Nu Woman's Vol 18- Spring 2013 issue

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ON THE COVER On the cover- Celeste Marshall Miss Bahamas Universe 2012 Credits : Photographer: Barry Williams Make-Up: Italia Williams. Hair: Devon Hanna.

Styling: Erin Brown. Dress: Phylicia Ellis Cover Design: Amelia J.

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Erica Meus Saunders CREATIVE DIRECTOR Barry Williams COPY EDITOR Tanya Simmons LIFESTYLES EDITOR Leah Larwood CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nasia Colebrooke Chanua Johnson Erica Meus-Saunders Ontahya Ross

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Barry Williams Scharad Lightbourne Mathieu Bitton Calvin French David Wears Pedro Virgill Erica Meus Saunders Chanua Johnson GRAPHIC DESIGN Amelia J Amoury Erica Meus-Saunders Barry Williams MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION Email: info@nuwomanmagazine.com OR nuwomanbs@gmail.com Tel: (242) 676-7908 NU WOMAN MAGAZINE is printed four times a year.

PUBLISHED BY NU WOMAN LTD Freddie Munnings Manor P.O. Box CB 13236 Nassau, Bahamas Web: http://nuwomanmagazine.com Š 2013 Nu Woman Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Online subscriptions are now available, visit us on the web to sign up.

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CONTENTS

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SPRING 2013

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9 Publisher’s Note 10 Contributors

NU PROFILES 19. “Always” By Allia M. Dean 20. Celeste Marshall “Breaking Barriers” 41. Anna Pierre -First Female Caribbean Candidate for Major of North Miami 54. Kendra Beneby-James YOUR WEDDING PLANNER 14. “The Modern Bride”- Tamika Huyler gives a make-over on a Bride-to-be.

18. Seven Ta Seven Trading- supplying fresh flowers daily.

FEATURES

25. Mathieu Bitton Director for Lenny Kravitz’s documentary “Looking Back on Love: Making Black and White America”, talks one on one with Nu Woman 42. Anuschka Wright JAZZ in BLOOM - Jazz vocalist Anuschka hosts her first Full Jazz concert!

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CONTENTS

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FEATURES cont’d 50. Wendy Fitzwilliam ‘The Face’ and Host of Caribbean’s Next Top Model talks with Nu Woman on the show’s first season.

Relationships/Real Life 12. 9 Rules to Keeping Your Online Buddies from becoming Bedroom Buddies

Nu FASHION 30. Color Palettes ‘A Beauty Spread’ by photographer and Creative Director Barry Williams 57. Mission Catwalk Season Three 58. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week MADRID

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Restaurant REVIEW 22. Nu Woman introdues a new section and contributor. Chanua Johnson a writer for Trinidad Reviews gives us our first restaurant review- “Chaud Creole”.

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PUBLISHER’S Note

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pring is here, bringing its vibrant colours and fresh blossoms, and Nu Woman is celebrating in grand style. We begin this issue with stories from around the Caribbean.

Nu Woman talks to Wendy Fitzwilliam the host of Caribbean’s Next Top Model to get details on this hot new spin-off from America’s Next Top Model. We also introduce a new writer from Trinidad, Chanua Johnson, who gives us her first restaurant review ‘Chaud Creole’; and we talk with Anna Pierre the first Caribbean woman to run for mayor of North Miami.

As it is spring we are focusing on spring weddings with a make-over on a bride-to-be by Tamika Huyler from Flawless Facez, along with introducing a store - Seven Ta Seven -that wedding florist and planners would love.

Ontahya Ross gives us some tips on protecting our privacy and ‘keeping our online buddies from becoming bedroom buddies’. Nu Woman also had an opportunity to talk with Jazz vocalist Anuschka Wright, who is hosting her first full Jazz concert in June - ‘Jazz in Bloom’.

Our spring editorial fashion spreads presents two interesting features: Barry Williams gives us “Colour Palettes” - a beauty spread that incorporates everything spring; and Nu Woman gives you a taste of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Madrid!

We hope you enjoy this issue and encourage you to check us out on the web (http://nuwomanmagazine. com) where you can read featured articles and stay abreast on everything Nu Woman!

Cheers!

Erica Meus-Saunders Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Publisher’s photo by Barry Williams

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Contributors

Shooting the beauty spread for this issue was a more laid back and relaxing experience for me this go round. It includes a compilation of beauty work inspired by the artwork of Downtown Nassau over the last year. I have always had an interest in art, particularly sketch and paint work. I think secretly I wanted to be a painter or sketch artist, but photography turned out to be ‘my thing’. So, I took in all that I saw on Bay Street and set out to interpret it in a photo; lots of colors (not limited to makeup) splashed across facial palettes to create what you see in the pages to follow.

Contacts: M: 431-7678 Website: http://barryvwilliams.com

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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

I’m Amelia, a graphic designer with over 5 + years of experience in the field.

I’ve been surrounded by technology my whole life, so it was natural for me to take my creativity and make it digital. I’ve worked in both freelancing and for a number of successful print companies, which has allowed me to polish my skills. I am currently based in Nassau, Bahamas and have a strong focus on print design. To find out more about me you can visit www. ameliajamoury.com to view my portfolio.

21-year-old Nasia Rená (pronounced Naja) is a senior at The College of The Bahamas, studying English Literature. She enjoys reading, creative writing, amateur photography, scary movies and comedies.

Nasia describes herself as a culturist and is proud to be a part of the Caribbean. She believes in the oneness and the uniqueness of Caribbean people and all ‘the flavor’ we have to offer to the world.

She hopes to a part of a more eclectic Bahamas, where the Arts are more appreciated, celebrated, and offered in the job market.

Nasia encourages the youth of the Caribbean to always follow their dreams, no matter how unconventional or “out of the box” they may appear to be. To achieve a better world she says, “we must all be 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

Facebook: AJDesigns • www.ameliajamoury.com

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9 Rules to Keeping Your Online Buddies from becoming Bedroom Buddies Can Twitter, Facebook, and other social media outlets ruin relationships? Are online websites responsible for breaking up happy homes?

In a world where technology rules and more people text, inbox, IM and DM than they actually speak, it’s easy for boundaries to be crossed, and words to be misconstrued. So, here is a guideline to keep your online buddies from becoming bedroom buddies!

Rule #1 Keep Personal Information Personal…

Remember: personal information is personal for a reason. Keep phone numbers, home addresses, and e-mail addresses private. There is no reason why you should be discussing the color of your underwear or your favorite sexual position unless the goal is to make a love connection; in which case you should be on a dating site instead of a social networking site. Limit your conversations to coworkers, friends, business, and networking.

Rule #2 What’s Done In The Dark….

If you have to CONSIOUSLY make sure that all your computers, phones, and other gadgets are password protected at all times in fear of your partner reading or seeing something that may cause a problem in the relationship, that’s a problem. Nothing you’re doing online should ever have to be hidden.

Integrity = Doing the right thing, even if nobody is watching. ~Jim Stovall

Rule #3 No After Hours…

Just like businesses have set hours, so should you. Set your hours and stick to them. Make it a rule to not log onto Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media website after a certain hour.

Think about it: would you telephone someone other than your significant other two or three o’clock in the morning? Same rules apply online.

Same Rules Apply Online As Well As Offline

Rule #4 No Pet Names…

If you refer to your online friends as ‘baby’,’ boo’ or ‘babe’, don’t be surprised when they get the wrong impression. Reserve those names for that special someone in your life. Someone who knows more than just your 12 nuwomanmagazine.com

screen name.

Don’t Be Hoodwinked By A Screen Name and 140 characters.

You Don’t Know Them.

Rule #5 Check Yourself…

As a way of keeping yourself in line, always remember to check yourself.

Ask yourself this: If the situation was reversed, and your partners were to do the same things as you, would you approve? Would you find it appropriate?

Better yet, how would you feel? If the answer is no, then it’s time reevaluate your online behavior.

If You Can’t Respect Yourself, Your Relationship, and Set Boundaries Within The Confines Of Online Space, It’s Only a Matter Of Time Before You’re Disrespecting and Crossing Boundaries In Your Offline Relationships.

Rule #6 Only Inbox When Needed It… Again, keep it public. Your inbox should only be used for information you do not want to share with the public, like a personal email address and phone numbers. By keeping your conversations, posts, tweets, and updates public, you’re less likely to engage in intimate or inappropriate conversations. We tend to let our guard down when we know we are alone and no one is watching, and we tend to be on our best behavior when we know everyone is watching.

