Panache e magazine issue 38 by Panache Occasions Limited

ISSUE 38

Cover Story

APR 2015

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APRIL 2015

Contents

Features 80-81 ISSUE 38

View our fantastic range of discounted perfumes and purchase your favourite fragrance.

Cover Story

20-23

Tony Urbansmash asks the question: Marriage Vs Slackness what would you choose?

APR 2015

66-71

Venessa Bobb wins the first ever National Community Inspiration Awards for Disabled Children.

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COVER PHOTO:

Our cover feature highlights CHEF JASON HOWARD, a Barbadian fusion chef whose aim is to gain the first UK MICHELIN STAR for a CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT.

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APPLY NOW for Miss Caribbean UK 2015

GENERAL MUHAMMADU BUHARI wins Nigerian Election in a landslide victory on 31st March 2015. Look out for Juneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue for full coverage of his inauguration ceremony.

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Contents Categories

CONTRIBUTORS A big thank you for the help and support provided by the contributors of this edition.

Panache E-Magazine’s readership has increased dramatically since it was launched in January 2012. In 2014, we won the Afro Model Award for Best Fashion Magazine and also in 2014 we won the EBR Award for PR & Marketing. We are obviously extremely pleased with the remarkable growth and would like to share our happiness by offering new customers, the opportunity to advertise in Panache E-Magazine at unbeatable rates! Contact us : T: 07946088553 E: info@panacheoccasions.com W: www.panacheoccasions.com

Karlton Chambers

Christine Simpson

Patrick Lewis

Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

Pily Mirazi

Maureen Smith

Tony Andrews

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE

The UK’s No 1 lifestyle portal for the Caribbean and African Community

“For You, By You”.

04. MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR’s 08. COVER PAGE FEATURE IN CELEBRATION OF MY SISTER’S 20. LIVING Health Food Drink Spirituality Travel Wellness Home / Properties Abroad Love & Relationships True life stories 34. CULTURE Art Music Literature Politics Entertainment Events Youth Books Television / Film Technology 56. FLAIR Pageants Style Fashion Beauty Hair Grooming Shopping 66. ACHIEVE Celebrating achievements Professional services Finances 74. PLEASURE Jokes Fun & games Illustrations Horoscopes Competitions

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The UK’s No1 portal for the African & Caribbean community

WINNER Best PR & Marketing EBR Award 2014

WINNER Best Fashion Magazine Afro Model Award 2014

Editor’s

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE

Message

The UK’s No 1 lifestyle portal for the Caribbean and African Community

“For You, By You”.

Clayton Brown

Jacqui Brown

Dear Readers, On behalf of all at Panache Occasions Ltd, publishers of Panache-E-Magazine I would like to thank you all once again for taking the time to read our great publication. This month’s edition features:NIGERIA ELECTS A NEW PRESIDENT AND PANACHE E-MAGAZINE HAS A BRIEF PRESS STATEMENT BY GENERAL MUHAMMADU BUHARI, GCFR, PREDISENT-ELECT ON THE PLATFORM OF THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC), MARCH 31ST, 2015. Our cover feature highlight CHEF JASON HOWARD, a Barbadian fusion chef whose aim is to gain the first UK MICHELIN STAR for a CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT. Plus many more interesting features, articles and competitions for your enjoyment.

Remember ladies, don’t delay, applications are now open for you to enter Miss Caribbean UK 2015. • Do you want to be the next UK Caribbean Queen? • Do you want to Win £1500? • Do you want to Win a trip to the Caribbean country you represent? • Do you want to Spend a year mixing with celebrities and dignitaries? Visit www.misscaribbeanuk.com to enter now! Please read and enjoy and remember this African saying: “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for something.”

Clayton Brown Editor

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APRIL 2015

Advertisment The best Nigerian TV channels are now on TalkTalk TV

of the best African TV channels from Nigeria - Nollywood Movies, EbonyLife TV, Soundcity, Channels, Silverbird – from Kenya, Uganda and Ghana respectively with Citizen, Bukedde and Metro TV have been launched for the first time on TV in the UK by TalkTalk. The TV package, named ‘African TV Boost’ will bring viewers a variety of Nollywood movies, 24-hour news, music, fashion, talk shows and lifestyle programmes for £10 a month on a monthly basis with no ongoing commitment. Most of these leading pay-TV networks in Africa made their first European or international foray with the launch of their flagship TV channels on TalkTalk in the United Kingdom.

Nollywood Movies

Alfred E. Soroh - Executive Director of Nollywood Movies

We are pleased to be part of the African Bouquet (African TV Boost) on the TalkTalk platform,we believe viewers will be spoilt for choice with quality programming from all the channels.

EbonyLife TV

Mo Abudu - Executive Chairman and CEO of EbonyLife TV

"We are excited to bring the best of original African homegrown entertainment programming to the UK via the TalkTalk platform. Come with us, as we tell Africa’s story from a fresh, positive and engaging perspective. We urge you to brace up because everything you think you know about Africa is about to change, forever.” 6

All the channels part of the African Package are very pleased to be now available in the UK, notably for the Nigerian, Kenyan, Ugandan and Ghanaian communities living here in the United Kingdom.

The channels included in the new African Boost are: • Nollywood movies: 24 hour movie channel. Exclusive titles and the latest Nollywood movies on early release, including a daily premiere everyday at 7pm, as well as Africa’s no. 1 soap, Tinsel • Soundcity: 24 hour Nigerian music and lifestyle channel with a mix of culture, music and entertainment • Channels: Leading 24 hour news channel broadcasting live from Lagos, Nigeria, with upto-date news on politics, health, current affairs, entertainment and sports • Silverbird: General entertainment Nigerian TV channel • EbonyLife TV : exclusive African original programming, featuring big African names, movies and popular series like Moments with Mo, EL Now, Screen Divas • Citizen: general entertainment Kenyan TV channel broadcasting news, sports, business, soaps and entertainment shows in Swahili and English • Metro TV: Ghana’s leading entertainment, sports and news channel. Channel offers local, regional and international news, talk shows, sitcoms and game shows • Bukedde: Ugandan 24 hour general entertainment channel broadcasting news, soaps and local information in English and Luganda

For2015 more - W: www.talktalk.co.uk/worldboost - T: 0800 049 1005 APRIL / information: Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

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APRIL 2015

Cover page feature 8

CHEF Jason Howard

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APRIL 2015

Cover Page Feature

arbadian born and Vincentian by decent Chef Jason Howard is marking his place in history as a “Modern Caribbean Chef” by infusing the flavors from his home cuisine with French cooking techniques. Michelin trained with more than 14 years’ experience working in 4 and 5 star hotels in Barbados and the UK.

Chef Jason Howard aspires to be one of the world’s top Caribbean Chefs one day. To get to know Chef Jason Howard a bit more, Panache e-Magazine asked him a few questions:

He has organised a series of events titled The Caribbean Fine Dining Experience, where he intricately fuses Caribbean food and flavours of his background in a deconstructed way, thus creating stunning perfectly balanced, exquisitely presented dishes which are delivered on par with the excellence found only in Michelin and 5 star establishments. Caribbean dishes at its finest, served in a way you have never experienced before, taking you on a journey throughout the Caribbean as he redefines the way we see Caribbean food.

In a nutshell, who is Chef Jason Howard? I am a small island man with respect for my peers and elders and doing things the right way and to the best my abilities.

