APR-JUN 2015 - ISSUE 9
A Kiddie Mas Affair Where is Kiddies Carnival now? The answers determine where Carnival will be in the next decade and beyond.
Building an Empire It is possible to earn a decent living from the Carnival Arts.
Masquerading Beyond Our Shores
Ensuring that Trinidad and Tobago leads the way in economically viable Creative and Cultural Exchanges between the diaspora and Europe.
Blending Entertainment with Education to Bring a Richer Mas Experience.
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
T R A N S F O R M I N G Editorial Team Mahindra Satram-Maharaj Jean-Paul Pouchet Gisele Williams Kennedy Pemberton Shiva Charles Deanna Dass Adanna Roland Publisher Eidetic Publishing Editing & Design Eidetic Creative Writers Sueann Ramsingh Kennedy Pemberton Carol Quash Roslyn Carrington Sheldon Waithe Vernon Khelawan Production Consultant Kennedy Pemberton Cover Photography Arthur Sukhbir Other Photography John Tilokee Jean-Paul Pouchet Gary Jordan Photography
This information is of a general nature only and is not intended as a substitute for professional information about Carnival and Mas Business. Eidetic Publishing has made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information contained herein is accurate and up to date. To the extent permitted by law, Eidetic Publishing, their employees, agents and advertisers accept no liability (even if negligent) for any injury, loss or damage caused by reliance on any part of this information. Mas Quarterly also contains information supplied by third parties. This information is identified with the name of the source and has been chosen for publication because we believe it to be reliable.
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Mas Quarterly is to be published 4 times a year by Eidetic Publishing, Gaston Court, Gaston Street, Lange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago. Entire contents are copyright. Reproduction in part or whole is prohibited. Eidetic Publishing is in no way affiliated with companies or products covered in Mas Quarterly. Produced and printed in Trinidad and Tobago.
M A S
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
WHAT’s INSIDE
Chairman’s Message CarnivalGateway.com - Now Open For Business Showtime Carnival A Kiddie Mas Affair CREATiVITY At Its Best Building An Empire... Making A Career Out Of Mas Masquerading Beyond Our Shores Real Vibes With The Mas Transformation Secretariat Stilt Walking In San Fernando Fame Design Studio Smoking And Exercise
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Chairman’s Message Mahindra Satram-Maharaj
Chairman/CEO - Mas Transformation Secretariat
It’s that time again, and the Mas Transformation Secretariat is
Moreover, with so much creativity to share the Rousillac Mas
honoured to release another fantastic Issue of Mas Quarterly
Company has stepped forward as a shining example of how to focus
Magazine. For some of us the last three (3) months have been
multiple spinoff elements of Mas, into a financially viable artistic
quiet with time for rest and reflection, while for others, the cogs
empire. But don’t take our word for it! Hear it from the mouth of
in the wheel of preparing for Mas 2K16 having been moving into
master craftsman Reish Baboolal, who explains how he diversified
position. Believe it or not, Band Launch Season is about to
and differentiated himself as an enviable Mas Practitioner.
begin! Speaking of Band Launch Season, do you know that the National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF) recently
As we mention the word enviable, it would be remiss of us not to
launched its online marketplace, www.carnivalgateway.com, for
share that the Secretariat recently hosted its first European Inbound
the buying and selling of ALL things Mas & Carnival? Be sure to
Mas Trade and Tourism Mission, with successes to brag about. In fact,
bookmark our Hub, as the 2016 Band Launch Season will be the
this Mission was a follow up to the Outbound Mission of 2014, and
first season that allows you to purchase your Trinidad and
the achievements this time around prove that we have gotten even
Tobago Carnival Costumes ONLINE from Bands like Showtime
better at positioning our Mas across continental Europe. Yes, we are a
Carnival, Island People Mas, Legacy Carnival, Passion and much
small organisation with big impact!
more. As always, Mas Quarterly has a little something for everyone, and if The publication of Mas Quarterly Issue 9 also means that ‘It’s
you fancy traditional characters then allow us to take you on a
Showtime’, and our cover feature this time around makes it clear that
journey to the region of San Fernando. However, don’t be surprised if
“Showtime Carnival” will go on! So have a peak at page 12 for a
while in ‘Sando’ (as it is affectionately called) you come across
special interview with Godfrey Enile, and learn more about his brand
persons towering 10 – 15 feet tall practicing their “Moko Jumbie”
of Mas which is premised on the concept of Edutainment. Never
dance. Junior Bisnath will tell you all about it.
heard the word? Well, we can assure you that you won’t be disappointed.
Our Mas is unique and while many have tried none can replicate its spirit. We are inclusive in our artistic expressions and opportunity is
While some adults are convinced that Mas is their time to shine,
ever-present both for veteran and youthful practitioners. It is
others argue that Kiddie Mas is the real gem of our Carnival. Mas
therefore with pride that we introduce you to Aaron Belmontes and
Quarterly sat down with three (3) very different organisations
Brandon Phillip of “Fame Design Studios”. Just in case you missed it,
involved in producing Kiddie Mas, and we are pleased to share their
these young professionals are already winning contracts overseas,
views on how to fortify this creative outlet for both national and
and bigger plans are already taking shape.
personal development. Look out, because these organisations don’t just talk a good game, but they are actually living their beliefs.
Special thanks to the Mas Quarterly Magazine advertisers, especially
Issue 9 is simply oozing with creativity, and can you think of any
our Corporate Partner TRINRE. We also celebrate the support of
better way of globally showcasing ‘Trinbago’ talent, than by
Massy Motors, CREATiVE TT, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards
packaging our Music, Film, and Fashion industries into well-defined
(TTBS), Republic Bank, Caribbean Vascular and Vein Clinic, Tourism
and supportive mechanisms for the advancement of our Mas? Look
Development Company (TDC), and the Ministry of National Diversity
no further, as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ria Karim from the
& Social Integration.
recently formed state institution of “CREATiVE TT” tells us about her vision for ‘Creating the Future.’
Ladies and Gentlemen... It’s Showtime!
