5 Year Anniversary issue (Rokara cover)

nuwomanmagazine.com

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ON THE COVERS On the cover- Kamela Forbes Credits : Photographer: Jason Mickle Stylist: Sandrine Fouilhoux Hair: Stanley DeVaughn Makeup: Lauren Whitworth Dress by Jean Paul Gaultier Earrings, cuff and bracelet by Avant Garde Paris Vintage sailor cap Uncle Sam’s Army Navy Outfitters NY, www.armynavydeals.com Sailor hat vintage Cover Design: Amelia J

To get the latest updates on Kamela’s modeling career, follow her on twitter @kamelaforbes and like her on Facebook.com/KamelaForbes

On the cover- Leila Lopes, Miss Universe 2011 Leila won Miss Angola UK 2010 on October 8, 2010, gaining the right to take part in the Miss Angola 2011 elections, but the victory caused protests within the Angolan community in Britain, due to the fact that she was not a resident of the UK and thus, not eligible.

The crucial win in Britain is what gave Lopes the opportunity to enter the Miss Angola 2011 contest and win Miss Universe 2011 Photo Credit: Miss Universe Organization/ Photographer: Fadil Berisha https://www.facebook.com/leilalopes.miss Cover design: Amelia J Designs

5-year Anniversary 3

ON THE COVERS On the cover- Rokara Hepburn Nu Face Season 3 winner Credits : Photographer: Barry Williams Photographer’s assts. Clifton Barry, David Dion, Trent Alter Stylist: Barry Williams Hair: Scherlin Major /Hair International Salon and Spa Makeup: Italia Williams/ Eye Candy Make-up Co Jacket and studded gloves: by Alicia Seymour Swimsuit by Cia Monet Snake: “Jackie” from the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre Cover Design: Amelia J

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Erica Meus Saunders CREATIVE DIRECTOR Barry Williams COPY EDITOR Tanya Simmons LIFESTYLES EDITOR Leah Larwood CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Latha Jayakumar Kaylus Horton Ontahya Ross Erica Meus-Saunders Felicity Ingraham Jodie McWilliams Cassie Benoit Janine Carey CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Barry Williams Fadil Berisha Kovah Duncombe Crag Adderley 4 nuwomanmagazine.com

Felicity Ingraham Latha Jayakumar GRAPHIC DESIGN Erica Meus-Saunders Amelia J Amoury MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION Email: suzette.scott@gmail.com OR Tel: (242) 676-7908 M: (242) 424-9879 Email: nuwomanmagazine@ymail.com NU WOMAN MAGAZINE is printed four times a year.

PUBLISHED BY NU WOMAN LTD Freddie Munnings Manor P.O. Box CB 13236 Nassau, Bahamas Email: nuwomanbs@gmail.com Web: http://nuwomanmagazine.com © 2012 Nu Woman Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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NU WOMAN

Caicos Islands.

MAGAZINE

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-Also available in Freeport, G.B (LMR Drugs, Solomon’s Foodstore, Bethel’s Bookstore, Appletree Pharmacy) & Providenciales, Turks and 5-year Anniversary 5

CONTENTS

Fall 2012 8 Publisher’s Page 10 Contributors

NU PROFILES 12. Symone Hall - Eye Candy Summer Camp Winner 20. Rokara Hepburn, Nu Face Season 3 Winner 44. Kamela Forbes- ‘Cover Girl’ 45. Terrell Major and Major Changes Rehab Centre

FEATURES 13. Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace - ‘Making Waves’ 26. The Honourable Loretta Butler-Turner 48. Leila Lopes Miss Universe, Gets Real About Her Duties 52. Natasha Brown, Fitness and Wellness Coach and Competitor 56. Pioneers in Bahamian Aviation. Nu Woman gets an opportunity to talk with the first three female captains promoted by Bahamasair.

60. Caribbean Athletes Shine at the London 2012 Olympics Games

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CONTENTS NU FASHION 30. Islands of the World Fashion Showcase by Latha Jayakumar 34. “Smoke Screen” editorial spread with Barry Williams 63. Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week (Spring/Summer 2013)

RELATIONSHIPS / REAL LIFE 24. 8 Reasons Why Relationships Fail and The Warning Signs You Should Look For

by Ontahya Ross 50. Put On Your Oxygen Mask by vision coach Kaylus Horton

HEALTH & FITNESS 16. The Year-Round Body with Cassie Benoit from Club One Fitness Centre 42. Ultherapy- a new procedure to tighten and tone skin by Dr. Gregory Neil 46. 3 Vegetarian Recipes by Jodi McWilliam

5-year Anniversary 7

What compares to a mother’s love? A tough question and the answer still eludes me. This year my baby, “Nu Woman” celebrates 5 years in circulation, and it’s a bittersweet celebration for me, as I’ve also lost my mother, Mrs. Laurene Saunders this year.

Great joy, coupled with great sadness; yet, through it all, there has been continued encouragement and support from friends and family as well as the Nu Woman community that is growing.

I read somewhere, that you cannot BECOME successful, but that you can only BE successful, as it is judged from every individual action: “If you spend years toiling unhappily in search of success, the outcome will also contain unhappiness, so strive to enjoy each step.” I have enjoyed the past five years in toiling to build this publication, and have been blessed to meet so many talented and inspirational people along the way. I celebrate in the success of this moment and strive for many more like it.

“5 Years Celebrating Women” is the title of this issue, and we have been fortunate to have had many last minute interviews with some truly inspirational women.

My creative director has chastised me for waiting till the last minute to do it all, but it has been an emotional few months, and I thank him for pushing me. I thank the Nu Woman team who have shown me that ‘no man is an island’, and even Goliath needs help and a moment of reprieve.

Special thanks to my family, especially my sisters, Mary, Stacey, Monique and Sophie, and my cousins Pauline, Rita, Tanya, Edith (Toto) and Desireene and Auntie Daisy; I could not have made it this far without you. To my mom and dad, thank you for instilling in me an understanding of family, of love and life.

I won’t list all the featured women, but encourage you to read each article with great care, and please send feedback on this issue; it’s good to know your thoughts and ideas on how we can improve.

Enjoy!

Erica Meus-Saunders Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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5-year Anniversary 9

CONTRIBUTORS

The day kicked off with a great smell of lemon grass oil at the Hair International Salon & Spa. Makeup brushes swished across cheeks like magic wands, and finished bangs greeted models’ foreheads as accoutrements to final looks. The inspiration for the shoot came from a favorite musical I’d seen a while back- Chicago. My grandparents also told me stories about the ‘The Cat & Fiddle’- the setting for jazz music and wild youth of 1940’s and 50’s Nassau, Bahamas. I wanted to capture the mood of that, coupled with styling elements from the American jazz period.

Check out Barry’s photo “Smoke Screen” editorial spread.

Contacts: M: 431-7678 Website: http://barryvwilliams.com Barry is the Creative Director of Nu Woman Magazine.

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Heike Wollenweber is a publicist, journalist and radio personality based in Kingston, Jamaica and Miami.

As a graduate from London Metropolitan University Heike started her company Axe-s Media in 2006 and has been primarily working in music and fashion, adding fine art to her portfolio more recently. Heike currently represents various Jamaican and Bahamian musical artistes internationally and her radio show All Axe-s is on air in the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos as well as online and on iTunes.

Heike Wollenweber AXE-S Media • 876 484 6023 (Jamaica) • All AXE- S Radio

Leah Larwood has been a lifestyle contributor at NU Woman magazine since spring 2009. Originally from England, Leah has been living in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands for the last few years. She is a published coauthor of a travel book about the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Although she specializes in food and travel writing, last year for NU Woman she wrote about her quest in running the New York marathon. She is currently studying for a Masters Degree in Creative Writing.

Leah was recently promoted to Nu Woman Magazine’s Lifestyles Editor.

Seasoned photographer, Dwayne Delancy plays a big role in the publication of these issues.

Dwayne has photographed a few covers for Nu Woman and has added his unique style. Dwayne has covered events from Islands of The World Fashion Week and Bahamas International Film Festival to the Miss Universe Pageant. He has also contributed in the ‘Nu Face Model Search Season 2 and photographed Miss Bahamas Universe 2011 contestants.

(Photography & Vintage R&B Music Tel: 424-6067)

CONTRIBUTORS

LYNDAH WELLS - is a Lifestyle and Fashion photographer, based in Freeport, Bahamas. She was born in Lagos, Nigeria and raised in London, England. Living in the Bahamas, there is a wealth of natural beauty, and Lyndah has branched out and is capturing the beauty of The Islands of the Bahamas, with her own unique style. “As a photographer, I bring to my work a unique background in Fashion & Design, using modern imagery techniques, I explore photography fully. It is my goal to create images that are memorable and deliver exceptional photography with every press of the shutter. Photography makes me happy, it allows me to reveal myself and express my creativity, I see the beauty of light, and that is what photography is about, light that allows me to capture the most beautiful of stories.” lyndahwellsphoto@gmailcom

N a s i a Colebrooke - 20 year old Nasia Rená Colebrooke (pronounced Nahja), has a passion for the Arts.

Although she specializes in writing, she believes in the creativity of the minds of young Bahamians in other forms of Art and truly believes in the growth of the Visual and the Performing Arts, in the Bahamas.

Nasia is currently a Junior at the College of The Bahamas, pursuing an English Literature Bachelor of Arts Degree. Along with being a writer, she is also aiming to become an English teacher. After gaining her Master’s of Fine Arts Degree, she hopes to return to a Bahamas that has more eclectic career opportunities for the budding minds of today’s youth.

Nasia’s hobbies include playing volleyball, watching movies, dancing, laughing and just enjoying life.

She urges the talent of today to keep chasing their dreams, no matter how unorthodox they may seem. Never settle. There can never be change or versatility in the Bahamas unless we become the change we want to see.

TANYA P. SIMMONS Tanya P. Simmons is a graduate of C.R. Walker Secondary School, The College of the Bahamas and the University of Central Oklahoma.

She is an avid reader who enjoys traveling and the occasional jet boat ride over rapids.

Tanya

is

Nu

Woman

Magazine’s Copy Editor

Nassau based self taught graphic designer with focuses on print design.

My goal when designing, is to creatively stimulate while also producing work that is effortlessly functional. I love being an artist, and am constantly striving to learn more and polish my skills.

Facebook: AJDesigns • ameliajamoury@gmail.com www.ameliajamoury.com

www.lyndahwells.com Tel: 242-727-9043

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Symone Hall Eye Candy’s Summer Camp Winner Winner of Eye Candy’s Summer Camp, sixteen year old Symone Alexandria Hall is excited to be both a winner and a feature in Nu Woman Magazine.

The eleventh grade student of St. Augustine’s College, New Providence, enjoys dancing and drawing. She is the daughter of proud parents Cara and Stanley Hall and a sister to Savanna, Crispin and Stanley Hall Jr. Symone sat down with Nu Woman Magazine to share her glee and future plans.

Nu Woman: What prompted you to join the camp?

Symone: As a client to Eye Candy Make-up Store for the past two years, I’ve learned about the camp through owner, Italia Williams. I thought it was a great opportunity for me to get involved and learn things about make-up that I did not because I am a dancer and we are required to wear stage make-up.

Nu Woman: What was the experience like? What did you learn?

Symone: The experience, in my opinion, was worthwhile. It was an experience where girls learn about the Do’s and Dont’s of makeup. It was also an opportunity to gain confidence in one’s self.

Nu Woman: What was it like to win and how do you feel about your feature in Nu Woman?

Symone: When I won “Miss Photogenic”, I was overjoyed because I thought there were many girls with beautiful pictures. Being chosen boosted my confidence and it gave me affirmation that there is something inside of me that I need to let shine. Additionally, being a feature in Nu woman was a fantastic idea!

Nu Woman: Has this experience opened any new doors, or given you another perspective on future goals?

Symone: Yes, this experience has opened many doors for me. I was offered a modeling job from one of the clothing stores that was advertising in the fashion show. The Candy Girls camp made me realize that there is hope to pursue a career in professional make-up because many people do not know the right ways of applying makeup. Many want beauty enhancements, but do not know how to achieve it.

Nu Woman: What are your future goals?

Symone: My future goals are quite simple but they will be tedious. I plan to finish high school with honors, go to college on a scholarship and find a career that’s calling out to me! I know that whatever I choose to do, I will to the best of my ability and have fun while doing it!

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ARIANNA VANDERPOOL-WALLACE Making Waves

by Erica Meus-Saunders

The 2012 London Olympics were probably the best Olympics for me ever. It was simply amazing to watch, as I think it was one of the few times that we as Caribbean people pulled together and supported our athletes as a group rather than as individual countries.

The Bahamas 4x400 metres men relay team won one medal - Gold, and it was truly amazing to watch.

The young woman who you are about to read about did not win any medals but she accomplished something that no other Bahamian had done before. Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace was the first ever Bahamian to make it to the semi-final rounds in the 100 metres freestyle winning her heat at 53.73 seconds, and then she became the first Bahamian to make it to the 50 metres freestyle finals, placing third in her heat at 24.54 seconds and 8th overall in the world in the 50 metres women’s freestyle.