Jason aspires to be one of the world’s top Caribbean chefs, bringing Caribbean cuisine its first ever Michelin star. Whilst Jason holds a clear passion for Caribbean cuisine there is also a frustration that not enough Caribbean chefs make the most of the exciting flavors and cultural influences Caribbean cuisine has to offer.

If you were to travel back in time to when you were 8 years old, what advice would you give to yourself? Nothing !!! As I think things always work out once you have good intentions, so I would say nothing to my self.

CHEF Jason Howard

Please go to his event and check out his latest event or contact page to book a private dining experience.

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Where did you grow up? I grew up in Barbados in the parish of St Michael’s Bank Hall, Reed Street When you were a child what did you dream you would be doing when you grew up? I wanted to be an Astronaut like every other boy in my decade.

What has been your biggest challenge to success? Getting my 1st restaurant to start my journey towards that 1st Michelin star for Caribbean cuisine. This task has been really trying at times especially finding the right place to start.

What motivates you? Anything and everything that can be applied to a food concept once you look at it in the right way.

What demotivates you? People who don’t try because I have learned that there’s no success in failing it’s just how you look at it.

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APRIL 2015

Cover Page Feature

Cuisine by:

CHEF Jason Howard

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APRIL 2015

Cover Page Feature Do you prefer working on your own or within a team, and why? I love working with a team once they can take direction and listen if not, I would do it alone. What is the must do social media activity for greater impact in your career? Instagram has been quite helpful in spreading the word about Caribbean cuisine and for obtaining connections all over the world.

Where can you see yourself in 5 years’ time? In five years time, I would love to be known as the 1st chef with a Michelin star in cooking Caribbean cuisine.

CHEF Jason Howard

Do you recall the best piece of business advice you received? The best piece of business advice was to find the balance in whatever you’re doing in any market or Business. You need balance to make it and also manners. Tell me about an accomplishment that you are most proud of in your career? Wow, my proudest accomplishment was to promote the taste of the Caribbean for Londoners to experience and appreciate Caribbean cuisine at another level. The response was fantastic. Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing? Listening to classical music, playing video games, visiting art galleries when I can and cooking up new dishes at home. Your holding a dinner party, who would be your ideal guests and why? My family and friends are my ideal guests because they are my biggest supporters. Do you play sports? If so which Basketball ball, but not a lot people play it over here. So it’s just football. 14

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Where do you get your inspiration? Most of the time I would just take a walk or just relax or even take a nap and Eureka I’ve got it a new dish or I realise how to approach a dish or which plate to use. Give me an example of an Easter menu you would prepare for me? Kingston salted cod velouté with Jasmine coconut squid ink rice, seared sea bream and coriander oil, oxtail and mixed mushrooms with sweet potato mash and oxtail jus, finished with a fresh fruit salad with strawberry rum sauce. What is your favorite cuisine to cook? Why? Caribbean cuisine - And why because it has so many different variations, flavours, textures and history. What is your favourite food memory? My best and favourite food memory is of my Grandmother cooking corn soup for the whole family and that’s about 30 people.

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APRIL 2015

Cover Page Feature Who in the food world do you most admire? Gordon Ramsay. He’s a great chef and teacher. He makes you see the kitchen for what it really is so to me, he’s honest. How do you get your inspiration? I get my inspiration from my dad because he has been there for me and supported me when needed and has always pushed me to succeed without even saying a word.

CHEF Jason Howard

What are your favorite foods to cook with? I love cooking fish, meat anything really once I am doing it well it’s enjoyable Are there any foods you just don’t like? I don’t really like baking. Anything like bread, pastries etc. really get to me. What do you think is the most challenging ingredient to work with? I have yet to meet an ingredient that was a problem but when it comes I will enjoy every minute of it because I love a challenge. What do you like to eat when you’re at home? At home, I mostly eat fruit. But I also love stewed lamb with split pea rice. Do you have any favorite cookbooks? I don’t really have a particular favourite cookbook, but I’d like to create my own original cuisine from Caribbean recipes. What do you do for fun? I cook for fun as it relaxes me tremendously or I play video games. 16

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Where is your favorite place in the world? My favourite place in the World is with my family where ever they are, or my kitchen LOL. What do you most love about your job? Teaching others the skills that I have learned and then get great joy when I get to witness those that I have taught apply those skills themselves. If you had just one wish, what would it be? I would love to speak to my maker, have a meal with him and then ask him why are we here. What’s your ‘Last Supper’ meal? Saltfish and split pea rice cooked by my Grandma. One last question – is there a quote or saying you can share with Panache readers, which has either touched you or which you feel can inspire someone on their journey? Remember where you’re coming from because only then can you plan your Journey to achieve your goals and aspirations.

CONTACT Chef Jason Howard W - www.chefjasonhoward.com E - info@chefjasonhoward.com T - 07535469172

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APRIL 2015

Cover Page Feature

Cuisine by:

CHEF Jason Howard

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APRIL 2015

LIVING

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Living

Life

MARRIAGE Vs SLACKNESS By Tony Andrews

his month’s article is a reflection on opposites in a relationship… or shall we just say personal relations! The dynamics of two ends of the spectrum and everything else in between is what I believe gives all situations energy and life. So without further ado, here’s some food for thought… NAUGHTY BUT NICE It’s great being nice, but as the saying goes, “Nice guys finish last!”. There’s a time for being nice and noble as there is for being naughty and nasty. The most important thing is to do what’s appropriate for the situation, rather than trying to always be one or the other. PUBLIC VS PRIVATE Some people in a relationship boast and brag about it. They’re happy, bless them, so they want to spread their love and joy. Pictures all over social media of them and “bae”. But relationships are like the weather, some days are sunny and other days there may be a storm. A maxim that’s never been more true is, “A private life is a happy life” …okay, so being private is not a guarantee of lifelong happiness, but it does give you some protection from the storm when it does hit. Privacy is like a shelter. We all know, and should remember, to keep all negativity behind closed doors. However I believe there’s something great in even keeping the good times private too. Doesn’t that make it more special and intimate. After all, a relationship is between you and your boo, not the whole world!

LOVE & WAR They say all is fair in love and war. This may spark controversy but I think the best relationships are a mixture of love & war, passions from both angles and extremes. We talk about the battle of the sexes that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. Doesn’t if feel like we’re from different planets sometimes? The worst kind of relationships is where the energy is dead. It’s truly the end when there’s no feeling, no emotion, no spark. However if your partner gets your blood flowing or juices going, even if it’s for all the wrong reasons, it’s better than nothing at all. As an arch-enemy whom I have too much in common with (they’re good to have for motivation) once said, “Why tip top through life just to arrive safely at death’s door.” Don’t be afraid to fight, especially for what you believe in. There’s no greater intimacy than making up or having your sparring partner lick your wounds! Just remember to fight fair and do it for love. No war crimes need be committed. BOREDOM VS EXCITEMENT We all get bored at some point. No matter who we are, how great we are or who we’re with. This is especially true if and when you move in together with your partner. The wife of a good friend of mine has her tag-line as, “mother wife & friend...life’s boring so I entertain myself” …I help with the entertainment as much as I can. Risk and danger are of course great sources of excitement. As juvenile as it may sound, there is great pleasure and thrill in pushing the boundaries and testing the limits of ourselves and others.

