Nu Woman's Vol 9- Winter Spring 2010 issue

Model: Sedia Jackman Dress: Darcel De Vlugt Location: Sheraton Cable Beach Photographed by Lyndah Wells

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Erica Meus Saunders COPY EDITOR Tanya Simmons CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Noelle Nicolls Natasha Brown Leah Larwood STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Dwayne Delancy Phillippa Michel CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lyndah Wells Leah Larwood Vaughn Scriven Marissa Wells Tricia Maladely Margo Burrows Omar ‘B-Rich’ Richardson GRAPHIC DESIGN Erica Meus-Saunders Tara Deal MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION Theodora Cartwright Email: tedibare70@yahoo.com OR Tel: (242) 424-9879 PRINTING Pelican Print Co..

NU WOMAN MAGAZINE is printed four times a year.

PUBLISHED BY NU WOMAN LTD Freddie Munnings manor p.o.box cb 13236 Nassau, bahamas TEL: (242) 676-7908 Email: nuwomanbs@gmail.com Web: http://nuwomanmagazine.com

© 2010 Nu Woman Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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On the cover- Davia Chambers Winner TCI Supermodel 2009/10 17 -year old Davia participated in Islands of The World Fashion Week, held this past November in Nassau, Bahamas.

Davia took part in our photo shoot and also took a few minutes to talk with Nu Woman Magazine. Page 52 Davia is wearing designs by Phylicia Ellis Cover photo: Lyndah Wells Cover design: Tara Deal Location: Wyndham Nassau Resort Jewelry: Final Accents Boutiq Make-up: Greg Williams of Flawless Management Inc,

Nu Woman

Contents

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42 Winter/Spring 2010

32 Phylicia Ellis, Bahamian Designer

10 Publisher’s Page

47 Sabrina Stirrup (designer)

11 Contributors

53 Davia Chamber, TCI supermodel 2009/10

PROFILES

62 Darcel de Vlugt, Next Generation Award winner at IWFW ‘09

61 David Hanna 71 Arthur Diennet

SPECIAL FEATURE 21st Century Bahamian Women

FEATURES

16 Leah Eneas - actor, singer and disc jockey

13 The Virgin Marathon Runner II

18 Wendy Coakley-Thompson - author of Triptych

30 BahamasLocal.com “242” Business Directory and Search Engine

26 Abigail Farrington -

42 “Children of God”, A film by Kareem Mortimer

28 Michelle Hanna -

55 Johnny Depp receives Career Achievement Award 78 Lenny Kravitz on his first acting role 80 Geoffrey Fletcher- talks about his film “Precious”

HEALTH AND FITNESS 38 6 STUPID Moves to Jumpstart 2010

2010 FASHION FEATURE 21 Eric Raisina and Islands of the World Fashion Week 6

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Nu Woman

Contents

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38 73 Erica Morris 75 Tara Deal 76 Toni Mitchell 81 Terneille “Tada” Burrows

Entertainment 85 Can you say Babalu?

Babalu is the latest hot spot in the downtown area 86 Restaurant ReviewNoelle Nicholls gives a review of Babalu Caribbean Bar and Grill.

83 Lerielle Cole

LIFESTYLES 57 Woman’s conference gives rise to a sisterhood of Goddess Art 60 Jux-tie-positionErin Greene displays her collection at the Hub.

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NU WOMAN MAGAZINE Available locally at: Lowes Pharmacy - Harbour Bay United Bookshop - Marathon Mall Logos Bookstore - Harbour Bay Chapter One Bookstore - Oakes Field Wongs Bookstore- top of Hill Mackey St City Market Food stores Atlantis Resort - Royal Towers sundry Super Value Food stores Also available in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

CONTACT US AT: TEL: (242) 424-9879 OR EMAIL US AT: nuwomanbs@gmail.com On the web: http://WWW.NUWOMANBS.COM , also check us out on www. BahamasLocal.com

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009 was a difficult year for many; we here in the Bahamas finally tasted recession. Despite all of this, many positive things came to the forefront. I believe that we as Bahamians developed a greater sense of community, an understanding that we need each other to move forward and survive. The term “No man is an island” was never more apparent.

In spite of the recession, life went on; we saw the opening of many new businesses and the continued success of others, with events such as Islands of the World Fashion Week and the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) still managing to hold their own.

In this issue, we feature exclusive footage from Islands of the World Fashion Week, with Next Generation Award winner, Darcel de Vlugt, along with designers Sabrina Sturrup and Phylicia Ellis, all photographed

by Lyndah Wells. We cover several events from BIFF and talk with Bahamian writer and director, Kareem Mortimer whose film ‘Children of God’, premiered on opening night. We also feature Lenny Kravitz, who had his first acting role in ‘Precious’ - BIFF’s closing night film, and Johnny Depp who received the Career Achievement Award.

With 2010 rolling in, Nu Woman is focusing on Bahamian women. We talked with nine ‘21st Century’ Bahamian women - by birth or domicile- who are entrepreneurs, singers, actors, motivators and mothers.

We showcase Jux-tie-position, a local exhibit held at The Hub, as well as Babalu Caribbean Bar and Grill, a place that provides a venue for local talent to be seen; we also talk with the creators of BahamasLocal.com; and Leah Larwood, from our Fall 2009 issue, concludes her story on her first New York City marathon.

We hope that you enjoy this jammed pack issue and look forward to feedback from you.

Wishing you all the best in 2010!

Erica Meus-Saunders Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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Nu Woman

Contributors DWAYNE DELANCY 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. In the Dwayne covered events from Islands of The World Fashion Week and well as Bahamas International Film Festival.

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

MAGGIE BAIN Maggie Bain is an Individual and Couples Relationship Therapist. She is also a Registered Nurse, Midwife and Certified Critical Care Nurse trained in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and London. Following years of interest in human sexuality she was accepted by Dr.Susan Lee at the Florida Sex Therapy Institute to train as a Clinical Sex Therapist. Maggie is now Florida Board Certified and is also a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists.

She writes a regular column titled Loving Relationships for the health section of the Tribune newspaper. Maggie is also a public speaker and organizes workshops on relationship issues.

Born in Nigeria but raised in Scotland Maggie came to the Bahamas in 1988 on a two year work contract as an Intensive Care Nurse at Princess Margaret Hospital. She soon met her Bahamian husband and they have two sons.

KESHLAH SMITH From the tender age of 8, Keshlah knew that she wanted to be a chef. Keshlah, who is the 2nd oldest of 4 children, was raised in a single parent household. On finishing high school she attended Bahamas Hotel Training College (BHTC) for culinary training. On completion of the program at BHTC she was accepted at Westminster University in England, where she pursued a BA in Culinary Arts and Restaurant. After completion of her BA she returned home and worked for several places to gain needed experience, and then decided to open her own business - Essence Catering.

Essence Catering offers restaurant consultation, healthy meal planning, and just recently ‘Dream Dinners’ - healthy gourmet meals at affordable prices for busy families.

GEJONTE’ BAIN As a pioneer of individualism and one who possesses a keen interest in elevating herself while maximizing her full potential, Gejonte’ is indeed a force to reckon with! She is multifaceted, gifted with Ebony beauty, exceptionally talented, and continuously strives for excellence. Presently, a Croupier at Kerzner International, and an entrepreneur, she is currently perfecting the art of airbrush make-up artistry and Color Illusion. She is set to launch her own cosmetics line in the fall of 2010. Her inspiration and motivation comes from her 3-year-old son, Zyon Alexander.

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Nu Woman

Contributors NATASHA BROWN- is our Health and Fitness Expert. Natasha is the owner of Natbro’s Personal Training and Fitness Studio. She was the national fitness champion for 20022003, and the first and only Gold Medalist in the tall class fitness category of the C.A.C. Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships held in Caracas, Venezuela back in September of 2002. She is also the second Bahamian, but the first Bahamian female to have received their professional status in the sport. Before accepting her pro card, she was advised to compete at the Pan Am Games and is now competing on a professional level.

PHILLIPPA MICHEL Phillippa Michel did her first photo shoot for Nu Woman Magazine in the Fall 2007 issue, where she photographed Portia Nottage, John Michel and Natasha Brown. In this issue Phillippa photographed several events from Bahamas International Film Festival. Phillippa earned her first cover this past summer. She is married to John Michel.

NOELLE NICOLLS- is a young Pan-Caribbean writer trained as a professional journalist, although she would likely say: “I am infinite and divine feminine energy from West of West Africa. I am Woman of steel, full of love, laughter and light.” Noelle graduated from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Media and Communication (Hons.), with a specialization in Print and Online Media, and a Minor in Cultural Studies.

Her professional credits include working as a communication consultant for corporate clients and serving as a leading entrepreneur working in the Bahamas, Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, having launched two small businesses shortly after graduating from university. Her writing has been published in newspapers, magazines and online publications.

LYNDAH WELLS - A self-described gym addict. Lyndah was born in Lagos, raised in London and relocated to Freeport Bahamas after she met her now husband. With a degree in Furniture design and a diploma in Residential Interior Design, Lyndah loves all creative challenges. Working as freelance Graphic designer & Photographer for thebahamasweekly. com, and for her own companies L A I DESIGN & Luxe 716, she lists her 3 loves as; travel, fashion & photography. In this issue Lyndah earned her first cover and has an exclusive photo spread with models and designer from Islands of the World Fashion Week.

To contact Lyndah check out the website: http://www.shutterchance.com Or email lyndahwellsphoto@gmail.com BEVERLY J. PEDROCHE-FORSYTHE, Psy.D. - Born and raised in The Bahamas, Beverly Pedroche-Forsythe received her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in 2007. Dr. Pedroche-Forsythe‘s research and clinical work, written publications and international presentations have focused on adult survivors of childhood trauma, including sexual, physical and emotional abuse and neglect, and survivors of single-event traumas such as motor vehicle crashes, assault, and rape. Dr. Pedroche-Forsythe has also received extensive training in and, therefore, expanded her clinical work to include dissociative disorders, domestic violence, affective disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and self-injurious behaviors. Email:bevjoy101574@ aol.com.

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THE VIRGIN MARATHON RUNNER Part II

By Leah Larwood

I

n the fall issue of NU Woman, I set out on a quest to run my first marathon to prove that the average woman can ‘Just Do It!’ and to encourage ladies out there to pull on their Nikes and put their mettle to the test.

My debut was at the 40th New York Marathon in November 2009 and despite catching the flu twice and cracking a rib (don’t ask!) before the big day, I am proud to say that I crossed the finish line in Central Park within 5 and a half hours.

As you can imagine, high-fives, dances of joy and “I knew you could do it” were aplenty at the finish line, but this was not quite the scene one month before the race. To put it lightly, I was in a mild state of panic. A week or so leading up to the race, I was a nervous wreck, and on the day itself, I was so petrified I could hardly speak. It is normal for any virgin marathon runner to have a case of the nerves, but the lack of training following my illnesses and injury had left me with some serious doubts as to whether I would actually be fit enough to finish the course. You just do not know what to expect and if you are not fully prepared then anything can happen? Would I collapse of de-

hydration or fatigue en route? Or drink too much water and develop hyponatremia? Could 30 year olds have a heart attack? Mini-dramas aside, I had to start thinking practically - “If I don’t feel up to it, I’ll walk it, no matter how long it takes!” After all, I had spent 8 hours solid on my feet shopping in London one Christmas. This motto got me through the build-up to the big day. Luckily, a couple of days before the race I was also told that 98.8% of people finish the marathon. This gave me more of a boost than any energy supplement ever could; although it did not cure the speech problem that I had developed on the day of the race.

Despite my race-day jitters, I was also bubbling with excitement and soaking up the atmosphere as much as I could. Part of me could not wait to get started and over the finish line into the arms of a large glass of white wine whereas a bigger part of me, wanted to savour the experience and enjoy the journey running through unfamiliar territory.

Now that I am no longer a ‘Virgin Marathon Runner’, you cannot stop me talking about it, and I am happy to tell anyone who will listen about the trials and tribulations of running 26.2 miles. Although, during the last few miles of the race when my legs and feet felt like they were running through treacle, I swore that this was a once in a life time deal; but now, writing this article one month later, I’m starting to reconsider my position on the matter.

So the question on every virgin marathon runner’s lips: how do you survive a marathon?

Invest in a good pair of running shoes. They will become your good friend. I was told many horror stories about marathon running causing giant blisters the size of your hand and multiple

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toenails turning black and falling off. I bought a pair of Pegasus Nike running shoes, and I am pleased to report that my size sevens came unscathed with only a few muscular aches and pains post-race and toenails intact.

Make sure you eat a meal fit for a champion the evening before. In general, women are always being told to avoid carbs but when it comes to marathon running, carbohydrates are your friend ladies! An early large pasta dinner the night before the race is a good way to build up your glucose levels. A few hours before the race, I ate two bananas, a bagel, a carb-loaded Power Bar and, mainly for nerves, two cups of strong milky tea. I was full of energy and ready to roll.

See what your body thinks about energy gels before the race. During your long training runs, it is advisable to get your body used to isotonic carbohydrate energy gels, which are packed with carbs, sugars, sodium and some-

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times caffeine. If your body is not used to these gels then you can sometimes find, as I did, that you are stopping off at every possible portable toilet stop on the course for a comfort break.

Hmm, lesson learned.

Warming up properly before the race is very important. As I was performing my knee stretches up against an unsuspecting tree in Staten Island waiting to be called to the start line, none other than Paula Radcliffe, the female marathon world record holder, sprinted past with two body guards and a cop bike following behind. ‘OMG’ I thought, as my banana fell out of my mouth, ‘that was PAULA!’ I was almost tempted to have her sign my vest for luck, but I thought better of it, took a deep breath whilst my cool streak retuned, and carried on nonchalantly with my stretches.