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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Trinidad and Tobago Launches the Gateway to Carnival The Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industry (TTCSI) and the National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF), are pleased to announce the launch of their fully-featured website www.carnivalgateway.com. The website has been designed to provide the ultimate user-friendly experience for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their Masquerade products and services globally through one centralised location. The Carnival Gateway Hub is a product of the Inter-American Development Bank Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) and is being delivered under the banner of “ICT Innovation for the Development of the Masquerade Sector in Trinidad and Tobago”. The Carnival Gateway is dedicated to strengthening and promoting the economic growth of ALL MSMEs beyond ‘Carnival the 2-day Event’ into ‘Mas the Sustainable Industry’ that thrives throughout the year. This project ensured the implementation of a web-based platform to enhance Mas
By Sueann Ramsingh
Practitioner business models, while simultaneously boosting their market competitiveness and fueling the proliferation of Trinidad and Tobago’s ‘Brand of Mas’ to a global consumer population. This Gateway will function as a platform to provide substantial support services that improve the productivity and efficiency levels of MSMEs, and is envisaged to become the premier one-stop virtual Carnival Marketplace. The Carnival Gateway Hub will give generous boosters to business profitability and efficiency levels by marketing Mas products and services to an extended audience at a minimal cost to suppliers. Join the Carnival Gateway Hub to enhance your business effectiveness by getting directly connected to Veteran / Potential Masqueraders, Carnival Lovers, Business Financiers, and Thrill Seeking Visitors, who may not even know you exist. Thus, with the click of a mouse customers from all walks of life can now purchase your Mas products and services instantly!
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GET IT ALL IN ONE PLACE The Gateway currently features 11 top Bands and is already preparing to add new suppliers to fuel a virtual craze. Our current suppliers include: • Island People Mas • Showtime Trinidad • Ramajay Section (YUMA) • Generation Lion Jouvay Band • Guy James Studios • Boots by Afro Chic • Boissiere Village Children's Band • Victoria Creative Mas Company • Royal Concepts Ltd (Passion) • Legacy Carnival • Dragon Renaissance The Gateway creates a one-stop Carnival Hub for the aforementioned bands with even more to come. Through the Hub we even expect to see a more prominent level of cohesiveness and association among the competitive on-screen characters in the sector, as they realise the potential benefits to be derived from working together. SPEED AND RELIABILITY The Carnival Gateway will load quickly and easily as we have made sure to use the latest programming codes to make it highly accessible. We have utilized some of the most recent innovations to allow us to provide our users with as much speed as we possibly can, while at the same time guaranteeing that the Hub is friendly to the masses. Our structural planning permits the Hub to be highly customisable and gives even the smallest enterprise the ability to leverage technological productivity tools they could not afford on their own.
HIGHLY RESPONSIVE ACROSS ALL DEVICES Today, more individuals are browsing the Internet on their tablets and smartphones than they are on actual desktop computers. Instead of outlining one size for every device, users will find that our Carnival Gateway Hub is responsive on all devices and will scale up on mobiles and tablets as well. EVOLUTION OF FUNCTIONALITY The functionality of Carnival Gateway Hub epitomises Trinidad and Tobago as a ‘creative mecca’ complete with prime tourism potential for the cultivation of mass celebrations and heritage. Hub features include E-stores to facilitate credit card purchases, a Skills & Materials Marketplace, Discussion Forums, Historical Information about Trinidad and Tobago, Historical Facts about Carnival, Events and Tickets, Mobile Adaptability and even Podcasting for the music lovers among us. ECOMMERCE / MATERIALS & SKILLS MARKETPLACE Pay day still far away and your favourite Band is launching tonight? Ever wished you didn’t need to have cash to grab the costume you really like before it’s all sold out? Well commencing this Band Launch Season www.carnivalgateway.com can help. So get ready to reach into your wallet, grab your credit card, pull up a chair and log on, to purchase all the Carnival gear you need for 2K16. Don’t worry, we didn’t forget those of you who may need help finding Carnival Services as this is also coming to the Hub in our Skills and Materials Marketplace. Can you say... “Best Band Launch Season EVER!”
So there you have it. Things are shaping up and the Carnival Gateway is already LIVE. Whether you are a buyer or seller www.carnivalgateway.com is a place for you to frequent for ALL things Mas & Carnival. Ultimately, let’s keep an eye on the end ‘end game’! By going online, suddenly each MSME on the Carnival Gateway expands its reach to both a national and international base of customers. Thus, this innovative one-stop center will also serve the national interest of advancing economic diversification in Trinidad and Tobago. We are open for Business… Join us at www.carnivalgateway.com and let the experience begin!
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DRIVING PROFITABILITY The Carnival Gateway website will serve as a medium to give generous business boosters that enhance profitability and efficiency levels through online features that will, for instance, market Mas products and services, to a wider audience. Enhance your business effectiveness by getting directly connected to Veteran and Potential Masqueraders, Carnival Lovers, Business Financiers, and Thrill Seeking Visitors, who simply may not know you exist. With the click of a mouse they can purchase your Mas products and services instantly!
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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By Roslyn Carrington
Blending Entertainment with Education to Bring a Richer Mas Experience
competition in every aspect of the Carnival.” Enile is the owner and bandleader of Showtime Trinidad, which produces Mas-related services, most notably, a popular Carnival band. His history in the Mas industry dates back over twenty years, when Trini Revellers emerged from the Portuguese club in
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It’s not about me: it’s about a team of young business enthusiasts who are connected to Carnival, locally and abroad.
”
Port of Spain. “I worked with a partner, another designer
In 2005, he began producing a premium section called
named Keith Mc Clean, under a company called the Mas
Showtime in Legacy. “Big Mike asked me to do a section with
Factory, of which I was Chairman. We produced Mas
them. I spoke to my son and nephew, and they jumped at the
worldwide, even as far as Australia. We had teams going into
opportunity. That’s how the name came about.” Five years
different countries. At one time we had three teams in
later, Enile decided to strike out on his own. “Our first
Barbados, producing sections for three different bands.”
presentation was called Matrix.”
He sees no conflict of interest in working with different bands
Enile emphasises the concept of teamwork, seeing himself
that are all participating in the same competition. “The
not as an entity but as a cog in a much larger system,
bandleaders have no problem with this, and we are simply
comprising friends and family members. “We work together to
designing and producing.”
keep Showtime going. We’re very close knit. It’s not about me: it’s about a team of young business enthusiasts who are connected to Carnival, locally and abroad.”
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“We are a competition band,” says Godfrey Enile. “We see
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Enile and his team are still heavily involved in offering their skills and expertise to other countries in the Carnival Diaspora. Furthermore, his own company, 2PG Limited, produces swimsuits for Carnival bands in Trinidad and Tobago and throughout the world. “I do swimsuits, shorts and so on, for Tribe, Island People, Fantasy, Trini Revellers, Legacy, Ivan Kalicharan, and a number of others, including Showtime,
“
We don’t just want to offer enjoyment, we want to provide education about our culture and the environment.