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APRIL 2015

Living

Life

There is a cost to this of course. Get it wrong, or go too far, and you risk losing “everything”. They say trust is expensive as it takes years to build and can be destroyed in an instant. As we mature, we can often become more boring. We strive for stability so we can build our lives with strength and confidence in the foundations that we have laid. Although this is one level of wisdom, I believe the extremely wise recognise the virtue and importance of taking worthwhile and considered risks. A common reflection and regret of those in later life, the eldest generation, is that they wish they had taken more risks, not been afraid and seized more opportunities. They say the good die young. Other people live by the mantra, “Live fast, die young!” …We tie this into YOLO (you only live once) and it sounds like the world is encouraging us to, “Just Do It!” The fear will never go away, and if it does that’s a problem (we need to face and conquer new fears). You know you’re truly living and thriving when you step up to the plate and feel the fear and do it anyway. You will not be bored! BRING LIFE VS CAUSE DEATH When people find something funny, amusing or entertaining, or simply just pleasurable they often say that it, or the person, gave them “more life”. There’s a popular dancehall song by Kalado called “Bring Life” which sums up this concept nicely (please beware this is dancehall, so parental advisory explicit content!) Life is of course meant for living, not just for surviving and paying bills until you die. To always be mindful of our death need not be morbid nor depressing. We remember loved ones who have passed and we celebrate and 22

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honour them. At the same time, by being mindful that no one is here forever, we are reminded to live life to the max. Carpe diem, or “seize the day”, is a good mantra to live by. It may be difficult to always live each day like it might be your last, after all there are benefits of planning, patience and preparing for the future. However at the same time, we do not want to live with hesitation, too many missed opportunities or regrets. Relationships are designed to bring life. However, taken to the extreme: jealousy, anger, rage and revenge can in the worst cases cause death… of the relationship if not the people involved. It’s a wise idea to move away from those people who jeopardize your life and happiness. Those who stick out long term relationships will tell you that it’s cyclical… relationships, like many things in life, go through a cycle that usually repeats itself and with any lucky, develop grow and strengthen over time. Some people go from relationship to relationship, often repeating the same or similar cycles and hopefully learning and growing from each experience. Others have an on-off relationship with the same person and each time adheres to the natural cycle that relationship goes through. The worst thing to do is resist or fight the natural flow of a relationship. When it’s time to let go, move or, or distance yourself from your other half, you must do this. Holding on when it’s time to let go is like going against nature and the natural force, energy and dynamic that the situation demands. It can backfire badly and the more you go against the natural flow, the worst the situation becomes… you get more of the opposite of what you want. PRIDE VS SHAME When you’ve met your match and bonded

with your soulmate you feel immense joy and pride. Everything’s perfect. But alas, we’re human and we all fall from the pedestal of being the perfect partner that our new love once saw in us. At times, we and our significant other, can cause us great embarrassment and shame. The best, most formidable and strongest couples, as is often said, go through everything that’s designed to tear them apart, yet still remain together. This is not to say that some people or relationships are unbreakable… we are all breakable. However, even when the pieces shatter and it feels like the world is over, life goes on. If you have the faith and fortitude to pick up the pieces together, even if your back is turned from each other for a time, you can come back stronger than ever before. The best testimonies are from the couples that have gone through the worst “sheet” you can ever imagine and yet still here they are to tell the tale and they have a deeper connection and respect for each other than you will ever know. SINNER VS SAINT Those who marry, or hook up long term in an exclusive long term relationship (LTR), must know that they are with a sinner. Never go into a relationship thinking that you will always be honoured, valued, respected. Do not expect or demand loyalty, faithfulness, truth and all the other gifts, qualities and virtues that come from a perfect saint. Yes you can demand them if you want, but the reality you live in the world and so does your partner. We are far from perfect and so are all the influences out there. There’s no excuse for badness, sin, infidelity, disrespect, heartbreak… but that’s life, deal with it! Are you going to run from relationship to relationship looking for the perfect man or woman who has all the values that only an angel would be able to maintain?

Or will you take a vow to be single forever so that you can escape the drama and pain. Even in a marriage or LTR, there are periods where you need to be “single”. That is, for solitude, to be by yourself so that you can think, reflect and “find yourself”. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder and this can be true. You may also come face-to-face with an ex and be like, “What was I thinking, was I drunk during the whole relationship?” … as if our eyes are now open and we’ve woken up from whatever dizzy voodoo sando spell we were under. However we feel, and whatever reflections and conclusions we come to, just know that it’s okay. There’s no right or wrong. If you can accept yourself, how you feel and how you are, then you’re halfway there. If you can accept the other person, love them and/or hate them as you should, then that’s nothing short of a miracle… and good for you! ..both! MARRIAGE VS SLACKNESS In a marriage or LTR, slackness is essential. I don’t mean being completely reckless or immoral. But to have fun with each other and keep laughing & smiling. To joke, to frolic, to go out and to feel like you’re truly living. Life is not worth living if you’re constantly holding back or feel like you’re unable to be who you truly are. Love is waking up every morning deciding to love your partner exactly for who they are. Why should you have only the best bits of them? If you cannot accept me at my worst, then you don’t deserve me at my best. Keep loving. Keep forgiving. Keep smiling. Tony ‘Urbansmash’ Andrews urbansmash@gmail.com Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Living

Life

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS By: Christine Simpson

Here's your monthly list of celebrity birthdays for APRIL. Discover who shares your birthday.

04 APR Maya Angelou - Born - April 4, 1928 - May 28, 2014

02 APR Linford Christie - Born - April 2, 1960

20 APR

03 APR

Luther Vandross - Born April 20, 1951 - July 1, 2005 1st Jimmy Cliff OM – musician David Oyelowo – actor Wangari Muta Maathai (1940–2011) – environmentalist/political activist 2nd Linford Christie – former sprinter Marvin Gaye (1939-1984) - musician Rodney King III (1965–2012) – construction worker 3rd Leona Lewis – singer/songwriter Eddie Murphy – comedian/actor Aries Spears – comedian/actor Errol Barnett – news anchor 4th Lemar – singer/songwriter Maya Angelou (1928-2014) – author/poet Ben Gordon – basketball player

Leona Lewis - Born - April 3, 1985

5th Pharrell Williams – singer/songwriter Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) educator/author Colin Powell – former US Secretary of State 6th Billy Dee Williams Jr - actor Gina Yashere – comedian Phil Gayle – newsreader/journalist 7th Billie Holliday (1915-1959) – jazz singer Michael Fuller QPM - former Chief Constable of Kent Police 8th Kofi Annan – diplomat Skai Jackson – child actress

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9th Keisha Knight-Pulliam - actress Clive A. Sullivan MBE (1943-1985) - rugby league player 10th Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds – musician/ record producer Orlando Jones – comedian/actor Bunny Wailer – songwriter/percussionist Barkhad Abdi – actor 11th David Banner – record producer/rapper Meshach Taylor (1947–2014) – actor 12th Dwayne Smith - cricketer Claudia Jordan – actress/television personality Akai Osei – teen dancer Herbie Hancock – musician/composer

Lois Reeves – singer Jacob Zuma – President of South Africa

21st Terrence J. – television personality/actor

13th Al Green – singer Baron Davis - basketball player Peabo Bryson – singer/songwriter