I ‘jumped the gun’ and emailed Arianna while she was still in London and just after she had completed her meets and she got back to me almost immediately. She thanked me for emailing her and said that as she had completed her races she had some time to respond to emails.

London 2012 Schedule Aug 4 Women’s 50m Freestyle Final - 8th, time 24.69 sec Aug 3 Women’s 50m Freestyle Semifinals (1/4)- 3rd, time 24.64 sec Aug 1 Women’s 100m Freestyle Semifinals (1/4)-5th, time 54.12 sec Aug 3 Women’s 50m Freestyle - Heats (10/17) - 3rd, time 24.85 sec Aug 1 Women’s 100m Freestyle - Heats (6/17)- 1st, time 53.73 sec Arianna’s interview with Nu Woman Nu Woman: What were your expectations going into the Olympic games?

Arianna: My expectations going into the Olympic Games, just dealt with me swimming my best times, because I knew that is what it would take to make the semi-finals and then finals. I was fortunate enough to swim a best time in both my 50 and 100 and although I didn’t make finals in the 100, I was still happy with my performance.

NW: When you made the semi-finals in the 100m freestyle, what were your initial thoughts?

Arianna: Making the semi-final of the 100 was a great feeling, because my race was so late in the schedule of events, I had to sit around and watch others perform while my nerves continued to build up. So once I had won my heat and made it into semis, it felt as though a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. However, I feel like it was because I felt that weight off my shoulders that I wasn’t able to make the finals in the 100 freestyle, I went into the semi-final a little bit to relaxed.

NW The 50m freestyle is your strongest race? Any expectations going into the finals?

Arianna: I wouldn’t actually consider the 50 freestyle my strongest race, but at international competitions I continue to perform better in it than the 100 freestyle, so it is exciting to swim fast 5-year Anniversary 13

in a race that I don’t consider my stronger one. My expectations going into finals were that anything is possible in the final of the 50 freestyle as times are separated by mere tenths of a second. But I also knew that it was going to take a huge swim on my part to get on to the podium.

NW: What has the reaction been like from your family and Bahamian fans?

Arianna: The reaction from my Bahamian family and friends/fans has been almost overwhelming. I guess because I was the only swimmer to make it this year, it got the attention of the country and caused people to pay attention to the swimming world. I believe that before my performance at the Olympics, on the whole, Bahamians knew very little about swimming and swimmers, but now I believe that they are a lot more interested in the sport and that is a great feeling for me.

NW: What does it mean to you to be the first Bahamian to have made it this far?

Arianna: I am very honored to have been the first Bahamian to make it to the finals; however, I feel as though I am still following in the footsteps of other great swimmers that came before me. I don’t believe that this is the end of my career and I feel as though I have a lot more to learn.

NW: How has your performance at the Olympic Games changed or altered your train of thought moving forward?

Arianna: I feel as though the Olympics has motivated me to continue on in the sport. I know that I made mistakes and I was able to make it that far, so if I sharpen up my skills, I will be able to really compete with the girls that I have to swim against.

NW: What lessons have you learnt from this experience?

Arianna: I think that being a competitive athlete allows you to experience and learn things that just aren’t teachable in everyday life. Outside of the Olympics as well as during the Olympics, I had moments when I was knocked down (not making the final in the 100 freestyle, even though my prelim time would have made finals) and I wasn’t sure that I wanted to get up, but it was during these times that I learned how important courage and trust are in my life and career. It is when I have been knocked down and gotten up that I have experienced my most successful moments.

NW: What has been your most nerve-wrecking moment in these meets?

Arianna: For me the most nerve-wrecking moments are watching my competitors swim races before I compete against them. They have to opportunity to race and become confident before I do, and mentally it is very hard to know that they are swimming fast, when you aren’t sure how you (me) are going to swim.

NW: How has Arianna changed/grown from the young lady who competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics?

Arianna: So many things happened to me throughout my career since 2008 that I feel as though I am a brand new swimmer. I think that to sum it up I would say that I was so young in my career in 2008 and in the past four years, everything was a learning experience for me and I came out on the other side, stronger and more confident.

NW: You have been making waves for some time now in the college arena competing in many meets, what has been your most memorable?

Arianna: I don’t think I could choose one particular moment from my college experience that would be the most memorable, as it was all such a great experience. But if I had to pick one it would have to be, being the first woman in college to go under 47 seconds in the women’s 100 metre freestyle. As well as the fact that I am one of only two females that has ever gone under 47, joined by the legend Natalie Coughlin!

NW: What does Arianna do in her ‘down time’? Is there a ‘down time’?

Arianna: There hasn’t been very much downtime for me, as swimming and school have essentially been full time jobs! I am looking forward to experiencing a little bit more of life now that I just ended the four year cycle of the Olympics and my school is winding down.

NW: Any siblings?

Arianna: Yes, I have one older brother, Aleksandr Vanderpool-Wallace NW: What do you think has been the major factor that has propelled you this far?

Arianna: I think the fact that I am one of very few African-American/Caribbean swimmers; I’d like to set a precedent for other girls as well as all swimmers to follow. And make it known that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and go at it with full force.

NW: You are already setting a standard for many Bahamians to follow, what is the one thing you want to be remembered for so far?

Arianna: Like I said above, I really just want to be remembered for leading the way for younger swimmers to come through and go further than me.

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NW: As this magazine issue is about celebrating women, who has been the key woman/women in your life?

Arianna: I have been lucky enough to have many key women in my life that have motivated and instructed my in different ways.

Firstly grandmothers and aunts, because they are such strong women that helped raised me to have the work ethic and morals that I have today. At 15 years old, I went off to boarding school and was taken care of by 5 different “dorm mothers� they all had some sort of wisdom and experience that molded me. Overall, my mother has and will continue to be the key to my success and happiness. She has devoted her life to raising my brother and I, and insuring that we are happy at all times, the sacrifice that it takes to be willing to go to the end of the earth for us, is not lost on me, and I thank God everyday for blessing me with such a great mother.

NW: Tell us a little about future plans.

Arianna: At this point I am really taking my life one step at a time, and preparing for the road ahead of me, by taking care of myself mentally and physically now so that I will be prepared for whatever comes my way.

Photo credits : Getty Images.

Photographers: Fabrice Coffrini & Ezra Shaw

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T

“The Year-Round Body”

By Cassie Benoit

So that last fad diet didn’t work for you huh? No worries!

The good, long-standing theories of exercising will always be here. It will be painful, you will sweat, and sometimes you won’t look cute, but those are nothing compared to feeling and looking your best in the end right? Right!

You can definitely lose the weight, tone those muscles, feel energized and look amazing by “amping” up your workout or by just getting started. Whatever your goals, with exercise combined of course, with a healthy eating regimen and a strong will, you can achieve them.

I am a firm believer in circuit training especially for women. As a woman and former athlete, my body responds much better to circuit training as opposed to a traditional “upper body/ lower body workout”.

In circuit training, single exercises, resistance and aerobic, are combined to create one highly effective training session. A circuit can be developed to accommodate small spaces, lack of equipment, a “time crunch” or to better incorporate a partner or group workout into a particular regimen.

Forget that summer body! Here is an easy, equipmentfree workout to jump start your journey to your ‘Year Round Hot Body’:

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“THE BODY� Workout

The following exercises should be done for 30 seconds, completing as many reps as you can. Beginners should complete the entire circuit twice. As you become comfortable, you should increase the time per exercise and the amount of times you complete the circuit.

After a 5 to 10 minute warm-up of walking, running or jogging, complete each following exercise once to serve as a circuit.

Cassie demonstrates Front Lunge

Jumping Jacks

*Target: Cardiovascular System Stand with feet apart and hands at your side. Jump feet outward while simultaneously raising your arms out and over your head.

Bring everything back inward. This is one jumping jack.

Front Lunges

*Target: Hamstring, Quadriceps, and Gluteal muscles Beginning with both legs shoulder width apart and standing upright, step one foot forward and bend at both knees until you create 90 degree angle. Bring the leg back in and repeat on opposite leg to complete one rep.

Side shuffle

*Target: Side shuffle To begin, stand with feet hip width apart, knees bent and back upright. Take a wide step to the left, bringing the right foot quickly towards the left, repeating to marker. Repeat in the other direction.

Jumping Jacks

Push Ups

*Target: Pectorals, deltoids and triceps Get onto the floor with legs hip width apart, body straight.

Hands should be slightly outside of the shoulders. Lower the body towards the floor keeping it straight. Modify this exercise with knees on the ground. Lower the upper body while keeping it straight so that it is parallel to the floor and then back up to starting position. This is one rep.

Mountain Climbers

*Target: Cardiovascular System Start in a push-up position body straightened and parallel to the floor. With a tight core, lift right foot toward right elbow and chest and take it back to starting position. Repeat with left leg for one rep. This should be done in a speedy fashion while keeping form and a tight core.

Squats

*Target: Hamstring and Quadriceps Stand upright with feet shoulder width apart, and extend arms in front of you at shoulder level. Lower your body as far as you can, pushing hips back as if to sit in an invisible chair, while bending your knees. Return to standing upright position. This is one rep.

Side shuffle

Always finish your workouts with adequate stretching and a good, balanced meal.

Mountain Climbers Target Cardiovascular System

Push Ups

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“Work Like a boss, Play like a Pro, and Train like a Beast!” - Cassie Benoit Cassie Benoit Certified Personal Trainer/Correctional Specialist BSc in Athletic Training

Recovery Nutrition By: Janine Carey

Knowing what to eat after a workout is essential to feeling great and creating a healthy body. You need to eat the correct amount of carbohydrates and protein to have a speedy recovery after a run, a weight training session or any activity that is beyond what your body is accustomed to.

The ideal ratio is 4g of carbohydrate to 1g of protein. Receiving these from whole, plant-based, alkaline-forming foods that are nutritious, dense and easy to digest, is ideal. These types of foods supply the body with shortterm and long-term energy, create a balanced pH and provide the body with enzymes for optimal health. Foods that aren’t rich in nutrients, lead to increased physical strains and stresses, general fatigue and cravings for starch and sugar.

Recovery drinks are the easiest ways to receive these plant-based, alkaline, energy-rich foods, right after a workout.

Squat

By following the directions below, you too, can have a recovery drink at the

palm of your hands. Start by blending: 1 cup berries, 1 banana and 1tbsp hemp protein.

You can add 1 tsp of chlorella or spirulina for extra greens and 1 cup coconut water for extra electrolytes. If you don’t have coconut water, use water or almond milk as alternatives. If you don’t have hemp protein, use a handful of walnuts.

A simple salad can do the trick as well. Take 1 bunch leafy greens, 1 cup chickpeas, and 1 cup mixed vegetables (cucumber, tomato, onion, garlic).

Combine with your favourite vinaigrette and enjoy!

Janine Carey Health Coach Club One Fitness Centre Experience quality training with certified Personal Trainers.

West Bay Street One Sandyport Plaza Call Us 327-2685

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Jacket and studded gloves by Alicia Seymour Swimsuit by CIAMONET Photography: Barry Williams Photographer’s assts: Clifton Barry, David Dion, Trent Alter Hair: Scherlin Major of Hair International Salon & Spa Makeup: by Italia Williams of Eye Candy Make-up Co. 20 nuwomanmagazine.com

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ach year Nu Woman Magazine holds a model search for locals who compete for the cover of the magazine along with numerous other prizes. Rokara entered the competition and the first thing I remember her saying was, “I want to be on the cover of Nu Woman.”

We had a few casting calls and she ended up in the top three selection. A tomboy at heart and a little awkward, Rokara still managed to impress and walked away with the Nu Woman Magazine cover as well as a six weeks training course from PTG Modeling Agency, an endless supply of shadows and lip gloss from Diva’s Loft, an iPad 2 from DC Technology and several other prizes.

Rokara’s Interview with Nu Woman NW: Have you always wanted to be a model? How did you get into it?

Rokara: Actually, no I haven’t. I was a tomboy growing up, and never would have thought that I would love modeling as much as I do. I got into modeling in the summer of 2011.

A lady approached me in Mario’s Bowling Alley asking me to attend a casting call they were having that very moment. I was interested so I went and have loved it ever since.

NW: What made you interested in Nu Woman’s Nu Face Model Search?

Rokara: I watched Nu Woman’s Nu Face Model Search on tv and online a few times before, so I’ve always been interested. My mentor called me and told me there was going to be a casting call for it, so I jumped on the chance.

NW: What was it like being in the competition?

Rokara: I had a great time during the competition! I met amazing people and did things I never thought I would have.

NW: How did you feel posing with a snake for the cover?

Rokara: I was thrilled! I love almost all animals and it’s not every day you get to pose with such a horrifyingly beautiful reptile.

NW: This issue that you are featured in celebrates women; who have been the most memorable and influential women in your life? And why?

Rokara: One of the most influential women in my life is my mother. I’ve watched this woman suffer and endure pain for her kids. Life was hard and things were rough but no matter the situation she tried. She would give her last and smile through the storm if that meant seeing us happy. Because of her I know never to give up, always try and weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning. I am who I am because of her.