There is just one last piece of advice that I think makes all the difference in finishing the course. Wear your name on your vest. The organisers do not supply you with a named vest, so have yours printed or attached to your running top. You will receive the most unbelievable support from the crowds.

From start to finish, I had groups of complete strangers of different ages, shapes and sizes call out: “GO LEAH, GO LEAH” and “YOU GOT IT, YOU GOT IT LEAH” or my favourite: “YOU OWN THIS CONCRETE LEAH, WORK IT, WORK IT GIRL!” which was then followed up by several high-fives and whoops from the crowd. It kept me smiling and you cannot help but feel like a celebrity walking the red carpet, even if you are sweating profusely and have left your most winning smile back at the start line. Many people adorn their country’s flag or a slogan to their outfits and it is a fun thing to do, and certainly gets you noticed. A Japanese guy ran the entire way carrying an enormous flag and bare foot and I saw a woman’s t-shirt that amused me - on her t-shirt it read: ‘I’m not sweating, it’s just my fat cells crying’. Brilliant!

I started to feel slightly queasy after consuming the never-ending supply of sugary energy gels and drinks being offered to me during the race. Therefore, I stopped accepting them at the 9-mile mark. Then at the 15-mile mark, I ran out of gas. In fact, I had ‘hit the wall’ as the marathon lingo goes, and early. Usually it is around the 18mile mark that people begin to become unstuck. Up until this point, the race had been enjoyable and I had kept up a good pace despite the toilet stops. However, moments after crossing the 15-mile mark, I burst

into tears. I was close to throwing in the towel.

But, losers quit when they are tired, winners never quit. I do not know how I continued, but it helped that my fiancé ran the marathon with me and stuck by my side throughout the entire thing; his pep talks, gags and support made all the difference. During the last five or so miles, I began to see the light at the end of the tunnel and the feeling of relief and joy started to replace the dark place I had been occupying for the 15-20 mile stretch. ‘Phew, I think I am going to make it’, my heart, lungs, legs and feet all sang simultaneously.

It was monumental when I finally reached the finishing line. There was a point when I thought I would not make it, and at the time, I seriously did not want to put myself through something like that ever again. Once I had crossed the line, I was in cloud nine and ex-

perienced the most overwhelming feeling of pride and satisfaction; all of my hard work had paid off and I was so relieved that I had made it. I was grinning permanently for at least the next 7 days.

So if you are tempted to enter Nassau’s first marathon since 1985, on February 14th - here is your chance, take the leap! You are likely to surprise yourself and have a ball whilst doing it. Marathon running gives you such an incredible high it is pretty easy to become slightly addicted. I have been googling other locations and have discovered that in June 2010 there is a marathon in Rio. Yes, it is too late folks, I have the marathon bug. This could be the start of a beautiful relationship, a journey to complete a marathon in every continent. Hmm, now there’s a thought.

Leah Larwood and fiance’ at the finish of the race.

Photos provided by Leah Larwood.

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21st Century

Bahamian women

s a e ey n k E c o J Leah r, Disc

ge n i s , r Acto

Photo by Margo Burrows

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Nu Woman Magazine wanted to start the New Year on a great note and decided to feature the following nine Bahamian women whose talents and contributions, we hope, will inspire and encourage you: • Leah Eneas, actor and performer • Wendy Coakley-Thompson, seasoned writer • Tara Deal, graphic artist • Michelle Hanna, poet and performer • Abigail Farrington, a working mother who went back to school and became a lawyer • Erica Morris, creator of Nahbulunge Apparel • Toni Mitchell, who makes her own greeting cards • Terneille “Tada” Burrows, singer and producer • Lerielle Cole, creator of Final Accents Boutiq.

LEAH ENEAS Leah Eneas is a twenty-six year old entertainer who grew up in Mount Pleasant Village in New Providence. Leah made her theatrical debut at the Dundas Centre in Nassau at the age of ten in the musical “All My Chirren”, a Bahamian parody. Leah, who majored in Dramatics and Speech/Dance and graduated from Fisk University (one of the top 5 Historically Black Colleges and University), says she had no idea what she wanted to do until she went to Fisk University.

“I never saw anything I really liked while

in high school. I fell in love with ballerinas when I was very young and my dad put me in dance classes when I was nine years old. I began performing when I was ten years old and I stuck with the dancing up until I went to college. I had to make a decision about my major once I got to Fisk; I was going to become a dentist like my father and grandfather.

However, due to a late plane ride and fate, all of the classes I needed to take me in the direction of dentistry were closed. I took dance, art and acting to pass the time and get a few credits. That’s when I realized that I could do what came naturally to me as a major!

Imagine my surprise! I had no idea that I could sing, act and dance at the same time. I later made it my career after returning to Nassau.”

Leah has performed in a number of plays including, ‘Once on this Island’, ‘The Colored Museum’, ‘Gospel at Colonus’, ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’, ‘Women Talk’, Winston Saunders’ ‘You Can Lead a Horse to Water’, and Nicolette Bethel’s‘The Children’s Teeth’. In May of 2002, Eneas became aware of her comedic talents and incorporated her spontaneous and funny nature into a music showcase called, ‘Da S.P.O.T.’ with Kyra Fraser, Alan Jones, and Jason Evans. The show has since then become a heavily followed comedy and music show in Nassau, Bahamas and has since finished its seventh season in August 2009.

Leah reveals that she has recently wrapped her debut American feature film directed by Michael Sellers, ‘Way of the Dolphin’ (recently renamed ‘Beneath the Blue’), playing the character, Elizabeth Duvey and was the only Bahamian cast with a major speaking role.

The Interview NW: Who influenced you?

Leah: My grandmother has a Masters in Music from Fisk University and her mother was a singer. My father, aunt, and uncle, even though they are doctors, are all wonderful singers. My grandfather played the violin and my brother is a great poet. I was influenced without even realizing that I was being influenced.

My family has always been a fantastic support system for me and they never discouraged anything that I have ever wanted to do. That helped me to better understand myself and become what I was always supposed to be.

the age of fifteen.

NW: What other skills do you have?

Leah: I sing from time to time. I started singing publicly, besides church, in Nashville, Tennessee at Kijiji’s Cafe on Jefferson Street. Since then, I’ve performed with a reggae band, a jazz band, and a hip hop band.

I also paint and do crochet work - I make bags, hats, scarfs, dresses etc. I have been in Radio since 2006. I thoroughly enjoy being on the radio so I plan to take that to the next level as soon as possible.

NW: What are your latest projects, and also tell me something of past work.

Leah: I finished my first American feature film, ‘Beneath the Blue’ in January of this year (2009). Currently, I co-host a radio show with my brother, Anku Sa Ra, called ‘Plugged In’ on Island 102.9 FM every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m.

NW: What is your definition of a 21st Century Bahamian woman?

Leah: Well, I’m sitting around my father and his friends at the moment. If I told you what they were saying at this point about the topic, you would probably never interview me again. Ha!! I personally think the 21st Century Bahamian woman is very independent minded and career driven.

NW: Do you think that the role of women in our society has changed? Expand on this if you can.

Leah: Women in our society have always been very strong and in control of their households and their own lives. The only thing that has changed is the way women carry their roles. Women use to lead quietly in the background but women are now much more outspoken about their role in our society today.

Leah has also been signed as the local phone company, BTC’s spokesperson for the ‘Vibe’ connect campaign and is featured on the covers of Nu Woman’s 2009 winter issue and the internet magazine, STYLEZINE’s July 2009 issue. Keep an eye on Leah, her star is rising and you never know what she’s going to do next!

NW: What was the first job that you got as an actress?

Leah: My first paying job as an actress was in a comedy show I helped to start here in Nassau in 2002 called, ‘Da S.P.O.T.’ However, I’ve been acting since 17

Wendy Coakley-Thompson Author WENDY COAKLEY-THOMPSON “TRIPTYCH” Wendy Coakley-Thompson is the author of “Back to Life” (2004 Romantic Times Award Nominee) and “What You Won’t Do For Love” and she is the contributing editor of the anthology “How We Love: Letters and Lessons for the Next Generation.” She has also written for music fashion and lifestyle magazine in New Jersey and the Bahamas. Wendy was born in Brooklyn but moved to Nassau with her family when she was three-years old and lived here until her late teens.

I met Wendy late last year at a book signing of her latest book “Triptych” at Starbuck in Oakes Field. She was gracious enough to have a conversation about her latest book. Wendy is one of our featured 21st Century Bahamian women.

cancer and how to deal with the issue, with family, and basically, when it comes right down to it, how do you say goodbye.

So this character Jonathan, he and his wife have been married for 10 years. When Jonathan finds out that he has cancer he asks his cousin Tim to insure the welfare of his wife and family in a very unorthodox way.

Nu Woman: How long did it take you to write this book?

Nu Woman: What is TRIPTYCH about?

Wendy: Triptych is a story about death and infidelity, what would you do for someone you love. The tagline is ‘Death and infidelity. Straight up. With an erotic twist.’

Nu Woman: Have you always been a writer?

Wendy: Yes, but not always a good one (laughter).

Nu Woman: How did the story of Triptych develop?

Wendy: Well, I have had this character Jonathan for quite a while. I started writing when I was 11 years old, but a lot of the stories were, you know ‘I’m 11’. What experiences do I have? But this character Jonathan has been with me for quite some time. In the Fall of 2006, I had a breast cancer scare, but I was fortunate, everything worked out.

I wanted to explore a character who was fighting

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Wendy: Well, I had the proposal already written down, but it took me a month. I joined something called the National Novel Writing Month

(www.nanowrimo.org) every November, and the challenge is that you to get a novel out of yourself. So I did it for that. Of course I got it out of me, cleaned it up and checked my facts. By January, I had it cleaned up.

NW: Who published it for you?

Wendy: Infinity Publishing published it for me.

NW: Where do you live?

Wendy: I live in Alexandria, Virginia. I have a mainstream publisher for the other two books.

When I started shopping this book around, people were telling me that nobody wanted to read a book that was not based in the USA. They were telling me that people don’t know anything about the Bahamas, they want to read a book that is set in Jamaica. I was very offended by that. The Bahamas is only miles from Miami, and I felt strongly about these characters and said that I would put it out there myself. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Cancer Society of the Bahamas, and another portion of the net proceeds goes to an organization called 365 Pink.

NW: From this story I get the impression that you are married, or have been married before.

If so, how has this influenced your writing?

Wendy: It’s interesting that you would get the impression that I was or had been married from Triptych. I guess that’s the sign of a good writer, because I’ve never been married. I have, though, seen healthy relationships between married folks.

I also understand the basic premise of promising your life to another person, for better or for worse. I presume that it’s my understanding of that promise that permeates Triptych.

NW: Had you not had the scare with cancer do you think that you would have written this book? How has that experience influenced this book?

Wendy: It’s hard to say. I probably would have written the book, but I question whether or not I would have been able to speak about the toll of cancer from such an informed place. Having had the cancer scare enabled me to understand the fear of not being there for your loved ones and to be able to contemplate a world that goes on without you. Fortunately, the lump in my breast was benign. But that fear of cancer and the introspection it brought about did not go away. Not by any stretch of the imagination.

NW: How does the family unit/structure in this book compare to your family and growing up here?

Wendy: I definitely modeled the Lambs of Lewis Street in Triptych after my own family, the Coakleys of Lewis Street. My grandparents’ home on Lewis Street was the nucleus of my family when I was growing up. I could not imagine not coming from a big family – on both the Coakley and the Thompson sides. There’s a sense of belonging that you get…of having roots. I could be anywhere and know that my family is there for me.

I always know that I can come home to them. I wanted to share that with my readers. I can so identify with Tim, the character in the book. He was born in Canada and had lived everywhere.

He doesn’t feel loved and alive though, until he returns to the Bahamas.

NW: Are you often homesick?

Wendy: Definitely!

NW: What do you miss most about the Bahamas?

Wendy: Naturally, I miss my family and that sense of connection. America can be so big and impersonal sometimes. I miss having the support system of my family around. Fortunately, I have two cousins here in the Washington D.C. area.

They help to keep me connected to my roots. Plus, I’m at just about every function that the Embassy of the Bahamas in DC hosts. That helps me get my Bahamas on!

NW: Would you come back here to live?

Wendy: I never say never. With the cutting edge technology that we all have access to, along with online social networking, I probably can write anywhere and still be able to access my base of readers. However, right now, it’s more expedient to stay here in America.

NW: Do you think that Bahamian society is changing, and it what ways?

Wendy: Yes, Bahamian society is definitely changing – for better and for worse. I’d say better, because the Bahamas is benefiting from technology and from globalization in positive ways. This enables our people to become exposed to different cultures, to raise their expectations, and to broaden their horizons. Unfortunately, I don’t see the emphasis on education that existed when I was a kid. I have also witnessed the erosion of Bahamian culture by external influences from the United States and other parts of the West Indies, which is just as tragic.

NW: Do you have kids?

Wendy: No, I have no children. Up until last

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week, I had a yellow Labrador Retriever named Hunter. Unfortunately, because of problems from his advanced age, I had to put him to sleep. So, I do have practice, should I ever decide to become someone’s mother!

Wendy Coakley-Thompson, PhD Author, Triptych, Back to Life, and What You Won’t Do For Love Examiner.com, DC Publishing Industry Examiner www.wendycoakley-thompson.com www.examiner.com/x-6658-DC-Publishing-Industry-Examiner www.myspace.com/wendycoakleythompson www.facebook.com/wendycoakleythompson http://twitter.com/coakleythompson http://wendycoakley-thompson.blogspot.com

continued on page 26

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ERIC RAISINA Islands of the World Fashion Week By

Erica Meus-Saunders 2009 Islands of the World Fashion Week (IWFW) was downscaled from last year’s 38 designers’ lineup, but it proved just as successful. The show ran November 5th-7th and gave designers, models, audience and press a chance for better interaction - a more intimate show.