22nd Louis Smith MBE - artistic gymnast Sherri Shepherd – author/ businesswoman

14th Antwon Tanner- actor Terri Walker – singer/songwriter

23rd Taio Cruz – singer/songwriter Syd tha Kyd - DJ

15th Benjamin Zephaniah – poet/author Dame Jocelyn Anita Barrow, Mrs. Downer DBE – Director

24th Cedric the Entertainer – actor/comedian Djimon Hounsou – actor/model John W. Thompson - Chairman Microsoft

Zambia Sir Grantley Adams CMG QC (1898–1971) – First Prime Minister of Barbados Robert Greenidge - steelpan player Shannon Gabriel - cricketer 29th Andre Russell - cricketer Master P – rapper/entrepreneur Duke Ellington (1899–1974) – composer/ band leader Tammi Terrell (1945–1970) - singer 30th Cleo Higgins – singer Lloyd Banks – rapper

16th Martin Lawrence – actor/comedian Gabrielle – singer/songwriter Tameka Empson – actress Alek Wek – fashion model Asa Randolph (1889–1979) - leader civilrights movement 17th Lela Rochon – actress Tami Roman – model/television personality Kimberly Elise - actress 18th Malcolm Marshall (1958–1999) - cricketer Aldwyn Roberts / Lord Kitchener (1922– 2000) – calypsonian 19th Dame Kelly Holmes DBE MBE – athlete Eric Stanley – violinist Afrika Bambaataa – DJ/producer 20th Luther Vandross (1951-2005) – singer/ songwriter Stephen Marley - musician

19 APR Dame Kelly Holmes - Born - April 19, 1970 25th Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) – jazz singer Albert King (1923–1992) – blues guitarist/ singer 26th Marianne Jean-Baptiste – actress/ director Ms Dynamite – rapper/songwriter Oliver Skeete - showjumper

16 APR Tameka Empson - Born - April 16, 1977

27th Freundel Stuart QC MP - Prime Minister of Barbados Mica Paris – singer/presenter Coretta Scott-King (1927-2006) – civil rights activist Cuba Gooding, Sr – singer/actor

20 APR Stephen Marley - Born - April 20, 1972

28th Walter Tull (1888–1918) - professional footballer Kenneth Kaunda - First President of

23 APR Taio Cruz - Born - April 23, 1985

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APRIL 2015

Living

Caribbean Property

Caribbean Attorneys: Legal Practitioners or Lawbreakers?

By: Maureen Smith

t is no secret that many local and overseas residents have had appalling experiences at the hands of a group of ‘professionals’ in the Caribbean who have displayed behaviour that is most unbefitting of their profession. One law for them and one for you Too many attorneys in the Caribbean appear to be a law unto themselves. For example, some hold clients’ funds indefinitely, allow clients’ files to go into ‘sleep mode’ for an inordinate period of time, and the worse of the bunch, use clients’ funds for personal expenses. What recourse is available to innocent victims of these unscrupulous individuals? The need for independence It may surprise you to know that most Caribbean islands have a body whose role is to govern their attorney members. But guess what? The members of these governing bodies are themselves attorneys, many of whom will have attended the same junior, high and/or law school as those they are supposed to ‘govern’. Furthermore, many move in the same circles.

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Barbadian lawyers behaving badly To give you some idea about the current state of the legal profession in the Caribbean, I recently came across an article on a Barbadian website (Barbados Free Press) where it stated that the President of the Barbados Bar Association blamed the public for choosing crooked lawyers “at random”. It is reported that when asked about the high number of lawyers recently charged with misappropriating clients’ money, the President responded by saying that Barbadians “have to stop picking a lawyer at random or choosing one simply because a friend suggested a name.” The President also cautioned the public to avoid lawyers with “cash flow problems”. What is most interesting here is that the BFP further pointed out that the Barbados Bar Association website actually recommends lawyers who have been caught stealing from clients. This is due to the fact that the names of these attorneys can still be found on the Barbados Bar Association’s website, leaving innocent (often overseas) clients to find out the hard way that the attorney whose services they have retained has acted improperly in the past. Even more shocking, the President of the Barbados Bar Association went on to say, “… I suspect that this is not the end of the line because we are now in a recession and cash is tight. There is a cash flow problem, not only with attorneys. I would suspect with the

country as a whole. So I don’t think we have heard the end of the story as yet. But, yes, we are concerned . . . and the public can help themselves by vetting the attorney in whom they entrust the business.” Yes, you’ve read correctly. This is a warning to you from the President of the Barbados Association that your hard-earned money could be lost to attorneys in Barbados because the island is going through a recession. Jamaican lawyers behaving badly On 9th March 2015, RJR News (Jamaica) published an article titled ‘300 complaints against attorneys before General Legal Council’. See below for story. 1. “RJR News understands that the General Legal Council (GLC) is now looking into more than 300 complaints filed against attorneys-at-law by clients. 2. Last week, prominent attorneys Harold Brady and Michael Lorne were charged with defrauding their clients of millions of dollars. The police are also investigating other complaints against other attorneys. 3. The General Legal Council is concerned about the number of complaints being filed, especially by elderly persons, most of who live overseas.

4. They have complained of money not being paid over to them in real estate deals. However, it’s understood that the bulk of the complaints involves negligence, delays in having cases heard and dishonesty on the part of attorneys who reportedly collected money for cases they failed to take to court. 5. It’s understood that the Disciplinary Committee of the GLC is probing more than 20 cases in which individuals and companies have been defrauded of millions of dollars. 6. The complainants took the cases to the Council for mediation instead of reporting the matter to the Fraud Squad. According to our sources, the complainants have taken this route with the hope that the GLC will apply pressure on the attorneys to hand over their money.” St. Lucian lawyers behaving badly Although St. Lucia does not seem to be plagued with as high a level of complaints against their attorneys as other Caribbean islands, a case presented to the High Court of St. Lucia by the Disciplinary Committee found that “the Attorney at Law had failed to do the following”: 1. To complete the matters undertaken and paid for.

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APRIL 2015

Living

Caribbean Property

2. To pay the Vendor the purchase price. 3. To refund the Applicants’ monies paid including the purchase price after requested to do so by the Applicants and the Applicants’ Solicitors. 4. Grossly betraying his clients’ confidence to the point whereby the Applicants were forced to retain Solicitors to recover monies paid to the Attorney at Law and obtaining an injunction to freeze the Attorney’s clients account albeit to no avail as it turned out that there were no funds in the said account. 5. To provide the Applicants or the Committee with any reasonable explanation for said failures. 6. Disgraceful and dishonourable behaviour on the part of the Attorney of Law amounting to professional misconduct.” The Court ordered that the attorney’s name “is not to be entered on the Roll and he is not to be allowed to practice as an attorney-atlaw in the State of Saint Lucia.” Many of the failings on the part of the attorney in St. Lucia are not dissimilar to those committed by too high a number of attorneys in other Caribbean islands. However, the outcome meted out to the attorney in St. Lucia needs to be implemented more often in other islands in the region where bad attorneys are too often allowed to continue practising. Complainants need to be lawyers For the complainant who chooses to report their attorney to the relevant governing body, they will find themselves having to present 28

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

‘evidence’ of their complaint in a format not unlike that one would expect from a litigating solicitor. Most complainants will find this challenging and are likely to abandon the idea of complaining about their attorneys. Already stressed as a result of poor conduct on the part of their attorneys, complainants should not have to go through preparing Affidavits and collating documentary evidence as though they were lawyers. These procedures can be simplified to make it easier for complainants, most of whom have not attended law school so should not be expected to act as though they had. Tips for choosing a ‘good attorney’ I could not finish this article without giving you some basic tips about some of the things you can do to help you when looking for ‘good attorney’ to deal with your legal affairs in the Caribbean.