”
obviously. We have produced swimsuits for bands from Port of Spain to San Fernando.” For Enile, the Mas industry makes a
“We don’t just want to offer enjoyment, we want to provide
valuable contribution to the economy, and employment in
education about our culture and the environment. Each year,
Trinidad and Tobago.
we choose a theme to teach people about life itself. We want to inform others about the relationship between Man and the
Showtime takes competition very seriously, and makes sure to
planet. In The Matrix, we offered reasons why Man should
be present at all venues. “We compete in the Large Band
continue fighting to survive on Earth. Man must endure. In
category, and have placed anywhere from first to sixth. We
Species, we tried to teach people about the importance of
attend all competitions: Downtown, Uptown, and, of course,
taking care of the different species on Earth, and how
the national competition at the Savannah.” He sees his most
dependent we are on them for our own survival.”
successful year as his first, when the band presented The Matrix. Although initially intending to enter the Medium
He sees a band as a group of people on a mission, to change
category, their large numbers forced them to move upwards,
the environment, and to keep our cultural flag flying high.
into the Large Band category, where they still held their own.
Even off-season, members band together to contribute, such as their recent participation in a Nature Seekers beach
“With the name The Matrix, everyone was expecting all black,
clean-up.
but we came out in full colour, and placed fourth. That made a statement.”
His support of local culture and Mas history includes tributes to calypso greats like Kitchener, and odes to the pan industry.
Their thirst for competition extends to the King and Queen
“People need to know where the calypsonians came from. We
categories: they often submit not just one, but two entries into
need to look into our history.”
each, as well as individuals. The greatest challenge they face as a band is the resistance But Enile and his group also have a strong social conscience,
being experienced as the Mas industry evolves. “We don’t
with a purpose that extends beyond having fun and playing
believe that the elders are willing to accept change. But we
their Mas. He believes that the band should have an
need to embrace these changes, so that Trinidad and Tobago
educational purpose as well, an element he calls
Carnival can move forward, in the direction it has chosen. This
‘Edutainment’.
is the direction the people want it to take.”
“
We don’t believe that the elders are willing to accept change. But we need to embrace these changes, so that Trinidad and Tobago Carnival can move forward, in the direction it has chosen. This is the direction the people want it to take.
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
This is not to say that Enile rejects the values of Traditional
In response to this dilemma, he would like to see a coming
Carnival; far from it. “Traditional Mas has its place in
together of the different bands to lobby for more change, so
Carnival!” he says emphatically. “It’s where this thing started.
that those in control of the festival can shift their focus.
We need to hold on to Traditional Carnival, and ensure it
“They need to realise that it is not about the individuals,
stays alive.”
it’s about the festival itself; it’s about our country, and our culture. We need, first and foremost, to keep the festival
His fondness for the legacy that is Traditional Mas is perhaps
alive for our culture.”
born of his own personal history, being raised in a family who loved the traditions. His parents first put him on a stage at the age of three. “I played a Witch Doctor. My parents told me I didn’t want to play. But when I put on the costume, I didn’t want to take it off, even after I left the stage. They had to wait until I fell asleep to take it off me.”
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Traditional Mas has its place in Carnival! It’s where this thing started. We need to hold on to Traditional Carnival, and ensure it stays alive.
”
Given the contribution the Mas industry makes to national development and culture, Enile would like to see some of that returned to the bands, in the form of greater assistance by the organisers. “Sometimes you spend hundreds of thousands of dollars, but if you don’t place in the competitions, you don’t get back that money. I believe we should get some kind of assistance.”
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Godfrey Enile can be contacted at: Showtime Trinidad Mas Band 51 French Street, Woodbrook, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 621 0001 Email: info@showtimecarnival.com
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
AKiddie
MASAFFAIR By Sheldon Waithe
“The children are the future.” A statement banded about often, though the frequency of its announcement does not alter the fact that it is powerful, as it is logical. Their tiny minds carry the prospects of all aspects of our society and for one with the unique cultural explosion of Mas at its core, it is imperative that we ask where is Kiddies Carnival now? The answers determine where Carnival will be in the next decade and beyond, as the current crop of young masqueraders mature into the stakeholders of our national festival. Though Kiddies Mas has evolved over the past 15 years several competitions now taking place across the nation in addition to the granddaddy Red Cross Carnival - the infrastructure that puts those revelling children onto the street has remained relatively unchanged. There is still heavy reliance on parents, teachers and volunteers to make the band happen. There are still concerns over start-up costs and there is little profit to be made. Perhaps the romantic view is that the love that is put into the production of a Kiddies Carnival band is what shines through.
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Terrence La Caille is the bandleader of La ta Caille Kidz, a band in its second year on the streets. He states “since I was small I wanted to bring out a band. We had 18 kids this year but it is growing. Aside from the band as a whole, there is a lot of interest in the individual costumes.” Expansion of Kiddies Carnival, as evidenced by increased number of kids and competitions, is a factor echoed by fellow band leader Danan Singh of Suzie Associates Kiddies Band. “In my 8 years in Carnival, I have generally had more each time, sometimes
there is a drop because of SEA Exams but we average about 100 kids.” Trevene Layne of the Vance River RC School, draws her participants from the school itself, swelling the band to 150 children. She says, “I have been in Kiddies Carnival for about 20 years but it’s when I came to this school that I went up a level, to this size band.” All three bandleaders have the benefit of a unique perspective.