Eric Raisina traveled all the way from Madagascar to showcase his collection at IWFW 2009. Eric Raisina took home top honours as he won both the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award and one of the four Seals of Excellence Awards. The Sustainable EcoFashion Award was given for effectively using environmentally friendly products while incorporating environmental or social issues into designs. Raisina won for his outfit called African Lace, which includes a crocheted raffia dress, raffia and silk organza hat, and a silk organza scarf. Eric took a moment to talk about his designs and the show.

NW: Tell me a little about your collection. First of all, how long have you been designing?

Eric: My first collection was in 1993. I just wanted to explore because my passion was culinary arts not fashion at the beginning. When I was fourteen years old, I loved to work with the sewing machine, so I started to do my own clothing and then sisters, friends and many people around said if you can do that why not do that for us.

I showcased my first collection in Madagascar in 1993 and I won the young designer first prize. Then I went to Paris and I realized that maybe I can do this job.

NW: How long did it take you to get this collection together for Islands of the World?

Eric: Well, a long, long time. Everything that I am doing is my own textile, so it is coming from the weaving and the dyeing, so the process is quite long. To get all of the pieces and things took me about three months, but I did have a team working on it everyday from morning to night.

NW: So where are you stationed? Or are you in several places?

Eric: I am between Madagascar, my country, and Cambodia. Madagascar has this very unique identity between Africa and Asia, and so that is the reason why I’m between the two continents - Asia and Africa.

NW: Would you say that this is the inspiration behind your designs?

Eric: Yes. My main inspiration is Madagascar; it is my country and I love my country. We do have something very unique in Madagascar in terms of the way that Madagascar have these two influences from Africa and Asia makes it really strong.

NW: What do you think of this experience at IWFW compared to some of the other fashion shows that you have participated in?

Eric: Lovely! I thought this was lovely because every show that is done in a different location is always a new experience. To see my dresses with different models from different Islands, that is so lovely and to meet designers from different islands.

NW: How do you feel about the awards that you have won? Are you excited?

Eric: Listen. I was a bit surprised and very happy. I just want to say that the two awards go to my team and my family. My family is always supporting me with everything that I am doing and of course my team because without my team I cannot really do this alone.

And to all of the young designers in the world who want to explore, fashion is hard, it is difficult; we know that, but we just need to have a passion and then you can do something with fashion.

NW: Thank you for your time.

Eric: Thank you very much.

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Eric Raisina with female muse winner Diovara Photo by Dwayne Delancy

Eric Raisina with models wearing his designs from Islands of the World Fashion Week 2009 Photo by Dwayne Delancy

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Designs by Eric Raisina displayed at the 2nd Annual IWFW in Nassau, Bahamas.

Photographed by Dwayne Delancy

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2nd Annual Islands of The world fashion week Photographed by Dwayne Delancy

Murielle Leconte

Henry Jackson

K-BOBBY

Murielle Leconte

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SPICE BOX

I CANDY

B MICHAEL

Harl Taylor Bags

Patrick LaFrontiere

Hesani Cay 25

21st CENTURY Bahamian Women cont’d AL N I G I B A INGTO FARR

A

bigail Farrington has worked at the Atlantis Casino for 17 years as a croupier but said that she has always had an interest in a career in law.

“I was interested in a career in law for a very long time. Shortly after leaving High School I worked at a leading law firm as a legal search clerk. I found the work very interesting and fulfilling.

It was then that I became interested in becoming a lawyer. However at the time I did not have the financial resources to pursue studies in law. Eventually, I got married and started my family and law was put on the “back burner”. Then in 2001, my interest was rekindled when both my sister and brother went off to school to study law. It was then that I made up my mind that it was now or never.”

Abigail is one of our featured 21st Century Bahamian women. She sat and talked with Nu Woman about her journey to fulfilling a life-long dream.

NW: What route did you take in pursuing your career in law? How long did it take?

Abby: There are several routes one can take and some routes are longer than others. However, before one is accepted into law school one has to first obtain a Bachelors Degree in Law (LLB). The prerequisite for getting into the LLB program is that one must have an Associate’s degree, an equivalent or better in any subject area, or one must be a mature student with work experience. Since I wanted to stay at home with my family and retain my job as a croupier I looked for a program that would allow me to do this. So, the route I pursued took me seven years.

First, I obtained my Associates in Law and Criminal Justice from the Bahamas Baptist Community College, Nassau Bahamas, which took me two years. I then entered the Bachelors of Law (LLB) Program, at the University of the West Indies, College of the Bahamas (COB) campus, Nassau Bahamas, which is a three year program.

Once I obtained my LLB, which qualified me to attend law school at the Eugene Dupuch Law School, Nassau Bahamas, where I obtained my Legal Education Certificate. This is a two year program where, upon

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completion, one is qualified to be called to the Bahamas Bar and to practice law within the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

NW: What type of law did you study?

Abby: I studied criminal law and various areas of civil law. However, my main focus was in the areas of international law and international trade.

Ultimately, I would like to represent the Bahamas at the United Nations.

NW: How difficult was it to juggle school work with family and casino life?

Abby: It was very difficult to juggle family, school and casino life. I could not have done it without the full support of my family and friends. I would attend classes in the day and work the night shifts at the Casino. While attending law school, I would have to get up at 6:00 every morning to drop the children off at their respective schools and then arrive at my school for 8:00 a.m. I would usually collect the children from school at about 3:30 - 4:00 p.m., attempt to get about two hours nap until 6:00 and then get ready, so as to arrive at work for 8:00 p.m. The 8:00 p.m. shift ends at 4:00 a.m. or, if I am lucky, a little earlier. Thus, I would probably arrive home at about 4:30 - 5:00 a.m., get maybe an hour to two hours sleep and the day starts all over again. Any studies and assignments were done during breaks between classes and on the weekends. Time for leisure and household chores were virtually non-existent. For the most part, my husband would help the children with homework and I would assist whenever I could.

NW: Will you go full-time into law now?

Abby: Presently, I am still employed at the casino; however, I do intend to practice law full-time.

NW: What advice would you give to women who have a family and want to go back to school?

Abby: I would encourage any woman who wishes to empower themselves through education to do so, as someone once said, ‘nine-tenths of education is encouragement.’ Although rearing a family, working, and schooling will undoubtedly pose some challenges, through the encouragement and support of your family and through prayer, you will persevere.

The key to success as a career and family woman is to first get the support of your family and then manage your time wisely. Plan every step carefully, stay organized and compensate wherever you can for lost family time.

Photos by Dwayne Delancy

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Michelle Hanna

The Interview NW: How long have you been writing poetry?

Michelle: I’ve been writing poetry since 2002.

NW: Are you stationed in the Bahamas? If not, where?

Michelle: Yes, I am stationed in The Bahamas.

NW: How long did it take you to compile this book of poems?

Michelle: It took me two years to compile all of the poems for “Awakening the Other Side.”

M

ichelle Hanna is another of our featured 21st Century Bahamian women. Michelle is both a poet and a performer. She self-published her first book of poems entitled “Awakening the Other Side” in 2004. Michelle talks about the process, her book and also shares a poem with us.

Michelle who started “Poetic Breeze”, an expression night at Babalu Caribbean Bar and Grill on Long Whaft, West Bay Street, performs every Monday from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

NW: How difficult was it to get it published?

Michelle: I self-published. Around the end of August 2004, someone suggested that I should publish my poems, that it would make a great Christmas gift. Once I had decided to self-publish the book, everything fell into place. I created a publishing corporation - In Time Publications.

I already had an idea for the book; I wanted art illustrations to go alongside some of the poems.

I came in contact with an old friend I grew up with, Earle Bethell; he painted all of the illustrations except for the one I did. Within three months, from August to November, everything was done. “Awakening the Other Side” was published, printed and delivered to me by November 9th, 2004 - just in time for the 2004 Miami Book Fair International that took place that weekend and where I launch “Awakening the Other Side.” I was so inspired. It did not feel difficult; it felt like an adventure. When a problem came, I worked around it and it came out better than intended.

NW: Where does your inspiration come from?

Michelle: My inspiration comes from love, life experiences and spirituality.

NW: Tell me about the poem that you have chosen in this issue?

Michelle: In a world that is unpredictable, one thing is for sure an ‘Undying love’, which seems to be a rarity these days. I think societal outlook seems to choose pleasure and the material over principles and values, and love seems to take second place. For me, this poem illustrates a longing

for true love, a love that is timeless, effortless and priceless.

NW: What inspired you to write this poem?

Michelle: The concept for this poem came to me when I was in New York City, I went there alone, surrounded by unfamiliar people; I wanted to write a poem about love and being in need of love.

“Undying” Where can I find you, love For I’ve walked among your people

NW: What is it that you want people to take away from this collection?

Michelle: Each poem was written from an emotional and spiritual point of view. I want readers to see their own experiences through their eyes from my eyes, whether it’s a poem about “Love Triangle”, “Love Like Before”, “Over You” or “Spiritual Connection”. I want readers to find themselves in any one of the poems.

And in your town, yet could not be found

NW: Where can your books be purchased?

Michelle: The books are sold in the local bookstores - Chapter One, Logos Book Store, The Island Book Shop, Nassau Stationers and online at Amazon.com.

Of all that needs to be

NW: What are you working on now?

Michelle: I am currently working on another poetry book, a spoken word CD (a collection of poetry from Awakening the Other Side) and a play.

On Poetic Breeze NW: Whose idea was it to start Poetic Breeze?

Michelle: It was a team effort - myself, Mario the percussionist, and Van the MC/Host.

NW: What is the object of Poetic Breeze?

Michelle: Poetic Breeze is a platform where artists/performers can display their talents. Poets, singers, artists, musicians, dancers, etc. are welcome.

NW: If I were a local artist or performer and wanted to participate what should I do, who do I contact?

Michelle: Come out to Babalu on Mondays at 8:30 p.m.; all material must be clean. For more information contact Michelle at mhanna05@hotmail.com.

NW: Is there a fee or cover charge, etc.?

Michelle: Admission is FREE. For more on Poetic Breeze visit Babalu’s facebook page- http://www.facebook.com/ pages/Nassau-The-Bahamas/Nassau-Babalu/162145078434

Until love surrenders, from a distance I linger Not to wait in vain, I pray I hope fate delivers you my way But until time is in line and calculations I’ll step into what is truly mine Whenever you need love, you’ll find me For many moons have shone And its kisses have been blown I view your eyes in a dying sun, That is continually reborn With the passing of time, love will still show Like the sun faithful in its burning glow Even if I don’t possess your love It doesn’t stop the love that flows It will never cease, love goes on until eternity And it doesn’t depend on you loving me It is strong, yet it yearns, to love and be loved in return

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BahamasLocal.com ‘242’Business Directory and Search Engine What is BahamasLocal.com?

CEO and founder Jason Mcdowall attempts to explain all that encompasses BahamasLocal.com.

“I came up with the concept. I had moved here and was searching the internet for stuff in the Bahamas and my searches were coming up with zero results.

Many Bahamian based businesses do not have websites, which mean they do not have an online presence, and will not be found in search engines such as Google and Msn. After not being able to find anything, I came up with the idea for BahamasLocal.com. It was to give every Bahamian business or business based in the Bahamas an online presence. Therefore, when anyone in the Bahamas is looking for that business they will be able to find it.

Jason says that the company was born 3 years ago but was not launched until April 2009. It has been an ongoing process to build it. Many times website

companies will build a website and then launch without having enough information for people to go and browse. We had close to 15,000 businesses in the system before we launched.”

Nu Woman Magazine sat and talked with the three men behind the company: Jason McDowall - CEO and founder; Dayne D’Aguilar- Director; and Kurt Melnechek- Director of Sales and Marketing.

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NW: What improvements have you seen in the last three years in relation to Bahamians and internet advertising?

Jason: More and more Bahamians and more residents of the Bahamas are now going online. Before they could not find businesses and companies in the Bahamas, now they are beginning to find them and the internet is being used almost everyday. Today almost everyone in an office uses the internet, COB students use the internet, and there are more internet cafes such as Starbucks popping up. You visit a Starbucks and almost everyone has a laptop browsing online. So it’s becoming more a way of life.

NW: So if I were a local business man/woman and wanted to advertise or list my business with BahamasLocal, I would visit the website and then what?

Jason: There are two services that we offer: 1. You can list your business and this is free, and includes your business name, address, telephone number, P.O.Box, email address and your website if you have one. You can also put a description of your business or services that you offer and this is also completely free.

2. If you want to enhance your listing you can call our sales department or give Kurt (director of sales and marketing) a call. He can then offer your business more enhancements and this can be done in the form of banner advertisements.

We have different packages on the website to accommodate your various budgets.

NW: How does your advertisement prices compare to other local media outlets, such as the newspaper or radio?

Jason: Well, compared to other forms of advertisement, we are the most value for money. Our advertisement, for example a banner ad for a month, is up for a complete month. It is not up for 30 seconds or just one day. Therefore, you are getting more value for money. If you visit our page and scroll down to the bottom, you will see a link at the bottom to advertise on Bahamas Local. We have packages to suit every business from a small business to a large busi-

ness. Another thing to note is that we can put your business banner in areas that work, for example if your business is a restaurant, we can put your banner in the restaurant section.

Director Dayne D’Aguilar talks about his role “About two years ago, Jason and his associates approached my brother and I to invest in Bahamas Local. We came in and financed the company. Jason runs the company and I try to provide any sort of business direction. We sit and talk about the different directions we are going to go in.