1. Contact the relevant governing body on the island in which the attorney you wish to retain is based and ask them if they have received any complaints against the attorney. If yes, ask them whether or not the complaint or complaints were upheld. You should ask about the nature of any complaints that were upheld and

if not provided to you, then it may be advisable to seek the services of another attorney. 2. Check if the attorneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s registration/licence to practice is up-to-date. If it is not, then it may be advisable to seek the services of another attorney. 3. Where a law firm has a website, check to see if there are any testimonials from past clients. 4. Request a written breakdown of fees and disbursements from the attorney whose services you decide to retain to deal with your legal affairs in the Caribbean. Do not retain the attorney who fails to honour this simple request, but treat it as a sign of what is to come.

The good attorneys And finally, to those reputable and trusted attorneys in the Caribbean with whom Tropical Connections has established an excellent working relationship over the years, we thank you for helping us maintain our reputation with our clients through the quality of services delivered to them by your good selves. You know who you are!

Get in touch:

Tropical Connections Limited, Weatherill House, New South Quarter, 23 Whitestone Way, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 4WF, England Maureen Smith Telephone: 0845 222 1413 Mobile: 07506 354 902 Fax: 020 8686 6125 E: info@tropicalconnections.co.uk W: www.tropicalconnections.co.uk

These tips do not guarantee that you may not still find yourself the victim of a negligent, unscrupulous and/or lawbreaking attorney in the Caribbean, but at least you can be proud of the fact that you carried out some due diligence to help you choose a good legal practitioner.

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APRIL 2015

Living

Caribbean Property

Cap Estate, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

http://www.tropicalconnections.co.uk/property/cap-estate-gros-islet-st-lucia-4/#!prett

rom its unique location near the northern tip of St Lucia, this villa has such an impressive view of the Caribbean Sea that you need never sign up for a whale watching tour! Every room in the house enjoys this up close sea view. The property is also very near to the coast line and residents have access to the shore through a pathway to the back of the house. Saline Point, Cap Estate is one of the most upscale locations in St Lucia. The area is very

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

private and serene, with grand houses on sprawling lots. The nearest town is Rodney Bay, which is a 10 minute drive away. There are also numerous beaches within close proximity to the house including Le Sport, Smugglersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cove and Pigeon Point. The main entrance of the villa leads to an impressive living room with towering ceilings and wall to wall windows. To the left of this is a large kitchen as well as an eat-in lounge. There is also a formal library. To the right

Impressive villa with stunning sea view

Ref No: SLU062 Property Type: Villa Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3.5 Price: USD $1,190,000

ttyPhoto

of the main entrance there are two master bedroom suites, each with its own spacious en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. There is a powder room. The lower level of the house contains a guest bedroom that has a private bathroom and access to the patio. In the basement at the property is a large storage area. One of the focal points of the house is the pool, which is accessed via a grand double staircase leading down from the living room. The house

has some wear and tear and requires cosmetic updating. However, this property has vast potential and is truly a home that elicits love at first sight! Get in touch: Tropical Connections Limited, Weatherill House, New South Quarter, 23 Whitestone Way, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 4WF, England Telephone: 0845 222 1413 Mobile: 07506 354 902 Fax: 020 8686 6125 Email: info@tropicalconnections.co.uk Web: www.tropicalconnections.co.uk

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APRIL 2015

Life

Living

PROTEIN

By Patrick Lewis - . YOUR FITNESS GURU

e hope last months health tips were helpful, so here are more health tips to help you with your exercise routine for EASTER. We all want to be fit, lose weight and look good so lets put these tips to action and look forward to being much healthier. So Go forward and be healthy!

HEALTH:

Proteins are the basic building blocks of the human body. When you eat foods that contain protein, your digestive system breaks them down into basic units called amino acids. These amino acids are then re-used to make the proteins needed to maintain your hair, skin, nails, muscles, bones, blood and internal organs. So you really are what you eat!

EXERCISE:

High-intensity workouts are a form of stress, which triggers muscle breakdown and makes you feel tired and sore. They also deplete critical amino acids such as glutamine, valine, isoleucine and leucine. It’s only after you’ve completed exercise that your muscle tissues begin the rebuilding process, so it’s important to replenish lost nutrients to help the body recover.

NUTRITION:

The ideal post-workout meal or snack should contain a combination of protein for growth and repair, plus carbohydrates to restore depleted glycogen stores. 32

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Try the following suggestions: • Nut butter (almond, cashew or hazelnut) spread on rice cakes or Ryvita • Scrambled eggs or reduced salt baked beans on whole meal toast • Hummous and mixed salad in a whole meal pitta • Chicken or tuna salad with sliced avocado and hard boiled eggs

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APRIL 2015

CULTURE

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Culture

Celebrating Nigeria’s new President

“Thank You, Nigeria’s Youths”

This is your victory.

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

You have chosen to vote for a Nigeria that sees you as not a Northerner or a Southerner, not as a Christian or a Muslim but as a Nigerian. You have chosen to vote for a departure from a nation that was decaying, that did not give you hope and pride.

A Message from GMB

April 1, 2015 by gmbbuhari in Blog, Press Release. http://thisisbuhari.com/thank-younigerias-youths-a-message-from-gmb/

oday, more than 54 years after we got our independence and 16 years since our return to democracy, the walk to true change has started. We have toiled, sweated and worked hard for this victory. We refused to give up because the work of building the Nigeria of our dreams is not to be taken for granted. It is out of our love for this country and the belief in what it can be that we went across the length and breadth of Nigeria and sacrificed so much for this victory.

You have chosen to vote for change and we promise you that we will not be disappointed. We know that your hopes are high: a country that is safe and peaceful, a country that is without corruption, a country that produces jobs for you, a country that gives you the environment for your business to thrive. I promise you that the APC government led by me will deliver these to you. We will ensure that we meet and exceed your aspirations. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0dZM8-EVP-s This government is your government and every decision we shall take shall be to give you a positive future.

YOUTUBE FOOTAGE - Nigeria Celebrates Muhammadu Buhari Election Victory Over Goodluck Jonathan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD1KrgncNC0

I want to thank young Nigerians especially for this victory. You have been with us from the very beginning. Many of you left your jobs to work for the campaign, contributed your money and your time, volunteered in your areas and brought the innovation and energy that comes with youthfulness to bear on the outcome.

We shall also run a country that will listen to you, engage with you and take corrections from you. This is because the task of building the Nigeria of our dreams cannot be done by us alone. We need you too. We need you to support us and we also need you to admonish us when we make missteps. This shall be a government for all Nigerians and we shall listen to everyone. We thank you once again for your support and we look forward to a great future together. God bless you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Culture

Celebrating Nigeria’s new President

BRIEF PRESS STATEMENT BY GENERAL MUHAMMADU BUHARI, GCFR, PREDISENTELECT ON THE PLATFORM OF THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC), MARCH 31ST, 2015

Nigeria’s future can be better than what it is today. https://twitter.com/gmbvolunteers

At exactly 5:15pm yesterday evening President Jonathan called to congratulate me on my victory. For this I want all Nigerians to join me in congratulating and appreciating Mr President for his statesmanship.