When we let our guard down, we become vulnerable. There’s nothing wrong with being vulnerable and letting your guard down, but that’s something that you should be doing with the person you’re in a relationship with, not your online buddies. If you have to use your inbox, limit your activity to exchanging whatever information needs to be exchanged, nothing more nothing less. A lot can go on behind closed doors. By limiting your inbox activity, you’re keeping the window of opportunity shut. You can’t expect someone to respect you, your relationship, your business, or anything else, if you don’t.

People Will Respect Your Boundaries Because YOU Respect Your Boundaries

Rule #7 Make It Known…

block and delete.

If you’re married, single, or in a relationship, let it be known. When you set your relationship status you’re letting people know you’re in a relationship, you respect your relationship, and you’re proud of your relationship.

Letting your status be known, leaves no room for assumptions or wrong impressions. You want people to take you serious. You can’t be taken seriously when you go back and forth from being “single”, to being “in a relationship”, to having it be “complicated” all within a two-week span. So, before you let it known make sure you’re ready to commit to it.

Rule #8

Rule #9 Get Offline…

The world is full of amazing people, both online and offline. Sometimes we can get so wrapped in building, connecting, and networking, that we forget our loved ones. Every now and then, it’s okay to get ‘offline’ and get ‘on life’, and show your loved ones just how much they mean to us.

Always coming from a place of love, ~Life Lessons

Address The Situation…

There are those, who, despite all your best efforts to set boundaries, will always push the boundaries just to see how far they can go. Yes, the world is full of bold people who will continue to pursue, regardless of your relationship status. If this happens, address it, promptly! Not addressing the situation is like saying it’s okay to disrespect my boundaries, my relationship, and me. You cannot set boundaries and then not enforce them. Don’t be afraid to address the situation. Let them know that what they’re doing is inappropriate, and if it continues, don’t be afraid to un-friend, un-follow,

Ontahya is an entrepreneur, and a new, upcoming 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, instagram.com/ontahya as well as facebook.com/ontahya

NEW ELITE MOISTURE

SERUM Adrienne Memmoli, creator of Donald Trump’s Spa line presentsD’va Du [dee-vah-doo] What Is It? D’va Du is a superbly intense, anti-aging moisture-booster serum containing effective ingredients including Hyaluronic Acid, organic whole leaf Aloe Vera, and Vitamins A and E, which all help to stimulate collagen, placing firmness back into the skin.

Who Can Use It? D’va Du, which was formulated to be a single solution serum that would effectively achieve every woman’s desire for a younger, healthier looking complexion, is great for ALL SKIN TYPES. What Does It Do? D’va Due creates a smooth, dewy appearance. It plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can be used as a agent in conjunction with other anti-aging products and treatments.

D’va Du is also a beneficial anti-oxidant. It aids in reducing the appearance of age spots and sun damage by reversing damage

by free-radicals (sun exposure, chemicals and pollutants). D’va Du also reduces sebum production in excessively oily skin, helping to maintain skin’s natural oil balance.

Additionally, D’va Du reduces inflammation caused by Retin-A and laser treatment and reduces dryness and flaking of damaged skin.

How Is It Used?

D’va Du can be applied under any moisturizer, make-up or sunscreen and is fragrance free.

Azhara Health and Beauty is the exclusive distributor for the Caribbean and the North, South and Central Americas.

Azhara Health and Beauty #3A Queen’s Park West, Port of Spain, Trinidad Website: http://www.azharahealthandbeauty.com Email: info@azharahealthandbeauty.com Check us out on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Azhara-Health-and-Beauty/413700652019997?fref=ts 13

Brides of today are no longer afraid to use their imagination to obtain the perfect look on their big day. Whether you choose the traditional bridal look with the use of more neutral tones or follow suit with today’s trends of bold eye shadow and bright lips, the key is to accentuate your best feature while adding a pop of color to spice up your look! Ms. Tamika Huyler of Flawless Facez, completed a make-over on a brideto-be and outlined the process in 5 easy steps with a “flawless” finish:

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1. Preparation: Preparation: On clean skin, apply a moisturizer that suits your skin type (oily, dry, etc.) Allow the moisturizer to dry before applying a foundation primer. This will create a smooth canvas in preparation for foundation. I used oil control lotion by MAC and face primer by BH Cosmetics.

2. Eyebrows: . Eyebrows: Before applying foundation, I filled in the eyebrows with MAC “spiked” eyebrow pencil.

3. Concealer and Foundation: Concealer and Foundation: If needed, apply concealer for spot coverage with a concealer brush or your fingers. With a damp foundation sponge, apply your foundation all over the face and under the eyes and allow it to dry before setting it with face powder. This will prevent the heavy look of foundation. I used BH Cosmetics’ concealer and face primer, Studio Fix Fluid by MAC and the Mineralized Skin Fin-

ish Powder by MAC was used to set the foundation.

4. Eyeshadow application: Eye-shadow application: To allow eye-shadows to last all day, apply an eye-shadow base. I used Flawless Facez eye-shadow primer. Using the 120 palette from Flawless Facez, I applied a mauve, pink and purple eye-shadow on the eyelid, then blended out the colors with a mid-toned brown. I then lined the eyes with waterproof eyeliner and applied a pair of false eyelashes; they look awesome in photographs! Apply water proof mascara to blend the false eyelashes into your natural eyelashes.

5. Lip Color: Whether you choose to wear gloss or lipstick, make sure to line the lips with lip liner. This will prevent the lip color from bleeding. Choose a long-lasting lipstick or gloss that will last through the big kiss!

ABOUT THE MAKE-UP ARTIST Tamika has been a freelance make-up artist since 2011 and established Flawless Facez Bahamas (bhs) in September 2012.

“I enjoy bringing out natural beauty and empowering women by helping to build their confidence,” says Tamika.

Flawless Facez bhs is a mobile makeup service that brings the beauty to you!

Set assistant. D’shanti Rolle. Model: Janae Rolle

Make-up: “Flawless Facez by Tamika Huyler” Flawless Makeovers for all occasions!

Telephone: 376-2232 or 558-5048 Email: flawlessfacez@hotmail.com facebook: http//facebook.com/tamikamua instagram: flawlessfacezbhs Photography: Barry Williams

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SEVEN TA SEVEN TRADING “THE FLORIST SUPERSTORE” Tel: (242) 328-5018/786-245-8650 E:seventaseventrading@hotmail.com

Store hours 7am-7pm If you are planning a celebration, wedding, funeral or get-together and are in need of the best floral arrangements, “Seven Ta Seven Trading” is who you need to call!

Having been in operation for five years, Seven Ta Seven Trading is a wholesale provider of fresh flowers and other trinkets for every occasion and their clientele consists mainly of florists and event planners.

Founder and owner Meltoria Minus-Rolle talks about the concept of the store: “After I retired, I realized that I needed to do something for myself and had no plans of working for anyone else, so I began working part time in a floral shop. This was something I had done before.

My sister and I had a home-based business and we worked with floral arrangements on special occasions; Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, Easter etc.. I saw the need for a wholesaler because a lot of people want to do stuff for themselves now. They can go online search on Google, and YouTube, so we kind of cater to anyone who can make arrangements themselves; like I said, the local florist. So the concept of the store is just to provide fresh flowers on a weekly basis to anyone who needs it.

Also, as far as supplies, we supply a little of everything, again, for the event planner or anyone who can do it themselves. In my opinion, there weren’t many places you could go to get things that you would need like a good selection of baskets and containers, or anything else over here. So we just carry a little of everything; not a big supplier, but a bit of everything.”

Mrs. Rolle says that they have 200 18 nuwomanmagazine.com

plus regular customers.

“We won’t get the same customers every week, but basically we have 200 plus customers that come on a regular basis. I feel like we have carved out our niche in the market but there is always room for more customers.”

Mrs. Rolle also notes her feelings towards the state of the business.

“Right now I’m pretty happy where we are. I’m not looking to expand the business right now because in today’s economy flowers are a luxury. So it’s not like the bigger you are the more customers you will get. The bigger you are, the more expenses you have. I feel like in this business there is only so ‘big’ you can get. I think that’s where many small businesses go wrong; they try to expand not realizing that the customer base is still very small.”