At the production stage, much more needs to be done; not specifically with the finances because one gets the feeling that for the love of the children these bands WILL make it to the stage each year. With no profit from the previous year and materials to be paid for up front, private bands require funds from parents, while school bands such as Layne’s, need to be inventive. “This year every child had to have something ‘found’ in their costume. So we had palms, rods, rims etc making up the costumes.” Layne also identifies the need for the kids to be involved in all steps of costume making “I have my kids create a theme, do the research, then design, as well as do a presentation in the school yard.” In contrast, La Caille bases his model on the modern adult band launch template, stating that “I make a prototype then have a small launch with proper photos taken. Parents can then choose which costumes they want for their kids. I also connect through my facebook page (La ta Caille Kidz).” According to Danan Singh, Suzie Associates Kiddies Band relies on return customers and limits advertising to signs on lampposts. There is universal agreement that given the plethora of artists, designers and experienced Mas businessmen in Trinidad and Tobago, skills should be taught to both the youngsters and
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Terrence La Caille can be contacted at: La ta Caille Kidz 22 Sparrow Drive, Phase 3, Bon Air Gardens, Arouca, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 287 1186 / 482 9863 Email: latacaillekidz@gmail.com
The bandleaders are trying to instil the notion that Mas is not just the popular “beads and bra” - to quote La Caille - hence
Danan Singh can be contacted at: Suzie Associates Kiddies Band Denah Street, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 344 9374 Email: suzie.associates@yahoo.com
the willingness to have kids as part of the production line. However, they also seek to infuse proper conduct amongst their impressionable youth. As such, wining to the ground and other adult-type behaviour is ‘nipped in the bud’. “They are told how to perform” La Caille says, as Layne reiterates in teacher mode “We police and monitor them. They are told beforehand about public display.” Kiddies Carnival is stagnant according to La Caille, it requires a few “big names” to exist and to take it to the next level. This is in keeping with his ethos of running Caille Kidz like an adult band. Layne and Singh think that their Mas niche is growing but needs an infusion of big business thinking to do more than simply expand. After all, as all three attest, investing our time and effort into Kiddies Carnival now is protecting our future Mas. That the right questions are now being asked, provides some confidence and guidelines to steer the Mas men and women of tomorrow.
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their bandleaders. “We need help with learning how to design costumes, as well as how to make them. We have to pass on the skills to a younger generation that only knows how to put on the costume but not what’s behind all of it. This will improve the look of the costumes because right now we do it by trial and error. Having the children learn to create will allow them to say ‘I helped make that band’; Carnival classes in the off season would be a good start.” says Layne. This leads onto the point of marketing an improved product. La Caille bluntly says “More promotion has to be done, for all the competitions; people are not aware of when and where it’s happening.” Singh asserts that while the spin-off competitions can improve, some such as the St. James kiddies event are actually on par with Red Cross, “and it has better prize money.” Singh also mentions St. Augustine’s Carnival Sunday celebration as a very good event that he takes his band to, despite the lengthy hours of Red Cross the day before. This is slightly at odds with Layne’s assessment that Point Fortin’s Mas needs major development, as the focus and attraction remains Port of Spain’s Carnival.
Trevene Layne can be contacted at: Vance River RC School Vance River Village, La Brea, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 648 7586 Email: vanceriverrc@yahoo.com
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
AT ITS BEST
By Sheldon Waithe
“Trinidad & Tobago Creative Industries Company Ltd” is as
CEO Ria Karim outlines their objectives: “The mandate of
professional as a name can get, but it does not necessarily
CREATiVE TT is to stimulate and facilitate the business
inspire a sense of innovation that will encapsulate the
development and export activities of three very important
existing and untapped resources within our twin island
sectors in the creative industries - fashion, music and film.” In
nation. However, its brand name “CREATiVE TT” with the
the past decade, with technology making the world much
clean lines of its logo and the ubiquitous 21st century
smaller, each of these industries has made great strides locally
common ‘i’ in the name, perfectly captures the umbrella
through their own sector growth, evolution and exposure.
type entity that, though a relatively young agency, has bold
Indeed, the ethos of CREATiVE TT is to set the template as an
aspirations for Trinidad and Tobago’s creative industries.
umbrella company and allow the overall organisational culture
“Music”, “Film” & “Fashion” almost shout off the page,
to guide the development of each sector. Karim continues, “the
separated by a small bar signifying their respective
mandates trickle down from the overarching parent’s “raison
individuality while recognising that they are forever
d’etre”, into each sector-focused company, so that for example,
intertwined. It is with this recognition in mind that the State
(MusicTT) looks at development and export of music, as do
agency CREATiVE TT was formed less than two years ago.
FashionTT and FilmTT for fashion and film respectively.” The business model takes the acknowledged benefits of specialisation and marries it to the agency’s directive. “Each company is led by a General Manager who, with the guidance of their Boards, is tasked with identifying and implementing unique ways of addressing the specific needs of their sector. There would be some areas of overlap where we would synchronize our strategy, however the value chain of each sector is separate and distinct from one another with each having its own peculiarities and idiosyncrasies.”
“
The mandate of CREATiVE TT is to stimulate and facilitate the business development and export activities of three very important sectors in the creative industries - fashion, music and film.
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
It is with the appreciation of these industry specifics that CREATiVE TT aims to charter a course for the Creative Industries into the global competitive market. Specialisation will turn out the best product but those same impacting dynamics have made Karim and her team acutely aware of the need to have each of the subsidiaries chart the path that best suits their industry. Despite the impressive attention to detail, we must remind ourselves that the agency is relatively new, and while the youthful outlook is good, especially for these industries, it does mean that in some ways CREATiVE TT is still building out its existing research base to perfect the strategy. The agency would have had to conduct an audit to ascertain where the industries are currently, identifying their weaknesses and their strengths, before setting targets. “We must allocate and utilise resources in the most effective way, to achieve sustainability in each of the sectors, and to maximize our export potential.” Within CREATiVE TT’s domain, as the parent company, Karim reiterates that, “it is about creating an enabling environment in which businesses and practitioners in these sectors can grow and sustain viable businesses. This requires, for example, looking at things from a policy development level; ensuring that any negotiations that
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Carnival costumes have a design element that excites the fashion sector. Music is the driving force and pulse behind Carnival, there’s no Carnival without music; and more and more film is playing an important role...
”
may be ongoing, be it at the level of investment or trade agreements, include the creative industries as a matter of priority. It is critical that we partner with the different state
which may have hindered development in the past; certainly
agencies which impact upon the Creative Industries to really
training and capacity development are critical to ensuring that
stimulate each of these sectors.”
we have a workforce that can drive the long-term expansion of these areas, well into the future.”
CREATiVE TT also plans to lead the way in addressing some of the bottlenecks that restrict both development and export of
Mas is a major hub that will create the overlap of the three
these goods and services, by tackling said issues identified
sectors, which CREATiVE TT intends to explore. “Carnival
from the research conducted. The Fashion Company, FashionTT,
costumes have a design element that excites the fashion
has recently had its strategic plan completed while FilmTT and
sector. Music is the driving force and pulse behind Carnival,
MusicTT following closely behind. These plans will allow the
there’s no Carnival without music; and more and more film is
sectors to grow beyond the current limited consumption. For a
playing an important role – be it in the form of music videos,
business society where these targeted sectors are so
documentaries, carnival-based themes in films and otherwise.
dominated by Carnival and the driving economic factors that it
There is a natural progression in that direction (towards
brings, the idea of an entity such as CREATiVE TT is welcome
Carnival) and of course, we should exploit the opportunities
news. Think of the lull after Carnival, or consider the outcome if
that come with this internationally recognised manifestation of
these industries could harness the creativity that goes into
our culture and creative expression. It’s the same way the
Carnival and use it across all spectrums and genres? It may be
literary works cannot be treated as entirely separate from film;
that creativity-wise we are like the human brain - only using a
there are logical backward and forward linkages.”
the brainpower behind the industry geniuses and get Trinidad
As CREATiVE TT interacts with the stakeholders and formulates
and Tobago into new areas while improving the existing ones.
strategies for Trinidad and Tobago’s major artistic genres these
As Karim explains, “we must partner with stakeholders – both
are exciting times for the country’s industries to have a
public and private – to understand and address existing gaps
dedicated company to help them maximise their potential.