NW: Up to this point you have not seen the cover, what are you expecting?

Rokara: No I haven’t seen the cover but I’m very eager to see the outcome. I think the shoot went well so I’m expecting good things.

NW: As a Nu Face winner you will be expected to do some hosting for the show at some point, are you prepared for that?

Rokara: Yes! I’m prepared and excited for it all to begin.

NW: What are your future goals moving forward?

Rokara: I expect great things for my future. I want to be signed to one of the top agencies in the world and I intend to make a bigger and better name for myself in the fashion industry.

NW: What are your hobbies?

Rokara: My hobbies are singing, poetry writing, reading, traveling and gardening.

NW: Did you think that you would win?

Rokara: No I didn’t think I was going to win and that doesn’t mean that I doubted myself, it’s just better to be humble. With me it wasn’t all about winning; it was mainly about the experience I was granted and the fact that I enjoyed myself and had fun competing.

NW: What have you learnt from this experience?

Rokara: During this experience, I’ve learnt to expect the unexpected and to be open and accept change.

NW: Was the competition all that you thought it would be?

Rokara: The competition was all that I thought it would be and more. I didn’t expect to meet such amazing girls and to form a friendship with them. I am truly grateful.

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Look for Rokara, in the broadcast of Nu Face Model Search on Cable 12, CaribVision and a few other stations in your area. Next season Nu Face Model Search goes Caribbean wide! Check out the details at: http://nuwomanmagazine.com. .

Photography: Barry Williams Snake: “Jackie� from the Ardastra Gardens Zoo and Conservation Centre Make-up: Eye Candy Makeup Co Hair: Scherlin Major

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Rushing into a relationship is one of the top reasons why relationships fail

When a person is not willing to wait, that usually means there are deeper issues and a warning sign you should pay close attention too. Slow down, take your time, and before you rush into a relationship, take the time to really get to know each other. You cannot have a successful relationship when your partner is a stranger.

Get to know them and not their representative

It’s during the process of getting to know someone that the warning signs and red flags flare. This is where you decide if this is a relationship, you want to pursue. So many of us skip this step and land in relationships, asking ourselves, how did I not see this? Not everyone will reveal his or her true selves or intentions. Everyone is on his or her best behavior, that’s why it’s important not to rush. Get to know them and their representative. After all, what’s the rush?

In love or In love With Love?

Many of us don’t realize how much the media affects our relationships - from the movies we watch to the music we listen too. As a result, we romanticize, fantasy, and mimic our relationships after what we see in movies and what we hear in songs. The problem comes in when you start picking your mate and basing your relationships off of things that aren’t real.

Half of what we see on television and in music videos is an illusion, meant to entertain.

When the lights go off, the curtain closes, and the actors go home we are left with this distortion of what REAL love is and what a REAL relationship should be.

We make it impossible to find a mate because we are constantly trying to find a mate to match something that does not exist. Many jump from relationship to relationship because their relationship is not like the ones seen on TV. They are in love with idea of love not the person. If you’ve only been dating a week and he or she says I love you, made wedding plans and named your future kids, they’re living in a fairytale and most likely in love with the idea of love, not you. By no means am I saying you can’t have your fairytale love, because you can.

But, you’re setting yourself, your relationship and your partner up for failure when you constantly base your partner and relationship on something that is not tangible.

Lust or Love?

It’s alarming that most of us still don’t know the difference between lust and love. It happens to the best of us, you 24 nuwomanmagazine.com

get caught up in the world wind and you swear you’re head over heels, and a few months later, you’re asking yourself what the hell happen? What did I ever see in this person? When sex is the main topic of discussion, and the things you once found cute are now annoying; when you barely have anything in common yet, a few months ago you were ready to share each other’s last name. It’s great to find your partner desirable but you cannot build a successful, lasting relationship on desire alone. If you want to build a lasting relationship, you have to know the difference between lusting for someone and being in love with someone.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate…

Communication is one of the biggies. No matter how great all the other aspects of the relationship are, the relationship is doomed to fail if you don’t learn how to communicate effectively. Not everyone knows how to communicate correctly, but the great thing is it’s something that can be learned.

A big part of communication is listening - pay close attention so you understand what’s being said. A lot of times without even knowing, we say we’re listening, but our mind is preoccupied with something else and we end up getting a distortion of what our partner is trying to tell us. Let your partner know that they are being heard and that you understand by validating what they are saying. Let them know you get it. Always put yourself in your partner’s shoes and see how they feel.

Your partner is not a mind reader so stop expecting your partner to magically know what you are thinking.

Communicate, tell them why you are upset, and when your partner does communicate why he or she is upset, empathize. It’s a powerful connection when you’re able to feel what your partner is feeling. If it’s something your partner is doing that’s repeatedly hurtful or annoying don’t nag about the issue. Most of us don’t even realize we’re nagging .We nag when we feel like we are not being heard and we repeat the issue over and over until we feel the message is received. But all your partner hears is blah, blah, blah, nag, nag, nag.

Instead of beating a dead horse, ask for what you want.

You don’t spend any time, you spend all your time with your friends and no time with me, you never help around the house, etc... Those maybe valid points, but that’s not what your partner is hearing. All they hear is that once again, you’re unhappy about something. Once again they fail to do something right.

If you would like your partner to help more around the house, ask him or her to wash the dishes. If you feel as though you and your partner aren’t spending enough time together ask him or her to take you out to the movies or bowling. You can even

make it into a regular date night! You get a more positive response when you ask for what you want.

You’re more likely to get a positive response when you approach with love and positivity than negativity and hostility.

You can communicate until you are blue in the face and use all the correct techniques, but none of that matters if you do not have a partner that’s willing to do the work.

Actions

Sometimes words are just not enough, show her. Keep your word. The ability to keep your word says a lot about a person’s character. Take heed when what a person says, never seems to match up to the things they do. If they are making promises but never, deliver on that promise, that’s a warning sign of things to come.

Conflict is healthy, however avoiding conflict sometimes isn’t.

Conflict is inevitable, but can be healthy, especially when you’re in a relationship, but avoiding conflict isn’t healthy. I understand conflict can be uncomfortable, and more than anything, you want things back to how they use to be; but if you hold back your feelings and don’t share what’s on your mind it creates resentment and much more.

Having disagreements or arguments here and there doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything he or she says. However, you do have to learn how to fight fair.

We’ve all been there; as soon as conflict occurs the things you shared with your significant other in confidence is regurgitated and used against you. Name calling, making threats, and using things shared in confidence against your partner are below the belt and definitely not fighting fair. When you don’t fight fair it becomes more about winning an argument than hearing your partner. Don’t let the need to be right cost you your relationship. Is winning the fight worth losing the relationship?

Is the past the past?

The past plays a prominent part of the future. While it’s unfair to judge someone based on their past, a look into their past relationships and behaviors can give you the insight needed. Are there any kids from previous relationships? If so, how does he or she treat their kids? Is he or she responsible for their kids financially? Even past relationships, do they have a history of hoping from relationship to relationship? Were they abusive? Is the ex still in the picture? People can, and do change and everyone deserve a second chance, but be aware of what you’re getting yourself into before jumping into a relationship.

Don’t Go Overboard

Always make it a habit to be cautious in anything you do, but never get so wrapped up in looking for the bad in a person that you miss all the good. Signs and warnings are meant to make us aware. So be aware, but don’t let it stop you from finding true love.

Always coming from a place of love, Life Lessons Ontahya is an entrepreneur and a new upcoming author.

She’s the author of the forthcoming novel Between My Legs: One woman’s story of how learning to love one’s self comes at one hell of a price. Follow her at Inspirational-life.com And @OntahyaRoss as well as facebook.com/ontahya T 5-year Anniversary 25

Photography

Barry Williams

My initial interview with the Honourable Loretta Butler-Turner had been scheduled almost a month earlier, but a great deal had transpired since that time, mainly the passing of my mother. So it was rather ironic that I was meeting her at their family funeral home (Butler’s Funeral Home) for this interview. She had chosen this location because she said that it was where it all began.

Mrs. Butler-Turner greeted me cheerfully and proceeded to greet everyone in the building and introduced me to her mother on the way into the conference room. After a few minutes of small talk, we got into the interview. The interview proved enjoyable and very educational for me. Mrs. Butler-Turner spoke on all subjects: about family, politics and Bahamian women in politics, to Family Island development and to what brought her the most pleasure.

Loretta Butler-Turner talks about her early beginnings Nu Woman: You began as a funeral director, and went on to achieve your Bachelor’s in Mortuary Science, that’s very different; tell us a little about that.

Hon. Butler-Turner: Yes, that is one of the reasons why I’m doing this interview here is because this is the foundation of my being. Certainly, I’m here with my parents. I was born ‘a stone’s throw away’ from this place; this is the business that made me who I am in terms of what I’ve done in society; and this was my stepping stone from my family into politics.

I was in fact a reluctant mortician and funeral director. My life’s dream as a teenager, (even though I was being pushed by teachers and classmates to go into politics from an early stage) was perhaps to go into theatre.

NW: Okay Loretta Butler-Turner: In 1977/78, when I was getting ready to graduate, I told my parents what my dream was and that certainly was not a part of their psyche. They said to me that I would have to determine what I’m going to do because I needed a real job. So I was a reluctant funeral director.

I grew up at this very spot, we lived over the funeral home all of our lives.

It was a business that my father had started; it was very successful and even though I had a very strong science background, I determined that since I had no other desire, ‘let me see what the family business is about’.

So I didn’t go off to college immediately. I worked in this business for six years studying under my father, being the ‘Girl Friday’, being the gofer, the car cleaner, being everything and moving up through the ranks. Then my father started teaching me the science of embalming. So I can say that I was apprenticed to him.

So six years later, I made a determination that this was my calling and that

I would forgo my previous dream and go off to college and become a licensed mortician and businessperson.

NW: So how did you end up in politics?

LBT: Once again, back in my high school days, I was a very strong debater, myself along with Carl Bethel and two others led the debating team for St. Andrews School. We won numerous competitions and my teachers back then were pushing me to either go into law, and knowing my family background, my grandfather, said ‘you know Loretta, I think you should go into politics’, obviously having grown up in that environment. I guess I’m one that always goes against tradition; I sort of ‘March to my own drum’ and so I was not going to follow in someone else’s footsteps. Once again, when you talk about the reluctance of going into the family business, if politics was also part of the family business, I was very reluctant to go into that.

It was during my studies abroad when I had to do several research papers and one of them was on the politics of the Bahamas, believe it or not.

It was in 1984/85 there about, around the same time that we were having the Commission of Inquiry in the Bahamas, and there was a lot of information in the United States. I did a wonderful research paper on what was going on in the Bahamas and I started to determine that even though my family was in politics, the party of the day; the governing party of the day through my research and what was going on globally and the negative reports we were getting, that even if I were to consider going into politics, I probably wouldn’t consider going with the traditional family party which was the PLP. When I returned in 1987 or thereabout, that was probably the first time that I had to make a determination whether I was in fact going to support the PLP or support an alternative choice. The Free National Movement ran Pierre Dupuch in this area and so the rest was history.

I determined once again to ‘March to my own drumbeat’ and for my own personal reasons I stepped away from the PLP. So in 1992, when Hubert Ingraham came on the scene (he visited this very same place) he convinced, or tried to convince I should say, all my family to follow him. He had then become leader of the Free National Movement and he knew that I was on board and I remembered him having long conversations with my parents and inviting them to join him. I am not going to speak as to what they did, but I was on board.

On Keeping a Balance NW: Well, you answered a few questions in that summation. My next question, how do you balance family life with politics?

LBT: Sometimes I think I’m insane (laughter) you know. I still don’t have balance in my life.

It’s sometimes very erratic, you know. But the reality is, you still have to find the time to devote to all of these faucets of your life. So somewhere along the way, one of two may become compromised at some point. But most importantly, my husband and my children have always been my biggest support base, and they have been truly most understanding.

My other support base is certainly my parents in particular and of course my siblings. I think that once one is rooted in the faith, certainly God helps to direct one’s path. The family is the structure that keeps you strong. So I have found my family being who they are, they have probably made more compromises than I have, to make sure everything remains intact.

And I am so grateful for them. I’ve got the most supportive husband and children and certainly my parents; I am what I am because of them.

Let me tell you, family is the most important thing that you will have.

which are on their way to that level. But I’d like to speak particularly to Long Island which I have the privilege of representing. Do I think sufficient has been done? No, it hasn’t reach its full potential in terms of what the people of Long Island would like to see happen there.

The further south you go, you see less and less development in our archipelago. I think that Long Island has potential to maintain its authenticity, its uniqueness and still reach a level of development that would bring economic stimulation for all the persons that are there.

We grew up in a very close-knit family. My grandparents Sir Milo and Lady Caroline lived less than 200 feet away from us. So I grew up in their shadow. I lived on the family island with my maternal grandparents in my earlier years.

My maternal grandmother made all of our clothing; I lived with her and my grandfather as a young child in Long Island. When they became older and they moved back to Nassau and retired, there was not a day that we did not see them. They helped ‘to grow my children up’ and so that’s how close we are as a family.