Mrs. Rolle also offers a bit of advice to other small businesses, “This is my advice to any small businesses: know your market and how big you can get because there is really no point in expanding when you don’t have a customer base to expand to. It’s always the same people with disposable income who can afford to buy flowers. There are people who, on a weekly basis, are trying to feed their children and pay school fees.

So right now I don’t see the need for expansion.”

However, despite not wanting to expand Seven Ta Seven, Mrs. Rolle is not complaining. She says, “Business is good. We also have a few customers on the Family Islands who we ship to whenever they have an event, such as: a wedding or other celebrations, and are in need of fresh flowers. They will call

us and we will ship them out.”

Mrs. Rolle tells us what she thinks the key to having a successful small business is.

At the end of the day everyone needs to make a profit, so we try to keep the prices as affordable as possible and our products as fresh as possible.

I find this rewarding financially and also on a personal level.”

Open from 7am to 7pm on Mondays to Fridays 7am to 1pm on Saturdays.

“Always”

By Allia M. Dean Written by Nasia Colebrooke

What do you get when you combine talent, determination, sea glass and construction metals?

Hand-made jeweler, Allia M. Dean, talks about how she got her start in jewelry making.

“My first step was to apply to the Bahamas Agricultural & Industrial Corporation (BAIC) for their jewelry class. At the time, sea glass classes were being offered and it interested me! I discovered my joy last year February and shortly after, I discovered my talent by reactions of others to my own personal twist on sea glass!”

After leaving her job in September 2012, Allia set out to become an entrepreneur, and in November of 2012, at the young age of 20, “Always By Allia M. Dean” was established.

Having graduated from The College of The Bahamas in 2012 with an Architecture degree, Allia was able to fuse architectural construction with the beauty and design of jewelry making. She spoke about her first piece of jewelry she ever made. It was a “True Green” sea glass, embedded in sterling silver pendant. In her eyes, this pendant is still “priceless”.

Allia also described the first piece of jewelry she ever sold, saying, “The first piece I sold was for a male. It was a green sea glass wrapped in stainless steel wire, on a leather chain which I also made.”

Aside from sea glass, are endless arrays of materials that can be used to create jewelry. However, Allia uses Paper Jewelry, which is jewelry made of everyday paper, along with Construction-inspired jewelry, which is made by leftover construction material.

Having worked on a construction site before founding “Always”, Allia shared that she was a bit bothered by the wasting of materials around the construction sites. She explains, “I know that might sound weird, but it’s true! I was so passionate about how much was wasted, that I tried to, and am still trying to, address this with

my construction material-inspired jewelry, which are made from construction nuts, while adding a bit of architectural flavor to the pieces.”

There are three main types of jewelry that Allia makes at present: Sea Glass (which are handpicked from Bahamian waters) and come in all sorts of forms such as: gold and silver chains, pearls, jewelry wires, beads, crystals and so on.

The Paper Jewelry go for $5 and up, whereas, unisex personality jewelry are $12.50 and up and sea glass unisex jewelry is $35 and up.

Allia credits herself with having come up with the idea of unisex bracelets before “Shamballa Jewells”.

the country, inspiring and producing authentic Bahamian goods, which would be at a caliber equivalent to that of famous, international designers. She plans on continuing her education in Architecture, obtaining certifications, so that she can become more qualified and equipped to further herself in the jewelry and business arenas.

She urges The Bahamas to “watch out” and says that she wants to help the environment and put the country on the map.

Always By Allia M. Dean Facebook Page - http:// www.facebook.com/AlwaysByAlliaMDean

Allia is also talented in other areas such as: soldering silver, gold and fabric jewelry, as well as resin bracelets (somewhat like Pandora).

With God on her side and not even the sky being her limit, in the next five years, Allia hopes to have established her company, opening locations all over

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Celeste Marshall

“Breaking Barriers�

P h o t o g r a p h y. B a r r y W i l l i a m s .

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u Woman did a post interview with Celeste Marshall on the heel of her trip to the Miss Universe at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. We caught up with Celeste on her return from the competition and in the middle of our spring cover shoot, where she is the featured model.

NW: What has it been like since you got back?

Celeste: Ummm, it’s actually been pretty slow. I haven’t been doing as much things as I did before Miss Universe. Now I think I’m on sort of a mini vacation, but I’m getting started again.

NW: So what are you focusing on now?

Celeste: Now, I’m focusing on my platform, getting into the schools and keeping up with the Diabetes Association, helping out at various support groups.

NW: So tell me a little about the Top Model competition that’s coming up?

Celeste: It is something I’m really excited about. I’ve been excited about it for a while. It’s going to be in Egypt. I leave on March 15th, and I spend two weeks there.

NW: How did this come about?

Celeste: Well, there was a Top Model competition in Miss Bahamas and in winning that competition you advanced to the Top Model of the World competition.

So in winning The Miss Bahamas Top Model, I advanced.

NW: We are wishing you all the best in that. Celeste: Thank you.

NW: Are you making any special preparations for this?

Celeste: No, I think it’s pretty straightforward. They focus more on the runway part of it as opposed to pageantry, but you still have to be prepared for everything. I think this will be pretty easy for me as I’ve been modeling a long time, so I hope it’s a breeze.

NW: With your trip to Top Model drawing closer, how are you feeling? Nervous?

Celeste: Surprisingly no, I’m not nervous.

I am excited and anxious to get there, but no I’m not nervous as yet.

NW: Do you think that the Miss Universe experience added to your preparations for this upcoming event?

Celeste: Yes I do think it has added tremendously. The experience at Miss Universe I feel, has prepared me for this journey in all aspects - in terms of what to expect at the competition, consistency and remaining well-grounded in what I was taught.

NW: What was the best part of the Miss Universe experience at Planet Hollywood?

And the worst?

Celeste: Wow, there were so many memories made at Miss Universe, but I think the best part had to have been getting to know so many other women and taking in the fact that there are so many people that are just like you but completely different in their own way.

Just being in that atmosphere is said to be chaos, but I feel as if it was the best because we all understood each other because we all had something in common. The worst, honestly I had no bad experiences there.

NW: What has been your most valuable lesson(s) in the last year?

Celeste: The most valuable lesson I’ve learnt has to be ‘hard work pays off’, and the minute it pays off, even when you feel like you are at your last, do not give up.

NW: How are you feeling about the upcoming cover?

Celeste: I am excited.

NW: What’s your concept of the cover?

Celeste: What’s my concept? Well, so far I’ve gotten spring; I’ve gotten bright colours, excitement, something that’s urban. I’m excited about it.

NW: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Celeste: In five years, I see myself with my bachelor’s degree in science and modeling for the biggest names in the industry.

NW: Are there any ‘barriers’ that you think you have broken in terms of how ‘beauty queens’ are perceived? Or any barriers in general?

Celeste: Yes, the one barrier I feel I’ve broken is the fact that I am down to earth and relatable. Most beauty queens are perceived to be perfect in the public’s eye, not approachable or pretenders. Myself, I let people know, understand and see that I am a real person with real feelings; I’ve allowed people to see that I am understandable and I can relate to a real

situation. I am happy and smiling all the time because that’s my “real personality” and I want people to accept me for who I truly am, and not what I am perceived to be.

----On the release of this issue we discovered that Celeste had never made the trip to Egypt to the Top Model competition.

Nu Woman made contact with her mother Lavette to find out the details of what happened. Lavette voiced her disappointment and said that the franchise had contacted Michelle Malcolm two days before they were set to leave the Bahamas to inform them that the competition was no longer available to the Bahamas.

Nu Woman also presented some question to Celeste to get her feedback on this.

NW: You never made it to the competition.

What happened with the Top Model Franchise?

Celeste: Unfortunately no, I was unable to attend the Top Model of the World 2013 competition. I am uncertain as to the status of the franchise. The Miss Bahamas Organization had informed my team only days before my departure that I would not be attending. We were told that World Beauty Organization, the owners of the Top Model of the World Competition, advised them that the competition was no longer available to this country. That is the extent of the information that has been passed on to us.

NW: How did you feel as a result of this?

Celeste: This news was devastating for me.

Top Model was one of the main reasons I entered the Miss Bahamas competition.

This competition was supposed to be one of the important steps I took in advancing my modeling career as well as branching my image. I am saddened and seek further clarification, but I am maintaining my focus.

NW: Will this deter you any?