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small percentage of what’s available. CREATiVE TT aims to put
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
By Vernon Khelawan
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Making a Career Out of Mas Every year our Carnival celebrations give rise to
designation, expansion and strengthening of our Mas as a
controversies and arguments of many kinds, but in spite of
‘Sustainable Industry’ rather than a mere ‘two-day event’. In
this Carnival contributes millions of dollars to Trinidad and
fact, a key recommendation of the NCDF Strategic Plan
Tobago’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is therefore
prepared by Dr. Keith Nurse, was the creation of a special
incumbent on our Carnival stakeholders to ensure the
implementation agency mandated to seek the interests of
sustainable expansion of our Masquerade (Mas) as the heart
ALL Mas Practitioners throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Thus,
and soul of our Carnival.
the Mas Transformation Secretariat was formed. Through special initiatives like Mas Quarterly Magazine, Mas Trade
When we look at the growing popularity of Carnivals
and Tourism Missions, Training Workshops, and the Carnival
worldwide, it is evident that the Mas Industry can be a major
Gateway E-commerce Portal, the Secretariat promotes and
revenue generator for this country, and this reality already
fosters the art of Mas-making for the enjoyment of locals
prevails for some who are involved in the Carnival Arts. A
and thrill seeking foreigners alike.
quick glance at the international calendar shows that our creative expertise continues to be exported to cities across
Contrastingly, Mr. Reish Baboolal, a resident of the Rousillac
the globe including metropolitans like Miami, New York,
community, is a single Mas Practitioner who teaches visual
Toronto, London, Rotterdam and Tokyo, to name a few. All of
arts at the Vessigny Secondary School, in the south Trinidad
these cities benefit from the transfer of skills such as design
community of La Brea. Among the subjects he teaches is
conceptualization and sketching, costume creation,
‘wire-bending’, with the intent of creating future
wire-bending and customer comfort facilities which have
generations of artisans and costume designers that ensure
found a home in Trinidad and Tobago Mas. The annual
the survival of Trinidad and Tobago’s Mas. In 2012, he was
export of our Music, Costumes and Manpower to these
selected by the British Council to represent his school and
foreign Carnivals has created “transnational economic
country in Gowerton, Wales, as part of a twinning project
flows” that expanded our local Mas into an exportable
between Vessigny Secondary and the Gowerton
global product, and a catalyst for economic diversification,
Comprehensive Secondary School. From Wales he travelled
via the creative arts.
to London, England, in April 2012, where he conducted workshops with the students in wire-bending and
At an organizational level since 2009 the National Carnival
costume-construction.
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Development Foundation (NCDF) has been lobbying for the
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
In addition to his teaching successes, he also portrays
have to get the kids to start imagining again. If Carnival is
traditional Mas; is a maker of Tadjahs for the Islamic festival
going to be sustainable, there has to be that passing on of
of ‘Hosay’; and this year he designed, built and portrayed
skills, from artists to teachers, to the community at large, so
his own King of Carnival costume - an environmental
those skills can be maintained and the level of standards
conservation piece entitled, "Manglier-Guardian of the
can be constantly enhanced.”
Wetlands.” As you will quickly realize, Babool is teeming with Baboolal has been designing and constructing Mas
suggestions on how to enhance our Mas and Carnival
costumes independently since 1994, and is considered the
Industry. According to him, “Carnival must be seen as a
youngest Master Artisan for his wire-bending skills. He is an
brand of Trinidad and Tobago, to be made into a highly
advocate for the preservation and perpetuation of
successful industry that focuses on our people's talent so as
traditional, cultural art forms and actively portrays
to strengthen our musical, design and creative capacity, but
traditional Mas characters, such as Con Boeuf (Cow Mas) and
it requires the resources of the Government as a primary
Bat. His costumes have been used on the national, regional
stakeholder. In this way we will create more sustainable
and international stages, including at the 2006 World Cup
jobs for our designers, composers, seamstresses,
in Germany, CARIFESTA in Guyana, and his designs and
wire-benders, promoters, public relations, marketing and
costumes have featured at the Lincoln Centre in New York,
management personnel.”
U.S.A. He has also designed and constructed the tallest model Tadjah (33 feet +) ever built in the 21st century,
He also believes that the Ministry of Arts and
which was unveiled in private viewing for His Excellency,
Multiculturalism must immediately review its perception of
President George Maxwell Richards, in November 2012.
Carnival and begin to treat it as an Industry which can spawn, on a continued basis, several sustainable
Moreover, he has been inducted as the youngest and first
downstream industries and disciplines, including the
member of the Guild of Master Artisans of Trinidad and
harnessing and export of our expertise to other countries. In
Tobago for his expertise in history and construction of
his opinion, “Dozens of traditional skills have disappeared
Hosay Tadjahs and wire-bending skills and was honoured by
in the last 20 years or so. “This means that the remaining
the Ministry of Planning and Development for his contribution to culture in Trinidad and Tobago for the 50th Anniversary of Independence. “It is possible to earn a decent living from the Carnival Arts,” Baboolal stated, “but we have to first educate the younger generation about the history of our Carnival culture for them to gain an appreciation of the value of the art. We
Reish Baboolal can be contacted at: 249 Grants Road, Rousillac, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 361 1230 Email: reishbaboolal@yahoo.com
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
skills reside in one or two elders’ heads. These skills range
bikinis.” However, he empathically argues, “There must be a
from dirt-oven making and baking, to major technical skills
compromise between the skimpy costumes and their very
like Carnival King and Queen costume-making. To move
artistically influenced counterparts.”
forward, we must first re-think and re-appreciate what we have accomplished in the past.” His words clearly
Undoubtedly, Reish Baboolal possesses great skill and
demonstrate empathy for our Mas, as he adds “If we intend
dedication and Trinidad and Tobago is fortunate that he
to remain at the pinnacle, then we cannot remain stagnant in
chooses to pass on these skills and knowledge to our young
our ways of thinking. At the same time, we must be careful
creative minds. As he says, if this is not done, many
not to compromise our culture for commercialisation.”
elements of traditional Mas may disappear forever, and that would simply be a travesty.