We have never lost that real strong family structure. Often times you would hear me refer to things that my grandmother or my grandfather might have said. Those are things that helped to not only keep me grounded, but to certainly maintain my moral compass as I moved forward.

By in large, I think the islands of the Bahamas should be looked at individually and in consultation with residents and descendants of those islands to make a comprehensive plan to what the vision of each island should be. So that they can all maintain their various uniqueness. I think that would be very, very important for us moving forward.

On Family Island Development

NW: What have you been doing all your life (laughter)?

NW: You said you spent a lot of time on Family Islands, do you think enough is being done to bring Family Islands to the forefront, to promote the Family Islands to the rest of the world as part of our tourist package when it comes to advertising the Bahamas?

LBT: I have had the privilege of being a Minister in the previous administration, and one of the things we focused on particularly was helping to bring out the characteristics of each family island. We thought it was important to not overdevelop these islands with huge anchor projects, things that would be similar to what’s happening in Cable Beach and Paradise Island because as you traverse the Bahamas you will find that each island has its own unique characteristics. One of the things we had started to do was to create each island as its own destination.

To the question at hand, do I think sufficient is being done? I think that we have not had a comprehensive view thus far on how we want to see each particular island developed, so you are seeing a very staggered level of development as you go from island to island.

For example, if you went to Grand Bahama, Freeport in particular, you will see the huge amount of infrastructural development in the city of Freeport, which hearkens back to the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, where you had the developers who came in there and received that agreement to do certain things.

But you look at a place like Abaco, which in terms of infrastructural development has been fully developed by the resources of the government of the Bahamas. I would say that Abaco is probably the most developed Family Island that we have. Then you look at other islands like Eleuthera and Exuma,

About ‘Down Time’ NW: This is an easy one. What do you do in your downtime? Do you have any downtime?

Loretta Butler-Turner: In my downtime, I sit in my garden every single day - every evening. I am a nature lover. One of the things that I have recently taken up since becoming the MP for Long Island is boating and learning to fish.

LBT: I know, I don’t know. I haven’t started crabbing as yet. I was afraid of catching crabs, but there was a proliferation. You think Andros is the crab capital you have got to go to Long Island. So I’m eating the crabs, but I’m not catching them, but anything that takes me back to nature; being outdoors and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors is my favourite down time.

I’m also a great reader of current events and I’m reading currently various biographies. So I do a lot of reading, but my favourite down time is just to be among things that are natural.

It gives me the opportunity to introspect. It gives me a great opportunity to think about what I might have done and certainly how I can correct mistakes I would have made. And so you will find that for me, my family knows when I’m alone in my garden that that’s my quiet time. That’s my time of introspection. It’s also a time where I feel I’m close to God and I’m able to certainly reflect on the values that have been instilled in me, so that is the most amazing thing that I do for myself.

On Bahamian Women in Politics NW: Where do you see our country going in terms of female leadership? There are many female voters, but when you look at the number of females who are actually in parliament it’s unbalanced. Can you see a female Prime Minister in the next few elections?

LBT: I think that certainly when we look at the leadership of our country, the first thing that needs to be considered is the individual, gender is not important. I think that if there is a woman that is demonstrating the skills 5-year Anniversary 27

to lead our country, there should not be any discrimination. If there is not such a woman, then I think that the country will continue on its course. I think that the fact that the women outnumber men in terms of voting is probably a good indication of whether or not any woman who wants to lead this country or demonstrates the capacity to lead, a good measure would be to see how she can bring that voting group to support her. That is going to be the basis of any female leader in this country.... Because as a gender we tend to probably be our own worst enemy sometimes in terms of support for each other.

Overall though, I must say, even in my ascent to the Deputy Leadership of our party, it was in fact the voting of women that determined that they were going to stick together. Clearly when women make up their minds to do something we are invincible. And I think that is what it’s going to take moving forward if the country is going to see any type of shift in gender of the leader of our country.

I don’t want to make any projections to when I think that may happen. But I think that certainly it is something that will evolve, just as women are rising in so many other categories.

I think that’s something that will evolve. I do not believe that it’s something that a person should wake up and say, ‘I want’. I think this is something that ought to be a process where the people want you, and if that happens then the woman who happens to be there and demonstrate in that capacity, will perhaps be the first female Prime Minister.

On Her Duties NW: Deputy Chairperson, Deputy Leader of the FNM, what does that entail?

Loretta Butler-Turner: I am Deputy Leader. It entails the same thing as what the Deputy Leader of any other political party entails. It’s certainly a heartbeat away from being the leader of a political party. One must be willing, able and prepared should something occur.

The leader may have to take a break, walk away from the job for a period to carry on. Or you know, God forbid, if something should happen to the leader, the Deputy Leader has got to be able to step up to the plate and carry that organization forward.

For me it’s a privilege once again when I hearken back to this whole philosophy of ‘walking to the beat of my own drummer’. I think that throughout my life, I have pretty much gone against the tradition: in coming into a business that was dominated by males, being the first female to become a qualified mortician in the Bahamas. I’ve gone against tradition. I’ve gone against the tradition of my family by not staying in the political party of my fore bearers, by becoming an FNM. I think that walking in the footsteps of a Janet Bostwick, a trailblazer in bringing women into the forefront in all political parties; and I’ve now been able to stand on her shoulders, trail blazed to the second highest position in the party. It’s not something I did on my own, it’s something that was prepared by others, but it allowed me to blaze this trail forward, and so 28 it’snuwomanmagazine.com a wonderful, wonderful opportunity to

have people believing in you and being able to support you; and I thank God for the support of others.

NW: I’m sure you have answered this question but I’ll ask it again. This issue is about ‘celebrating women’; tell me some of the women who you have celebrated in your life, who has had the greatest affect in your life.

LBT: Well first of all I’ve got to tell you, the most important women in my life have been the women in my family: my mother and my grandmother. All of these women have demonstrated to me how to be a mother, a wife, a daughter and of course to be a leader.

So first and foremost those are the people who have affected me most profoundly.

From a professional standpoint, once again, my family has instilled so many good values of industry and hard work. Politically, I look at great people like Janet Bostwick, Silvia Scriven and those who have gone on before me, who have shown me how to conduct myself as a politician. Theresa Moxey Ingraham, those women have been my mentor, many of them still mentor me today, and so in that regard, I must say that they have been the ones that have helped me a lot.

The women that pray for me everyday, that call me, that encourage me, they are women that I look up to and the everyday woman on the street that comes to me and shares her personal story with me. They make me stronger, they make me realize what it is that I am fighting for. And exactly what it is that we need to do as women of the Bahamas and certainly as women of the world.

On Equal Rights for Bahamian Women NW: Where are we as women of the Bahamas in terms of equal rights? For example, I’m a Bahamian woman, I marry a foreigner and we have a child, my child will not be eligible for Bahamian citizenship for years and years, whereas, a Bahamian man marries a foreign woman they have a child, his child is considered a Bahamian.

LBT: Okay let’s look at it. When the constitution of the Bahamas was framed in the 1970s prior to our Independence, the framers of the constitution determined that a married Bahamian woman, her children should take the nationality of the father. That means if the father is Bahamian, then the children are Bahamian, if the father is a foreigner, then the children are also foreigners. That is a constitutional constraint for women.

It discriminates against our women and of course our children. It does not allow our children to be full participants in the society of their mothers, which is the Bahamas. Where are we?

In terms of making strides, I am very proud to say that I have been a part of an administration that have been very, very progressive in putting females forward to insure that we reach the level of equality that women in all progressive countries enjoy around the world.

Unfortunately, the amendment of 2002 that

was put forth by the Ingraham administration was probably, how should I put this? Was probably confused by the opposition party, in my estimation, in my opinion, and it cloudied and muddled the waters so much that the Bahamians determined that this was not something we wanted for ourselves. The current administration led by Christie is talking much about bringing that referendum back to the people.

Where do we stand as a nation and where do I stand as a woman? I fully support this because I have sisters, I have relatives who are married to foreign men who live abroad, whose children today come to the Bahamas as mere visitors, whereas my brother, for example, can marry a foreign woman and his child is a full-fledged Bahamian, I have a difficulty with that. I think that certainly any amendment by anybody coming forward should not be opposed.

We have got to insure that women who make up 50% or more of our population are enjoying the same rights as the other 50%. And another thing that many people may not take under consideration, even though we as women make up more than 50% of the population, we are the ones that brought the other 50% here to being. So why are we not enjoying half of the benefits of the country? I think that is the question we need to ask ourselves. Until we answer that in the affirmative and do what is right by our women and our daughters we will continue to be considered unequal in our country.

About Her Life Lessons and What She Would Like To Be Remembered For. NW: What has been your most humbling lesson?

Loretta Butler-Turner: Ah boy I’ve had so many of those. Those are the ones you always regret. I don’t know which one it should be. I won’t say that it’s my most humbling, but it’s certainly one of the most humbling, is going into the recent election and having been a part of a government, and realizing that no matter what you have done or what you attempted to do, that people can determine what your fate would be, in terms of whether or not they want you to continue to lead them. I think that has given me a great sense of humility. That has certainly demonstrated that there is nothing that one should ever take for granted, and that it is always a privilege to be able to serve. And when people wish to take that privilege away from you, it’s their prerogative. I think that that is an amazing life lesson. And for me I fully, fully appreciated that I had the opportunity to serve, but I also respect the wishes of those who determine what your future would be. I think for me that is an amazing life lesson.

NW: Last question. What do you want to be remembered for?

Loretta Butler-Turner: Truly, I would like to be remembered as a person who truly tried to give the best to the people that she loves most, her Bahamian people. I think once you have given the best of your service there is no more you can give. That is what I would like to be remembered for. That I did the best I could.

5-year Anniversary 29

By Latha Jayakumar Nassau, The Bahamas - May 11, 2012 Excitement was a buzz and anticipation was thick in the air as fashion forward guests arrived from all around the globe to attend the Islands of the World Fashion Showcase. Crisp white lifeguard chairs flanked the runway setting an elegant beachy mood for one of the most electrifying fashion events of the season.

The Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort’s ballroom was packed with fashion lovers eager to witness the newest breakthroughs and hot trends blossoming from the islands. The Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago were represented amongst the 11 talented designers who unveiled their collections at the event. Everything from sexy swimwear, asymmetrical and bedazzled resort wear to fabulous handbags and detailed jewelry graced the runway.

The designer lineup included David Rolle, Theodore Sealy, Harl Taylor BAG, Chelsea Johnson, Courtney McIntosh and Derrica Williamson all representing The Bahamas, Alexis Campbell and Kesia Estwick of Barbados, Carol Fraser of Guyana, Sharleen Lagon representing Saint Lucia and Darcel de Vlugt from Trinidad & Tobago. Each designer brought something fresh and fabulous to the runway with inspirations coming from everyday island flora to various genres, countries and time periods in history. The collections contained uniquely individual pieces that tied together in a magnificent and eye catching way.

Apart from the spectacular work of the fashion designers, the showcase also paid tribute to the late iconic Bahamian architect, Jackson Burnside III through the Jackson Burnside 30 nuwomanmagazine.com

III Fashion & Design award. Inventive concepts were used by the participants, Architect Val Pintard, designer Apryl Burrows, interior designer Elizabeth Clarke and draftsman Reuno Pratt, to create a wearable garment made out of non conventional materials. The entries were innovative with some using straw, shells and even vinyl in the design to echo Jackson Burnsides architectural style.

Silk and Steel dance troupe set the tone for the night when they took the stage with an incredibly high energy vibrant acrobatic dance performance which included ladies in feathered carnival inspired outfits and buff men in simple black garments.

This was followed by performances by Bahamian artists, Shaton and Zee whose vocal talents accompanied a male lingerie spectacle that surly raised the temperature in the room and caught the attention of every lady present. The toned and well defined male models wore underwear from international couture lingerie houses CoutureBoy and Lee Greggory. The men’s swimwear and underwear companies showcased fitted briefs in various color combinations. Nu Women Model Search contestant, Drew Palacious admitted to getting in a quick workout just before the show, to get some last minute definition and tone, expressing that “this [was] the biggest show [he has] ever walked in and the energy here [was] great!”

Jaeylu INC from St. Lucia featured a collection inspired by a brilliant mix of French Creole and oriental fashion. Designer Sharleen Lagon stated that “the idea came from a contest I posted on our Facebook page. We asked our fans what would be inspiration for a great show and we designed from that French/oriental suggestion”. The garments embodied femininity and clearly showed the diverse cultural influences. The unique opening piece was worn my Nu Woman Model Search Season top finalist, Tomii Culmer and it truly showed the line’s

unique mix of the two very distinct cultures setting the tone for the following pieces consisting mainly of black silk-like material designed with Kimono or Chinese traditional styles with accents of Mandarin collars in French Creole colors.

Bahamian jewelry designer Chelsea Johnson debut her jewelry line Autumn Crop which has recently been sold at the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism’s Bay Street Festival on Grand Bahamas Island.

The collection consisted of bold and colorful designs which stood out beautifully against the models flawless skin.