Celeste: Definitely not. I am not that easily deterred. Modeling is a very important focus in the packaging of my career. I will not give up until my ultimate goal is realized. My dream is to one day strut the runways with those glamorous ladies adorned with the Wings of Victoria Secrets and, trust me, I am working and will continue to work to that goal.

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Restaurant Review

CHAUD CREOLE For Real This Time

By Chanua Johnson

Nu Woman is happy to introduce a new section on restaurants around the Caribbean, with an added bonus; a restaurant review! Our first piece in this section is by Chanua Johnson, from Trinidad, who also writes for Trinidad Reviews.

On Dimache Gras (Carnival Sunday), my first visit to Chaud Creole in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad to dine turned into a Chaud Creole take out lunch and us having carnival lunch on the Queens Park Savannah. This was not bad but was not what I expected because I was excited about dining in and experiencing Chaud Creole to the fullest.

Soon enough though, it was Sunday again and we were planning a family lunch outing, which is a frequent family activity as we enjoy sharing time together while dining out. We were faced with the same challenge: deciding where to eat. None of us had yet dined in at Chaud Creole, so the decision to return was easy.

Having dined at Chaud Creole previously, I can say that there seems to be consistency, at least on Sunday’s, in terms of the atmosphere, the cleanliness and the very welcoming, open and naturally lit interior.

The layout was the same as before: a main area where the various dishes were laid out buffet style; a bar room with a wide range of desserts, a small selection of fresh fruit, a coffee/tea table; and the dining areas. We were seated by a very pleasant hostess and awaited our waitress.

After chatting for a while, we placed our orders. For drinks, we ordered four wa-

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ters, three still and one sparkling. The option of Fonti Bauda for water was fine, as there was no local bottled water available. We also ordered three glasses of juice; it was “fresh juice” according to our waitress. However, after the first sip of the juice, I became somewhat disappointed to notice what seems to be a trend with the “fresh juices” at local restaurants. After being fooled a couple times though, we asked a few direct questions prior to placing our drink order: Is it fresh? (“Yes” was the waitress’ answer.) Does it have sugar added? (She answered, “No”). So we agreed to try them and ordered a glass of tamarind juice and two glasses of orange juice, only to be served sweetened juice, which was nowhere near freshly prepared! Oh my! I was starting to wonder

if it was a misunderstanding; perhaps local “fresh juice” actually means “freshly poured” juice.

Fresh Vegetables and Cush Cush

The option of Fonti Bauda for water was fine.

There was no bottled local municipal water available, moreso municipal water from far away, probably Italy...hmmmm. Before I could stop the opening of the bottle it was being poured into

our glasses. We enjoyed the water. There was nothing we could do now.

Callaloo and Jasmine Rice

We were invited to serve ourselves lunch from the buffet; I loaded my first of several plates and planned to return to enjoy the many meat options. The meal was nice but was nothing spectacular. It was similar to good “Trini” Sunday cooking. I was unable to return for my intended meat plate as I was stuffed. After a few laughs and some hot tea and necessary coffee topped with some sweet treats, we ended our meal.

Check out our official review of Chaud Creole, have you been? submit you review...have fun with it... http://www.trinidadreviews.com/index.php/component/ content/article/18-trinidad-restaurant/49-chaud-creole-restaurant After luch Jasmine Tea

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After lunch coffee for me

My desert plate (above)

Earlier this year, I embarked on a search for my favourite à la carte Sunday lunch mainly because eating out on Sundays is almost always a decision among many buffet options. I am not a fan of buffets or menu specials because I am often weary whether the meal is freshly prepared and not yesterdays leftovers refixed. I will share my take on ‘Eating Sunday Lunch Out’ soon.

My experience at Chaud Creole, as well as input from recent restaurant reviews, has inspired a few more review criteria on our local review site, TrinidadReviews.com. To the four original criteria (food, service, value/price, and ambiance), we have added location, parking, friendly/knowledgeable staff, food options, non-alcoholic beverage options, alcoholic beverage options, freshness of vegetables, opening hours, bathroom up-keep, payment system, wait for service, wait for food and wait for bill.

So, about Chaud Creole!! What do I think? Chaud Creole offers tasty local cuisine, but they’re very pricey for local food that I can probably cook myself; well let me be honest, it’s local food that I can’t cook, but I can certainly find it at a family member’s home, or perhaps at a neighbourhood restaurant. At TT$300.00 per person for a buffet brunch plus additional charges for drinks that are not included in the basic lunch, I have come to the conclusion that I have had enough of Chaud Creole on Sundays. However, I am curious to visit on a weekday as they offer à la carte dinner, and I plan to do so soon with one of my “partners in crime”, who has yet to visit this local spot. So until next time...

Email: chanuajohnson@trinidadreviews.com, URL: http://www.trinidadreviews.com

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Mathieu Bitton Director for Lenny Kravitz documentary “Looking Back on Love: Making Black and White America” talks one on one with Nu Woman magazine.

By Erica Meus-Saunders

I

’ve been a Lenny Kravitz fan for years and have been following his music and acting career for quite some time. Nu Woman did our first feature on Lenny back in 2010 at the premier of the film “Precious’ where Lenny picked up his first acting role.

About a week or so ago, I picked up a buzz online about this new documentary on Lenny Kravitz by Mathieu Bitton. I was keenly interested and started browsing around online. I came across the trailer on Mathieu’s fan page and after watching it, I knew that I had to talk to him about this film. I sent him a note, he responded and was more than willing to talk with us. This process took place over a few days, back and forth via Facebook, emails and telephone. Here is part of that interview with Mathieu Bitton.

Nu Woman: How did the concept for the movie/documentary come about?

Mathieu Bitton: I was touring with Lenny in 2009 and he was calling a friend to ask him if he could connect him with a director to make a film on a new album. I was sitting across from him and made “a face”. He got it and said, “Oh yeah! You could do it!”

NW: Why this documentary now?

MB: It was supposed to be released at least a year ago but with some label and legal issues, was put on hold. I am glad it is coming out now so people can really see the brilliance of this album Black And White America.

NW: Three years is a long time. How did you keep the project ‘fresh’?

MB: Every day is a new day. And we did a couple tours while we were working on this so the world was our canvas and energies shifted constantly.

NW: Whose idea was it to do the documentary?

MB: Lenny’s.

NW: Your friendship with Lenny spans decades. How would you say this has contributed to this final product?

MB: Well just how you can’t buy love, you can’t buy trust and access, which are almost everything in a documentary like this. And with a long friendship comes trust and access. So I believe I was able to show the real Lenny, uncensored and raw. No BS. 25

NW: Are you pleased with the documentary?

MB: I am very pleased that I was able to show the experience as it was. My whole intention was raw and real and to give the viewer a “fly-on-the-wall” experience. I shot 99% of it myself with no fancy equipment, no lighting, no crew. If there was camera movement, I kept it in there so the viewer could move with us.

NW: Who came up with the title?

MB: I did, based on a song title from the album. Not only my favorite song, but also a perfect title for the experience. And now that it’s coming out nearly a year and a half after the release of the album, I think it’s a highly appropriate title. Everything happens for a reason.

NW: Were you always into music, film and design?

MB: I grew up with fashion design parents. I was obsessed with music as a little kid. I started collecting vinyl around 10 years old. I still do. I always loved film and film posters, which I collect as well.

NW: What propelled you in this direction?

MB: Passion and Instinct.

NW: Whose idea was it to have the film released via iTunes?

MB: We wanted a forum with easy access to the world. There may be other venues later, but iTunes is so instant, it’s perfect. We just want to share the experience.

NW: You are multi-talented: photography, CD design and filmmaker... Which skill brings you the most pleasure?

MB: Pleasure comes from an internal feeling caused by my visual and aural senses. So any one of these can bring me the utmost pleasure. I usually get very excited about every project I do. But I 26 nuwomanmagazine.com

Left: Mathieu Bitton ‘Looking Back on Love’ screening at USC with Vince Wilburn Jr., by Neftalie Williams Right: Mathieu Bitton ‘Looking Back on Love’ screening at USC with Lenny Kravitz trumpet player Ludovic Louis by Neftalie Williams

‘Looking Back on Love’ screening at USC

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Mathieu Bitton ‘Looking Back on Love’ screening at USC with J. Kevin Swain, Q & A moderator. am very excited to pursue film on a larger scale.

NW: What are you expecting from this film in terms of audience feedback?

What message would you like them to take away, or remain most dominant in their minds?