Similarly, he postulates, “Too many of our designers have
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forsaken the real Mas for the more popular beads and
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Masquerading
By Kennedy Pemberton
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Positioning ‘Trinbago’ Mas Across Continental Europe
If you missed Issue 6, then you may not be fully aware of the
Market. Again, we strove to further test the benefits to be
biggest leap made in our local Masquerade (Mas) Sector, since
derived from the EPA, and in partnership with the Federation
the signing of the first EU – CARIFORUM Economic Partnership
of European Carnival Cities (FECC) and the National Carnival
Agreement (EPA), which specifically references Creative and
Development Foundation (NCDF) the 2015 European Mas
Cultural Industries. It is a loosely guarded secret that Trinidad
Trade and Tourism Mission to Trinidad and Tobago began to
and Tobago is a hub of creativity within CARIFORUM, and by all
take shape.
accounts our Mas represents the pinnacle and crown jewel of ‘Trinbago’ imagination and ingenuity. But what does all of this
It is therefore with great pleasure that the Secretariat, the
mean? Or better yet, who really cares if somewhere out there,
NCDF, and the FECC, declare that the Inbound European Mas
a number of Governments got together and decided to sign
Trade and Tourism Mission successfully concluded on May 31
some obscure document that may or may not impact our lives?
2015, securing multiple business opportunities for Trinidad & Tobago Mas Practitioners. In total, 43 local Mas Practitioners
Well, let’s take a closer look at how the Mas Transformation
met with a delegation of 15 Senior European Carnival Officials
Secretariat has decided to put the EPA to the test, in order to
from 13 European Nations, and inked 15 agreements for the
ensure that Trinidad and Tobago leads the way in economically
provision of Mas products and services to enhance European
viable Creative and Cultural Exchanges between the diaspora
Carnivals & Festivals in the coming months. Similarly, another
and Europe. In 2014, the Secretariat hosted its first and historic
61 agreements are in varying stages of completion, including a
Mas Trade and Tourism Mission to Europe, visiting Paris, France
major Inbound Scandinavian Tour for Carnival 2016, to be
and Rotterdam, The Netherlands from July 13 – 21, and that
offered in conjunction with SAS Airlines, Norwegian Air and
created quite a stir in the local Mas Fraternity. Last year, six (6)
Caribbean Airlines. This Inbound Mas Trade and Tourism
Mas Practitioners, namely Island People Mas, Legacy Carnival,
Mission is another tremendous success for the mandate of the
Showtime Mas, Imagine Company, Ramajay Mas (YUMA) and
Mas Transformation Secretariat, and boasts victories more than
Tribe Carnival, got the opportunity to present Trinbago Mas to
five (5) times greater than those experienced during our
European Festival Organisers and impressively won work
historic Mas Trade and Tourism Mission to Europe 2014, in
agreements as a result. To date, those Mas Practitioners have
Paris and Rotterdam.
successfully inked six (6) work agreements, with another five (5) agreements pending across varying stages of completion, and for those successes we are proud. This time around, with an avid appetite for expanding on last year’s triumphs, the decision was made to host a team of Senior European Carnival Officials in Trinidad and Tobago, so opportunity to introduce their businesses to the European
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that a wider cross-section of local Mas Practitioners gained the
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
During May 27 – 29 visiting European Carnival officials
of Port of Spain, including a tour of world renowned artist Mr.
engaged in well over 400 Business to Business meetings with
LeRoy Clarke’s private art collection, and a visit to Maracas
local Mas Practitioners including but not limited to; Large,
Beach for a refreshing swim and dining on Bake and Shark.
Medium, and Small Mas Bands, Designers, Event Planners, Road Managers, Costume Producers, Kiddie Bands, J’ouvert
NCDF Chairman Mahindra Satram-Maharaj is extremely
Bands, Steel Bands and Traditional Character Groups. The
pleased that the hard work and months of planning have
European countries represented included Portugal, The
borne fruit. According to Mr. Satram-Maharaj, “this is another
Netherlands, Bulgaria, Sweden, Finland, Malta, Slovenia,
critical step towards creating the paradigm shift where the Mas
Croatia, Italy, Serbia, Germany, Macedonia and Denmark. The
Industry is leveraged to create sustainable livelihoods.”
visiting representatives openly expressed keen interest in
Notably, both the visiting delegation and local Mas
costume purchases, acquiring skilled labour and management
Practitioners have expressed gratitude for their inclusion, and
expertise, training workshops for their Carnival Bands, and
satisfaction with the quality of Business to Business Meetings
arranging Carnival/Cultural exchanges. Unfortunately, we were
and resulting opportunities for collaboration.
unable to facilitate an additional 27 requests for inclusion in the Business to Business Meetings, as the two and half days
The Mas Transformation Secretariat and the NCDF wish to
allotted for these meetings were highly oversubscribed.
publicly thank the Ministry of Tourism, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Ministry of National Security, the
The Mission saw an exciting programme of activities with
FECC, the visiting European Delegation and local Mas
visiting delegates participating in the grand unveiling of
Practitioners for their commitment to making this initiative a
Trinidad and Tobago’s Global Online Portal for buying and
smashing success. We especially hail Mr. Lars Algell – Head of
selling all things Mas www.carnivalgateway.com; the launch
Delegation and Secretary General of the FECC International
of the Mas Gone Green Carnival Costume Exhibition; and the
Board for his outstanding support and efficiency in
official Welcome Ceremony for the European Mas Trade and
coordinating the team from Europe.