Top: Nu Woman’s Model Search Season 1 top finalist, Tomi Culmer wearing a Jaeylu INC, long sleeve black frill dress with green, yellow and red detailing by Sharleen lagon of St. Lucia.

Bottom right: Ms. Beverly Taylor (center) accepting the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award on behalf of the Harl Taylor Bag line with Nu Woman Contestant and model, Drew Palacious (to her right) holding an intricately beaded luxury Harl Taylor Bag. The award was presented by IWFS Coordinator Owen Bethel (gray shirt) and event judge Dr. Andrew Burnstein (white suit)

5-year Anniversary 31

Zatthu INC, a Bahamian line, walked the runway showing off luxe swim and resort wear in a style of ‘Bohemian Glamour’. The line by designer, Courtney McIntosh consisted of clothing for both men and women which could be considered risqué but compliments the wearer’s body in unique ways. The designer used funky shimmery fabrics, sparkles and swimsuit materials that made the models stand out with the daring cuts and well thought out color combos.

Carol Alexis Fraser of Miracle Hands Designs, from Guyana brought her well-designed garments to the IWFS stage. Her collection was inspired by the natural flora of Guyana emulating the look of banana leaves and island flowers while playing with bold cutaways exposing skin beneath for women and outfitting the men in African style kaftans.

Adele 13 showcased their line of knitted and uniquely wearable crocheted swimwear for men and women along with coordinating cover-ups. The garments varied in colors but held a common theme through styling and design.

Keisa Eastwick from Barbados was a crowd favorite due to her dedication to detail and eye for design. Her garments wowed the crowd as many of her looks were fashionable on the runway and could easily be adjusted and worn for a distinctive look for any special event off the runway. Geometric shapes and curves were strategically placed over the outfits in an attempt to guide the eye from the model’s head to toes. The collection she presented is entitled ‘Heather’ which she named to represent a “strong independent woman”, in honor of her mother. The memorable pieces conveyed the image of a beautiful woman who is fearless; with flowing silhouettes and bold details that tied everything together.

The La Roma Collection created by Alexis Campbell of Barbados was inspired by Greek culture and Egyptian style. This hybrid of styles created a warrior goddess look with the garments soft light chiffon elements balanced by hard dark leather. The mixing of the delicate and the durable was eye catching and could translate easily off the runway into reality for an edgy fashionista.

David Rolle of Nassau, Bahamas presented his line, House of Raphelita with complete showmanship. The story that Rolle created to accompany his presentation was centered on capital punishment and featured garments constructed of orange lace, black mesh bags placed over the models heads and elevated Lady Gaga-esque boots. Rolle said that he felt the need to design his collection in such a manner to draw attention to capital punishment, stating that he does not believe in capital punishment, but rather in forgiveness as “killing one person, that has killed another, only makes the punisher a murderer too”.

Harl Taylor BAG of The Bahamas was the only designer handbag company to showcase at this event. No other company could have brought such emotion and fantasy into a presentation on a runway in regards to handbags. The Harl Taylor designs were breathtakingly beautiful, detailed woven bags that were walked down the runway by models in white Egyptian-style cloth wraps.

Mrs. Beverly Taylor, who runs the line which was started by her now deceased son, Harl Taylor said that her son “was very talented” and is ecstatic that she can “now I continue to show his talents to the world”. Harl Taylor Bags have been sold in high-end department stores in the United States and are owned by celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Kimora Lee Simmons. Each bag is a woven masterpiece complete with luxurious linings, detailed wood appliqués and beading.

Van der Vlugt by Darcel de Vlugt of Trinidad and Tobago featured whimsical cuts and unique designs. The styles were playful, yet elegant and the collection had a classic feel by cut, but modern elements such as, plunging necklines, bold bright patterns, and above the knee hemlines.

Theodore Elyett

Alexis Campbell

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Keisha Estwick

The show was closed out by Bahamian designer, Theodore Elyett, who is a IWFS award veteran and also a designer whose bold and beautiful designs have been featured on the cover of Nu Woman Magazine. The collection he presented at this event used a neutral color pallet and modern or classic designs, showing a clear fashion evolution of the young designer’s taste that has perhaps been influenced by his recent time spent in New York studying at Parsons School of Fashion, as a result of winning IWFS last year. The line was composed of well-constructed, elegant, wearable garments that draped beautifully on the models conveying a tailored and sophisticated look.

The following evening a closing reception with V.I.P dinner was hosted at Blu Restaurant in Nassau where guests dined on fine foods and enjoyed flowing champagne. Model and Nu Woman Model search season 1 top finalist, Tomii Culmer expressed her appreciation for the event stating that “the show was so much fun, I am happy for the opportunity to walk for 10 of the designers and now that it is over I am looking forward to socialize, network and relax at the after party.”

Four participants took home awards for their presentations from the night before. The Jackson Burnside III Award went to Elizabeth Clarke and Bruno Pratt for their innovative creation. Harl Taylor BAG won the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award for its extensive use of sustainable straw. Ms. Beverly Taylor of Harl Taylor Bags said she was honored to have received an award on behalf of the line. She expressed that “Harl would be very proud to see this and see that the line is continuing on strong”. The Culture and Fashion Award was won by David Rolle from the House of Raphelita for his provocative designs and memorable prison theme. Rolle was relieved to see that the risks he took on the runway paid off stating “I am glad that they liked my pieces and concept”. The coveted NextGen Designer award went to Courtney McIntosh for her well designed and form complimenting swimwear.

Islands of the Worlds Fashion showcase was a fabulous and successful event that allowed Island-based designers to get noticed. The fashion industry of the Caribbean and surrounding areas is growing and it is easy to predict that many of the designers that showcased here will become big names in the fashion world. The May 2012 show has set the bar high for the November showcase which will feature designer couture, pret-a-porter and casual wear and accessories. The fashion world is surely eager to see the new ideas and new faces that will make their mark on the fashion world come November.

5-year Anniversary 33

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Designer. Darcel de Vlugt Shoes provided by CIAMONET

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Designer. Darcel de Vlugt Shoes provided by CIAMONET

5-year Anniversary 37

Designer. Darcel de Vlugt

5-year Anniversary 39

Designer. Darcel de Vlugt

5-year Anniversary 41

Exciting news for anyone who is looking to lift, tighten and tone skin Bahamas Plastic Surgery, located Commonwealth house, East Ave. in Centreville, Nassau, has long been known as a leader in the business of beauty in the Bahamas.

Providing state-of-the-art procedures for the last 12 years, Dr. Neil and his team at Bahamas Plastic Surgery gave us such treatments as Botox, Laser hair removal, Injectable fillers, and laser treatment for varicose veins.

“This new technology is what we have been waiting for...real results without the downtime”, says Dr. Neil.

It’s been featured on national television shows such as Rachael Ray, The View and The Doctors. It’s been touted by big-name beauty editors from Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Shape and more…

It’s Ultherapy! A non-surgical treatment of the face that uses ultrasound to actually lift and tone loose skin without any downtime and it’s offered here, in Nassau, at Bahamas Plastic Surgery.

Ultherapy uses Ultrasound?

That’s right! Ultherapy is the only cosmetic procedure to use ultrasound imaging, which allows us to actually see the layers of tissue we target during the treatment, to ensure that the energy is delivered precisely to where it will be most effective.

Leveraging this tried-and-true technology, we can specifically target the deep foundation below the skin – the one typically addressed in cosmetic surgery – without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. That means after a short non-invasive treatment, you’ll be able to return to your everyday life without interruptions and, without hiding behind those “post-treatment” glasses or scarves.

Ultherapy Creates Collagen Naturally

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Ultherapy is so unique because it “banks” your collagen by jumpstarting a repair process. It relies on the body’s own regenerative process to stimulate the natural renewal of existing collagen and creation of new collagen – yes, new collagen. This results in an actual lift of skin overtime – and just better-fitting skin.

Many people notice an immediate effect following the treatment, but the ultimate lifting and toning takes place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is renewed and replaced with new,

stronger collagen. Additionally, as this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can even appear up to 6 months following a procedure!

Ultherapy – an Uplift not a Facelift Ultherapy is a non-surgical option for people with mild to moderate skin laxity – those who want some lifting for skin that has lost elasticity, but are not ready for surgery which requires downtime and a recovery period. It’s also a great option for those who want to “stay ahead of the game”, as well as those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.

Ultherapy may cause some discomfort while the energy is being delivered, but it is temporary and a positive signal that the collagenbuilding process has been initiated. Of course, we offer a number of options to help make your Ultherapy treatment as comfortable as possible. Our patients, who’ve had Ultherapy, typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!

Ask us if Ultherapy is right for you!

If you’re looking for a lift to counter the effects that gravity takes over time, it may be just the treatment you’ve been waiting for.

For more information please contact us at Bahamas Plastic Surgery (242) 356 -3189 or email gcneil@yahoo.com

5-year Anniversary 43

Kamela and I ran into each other at the Double Crown Miss Bahamas Pageant where she sat on the panel as one of the judges.

We met up after the pageant and soon got into a conversation as she had been one of the persons on my list to interview. I also discovered that she had wanted to meet with me, so this put a smile on my face.

We got into an easy conversation and she asked me about the magazine and we subsequently starting talking about Nu Face Model Search, one of the reality shows produced by Nu Woman. She wanted to know how she could help and we exchanged numbers with the hopes of catching up as she was headed right back to New York. I had done some research on Kamela and knew that I wanted a story with her.

Kamela was born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas and has been enjoying a successful career as a professional model for the past 11 years. Prior to runway she attended College of the Bahamas and then continued her studies in North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she obtained her Bachelors in Business Administration.

In 2001, she accepted a job to tour with Ebony Fashion Fair troop and for 9 months participated in 189 runway shows across America, Canada and the Bahamas.

She had been featured in numerous magazines: Ebony, Essence and O magazine; and I was going to do a feature with her in Nu Woman.

We had initially agreed on To get the latest updates on Kamela’s modeling career, follow her on twitter @ kamelaforbes and like her on Facebook. com/KamelaForbes.

a feature story but worked our way up to a cover.

I had given her basically a little over a week to deliver, and Kamela along with photographer Jason Mickle and her team delivered not only a cover shot, but video clips, behind the scene photos and a great deal more.

Here is cover girl Kamela Forbes’ Interview with Nu Woman Magazine; it was a great pleasure working with her.

Nu Woman: How did you get into modeling?

Kamela: My sister Keejo who was the girly girl of the siblings wanted to model, and as my big sister I wanted to copy everything she did, so my mom enrolled both of us at Yodephy modeling academy. I was such a tomboy back then, and was totally into sports, so that was a 180 degree turn around for me. I never imagined that years later with a business degree under my belt, I would end up choosing modeling as my career path.

NW: In 2001 you accepted a job to tour with Ebony fashion troop, what was that like?

Kamela: Wow, it was quite an experience...

Imagine practically living on a greyhound bus with 11 other female models and only 2 male models, if reality TV was as big as it was back then as it is now, we sure would’ve grossed more than Jersey Shore! But on a serious note, the tour was a mix of everything - a little drama, a little glamour, long road trips, exciting shows, new lifelong friendships and everyday an opportunity to visit somewhere new...all in all, lots of fun!

NW: How did this experience shape your life?

Kamela: When I signed on for the tour, it was supposed to be just a year for me to have some fun and travel before I ventured into the accounting world. However, it gave me the modeling bug and I decided that I wanted my career path to be one in which I never really felt like I was working because I would be having so much fun doing it that I would be amazed that someone was actually paying me to do it!

NW: You have been featured in numerous magazines; Ebony, Essence, O magazine, what do you credit for your success?

Kamela: Perseverance. The modeling industry is tough, and there are lots of doors that get slammed in your face, and agents telling you you’re too this or too that, or just not what they’re looking for, but I’ve always been strong willed and I know that whatever I set my mind to, I will succeed at.

NW: What are you doing nowadays?

Kamela: Currently, I have a Tiffany & Co. Rubedo Collection campaign running, I’m the face of a new yoga/loungewear line called Linkd, and just completed shooting an Ad for Nikon cameras. I regularly shoot catalogue and e-commerce for brands such as Target and Sears and my latest editorial in the September issue of O (Oprah) magazine is currently on stands. I’m also in the process of shooting the season finale of Project Runway that culminates at NY fashion week.

In the little free time I have, I am also helping to launch a new membership based concierge and lifestyle management company called Inner Circle Connect.

NW: What advice can you offer to up and coming models? Kamela: I would strongly recommend models trying to find agencies to go to the open calls or if possible make an appointment and try to see the agents in person as opposed to sending pictures. Be confident and never take rejection personal, remember when one door closes another always opens, and always stick to your morals. The modeling industry is tough and only your morals will ground you.

NW: Is a Kamela Forbes modeling agency in the works; what are your future goals?

Kamela: No, not at this time. My focus is scouting talent, getting them ready for the business, and placing them with existing agencies around the world. My future goals are to launch a clothing and accessory line.

NW: Anything planned locally in the future?

Kamela: Yes, I would love to discover models in The Bahamas who I think have the potential to work on an international level, so I am planning scouting activities here in the upcoming months.

Also, I plan to give back by getting involved with some local charities.