MB: I don’t set myself up with expectations. However, I want people to walk away from this with a “Wow! Lenny is an amazing musician, a real human being and a funny guy” and “Wow! I didn’t know he played all these instruments!” I just want to share what I have been privileged to witness for all these years. And the most important quality I’ve witnessed is his discipline. In every capacity.

There is no secret to having a successful career for nearly 25 years.

It takes amazing discipline.

NW: What are some of your fondest memories in making this documentary?

MB: There is a very touching part of the film with legendary Jazz photographer Herman Leonard that takes place in Eleuthera and Los Angeles. Herman is by far the most amazing human being I got to become friendly with in this experience. He was very encouraging to my photography and me. I had a poster of his classic Dexter Gordon smoking photo when I was 12-14 in France. He was already a part of me. I can’t wait for people to see that part of the film. We used to sit by the water and have conversations for hours in French and English. He will be in my heart forever. He passed away in 2010 shortly after we filmed that sequence.

The film was drawing lots of buzz on facebook, and I really was anticipating its release. I kept abreast of all posts from Mathieu and Lenny. The release date arrived and I logged into my iTunes account, only to find out that I could not access the US stores; apparently we were denied access due to some copyright laws. I called my sister in the US who purchased the film online for me and I finally got a glimpse of Looking Back On Love .

I sent feedback to Mathieu shortly afterwards as I had some additional questions for him.

NW: You have been moving around with Lenny for the past three years in putting this documentary together, how has this impacted your private life? Are you married? Kids? Has this been difficult for you in keeping in contact with the significant people in your life?

Mathieu: Four years this month. I have two boys, Miles, 13 and Julien, 10. It’s very hard to be away so much, especially on tour for long stretches but when I come home for a couple months I’m really with them as much as possible. Thank god for Skype is all I have to say!

Here is what Lenny had to say about the film.

NW: Today, the buzz everywhere was great! You are moving up the iTunes list steadily, how are you feeling?

Mathieu: I feel wonderful and vindicated somehow because it took so much and so long to get it out. It’s still #5 on iTunes right now. This is a project that has taken me away from my kids for so long so it needed to come out so they also, could understand the work and art that went into it. The response has made me feel amazing!

“So Looking back on Love is out now. I am honored to share the raw experience of my life and making of Black and White America.

It is a time that I will always cherish. Let love rule”.

NW: Did you have a system in recording this film, or did you just go with it?

Mathieu: Just went with the flow and filmed way too much stuff :)

Find the documentary exclusively on iTunesMusic- http://t.co/ Hxxu6nM3

NW: This was quite an ambitious project. Did you have previous film experience?

How did you get into film?

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Mathieu: I only had made music videos and vital videos, a few of which with Lenny were hugely successful (Lenny Crashes the VOP Choir in New Orleans) for example. I always follow my passion and make it happen regardless of the medium.

Mathieu Bitton is a French born, Grammy Award nominated Art Director, Photographer, Producer, Designer and Dadaist. He has designed over 650 CD’s and is a world-renowned collector and authority on Black Films. He is credited for producing a few albums such as, the Transformers franchise and Terminator Salvation soundtracks. Along with this, Mathieu has designed many film posters, including Kevin McDonald’s “Marley,” Jane’s Addiction’s “A Cabinet Of Curiosities” and Miles Davis’ “Bitches Brew: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition” boxed sets, along with a new Lenny Kravitz CD. You can find Mathieu on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ CandyTman This article was first published online via our website: http://nuwomanmagazine.com Follow our blog feed and stay updated on all the latest stories, and events. Sign-up is FREE! Just leave a name and e-mail contact so that we can update you on any new articles available and to also receive our magazine’s digital version directly to your inbox (the magazine is both print and digital).

Premier photo by Neftalie Williams (neftalie.com).

Lenny Kravitz’s photos by Mathieu Bitton.

Right: Poster at ‘Looking Back on Love’ screening at USC Bottom: Lenny Kravitz in Eleuthera

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Dot

All Eyes

Make-up by D’Angelo Bethel

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In t he Shadows Make-up . Carlotta Ebanks

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M a ki n g me Blush Make-up . Lucy Lu Hairstylist. Devon Hanna (D-Factor) 34 nuwomanmagazine.com

Read my Smiz e Make-up . Lucy Lu

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N efari o us N eo n 36 nuwomanmagazine.com

G e n ero us G low Make-up . Lucy Lu

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Raspberry Ki ss Make-up . Carlotta Ebanks

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Super Chi c Make-up . Lucy Lu

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W ho's Blues Make-up . Lucy Lu

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ANNA PIERRE

First Female Caribbean Candidate for Mayor of North Miami “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr

Anna Pierre has been a resident of South Florida since 1981.

She was born in Haiti and is the third child in a family of nine siblings. Anna will be the first Caribbean female to run for the prestigious position of Major of North Miami.

she returned to Miami, Florida. Anna does admit that the transition was not easy, even though she had friends in Miami and even though she wanted to accomplish her goals. Learning to speak English and trying to find employment, were Anna’s top priorities this time. In fact, her inability to grasp the language caused even further problems for her.

“I remember, for my first job application, I checked that I was a thief. This caused me to be jailed three times, all because of me not fully understanding the English Language, and not knowing the definitions of the words “thief” and “jail”, Anna confessed.

Anna talked about her early beginnings and how it pushed her into her chosen field.

“My father, though a very loving man was not always at home with us. It was my mother, a beautiful, God loving, community - minded woman, who did everything for us.

From selling goods at the local market, to working as a maid at “well to do” people’s houses, to caring for us and providing me, especially, with an education. Because of the hardships that had become the trademark of my life, I grew to appreciate life and learned to use all opportunities that came my way -- whether it was small or big.”

Anna continues, revealing that at a very early age, her mother instilled in her great moral values and a sense of responsibility.

“The hazard of a beautiful summer morning put me right into my first nursing assignment, when at the tender age of ten (10), due to the lack of - or the inability to afford the services of the local midwife, with instructions from my mother, I helped her deliver my younger brother at home. Needles to say that I spent this summer vacation caring for my baby brother, while my mother, instead of staying home to enjoy her maternity vacation and bond with her baby - had to resume work. This is when my sense of caring, leadership ability started to develop.”

After graduating from high school in Haiti, Anna was fortunate enough to receive training as a Practical Nurse. But, when she later applied for admission at the Registered Nursing Program, she was turned down. However, she did not let this stop her. Anna moved to Canada to live with a friend, but was faced with many life-changing obstacles, such as dealing with immigration issues.

“A few months after moving to my friend in Montreal, Canada, I was discovered to be an illegal immigrant and was forced to move back to Haiti for another six months.” She further explains, “In Canada, it didn’t matter if you were good and productive, if you are an illegal alien, you can hide underground, but the immigration officers will find you if they have to.”

After spending the six months in her home of Cap-Haitien, 41

“Anna Pierre” continued on page 48

ANUSCHKA WRIGHT

JAZZ IN BLOOM

By Erica Meus-Saunders Photography. Scharad Lightbourne

I

first met and interviewed Anuschka back in the summer of 2009. I had gone to the Oyster Bar on this particular Sunday to listen to some Jazz music. Accompanying me were my cousin Tanya and my youngest sister Sophie who also enjoyed Jazz. We were in for a treat: Ronnie Butler was in the house, he got up and sang a few of his songs, following him was a young lady by the name of Anuschka.

I was completely caught off guard by her voice; it was a strong, trained voiced and I was totally blown away. I decided then and there that she would have to be featured in Nu Woman magazine, and made contact shortly after her performance. She was featured in Nu Woman’s Fall 2009 issue.

Four years later, I got an opportunity to sit and talk with this young rising star who is hosting her first full Jazz concert this June in aid of schooling abroad to pursue her talents further.

Anuschka talks about her upcoming concert: “Jazz in Bloom is my first Jazz concert attempt - a self-promoted event where I would be the headliner. It’s in conjunction with the fact that I’ll be going off to school this year and I wanted to do something different, and of course you are always looking for that support and monetary aid. I felt like doing a concert would be ideal and one of the best ways to show why I need support as an artist. It’s also a way to track my growth. I’m starting off and you get to see me, there is a reference point and I’m kind of selling myself at the same time. I feel comfortable in my art now. I can headline something; it’s kind of like taking people on this journey with me now.

NW: So what are you going off to study? Music?