Tourism Mission to Trinidad and Tobago. Mr. Lars Algell – Head of Delegation, and Secretary General of the FECC, formally
For the second consecutive time in history the Secretariat
addressed the Ceremony and presented special awards to:
facilitated a Mas Trade and Tourism Mission which emphasises
Senator the Honourable Gerald Hadeed – Minister of Tourism,
that Europe is open for business in the Creative and Cultural
Dr. the Honourable Lincoln Douglas – Minister of Arts and
Industries. The case is clear, Trinidad & Tobago’s Masquerade
Multiculturalism, Ms. Vashtie Dookiesingh - Multilateral
Product is a highly sought after trade export with tremendous
Investment Fund Senior Specialist - Inter-American
inbound tourism capacity, and immense potential to generate
Development Bank (IDB), and Mr. Mahindra Satram-Maharaj –
sustainable livelihoods for artisans throughout the nation. The
NCDF Chairman, for their sterling contributions to
Secretariat in conjunction with its partners express profound
championing the cause of building Mas into a sustainable
thanks to all the Mas Practitioners that served as champions of
industry for the benefit of ALL Mas Practitioners.
the cause by promoting Trinidad & Tobago Mas to continental Europe.
The Mission also included social events at Invaders Pan yard, Trincity Shopping Mall, a reception hosted by Dr. the
Look out for us in 2016, as we can assure you that the
Honourable Lincoln Douglas - Minister of Arts and
headlines will read … “The Mas Transformation Secretariat has
Multiculturalism, dinner hosted by NCC Chairman Mrs. Lorraine
done it again!”
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Pouchet, and a touristic day out learning about the rich history
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
For the second consecutive time in history the Mas Transformation Secretariat successfully planned and implemented a European Mas Trade and Tourism Mission a  s part of its mandate to develop Export Markets. Mas Quarterly is thrilled to share some of these highlights with you.
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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Launching the 2015 European Mas Trade and Tourism Mission to Trinidad and Tobago
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Visiting Invaders Pan Yard
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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Chilling with world renowned artiste Mr. LeRoy Clarke
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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Liming with Minister Douglas @ Hutt Shutts Sports Bar
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
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Dinner with NCC Chairman Lorraine Pouchet
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Stilt Walking
Junior Bisnath can be contacted at: San Fernando School of the Arts, Sports and Culture 9 Henry Street, San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 364 2706 Email: junior_bisnath@yahoo.com
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
IN San Fernando By Carol Quash
In Trinidad and Tobago and even the region, Moko Jumbies
as the San Fernando School of the Arts and Culture. With two
never miss an event. Concerts, parades, political meetings,
decades of teaching experience, this school teaches the art
you name it and they are there, tall above the rest –
of stilt walking as well as how to build the stilts, woodwork,
standing, dancing, running, hopping – depending on the
costume design, and unicycle riding, among other things.
nature of the event. “We train youths from three-years-old and up,” says Junior Moko Jumbies and the art of stilt walking were brought to
Bisnath. “My wife and I do the teaching. I build the stilts. I
this country from West Africa. They have religious
have been a cabinet maker with the Ministry of Works for the
significance that originated from a tribe that used them in
past 39 years. My wife is an artist and a seamstress.”
prayers and religious dances. The stilt walkers towered about 10 to 15 feet above everyone else, allowing them to foresee
He says although the school is based in the City of San
evil long before everyone else and giving them the ability to
Fernando there are a number of virtual campuses. “We train
protect the village. Moko means “God” and Jumbies, added to
about 200 students per year at home and in schools through
the name by liberated slaves, means “Ghosts”. Although they
the National Carnival Commission (NCC) of Trinidad and
have not adopted the religious aspect of the tradition, the
Tobago.” And the students are never starved for experience,
people of this region have mastered stilt walking and use the
although he says Carnival time is one of the busiest periods
characters in their own traditional ways.
for them, the rest of the year is also filled with activities for the Moko Jumbies.
In Carnival Masquerades long ago, Moko Jumbies wore long skirts or pants, brightly coloured jackets, masks and elaborate
“Around Carnival time we perform in every major event. But
top hats. They would dance through the streets while
we also perform right through the year. We are very active.
collecting money from people who were viewing the parade
We never stop. What we do is shaping the lives of our
from balconies in the old fashioned town houses of
students with lots of success.” He explains that the
Port-of-Spain. Today, as with everything else, the look and
performances are paid performances, bringing in income for
vibe of the Moko Jumbies have evolved. The art of stilt
the school and the students.
walking, however, remains a skill that continues to amaze many people, especially visitors.
Bisnath is passionate about his craft and skill and says his the nation. “Part of our plan is to get stilt walking in all
dangerous skill of stilt walking can be learnt at institutes such
schools in Trinidad and Tobago. That’s the big plan!”
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intention is to pass on this knowledge to the young people of While it may come naturally to some people, the apparently
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
Fame Mas is a festive and colourful event that sees thousands of masqueraders in costumes of varying designs and hues spilling out onto the streets of Trinidad and Tobago on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. Some of the costumes are the work of big name designers who have been in the business of Mas for decades, others, the work of smaller designers who are just beginning to make a name for themselves – like designers and Mas lovers Aaron Belmontes and Brandon Phillip of “Fame Designs Studio”.
Defiance Carnival Band
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Aaron Belmontes or Brandon Phillip can be contacted at: 226 Harper Circular, Reid Lane, D’abadie, Trinidad and Tobago Phone: 1 (868) 329 5817 Email: famedesignsstudios@gmail.com
Dreamteam 2015
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
DESIGN STUDIO By Carol Quash
“We provide costume designs and costume production,”
And as far as preparation goes, Belmontes says to himself and
Belmontes tells Mas Quarterly. They also do costume
his team, Carnival and Mas is certainly not a seasonal event,
personalisation for masqueraders who want their costumes to
especially with the Greatest Show on Earth carded for early in
be more detailed and make more of an impact when they take
February next year. “Carnival never ends. So we prepare all
to the streets.
year long.”
“We have been doing costume personalisation for five years
Notwithstanding its youthfulness in the Mas business, the
now. But the costume designs and production started two
Fame Designs Studio team intends to live its dream to the
years ago.”
fullest, and not just on a regional scale.
Their work is not limited to Trinidad and Tobago Mas.
“We want to show the world our talent. We intend to offer
Belmontes says, in addition to designing for Trinidad and
costumes that are comfortable and beautiful. Costumes that
Tobago Mas, their work was inspiring enough to get them a
won't fall apart before Carnival is over. We believe in detail
showing at St Lucia Carnival this year - and they don't intend
and not just in printed spandex with applique. By our
to stop there. “We plan to design and produce Mas for more
costumes, we want to make an impact on the stage so
bands overseas”, and he adds that it is not just his dream, “this
spectators won't just see men and women jumping on the
is a team and partnership show.”
stage, but they will see the beauty that is Carnival.”