NW: Are there any other businesses that you are involved in?

Dayne: Well our core business is Superwash. We also have a commercial exterminating business and there are one or two other companies that we operate. When they approached us, we looked at it and thought it was a good idea and we tried to provide the knowledge of the local market.

NW: Are there any marketing schemes for 2010?

What is on the agenda for BahamasLocal?

Jason: Yes, we have a lot of new stuff coming out on the website in 2010, some we cannot say as yet.

tion, as this is the market, that is most familiar with the internet.

Jason: Also, early next year we will be launching the job section; we have partnered with the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce.

Dayne: We are also going to be launching BahamaMail.com.

Jason: It is like your hotmail and gmail account. Bahamians like to have their own identity. Now, instead of john361@hotmail, they can also have john361@ bahamamail.com. We will also be launching an entertainment section. Kurt can explain what the entertainment section is all about.

Kurt: Well, essentially the idea is that the entertainment section is going to be a central focal point of entertainment, not only in Nassau, but in the whole the Bahamas. What we are focusing in on is the nightclub, bar, concerts and special events scene. There are tons and tons of promoters out there, who are pretty much plastering cars, handing flyers out everywhere.

There is no real central area that people can go to, to decide exactly where they want to go. What we are creating is a sort of focal point, where you will be able to tune into that, find out the goings on, what is happening at the various bars, restaurants clubs etc., as well as special events and concerts when they come up.

Atlantis Live is already one of our major advertisers. There acts will be featured in there as well, along with the rest of the promoters on the island. It is going to be nice; I think it should draw a hefty crowd, as users on a regular basis will want to see what’s hot and what’s coming up this week or this weekend.

Dayne: That goes along with one of our first projects, which was our association with Galleria, and From left to right: Jason McDowall, Dayne D’Aguilar and Kurt Melnechek that has proved to be Photos by Dwayne Delancy very successful. We have now become Dayne: Kurt is our marketing person, he is the one the official Galleria online site. People can go online who comes to us, and spear- heads any new ideas. and view the movies, this ties in with our entertainDayne: “We are a business directory” first and forement aspect and again with our desire to provide most, we are like Google. However, we do want to something for younger Bahamians. look at attracting perhaps a younger demographic, NWM so some of our projects this year will be in that direc31

Phylicia Ellis

Bahamian Designer

A

t 20 years of age, Phylicia Ellis was one of the youngest designers to present her collection at Islands of the World Fashion Week 2009. Phylicia who took a week off from Albright College in Reading Pennsylvania says that she has been designing for six years.

“I have been designing from the 11th grade and I started actually sewing for other people. I am in my fourth year of college, so that would be about six years since I’ve been designing.”

During Islands of the World Fashion Week 2009, Phylicia took a moment to sit and chat with Nu Woman about her experience.

NW: What was the inspiration for your collection?

Phylicia: The inspiration for my collection was to find something that basically moves (fabric, clothing), something that has texture and when you look at it, it definitely stands out and pops at you. Something that people would remember. That was my main focus in putting together the line.

I wanted it to be bold, but not bold with bright colours, bold with bronze and dark browns. Even though it is a simple colour, I still wanted to design it in a way where it still popped.

NW: This is your first major fashion show?

Phylicia: Yes, this is my first.

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NW: How has the experience been for you?

Phylicia: It was very exciting. It

has been a long, long process trying to juggle sewing and doing my studies. But at the end of the day, when it all came together it was definitely worth it, to see your models walk down and everything just coming together; the final look. It was exciting and I would definitely do it again.

NW: How long did it take you to put this collection together?

Phylicia: I started maybe the second week in September, and I had the collection finished by the end of October. I had to do final touches this week when I came, so about three months. I do not think it would have taken as long if I didn’t have to juggle schoolwork with sewing.

NW: What do you plan to do after IWFW? How much longer will you be in college?

Phylicia: I am trying to get in Caribbean Fashion Week, so that will be my next move. I still have a year left of college.

“I would say that you should go after what you want to do, if you have the passion, if your heart is in it, then do it!”

NW: So what will you be doing for the rest of the week here?

Phylicia: I will be enjoying the show. I’ll be coming to the show to see the other designers, and relax for a bit before I have to go back to school, and deal with my schoolwork.

NW: You are one of the youngest designers here. How would you sum up the whole experience of IWFW and what advice would you give to someone here who is trying to get into fashion, but is still a bit timid?

Phylicia: I would tell them to not let anyone discourage them, I think that it is important to put the feelings of other people aside and say look this is what I want to do, this is what I love to do, so if I love it, then I’m going to do it regardless of what people say. There have been many times when people say ‘I don’t know why you choose to do fashion’, but I say, ‘I know you don’t understand why but this is what I want to do, so if I succeed or fail, I’m going to do what I want to do.’ I would say that you should go after what you want to do, if you have the passion and if your heart is in it, then do it!

Check out the exclusive photo shoot with Phylicia Ellis’ designs that she displayed at Islands of the World Fashion Week 2009.

Models: Davia Chambers and Dyaria Knowles.

Locations: Sheraton, Cable Beach and Wyndham Nassau Resort, Nassau Bahamas.

Photographed by Lyndah Wells www.shutterchance.com

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Davia Chambers models Phylicia Ellis’ designs Location: Sheraton Cable Beach Make-up : Greg Williams of Flawless Management Inc, Barbados g.williams@flawlessmanagement.com Jewelry: Final Accents Boutiq www.finalaccentsaccessories.com Photographed by Lyndah Wells Lyndah Wells Photography

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Dyaria Knowles models Phylicia Ellis’ designs Location: Wyndham Nassau Resort Make-Greg Williams of Flawless Management Inc, Barbados Jewelry: Final Accents Boutiq Photographed by Lyndah Wells Lyndah Wells Photography

1. SIDE CRUNCH WITH DUMBBELL. Lie on your right side on the floor holding a dumbbell high in your left hand into the air, with your legs extended and slightly elevated. As you flex laterally at the waist, raise your torso and pause at the top. Slowly lower back to a starting position. Complete three to four sets of 10 to15 repetitions. Then repeat on the opposite side

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2. PUSH-UP WITH THREE BEAR CRAWLS. Lie in a prone position on the floor with your hands placed slightly wider than shoulderwidth apart. With your feet apart, get up on your toes and push your body away from the floor until your arms are straight, but not locked. Keeping your body straight and your elbows in close to your sides, bend your arms to lower your body toward the floor. Push yourself back to the starting position. Drive your right knee forward, keeping your left leg slightly bent at the back.

Continue driving forward, alternating legs as you crawl for three times then back into the push up position. Complete 10 to 12 reps for three to four sets

3. BENCH TIRE SQUATS WITH TIRE PRESS. Stand in an upright position and place the tire safely over your head to rest comfortably on top of the shoulders. Allow your hands to support the front part of the tire with elbows facing forward. Make sure your posture is erect as you prepare to squat parallel with the bench. As you squat, make sure to push your bottom to the back, as you sit into your heels and not your toes, and make sure not to push your knees forward. Slowly come back up to a standing position, regain your position with your tire as you press slowly in an upward motion. Lower and repeat. Complete 15 to 20 strong reps for three to four sets.

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4. TIRE LUNGES WITH PLATE DRAG. Start in an upright position placing the tire safely over your head. Stand with your feet in a staggered position and place either a 10 pound, 25 or 35 pound plate under your foot at the back, as you hold the tire firmly in the air.

Walk forward with the opposite foot into a front lunge followed by dragging the plate in a forward motion with your opposite foot. Repeat continuously for 12 to 15 reps while maintaining good body position. Take a one-minute rest and repeat with the other side.

5. SPEED SKATING UPHILL WITH MEDICINE TOUCH. Start at the bottom of the hill by warming up first with slight jogs up and down the hill. Follow by doing at least three to five stretches, especially your Achilles tendon. Once you have warmed up, start speed skating up the hill. As you hold the medicine ball with both hands, for every two speed skates, touch at the side with the medicine ball. Complete this motion all the way to the top of the hill and walk back slowly for recovery. Repeat four to six times.

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6. FROG JUMP WITH TIRE THROW. Before starting, place your tire about five footsteps in front of you. Standing in an upright position, place your feet shoulder-width apart and then jump forward into a squat position. Before coming up, pick the tire up halfway into the air and throw it forward.

Make sure to maintain good posture and knee position the entire way. When throwing the tire forward do not lose your positioning. Stay low and keep your back straight, then release the tire forward. Come to a full standing position and repeat for 30 meters.

Natasha trains everyday at the Sports Centre at 5 am in the morning and 6 pm in the evening.

Email Natasha at: natbrostudio@hotmail.com Telephone: (242) 552-7182

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“CHILDREN OF GOD” A film by Kareem mortimer Interviews with the cast CHILDREN OF GOD Cast members • Johnny Ferro- Johnny • Margaret Laurena Kemp- Lena • Stephen Tyrone Williams- Romeo • Van Brown- Reverend Ritchie • Mark Richard Ford- Ralph (Lena’s husband).

• Craig Pinder- Mike (Johnny’s father).

On Thursday December 11, 2009, the 6th Annual Bahamas International Film Festival opened with a bang.

More than 200 guests watched the opening night film Children of God, written and directed by Kareem Mortimer. In attendance were Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette and Vernice Walkine, Director of Tourism. The event was held at the Atlantis Theatre, Paradise Island, Bahamas.

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The film focused on two main characters: Johnny (played by Johnny Ferro) a young homosexual Bahamian artist in jeopardy of loosing his scholarship; and Lena Mackey (played by Margaret Laurena Kemp) a very conservative forty-something year old anti-gay activist who discovers that her marriage is lie. The story unravels in a highly homophobic Bahamian society and follows both Johnny and Lena to Eleuthera on their quest to face their demons.

The story brings to the forefront some universal lessons - that in order to find happiness we must be true to ourselves, and that in essence, we are all Children of God. Here are a few short interviews from the actors and the director and writer of the film.

JOHNNY FERRO Children of God is Johnny Ferro’s second feature film, but first lead role. Johnny who is from New York says, “This was actually the first audition that I went on with my current agent, and this was a blessing.

It felt right, as soon as I walked in, I felt very accepted by them.

NW: What was it like playing a homosexual role?

Johnny: It is absolutely part of acting, but it was difficult and I think that is why I was drawn to it. It is not any fun as an actor to act as yourself, so going outside of myself is absolutely why I got into this business.

NW: What did you think about the movie itself?

Johnny: I loved it. I think it is a very solid film and it’s an issue that needs to be addressed.

Photos by Phillippa Michel

NW: How long did it take to make this movie?

Johnny: A month and a half. I was here a month and a half doing it, and it was in post for like 8 months.

NW: Were you a swimmer prior to this, how was the swimming scenes for you?

Johnny: This is the Bahamas, I love the ocean down here. It is nothing like going to the beach in New York, and being able to be at work and to be in the water down here is a really amazing thing.

KAREEM MORTIMER NW: Tell me about the film Children of God, where did you come up with the concept?

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Kareem: I am very inspired by the people around me, and we did the story around the time when gay rights was a big issue in the Bahamas. This issue comes and goes. But this was during that time when we had those spree of murders (homosexual men murdered) a few years ago. We made this movie to speak to that because we were shocked by the kind of language people were using to describe people (homosexuals) and we wanted to show a human side to this issue. So that is what inspired the story.

NW: How long did it take to make the movie?

Kareem: We shot in five weeks and it took me a year from writing the story to put it into fruition.

NW: What do you think will happen as a result of this movie, what are you expecting?

Kareem: I want people to talk to each other. I want mothers to see their sons, fathers to see their daughters and for us to have respect for people that may be different from us.

NW: In this movie, we see a gay husband; do you think that we have a lot of this in our society, that it is something that should be brought to the forefront?

Kareem: I don’t know if a lot of women are married to gay men, but I do know that there is a lot Photo by Phillippa Michel of hypocrisy in how we live our lives and so that is what the movie spoke to. To the hypocrisy of us, wanting to judge people and to say ‘not in my house does this happen’, but it is in our house and it is in our lives.

NW: How old are you Kareem? And is this your first feature film?

Kareem: I just turned 29 and yes, this is my first feature film.

NW: Did it emerge as a result of the film residency program?

Kareem: Well, it was developed in the Residency Program. It is loosely based on a short film I made called ‘Float’. This movie is a feature length version of the film, so it actually started 3 years ago, this process.

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STEPHEN TYRONE WILLIAMS (Played the role of Romeo, Johnny’s conflicted lover) NW: Hello Stephen, is this your first film?

Stephen: It is my first feature film.

NW: Where are you from?

Stephen: I am from the USA - Alabama.

NW: How did you feel about the actual film?

Stephen: I’m proud of it.

NW: How do you feel about the message behind the film?

Stephen: Well, I think that because it is art, each person will come out with a different message. I am excited because it is going to invoke discussion. As an artist, it is not just important for me to entertain, but to also be a part of that change that I want to see. That is why I create.

NW: What do you think about Kareem as a filmmaker, director?

for this movie.

Stephen: He is a giving director, a giving person. He is a true collaborator, and I could not have wished for a better director

VAN BROWN Bahamian born Van Brown who played the role of Reverend Ritchie in Kareem Mortimer’s Children of God started acting about 10 years ago.

“I use to work at the Atlantis Resort and had met some folks from abroad (LA). I had done some work for them and they wanted to thank me, and flew me out to Los Angeles to see a movie premiere, that was when I fell in love with acting and film. I came back home, stayed for about six months, then I packed up everything that I owned and went to pursue my dream in acting.

NW: How do you feel about the whole production of the movie?

Van: I thought it was amazing. We shot in both Nassau and Eleuthera. Just the simplicity of the locations…amazing. Sometimes we needed quiet and at other times, we need it to be loud and the locations worked perfectly.