Anuschka: Yes. 42 nuwomanmagazine.com

course.

NW: Where are you going?

A: There are a few schools I’m looking at. I’m applying to a school in New York; which is a hub for music, and I also found a school in Canada (Montreal), again a hub for music and they have one of the biggest Jazz festivals in the world. So it will be either New York or Montreal, so I’m very excited. With both schools come different opportunities. When I chose schools, where to go, the environment, as well as the program was a big part in my choices. I didn’t want to study music in a place where I didn’t have a place to practice it.

So living somewhere in Oklahoma where you kind of have to search for a club (laughter) would not work. I’m done with my applications, they are already out and all my auditions are in. I’m excited!

NW: So how long was the application process?

A: The application was not that bad; I’ve been applying to schools before so a lot of the information that they needed I already had.

NW: Generally, what are they looking for?

A: Generally, they need references, some of the schools depending would ask about your musical background and work that you have done. But the application process is normally basic like any university; it’s only when you get into the music part of it, you have to worry about the auditions, but they give you a basic run down as to how the auditions should go. Some require video and some require just audio. So you have to be prepared for that.

NW: Is it a four year program or two year program? A: It’s a four year program. It’s actually a Bachelor’s in Music. NW: So just music in general?

A: Well, the first year is basically general information. But when it comes to specialization, I’m looking at going into the vocal performance section. What I like about these schools is that they focus on Jazz and have some really good Jazz programs, and some specialized Jazz courses.

The school in New York, it’s the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. So I would be looking towards that specialized vocal

NW: So when are you leaving?

A: August, I’ll definitely be leaving.

NW: I’m excited for you! Are there sponsored programs or scholarships to any of these schools?

A: Some of the schools, as soon as you apply, your application acts as an admittance to their ‘Merit Program’. For example your audition tapes, etc… So yes, you will automatically be given that opportunity. But, music scholarships are not as easy to come by. You have to be really awesome, and even then there are some things you just have to be in the right circle. It’s hard now in this country to get a scholarship for even a regular profession (doctor, lawyer); it’s hard, so that’s another reason why I wanted to do the concert because you’re just not going to get handouts. I’ve been surviving as a full-time musician now for about 2-3 years so I know that I can make a living from this and I just want to.

NW: You have been performing with Jazz Etc? A: Yes, Jazz Etc is my main band and I’ve had a lot of great experiences so far and that has encouraged me to seek international exposure, to get some more experience. I feel having this concert is a good thing, to be able to present myself as an artist, so people can stop asking, ‘what are you doing today’? (giggles) NW: Tell me a bit more about the concert, when is it?

A: We have been working on it for a while now, and it’s set for June 16th and it will be at the Hilton in the Grand Ballroom.

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“

aving the chance to not only experience H music in this way, in terms

of knowing the little intricacies that go into it, knowing how to create on the spot, but also the fact that I have proof that I can live, and make a living from it, which is something that you don’t usually hear as a Bahamian who has a pull to the arts, I was blessed to have that option made real to me Photography by Scharad L

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NW: So what are tickets like?

A: Ticket prices, I don’t have the notes on that right now, but I can give you a general cost, starting tickets will be $60 - $65 for regular admission, we will also have ‘Reserved’ and ‘VIP’ tickets. But starting price will be $60-$65.

NW: You will be the featured musician, are any other artists performing?

A: It’s not going to be like a huge group of artists, there are a few persons on the ticket: vocalist Josh Lynes, vocalist Osano Neely, Bass Adrian D’ Aguilar, and on Saxophone Ralph Munnings from Freeport, Grand Bahama. But for the most part of the whole concert, I am the featured artist but will be backed up by Jazz Etc. I’m having two international guest musicians. I’m excited. It’s funny too because I heard some people tell me that they have never been to a full Jazz concert. In the Bahamas we always present ‘Jazz’ and something... ‘Jazz and R&B’. Even with Jazz Etc., we start out with Jazz and then go into a little pop at the end. So I’m excited to present that to the country.

NW: So how long will the concert run?

A: It’s not going to be long. Cocktail hour starts at 7 p.m., the concert at 8:30 p.m. with a short intermission. We will probably be finished by 10 p.m. Yeah, you are going to get a different experience. The event will be semi-formal and will take place on Father’s Day. We want it to feel very cultured and rich; we want to take you someplace. That’s another one of our complaints in the Bahamas ‘we don’t have enough dressy events’. It’s another opportunity for people to come and ‘dress up’, dress nicely and mingle with people that enjoy the same things that they do. And it’s nice; people like to dress up, to experience something. I feel like this will be a great experience, and right before summer.

NW: It’s been a while since we last spoke, four years to be exact, in all that time I’ve seen your growth as an artist; what are some of the things that you have learnt?

A: My God, I’ve learnt so much. It’s been a blessing; I’ve kind of been thrown in head first. I was blessed to meet Adrian (Adrian D’Aguilar with the Jazz Etc band) and honestly he has been a ‘Godsend’; I praise his name and his works. He is such a good person and he really gave me a great opportunity early on. I didn’t really have that ‘looking for a job struggle’ that a lot of people had. Working with “the” Jazz band in the Bahamas, Adrian has introduced me to so many people. I met the guy who is coming down to play for me, through working with Adrian and I’ve met awesome international artists. To have the chance to play with them, to hear them, to ‘jam’ with them, just to talk with these guys, here in this little Bahamas…., he has introduced me to a lit-

45

tle piece of New York. I didn’t have to go anywhere. I don’t think I would have gone into music full-time as quickly as I did if it wasn’t for these opportunities.

NW: Were you thinking about pursuing another career?

A: Yeah, I was thinking about becoming a surgeon and that was my focus, at that time, I did not have any other options.

Having the chance to not only experience music in this way, in terms of knowing the little intricacies that go into it, knowing how to create on the spot, but also the fact that I have proof that I can live, and make a living from it, which is something that you don’t usually hear as a Bahamian who has a pull to the arts, I was blessed to have that option made real to me. So in terms of my growth as a musician and a singer, I can’t begin to start... Just stage performance, I’ve grown so much. I was not a front person when I started out. I am a background singer I would tell you (laughter), I would tell anybody. That’s where I’m comfortable. To get on stage and to talk to people and to be focus and to have the band looking to me for directions, oh my God! It only can be God because if it was my choice I would sing my nice little harmonies in the background all day long (laughter).

So I’ve just been thrown headfirst into this and I’m grateful.

I want to do this. I really have to thank Adrian and the guys I work with, some great musicians right ‘off the bat’, Ralph Munnings, Fred Ferguson, Neil Symonette, Kevin Dean…

Like guys who you see and you hear, I KNOW them. I can actually call them my friends, they know me. I don’t think about it much I just live it. Now that I’m sitting down and thinking about the opportunities I’ve had it’s really just something I can’t put words to.

NW: How has your family support been through all of this?

A: Amazing. That’s another reason why I am where I’m at right now. I was allowed to explore these options. My mom has been a great support as you know; she is my little shadow, my grandmother as well. Some people took a little longer to convince, but they didn’t deter me. I think that’s another reason why Bahamians don’t branch out also because that family expectancy and pressure. Like I said we aren’t presented with a lot of options. ***Anuschka talks about some of the persons she would like to meet. ‘I’d like to meet Diane Reeves for sure, Christian McBride, oh there are just so many… Herbie Hancock...

Quincy Jones. He has just made such an impact in music, in all genres.’

Photography by: ScharadL Photography Hair: Aline Charles (Hair & Now) Makeup: Torkel Dawkins (Ts Artistry) Styling: Conesha Knowles

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“Anna Pierre” continued from page 41 However, despite this misfortune, there was a light at the end of the tunnel for Anna. The office manager of the clinic that she applied to, saw in her, innocence and a lack of knowledge of the language, and decided to hire her. She also helped Anna to register at one of the local community colleges, so that she could study “English as a Second Language”.

There was yet another setback for Anna as she was trying to pursue her goals of becoming a Practical Nurse. As she sent for her transcripts, the then Haitian Government - Sponsored School refused to send them, claiming that Anna had not completed her two-year residency after finishing nursing school.

Nonetheless, Anna persevered, as she always did, even it meant having to start all over, again, and not too long after, did she finally strike gold.

Anna explained, “In 1984, while working as a Nursing Assistant at a local nursing home for the aged, I took the entrance exam to Lindsay Hopkins - a Vocational School - in hopes of receiving a High School Diploma and once again, to obtain a degree as a Practical Nurse.”