INEC has released the official results of the Presidential election. INEC has declared that I gained the most votes with the required spread and thus won this election. In a more profound way, it is you, Nigerians that have won. The people have shown their love for our nation and their belief in democracy.

Nigeria’s new leader praises rival

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yMz7aO9aPM

President Jonathan engaged in a spirited campaign and was a worthy opponent. I extend my hand of fellowship to him. I look forward to meeting him soon as we plan the transition from one administration to another. He will receive nothing but understanding, cooperation and respect from me and my team. The good people of Nigeria, answered the call of history. When the account of this fine moment is written, it will be said that it was the people themselves who led this nation to democracy. You stood in line patiently for hours in the sun, rain and then in the dark to cast your ballots. Even when the vote was extended to Sunday in some places, you still performed your civic duty. You did so peacefully. You voted with your heart. Your vote affirms that you believe 36

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

You voted for change and now change has come.

The declaration of INEC accurately reflects the will of the people. While there might have been some logistical obstacles and irregularities associated with the exercise, the result shall stand as what the people want. I thank all Nigerians who have made this day possible. Our country has now joined the community of nations that have used the ballot box to peacefully change an incumbent President in a free and fair election. To me this is indeed historic. Most people will welcome the result because it is the one they voted for. Others will naturally be disappointed. I ask that we all be circumspect, respectful and peaceful in these times. This was a hard- fought contest. Emotions were high. We must not allow them to get the better of us. This is not the time for confrontation. This is a moment that we must begin to heal the wounds and work toward a better future. We do this first by extending a hand of friendship and conciliation across the political divide. We hope and pray our friends in other parties reciprocate.

We have put one party state behind us. You have voted for a party and president that will serve and govern but never rule over you. Change has come. A new day and a new Nigeria are upon us. The victory is yours and the glory is that of our nation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nigeria I will make a more formal address to the nation today after receiving the certificate of return from INEC. May God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Muhammadu Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook profile: https://

www.facebook.com/votebuhari

I thank all the members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for their commitment and their hard work through the formation of the party, the campaigns and the Presidential elections. Let me equally extend my appreciation to the MEDIA, Civil Society and the Security agencies for their selfless service.

General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, President-Elect, Federal Republic of Nigeria http://www.thisisbuhari.com/

The International press and our friends abroad deserve special commendation for their support throughout the process. We promise a robust and dynamic engagement with your countries in matters of mutual interest to nations. In the interim, I call on all Nigerians to be law abiding and peaceful. The eyes of the world were focused on us to see if we could vote in a peaceful way and carry out a representative election in an orderly manner. You have proven to the world that we are a people who have embraced democracy and a people who seek a of government by, for and of the people. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=tnNf6GDNptw

Gen Muhammadu Buhari. Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Culture

Celebrating Ghana’s 58th Independence

Thanksgiving service for Ghana’s 58th Independence celebration

veryone turned came to the Living Word Temple to the Thanks Giving Service held by Archbishop Dr John Owusu-Ansah the General Overseer for Ghana @ 58 I went with my family, you will be able to see the winner of the Lebara Mobile prize drew for £100 Like I always say it cost nothing to remember others. www.livingwordtemple.org Please feel free to connect with them on • Facebook: - https://www.facebook.com/ livingword.temple?ref=nm • Twitter: - https://twitter.com/ livingwordtempl

The Programme for the day was: • • • • • • • • • • •

Call to Worship – By Rev Agyemang Praise & Worship – By The Living Praise Welcome Address - By Rev Agyemang Sponsors Remarks – By Lekan Olujinmi, The Klub International & Viviane Adjado, Lebara Mobile Brief History Of Ghana – From 1957 till 2015 By Rev Agyemang Lucky Dip Draw – By Archbishop Dr John Owusu-Ansah Prize Presentation - By Lekan Olujinmi & Viviane Adjado Ministration Song – Living Praise Introduction of Preacher - By Rev Agyemang Ghana National Anthem - https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=Y5GVnKMLV4U Prayer For All Ghanains - By Archbishop Dr John Owusu-Ansah APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

• Preaching - By Archbishop Dr John OwusuAnsah • Tithes & Offering – Living Praise • Announcement - By Rev Agyemang • Vote of Thanks – Stephen Jiri • Closing Prayer - By Rev Agyemang

About International Ministries for the Living Word Greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We are privileged to have you visit International Ministries for the Living Word (World Wide) Website and pray that you will experience God’s divine presence in a very unique way. International Ministries for the Living Word is a non denominational and non profitable organisation registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales since 1994 with registration number 1038650. International Ministries for the Living Word is being governed by the General Overseer Archbishop. Dr. John Owusu-Ansah with a board of trustees and a biblical based constitution. Our service is designed to express our love to God. We at International Ministries for the Living Word function as a diverse New Testament Church ministers extensively and uncompromisingly to all men irrespectively: we are purposed divine Ministry actively in Discipleship, training, church planting, networking, orphanage and social help. www. livingwordtemple.org

Ghana National Anthem

Lekan Olujinmi with Lucky Winner Miss Fiona Karugaba and Viviane Adjado Marketing Events Executive for Lebara Mobile

Sponsor - Lebara Mobileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s display table

Sponsor in attendance - Lebara Mobile

God bless our homeland Ghana, And make our nation great and strong, Bold to defend forever The cause of Freedom and of Right. Fill our hearts with true humility Make us cherish fearless honesty, And help us to resist oppressorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rule With all our will and might forevermore.2x Hail to thy name, O Ghana To thee we make our solemn vow; Steadfast to build together A nation strong in Unity; With our gifts of mind and strength of arm, Whether night or day, in the midst of storm, In every need whatever the call may be, To serve thee, Ghana, now and evermore. Raise high the flag of Ghana, And one with Africa advance; Black star of hope and honor, To all who thirst for liberty; Where the banner of Ghana free flies, May the way to freedom truly lie Arise, arise, O sons of Ghana land, And under God march on forevermore. Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Culture

Celebrating Ghana’s 58th Independence

In c par e-M will • 1 • 1 • 1 • L • 1 • 1

H c

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APRIL 2015

HAPPY EASTER from everyone at:

PANACHE f

Occasions

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No 1 lifestyle portal for the Caribbean and African Communi Event Specialists and publishers of Panache E-Magazine.

www.panacheoccasions.com

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ity.

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APRIL 2015

FLAIR Pageants Style Fashion Beauty Hair Grooming

Get ready for Miss Barbados UK Saturday 25th April 2015

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Flair

Beauty

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APRIL 2015

Beauty

Flair

Karlton Chambers

Hotshots Model of the Month

Siam Antoinette of exposure and found myself taking part in more fashion shows and shoots. As well as modelling I still find time to work towards positive revolution. During the week I work as a Community Link Worker for the West London Zone. As a Community Link Worker I support youth organisations in West London to build partnerships in order to work in unison to provide better services for the young people in their community. Although modelling is not a career that I chase, I see this as an opportunity for me to get exposure. To become a role model that can inspire everyone that I meet.