Credits: Photographer: Jason Mickle; Stylist: Sandrine Fouilhoux; Hair: Stanley DeVaughn; Makeup: Lauren Whitworth; Interior Shot: Swimwear ColeFacts by Michelle Cole, colefactsgy.com; Red fascinator by Giovannio; Earrings and cuff by AMI Clubwear, AMIclubwear.com

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Terrel Major & MAJOR Changes Rehab Centre

T

errell Major is a proud graduate of St. Anne’s School in Nassau, Bahamas and was inspired to embrace his chosen field of study and to think outside of the box at the same time. As such, he elected to pursue Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, but not at just any institution, but rather at the Ciego de Avila in Cuba where he was immersed in the Spanish language and the Latin culture.

He left the Bahamas for Cuba and was not intimidated by being the only English-speaking person at his University, Facultad de Ciencias Medicas, Ciego de Avila, Cuba. He remained in Cuba for eight years as he studied and faithfully served his beloved Commonwealth of the Bahamas by translating for the Bahamian Ambassador to Cuba.

Terrell who is fully fluent in Spanish and is also proficient in Portuguese has worked along with the Cuban National Team as their Physical Therapist and supported them as they travelled to various countries.

His natural concern for the well-being of others has fostered his commitment to his profession. He insists on going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that as he cares for his patients as he also cares for the whole man. This ideology and his visionary thinking prompted him to impact the lives of all he comes in contact with by making Major Changes in their lives and in March, 2012, he opened his own Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Clinic, rightfully named, Major

Changes Rehabilitation Centre.

Email: majorchangesrehab@gmail.com

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3 Vegetarian Recipes

By Jodi McWilliams

Summer Berry Salad (Vegan Dish) Serves 2 Strawberry Vinaigrette ½ cup Strawberries 1/4 cup Olive Oil 2 tbsp. water 1 tbsp. Vinegar 1 tsp. Sugar Salt Salad ½ head of Iceberg Lettuce or 2 cups of Spinach 1 head Romaine Lettuce ¼ cup Slivered (thinly slice) Almonds or Toasted Pecans 2 oz. Dried Strawberries (Can be substituted with dried cranberries or pomegranates) 1. In a blender, combine strawberries, sugar and vinegar. Blend on low for five seconds.

2. While blender is on lowest speed, open the cap and very slowly, drizzle in olive oil. This should take 30 seconds.

3. Add one dash of salt sparingly to correct seasoning. Set aside.

4. In a salad bowl, combine all other ingredients. In a serving bowl, pour dressing down the bottom of the bowl, covering with salad. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. When ready to serve, toss salad so that it becomes coated with dressing.

Note: Pouring dressing at the bottom of bowl instead of over salad until ready to serve will stop the acid in the dressing from making salad mushy.

Moroccan Vegetarian Stew and Couscous (Vegan Dish) Serves 2 1 ½ cup Couscous 2 med. Carrots (peeled and chopped) 2 Shallots (peeled and quartered) 1 tsp. Cinnamon 1 tsp. Cumin 1 Red Pepper (cubed) 1 large Tomato (peeled, seeded and chopped) 1 (8 oz.) can Chickpeas ½ bunch Cilantro 4 oz. Plain Yogurt 1 ½ cup Vegetable Stock or Water Salt and pepper Chili Pepper (optional) Olive Oil 1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in deep frying pan. Sauté carrots and shallots for one minute. Add cinnamon and cumin and fry until aroma begins to circulate, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

2. Add tomato and bring to a simmer. Place lid on pan and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little water if it becomes dry.

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3. While stew is simmering, bring stock (or water) to a boil. Remove from heat and pour over couscous in a bowl. Cover bowl and fluff after eight minutes. Add a little oil and salt to taste.

4. Stir in chickpeas and heat through. Chop half of the cilantro leaves and add to pan with small chili pepper. Cook for three minutes.

5. Chop remaining cilantro finely.

6. When ready to serve, place couscous in serving plates. Pour stew over, then spoon onto yogurt. Add remaining Cilantro.

Mushroom and Gorgonzola Pasta (Vegetarian Dish) Serves 4 2 oz. Gorgonzola Cheese 12 oz. Penne Pasta 1/2 bag of Spinach (rinse before using) 1 cup Mushrooms (Button or Portobello Mushrooms) medium chopped 3 tbsp. Flour 2 tbsp. Butter 2 cups Boiling Milk 2 cloves Garlic ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional garnish) Olive oil Salt and Pepper 1. In a shallow, wide frying pan, add oil and garlic and heat thoroughly for one minute. Add mushrooms and sauté for three minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add spinach but do not stir. Spinach will shrink dramatically in size and release liquid. Set aside once wilted. Drain excess liquid.

3. Cook pasta until al dente (firm but not chewy) and drain. Cover and set aside.

4. In a frying pan, melt butter over low heat. Blend in flour and whisk slowly for about two minutes. Be careful not to let it ‘brown’{colour}. Remove from heat and add boiling milk. Whisk vigorously until well combined and no lumps are present. Place frying pan over low heat and add gorgonzola, stirring slowly for one minute.

5. Combine pasta, mushroom mixture and sauce in pan and heat through for one minute. Correct seasoning if necessary.

6. Serve with grated Parmesan.

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I first had the opportunity to meet Leila Lopes at the Miss Bahamas Double Crown Pageant held this past July at the Atlantis ballroom.

Initially, I had not intended to attend the pageant as I was still in mourning over the loss of my mother, but the fact that Leila was going to be present gave me an added drive to make this event.

I was late in attending the pageant, but was delighted to realize that my seat was just a few feet from the judge’s table and I took glimpses of Leila during the pageant.

A few hours later, I had an opportunity to talk with her one-on-one after the pageant at the social event planned. I really wanted to do an interview right then, but Leila didn’t have a moment to herself as persons were approaching her for photos and to get a moment of her time.

I did notice that she seemed tired but she was graceful and smiled, nodded and posed with various onlookers. I spoke to my long time friend Esther (Director of Talent with the Miss Universe Organization) and we arranged 48 nuwomanmagazine.com

an interview for a few days later via telephone from New York.

Ester was good to her word and connected me to Jackie (PR on the Miss Universe Team) who set up the interview a few days later. I received the telephone call Thursday morning from Jackie, and Leila and I got into conversation immediately. I had been expecting the usual rehearsed answers, but was pleasantly surprised by how honest she was in her responses.

Leila: Hello Erica, how are you?

Erica: Morning Leila, I am all right. I’m so happy you took this opportunity to talk with me. I had sent some questions, did you have an opportunity to look at them. Leila: Yes, I just did.

Erica: Okay, I’ll just start with some basic questions. They probably won’t be in order.

How demanding is your schedule for one thing? Leila: Sometimes it’s very demanding.

I find it very hard especially when doing hair and make-up, attending events, and always

having to be on for everything, always having to be very well presented. Sometimes, it’s very hard to keep up.

Erica: What was winning Miss Universe like for you as an African woman, and what does the title of Miss Universe mean to you? Leila: It’s a big thing. Actually, it’s the first time someone from my country won something internationally. It’s great for me, I put my country on the map, and it’s the second time an African/Black woman has won. Which is also great, empowering African beauty, African women. I can only say that it’s the biggest achievement I’ve had.

Erica: When you entered the pageant did you think that you would win? Leila: I was hoping; I was very hopeful. I thought I could win, with hope always we can do things, with confidence and hope.

Erica: What has this experience taught you so far? Leila: Being Miss Universe has taught me that with education (how can I put this) determination, hope

and respect for everybody, and my platform that we can overcome so many challenges.

But, it’s not easy being Miss Universe. As I have said, my schedule is extremely tight, especially when I’m traveling. I have to have so much assistance in getting this or that done.

Erica: Give us an idea about your schedule, say you’re traveling in a week, how many stops do you make? Leila: Well, it depends. For example, I did tours to Africa - I went to 5 countries in 6 days.

Erica: Wow! Leila: It was really hard.

Sometimes I would spend the night in one country; I would land, do interviews, make an appearance and then leave.

Being on the road can be very stressful. I had to be like always on, always happy, always smiling, always very well presented.

Erica: How do you cope on a daily basis? What do you do to help you relax?

Leila: Well, I don’t know, I try to put in my mind that I have to be strong, I have to focus.

I put on my mind that I want to be more, I want to improve. So I don’t let the stress get to me. I don’t get really sad because at the end of the day, this is my job so I’m very conscious about it.

Erica: Another question, and this is an easy one. What are your hobbies?

Leila: I like going to the movies, I like playing with a friend, going out, clubbing; now it’s hard because of my schedule. I can’t stay out late as there is always something to do in the early morning so I’m afraid to go clubbing late. But for me to spend some time with a friend, I go sometimes just for one hour for a little bit to shake the stress away.

Erica: How important is your work with HIV and AIDS? And I know as a Miss Universe you have certain things that you must do in working with your platform, so how important is that to you?

Leila: For me it’s very important as Miss Angola was doing it already, so I was eager. I had the opportunity to work in every country; I had the opportunity to talk about it . And like before, I used to think small - only in terms of Angola, Africa, when actually, it’s the entire world that needs to be educated. For me, having the opportunity to at least touch somebody’s heart; having somebody hearing what I have to say it’s very important to me.

I volunteer with organizations; I’ve done an HIV and AIDS public test to encourage people to do it. It wasn’t easy, even though I know I protect myself, but it wasn’t easy to do the public test, it wasn’t easy at all. But I wanted to show people that this was the best way we can have healthier lives by knowing our status.

Erica: I read that you would like to open up a cosmetics company in Angola after your reign. Tell us a little bit more about this.

Leila: Yes, unfortunately in Angola, we have to import everything., every single thing, from Brazil, from Portugal, from South Africa. With my time in New York, I’ve met a lot of people, most of them are experts in one field or another. I’m in the beauty world so I’m exposed to this crowd, and I’m very interested in this. Angolan women really love make-up, and I like to see women taking care of themselves. So for me it would be a great opportunity to contribute to my country; to have it for lower prices. It’s so expensive when you have to import everything.

Erica: What advice would you offer any young lady who wants to pursue the title of Miss Universe? What advice can you give them from your experience?

Leila: When I decided to compete for Miss Angola, a lot of people told me that I was just a pretty girl, that I didn’t have the confidence, a lot of people thought that they knew it all.

But, I was confident and I felt that I could do it. So my advice for every girl is that if you have this in your heart and feel like you can do it, just go for it, just go for it. At least give it a try. It doesn’t matter if you are going to lose or win, just give it a try. Don’t give up.

Erica: What is the one thing that you would like people to remember about you and your reign as a Miss Universe?

Leila: I don’t know, I don’t feel as if I’m done, even after I’ve finished my reign, I’ll continue to do all the charity work that I’ve been doing because I really enjoy it. I really enjoy helping people, so I want to be remembered as a person who cares about others. Like I’m always trying to make people feel comfortable (laughter) This question makes me feel sad, it’s like I’m almost done.

Erica: Well even though you are almost done with your reign, you want to continue doing what you have been doing, so that’s a good thing and this is just a beginning for you.

Has the experience been all you thought it would be?

Leila: Nope (laughter). No, no, not at all.

One thing that I always say, it doesn’t matter.

Former Miss Universe could come to me and say, Leila, when you win it will be like this; it’s different, we all experience things in a different way. It’s impossible for all of us to think the same, to take it all the same. For me I like traveling, and now it’s like traveling ALL the time. I like going to events, but now it’s like going to events ALL the time. And sometimes I just don’t feel like

doing anything at all, but you have to, you have to, you have to.

The world is there like (how can I say) waiting for you. The pressure; it’s a lot of things going on at the same time. So this was something that I wasn’t prepared for. I don’t think anybody was, so I can’t say that it was everything I was expecting it to be, it’s way different. It’s good, and I have like good and bad moments. The good moments are really good, but the bad moments are really bad.

Erica: What are some of the things that you would like to take from this experience?

What can you take back to this into everyday life?

Leila: I wasn’t too good working with pressure; I was really, really bad, when it came to working with pressure. There were some things that I was not sure I was able to accomplish, to attack, like university. But now, I know that I have to, it’s a must.

Erica: So you are going back to school after this?

Leila: Yes, I will and I’ll be a pro, because now I’m ready for everything. This title, O my God, it’s crazy. It’s not just a job, it’s a school for life. It teaches everything that life has to teach.

Erica: I think that is all the questions I had lined up for you and I truly appreciate you taking the time to talk to me Leila.

Leila: Thank you Erica Erica: Thank you so much Leila.

Miss Universe Organization / Photographer: Fadil Berisha

Erica: What do you love most about your country? Leila: My people, I love them so much.

Erica: What do you love specifically about your people?

Leila: They are very happy, very hopeful - I would say that they are. We were in a war for more than 30 years and we never gave up.

We were still believing that things could get better for our country, and after 33 years, it got better and now we are rebuilding the country.

So that’s what I like most about my country, the people, because the people, they are the ones that make the country a great place.

