precious gift of all. God is never early, doing it on the 1st may be too late, and just because 2013 is not hear yet does not mean we cannot get and be ready for it. God is always right on time. Do not lose hope, it’s not over till God says it’s over, wait on him in expectation, it’s not too early either the time is just right and the window of heaven is open, make your requests known. Merry Christmas.
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Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
Harusi Magazine Dec/Jan
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