Agent of Change

ince leaving home at the age of sixteen and not having anyone to turn to for support but my local youth club, inspired me to work with young people to motivate positive change and drive a productive Revolution. I have spent many years working within the community, enlightening people of the power each individual has when they work with likeminded people. Six months ago I was exposed to a new lifestyle. "The fashion Industry". I would say modelling found me, as fashion is something that I had never really bothered about before but there I was taking part in a production as part of London Fashion week. I received a lot

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Siam Antoinette

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APRIL 2015

Flair

Beauty

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Beauty

dress designed by Kiran creations

Flair

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Costume Collection Launch Saturday 11th April, 2015 Doors open at 3.00pm, starts at 4.00pm. Hoxton Arches, Arch 402 Gallery, Cremer Street E2 8HD Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Flair

Beauty

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

FIRST ANNUAL MISS BARBADOS UK It has been a long time coming, but it is finally here. The first annual Miss Barbados UK pageant is set to take place on Saturday 25th April 2015 at the legendary Bush Hall, West London. Cinco Amor Ltd, the franchise holders have opened up a nationwide search for young girls who think they’ve got what it takes to be crowned. “There is a huge gap in the market for a pageant like this here in the United Kingdom and we believe that we are able to create opportunities for young women with Barbadian heritage to not only learn about their roots, but to inspire others also” Shakira Hamblin, Director, Cinco Amor Ltd. The mission of Miss Barbados UK is to raise awareness of Barbadian history and culture within the United Kingdom, connecting with the diaspora. Each delegate will participate in a three month intensive training and educational programme which will not only prepare the winning delegate for her journey as Miss Barbados UK but also as the ambassador of the brand. Brains and beauty, a phrase we are all familiar with is something that will truly be portrayed at the first annual Miss Barbados UK pageant. For more information please contact Louise Sterling-Jackman of Desire&Aspire PR, info@desireandaspire.com [press enquires only]. For general enquires about the event and applications please contact Shakira Hamblin of Cinco Amor Ltd info@cincoamor.com

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APRIL 2015

ACHIEVE

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Achieve Celebrating Achievements

A2ndvoice – AWARD WINNER RECOGNITION COMMUNITY AWARD OF THE YEAR

outh London mother of 3, Venessa Bobb founder of A2ndvoice, won the Recognition Community Award of the Year, organised by Include Me TOO Executive Director Parmi Dheensa on Saturday 28th March 2015. It was the first ever National Community Inspiration Awards for Disabled Children, Young People and their Families, which was held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

Include Me TOO’s activities have increased involvement, participation and representation of BAME disabled children and their families and other marginalised communities locally and nationally on decisions which impact on their lives. Over the years Include Me TOO have been consistent in working effectively at local, regional and national levels including at grassroots and strategic level with a range of organisations and communities.

Venessa quoted “I nominated Alis Rowe, Author and Social Entrepreneur for The Curly Hair Project and received an email congratulating me that I had been nominated for two awards, Mother of the Year and the Recognition Community Awards of the Year, I was speechless”

Venessa Bobb worked for a well-known Broadcast TV Station for several years in the Technical Department as a Technical Technician; she put her career on hold in 2005 to raise her young family, and also was a freelance videographer.

Actress Nina Wadia from ‘Eastenders’ and actor Winston Ellis hosted this prestigious event. The evening celebrated the finalist’s abilities, personal journeys and individual achievements, providing an evening full of community spirit and inspiration from a diverse audience. Include Me TOO is a national charity supporting disabled children, young people and their families from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) and other marginalised community backgrounds. Include Me TOO supports and promotes social justice, equality and rights for all disabled children and young people. They provide a range of support including peer support, befriending services, activities and holiday clubs for disabled children, also outreach, information and advice to families.

Unknown to her, she was later to find that her middle child, Nathaniel, now 12, was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD in April 2008, this made her realise the lack of understanding, myths and taboo around Autism and Aspergers amongst her family, friends and society on a whole. She also has two daughters Louise 14 and Michaela 9.

Venessa with her son Nathaniel Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Achieve

Celebrating Achievements

On the 18th May 2012, A2ndvoice a nonfor-profit organisation was formed based in Tooting, South-West London in meeting the needs of the local communities through cultural diversity in providing a service for parents and carers with children to adults on the Autistic Spectrum. Venessa has created a large network of professionals and parents who now work together through workshops, networking events and training with other Autistic Organisations across UK.

A2ndVoice logo

Her own experience seeking additional support for her son has been frustrating, due to what others see as normal and quick to blaming bad parenting. Following four successful tribunal appeals between 2009 and 2011, seeking for the right educational support for her son. She has seen how much parents, professionals and society overlook the negative impact to how others stereotype the Autism Spectrum Disorder. 68

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Venessa quoted “There is a lack of support and understanding amongst Faith Groups and the Criminal Justice System. Also the BAME Communities face many challenges due to taboo and cultural differences, Autism does not just affect the ASD individual, but the entire family as life does change”. Her drive in wanting to make a difference for the ‘silent voices’ and the unheard stories, has attracted many other individuals and families from other communities looking for advice and help, who felt they were being misunderstood. This included those from the Asian, African, Caribbean, Polish, Spanish, Italian, French, Somali and Muslim Communities.

Mark Brown from Special Help for Special Needs teaching Nathaniel about puberty, relationships & social skills. (SH4SN)

A2ndvoice run workshops, which are facilitated by specialists who care, work or live with those with ASD. Mark Brown from Special Help for Special Needs (SH4SN) focuses on Puberty, Relationships, Social Skills for all Ages, Transition into Adulthood, Challenging and Inappropriate Sexualised

Behaviour and Obsession and Anxiety. Stefan Michaelis from Sensory Activation Solutions (SAS) deals with Sensory Processing Influences behaviour, learning and emotions. Various other speakers cover topics on Girls/ Women on the Spectrum, Sleep and Toilet issues and much more. More workshops are needed for Autistic Adults and Couples. On the 26th May 2012, Venessa wrote to the Kenneth Clarke MP who was Minister of Justice at the time with her concerns about Autism in the Prison Services in regards to Black youths and gang culture. She received a response in July 2012 from the Department of Health who confirmed that more screening and support was needed, but the response in her opinion was inadequate to what she was requesting. Two years later she was invited to speak at the Educational Psychologist Special Interest Group of Autism (EPSIG) held at the Institute of Education, Russell Square organised by Dr. Laura Cockburn, Specialist Consultant Chartered Psychologist from the National Autistic Society and Specialist Consultant Chartered Psychologist Ken Greaves. Venessa feels that society does not understand and see the bigger picture of those living with Autism. Autistic children do become autistic adults and many that grow up without the relevant support, some may experience many other challenges and difficulties in later life. Getting a late diagnosis for many autistic adults is a relief for some, but there is still a distinct lack of support for Autistic Adults. The government need to realise how much Autistic Adults are being failed by the system. On the 15th July 2014 the National Autistic Society held the launch of the BAME Publication â&#x20AC;&#x153;Diversity Perspectiveâ&#x20AC;? which

was held at the Houses of Commons for the All Party Parliamentary Group on Autism (APPGA) AGM. Venessa was invited to speak on the panel as a mother raising a black child on the spectrum with Tom Madders, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the National Autistic Society, Baroness Pola Uddin, Ken Greaves, Laura Cockburn. The publication can be found on the A2ndvoice website or the All Party Parliamentary Group on Autism. Later this year A2ndvoice will be working in partnership with other organisations to tackle and highlight the issues around Autism amongst Faith Groups and the Criminal Justice System following numerous calls from concerned parents needing advice for their sons who have been arrested, charged and given a custodial sentence without any proper representation or those who have been Stop and Searched and the Police not aware of or taken in consideration that the youth maybe on the spectrum. This does not excuse when a crime has been committed, that it should be ignored, but to look at what support and intervention was put in place to prevent the ASD individual being put in that situation in the first place. Venessa works tirelessly in raising awareness, bridging the gap, connecting parents and professionals in supporting individuals and families within the community, especially for those with children and adults with ASD and special needs. She has recently been appointed to the role of Chair of NAS Lambeth Branch from April 2015. Venessa hopes to continue her work within the Autistic Community in bringing this much-needed awareness to the forefront of government agenda that NAS also campaigning for. Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