5-year Anniversary 49

Some years ago I read The Portable Coach by Thomas J. Leonard the father of personal coaching and the founder of Coach University. In it, this pioneer shares a perspective on “becoming incredibly selfish” that is quite interesting and different from what I know of being selfish - defined by Webster Dictionary as “caring unduly or supremely for oneself; regarding one’s own comfort, advantage, etc., in disregard, or at the expense of, that of others”.

The Author, being the Master Coach that he was, challenged readers to “be incredibly selfish” adding that we are most creative and excellent when we take care of ourselves first; we are to put forth the purest kind of focus and concentration possible by answering the callings of our heart and mind before answering the callings of our family, friends and colleagues. To illustrate its positive attributes we re-frame the word selfish and refer to it as “put on your oxygen mask first.”

My understanding of this perspective is anchored in my air travel experience. If you travel much by plane, you have probably heard the flight attendant say: “In the event of a change in cabin pressure, panels above your head will open revealing oxygen masks. Pull the mask down toward you to activate the flow of oxygen. Cover your nose and mouth with the mask. Place the elastic band around your head and continue to breathe normally. Remember to secure your own mask before assisting others.”

Imagine the oxygen masks are released, the airplane rapidly descends, the cabin pressure is reduced, toxic fumes fill the cabin as the mother reaches up, places the oxygen mask on her child, within 5 seconds, the mother struggles to breathe, feels disoriented, gasps for air and loses consciousness. You can complete the imagery as to how this story might end.

Putting on your oxygen mask first allows you to meet your own unique needs, to nourish, replenish, feed, revive, reinvigorate, satisfy, renew, refresh, re-fill, renew, sustain and strengthen yourself. In doing so, you are prepared and equipped to serve and provide for others at home and at work. You are healthy, whole and fulfilled.

What would it be like if you made it your priority to put you first, second only to God in order to be spiritually, emotionally, intellectually and physically available to others?

Here are a few practical ways in which you can put yourself 50 nuwomanmagazine.com

first (consider, adapt and implement as desired): • Step away from everything, isolate yourself, limit face to face interactions and if possible take a sabbatical from all types of tech-communication or social media. This puts you in a state to receive and not to give, having no power, nor ability to extend yourself.

• Take short periodic breaks to nap, breathe, stretch, see a change of scenery, eat a meal or experience a get-a-away trip.

Take a break from the normal routine and leave less critical items and other people’s demands pending until your hiatus has ended.

• Walk away from projects, places, positions, people or situations to focus on something more vibrant, passionate, meaningful and restorative to you. You are able to tap into what ignite, inspires, nourishes and refreshes you.

• If you are not willing or equipped to address a challenge or meet a need at work and at home refer or delegate to a colleague, family or friend. Indulge in the liberty to rely on and trust in others.

• Treat yourself to something that brings you joy and delight. Have a spa moment, take in a movie, indulge in your favorite dessert or purchase an item just for you. Warning! Don’t wait for others to organize a party for you, get your own party started.

• Focus on your personal and professional development.

Learn and discover something new, expand your mind and skills, enhance your character and personality, satisfy your curiosity, sharpen your outlook and explore the unknown.

• Purge your mind and soul. Journal, reflect, meditate, pray and share your thoughts, hopes, dreams and goals with a trusted friend, mentor or life coach.

• Experience an introspective activity or retreat to evaluate your position and stage in life, capture a renewed vision of the life you ideally want to live and set goals to transition from where you are to where you see yourself being.

• Free yourself of other people’s opinions and expectations of you. Illustrate and follow your own life map. Check in with your goals to measure your progress, eliminate the need for public applause and feedback.

These life coaching tips promote and encourage individual balance, focus and meaning. They are not the be-all and endall; they are not hard and fast to any standard or degree; they are what helped to enlighten and reposition me. Exact outcomes are never guaranteed at the start of any process, but know this “once you commit the universe will conspire to assist you.”

If you are having trouble with the semantics of putting yourself first, perhaps you can benefit from a focus + meaning coaching session to help you make you your priority.

E-mail us TODAY: coaching@yourdialogues.com or visit us atwww.yourdialogues.com Kaylus Horton-Adams, a Certified Path Coach is the Founder of Dialogues; a company that facilitates learning and discovery for clarity, focus and direction in lives and in businesses. For more information about how Kaylus and how coaching can benefit you click into www.yourdialogues.com. Kaylus is married to D. Levar Adams, and the couple resides in New Providence, The Bahamas.

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NATASHA BROWN

Fitness and Wellness Coach & Competitor

By Felicity Ingraham

N

atasha Brown embodies the spirit of Nu Woman, as she has found a way to overcome each challenge in her life and turn it into an opportunity. Natasha is a respected Bahamian athlete who, although still pursuing sporting ambitions, is committed to transforming her country into a more health, fitness and wellness-conscious nation.

Natasha has been battling the odds throughout her career, an attribute that was noticed by former Minister of Youth, Sports & Culture, the late Hon. Charles Maynard. He called her, “the hardest working woman in the Bahamas”.

She began representing the Bahamas at age 13, making the Carifta team as a high jumper in 1983. The following year, with a distance of 18 feet 1 inch in the long jump, she received the “Most Outstanding 13 to 14 age-group Female Award”, which was presented to her by the former world record holder in the long jump, Bob Beamon. She is also the silver medalist for the women’s triple jump at the Senior Central Caribbean Games in 1999.

During Natasha’s collegiate years, she formed a fitness club and had a steady following of excited members who showed good results for their sporting and personal ambitions. She was working part-time as a nanny for a family in 1999, when she was involved in a car wreck in which her vehicle flipped over five times. The family she cared for, in turn, cared for her - and after seeing her recover from such an accident, they told her that there was a special assignment that God had in her life.

Natasha returned to the Bahamas in 2000 with aspirations to continue to succeed in her sporting and fitness careers. She found that fitness was the only way for her to maintain her competitiveness and to her surprise she became the national fitness champion for 2002 to 2003 and the first and only gold medalist in the tall class fitness category of the CAC Bodybuilding Fitness Championships in 2002. Three years earlier, she had already qualified for the Pan American games in fitness. She is the second Bahamian, but first Bahamian female to have received professional status in the sport of fitness.

Today, she is the proud owner of “Ultimate Fitness & Wellness”, located on Bay Street. Its opening made history and brought together many spectators who wished her well as a young, black, Bahamian, female entrepreneur taking on the big wigs of Downtown, Bay Street) Nassau, Bahamas, which seems fitting for this superwoman, who was dubbed “Downtown Natasha Brown” many years before she ever dreamed she would be operating in Nassau’s prime location. The title was bestowed upon her because of her 52 nuwomanmagazine.com

father’s nickname, which he gained as a basketball star known for taking the ball “downtown” for the score time after time.

For many years she trained under the title of Natbro Studios, but now Natasha wants people to get accustomed to the Ultimate Fitness and Wellness way, which is a holistic approach to health and well-being. Her clients will benefit from more than just routine work-outs. They are being kept abreast of the latest health and fitness information; they are being introduced to new foods - all natural and healthier choices; and they are also benefitting from having time to hone in on the spiritual aspect of themselves. Her training is for anyone who wishes to reach an optimum level of fitness, whether it’s for professional and personal objectives. She hosts boot camps, and just wrapped up a successful summer fitness camp for kids.

“Ever since then I began to walk in my purpose and I have never given up,” she said. “For me to come home and be able to give back to my country, I am so humbled, because it lets me know that there are so many Bahamians who need me”, says Natasha.

“I am humbled, because I think the difference is once you have tapped into the spiritual aspect and God is your source, you then walk fully in your purpose”, she said. “For me, I knew a long time ago that I was walking in my purpose and that is why my struggles have been so great.”

Natasha is now putting plans into motion to focus on women. She wants to show them how fitness will enrich their bodies, their minds, and their lives as well as their families’. She will also be expanding her studio to include more products and services that will allow her to bring the whole picture together for her clients. If they eat well, think well, do well, and live well, then Natasha feels the purpose of Utlimate Fitness and Wellness would be served - not just on a personal level; it is a goal that could help to heal and propel a nation.

Fitness pose title: IFBB Fitness Pro

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Right: Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the late Hon. Charles Maynard officially opened the newest business on Bay Street this week - a fitness studio designed to create “Ultimate Fitness and Wellness”. He took it an honor to open a business right in Downtown, Nassau that is solely owned and operated by a Bahamian woman. Minister Maynard told those gathered that Natasha Brown is “the most determined woman in the Bahamas”, after watching her overcome her trials throughout her sporting career.

Minister Maynard applauded her and noted that it is an excellent attitude for pro athletes to have in a world where sports and fitness can offer a myriad of opportunities. Existing and prospective clients can expect to take part in activities such as bosu training, athletic conditioning, adult boot camp, core training/ pilates, high and low aerobics, trx military band training and much more.

Photography by Felicity Ingraham 54 nuwomanmagazine.com

ULTIMATE FITNESS AND WELLNESS PHONE: 356-2348 EMAIL: ultimatefitnessbahamas@gmail.com BAY AND VICTORIA AVENUE

SHOWING UP + MENTAL TOUGHNESS + CONSISTENCY = RESULTS 4:30am - 6:am - MONDAY - FRIDAY 12:00noon - Midday - MONDAY - FRIDAY 5:15pm - 6:15pm - MONDAY - THURSDAY 6:15pm - 7:15pm - MONDAY - THURSDAY

ULTIMATE CHALLENGE 5:30am - 7:30am (Saturday Mornings)

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Gwendolyn Ritchie, Gail Saunders and Frances Smith are the first three women to be promoted to captain on the National Flag carrier, Bahamasair.

NW: How does your family feel about it? Do you have kids?

Gail: Yes, I’m married with one child; he is twelve years old. They are very supportive, my husband and my son.

Nu Woman saw it fitting to speak with all three of these women on this momentous accomplishment. We caught up with them on separate days and had a chance to do a quick interview.

NW: How do you manage flying with family? What is your schedule like?

Gail: Well, we try to work it out. My husband works shifts as well.

Both of us are usually out to work the same time. My mother helps with getting my son to and from school and whatever activities they have to do. Sometimes my schedule begins early in the morning, 5:30am; the Dash-8 schedule is not as bad as it used to be on the jet. I work mostly nights, and other times I go to work 1 o’clock in the day, or 2 o’clock in the day, and might not get off till 2, 3am the following morning, especially during our peak times. You try to do a little something before you go to work or on your days off.

Gail Saunders Gail has been flying for 26 years and says she originally wanted to be a mechanic.

“I wanted to be a mechanic when I was younger, but my mommy wouldn’t allow it. Shortly after that I started dreaming about being a pilot.”

NW: So how did you get into flying?

Gail: In 1986, I did a private pilot course in Freeport. Soon after, I started searching for schools in South Florida. I attended the flight school at Fort Lauderdale International and then I came back home and rode around for a year or two, then I went to Pelican airways where I obtained my commercial pilot license.

NW: What was your first flight like?

Gail: It was scary because it was a little plane, it was only a tomahawk; a two- seater plane. They are a little lighter, and of course during the summer, it’s turbulent as you fly over the land due to the pockets of heat. Then we had to do special maneuvers so it was very frightening. But I convinced myself, I said that everyone had to go through this at some point and time, and you will get over this. After doing a few of those for a few days, you knew how to handle it, so you were able to recover and you got used to it.

NW: Did you think that you would make it to captain?

Gail: It has always been my hopes. I’ve flown in charter for about 10 years. I flew Aztecs, Normanders, 402’s and I did those all by myself.

NW: So what does it feel like now that you have made it to this position of captain?

Gail: It is a great accomplishment. It came with a lot of blood sweat and tears, but we made it. It wasn’t easy. A lot of training, a lot of studying, but it’s actually more relaxing.

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There are times I might get off 2, 3am in the morning and I have to be up at 7am to get my child to school. You get back home and try to get an hour or two before going to work because you’re not sure when you will be back in the evening.

But the Dash-8 schedule isn’t as bad now, we are normally home by 8 or 9 o’clock at night.

NW: So how many hours would you say you work in a day?

Gail: Well, technically we are only allowed to fly 8 hours. But duty wise the company can only roster us for 10 hours. But we can work up to 14 hours in a day.

NW: How many hours would you say you have logged? Do you keep a log?

Gail: Yes, we do keep a log, I would say that I’ve logged between 11 and 12,000 hours.

NW: Wow!

Frances Smith I introduced myself quickly to Frances, telling her about the magazine and mentioning that Patricia Chatti had given me her information. Patricia was honoring the three female pilots at her “Beauty and Brunch” function and I thought it a great idea to also feature the women.

NW: How long have you been flying?

Frances: I started flying since 1982. I started training from 1982.

NW: Was it always your dream to be a pilot?

Frances: Not really; at the beginning I wanted to become a flight attendant. After getting into high school and discussing careers with my headmaster, Mr. Cartwright, he said ‘Frances why don’t you dream bigger. Instead of being a flight attendant, how about becoming a pilot?’ So I started focusing on that. And I said once I completed school, I would start my training.

NW: So did you start your training right after high school?

Frances: Once I left Long Island in 1980, I moved to Freeport and I started working. I started my training right around 1981. But, of course it was something I did on my own. So I worked, I had to pay bills and when I had extra cash, I put in an hour here and there, so it took me much longer, it took me like seven (7) years to complete all my ratings.