While the inspiration for some designers comes from an array of experiences, Belmontes says his team finds its muse both in life's experiences and a desire for amelioration. “Our inspiration comes from life and the fact that we want to improve the quality of previous designs. We want to make Mas more modern.” And in doing that, he says, they understand the importance of doing their homework. “We also do a lot of research for the designs and study the characters that we have to portray,” – a labour of love that always pays off in the end. “The reception is always overwhelming and satisfactory. What we enjoy the most is the reaction and feedback from the public about our costume designs, from both young and old. Carnival has no age limit.
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We offer services to both adults and children,” he explains.
M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
YOU KNOW YOU SHOULDN’T. YOU’VE HEARD IT A THOUSAND TIMES. ON THE RADIO. AT THE OFFICE. EVEN SOCIALLY. THE EVIDENCE IS TOO OVERWHELMING TO IGNORE. EVERYONE KNOWS FOR A FACT THAT SMOKING CAN LEAD TO LIFE-THREATENING AILMENTS SUCH AS LUNG CANCER, STROKE, HEART DISEASE, AND TOO MANY OTHERS TO LIST. BUT DESPITE THE LITERATURE AND THE GRAPHIC ADVERTISEMENTS, ANY SMOKER WOULD TELL YOU, IT’S TOUGH TO STOP. MAYBE THEN IT’S TIME TO TRY SOME EXERCISE, WHICH MAY HELP
Even short bouts of light exercise such as walking can help smokers quit by reducing cigarette cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Research has also shown that moderate exercise can reduce common withdrawal symptoms, namely, stress, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, tension and poor concentration. A number of studies have also shown that the delay in lighting up the first cigarette after doing some form of exercise was two and sometimes three times longer.
GE
U TB
IX •
N’T P
Exercising increases the blood flow through your system by increasing your oxygen intake and heart rate, which is like making the pump work faster. As such, toxins and impurities are eliminated at a much faster rate, which facilitates the renewal of your blood cells, making you feel healthier and better.
Because smokers tend to have higher toxins from the tobacco in their blood compared to non-smokers, it is important that smokers in particular do regular exercise in order to “cleanse” the toxins. The American College of Sports Medicine and The American Medical Association now jointly advocate exercise as a "medicine" for cigarette smokers who are at increased risk for post-meal oxidative stress.
,
Why is it even more important for smokers to exercise? The cardiovascular system is like your body’s internal cleaning agent. It collects all of the used and “dirty” red blood cells from every part of your body through an intricate system of blood vessels which range in size. It then deposits the “soiled” red blood cells in various organs where the “garbage” can be eliminated. During this garbage disposal process, the cardiovascular system picks up nutrients along the way and deposits them in every part of your body. Your heart, which is key to the cleansing process, acts like a valve that takes in the “used blood” and pumps out clean blood which is rich in nutrients.
SN
M ’T
UF F
SMOKING
FF • JUST DO E
YOU STOP SMOKING.
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M A S Q U A R T E R LY - I S S U E 9
• SIMP
BUT WHAT TYPE OF EXERCISE SHOULD SMOKERS DO? Smokers should focus on cardiovascular activities to flush the toxins out of the body. Walking, jogging, cycling are all good options. Both exercise and smoking affect the same organ systems, but in opposite ways. While smoking decreases lung capacity, exercise increases it.
LY A
According to a study from the American Journal Physiological Endocrinology Metabolism, smoking disrupts the process of muscle building and repair, thus making it harder for you to attain maximum training gains from your workout. It’s safe to say that the habit of lighting and puffing would surely inflict a massive dent on your body’s ability to build and tone your muscles.
BA DI DEA • ONE B
EXERCISE
IG WHAT ABOUT WEIGHT TRAINING? Weight training is good and recent research is now showing that in terms of muscular gains, tobacco can affect your ability to build and tone muscle. For men in particular, smoking causes testosterone levels to be significantly lowered. Numerous studies have shown that smoking cigarettes can cause a dramatic reduction of testosterone levels within the body. Testosterone is the principal hormone responsible for defining the quality of your overall muscle growth and strength. Without high levels of testosterone, proper muscle development will cease to take place, so it’s best that you avoid smoking in order to derive maximum benefits from your workout sessions and diet.
So if you’re a smoker eager to achieve lean muscle gains, you must drop the habit as soon as possible. Otherwise the body’s ability to build and repair muscle tissue will be severely affected. Smoking may also damage your respiratory system. Smoke from cigarettes and tobacco can cause serious harm to your respiratory system, lowering oxygen absorption which consequently reduces your weight training performance. Since your oxygen absorption is low, you’ll fatigue faster and, hence, won’t be able to build mass muscle properly. I understand how hard it is to kick the habit, but it has to be done no matter what, and when you do, you’ll look and feel better. So forget about those cigarettes and get fit. Don’t puff, get buff! Article was originally published in the U Health Digest Issue 6 uhealthdigest.com
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Also, as smoking increases your risk of having a heart attack; exercise decreases it. But be smart. Smokers are usually in poorer cardiovascular health compared to non-smokers so it would be better to start with some light walking before attempting a 20K.
N
O
NO
•D
Incorporated in 2011 under the Trinidad and Tobago Companies Act, the Mas Transformation Secretariat was formed to implement the projects emanating from the National Carnival Development Foundation's (NCDF) Strategic Transformation Plan. Thus, the Secretariat is mandated to transform the Masquerade (Mas) component of Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival from being viewed as just a Cultural Activity into a Sustainable Industry. The Secretariat continues to partner with several Private and Public Sector Entities and some of its successes to date include: 1. The conceptualisation and publication of Mas Quarterly Magazine - the ONLY Magazine that highlights the Business of Trinidad and Tobago’s Masquerade (Mas) for Global Export. 2. The development of Standards and Quality Criteria for Mas with the National Training Agency (NTA). 3. Completing Phase 1 of the ‘Mas Gone Green Initiative’ by undertaking a Baseline Study and Green Carnival Costume Exhibition as tangible steps towards ensuring that Trinidad and Tobago’s Mas becomes 100% Environmentally Friendly within the next 3 – 5 years. 4. The Development of the BSc. Degree in Carnival Studies with University of the West Indies (UWI) Centre for Creative Arts. 5. Planning and implementing the first and ONLY Mas Trade Mission to Europe, focusing on Paris, France and Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Contact Mas Transformation Secretariat: Office: 59 Churchill Roosevelt Highway, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago W.I. Mailing: P.O. Box 5139, Woodbrook, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago W.I.
Interested in submitting articles or advertising in Mas Quarterly?
P: 868.223.4687 F: 868.223.8722 E: info@mastranstt.com
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