Achieve

Celebrating Achievements

FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTISM & ASPERGERS • Research has shown that this is worldwide and not just affecting those within the UK. • There are 1 in 100 people diagnosed with Autism, with 1 in 4 boys being autistic. • There is confusion between identifying unruly bad behaviour and a behavioural condition such as autism and aspergers within all communities, but media don’t identify, if the research includes behavioural conditions, such as autism and aspergers. Most times, it is in a negative light. • In particular, especially black boys and men are being misdiagnosed and wrongly being given custodial sentences without ever knowing that they had autism or any other related conditions.

Venessa with the Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr Angela Graham (2013 - 2014)

• Many professionals overlook the condition and cause unnecessary distress to many families by not listening to the concerned parent or carer. There are some parents who will not accept the diagnosis, but for the majority who go undiagnosed, this can lead to mental illnesses and get lost in the system. • Many individuals and families from the BAME communities in the UK raising children and adults on the Autistic Spectrum face double or triple discrimination, due to cultural differences, language barriers, religion, tradition, prejudice, stereotypes and racism. 70

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

Venessa with the Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr Stuart Thom (2014 - 2015)

Venessa with CEO - Steven Michaelis - Sensory Activation Solutions (SAS)

The Autism Show, Excel 2014 A2ndvoice Volunteers, Mark Brown (SH4SN), Steven Michaelis & Nicole Zimbler (SAS)

Venessa Bobb A2ndvoice – Founder Cultural Diversity & the BAME Communities

Autism, Women & BAME Seminar Stratford 2014

Mob: +44 (0) 7964 173 958 Email: a2ndvoice@gmail.com Website: http://a2ndvoice.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/ A2ndVoice Blog: http://a2ndvoicedotorg. wordpress.com/tag/a2ndvoice Facebook: A2ndVoice Skype: a2ndvoice

Executive Director’s - Include Me TOO Parmi Dheensa & Venessa Bobb

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APRIL 2015

Achieve

Celebrating Achievements

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

PILY MIRAZI

is nominated under 2 categories for the South African Business Awards 2015 organised by the South African Chamber Of Commerce. VOTING WILL END SOON SO PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTES ASAP! Please cast your votes by clicking the link below and then clicking on PILY MIRAZI Businesswoman Of The Year http://www.southafricanchamber.co.uk/chamberawards/nominees/woman-in-business-of-theyear#2258346 Entrepreneur Of The Year http://www.southafricanchamber.co.uk/chamberawards/nominees/entrepreneur-of-the-year Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

APRIL 2015

PLEASURE

View our fantastic range of discounted perfumes and purchase your favourite fragrance 74

APRIL 2015 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

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Shopping

Gold Trimmed Pink Rose The Gold trimmed 12 inch rose was freshly picked then preserved in 24ct. gold - Never die roses mean exactly that, they will never die. This rose is prepared using advanced goldplating techniques. Each rose comes complete in a gift wrap packaged window box and outer box to protect during transit. Complete with a certificate of authenticity from James Caan and Laban Roomes. Eternal lasting gift symbolising love and friendship. Lifetime Guarantee

ÂŁ136.66 exc. VAT

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APRIL 2015

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Illustrations

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lougawou, Po Mounâ&#x20AC;? the story interpreted to mean in Engli strictly in relation to the sorcerers and female canines fe

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ish, “Witches & Bitches” …a deliberately provocative title but eatured in the story… thus a legitimate use of the words…

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APRIL 2015

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Horoscope

Horoscope for APRIL 2015

t wouldn’t be a good idea to drop your guard in April, when the aftermath of the storm will persist in keeping up the pressure over our heads and accentuating social and economic tension (especially at the beginning of the month), with a risk of offensives (or aggression) being launched on a national scale, but this can’t be ruled out outside our borders either! It will be a situation that will sorely try our patience, but it should eventually put us on the right track for changing our behaviour patterns and eliminating or reinventing things, so we can push ahead without sacrificing any of our precious achievements! It will be a challenge between making progress towards awareness and preserving respect for our most cherished values, come hell or high water! Read more: http://www.free-horoscope.com/horoscopes/monthly/ march-2015/#ixzz3SUU5WQmL If you wish to have a look at your Horoscope for March 2015. You also can search for a particular horoscope with your new monthly horoscope archive since April 2013. If you do not know your astrological sign, use our application “What is my sign?” by entering your date of birth. Read more: http://www.free-horoscope.com/ horoscopes/monthly/march-2015/

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Jokes

JOKES KNOW ANY FUNNY JOKES? email us at: info@panacheoccasions.com

A farmer counted 196 cows in  the field. But when he rounded them up, he had 200. ==== ==== ==== ==== My father was completely lost in the kitchen and never ate unless someone prepared a meal for him. When Mother was ill, however, he volunteered to go to the supermarket for her. She sent him off with a carefully numbered list of seven items. Dad returned shortly, very proud of himself, and proceeded to unpack the grocery bags. He had one bag of sugar, two dozen eggs, three yams, four boxes of soap, five boxes of crackers, six cabbages, and seven green peppers. ==== ==== ==== ==== Jack: “Every time I see you I remember Danny.” Sam: “I don’t look like he, no way. Why you got to remember that bum?” Jack: “He too owe me money.”

READING AND WRITING They were booking in Nedd at the prison in Barbados. Prison Officer: “Can you read and write?” Nedd: “I can write, not read.” Prison Officer (pausing): “Write your name here, then.” The prisoner made a scrawl the prison officer could not make out. Prison Officer: “What’s that?” Nedd: “I don’t know.” Prison Officer: “What do you mean you don’t know?” Nedd: “Officer I told you I can write, but I can’t read.”

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APRIL 2015

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Fun, Games & Shopping

WE B S U D O K U

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Panache Fragrance Store

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The “Panache Fragrance” discounted store has just so many scents to choose f or are looking for the perfect gift. We have selection of the biggest names in all the great deals we have on our fragrances. The tough choice of which one by PayPal. We ship the orders directly to your door, estimated shipping time

Paco Rabanne Black XS EDT for Women (80 ml./2.7 oz.) Availability: In stock

Carolina Herrera 212 Sexy EDP for Women (100 ml.) Availability: In stock

APRIL 2015 £39.94 / Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com

£48.06

Chanel Chance Ea EDT Spray (10 Availability: In

£91.74

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from with our fantastic range of perfumes. Whether you are looking for yourself women’s’ fragrances that she is sure to love. You will be spoilt for choice with to have is up to you! NB: Your payment for this purchase is processed securely frame is 7-14 business days worldwide.

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Christian Dior Miss Dior EDP (100 ml./3.4 oz.) Availability: In stock

£93.62

Dior Christian Dior Poison EDT for Women (100 ml./3.4 oz.) Availability: In stock

£93.62 Visit: www.panacheoccasions.com / APRIL 2015

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