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NW: What did you think about the message of the film?

Van: I think it was amazing. We all have our views about this issue, and I think Kareem has kind of shown both sides on it. At the end of the day, it is basically saying that we are all Children of God. For more on the Bahamas International Film Festival visit the website: http://www. bintlfilmfestival.com

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Top Left: Van Brown at BIFF’s Opening Night reception at the Atlantis Resort.

Bottom Left: Van Brown and Erica MeusSaunders, publisher.

Bottom Right: Erica Meus-Saunders and Stephen Tyrone Williams.

Photos by Phillippa Michel

SABRINA STURRUP

Featured Designer

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abrina is another of our featured designers from IWFW 2009. Sabrina Stirrup started out in jewelry design but after having her first child said that she needed a change.

“I started with jewelry, but when I had my son about 4 years ago, I became extremely bored with it. There was no challenge in it anymore. I was like oh….I don’t really want to do this, which is really intense when you are an artist. So I decided to mesh the two together. I wanted to do jewelry and clothing and see if I could work with those elements; and I’ve been in it for nearly a year now”.

Sabrina was born in Canada and later moved to the Bahamas after she married. She talks a little about her family and her move to the Bahamas.

“I have a son of my own and three step-children.

My son is the youngest and is 4 years old. When he was about two we moved back here. My husband was born in the Bahamas, but had lived in Canada for about 28 years. He has spent time in both places, but he wanted to come back home. I was like ‘let’s go, let’s try it out’. It has been difficult at times, but it is getting better. You are getting to know people, getting to make friends and do stuff and express yourself, and that is great. The arena for that is great”.

Here is what she had to tell Nu Woman about her first showing at IWFW. NW: What inspired you? How did you come up with the theme for your collection?

Sabrina: I am really inspired by African materials.

I love the prints, I love the fabric, and I love the textures. I love all the intricate details that go into it. I hear people talking about the generation gap - the old, the young. How they need to bring them together and bridge the gap in order to make things better for the younger people and the older people. My concept was bringing traditional elements into the urban arena, and bringing the African influence. The style was different and that was what I was getting out with the design - a younger design, a hip design, but using the African cloth, which was really quite traditional.

NW: So how long have you been designing?

Sabrina: I started with jewelry. I have been design-

ing for 15 years off and on. I sell in the market all over the place locally. I came out with a collection in the Bahamas Fashion Week that was this past August, and I have done some shows since then. I did about four shows with Miss Daisy, she had a ‘summer fashion extravaganza’ and I was a part of that. I tried it (laughter) it was really exciting, I also did some photo shoots with Bacardi and now here I am at Islands of the World Fashion Week. This is my first real big thing.

NW: How would you sum up and describe the whole experience of fashion week?

Sabrina: For a designer, the stress is always just before you do your show, everything leading up to it, just before the moment. Now, I am relaxed and enjoying it. I love the people that I have been meeting. The caliber of the show is definitely the highest, I would say, anywhere in the Caribbean. The shows have been very professional, very on point, on key.

They know what is going on, they got it moving. I am very impressed with the professionalism here.

NW: This is the second presentation of IWFW, were you able to attend last year?

Sabrina: I missed it. However, one of my models actually recommended it. She got into IWFW, and so I looked it up and I got in. I hope to be here next year.

One thing that I want to mention - I am a Canadian, I did a lot of arts over there, but coming here, I am finding there is a lot more support, especially when you are representing the Bahamas, people are like ‘Yeah!

Go and do it and get out there’, really responsive! You have it in Canada, but the competition is so great. It is hard to get your name out there and be known. Here, is a nice launching place, and this show only propels it more.

NW: What are your plans for the immediate future?

Sabrina: Right now, I am an up and coming artist, so I’m trying to jump on anything that I can get.

I know it sounds bad, but it’s true (laugher). You are trying to get out there and get your name known, so it basically jump right in, get in there, anything that comes your way, you got to grab it. So any fashion shows coming up, if you or anybody knows about it.

Tell me about it.

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NW: So how long did it take you to put your entire collection together?

Sabrina: Some of the first pieces were from Bahamas Fashion Week. For Bahamas Fashion Week that was my first line I have ever created, it was six outfits. It was island casual style, quite relaxed and easy to wear. Therefore, for this one I wanted to do a little of that and then add the element of glamour - I can wear this while I’m going to the awards show, or the red carpet. I’m going out for the evening I want a cocktail dress, but I want something African, but nice and sexy and shapely; it has the ethnic feel but not necessarily the majestic look. When you think of African weddings, they are so extravagant, which is nice, but it is also nice to have that same feel in something scaled down, savvy chic. So the first part was from that first line and then I created the second pieces, which flowed nicely together.

I also want to appeal to the younger crowd.

From left to right: Model Charmaine and Sabrina Sturrup Photo by Dwayne Delancy 48 nuwomanmagazine.com

Sabrina Stirrup Designs Photographed by lyndah Wells

Model: Charmaine Burrows Make-Up- Greg Williams Jewelry: Final Accents Boutiq 49

Davia Chambers wearing Sabrina Stirrup designs Photographed by Lyndah Wells 50 nuwomanmagazine.com

From left to right: Charmaine Burrows and Davia Chambers Make-Up- Greg Williams Jewelry: Final Accents Boutiq Photographed by Lyndah Wells 51

. s I s co ner i a C d l win n a s Turpkermodheambers Su avia C D

Photographed by Lyndah Wells Wearing Designs by Phylicia Ellis Make -up by Greg Williams of Flawless Management Inc, Barbados g.williams@flawlessmanagement.com Jewelry by Final Accents Boutiq www.finalaccentsaccessories.com 52 nuwomanmagazine.com

Davia Chambers walked away with the title of TCI Supermodel on May 1, 2009. Since that time, this 17 year old has been extremely busy. Nu Woman Magazine caught up with Davia at Islands of the World Fashion Week 2009 and was able to capture her in her element.

Nu Woman: How was the whole experience of TCI Super Model Contest for you?

Davia: The Turks and Caicos 2009 Super Model contest was phenomenal. We had training for about three months before the contest, which took place in May. It was a rigorous training, but in the end the executive producer, Courtney Robinson did his best, and everyone put forward their best and the event was just great.

NW: So how long have you been modeling?

Davia: I have been modeling for about two years now, just doing local fashion shows back in the Turks and Caicos Islands. I started with Mr. Nerald Peat, he had a local fashion show - a top model contest - and I won top model of the season for his event. From there, I kept doing hair shows, fashion shows and I recently did Tobago Fashion Weekend back in Trinidad and Tobago.

NW: What do you plan to do within the next year?

Davia: I took part in New York Fashion week this past September modeling for four designers. In January of next year, I plan to return to do more casting to see if I can be a part of their next fashion week.

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From left to right: Davia Chambers and Charmaine Burrows wearing designs by Sabrina Sturrup Location: Sheraton, Cable Beach, Nassau Photographed by Lyndah Wells

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JOHNNY DEPP

Receives Career Achievement Award at 6th Annual Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF)

By Erica Meus-Saunders derpool.

During the event, Sir Sean Connery presented the award to Depp; and later that evening, the audience was treated to a question and answer session on the lawn of the Balmoral. Doug Brinkley conducted the session and the audience had a chance to ask a few questions of Depp. During this period, Depp was also presented with a portrait of himself from a local artist.

Johnny said that he was both thrilled and honoured to be there. Depp revealed that he would be spending Christmas on his private island in the Bahamas, saying that this place was ‘as close to paradise as you can get’. He also revealed that he would be back in the role of Captain Jack Sparrow.

“The process has begun, it’s looking very, very good that we will probably commence with old Captain Jack, sometime around summertime.”

Depp says that he was working along with the writers in terms of what has been done with the character before and how to keep Captain Jack fresh for the audience.

“This is for the audience. The people who came to see the film three, four or five times deserve to have something new, deserve to not be bored.

That’s what we are attempting now.”

Johnny Depp was presented with the Career Achievement Award at the 6th Annual Bahamas International Film festival.

The event was held December 13, 2009 at the Balmoral Club. Johnny arrived in a pinstriped suit and was greeted on the red carpet by the festival’s founder Leslie Van-

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Johnny Depp on how he became an actor “To be honest, I never had any interest in acting whatsoever, I mean none. I am still not sure I do (laughter). I was a musician for all of my youth and that’s what I was going to do; I was going to play the guitar and that was it. When I went to Los Angeles with my band, Bruce, the reality of no longer being a big fish in a little pond set in, and suddenly we needed to make ‘dough’ to live. So we did everything we could - sold ink pens over the telephone; played some more gigs; and then suddenly, one thing led to another and an old friend of mine, Nicolas Cage said to me, ‘I think you should meet my agent, I think you should be an actor.’ At this point, I said I’ll try anything, so I met his agent; we read for a film; and that’s how that began.”

Johnny Depp on “The Rum Diary” and living in Puerto Rico “Making the “Rum Diary” was a twelve-year ordeal. It was something that Hunter (Thompson) and I birthed out of his baseJohnny Depp receives portrait from local artist ment, as you know, and it startPhotos by Dwayne Delancy ed to come together. He wanted t o make it into a film and I tried to help with that. Hunter, somewhere during the process, made his exit, but I continued on and finally got it done, and it was a wonderful experience. Working in Puerto Rico was magnificent, and I had the luxury of living on my boat for a few months (I’m somewhat partial to boats and the sea) and working on a passion project. So it was a win, win situation.”

“The Rum Diary” was the first film made under Depp’s production company. During the filming, Hunter committed suicide. Prior to this, Depp said that at the time he had no idea that this would be part of his company; he thought that it would just have been something that he and Hunter did together.

“When Hunter passed away, I swore then that I would continue on, for him, for us, and that I would see his name on the big screen as producer. So that will happen sometime next year (2010), looks like.”

Depp on Humphrey Bogart and what Bogart means to him as an actor Depp describes Bogart as ‘A complete unique being.’ He continues on, “When you look back through cinema, and you see people like Humphrey Bogart, Robert Mitchum, Sir Sean Connery, James Dean and the list goes on, you start to realize that these individuals, real individuals are less and less today because, I don’t know, in some sense you feel like everybody tries to be what is expected of them, or be the poster boy or be the thing that is going to make them more successful; and I just think that that is such an awful direction to go in. So people like Bogart who are complete unique individuals are the people that I admire greatly.”

Johnny, who grew up in Kentucky and then moved to Florida, says that he was obsessed with all the films of Boris Karloff, Lugosi and Dracula, and was also obsessed with silent films with Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. He said that he would catch them on public television.

The evening ended with a montage of Depp’s greatest roles from Edward Scissorhands and Sweeney Todd to Captain Jack Sparrow of Pirates of the Caribbean.

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Woman’s conference gives rise to a sisterhood of Goddess

By Noelle Khalila

Imagine being greeted by a stranger with the saying, ‘Namastu Senta’, meaning, ‘I bow to the divinity in you’. Imagine if with a deep sincerity of spirit that gesture really symbolized an acknowledgement of the divine spirit inhabiting all beings, including your inner goddess. As a woman, perhaps the concept of a goddess-self would seem blasphemous; perhaps it would seem theoretical. If it would stir a light in you and make you feel liberated, it is safe to say you are not alone.

Women who understand and embody the goddess principle, one rooted in African tradition, are flowering across the Bahamas. They gathered in November for a first of a kind women’s conference, “Re-Awaken the Inner Goddess”. At the most basic level, the conference title speaks to the power women have within themselves to create peace and happiness in their lives and in their communities. Instead of looking externally for love and validation, women need only look within themselves to find a divine creative force.

Restoring African Traditions “Women are the womb-bearers. Only women and God can create life,” said Senator Jacinta Higgs, the unapologetically African educator and politician from the Bahamas, in her presentation at the conference.

“When I think about the letter ‘G’ in goddess, it reminds me of godliness, goodliness, goodness. In reawakening the goddess, women can think big things and do powerful things.”

The lineup of local and international speakers covered a variety of topics related to nutrition for the mind, body and spirit. The speakers all pointed the way forward for women to reconnect with their higher selves, discover the true essence of their personalities, and realize personal power and freedom.

The conference specifically sought to differentiate itself from the proliferation of products and services available for women to care for their cosmetic selves.

The various participants welcomed the opportunity to cater to their often neglected inner beings.

Senator Higgs’ presentation spoke most directly to the goddess principle: “The letter ‘O’ in goddess reminds me of the saying, ‘nothing can go into a closed fist’. In order for your inner self to be exposed to your godly self, you have to be open to the cosmos of good spirits.”

She went on to explain the ultimate achievement in reawakening the goddess is walking in excellence.

It is a journey of walking in divinity, which brings for-

Senator Jacinta Higgs giveness, healing and dignity to the lives of women; of connecting with the enduring spirit that was from the beginning of time; of empowerment. Instead of being tossed about by the whims of good and evil, women are able to stand firm with the spiritual ammunition of stillness and peace.

For some women, the concept of a divine self appears pagan and antiquated, even abstract, but according to conference coordinator, Tesha Fritz, this is an indication of how displaced African people are from their ancestry; how disconnected they are from their ancient rights, precepts and ways of life.

Who is a Goddess?

International woman’s motivational speaker, Dr. Linzi Morris indicated that the introduction of European patriarchal systems was the near death of the goddess principle. Prior to that enculturation, men and women in African societies were fully awakened to their divine selves. They lived cosmic lives in sync with the movement of the sun and the moon. They maintained relationships based on complementarities.

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They created empires with technologies that are still unrivaled in modern civilization. Women were rulers of empires and armies along side their male counterparts.