She continued, “In 1987, as an LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse, I then continued at Miami Dade Community College, where I graduated with honors. Shortly after becoming a Registered Nurse, I applied for and obtained my permanent residency, and in December of 1995 - at the James L. Knight Auditorium, in Downtown Miami, I simultaneously obtained my citizenship and my Bachelor’s Degree in Health Services Administration from Barry University.”

Anna also spoke about additional achievements, stating, “While working as a nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital of Miami, I was also working on my music part-time and raising my daughter. With all this, I managed to enroll at Florida International University, to obtain a degree in Public Health, with a

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concentration in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.”

Anna also cites one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s quotes as a reflection of the philanthropic legacy which he left on the U.S. It states: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” With this, Anna notes that nursing and serving the public have always been her priorities, saying, “It is important that we engage in some sort of activity that gives us the opportunity to serve others in our community.”

In addition to being a Registered Nurse, Anna is also a Recording Artist and some of her work in this area can be found at www.annapierre.com.

Anna has also created APHEC INTERNATIONAL, INC. (THE PEOPLE’S CLINIC), which is another way she serves her community. With the help of other affiliated, community-based organizations, Anna provides free health screenings and referrals for follow-up care for patients who do not have health insurance.

She has been doing this for the past twenty-eight years. Screenings include, Diabetes, Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Cancer for men and women, HIV Counseling & Testing, as well as Immunizations for children who are going back to school. APHEC INTERNATIONAL, INC, whenever possible, also tries to help people with their utility bills.

Anna explains that all the services are provided either from her nursing salary, or that a very minimal amount are donations from supporters who believe in the work of the organization.

The centre also provides services through quarterly community health fairs and on-site screenings at their physical location.

However, Anna does admit that efforts to obtain grants have not been successful and that the needs for services continue to escalate daily.

Not wanting to close down the centre, having to turn down patients who depend on them to have access to quality health care services, Anna says that she knows that the current May-

or of Miami is at his second term and that he could not vie for a re-election.

She reveals, “After talking to my family, my board members, some of our supporters and a few local leaders, I decided to run for the position of Mayor. I have what it takes and like my friends have been saying for years, “I have been doing the job of a Mayor for years”.

The whole ordeal of wanting to keep APHEC alive and thriving, is the main reason for Anna wanting to run for Mayor of North Miami.

She explains, “There are resources available. As the mayor of the city, I can use these resources to continue to serve my community, by providing free health screenings and referrals for follow-up care for those in need.”

She goes on to list other services that she would provide, saying, “I want to create social programs for Seniors; work on crime prevention and intervention programs; create jobs and opportunities for small-business owners; create educational programs for our youth and continued education for the adults. I want to reward hard working students.”

She also confesses that the city of North Miami has been the subject of a lot of negative press, but that as mayor, she would restore the confidence and the trust that too many residents of North Miami have lost.

Anna also notes how APHEC was primarily created for the Haitian community, but because of their location being in the middle of a shopping centre, people of all ethnic groups are welcome to receive services.

However, when tragedy struck Haiti on January 12th, 2010 in the form of a disastrous earthquake, Anna, along with other non-profit clinics, organized a major health fair on March 6th, 2010, where they cared for 1000 victims in one day. The majority of these patients were survivors of the earthquake, and their family members, who would have had to be airlifted from Port-au-Prince. This philanthropy, once it hit American news and one of Haiti’s main newspapers, The Nouvelliste and Ticket Magazine, was working in Anna’s favor, helping her campaign in running for mayor. However, Anna does admit that she is competing against seven opponents and three of them have a lot more money than she does, which she finds difficult to keep up with, despite her best efforts in serving the community through her healthcare medium.

Nevertheless, no matter what obstacles she faces or how difficult the journey may seem sometimes, Anna follows the philosophy: “God brings men into deep waters not to drown them, but to cleanse them. When the will of God must come to pass - even obstacles can become advantages.”

She knows the obstacles of her past, can and will definitely become the gateways that will lead to new beginnings for her and believes that this will be the reason why, on Tuesday, May 14th 2013, she will make history, as becoming the first Caribbean female mayor of the city of North Miami!

Anna kindly send thanks to everyone for their trust and support.

Anna Pierre, RN, MPH The next Mayor of North Miami http://www.annapierreRN4mayor.com (305) 200-7466

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Photography: Calvin French

Fanpage at: https://www.facebook.com/caribbeansnexttopmodel I first interviewed Wendy Fitzwilliam in the Fall of 2011. In that interview, we touched on many issues, such as: Miss Universe, being a single mother, her charities, specifically the Hibiscus Foundation and we also spoke about her work and plans for Caribbean’s Next Top Model. Now, two years later, Caribbean’s Next Top Model is a reality and is being broadcast throughout the Caribbean. I took this opportunity to have a follow-up with Wendy on the show. Here is Nu Woman’s Q & A with Wendy Fitzwilliam on Caribbean’s Next Top Model.

Nu Woman: Wendy it’s good to catch up. When we spoke in the Fall of 2011 you had given me some information on Caribbean’s Next Top Model (CNTM). I believe it was in it’s early stages. It’s 2013 and the show is now being aired on many Caribbean stations. What other stations is the show on?

Wendy Fitzwilliam: Erica, thank you. I’m happy you are enjoying the show. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback and a few good critiques.

The schedule for airing is on the Caribbean’s Next Top Model Facebook

NW: What was the process like in making the show? From recording to editing and getting the sponsors, how difficult was it? Was it what you had anticipated?

Wendy: I’ve often compared the making of this show to Christopher Columbus’ journey to the West by which he “rediscovered” the Americas. Like Columbus, we planned. We worked hard to produce a ground-breaking show for the Caribbean, which is about Caribbean woman celebrating the Caribbean. The first time out is always very difficult. If it were not, someone else would have done this ages ago.

Principal photography was a tremendous learning experience and so too was the editing process. We have been very fortunate to secure the services of Blue Collar Productions in this process who has worked on productions like Glee, Avatar and several other very successful movies and television shows. We have learnt so much from them. They’ve done an amazing job putting together a stellar show.

Our sponsors have been tremendously supportive during this process.

Securing corporate support from sponsors such as: B’Mobile, KCL Capital Markets, Caribbean Airlines, Carlton Savannah, Chi, Sacha Cosmetics, TRINRE, Lime, Micles, Kalloo’s, Blue Waters, and Dominos was not easy but with a solid plan, such corporations have been truly committed.

There have been several other companies without whose support the show would not have happened.

One can never fully prepare for a production of this magnitude, but it lived up to my expectations and more. We had young women from all over the Caribbean who have the potential to make it in the fashion and beauty industry with dynamic personalities. They give “good face” and interesting stories. I’d say we have a winner on our hands.

NW: Tell me about your panel of judges, where are they from, their various backgrounds etc. How did you make the selection?

Wendy: We wanted a judging panel that comprised of members who understood the ins and outs of the Top Model franchise and who also have experience in the Beauty & Fashion Industries within the Caribbean and internationally. Thus, Pedro Virgil of Australia’s Next Top Model is our resident photographer and judge with a tremendous amount of experience. He has shot for Elle, Italian Vogue, Sports Illustrated, and many others. Richard Young is our resident Fashion Guru and has over 25 years of experience of training models in their walk & stage presentation. He has also executed the region’s most memorable fashion shows for almost three decades and has a vocabulary, diction & wit that would make Queen E II and mom both proud & scared.

NW: We had spoken earlier about the top winner being signed to an agency, is there finalization on what agency will sign the winner yet?

Wendy: Yes, our winner will be signed to the Chicago-based agency, Factor Women.

NW: What responses have you been getting from around the region on the show?

Wendy: From the inception, there has been a lot of excitement about this production and that has continued. The reception across the region has been overwhelmingly positive. The excitement of seeing our beautiful selves and our beautiful part of the world, presented by us as we would like to be presented, has not waned. Whether tuning in specifically to criticize or tuning in because we like the show, we are tuning in and staying tuned in. The North American and the UK diaspora particularly, have gotten very creative in seeing the series which is not yet officially available in those markets. We have received requests from African markets for syndication also. This speaks to the level of interest in the show and its potential for longevity.

NW: Do you think that you have accomplished what you set out to do?