NW: So you were really dedicated to this.

Frances: Right.

NW: Did you always aspire to captain?

Frances: Yes, I knew I would make it one day. I started flying charter, so in that sense I was captain, because I was the only pilot on that plane. But I knew that it would take a long time because Bahamasair is a small company and it would take some time to grow, and it was not expanding as we had expected. I realized that it would take a while, but I knew that it was coming.

NW: So tell me something, what was your first flight like?

Frances: As captain?

NW: No, the very first flight you took.

Frances: It was a wonderful feeling, to finally be in command.

It was a mixture of excitement, to say, “Finally I’m in command here.”

NW: How do you feel now that you have made the rank of captain?

Frances: Oh, that’s a wonderful and humbling experience for me.

NW: How is your family taking it?

Frances: Well, you know, my husband is also a pilot, so I have his support. They are all excited; I’m from a large family, I’m from a family of fourteen., so all of my siblings are all excited and happy for me. They knew where I came from and how I got started, and to finally see this happen, it’s really a fulfillment for all of us.

NW: How do you manage ‘flying with family’?

Frances: Well, I thank God for my husband. I have a very supportive

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husband, so we work together and of course that leaves me to do the night shift. I do the school drop offs and he does the pick-ups, and when I’m off I work with my daughter with homework, and when he is off and I’m working, he deals with the homework.

NW: How many kids do you have?

Frances: I have one daughter; she is 10 years old.

NW: How many hours of flying would you say you have logged?

Frances: Right now, I’m up to about 9,000; well over 9,000 hours.

NW: What have you learnt from all these years of flying; flight school? What advice can you offer?

Frances: Well, I’d like to say to any young woman aspiring to be a pilot to stay focused, and if that’s what you want to do, you must be dedicated. Remember there is always going to be obstacles, and to just stay with it and you will accomplish what you set out to do.

Gwendolyn Ritchie Gwen was the first pilot I happened to speak with and we had initially set up a meeting for a few days later, but when I returned the call for the interview, I found out that she was ‘grounded’ in Orlando, so she ended up being the last one to be interviewed. I called her back a day after she had returned home and wanted to know all the details.

NW: Hello Gwen, how are you? I heard you were grounded in Orlando, what happened?

Gwen: I was going in to Orlando and my windshield cracked, so I had to spend the night.

NW: Oh, wow!

Gwen: It was just one night you know, they had to keep the plane over obviously for maintenance. They sent a new crew to pick it up and we caught the flight home. We got home like Saturday night.

NW: How did you feel during this experience? Did you find out it was cracked after you landed?

Gwen: Actually no, it had started to crack as we started our descent into Orlando.

NW: Ooh. Gwen: And it cracked when we were just coming through like 14,000 feet.

NW: Wow! That must have been kind of scary.

Gwen: Well, it’s just one of those things, you know. Things happen and there is a checklist for everything. So it was just a matter of going through the checklist to make sure the plane was properly secured and getting on the ground as quickly as possible.

NW: Let’s get back to your interview. I was just curious about that event.

Gwen: Fairly uneventful.

NW: So how long have you been flying?

Gwen: I started in ‘89. I have been flying 23 years I guess 58 nuwomanmagazine.com

NW: Wow! Gwen: I’m old.

NW: (laughter) We are all getting older.

NW: How did you get into flying? Have you always wanted to be a pilot?

Gwen: Yes, I did. I grew up on Ragged Island so we never saw very many planes. But at least once a month, the island commissioner and we, called it ‘the flying doctor’ and you know, they had to come once a month to hold clinic and do like legal stuff for the post office, to open the post office, to distribute post mails or pay government workers; stuff like that, so they came once a month.

I remember looking forward to every month for that flight. That was my one chance to kind of see the planes come in. I remember waiting for that every month. Now and again, I would get a chance to look inside the plane and that’s how it started.

NW: That’s a very interesting story.

Gwen: Yeah, as long as I can remember I wanted to fly. It had always been a dream.

NW: How did the actual flying begin? Was it after high school?

Years later?

Gwen: Yes, because at first I couldn’t afford it. Growing up on the island we never had a lot of money. We grew up poor, so there was no way for me to go to flight school. So I went straight to work after I graduated from high school. I saved up enough money to get my first license. I started taking lessons on my days off, that is when I realized it was something I wanted to continue and I had older sisters so with their help I was able to go school. Also, my job was very helpful. They worked with me and when I got off I was able to do some flying and come back home and work some more. So it took like 3 years to complete. I just could not do it in a shorter time.

NW: So what was your first flight like?

Gwen: Oh my gosh, I was terrified. I remembered very clearly, you don’t really know when your instructor is going to cut you loose.

You have to fly with an instructor for a certain amount of hours and once you meet the requirements, he/she also has to feel confident that you can do it by yourself. I remember we went out, and we flew around for a bit. We came back and pulled over and she said, “Ok let me out.”

Right in the middle of the field and I said, “What? Where are you going?”

She said, “It’s time to take your solo.”

I said, “No, not yet, I’m not ready (laughter).”

She said, “Sure you’re ready, you are absolutely ready, so just go.”

I sat there for a minute thinking, “O my God, I’m gonna kill myself.”

But, she said I was ready, so I had to believe in what she was doing, and I went and it was wonderful! And I did not kill myself. I

was initially scared to do it, but once I left her, and I started to do it, I knew what to do, as I had been doing it all along.

NW: How has your promotion affected you? What is it like being one of the first female captains promoted by Bahamasair?

Gwen: We knew it was coming because the way promotions are done it’s based on your seniority and also recommendations from the training captain, so we kind of knew it was coming. We had to make application of course, but once the list came out you kind of knew what was going after that. But actually getting the letter...

I was working and I remember getting off and I saw one of the other guys checking his locker and he had a letter in his hand, so I said, “What’s that?”

He said, “This is the letter, they are awarding the positions.”

have to be flying, if it’s what you want to do, just stay with it. If it’s something you really want to do, don’t push it aside, put it on hold, or let some one else tell you that you can’t do it.

There are only five (5) female pilots in Bahamasair.

Photos by Craig Adderley.

So I went to my locker and opened it and there was a letter inside. I tore it open and it was a letter congratulating me on the position. So, it was exciting. It was like everything that I had been working for, you know? I was finally being rewarded, sort of, for all the hard work I had put into my career. It was exciting, yes.

Gwen is married and has a five year old daughter named Hanna.

When asked how she manages family with the job, this is what she had to say.

“I go to work normally in the afternoon between-- I guess it can be anytime between 11am and evening. Generally, though, I don’t work early mornings, just evenings. I have been doing that for about 10 years. It’s not easy, but my husband also works mornings. So we work it out. My sister and mother-in-law also help with school pick-ups and so on.

It’s not your normal 9 to 5 job and it’s sometimes difficult. My lunch hour may be in Miami or Fort Lauderdale or Abaco, so having the support of a family is amazing. Without them, it would be even more difficult, almost impossible. There is always somebody I can call on to help.”

NW: How many hours do you think you have flown?

Gwen: Oh Gosh, do you mean total?

NW: Yes. Gwen: I’m only guessing, but it’s somewhere around 11,000 maybe; which is not a huge amount.

NW: Well, I don’t know, it sounds like a huge amount.

Gwen: I’m sure it does, but to another pilot it’s not a huge amount. It’s average.

NW: For young women coming up, who want to get into flying, what would be your advice to them?

Gwen: My advice to them would be to just stay with it. If they want it, then don’t give it up. I have absolutely no regrets, even though it was a struggle. If it’s what you want to do, no matter what it is, it does not 5-year Anniversary 59

Caribbean Athletes Shine At The London 2012 Olympics Games. back win in these two events in two different Olympic Games, and has earned the status of legend.

Bahamas’ Chris Brown, Demetrius Pinder, Michael Mathieu and Ramon Miller celebrate after winning the men’s 4x400m relay final at the athletics event of the London 2012 Olympic games. (AFP Photo)

Cuba’s Yarisley Silva took silver in the pole vault. This medal is the first for Cuba in the track and field events, and so far it has garnered 3 gold medals, 3 silvers and one bronze, good for 13th position in the general standings.

Bahamas’ Arianna Vanderpool- Wallace was the first ever Bahamian to make the 50m freestyle finals and 100m freestyle semi-finals.

Leevan Sands was near medal before being knocked out of triple jump by knee injury.

The final day of competition held more surprises.

The Jamaican 4x100m relay team of Usian Bolt, Yohan Blake, Nesta Carter and Michael Frater won the 4x100m bringing with that win a new World Record of 36.84. Big Win! Trinidad received a Bronze medal after Canada was disqualified!

This is the first time that the Bahamas men 4x4 relay team has won a gold medal in these events. Grenada Kirani James won Grenada’s first gold medal in Olympic history in the 400 metre final. The 19 year-old James is the reigning world champion and a two-time NCAA champion for the University of Alabama. He completed the 400 metre in 43.94 seconds. Luguelin Santos of the Dominican Republic received the silver after finishing the 400 meters in 44.46 seconds. He earned his country its second medal of the London Games, Lalonde Gordon of Trinidad and Tobago finished third in the 400, getting a bronze. Felix Sanchez also of the Dominican Republic won gold in the 400 metre hurdles.

The Jamaican 4x100m women relay team won the silver behind the American women’s gold and the new World Record of 40.82 seconds. The Jamaican team of Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce, Sherone Simpson, Veronica Campbell-Brown and Kerron Stewart ran a national record 41.41 seconds.

Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Frazier Price also achieved some personal goals and won gold in the 100 metre finals and silver in the 200 metre finals, the fastest woman alive.

Jamaica took 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the men’s 200 metre finals with Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Warren Weir. Bolt and Blake took gold and silver in the 100 metre finals, the fastest men on the planet. Bolt was the first man to repeat a back-to 60 nuwomanmagazine.com

Earlier that same day 19 year old Keshorn Walcott had an unprecedented win in the men’s javelin, bringing home gold and being the first Trinidadian to win a medal in the this field event, and the first Trinidadian in 60 years (since Halsey Crawford) to win a gold at the Olympics.

Overall, Jamaica 12 medals, Cuba earned 14 medals, Trinidad and Tobago earned 4, Dominican Republic earned 2, and both the Bahamas and Grenada earned a gold medal. This has been the most outstanding

and successful Olympic Games for the Caribbean. Tremendous!!

Felix Sanchez also of the Dominican Republic won gold in the 400 metre hurdles.

Track & Field: 2012 Summer Olympics: (L-R) USA Carmelita Jeter (silver), Jamaica Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (gold), Jamaica Veronica Campbell-Brown (bronze) victorious with medals after Women’s 100M Final at Olympic Stadium. London, United Kingdom 8/5/2012 CREDIT: Robert Beck (Photo by Robert Beck /Sports Illustrated/Getty Images)

Grenada Kirani James won Grenada’s first gold medal in Olympic history in the 400 metre final.

The Jamaican 4x100m relay team of Usian Bolt, Yohan Blake, Nesta Carter and Michael Frater won the 4x100m bringing with that win a new World Record

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Rafael Cennamo Photo by Craig Barritt

Top: : A model walks the runway at the Rafael Cennamo Spring 2013 fashion show during MercedesBenz Fashion Week on September 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz) Bottom left: A model poses at the Todd Snyder Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Dario Cantatore/Getty Images) Bottom right: Supima Spring 2013 fashion show at The Studio at Lincoln Center. Photo by Fernanda Calfat.

Todd Snyder

Supima

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Top right: Designer Kate Wilkoff (R) and models pose on the runway at the Supima Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Studio at Lincoln Center on September 6, 2012 in New York City. (Photo

by Fernanda Calfat).

Bottom left: Designers Christopher Kunz and Nicholas Kunz walk the runway at the Nicholas K Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on on September 6, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Frazer Harrison).

Bottom right: A model walks the runway at the Arise Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Theatre at Lincoln Center on September 6, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano).

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Kate Wilkoff and models for Supima collection.

Nicole Miller

Top right: A model walks the runway at the Nicole Miller Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Fernanda Calfat).

Bottom left: Designer Demi Choonmoo Park walks the runway at the Parkchoonmoo Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Fernanda Calfat).

Bottom right: Designer Tommy Hilfiger walks the runway at the Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Peter Michael Dills).

Tommy Hillfiger 5-year Anniversary 65

Top left: A model walks the runway at the Arise Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Theatre at Lincoln Center on September 6, 2012.

Top right: A model walks the runway at the Elle Fashion | Next Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City.

(Photo by Mike Coppola).

Bottom left: A model walks the runway at the Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012 in New York City.

(Photo by Peter Michael Dills/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz) Bottom right: A model walks the runway at the Rafael Cennamo Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Raphael Cennamo

Tommy Hillfiger

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Top: Models walk the runway at the Ralph Lauren Spring 2013 fashion show during MercedesBenz Fashion Week on September 13, 2012 in New York City. (Photo

by Frazer Harrison ) Bottom: Models walk the runway at the Calvin Klein Collection Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 13, 2012 at 205 West 39th Street in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola)

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