In contemporary society, these stories seem like fairytales, but in truth they are African history, and a part of the heritage of the African Diaspora. Embracing the goddess principle is simply an embrace of self, a journey home, or return to one’s roots.

“It is not abstract because it is an inescapable part of us; it is who we really are. Once you have that breath of life you are a god, a goddess. Being made in the image and likeness of God, what does that really mean?” said Fritz.

“This is about how we take care of ourselves; how we bring up our children; how we view others; how we relate to the world. As a people, we have not even begun to tap into the internal strength and power we possess; we have not even begun to realise the responsibility we bear.”

At another level, nurse and herbologist, Dr. Sherrice Ruddick, indicated that how African women view themselves determine the choices they make about the food they eat, the men they date and choose to father their children, and the lifestyles they live. The level of diseases, particularly preventable diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which are prevalent among women in the Caribbean, and the level of dysfunction in the community have everything to do with African people losing their way.

While financial consultant, Michelle Bethel, spoke about financial decision-making, and President of the Bahamas Breast Feeding Association, nurse Carlita Klass, spoke about breastfeeding, much of the emphasis and the allure of the conference came from the discussion about food.

Kitchen Make Over Nutritionist and raw food specialist, Dr. Joy Scott has a basic philosophy - people get sick because of what they eat, and they stay sick because of what they eat. If people transform the way they eat they will transform the way they live.

“Make the kitchen your pharmacy,” said Scott, who not only presented at the conference, but also catered the event, providing breakfast and lunch.

For most families, the kitchen is the devil in disguise, filled with highly acidic and detrimental food types, such as processed sugars, starch, caffeine, meat and wheat products. Food is typically bathed in saturated fats, over cooked or microwaved, and rendered dead.

Dr. Scott drilled down several life changing concepts, including live food and super food. Live food is another term for raw food, sushi not included. Imagine eating raw lasagna, raw kiwi-avocado pie or seaweed. It might sound Dr. Joy Scott garnishes the kelp noodle salad. like hamster food, but follow Dr. Scott’s advice and you will set yourself up with healthy gourmet treats. Live foods are uncooked plant-based foods. They are rich in nutrients and live enzymes, which are essential for maintaining robust immune systems. The best plan of action is to make each meal composed of 85 percent live food. The minimum standard is to actively seek to increase one’s intake of raw food.

Super foods contain naturally within themselves a healthy serving of vitamins, minerals, proteins, essential fatty acids, enzymes and hormones. They give the body total nutrition. Take you pick of blackcurrants, flax seed, bee pollen, walnuts, Irish moss, kale, noni fruit, avocado and you have your hands on a super food. Dr. Scott frequently instructs women to carry a small plastic bag of flax seed in their purse. It is as essential as any cosmetic item. Throw it on salads or mix it in shakes and sauces, just do what is necessary to have at least two tablespoons a day.

Dr. Scott also conducted three health food workshops after the conference. The first of three, Eating Vegan

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and Vegetarian, introduced participants to risk reducing strategies for diabetes, and cancer. Participants in the ‘Raw Food Class’ were awarded a raw food chef certification. Children were the main participants in the ‘Healthy Cooking for Kids’ workshop. Dr. Scott will be back in the Bahamas in February to conduct additional workshops.

The fact that the conference was hosted in November was no coincidence. “November brings with it the air of change because the planets Saturn and Pluto are facedown, which simply means they are Saturn-Pluto square.

These planets influence a powerful rattling to our comfort zone if our foundations do not represent our highest purpose,” said Fritz.

“It is said that Saturn rules our security in the material world and Pluto is the destroyer and the transformer.

When these superpowers collide, it is time to get serious about eliminating all those thoughts, habits and patterns of behaviour that stymies our growth into becoming the true divine goddesses that we are.”

The conference was organized by the Bahamas Ministry of the Journey Home Group which is an international organization committed to uplifting Nubian-Melaninite family. The organizers are planning a men’s conference for Father’s Day 2010.

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Re-awakening the Inner Goddess Conference 2009 1. Nurse Carlita Klass (left) and participant 2. Nurse and herbologist Dr. Sherrice Ruddick

Photos by Noelle Khalila

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Erin Greene: Jux-tie-position “I would like to create a space where we can explore and discuss our relationships to Bahamian culture symbolized by the use of Junkanoo fringing techniques, and the dominant western culture symbolized by the use of neckties, in particular I want to examine where these cultures meet, where they become the same.

I love neckties and as a human rights activist I am constantly aware of this symbol of western male power, I am also a “junkanoo-er” and a member of a local scrap group (Sperit). In JUX-TIE-POSITION I bring these two things I love together to explore and examine our relationships to culture, religion, sexuality and capitalism among other issues.

I invite participants at the exhibition to voice and document their own ideas in this space.

I use simple art to bring people, objects and ideas into one space to create something beautiful” Photos by Dwayne Delancy Bottom left: Erin Greene

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DAVID HANNA

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singer, songwriter and storyteller, David Hanna has been wowing audiences from the age of five. David sang with the Uriah McPhee School choir and later the National Youth Choir where he received extensive training in instrumentation.

David says that he was self-taught earlier on, but then he met Collyn McDonald and Lawrence aka ‘Vamp’ and they helped him ‘to figure out software and instruments’. He says that he is still learning from the different producers and musicians that he meets.

David has built an extensive résumé producing hit records for Gitana Ingraham, Filliper, Nathan Elton, Kendrea Strachan and brokenMics.

As a member of ‘4 minutes to 12’, he produced the hit single “Kick it with you Tonight”. Now a solo artist, David talks about his latest album “The War Outside”: “The War Outside” is about the inner me watching the outer fight to live in what is supposed to be an easy life. For the spirit, it is easy because it is on the inside relaxing looking out.

I approach the song from different angles.

David has performed in and out of the Bahamas, more recently in New York. David says that his immediate plans are to ‘set up a foundation strong in music and entertainment, and to get the message out to the world’.

You can find David Hanna on facebook - http://www.facebook.com/ pages/David-Hanna/94855901701

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Designer Darcel de Vlugt Winner of the Next Generation Award at IWFW ‘09 Darcel De Vlugt At her second presentation of IWFW 2009, Darcel de Vlugt took home the coveted Next Generation Award. Darcel had a chance to sit and talk with Nu Woman just before her win. Here is what she had to say.

NW: How long have you been designing Darcel?

Darcel: I graduated from London College of Fashion July 2008, so I’m really, really new.

NW: Did you attend Islands Fashion Week last year?

Darcel: Yes, that’s what I did as soon as I graduated; I applied.

NW: Tell me a little about your collection?

Darcel: Well, I always like to play with things from another world, or some sort of fantasy. So last year my collection was Greek Goddesses mixed with Trinidadian folklore characters. This year, I played with the idea of the Mad Hatters Tea Party from Alice in Wonderland. The theory is that it was written under the influence of Opium or it is about the effects of Opium. Therefore, the Mad Hatters Tea Party for me, each woman represents a dessert that has come alive; that is why the models were walking a little ‘doll-like’. So there was lemon and lime, I call them the Citrus sisters; and then there was plum tart; ‘lady liquorish’ was the last girl in black to come out; the wedding dress was whipped cream; and the white skirt with the raspberry top was ‘raspberry ripopavloa’. Each was supposed to be something representative of a dessert.

NW: So how long did it take you to put this collection together?

Darcel: A very short time because I actually ‘moved house’ after summer. I literally moved and started in October. I probably completed the collection in about three to three and a half weeks.

NW: Wow! Darcel: Yeah, that’s really a short time.

NW: So are you based in London and from Trinidad?

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Darcel(left) with model photo by Dwayne Delancy

Darcel: Yes, at the moment, I am based in London, but I am from Trinidad.

NW: How often do you visit Trinidad?

Darcel: As much as I can. And because my mom lives back there now, usually the major holidays summer and Christmas.

NW: Have you always been into fashion?

Darcel: I have always been into the arts. Always. I danced for about 15 years, and then I got an injury, which prevented me from becoming a dancer. However, I always liked the styling when we did shows and stuff, and fashion was something that I liked, that I liked to do, so why not do that.

NW: So how old are you?

Darcel: I am 23, soon to be 24.

NW: Very young.

Darcel: Not compared to some of these models (laughter).

NW: How do you compare this years Fashion Week to last years Fashion Week?

Darcel: With my experience, I think I was a lot more prepared than last year, because I knew what to expect. I think I was a lot more organized, even though I had a shorter time, but I kept the collection smaller as well, so that it was more quality rather than quantity for me. The response has been good, so I hope that I achieved that. This year, it has been a lot calmer than last year. Last year was hectic, it was my first show, I did not know what to expect. This year was better preparation.

NW: This year we have less designers compared to last year, how do you feel about that?

competing against worthy opponents.

NW: I see that you have put a piece in almost every category.

Darcel: Yes, every category - Next Generation Designer, Cultural and Eco. I wanted to fully represent Trinidad even though I don’t live there.

NW: Have you competed in any other shows?

Darcel: I have not competed in anything else because I work for myself. I do my own stuff. I don’t have a staff and obviously with the recession, things have been crazy, so I’m just working from my place in London. After last year, the experience was so good, so I decided to make Islands my Fashion Week. I guess as people hear about me, I can get invited to others, and if it’s possible, then I would definitely like to do that.

Darcel: In some respects, I was a little bit disappointed. To have more competition, it sort of proves your worth, that you were better than a lot more people. However, when there are less people, then maybe those people are at that level of being really good. So it is a ‘Catch 22’ situation, you are not too sure. But from who I saw, everybody seems to be really, really good, so at least you know that you are

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Model: Sedia Jackman Dress: Darcel de Vlugt Photo by Lyndah Wells

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Photos by Lyndah Wells 66 nuwomanmagazine.com

Right: model SediaJackman Left: model Michel-Shawntel Cumberbatch Wearing dresses by Darcel de Vlugt from her IWFW ‘09 Collection Photos by Lyndah Wells 67

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Model Michel-Shawntel Cumberbatch wears gown

by Darcel De Vlugt, IWFW Next Generation Award Winner.

Make-up by Italia Williams Eye Candy Photo by Lyndah Wells www.shutterchance.com Location: Sheraton, Cable Beach

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Dress: Darcel de Vlugt Model: Michel-Shawntel Photo by Lyndah Wells 70 nuwomanmagazine.com

ARTHUR DIENNET Filmmaker By: Erica Meus-Saunders

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rthur Diennet is the writer and director of the feature film “If God Wants”. Arthur, who at the age of 15 began writing the movie six months after his sister’s wedding, said that many of the events of that wedding were incorporated into this film.

“My sister’s wedding was October 6, 2004 and it was plagued with every bad thing that could happen and we could not figure out why.

There were two big hurricanes that year. We had planned to have the wedding at our house, and on the day of the wedding, immigration came to get the chef because he did not have papers. That same day, the fuses and the circuit box broke, so we had no power to the house, which meant that the reception was basically screwed. Everything was going wrong. I decided to put something together around what actually happened, and that is what this film is about.

“If God Wants” has been nominated for the Best Feature Film at the Los Angeles Comedy Festival.

The film was selected in the top 5 out of 2000 submissions.

“I can’t believe it. I am still expecting them to call me back and say that they have made a mistake.

I’ve been in contact with them and they are excited and treating it like it’s their privilege, and I’m thinking this is really funny because this is my privilege, but whatever they say, I won’t disagree. Things are going great and I’m excited!”

Arthur talks about how he got into writing and making films I originally lived in Paris and then Los Angeles. My family and I came to the Bahamas, and we liked it so much we decided to stay a week and then another week. That ended up being the longest tourist trip, and we ended up buying a house and staying here.

We moved around a great deal, and I ended up having a lot of time on my hands so I would write.”

Arthur reveals that he had begun making movies from an even younger age and could not remember a time when he wanted to be anything other than an actor.

“I can remember when I was about four years old, I would get all my toys and stuff and my dad would come out with the camcorder and I’d be directing him around. I would be telling him that the dinosaur needed to go here and that GI Joe had to go there. I always wanted to be an actor; it always seemed like such fun.”

Arthur talks about making “If God Wants” This was not my first movie. I had written a book earlier called “Bahama Joe” and at the time, I was visiting London and ran into Johnny Depp’s agent.

Anyway, I had given him the script to look at. He said that he thought it was funny, that it would have done well in the market and that he would give it to a director, but that they would not take me as an actor. He said that I was not going to be the main character and that I should just make a movie myself, and that is where the idea for “If God Wants” came.

The whole thing happened in our house. I used my family members and everyone else involved to actually reprise their roles in it. It was a family affair.

I was shooting on weekends and in the afternoon after school.

Arthur reveals that this process took about two years and that he spent another year in postproduction.

Screened in the Bahamas and Florida, the film has received massive acclaim from audiences, calling it an “enjoyable” and “heartwarming” adventure and has now been in the official selection at the Los Angeles Comedy Festival and the winner in the Best Production at Queens International Film Festival 2009.

Other selections: Official Selection in the International Film Festival Ireland 2010, Official Selection in the International Youth Film Festival 2010, Official Selection in the International Film Festival Egypt 2010, Official Selection in the International Christian Film Festival 2010, Official Selection in Alabama International Film Festival 2010, Official selection in Swansea Bay Film Festival 2010, Official Selection in the International Film Festival South Africa 2010, Official Selection in the International Film Festival Thailand 2010 and the Official Selection in the Isle of Wight International Film Festival 2010.

The film and music video combined have 22 film festival official selections in total and have been nominated for 7 awards and won 4 in the other film festivals; nominated for Best Actor, Best Director, Best feature film nomination from the Queens International Film Festival, it won the Audience award at the Shockfest Film Festival in Hollywood, an award Arthur says he is ‘most proud of’ and also won Best Production at the Queens International Film Festival. The film has also 71

received an Honourable Mention Award at the Los Angeles Film Reel.