Wendy: Our goals for this project were very ambitious: 1. To create an economically viable TV production for the wider Caribbean (English, French, Dutch & Spanish Caribbean) that would present us at our best and close the language and cultural gaps that now exist; 2. Find a Young Model who can work in the Fashion Industry internationally.

3. Feature and celebrate the cultures, the fashion and the beauty industries of the Caribbean through our own eyes.

ber 3, but this one is on-going and with more original programming to the world from us, about us, we will redefine the meaning of paradise in its many dimensions.

NW: What are some of the positives that you think the show will bring to the region?

Wendy: Firstly, the show celebrates our women and our fashion & beauty industries. From our designers to photographers to indigenous cosmetics, along with our language and our beautiful locations, these are all featured in each and every episode. The show celebrates several layers of the Caribbean without obviously trying to, in many ways. Let me explain. The girls and the fashion are obvious. From Sandra Hordatt swimsuits to Claudia Pegus Couture, our women and fashion are featured throughout the show.

TV is still the best way to promote anything over an extended period of time, particularly now that TV is supported by the Internet. Many of us, myself included, have moved our eyes from the TV set to our computers, tablets or smartphones, but the net effect is that these visuals live on for a very long time. I hosted an episode of “Wild On!” for E! Entertainment Network about Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival, while I was Miss Universe, and it still runs 14 years later all over the world. One of the powerful characters of the show, of which we do not directly speak, is the Caribbean and the beauty of our islands. It is heavily featured at each shoot’s location, with the models, and is a powerful presence. In editing these shows, I’ve often found myself enjoying the location as much as the girls. A TV series has this effect for a very long time. Think New York City.

Its inner working is featured on “Sex and The City” or the Los Angeles of “Entourage”. I know of a few boys weekends away that shifted from Las Vegas to LA because of that show. CNTM has the potential to do the same for the Caribbean. We are so much more than our white sand beaches and good rum. On CNTM, we explore that “So Much More” and help to define it.

Additionally, CNTM stands out in this franchise of 42 versions of America’s Next Top Model because it is the only Top Model that is regional and spans several countries as opposed to the others that are country specific. Thus, we have the opportunity through this vehicle to entice our populations to explore each others’ less familiar neighbours and the rest of the world. Each cycle can be filmed in a different location.

NW: How many shows are there in total?

Wendy: There are 11 shows in this cycle.

NW: What is the next step for CNTM? Wendy: We wish our winner a stellar career in this field. This is a tremendous opportunity for a young lady. Of course, winning a show like this is the equivalent of getting into a great University. It’s what you do while you are there that will make all the difference. We expect this production, which is the first truly Pan-Caribbean TV production to be produced in the region, to spore several others and start a truly Caribbean TV industry not segregated by island or language.

In addition to speaking with Wendy Fitzwilliam about the show, Nu Woman was also able to conduct an interview with Kendra James, one of the Bahamian contestants, via the cast Liaison Officer Marissa Mohammed.

We are still aggressively working on number 1. I think we’ve nailed number 2 but you’ll have to wait and see. We have also accomplished num53

INTERVIEW WITH KENDRA BENEBY-JAMES FOR NU WOMAN MAGAZINE

of Trinidad as I would have liked, but I got to see a good amount of it.

NW: Would you do it again?

Nu Woman via Marissa Mohammed: How were you selected for Caribbean’s Next Top Model? How did you learn of it?

Kendra: I learnt of the show through a website and auditioned.

NW: How did you feel when you were selected to compete? How was the selection process done?

Kendra: I was very excited when I was selected to be a part of the show.

NW: On arriving in Trinidad what were your initial thoughts?

Kendra: When I arrived in Trinidad it was too dark to see much so I was excited to wake up and get things rolling. The following morning, I remember just looking out of the window in awe of the distant mountains. It was beautiful.

NW: Were you nervous on the first challenge? What were your thoughts? Did you think that you had to represent the Bahamas?

Kendra: I was nervous and excited at the same time for the first challenge.

A part of me really wanted to make my country proud, so that put the pressure on for sure, but I was mostly focused on doing my best for myself.

NW: How did you feel you did with the Carnival shoot? Have you ever participated in Carnival? Did you understand the Carnival concept?

Kendra: The Carnival shoot was amazing! I had so much fun, and fun is what Carnival is about.

NW: What did you learn from the whole experience?

Kendra: This whole experience has taught me to not be afraid to step out of my safe zone. I’ve grown so much since being on the show.

NW: Did you get to see a lot of Trinidad?

Kendra: I didn’t get to see as much 54 nuwomanmagazine.com

Kendra: I’ve gained friends for a lifetime from being on the show. There are definitely moments I wouldn’t mind reliving.

Boot Camp Episode 2, Kendra of the Bahamas and Staphany of Curacao.

Photography: David Wears

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Kendra in Tribe Carnival Costume - Episode 4 Photo Shoot Photography: Pedro Virgil

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MISSION CATWALK SEASON THREE The most skilful and talented group of designers yet!

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eason three of Mission Catwalk has attracted some of the best emerging talent the Caribbean region has to offer. The show has expanded to include designers from St. Lucia, St, Vincent, Antigua, Haiti and Bahamas, who will now join the likes of Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana in TV’s hottest design challenge. This year’s rivalry will redefine the term ‘fierce’. The audience is in for an entertaining season as these designers stitch their way to victory.

Kay Davitian, a no-nonsense quality control expert, will whip the designers into shape as she takes on the task of mentoring the full group of designers this season. Kay Davitian has worked around the world for top design houses and has spent many of her years in the fashion industry working in factories for world-renowned designer Ralph Lauren and Jones New York in charge of their quality control division. Kay’s knowledge and skill set will change the dynamic of the garment construction process in the sewing room, increasing anxieties and stress level of the designers for a volcanic surge of skilled creativity, as we take the designs straight from the runway to retail stores.

FROM RUNWAY TO RETAIL Viewers will finally have a chance to get their favourite designs fresh off the catwalk. The winning designs for each episode will be reproduced and made available the next day at all Lee’s Fifth Avenue locations. One lucky designer will also receive a one-year contract with Global Purchasing Company, a full service buying office in New York. Global Purchasing Company represents over eighty boutiques across the United States and will represent our Caribbean designers in this market.

Season three kicks off on SATURDAY, APRIL 13 AT 8:30PM ON TVJ and will repeat on Tuesdays at 5:30PM. Contestants include: Alexis Campbell-Barbados, Anicia Brooks-Trinidad, Argent Roberts-Antigua, David Rolle-Bahamas,Elizabeth Jerimie-Trinidad, Katherine McDermott-Jamaica, Makisa Lewis-Trinidad, Marque Miller-Jamaica, Mwanza Glen-Guyana,Renardo Lloyd-Jamaica, Sharleen J Lagon-St Lucia, Sharon Shaw-Jamaica, Shernicia Mayer-St Vincent, Theodore Elyett-Bahamas,and Watson St Louis-Haiti.

PHOTO CREDITS: Top: Models in final line up for judging of designs.

Bottom: JUDGES (Fron left) Courtney Washington, Carlton Brown, Novia McDonald Whyte The winner of Mission Catwalk will receive the following prizes: · An opportunity to show a collection at the London Fashion Week. · JMD$500K funding to start their clothing line. · Industrial sewing equipment valued at JMD$200K. · A contract to sell their designs at Lee’s Fifth Avenue. · A fashion editorial in 6 Carlos Magazine. · A scholarship to pursue fashion program at London College Of Fashion.

Host / Exective Producer: Keneea Linton-George - Fashion Designer/ TV Producer Guest Judges: Shaggy (Entertainer), Anthony Miller (TV Personality), Yendi Phillipps (TV personality), Marlon Samuels (Cricketer), Courtney Washington (Designer), Babatu Sparrow (Magazine Editor), Manuela Goren (Journalist), Colin Hylton (Chef), and Mercedes Gonzales (International Fashion Buyer).

arra, Vera Wang and Kanye West.

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Mercedes-Benz

FASHIONWEEK MADRID

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, February 2013 Designers: MARIA ESCOTE/MARTIN LAMOTHE

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, Wednesday February 20, ‘13 Designers: DEVOTA & LOMBA

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, Thursday February 21, ‘13 Designers: ETXEBERRIA / MOISES NIETO

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, Friday February 22, ‘13 Designer: EGO: VÁLDNAD

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, 2013 BACKSTAGE