For more on “If God Wants” visit the website- http://www.ifgodwantsmovie.com

ARTHUR DIENNET Photographed by Dwayne Delancy

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21st Century Bahamian Women Erica Morris and Nahbulunge Apparel understood the meaning of the statement ‘Go to the root level to understand the fruit level’,” says Erica Morris creator of Nahbulunge Apparel.

“You can’t understand the soul of a woman without touching the child she was.” The other impetus for Nahbulunge apparel existence was: • The dissatisfaction with the state of my life at that time.

• When a college friend revealed her sexually abusive childhood by her stepfather • My love of fashion and my fervor to empower and give back.

I wanted to add all of my passions, loves and new revelations together! So I conceptualized empowering women through fashion and a mentorship program called Kusudia (koo-sue-dee-a) that promotes social and cultural development of the girls in the program. A portion of my proceeds is donated to the Surrogate Aunt Program at the Williemae Pratt Center for Girls in Nassau, Bahamas and Kusudia at the Young Women’s Academy at Jan Mann in Miami, Florida.

NW: How long has the company been in operation?

Erica: Nahbulunge apparel has been available to the public for the past 5 years.

E

rica Morris creator of Nahbulunge Apparel describes herself as “made in America with Bahamian parts.” Erica was born in Miami in July of 1973, to a Bahamian mother and an American father.

She attended school in Nassau until the third grade, then went back to the United States from grades 4-7 and was back and forth between grades 8 thru 12. She attended Miami Community College, then Florida Atlantic University and finally Florida International University where she says she ‘found her fit in women studies’.

Erica sat down and talked with Nu Woman Magazine about her company, its objectives, and what inspired her to start it all.

“Nahbulunge Apparel came about when I truly

“I believe that what you wear says so much about who you are without you having to verbally articulate it. What inspired me to start with empowering message t-shirts was when I realized how hard it is for some women to give themselves a compliment, so if they wore a shirt that said ‘Beautiful’, they would feel beautiful and others seeing them will treat them as such.

The concept was in the making for about four years. There was a time in my life when I was like tumbleweed - just picking up whatever was in my way, no clear direction. During this time, I did a lot of soul searching; asking God what was his purpose for my life. From the day that I received the vision to the actual product was about two months.

NW: Do you have partners in the company?

Erica: I do not have partners per se, just contributors that have contributed financially and emotionally, those who encouraged me whenever I wanted

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to give up. They are Bryna, Genile Morris, George Morris, Charesse Chester, Marico Pratt, Teresa Singleton, Antoinette Butler, Shanda Lightbourne, Shundal Rodgers-Coakley, Latoya Barnes and Dannitra Swain.

NW: How is Nahbulunge fairing in this economic downturn?

Erica: Business is doing well considering I did my business backwards. I should have branded it first and then sold the products later. I was so excited to get my product and concept out; I was selling the same things in different colours to all my friends and family, now, more people are aware of Nahbulunge, I have even sent products to Nigeria.

NW: Tell us something about your future plans in terms of where you would like to see the company in the next few years.

Erica: In the next three years, on the retail side, Nahbulunge would be known worldwide, and it would have expanded into jewelry, bath and body products, handbags and luggage. On the social side, I hope to see the Kusudia mentorship program for young girls in all the schools in the Bahamas and the city of Miami Gardens.

NW: Who are your targeting?

Erica: My target is all fashion forward women ages 12 to 99.

NW: Is the business based in the Bahamas?

Erica: Nahbulunge apparel is based in the United States, but its roots are from here, after all the logo is my Bahamian mother.

Erica talks about her struggles As far as the clothing, it has not been that difficult; many people like the clothing because it is something new and they love the concept and what Nahbu represents. However, as far as getting them into the stores, it has not been easy. I guess it’s because the storeowners don’t know me and they haven’t seen my items on any major celebrity figure.

As far as the social side of Nahbu, it has been extremely difficult. I have realized Bahamian people are not socially conscious.

They are reactive and not proactive, and they are for the moment and not the movement.

I created a program at the Williemae Pratt center for girls called “The Surrogate Aunt Program.” When I was soliciting for volunteers, I received many responses of women wanting to volunteer, but when it came down to working – no one. All we needed is an hour a month, and women are not willing to do that.

I don’t know if it is because of their preconceived notion of how the girls are, or if it’s because, again, they don’t know who I am.

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Photos by Tricia Maladely

Tara Deal

& Creative CANDIE NW: How many hours do you put in daily, weekly?

Tara: I definitely put in about 11 to 14 hours a day, 7 days a week.

NW: What is the most difficult thing about being a woman entrepreneur?

Tara: Definitely the hours I have to put in, the rush jobs, and people who think that I should not have much of a “life”… meaning I must jump at their every command at anytime of day or night.

NW: What inspired you to start your business, and how difficult is it staying afloat in these tough economic times?

TARA DEAL

T

ara Deal is the owner and creator of Creative Candie, a full service freelance design studio. Tara, who is on our list of 21st Century Bahamian women, sat down to talk about her business.

NW: How long have you had your business?

Tara: I would say a year and a half. I started Creative Candie after leaving my 9 to 5 job in July 2008.

NW: How did you get into graphic design?

Tara: I have always been an artist, but after meeting Tanya Finlayson and seeing her produce the 1998 Kalik Calendar...I knew that was what I was meant to pursue.

NW: How difficult is it - running your own business?

Tara: It’s definitely more stressful than working with others in an office environment, where you can share out responsibilities; but it sure beats the traffic and having a boss breathe down your neck while paying you less than your worth.

Tara: I just knew within myself that I could do what I was doing at my 9 to 5 and make more money doing it. The fact is that Nassau is an “EVENT” town these days, so keeping afloat is pretty easy.

NW: Tell me something personal about Tara, what drives you?

Tara: I just believe in ‘Purpose and Excellence’.

I was given this talent and I intend to use it to the best of my abilities. I’m not going to waste my God given talents; this is just another way of giving The Almighty praises.

NW: What is your vision for you and your business in the immediate future?

Tara: Well, let’s just say this is just another chapter in my life and I’m the kind of person that keeps climbing even if it takes me in another direction. I’m not one to label or box myself in.

Tara designed the cover for Nu Woman’s 2010 Winter/Spring issue.

Website: http://www.creativecandie.net

TONI MITCHELL NW: What inspired you?

Toni: My inspiration came from several sources.

When I first started my greeting cards, it was a direct result of sermonic affirmations from my pastor, Bishop Neil C. Ellis. His sermons were about pursuing your dreams, having joy, and being all that God created you to be. Another source of inspiration is my mother. She is a major supporter of mine and is a constant inspiration as she pursues her dreams and talents.

NW: Have you always been artistic?

Toni: My first memories of myself are of drawing and doodling on the walls of my childhood home. I must have been 3 or 4 years old. All throughout my school years, art has been a major part of my life. It is a natural gift that God has blessed me with and it has always flowed through and from me. Throughout my scholastic career, I have been blessed to win art awards and competitions.

NW: Is there a partner involved? Or anyone else involved in the production of cards?

Toni: In the business aspect, my mother and I are partners. Our company, El Shabara Productions, also encompasses multi-media. With the production of the cards, I start with original paintings created as I am inspired... with a Bahamian flavor. These are then taken to the printer with verses that I also write. In recent times, it has not been cost effective, so I have been experimenting with printing the cards myself and moving into e- cards.

Photo by MarisA Wells

T

oni Mitchell is a croupier at the Atlantis Resort, Paradise Islands; Toni also makes personalized greeting cards and is the creator of El Shabara Productions and works along with her mother in running the business. Toni talks about what inspires her and what it takes to work a full-time job and manage her own business.

The Interview NW: How long have you been making your personalized cards?

Toni: I have been making personalized cards since Christmas 2003 76 nuwomanmagazine.com

NW: Is the business just local? Online?

Toni: As of last year, we have been developing an online site, not only for the business, but with an art gallery for the sale of my existing paintings and commissioned pieces and an e card section where people can send cards electronically. It is still under construction, but we are looking forward to a good response... the website is espmginc.com. Within the next several months, the site should be up and fully operational.

NW: What is the response from the general public?

Toni: I was pleasantly surprised at the response from the general public. I think Bahamians are ready to embrace and support local talent as a new surge of national pride is emerging. Quality and value for money are all that the Bahamian consumer is asking. Many people have expressed that they like the personal touch of each card and the Bahamian aspect of them. Each year there are some repeat customers who look forward to sending these cards around the world.

NW: What are your plans for the near future? Any plans of expansion?

Toni: Right now we are working from our home office and studio. At present, it is more cost effective, but we are anticipating an influx of new clients when the website is completed. So expansion is definitely in the near future.

The world is there for the taking and I am excited to embark into the global arena with my cards and my art.

NW: How do you juggle a full-time job and a business?

Toni: It is sometimes a struggle and often a challenge juggling a full-time job and the business; but I believe that in order to succeed one must be willing to make the necessary sacrifices. Discipline and hard work still pays of. Fortunately for me, I work in an industry that is a little more flexible time-wise and I love what I do, so the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

NW: Do you think that the role of women has changed in our society?

Toni: I think women have always played a pivotal role in society. There have been trailblazers and innovative women throughout our history. They have paved the way that allows us as 21st century women to pursue whatever our dreams may be. Today’s woman is realizing her full potential and is coming into her own more quickly because of the advances in technology and communication. This is truly an exciting time to be alive and to be a woman...

The sky is not only the limit but also a target to shoot beyond.

NW: What is your definition of a ‘21st Century Bahamian Woman’?

Toni: The definition of a 21st century Bahamian woman is a woman secure in herself, confident in her purpose, taking a hold of her destiny, while maintaining all that is intrinsically unique to her - impacting family, community, country, and the world.

LENNY KRAVITZ

On his first acting role ‘Set in Harlem in 1987, it is the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones (Gabourey Sidibe), a sixteen-year old African-American girl born into a life no one would want. She begins a journey that will lead her from darkness, pain and powerlessness to light, love and self-determination.’

“Precious” was shown at the 2009 Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) as the closing night film; and Lenny was present to talk about his role in the movie and about the film.

Before the movie was shown, Lenny had a few words to say, “You are in for an amazing evening. This film is something extra-ordinary; just get ready because you are going to feel it.’ He applauded the efforts of the screenwriter Geoffrey Fletcher. “This man standing behind me, Geoffrey Fletcher is the brain man that wrote the screenplay.”

Lenny Kravitz is a singer, songwriter, and producer and most recently an actor, debuting in his first acting role as a male nurse in the movie “Precious.”

“Precious” is the winner of three awards at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.

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Lenny talks about why he chose to do the film “Precious” Lenny says that over the years he was presented with many films, but turned them all down because they did not appeal to him or his sense of creativity.

“It’s all about a name, they don’t really care if you are talented or not, unfortunately that’s the way a lot of things work in Hollywood; it’s about a name and hype and money. I was presented with many films over the past 20 years and I turned everything down because I did not feel as if it meant something to me, and creatively, if it was the right thing to do. I wasn’t going to make films just to make money, or to become a ‘movie star’. So I just said, ‘if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen’. But this happened and you know, God knows the plans, and here I am and it’s a new beginning for me. I’m still making music, but now I’m starting to do films. I’m appreciative, it’s a blessing.”

He compares an album release to the making of a feature film When asked if there were comparisons to when an album comes out and it gets a lot of juice, if there is a different feeling when a film comes out?

“The thing about music albums and touring is that I’m so in it and there is a buzz. For an album if something is successful, I’m in the streets, I’m on tour, I’m doing a concert every night, and there are people in front of me. I can feel what’s going on. I kind of did this film and it went away. You know, I went back to Europe; I went on tour; so I’m here now in the Bahamas working on my next album, and I hear about what’s going on and I get phone calls about how well it’s doing - the Golden Globe nominations and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) nominations - and it’s all amazing, but it’s something that is sort of in another world for me.”

Lenny on what he thinks people will take away from the film after seeing it: Obviously, it’s all about hope; but the first thing that I always think about, and the thing that I mention to people, is look at how blessed your life is.

You know, what do we really have to complain about? That’s how I see it.

Lenny Kravitz Right corner: Lenny Kravitz and Leslie Vanderpool, founder of BIFF Photographed by Dwayne Delancy

NWM

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GEOFFREY FLETCHER Geoffrey Fletcher wrote the screenplay for the movie and was on hand to speak on closing night at Bahamas International Film Festival.

“It such an honour to be here on closing night, which is an honour in itself, but a very special one because, it is at such a prestigious festival. I just found out that I could come last night and I was so excited that I forgot my passport; so I just got here if you are wondering why I’m dressed so warmly. It was 30 degrees in New York just a few hours ago. My life was very different a year ago, and I’m still trying to make sense of it all. I get to work with people I’ve admired for many years, right here is one of them (pointing to Lenny Kravitz), and just when I was starting to make sense of it all, I find myself here still trying to make sense of it all.

Geoffrey on the film ‘Some people say that the book is more graphic and this and that. There is some physical violence that is here, but the great thing about cinema is that you can show people a little glimpse, another glimpse, and remind them to connect the dots and participate. So like the old horror films that were so scary, where you just imagined what was happening, in your mind, you could scare yourself more than any filmmaker can. But there are a lot of things that we do see as well.”

About a possible Oscar nomination “Honestly, people ask me that, and the truth of the matter is that I’m still amazed that the film got made.

I don’t mean to insult other films or anything, but

there are no transformers in this movie; it’s a really hard, cold reality and people want to see it.

But if you think about a film and elements that you think may be commercial in a film…this covers a checklist of elements that you typically don’t go to the movies to see, I imagine. So I’m just thrilled.

Geoffrey says that many things had to have happened for the film to be made.

“In all the elements, there were so many weird things that had to happen for this to happen. For instance, the Magnesses, Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness, they funded the film. So can you imagine? They wrote a huge check for a movie with this subject matter, and thought maybe they would get their money back. I don’t even know if they thought they would get their money back, I don’t know. But it’s remarkable and there were so many different steps along the way. There was a lot of chaos and sometimes good things come out of chaos.”

“PRECIOUS” Directed by: Lee Daniels Screenplay Written by: Geoffrey Fletcher and Sapphire (Adapted Material) Produced by: Lee Daniels, Gary Magness, Sarah Siegel-Magness, Tom Heller, Lisa Cortes, Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey Principal cast: Mo’Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey, Sherri Shepherd, Lenny Kravitz and introducing Gabourey Sidibe.

Geoffrey Fletcher Photographed by Dwayne Delancy 80 nuwomanmagazine.com

TERNEILLE “TADA” BURROWS

T

erneille “Tada” Burrows is an international, award-winning, recording artist and songwriter.

At 19 years old, after writing and executive producing her own solo project, she became the Grand Prize winner in the hip-hop category of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Tada’s achievements are many: Tada has headlined previous Miss Teen USA pageant, performed at the Kanye West Foundation in LA, and opened for artists including Bow Wow, Carl Thomas, Kardinal Offishal, and BeBe Winans.

Her voice is heard by millions of viewers throughout the world on the recent “It’s Better in the Bahamas” TV ad campaign by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. The ad has appeared on major U.S. networks strategically during the Obama Inauguration, Superbowl, Grammys and Oscar awards.

Tada recently ventured into the world of songwriting and has already amassed an impressive catalog that includes collaborations with producers that have created hits for everyone from Celine Dion to Lil Wayne. Tada also has her own weekly radio show. This multi-talented ‘it-girl’ recently sat down to talk with Nu Woman Magazine.

The Interview NW: How long have you been in the music industry?

Tada: My first solo CD was released in 2000.

Photographed

by Omar ‘B-Rich’ Richardson

NW: What prompted you to create you own label?

Tada: There were/are no record labels in the Bahamas - so necessity, as they say, is the mother of invention.

NW: What do you plan to accomplish through your music and your label?

Tada: I hope to be able to express myself as an artist and songwriter through one of the gifts I’ve been blessed with.

NW: How difficult is it being a woman in this industry and keeping your name and music out there?

Tada: Well, it is definitely a male-dominated industry. The thing is, when you find women in the business, they usually must be pretty good to stick around. So, I’m inspired by some of the top recording artist/songwriter women in the music industry like Keri Hilson, Sade and others.

NW: What advice would you give to up and coming artists, producers, etc?

Tada: Work hard and pray even harder.

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NW: What are your future plans?

Tada: To become a major songwriter and successful recording artist/future music executive.

NW: What is your definition of a 21st Century Bahamian woman?

Tada: One who is unafraid, diverse, anti old-school mentality, acts like a lady and thinks like a man. www.tadalive.com --Albums on iTunes: I’m That Girl http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/im-that-girl/id306901302 F5 http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f5/id219826635 Sancitigroove http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sanctigroove/id302333920

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LERIELLE COLE

& Final Accents Boutiq ness of fashion?

Lerielle: I’ve always LOVED accessories/detail as I mentioned, and being in Toronto, which is such a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic space, I was really exposed to different variances of fashion, and that made me develop my truest passion – fashion. With that intimate knowledge and exposure, I started up Final Accents (F.A.) in November 2008. I believe accessories are an expression of self and style, so the company offers a fresh blend of retail fashion, superior service and unforgettable experiences to its bevy of savvy shoppers.

NW: How difficult was it to get the business going?

Lerielle: Every venture has its difficulties, whether in business or with family or friends. I knew it would not be easy, so everything I’ve encountered thus far is truly a learning experience. The most difficult part for me was finding my niche and branding Final Accents (F.A.) on creativity, concept and dynamic superiority. I think I’ve achieved just that!

L

erielle Cole is the proprietor of Final Accents Accessories Boutiq. Lerielle, who is also a fashion stylist, talks about what inspired her to open the store.

“I have always had an eye for detail partnered with a love of fashion. I’ve always loved style and ways in which people put it together. After returning home from schooling in Toronto, where I’d always find a myriad of amazing and unique accessories, I realized there was a huge lack of quality, trendy and unique pieces in Nassau. So Final Accents was built out of a colossal void in the market and serves to recreate traditional, monotonous shopping habits into engaging and fulfilling experiences. My mom and I both shared in this initiative, so we started Final Accents together.

Lerielle recently sat and talked with Nu Woman Magazine about her business and how she manages to stay afloat in tough economic times.

Nu Woman: How long have you been in the busi-

NW: How do you stay afloat in these tough economic times?

Lerielle: Two words: creativity and convenience! In a time when consumers are more vigilant of every dollar being spent, you must have an approach; and not just any approach, but a creative one. You must offer something different; something so mind-blowing they can’t help but patronize. This is where my concept comes in. I don’t just offer my clients shopping, I offer them an experience. When they shop with F.A., it’s not just “come in, look around, pick up, and check out.” From the moment they walk into our boutique, it is a personal experience filled with amazing perks and chic ambience. Lavishly decorated, the boutique has parlayed a new approach to shopping, from its ‘shopping booths’ to its music selection, signature jewelry bags and exceptional customer service and that’s the key.

Secondly, we offer convenience. Final Accents celebrates shopping as a pampered, therapeutic lifestyle and offers specialized services to embrace the pastime women value most. From a selection of oneon-one style consultations, exclusive viewings, personal shopping visits, private events and convenient deliveries, fashionistas can choose to delve into our adorned collections, grab free goodies, indulge in our helpful sessions and even shop right at home!

Final Accents isn’t just shopping, it is a lifestyle!

NW: Would you class yourself as a 21st century woman? What is your definition of a 21st century woman?

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Lerielle: I classify myself as a woman - point blank. Of course the connotation of a “21st century woman” implies independence - monetarily, professionally, and socially, etc – but for me, just being able to succeed in today’s tough market is accomplishment enough.

Dwelling in the 21st century really just means greater access to opportunity and technology, so under this definition, yes, I am a 21st century woman.

NW: What are your dreams for the business and for yourself as a fashion stylist in the immediate future?

Lerielle: Whoa! My dreams for the business are mindboggling! My mind never turns off, even in my sleep. In the near future, I am hoping to launch my own jewelry line as well as a men’s line at the store. I just want to be able to bring the importance of ‘detail’ to the industry. Final Accents is not just fashion, and I’m hoping to expand the brand regionally. Ultimately though, I

simply want to connect style savvy shoppers with hip products and services; providing an unequalled experience for an exclusive set of consumers.

This past December, Final Accents Accessories celebrated its one year anniversary in an ultra chic, ultra exclusive reception called ‘The BOUTIQ Event’. The event was held at the Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort.

Lerielle was on hand with a group of models to welcome old customers and prospective new ones.

Final Accents Accessories Boutiq VillaMaria House #13 Silver Gates Drive P.O. Box SB 50783 Nassau, Bahamas Business: (242) 361-2976 Email: info@finalaccentsaccessories.com ## Photos by Vaughn Scriven and Farreno Ferguson.

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Can You Say

Babalu?

BaBaLU Caribbean Bar and Grill BaBaLU Caribbean Bar and Grill is one of the newest hot spots in the downtown area. This recently opened establishment features a variety of food from around the Caribbean - Latin, Creole, ‘Soul Food’ and an assortment of pizzas (e.g. Jerk Chicken Pizza).

“If you like to have a good time in a great atmosphere then BaBaLU is for you. There is pretty much something here for everyone”, says Tamiko Fox-Lunn, one of the proprietors. The restaurant/bar is operated under the combined efforts of Brian Aranha, Tamiko Fox-Lunn and Osbourne Pintard, who is also the head chef.

Tamiko says that he would like to see the bar/lounge aspect of BaBaLU become the foundation of the business, and to also have BaBaLU be known as the place to get great food at any hour.

“There’s great food, a great staff and awesome music.

As Bahamians have become more exposed and sophisticated, they are no longer satisfied with stopping at a

bar and just getting souse or mozzarella sticks with their drinks; however, they still want the friendly atmosphere that bars are known for. It’s not taboo to sit at the bar and have a nice meal. Additionally, our focus is on music as well as the menu. We have music themed nights with a live jazz band every Wednesday and a reggae band.

“Poetic Breeze” is currently held on Monday night.

Here local talents gather from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. to sing, read poetry or perform any original material.

It is spearheaded by Michelle Hanna, Mario Lord and MC and host Vanderlin.

We explore the entire musical palate from classic roots reggae, jazz, urban jamz, rock, and lounge to the freshest house beats straight from the hottest DJ’s in NYC.” The place itself can be described as ‘slick’, retro, cool and colourful. It is not a stereotypical bar atmosphere.

Tamiko describes it as ‘the one-stop-shopping mentality’ – food, cocktails and fun – a reaction against the barhopping trend.

“People don’t like having to transport themselves or move more than they have to. If they can find somewhere they can dine and feel comfortable staying, they’ll do it. The desire is for an evening that progresses from dining to hanging out, hopefully we will achieve it with BaBaLU.” But where does a name like “BaBaLU” come from?

Brian explained that the origin of the name “BaBaLU, with emphasis on the ‘U’, has several meanings. It is a form of Latin/Caribbean voodoo. It is also a term used to describe one who has had a lot to drink - “He is BaBaLu”. It was a song Ricky Ricardo would sing on the ‘I love Lucy Show’. It is also a Cuban dance, and when one is a little inebriated, it is a term of endearment - “Baby Love” comes out BaBaLu. The restaurant is currently opened from 4 p.m. until 7 a.m. In the coming weeks, they will also be starting a lunch menu.

Babalu’s Weekly Lineup Sunday Nights – Blues with Daddy Long Legs and Peter Peters Monday Nights – Poetic Breeze with Michelle Hanna Tuesday Nights – Brazilian Jam with Alvin and Mario Wednesday Nights – Live Jazz Band Thursday Nights – TBA Friday Nights – R&B ALL Night Saturday Nights – Salsa Saturday......Live Latin Band

For more on the Babalu, visit their Facebook pagehttp://www.facebook.com/pages/Nassau-The-Bahamas/Nassau-Babalu/162145078434 85

Babalu RESTAURANT REVIEW No fuss, no frills, just good vibes at Babalu

By Noelle Nicolls The smooth sounds of the Jazz Etcetera band beckoned me to check out the new West Bay Street bar and restaurant Babalu. Learning of the band’s weekly Wednesday night performance was enough to motivate me for a night on the town.

The Jamaican blood in me was disappointed by the jerk chicken pizza, seasoned apparently to tantalize a more Northern palette, but not much else disappointed.

The conch balls are seasoned just right. The name is not just a creative variation of the traditional Bahamian fried delicacy conch fritters. Babalu’s signature conch balls are made with lots of ground conch, seasoned and compressed into neatly fried miniature balls. The experience was like eating a conch fritter without having to search for the conch through endless layers of fried dough. Psychologically, it was difficult to reconcile the price of the appetizer to the size of the balls, but the bigger problem really was how addictive the dish proved to be.

The overall basic menu reads at times like a jazzed up menu from Imperial Cafeteria Takeaway, with sandwiches, wraps, pizza, conch and chicken snacks, but the basic menu is complemented by a weekly rotating menu featuring cuisine from the Caribbean.

The name Babalu invokes references to Babalu Aye, a Cuban Santeria Orisha, and Babalawo of the Yoruba Ifa tradition. The deliberate link is between

the owners of the restaurant and their ancestors who were talented dancers, knowledgeable of ritual African dances influenced by Cuban cultural traditions. Aside from a picture on the wall of the person who inspired the name performing an African dance, not much else gives away the Babalu associations.

The atmosphere is refreshingly non-pretentious, with people usually engaged in lively conversation and fun-filled, but controlled alcohol consumption.

The energy of the place seems to communicate the message ‘don’t watch nothing’. The crowds assembled tend more towards the 30s age group. There is a casual elegance about their dress, accounting for the after-work happy hour crew and the late night queens dressed in skinny jeans and heels with a graffiti print shirt and scarf.

If you fly solo to Babalu you’ll probably be a minority, as people tend to travel in groups and couples.

But the Monday night version of def poetry jam, Wednesday night’s Jazz and Saturday night’s Latin band provide enough entertainment for a cool night of solo adventure.

The soft yellow lights illuminate the walls painted with warm earth tones: autumn colours and complimentary blues. The venue is spacious, which makes it feel a little hollow when sparsely populated with people. There is a choice of dinner tables, bar-side stools, and couches for congregating and a make-shift dance floor on the dead space in front of the band stand.

Babalu is still young for an entertainment spot, opening only about two months ago, but it is already a popular spot for a no-bull crowd looking to have a good time around free-spirited people. This is one spot you will find me at.

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NWM

From left to Right: Proprietors Brian Aranha and Tamiko Fox-Lunn Head Chef: Osborne Pintard Photos by Dwayne Delancy 86 nuwomanmagazine.com

‘Poetic Breeze’ at BABALU Location: West Bay Street opposite Long Wharf

The Congo Drummers Far Right: Mario Lord

Zee Thompson performs at Babalu’s ‘Poetic Breeze” night Poetic Breeze is at Babalu every Monday night from 9:30 pm to 12 am.

David Hanna performs at Babalu’s Poetic Breeze.

All photos by Dwayne Delancy

Sedia Jackman Wearing Design by Darcel de Vlugt Photographed by Lyndah Wells Location: Sheraton Hotel Cable Beach, Bahamas